Allstar Lanes gets new owner
In 1955, permits were issued for All Star Lanes in North Fort Myers. The 55-year-old local landmark now has a new owner, Bill Hanson.
Hanson has been in the “bowling game” for 25 years.
“I bought my first bowling center when I was 24 years old in California,” he said. “It was a little, 12-lane center near Humboldt.”
From there he owned and operated many centers throughout the country, including New England.
“Then I didn’t want to shovel snow anymore,” Hanson said.
He eventually landed in the Fort Myers area, working with the owner of Bowland Centers of Florida.
“I was the director of operations for the group, but I always liked this center,” he said. “I wasn’t planning on it, but when my boss Pat Ciniello asked if I’d be interested in purchasing this site, I said I’d be more than interested.”
Of all the centers he visited, Hanson felt the North Fort Myers center, which he worked with for 10 years, was his favorite.
“I like the people, I like the neighborhood, and I always felt an attachment to it,” he said.
He likes to be a working owner, always at the lanes.
“I haven’t had a day off since I bought it,” he said.
Future improvements are planned.
“We’re going to try to modernize equipment and the appearance of the center,” Hanson said.
The interior and exterior.
“It’s going to take a little time, but the alley has been here since 1956,” he said.
He is looking forward to getting to know all his patrons, many who he has met during his tenure in handling the lanes for the corporation.
“I know most of the evening bowlers but am meeting more and more – we’re just getting acquainted,” Hanson said.
He also is looking forward to meeting seasonal guests who are now coming in.
“The fall is always our busiest time, when daylight-saving time starts,” Hanson said. “It starts getting darker earlier and people want something to do.”
Retaining key staff members is a priority for Hanson.
“They were my employees before they were my employees,” he said.
They are Program Director Sally Gartner, Manager Michele Tenalio and Food and Beverage Manager Sue Higgins.
In his spare time, he likes to golf.
“And bowl,” Hanson said.
All Star Lanes is at 2818 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers Hours are 9 a.m.-midnight weekdays and until 2 a.m. weekends. For information, call 995-2138.