Bowl-a-thon crowd raises awareness and funds for ARCA

Tenpins & More was bursting at the seams with people throughout the day June 1, and it wasn't because summer break was under way.

Actually, ARCA Opening Doors was having its annual Bowl-A-Thon. Event coordinator Bob Scanlon says this event has been going on for nearly 15 years with a break during COVID. The idea came from him and Tenpins owner Steve Mackie.

"The original idea was fun for the families, awareness for ARCA in the world of nonprofits who are trying to get help and support, and finally, well, let's raise some dollars if we can. Well clearly this has been going on for 13, 14 years and you can see how the families have grown," Scanlon said.

Pat Kominiiak has a son who has been a part of the ARCA program since the start.

"I've been with ARCA since 1970 and my son received services, but I'm also a bowler and I bowl here on league. So when Steve and Bob put this together, it was like a godsend that we never ever thought it would turn into what it has turned into," she said.

Part of the joyous event is the "Mayors on Strike" competition that Mayor Gregg Hull started. Mayors from around the state are invited to compete for the first strike. This year, Farmington's Mayor Nate Duckett won the trophy. He will be required to bring the trophy back next year so the next winning mayor can claim their prize.

"We've been supporting ARCA through Mayor's on Strike for nine years now. They've had a special place in our hearts since before I took office, and being involved in this particular fundraiser and event has just been a real joy and a blessing for me and the staff to help us improve the lives of people, so we're very excited about that," Hull said.

Throughout the event, people could be heard getting excited about their first strike, getting upset about gutter balls and cheering their friends on.

The teams playing in the first round were visited by the familiar face of Louie the Lobo, who was happy to get players excited.

Mackie says 82 people bowled the first of three sessions and that the second group had even more.

"Ended with 246 bowlers while feeding about 400 people. Generous corporate sponsors and hundreds of donors, along with a successful silent auction raised over $100,000. Thank you to all who volunteered for a joyous and happy day," he said.