Parkside Lanes Celebrates 70th Anniversary

Parkside Lanes in Aurora marked a remarkable milestone recently, celebrating its 70th year in business. Situated at Route 30 and Montgomery Road, the bowling alley is now managed by Kurt Frieders, a fourth-generation general manager and proprietor. The staff planned significant renovations and a festive anniversary event, recognizing the importance of this achievement years ago.

During the celebration, Joey Becker of Aurora shared his long-standing connection to Parkside Lanes. Having frequented the venue for over 20 years, he expressed that its longevity stems from its genuine and welcoming atmosphere, akin to a mom-and-pop establishment. Becker praised the friendly environment and staff, emphasizing the sense of home the alley provides.

The anniversary festivities featured a special theme, offering hot dogs, soft drinks, and bowling lines at 70 cents each. Dylan Melgosa from Aurora also participated in the weekend’s celebrations, attributing his ten-year patronage to familial ties and the fun, inviting atmosphere fostered by league bowling.

Among the most loyal attendees was Ramon Rodriguez, who has visited the alley for 60 years since his father introduced him at the age of 5. Rodriguez praised the welcoming employees and the availability of bowling around the clock. Having bowled many perfect games, he continues to enjoy the sport and camaraderie Parkside Lanes offers.

Kurt Frieders highlighted the robust state of the bowling industry, acknowledging the pandemic’s challenges but noting the venue’s thriving status post-COVID. He expressed gratitude for the increasing customer base, currently averaging over 800 daily visitors and nearing 6,000 weekly guests.

Parkside Lanes has undergone various changes throughout its history, notably the transition to automatic scoring in 1989, becoming the first in the Fox Valley area to adopt this innovation. Frieders reflected on this change, which simplified the scoring process for new generations of bowlers.

Another advancement Frieders discussed was the introduction of bumpers, a feature preventing balls from going into the gutter. This enhancement has supported a new wave of young bowlers, allowing them to achieve strikes and spares rather than enduring constant gutter ball frustrations.

With 70 years of operation under its belt, Frieders is optimistic about Parkside Lanes’ future. He proudly recounted how his great-grandfather founded the establishment in 1956, highlighting the enduring family-run nature of the business. The commitment to maintaining a strong, dedicated workforce is evident through longtime employees like Stephanie Bonczyk, who has served for nearly five decades.