League time on the lanes

Editor's note: Lane Lafler is a director with the Cedar Rapids USBC Bowling Association Board.

By Lane Lafler, community contributor

Summer is almost over, it's about time to go back to school and the bowling season is upon us once again.

It was a crazy and fun year The 2013-2014 season was a crazy and fun year with records falling and an important vote to merge the men's and women's associations into one - it passed overwhelmingly and will take affect in the 2015-2016 season. The youth programs decided not to join the merger at this time.

This merger will be great for our associations and the only change will be the association tournament will be held together - like it was last season.

Most leagues begin play in mid-August or September. Get specifics at your local bowling centers, including Cedar Rapids Bowling Center, Lancer Lanes, May City Bowl and Westdale Bowling Center in Cedar Rapids, Berry's in Vinton, Don-Mar in Mount Vernon, Lucky Six in Marengo and Turner Lanes in Keystone.

Bowling is a sport for all ages and skill levels. There are leagues for children, women, men and mixed and most are signing up bowlers now.

If you need some tips or help getting to the next level, there are certified coaches at every location. If you need new equipment (balls, bags, shoes or other items) or just need to make that old bowling ball fell new again, visit your local pro shop.

Come on out and have ball whether you're in it for fun or to take it serious. Where else can you meet up with friends, exercise or just get away from it all for a few hours per?