Six years ago when California Lanes/Robbie D's Owner Rob Rimel took over California Lanes, he came in with experience working at the bowling alley in Tipton. For over 20 years, Rimel also had plenty of mechanical experience working on cars at local dealerships. Great support from the community has meant a lot as Rimel has adjusted to owning the bowling alley and setting up Robbie D's, a bar and grill connected to the alley.
"We have great people in here almost on a daily basis," Rimel said. "We still have a lot of the same bowlers. We have also picked up new bowlers. Three years ago we added the bar and grill and it has been super. People stop in there daily too. They just stop in for a few hours and enjoy the really good food we prepare. We have hand pattied burgers, catfish we bread ourself, shrimp, prime rib, hot wings, frog legs, homemade fries and many other food items."
California Lanes includes the 10 original wood lanes which have been there for 50 years. Rimel said they are still in good shape and go through a good inspection every year as part of USBC certification. They also have a pro shop which sells bowling balls and accessories and Rimel even fixes the bowling ball drilling and filling previous holes along with making new custom holes. Rimel said they have leagues for women, men and mixed team which bowl in the winter starting in August and running through May.
For more of this story check out the June 6 issue of the California Democrat.