History

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History

CJ's Willow Bowling Center has been family owned and operated for 59 years. Pat & Mike Rayburn, the son's of Charlie & Jean Rayburn, now own and operate CJ's Willow Bowling Center.

The grand opening of Willow Lanes occurred November 6, 1955. Back then, Willow was a 12 lane bowling center with billiard tables filling the remaining space. The facility was closed from July 2, 1980 through September 7, 1980 after more than a foot of water inundated the building. As a result, all new lanes and scoring systems were installed. During the late 1980's and early 1990's, the exterior of the building received a major facelift. The parking lot was expanded, a new street sign was installed, and a new entry into the building was constructed. To coincide with the improvements, a name change was in order, as Willow Lanes became Willow Bowling Center.

In 2000, CJ's Restaurant & Party Rooms were added to the front of the building, enabling the facility to host birthday parties, corporate events, and to launch a weekday lunch buffet. In 2008, the bowler's area floor was raised and the steps were replaced with ramps making all 16 lanes handicap accessible. The metal benches were replaced with black leather and suede couches creating the unique, homelike feeling guests enjoy today.
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