The Bremerton Strike Zone bowling alley on Naval Base Kitsap held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Jan. 27. The event was the culmination of weeks of renovations to the Strike Zone, which is now officially open for business again.

“It was in desperate need of a facelift,” said Joe Rush, business activities manager, bowling and theater, NBK. The renovations spanned the holiday period, with volunteers from multiple regional commands doing the work, sometimes until 3 a.m. 

From a paint job that used to be a greenish, teal color that is now an all American red, white and blue, to a bar with three televisions, the Strike Zone is now also a more “family friendly environment,” according to NBK Command Master Chief (SW) Jim Rickel. 

Other changes to the bowling alley include the front desk being moved back to make it more accessible for patrons. There are 24 newly slicked lanes, new carpet, new tiles, four billiards tables in the bar, a plethora of bar stools and tables, and a 42-inch television in the newly renovated bar and lounge area. 

The goal for the re-opening of the Strike Zone was the USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) arrival to Naval Base Kitsap. That goal was reached when the Strike Zone opened up just in time for New Year’s Eve. 

“This is definitely something that doesn’t happen everyday,” said Andy Murphy, regional food, business and entertainment program director. Also on hand for the event was Capt. T.J. Dargan, deputy commanding officer, NBK, along with Colleen Shorrock. Shorrock has been bowling in Bremerton for 39 consecutive years. For someone who has bowled in the same place since 1966, she said she is very excited about the changes to the environment. 

“Its much more enticing now,” said Shorrock. “I love the new colors. I’ll always come here.”