Holiday Bowl-a-Thon Big Success!

December 3, 2005

More than 80 Chatham County youth enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon of non-stop bowling at Sportsman Lanes December 3 during Chatham County Together’s! first annual bowl-a-thon.
The event, which raised more than $2,400 in donations, provided youth, volunteers, mentors, staff and parents an opportunity to get to know each other and partake in a few hours of physical activity, said CCT! director Kim Caraganis.

Most youth and parents agreed that the bowl-a-thon, which replaced CCT!’s annual Christmas party at the Council on Aging, was a better choice between the two.

“I’d rather be bowling,” said 10-year-old Kendrick. “You can win lots of prizes.”

“This is definitely a better idea than the usual Christmas party,” said Allison, a parent whose 13-year-old son Robert has been involved with CCT! for six years. “A lot of these kids have high energy issues,” she continued, “and this gives them an opportunity to channel their energy.”

Ann, who has been a mentor/tutor in CCT!’s after school program for five years, attended the bowl-a-thon with her 10-year-old youth Curtis.

“This [bowling] is better for the kids,” Ann said. “I’ve heard a lot of people say that they haven’t had such a wonderful time in a long time.”

Co-owner/operators of Sportsman Lanes, Jeff and Terri Moses, closed the bowling alley during business hours, opening it only to CCT! December 3.

“Every lane is packed,” Jeff Moses said. “The kids are having more fun than they’ve had in a while because we don’t have to have strict adult supervision.”

The bowl-a-thon provided an ample opportunity for CCT! youth to learn sportsmanship and etiquette, according to Ann.

“With bumpers every child is a success,” she said.