Interview with Patrice Kondrotis, manager
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: I was bowling on a league here and they needed help, so I started working a couple nights a week. Nine years later, I’m still here, working full time as manager.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: We like to think of ourselves as the “Cheers” of bowling alleys. We really do try to know everybody’s name. We can’t compete size-wise with the big corporate bowling alleys, but we can give you something they can’t — an affordable, friendly place with great food, reasonable drink prices and inexpensive bowling, and employees that are really happy to see you come in.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: I’m a people person, so I really like seeing all my customers, most of whom have become friends. I also like the challenge of making sure everything runs smoothly, and that my staff is taking care of our customers.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Summers in Colorado. People who live in Colorado do not spend their summers inside, so it’s always a challenge to get through the summer financially.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: Just finding us. We’re tucked below Gold’s Corner Grocery, and a lot of people say, “I’ve driven by you a thousand times and I never knew there was a bowling alley here.” Also, we still have above-ground ball returns that you don’t see in too many bowling alleys.
Profile
Business: Paramount Bowl
Address: 2625 Kipling St., Wheat Ridge
Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, noon-8 p.m. Sunday
Founded: 1954
Contact: 303-237-1936
Employees: 6
