Whether their achievements were on the lanes or behind the scenes, the people included in the Hall of Fame section of the new International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame in Arlington, Texas, will be part of something quite special.

What took up a large amount of space in the IBM/HF's former home in St. Louis will be contained in one state-of-the-art exhibit. Instead of large portraits or plaques and a small amount of information about each person, 21st-century technology will incorporate Hall of Famers from five organizations in one interactive exhibit with an abundance of facts and tidbits.

More than 460 Hall of Famers from the Bowling Proprietors' Association of America, United States Bowling Congress, Professional Bowlers Association, Professional Women's Bowling Association and the World Bowling Writers will be featured.

On three touch-screen monitors on a circular counter, visitors will be able to search for these people by name, organization, year and why they were inducted. They'll also be able to view facts about each person along with photographs and, for some, films and videos going back more than 50 years.

On the wall above the monitors, a lighted display of etched images of a bowler going through the steps to deliver the ball and the ball rolling toward knocking down pins will be seen. "We recently tested this section and it looks fantastic," said IBM/HF Executive Director Bill Supper. "To say this will be eye-catching would be an understatement."

Across from the Hall of Fame display will be a semi-circular wall that will feature modern ceiling-height replicas of AMF and Brunswick pins and balls. There's also an additional touch-screen monitor where people can have their pictures taken with any of the greats.

"That side will be more decorative which will allow for a backdrop to highlight new Hall of Famers," said Doug Simpler, senior graphic designer at Museum Arts of Dallas. "There also will be a small stage area for presentations. This will serve as an all-purpose room."

The Hall of Fame section is scheduled to open Jan. 26, 2010.

 

Related Articles

ITRC to stand as bowling's elite training ground for bowlers, coaches and pro shop professionals
Museum's Jack Reichert Education and Learning Center will help educate people of all ages about bowling
Museum's 'Bowling Reaches Out' section honors special groups, people
Inside the ITRC with Rod Ross and Kim Terrell-Kearney
Excitement of today's bowling highlights Museum's modern era section
USBC Coaching expertise to grow through use of ITRC
Museum Theatre will transition visitors from historic to modern times
Inside the ITRC with USBC Technical Director Steve Kloempken
Museum's history section shows bowling from beginnings into 1900s
ITRC tech toys to further Equipment Specifications and Certifications initiatives
International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame Grand Entrance to set the tone for visitors
International Training and Research Center will benefit all of bowling
City of Arlington helps to promote Campus to Visitors