Creston to have fun....again

Under a new name but with many of its past features returns Saturday as the Creston Fun Center opens at 5 p.m.

Formerly known as the Feldhacker Family Fun Center, the site at 301 N. Cherry St. will reopen even though people are still working with some improvements.

“It’s more of a soft opening,” said Alicia Feldhacker as she was preparing the kitchen and last brushes of paint. “We won’t have all the bowling alley lanes ready and we won’t have all our menu items, but we think we will have enough for kids.”

The center had not seen any activity since COVID-19 shut down many entertainment venues. But since COVID has lost much of its threat, discussions were about how to bring the fun center back.

“We got to the point of saying what needs done on what could make it better with what is existing now,” said Jesse Bolinger, who is also assisting with opening the center.

Bolinger and Feldhacker were confident enough was already there to pick up where it left off more than two years ago.

“We still need a place for kids to go, gather and have fun,” Bolinger said.

Feldhacker said the center will only be open from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. There is no entry charge. She wants the first few nights for kids to share what else would like to see in there. Feldhacker is hoping the center will gain momentum and be able to add new features in the future.

“We can get into any expansion later,” Bolinger said.

Feldhacker said she will also have the facility available by reservation for birthday parties, church youth groups and other social groups.

Saturday, those who show up will see the bowling lanes, miniature-golf course, laser tag, pool tables, skee ball and a four-person air hockey table.

“That is a must to play,” she said.

Feldhacker is waiting for some parts for some of the automated bowling scoreboards. Not every lane will be available. She said some bowling lanes still work but players will need to manually keep score.

The concession stand will have a light, limited menu. Feldhacker said most of the offerings are more like appetizers. Pizza will be available.

“It’s been too long since people have been there,” Bolinger said. “Get in there; play, talk, tell us what is wanted. Our community needs this open again.”