International Bowling Hall of Fame Has New Executive Director

Courtesy of USBC media:

ARLINGTON, TX - The International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame (IBM/HF) has hired Bill Supper to become its executive director. A long-time industry executive, Supper has had stints with Ebonite International, Storm Bowling Products and Columbia 300, and currently is the deputy executive director of the Bowling Proprietors' Association of America. He also serves as the executive director of the International Bowling Pro Shop and Instructors Association (IBPSIA), as well as the Billiard and Bowling Institute of America (BBIA).

"I am honored, humbled and thrilled to be named the executive director of our crown jewel," Supper said. "The idea of coming to office during this time in building a new museum and hall of fame is quite an opportunity."

Jerry Baltz, the long-time executive director of the IBM/HF, retired on July 31. Supper will assume his new duties on September 1. Jim Baltz, the curator of the museum for the past seven years, has agreed to remain on board at least through the opening of the museum, which is scheduled for January 25, 2010, during the Bowling Summit in Arlington.

The IBM/HF also has added Lori Tessmar, president of sales and marketing for Turbo Accessories, to its board of trustees. Tessmar has served on other boards in the industry, and was the first female president, representing bowling, of the BBIA. She currently serves as a director on the advisory board for IBPSIA.

The IBM/HF elections resulted in officers and executive committee members in familiar roles:

- Pat Ciniello, Chairman and President (President, QubicaAMF Worldwide LLC) - Keith Hamilton, Vice-Chairman and Vice-President (President, Luby Publishing, Inc.) - Terry Brenneman, Treasurer (President, Bowling Supply) - Bob Gudorf, Secretary (Vice-President, Classic Products Corp.) - Wally Hall, at-large (Hall Bowling Investments) - Bill Chrisman, at-large (Owner, Storm Bowling Products) - Elaine Hagen, at large (USBC Hall of Fame; replaces Ted Baer, whose term on board expired)