Published in April 30, 2010 St. Cloud Times

SARTELL — The Sartell Chamber of Commerce has named Great River Bowl & Partners Pub its 2010 Business of the Year.

Great River Bowl is owned by Lyle and Barb Mathiasen of Sartell. The Mathiasens purchased the bowling alley at 208 Second St. S in 1984.
“When you get an award like this from your peers, it’s one of the most gratifying things,” Lyle Mathiasen said. “Especially when you have nominees like this, including Verso and Coborn’s, it’s a pretty significant list and winning this award is the most gratifying thing in the world.”
Since its purchase, the business has expanded from 16 to 24 lanes, and added a restaurant and outdoor courtyard.
With the approval of the Sartell City Council, it has secured a purchase agreement that opens the way for expansions and renovations this summer.
The Business of the Year award is given to a member of the Sartell Chamber with a growing business and a commitment to the community.
Great River Bowl was one of 10 businesses nominated for this year’s award. It was the unanimous choice of the awards committee, which is comprised of members of the Sartell Senior Connection and the 2009 award winner.
It has six full-time employees and 30 seasonal part-time employees.
“From ages 3-93, Great River Bowl has provided programs and activities for all and is constantly trying new ways to become involved,” Community Education Director Chris Kosloski said. “... This business, and specifically Jason and Lyle Mathiasen, is really seeing the big picture on how they can help people in the community. They’ve figured out just how to be a community member and make a difference.”
Great River Bowl supports community efforts by staging of local events such as Community Education’s annual children’s Halloween Bash and Thanksgiving Bash where it collected more than 4,000 pounds of food for area food shelves last year.
“Great River Bowl & Partners Pub has demonstrated time and time again their dedication to this community,” nominator Josh Bentley wrote. “... ‘No’ is not in their vocabulary; the answer is always how or when can we help.”
The Mathiasens donate thousands of dollars to local schools, youth organizations, arts programs and nonprofit organizations each year.
During SummerFest, Great River Bowl plays host to more than 400 children at the annual Teen Xtravaganza that launches the festival each year. It also empties its parking lot to host the street dance and fireworks that close the festival.

“I own a business, which creates an obligation to give back as much as we can,” Lyle Mathiasen said. “In our case it’s good business, but it also helps you sleep at night.”