New Beginnings on the Yard: Jaguar Lanes, Chick-fil-A are here to stay

The new school year was kicked off by the completion of highly anticipated campus renovations such as Jaguar Lanes and Chick-fil-A, both located in the student union.
The Jaguar Lanes bowling alley has been under construction for approximately a year and a half. The student body voted in favor of paying an additional $15 dedicated to repairing Jaguar Lanes.
Anthony Jackson, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, said the Student Government Association played a big role in wanting to offer more for students. He described the process as a “student driven initiative.”
The student approved fee is currently in use, as items for the bowling alley are still being purchased. The cost of new bowling lanes were in the range of $400,000 to $500,000.
The lanes were resurfaced and certified by the National Bowling Association on April 27, 2017. Until this date, the lanes had not been resurfaced and certified since 1988. New cubicle amf machines suitable for national and professional bowling tournaments have also been installed.
The Southern University bowling team will utilize the bowling alley for practices and tournaments as well. The tentative date for the opening of Jaguar Lanes is September 1, 2017. Students are patiently, yet eagerly awaiting the grand opening.
Tamirion Reese, a senior Interdisciplinary Studies major from Baton Rouge, Louisiana said, “I think the renovations will contribute to student activity on the campus and motivate students to want to partake in other campus attractions.”
Currently, security measures are being finalized to ensure the safety of students.
Jackson stated that faculty and students alike are already eager to experience the improved Jaguar Lanes. There is speculation that it may be the biggest bowling alley in the SWAC.
Jackson plans to add to the vibrant atmosphere by installing cosmic bowling with laser lights for those who bowl at night.
The bowling screens are equipped with user friendly features that allow you to do a number of things such as take pictures and chat with other bowlers around you.
As of now, there is no concessions area, however bowlers will be able to purchase snacks through campus dining. Jackson’s main objective for the rebuilding of Jaguar Lanes was to make sure he was “listening to the students” and giving them “an area for relaxation.” He wants students to interact with their peers and meet new people through this upgraded facility.
The goal was to create a fun and lively atmosphere that will help students balance academics with leisure. There will also be a bowling class available in the spring for those interested in learning.
Student Affairs, with the help of Campus Dining, also put their best foot forward in the conception of Chick-fil-A (CFA). After being under construction for approximately 35 days, CFA’s grand opening was August 23, 2017. Last spring, students took a Food Services Committee survey asking what they would like to see in the place of Popeyes.
There were options of several national brands such as Taco Bell and Pizza Hut. Randall Andre, director of Campus Dining, was glad students chose CFA, as it is a “strong, growing brand.”
Quinshala Ford, a senior Nursing major from Baton Rouge, Louisiana shares the same sentiments, saying “It’s great to have such variety in the union now.” Out of 300 surveys, 95% of students chose CFA. It definitely proved to be a crowd favorite, drawing in a huge line of customers.
According to Andre, twice as many students were served at the grand opening of CFA in comparison to students served at Popeyes in the past.
Despite having a slightly limited menu, chicken nuggets and milkshakes were the biggest sellers followed by the Original Chicken Sandwich. Sales are expected to be maintained as well as the speed of service. The average wait time, with the exception of special orders, is two and a half minutes.
The staff consists of student employees and trainers from various CFA locations including Virginia and New Orleans. Students are encouraged to join the CFA family as a means to bridge the gap between students by building relationships as well as gaining valuable work experience.
Andre stated that work hours are flexible and revolve around the students’ class times. The staff is required to adhere to CFA’s distinct standard of great customer service, friendly, positive attitude and overall hospitality.
Students can apply at www.aramark.com. As far as expansion of new restaurants and other endeavors, Andre says what matters most is that “students are involved in decision making.”
Campus Dining and Student Affairs expect the new CFA to be around for awhile.

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After months of upgrades, newly renovated Jaguar Lanes is set to open on September 1. (DIGEST FILE)