Couple Strike Into New Venture With Purchase of Powder River Lanes

Following twelve years of ownership by Bob and Darlene Salomon, the iconic downtown landmark Powder River Lanes has changed hands, with new owners Jeff and Jenny Alterman taking over this week.

We sat down with the couple earlier this week to discuss their new business venture.

The couple recently moved to Broadus from Overbrook, Kansas, but had been looking into moving to Montana for several years. Jeff, an avid bird hunter, chased waterfowl and upland birds across Central Montana, and after introducing Jenny to the sport, they began to look into a business in Central or Eastern Montana.

"It was time for a new adventure," Jenny said of the decision to buy the bowling alley in particular. Prior to their new venture into the restauranteur business, Jenny spent two decades in the real estate business, while Jeff had a successful career in drywall. With the move, the couple will be closer to the good bird country they enjoy, while expanding into a new lane of life – the lanes of the bowling alley.

Jeff told us that plans for Powder River Lanes in the near future include expanded hours, and the addition of food specials to the menu. The restaurant will be open from Monday through Thursday, 8 am – 2 pm, and again from 5 – 8 pm Monday through Thursday, while evening hours will be 5 – 10 pm on Friday and Saturday. Those hours are set to kick in with a tentative date of August 9th, but may go into effect sooner. Additionally, if the couple is able to find more help, those hours may expand or even switch to seven day coverage.

Plans for food include regular menu specials, as well as eventually expanding into a Saturday, bbq, where Jeff will make his signature ribs and pulled pork. Pizza and wing specials are planned for football season, where diners may watch the games on a new big screen tv. Additionally, Jeff would like to add tap beer to the drink menu, as well as a milkshake machine.

Jenny told us that they plan to repaint the exterior of the building in the near future, as well as getting the old lighted sign atop the building operational once again. They will slowly upgrade the interior but don't plan on any drastic changes, as they'd like to keep things as they are, when those things are working fine.

Bowling league will continue this winter as always, while anyone looking to throw parties for kids or adults are encouraged to call Powder River Lanes to use the bowling alley for a venue.

The Altermans are currently looking for waitstaff and cooks, and encourage young folks including high schoolers to apply for the positions.

"We are big supporters of youth," Jeff told us. The couple spent many years ferrying their kids to various sporting events and supported youth programs back in Kansas, and look forward to supporting the kids of Powder River County.

In talking to former owner Bob Salomon, he was happy to see the new owners take over the reins, and was looking forward to see local folks support their business. He also wanted to thank the people of Broadus for all the support and friendship he and Darlene have felt over the years, as they move into retirement. The Salomons plan to retire and stay in Broadus.

Jeff and Jenny are excited about the new business, mentioning that everyone in the community has been incredibly welcoming and encouraging. Jenny commented: "We're really looking forward to the opportunity".