'Dollars' returns
If you were a bowler during the 1970s, and lived in a fairly good-sized metropolitan area, chances are you had the opportunity to watch a program called "Bowling for Dollars."
Some of the most famous names in broadcasting served as hosts of the show's regional editions, including Los Angeles Lakers' play-by-play man Chick Hearn and Dallas Cowboys' announcer Verne Lundquist (who went on to a long, still-in-progress career with CBS Sports).
In Minnesota's Twin Cities, the host was a local sports reporter, Tom Ryther, who presided over the proceedings on KSTP-TV.
Last night — for one night only, as they say in show biz — Ryther revived "Bowling for Dollars" during an appearance at Bryant-Lake Bowl. The evening's festivities included showing clips from the program, a Q&A session and even the chance for attendees to win prizes.
"I put my heart and soul into that show," Ryther, now 72, told the Pioneer Press. "I still have a gold jacket I used to wear."
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Do you have memories of the "Bowling for Dollars" program in your city? Who was the host? Leave a response below or on BJI's Facebook page.