OUT OF THE ALLEY VALLEY BOWLING CENTERS REDEFINE EXPERIENCE.

Byline: RICK COCA Vally News Writer

With flashing lights, surround-sound stereo systems, wide-screen televisions and computer-generated scoring, bowling centers in the Valley are light-years ahead of the dimly lit, smoke- filled bowling alleys of the past.

Catering more to young people and families by hosting children's birthday parties and late-night bowling events with light shows, throbbing bass lines and hip-hop music, many bowling centers are redefining the sport.

Traditionalists need not worry, as league play and walk-in bowling still account for much of the revenue for most local centers.

At AMF Rocket Bowl in Chatsworth, Gary Dempsey, 37, bowled with a group of friends, which included a fair mix of women and men.

Growing up in Burbank, the Pasadena resident bowled plenty of games in the San Fernando Valley.

``It just brings you back,'' Dempsey said of bowling again. ``And it's good to bring the friends together.''

Complete story on Page 8

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(color) Gary Dempsey, 37, of Pasadena, is a man in motion, as he bowls at AMF Rocket Bowl in Chatsworth and displays the form he learned growing up and bowling in the San Fernando Valley.

Rick Coca/Valley News