WHITESTONE LANES
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Marco Macaluso, Owner

Marco keeps Whitestone Lanes rolling by investing in advertising and keeping track of his expenses. Being the only 24-hour alley in town doesn’t hurt either.

What one factor is most important to success?

Hard work and long hours.

What do you look for in an employee?

I value dedication and loyalty, someone who shows up on time. We have full-time employees and a lot of part-timers, which you have to look at a little differently. In the long term, you want to find somebody more dedicated because they are going to be here. I also try to find somebody interested in this type of business, bowling, and then they’ll like being here to begin with.

What’s the best way to save money?

Keep on top of all deliveries, payroll and expenses. It’s just a matter of diligence in keeping track of everything.

What’s the best way to spend money?

Advertising. I do both billboards and print. We have no commercials, though. They’re too expensive.

What’s your greatest pleasure?

To be successful in business and feel like you’ve accomplished your goals.

What’s the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?

I plan my day. I don’t write anything down, but I go over everything in my head.

How do you deal with stress?

Just relax and exercise. Bowling is one way, but I also like to run.

What one lesson do you hope to pass on to your children?

Work hard and save your money.

How do you bounce back from adversity?

I look over what the problem was, realize where I went wrong, and try to make the best adjustments I can.

What’s your favorite thing about Queens?

I like it because it’s a mix. It’s not Manhattan, but it’s not the suburbs, it’s in-between. It’s not all the way out in Montauk, which is like the countryside, but you’re not totally surrounded by tall buildings.

Macaluso grew up working at the bowling alley, which his father started over 40 years ago, and now helps run it. He believes his venue is the only bowling alley open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Late-shift employees like policemen and airport staff often stop by after work to relax. Partygoers also make the trek all the way from Manhattan to bowl a few frames before calling it a night.

BUSINES TIP

– Mark Twain, American Author

“Human nature is the same everywhere; it deifies success, it has nothing but scorn for defeat.”

 

 

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