HOLLAND, Mich. – When a fire claimed the kitchen at Century Lanes on Feb. 5, owners thought the business would be ready to re-open within a week. Now, 22 seasonal employees are out of work.

“We were naive in thinking this was a quick fix,” Phil Huffman, co-owner of Century Lanes said.

A surveillance camera in the kitchen indicates the fire started with an electrical outlet.

Smoke, soot and water damage are what was left behind for business owners, Phil and Beth Huffman to clean up.

“It’s a messy job, complicated by having to protect the new synthetic lanes, ball returns, scoring consoles and pinsetters,” Phil said. “Electronic systems and monitors for scoring and point of sales have to be taken apart and cleaned.”

Phil said February is one of the busiest months for Century Lanes.

“Our 760-plus bowlers are in the middle of their season with standings and prize money at stake,” Phil said.

If that’s not disappointing enough, the fire left the owners unable to provide work for their employees.

“As much as I would like to involve the staff in the cleanup process, I’ve been advised not to,” Phil said. “The risk of injury is a greater liability than Century Lanes can assume.”

Customers can watch the progress Century Lanes is making by clicking HERE.