After a Benton pool hall collapses due to heavy ice, another rises with 3 players as owners

When a beloved Benton pool hall collapsed under the weight of heavy ice and snow, three longtime customers lost more than a place to shoot pool — they lost their “home bar.”

About eight months later, Phillip and Kellye Goldie and Charles “Steve” Smith have teamed up to open Stix Billiards, a new pool hall near the Saline County Fairgrounds. Read more below.

For the three partners, opening Stix is a way to keep the local pool community rolling while creating a place where newcomers can learn the game and experienced players can compete.

They were regulars at CJ’z Billiards in downtown Benton before the building collapsed. Kellye Goldie said CJ’z was the group’s “home bar” for their pool league, and the people there had become family. That connection helped inspire the new business.

Phillip Goldie has been playing pool for about 26 years, while Kellye has about 13 years of experience. Smith has played on and off for approximately 30 years.

Stix Billiards, located at 625 Fairfield Road in Benton, features 12 tables for tournaments, league play, practice and open play. The owners said some tables will be available most nights during league play, while Fridays and Saturdays will otherwise be open for customers.

They also plan to host Saturday tournaments, with tournament information to be posted on its Facebook page.

Customers don’t need to arrive with a custom pool cue and years of experience. The owners said pool cues and other equipment will be available for people who don’t have their own.

“Beginners to advanced” players are welcome, according to the owners, as are people who simply want to get out of the house and try something new.

For those who prefer a little music with their pool, Stix has a jukebox. They currently offer sodas and pre-packaged snacks, like chips and candy. The owners have applied for a beverage license, with plans for beer and wine.

Stix’s location puts it next door to the Saline County Fairgrounds, where large events can bring plenty of additional traffic. The owners said they plan to continue their normal daily operation when events are taking place at the fairgrounds.

Running a pool hall is also being added to already busy lives. The Goldies operate a flooring business, Kellye works as a registered nurse, and Smith owns an automotive shop.

For now, their new venture gives local players a place to rack up the balls, compete, practice or simply spend an evening with friends.