- Beachbook
- Coastal Review Online
- Dare County
- Duck
- Island Free Press
- Kill Devil Hills
- Kitty Hawk
- Manteo
- Nags Head
- Nighthawk News
- Southern Shores
- Bill's OBX Beach Life
- N.E.S.T Online
- Natural Outer Banks
- Red Headed Beach Girl
- Rosie Hawthorne
- See more local blogs »
Finance troubles force bowling center to close
Nags Head Bowling Center’s last day is Sunday.
As if we needed one less family-oriented activity on the Outer Banks, word came over the weekend that the venerable Nags Head Bowling Center is closing its doors.
Owner Linda Alice Mohr said the center, which is the only bowling alley on the Outer Banks, said she must start moving out Monday.
Like so many local businesses, a central issue appears to be the status of a commercial loan.
According to the owner, a commercial appraisal revealed the property was worth well more than twice the loan balance, but the bank refused to work with her after a year of discussions.
The fate of the building now lies, according to Mohr, on which of two groups bidding on the property will prevail.
Ready for a birthday party Saturday.
One has promised the owner to keep the property operating as a bowling alley, retain the current staff and make some improvements.
The other group has offered no such assurances.
Mohr was barely able to maintain her composure Saturday morning when speaking with the Voice. A lone bowler occupied one lane; a children’s birthday party was getting under way at the other end of the alley.
Employees huddled behind the counter. Many have been with the alley for 10 or 15 years and are well known to regular patrons.
Their faces revealed the concerns and shock of what was a sudden decision, according to the owner, to pull the plug this weekend.
The center has long been a social center for the community. Mohr has owned it since the mid- 1990s and it was a bowling center before that.
Owner Linda Alice Mohr, right, talks with employees.
It opened its doors to charity fund raisers, held after-prom parties to keep local teens off the streets after dances and adult leagues drew participants from Hatteras, Currituck and even mainland counties.
“It’s like its own little country club or social club,” said Mohr. “The thing about bowling is anybody can bowl. There are all these sports out there for the kids, but not every kid can play sports. We can get them in here and teach them to excel at their own speed and play a team sport.”
At night, especially in the winter, indoor activities for kids are few and far between. Families would pile into the alley with young children and they could bowl, with kids using the bumpers to avoid gutter balls.
On weekend nights, the alley would switch to a “Rock n’ Bowl’ format with black lights and rock music. Teens would swarm the place, bowling, playing arcade games and generally staying out of trouble.
With the fate of the alley out her hands, Mohr said all she can do is “pray and hope” the new owners will keep the business going. “We don’t need any more chain stores in this location,” she said.
The alley, in Nags Head on the bypass, sits on a lot adjacent to TJ Maxx, Staples and the new PetSmart.
See what people are saying:
Join the discussion:
You must be registered and logged in to post a comment.
- MOST READ
- MOST DISCUSSED
- Beach nourishment is a go in Kill Devil Hills
- Tourism board told grant denial flouts free speech
- Three arrested after theft of safe from Stumpy Point
- Catch a good meal at Armstrong's
- Reward increased for fugitive Luis Rodriguez
- Arts & Entertainment
- Cruise OK'd for indicted former bombing range boss
- Forum focuses on pending flood insurance changes
SekZ says:
What a Shame! I know we will all miss it if it’s gone. It’s been a part of our OBX for a LONG time. I hope the new owners keep it going.
Dare family says:
I am so sad to hear this. My family has spent many of Saturday nights there.
beachlivin' says:
what a shame. im so sorry to hear of this. i do hope the new owners will keep it a bowling alley.
Tammy Rose says:
I am so sorry to hear this news ! My family loves the bowling alley . I feel so sorry for the employees . Best if luck to all of you .
Lori Keck says:
Wow this is one of the saddest things I have read in years, there is such lack of community places to gather and do things unless you are an old person and heck what will happen to the bowling leagues …those ladies will be out walking the streets or weaving baskets without their bowling teams to keep them limber…what a shame shows financial organizations expect handouts when they get in trouble but when an IMPORTANT business needs the help they look the other way… I would like to know what bank it is so I never do business with them. I pray the smart people buy it and keep it going…or better yet buy it and let Ms. Mohr keep managing it…GOD BLESS
teedoff says:
Thank obummer!!
KHer says:
Sad. I didn’t bowl there often, but when I did it was always fun and a welcomed diversion.
Lynne says:
So sad to hear it!! I will take my daughter tomorrow, and cross my fingers it’s not the last time she’ll get to bowl! Thank you Linda and staff, for creating a safe, welcoming environment for my family! You will be missed!
Ana says:
How sad! But what does “status of loan” mean? Does it mean that the owner defaulted on the loan?
Chris says:
It is a sad thing. My understanding is that another Wings/ Super wings will be built in it’s place. It’s just what we need right? Another store selling sh** from China.
Bubba says:
Sad news. My son had a birthday party there. We went bowling a few times a year.
Traci says:
What a travesty!! I am SO upset over this, as a mother of two small girls we have had and attended quite a few birthday parties over the years. The Mohr’s are a great family and they have a great staff. I am praying that some last minute miracle will come through to keep this local, family owned business from having to close the doors.
johnr says:
Voice, Ana has the salient question—what does “status of a commercial loan” mean in this story?
Jon says:
This is just devastating. The support the Mohrs gave to the community, especially to Special Olympics, was just above and beyond the call of duty. I’m so sorry it has to end this way.
gangneighbors says:
You can bet your bottom dollar that it will not remain a bowling alley for long……with Petsmart, TJ Maxx and Staples, it’s just a matter of time before another “chain” moves in….the center is now drawing a good crowd……and watch Petsmart put Pet Gallery out of business too!
Bob says:
This place was cool, def hope someone buys it and makes it look better! It’s needs a makeover bad! But I hope a new owner comes in to make that happen. If not. Well then whats done is done the mohr’s had plenty of business they should have used their money wisely
No More Wings says:
I heard the owner of all the Wings is buying the property. This is disheartening to say the least. I’ll bet if a story had been published prior to all of legalities taking place the community just might have pulled together to save our one and only bowling alley.
mom says:
Very upset about this. What a huge loss for our community.
Lindsay says:
This news makes me so sad. The bowling alley supported this community, offering a good time for reasonable prices and opportunities for fundraising events for several local charities. I wish there was something that we could do to reciprocate the support to the business and its employees by helping to prevent its closure. Is there?
Rupert Perry says:
Richard and Linda Mohr are my long time friends and it just pains me to hear that they are shutting down the Bowling center down that I grew up in for 18 years of my life before I moved on with my life, moving to Florida wherei meet my wife which I am married to. This just amazed me to see this in the paper. I come back two to three times a year to visit my Family and to stop by and see Richard and Linda. This was a heart break for me. It will be ashamed to not have a bowling center for young kids to go and stay off the streets, like I did. They let me work for them when I was still in school and after school for sometime. It almost seemed like my second home so to speak.
dawn Midgette says:
Whose the bank maybe we should boycot it and the new business
bob says:
Why Banks continue to be at the top of the **** list. I was turned down on a 10K business bridge loan (for the winter) that was located on property on which I have over 500K equity…go figure! Seems the banks just aren’t interested in working with business owners. Follow the dollar and see if the bank build…yep…another bank on the site; or…if the new owner has ties, if you get my drift.
Leslie says:
You forgot to give the name of the Bank. I am sure they would want the free advertising.
Donny says:
With all the banks on the beach you’d think there would be one with money to lend to a longtime local business.
Renate says:
Well there goes our growing Special Olympics bowling teams…Linda and staff have been so kind and genreous to folks in our community with disabibilities. We have been going there every Friday for YEARS. They allow us to bowl for $1.00 and once a month that includes lunch…the staff greet us all with kindness and condideration and make every one of us feel special when we walk through the door. Friday bowling is a social conerstone for us and I cannot even imgaine the disapointment folks will experience when we have to tell them this dreadful news…this is awful and is going to break many hearts. Special Olympics Bowling in Dare County is now over unless this changes.
wayne says:
Just to those wo want to know the bank…well I hope none of you use Towne Bank….just sayin
KDH Rezident Evil says:
Sorry to hear this. The Bowling Alley was always a great fallback when beach days were ruined by rain or when everyone in the house starts to get cabin fever during the winter months.
Cathy Lesiewicz says:
We just celebrated our Grandsons’ birthdays at the Nags Head Bowling last Sunday and as usual we had a great time! The staff has always been friendly & helpful. The Outer Banks will remember the good times. Let’s hope the right people are able to take over
jackie says:
This is a sad day,I live in Eliz.City and work at Albemarle Bowling Center even though i have never had the chance to bowl at the beach we have bowlers that have bowled on leagues at the beach prayers go out to the owners and their employees i know what they are going through first hand.
Heidi Irvin says:
This is horribly sad news !!! My husband and I just joined a league to spend quality fun time together and meet new people; it’s a fantastic family/friend activity which we really need in this area !!!! The people there are just awesome. I am praying it does not have to end! We don’t need another Wings for goodness sakes ! uck !
surfer143 says:
So sorry to hear. We will miss the bowling alley!!!
Brenda butler says:
It’s a shame the bowling ally is closing and the question is don’t we have enought shops and not enough for our children to do around here. As it is,, what do kids and young adults Do?
doug says:
BOWLING IS ONE OF THE HARDEST SPORTS TO EXCELL AT. I BOWL THE FIRST 300 GAME THERE AND IT TOOK ME MANY YEARS TO DO THIS WITH THE HELP OF LINDA AND RICHARD.
Russell Lay says:
Banks, by law, cannot comment on loan issues.It would violate Bank Privacy acts on several levels. Since we cannot call them for their side, we also will not print the name of the bank since they cannot respond. You can never know what “default” means or “can it be worked out?” from one lender to another.
As a former banker, there is a lot of daylight beween a problem loan and when the “trigger” to default is pulled. That said, every bank has its own loan culture and risk assessment criteria. Even if I looked at it, with 30 years experience, I wouldn’t question another banker’s assessment that differs from mine.
Russ
Karen Gregory says:
Absolutely appalling. Let’s raise some money to help save the bowling alley!! Who’s in??
Chris says:
I hate hearing about the loss of another local family business (or home) because banks wont loan $$ on property where I assume in this case has equity. Bernakes reckless printing of $40 BILLION $’s / mo to buy mtg backed securities so banks can loan $$ to get this economy rolling is a lie. Banks aren’t loaning, they are stealing property and lining their pockets because they know this ship is going down. They are hoarding wealth. Sad truth is we will continue to read stories such as this and experience inflation & taxes like none of us has ever seen. Wake UP! Its so much bigger than Democrat v Republican
charlie says:
Hey Russ… Who’s the bank? I’m sure a lot of us would gladly visit them and express our appreciation for their cold heartedness…..
This looks like one of those coldhearted no brainer beencounter situations…The bank won’t renegotiate because of the equity and they can flip the property and not lose $$$…Of course just another piece of what makes the OBX the OBX will be bulldozed away.
Does anyone remember when bankers worked with and helped local businesses to succeed?
Lindsey says:
This hits to close to home for me!! My mother worked at the bowling center as long as I can remember and she passed away this year from lung cancer. She was a good friend of Linda’s and everyone from the bowling leagues. She would do anything she could for that place. Linda had a charity event in honor of my mother Brenda Dail, I can’t thank Linda enough for everything she did for us in our time of need. She is the most genuain person I know!! All the memories in that place I pray to my mother that it keeps going as a bowling ally so more kids can have the childhood memories as I did.
flo says:
This is so typical of the Outer Banks. All the good places are going out and new crappy retailers moving in.
Sorry to hear this. We are very sad to lose our bowling nights.
Thank you for all the fun times Nags Head Bowling.
Jon S. says:
As a humble visitor, that was always on our list of favorite things to do. We liked the off-season to avoid the tourists(we live near DC so we know a little about them)and in the winter it was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. How can we get involved so the new owners know how we feel?
OBXKarlitos says:
Please come out and show your support tomorrow. I think enough community outcry and support over this imminent tragedy could be what’s needed to sway the outcome from its current heading. I have to believe there is still hope.
Kevin Gray Conner says:
Another sad day for the Outer Banks! I’ve always heard the cliche, “Money is the root of all evil,” and that seems to fit this situation well. Isn’t there anything that can be done to help save the bowling alley? Our kids have so few things to do here anymore and now they’re going to take this away! Is anyone interested in the people that live on the Outer Banks anymore? This is just intolerable!
Crystal says:
If it is another wings or some mess like that we should advocate for a shutdown of it. It was right of someone to say that if they had reported this sooner maybe the community could have done something because it is just another winter time loss for us locals. Then the town of nags head doesnt want to help anyways they just let things get bulldozed into more wings and stuff. And it will keep happening until there is nothing left to do on the beach in the winter! Unless we citizens take a stand and say no more we need something to do besides go to the aquarium or the movies in manteo (don’t get me wrong love the pioneer theater but sometimes u want something else to do) stop allowing wings or all these other retailers to take over and just give us something to do!
Ron R says:
Wtf! Are we not suppose to have any family friendly activities on the Outer Banks other than shopping at Wings or Auto Zone? Once more, another example of the OBX small business owner getting screwed by the man.
Richard Dewhurst says:
This is very sadening to say the least, Linda and Richard did great things for the community diring the 20 years that I have known them. When I recieved the call from one of my teammates I was in total disbelief. Bowling is a great sport even some don’t think it is and it really does bring people together. I wish the Mohrs and all the employees the best of luck and pray that the new owners will consider keeping this OBX landmark open.
ekim says:
Cant trust your local BANK any more.We will remember this!
bob says:
Is there a bank out there with a sense of community that can take a look at this situation and step up to the plate?
Mr Nice Guy says:
We went once to the bowling alley but it was too expensive. For my wife me and my son it was sixty dollars. We were told we went at the wrong time whatever that means. Whenever you have a business where you don’t own the building it can be risky. That said I hope something can be worked out because people like their bowling alley’s.
ol' Mann says:
Out with the old, in with the new?
Remember the Casino?
The Galleon Esplanade and A Restaurant by George?
C&B Grocery store?
Dowdy’s Amusement Park?
The Epstein tract before it was commercialized?
Colington before the stoplight?
The ferry at Oregon Inlet?
ALL of this is about the Benjamin’s!! Whoever forks over the most, wins. Sad but true. This will be the way of the bowling alley, too, unless somebody comes up with the big bucks.
OBX has long lost its appeal to me. Why would I want to drive all that way to experience inflated prices, consistently horrible service, rude “locals” and absolutely nothing (new) of interest to do, no matter your age!
There is a lot of noise in this thread, sounding off is easy. If you REALLY want something done, action would be a better choice. Put up your Benjamin’s folks!!! I don’t think bowling a game or two on this “last day” is going to be enough, though.
All the crying is not accomplishing anything. There is power in numbers, especially when referring to the Benjamin’s! If all you do is express your dissatisfaction and reminisce, then you deserve another (God forbid) Wings, chain store or whatever you get!!!
Blaming the bank is wrong. We ALL know that offering unsecured loans is a large part of the mess we are all trying to navigate now. The bank making another one will only prolong the injury!
You have to pay to play and times are tough!
New is not always better but change is inevitable! Often your change of choice is available for purchase.
Rob Beedie says:
Banks are to Big To Fail, right.
Maybe Small American Businesses should start borrowing money from COMMUNIST CHINA.
Maybe China will open up branches throughout America and we can deal with our enemies so they can bury us as promised.
Sad news indeed regardless of the reasons.
Banks will fail again, guaranteed!
obxdoodlebug says:
sad that the outer banks has absolutely nothing for kids to do and no where anymore to go and have a family outing. everyone loves to go bowling whether they are good at it or not. young and old.just makes a fun filled day. so sorry to hear this news.
Miss Faith says:
As a parent, my heart is breaking for our kids, our community and the Mohrs. The center provided a SAFE, fun place for kids and adults alike! Okay – don’t shoot me, but I’m hopeing and PRAYING that Israel and the IG Holdings Group are buying the bowling alley to turn it into a SPECTACULAR snd AFFORDABLE (as it is now) family activity/bowling center, as they did to the Paradise Golf complex in KH, next to Dunkin Donuts. I KNOW that that was to target the tourist business, but I also know that Israel was there every day to make sure everything was executed perfectly to fulfill his vision. I think that even they (IG Holdings) know we don’t need another Wings store on this beach. Personally, I applaud them each winter for the 50% Off Everything Sale. They are the only reason I have top shelf beach chairs and towels. I couldn’t afford $75.00 sand chairs at full price – who amongst us can? What other tourist dollar mongers on this beach does that for us? Let us not lay down and accept another defeat. I’m sure at this point that Linda has exhaused all possibilities on the monetary battle front – let’s put POSITIVE energy and thoughts out into the universe so whomever takes possession recognizes the Bowling Center’s significant contribution and value to this community! Any other outcome would be an unimaginable injustice.
Jon says:
Russ, you might not want to name the bank but mortgages are public record. Doesn’t seem you have a consistent policy given the widely criticized article you published on Summerfield.
I don’t have any idea what transpired between the Mohrs and the bank, that isn’t my business beyond the public mortgage records. So I also do not question the bank’s decision to foreclose.
But if the bank markets themselves as a community bank then it is incumbent upon the bank to act in a manner that supports the community. That includes any decision on disposition of the property in foreclosure.
If the bank is aware of the importance of the bowling alley to the community but chooses a buyer who will demolish the lanes over another buyer who wants to operate the alley, and the bank does so in order to maximize profit at the expense of the needs of the kids, seniors, and disabled citizens of this community, then it follows that bank doesn’t measure up to its claim to be a community bank.
On the other hand, if the bank goes out of its way to find a buyer who can successfully operate the bowling alley and retain the staff then they deserve the recognition for that as well.
What would George Bailey do?
Allan says:
While this is very sad for the owners & the people who actually utilized The Bowling Center Regularly. How many of you upset by this went there every week? or even every month? The OBX has a reputation for not supporting businesses and then as soon as they hear it may/will close they become supporters. Apparently, the projected income wasn’t enough to carry the loan. Banks are in business to make money, just like the Bowling Center is/was. So, for all of you who did utilize it weekly or even monthly, my sincere condolences to you and of course the Mohr Family. As for the rest of you suck it up. Want to place blame!? Look in the mirror.
kscw says:
Way to go Jon – nicely stated regarding banks. If you are for the community you need to prove it. Same thing for the buyer – support
the community by investing in the bowling center or support the tourists by investing in another wings store
teedoff says:
Maybe if it was another GM or big bank
just sayin’
Russ Lay says:
John: If you read my comments, I also stated one reason I didn’t publish the bank’s name is that they cannot respond to questions we ask. It is public record. I don’t see the connection with Summerfield? We picked up two news feeds from out of town TV stations and one national feed. So what? I’ve seen every major news organization do that, including the three we picked up our story from. George Bailey? Really.
obxer longtime says:
So when do we find out whose offer the bank accepted and what their intentions are for the fate of the alley?
Russ please keep reporting on this story as more details come out. Don’t listen to that “Jon” person above…reporting on important community news is your job and you do it well. (I don’t get the Summerfield criticism either, wth??)
I am also a league bowler and I will surely miss this activity in my week, but I am still holding on to hope that the new buyer will be revealed, and that they will do what is right for the community. The business of the alley can be managed better and it can be a profitable venture. The Mohr’s are indeed lovely people but I have seen firsthand mismanagement of resources and revenues. It’s unfortunate, but I firmly believe it can be made profitable. I sure hope the new owner sees what we all see…that this beloved place can be a profitable business with improvements to the infrastructure and creating new revenue streams inside the alley.
keeping my fingers crossed for now…
junkman says:
So much for banks trying to lend locally and help out the local job creators. Its pure greed. If anyone doesn’t think the banks are out for themselves, here’s another example.
Monty montcalm says:
So which Bank was it that put the skrews to the place ??? Find out and boycott that bank. Twll then how unsatisfied with their ethics and move your money elsewhere… Typical GREEDT BASTARDS !!!!
Jon says:
Russ, Catherine Kozak’s article was from a newsfeed? This article?
http://outerbanksvoice.com/2012/09/24/murder-suspects-record-shows-pattern-of-violence/
Strange, the families posting comments on that article indicated they had been contacted directly and their requests not to publish their personal information which was unrelated to Summerfield’s case were not respected because the reporter claimed it was all public record.
The bank in question is public record, is it not? And here you choose not to publish it . . . out of professional courtesy from banker to banker? That is not journalism; at least it certainly shows a very inconsistent policy at OBV.
And yes, George Bailey. Everyone was willing to help him because he helped them. If a real-life banker chooses otherwise, so may the real-life townspeople. The free market works both directions.
Jon says:
Russ, I will add that you could be depriving the bank of good publicity. For example, maybe they might like to issue a statement like, “While we cannot comment on a borrower’s financial status due to privacy laws, we understand the importance of this business to the community and hope for a positive resolution for all parties involved.” I think as a journalist you have to ask for their comment and let them apply the banking laws.
Sam (Falstick) Evans says:
What a rip!
ed hendrix says:
Rupert Perry was/is a darn good bowler thx to his own efforts and the availability of a lane to hone his skills. Sorry to see these nice family oriented folks come upon these difficult times.
Russ Lay says:
No, not that one, but I am not sure how you found that “widely criticized”. We get 10,000 to 15,000 pageviews a day and there are maybe two dozen comments, many from the same folks. The article struck some nerves, but garnered no more negative comments than other stories we have covered.
Russ Lay says:
Jon: As a banker for over 30 years I absolutely know what the answer will be. I also know the local president of that bank. Banks will not comment on any of this, including who anyone is they are negotiating with prior to a foreclosure, if its a short sale, etc. If they foreclose than the bids will be public record.
gene seitz says:
I just heard about the bowling alley closing, and am sorry to hear it. This post is not intended to profit from others pain, but rather offer an alternative place for everyone who says there is nothing for kids to do. I am the owner of the newly opened King Tut’s Wiener Hut, our restaurant has a game room, we are getting into the birthday party business, and are always interested in fundraising opportunitites. We are in the Pirates Quay Shoppes. I invite you all to stop by sometime.
Rob Morris says:
Jon — Concerning the Kozak story, I was contacted after it was published. None of those mentioned in the story could be reached beforehand. Catherine talked to one of them only after I was contacted.
Russ’ story was about a bowling alley closing, not about banking policy. If it warrants a followup, we’ll take a look at it.
Meanwhile, if you have a concern about anything we’re doing, please feel free to contact me — 252-305-3861. I make the calls on what is posted — including comments.
Teri Mertz says:
The name of the bank is very important as citizens have the right to know which one’s are truly community oriented, or are just in it for the buck….people have the right to choose which bank they want, boy….lots of choices here on the OBX……
DoubleT says:
I don’t understand. I haven’t read every comment in full but a quick glance tells me the consensus is the closing of the NH Bowling Center is “awful”. Not sure about the loan issue but assuming the closing is, in part, due to lack of business (?) then why did it fail if everyone felt it was such an asset to the area? Why weren’t y’all supporting it?
Brian says:
I have been bowling in a league there for the last 5 years and have had many good times as not so good (bowling that is) but to think that there may be a chance for someone to tear the building down to build another Wings is absolutely absurd! There are two Wings within a quarter mile of this building. When are local officials going to get a backbone and start limiting business’s that already have over coverage from building the same ugly buildings? The tax revenue doesn’t change if they leave the building there. This community has nowhere for kids to go as it is, do we need to take one more thing away so they can find more drugs or alcohol. When is this community going to stand up against they’re communities from adding another useless business that buys 98% of it’s inventory from overseas! Wake up people!!
charles coppage says:
The hometown,”George Bailey” bank and savings and loan were destroyed in the greed of the early to mid-1980′s when the lending laws were loosened (and destroyed with the repeal of Glass-Stegel in the late 1990′s)Few,if any,meaningful decisions about loans,customers,etc are left to local bank employees. Also remember that many bank employees(especially in mortgages) are on “production” and are paid based on loans made and collected. This can militate against giving a customer a break, especially if there is substantial equity in the property. It is about this month’s or this quarter’s
“bottom-line” and not about trying to save anything.
I urge anyone with some time and interest to read one or more of these books:
It takes a Pillage, by Nomi Prins;
Greedy Bastards, by Dylan Ratigan
All the Devils are Here,by Bethany McLean All have pretty good background about some of the present problems in the financial system.(Which,by the way< is in GREAT shape overall)
OBXLocal says:
I am very upset by this. I am a local and must say growing up as a child here this place plus diamond shoals, dowdys, and the fun house all kept us kids out of trouble. The problem is that this place is no longer run by true locals but by people who have moved here and want the quaint charm of a city not a small town. And for the one that said that there are rude locals, think about this. During the winter we have to subsist on very little and during the summer we have to put up with “rude” tourist and tourist that seem to forget how to drive and push us off the road. There is very little full time work here, mostly its part time and mostly you have to wait for the foriegners to leave. I work 3 part time jobs as I cannot find one full time job. So take it from me living on $1400 a month until October then dropping to $1000 a month afterwards and paying $800 a month in rent which is the cheapest year round place you can hardly do it. I hate this island more and more. Its not worth it anymore and if I could afford to move trust me I would leave this place behind. I have many older local friends that I love dearly but I would vamoose if I had a chance.
JimH says:
To ol’ Mann:
Don’t forget about the Foosball Palace, which was another great spot for teenagers both young and old.
The loss of the bowling alley is just another piece in the puzzle that is the destruction of the Outer Banks of old. One of the first major pieces was the artificial real estate boom that started about a decade ago. Prices escalated through the roof as residential land became worth more than commercial land. During this time frame we lost a lot of great local businesses, which were replaced by chain restaurants and businesses. Most the local businesses that tried to compete with the chains were obliterated.
The construction boom brought in outsiders who would work for next to nothing as they were paid straight cash. As the boom changed to a bust we ended up being stuck with a community of foreclosed homes and an uptick in crime.
Each move takes us one step closer to becoming the next VA Beach. I just don’t know how many more junk shops we can handle.
obxer longtime says:
Once we find out for sure who has bought it and what their intentions are, perhaps it will be time to contact the Town of Nags Head directly in effort to appeal to them to not issue building permits for a needless, useless, unwanted business here (Im talking about the Wings possibility of course). Citizens unite!
Timothy says:
There is no emotion in finance. Business is just that…business. If you don’t pay your bills, the bank always wins. Circumstances change, and people lose their houses every day. If a business doesn’t pay its bills, they lose too.
Beach guy says:
Hmmm let me see ???? Sams club , we need another Walmart, or cvs, Oh I know a Bank !!!!!!! it is next to impossible to find a bank down here . Please dont shop at these places !!! Ask your bank if they are the one doing this next time u are in , make them start taking responsibilatey for their actions .
that girl says:
The gentleman that owns Wings, Isreal, also owns the mini golf at the north end of KDH — so, if he already has a “family amusement” business maybe he will allow the bowling alley to continue as a bowling alley. hopefully. with strong financial backing and an eye to the future maybe the existing business can be updated and continue to serve the community. I am sorry for kathys loss and can also vouch for her many years of hard work and dedication, she will be missed by many.
Lucy says:
Maybe another movie theatre since the one we have is going to be packed! Or better yet, a waterpark. There is nothing for our OBX kids to do .
Russell Lay says:
As Rob said, this story was about the closing of a bowling alley..an icon. And there is far too much speculating on the background of “how” and attempts to find villains.
Ownership” is a broad term and may or may not apply to all the assets utilized by a business. Speculating on the bank’s choices or on the plans of any prospective buyer is not helping. There is a court record of the fight over some aspects of the fate of this business and the bank may know more than we do.
OBXLocal says:
The article says “a commercial appraisal revealed the property was worth well more than twice the loan balance, but the bank refused to work with her after a year of discussions.” What’s to work out? Maybe I’m missing something. I don’t see how the new appraisal should make any difference on the original loan. The original loan doesn’t increase just because the appraisal was higher. What am I missing?
Involved in KDH says:
It isn’t always the bank or a big business which is a bad guy. The bowling alley rents the building which has gone through an ownership change. No one says the new owner has to sell to the current tenant or keep the business the same. I bet if the business case was truly that positive this article wouldn’t exist. I know I’m a proud Towne Bank customer – they have taken extremely good care of me and others and will continue to get my business.
Russell Lay says:
OBX Local-precisely! We ran the quote but as you stated, it doesn’t mean the loan could be worked out. Sometimes equity can be used to restructure debt, sometimes nothing can save a business . And sometimes it’s hard to unravel who is in control of an asset. That is why I have asked people not to speculate on the bank. We don’t know and will never know their side of the story. But most banks try to avoid these situations, so I operate under that assumption.
exiled OBXer says:
I graduated MHS in 1991 and well remember many a Friday or Saturday night spent hanging out at the bowling lley with friends during high school. It was such a social spot that it almost looked like a typical day in the lunchroom at MHS there on most weekend nights. Now it seems that concept will become a thing of the past.
If I were to bring a friend home to the beach with me who had never been here and was asked where I spent my weekend nights in high school I would have to point at a weed filled parking lot and explain what Dowdy’s was, I would have to show them some beach front condo’s and describe the Fooseball Palace to them, I would drive by an unremarkable piece of property on the beach road and point out where the old theater used to be where I first saw T2, Dick Tracy (for free no less) and Robocop 2. And now it sounds like I’m going to have to point to a Wings and tell them that this is where the Bowling Alley used to be too. Change is inevitable but none of “these” changes appear to be for the better in my humble eyes.
Denise says:
Its nice to see so many comments speaking of positive memories of this bowling alley. My question is….
IF THERE ARE SO MANY OF YOU WHO LOVE THIS PLACE WHY WER’RE MORE OF YOU SPENDING YOUR TIME AND MONEY THERE?!??!?!?
Russ Lay says:
Involved in KDH–thanks for “getting it”.
ConcernedCitizen says:
What would George Bailey do? Welp, we know what Potter would do, don’t we?
And we also know what the mantra is of a certain political party that doesn’t like government involvement don’t we? “Let them sink or swim!” If you are voting for “smaller government” and you’re also posting to this topic with some type of complaint about the bowling alley closing, then I think you need to take a long, hard look at your priorities before you pull that lever at the ballot box.
Think about it: the local Nags Head government (where the Bowling Alley falls under jurisdiction) would rather spend all their money on SAND than our youth, right?
yeah says:
Keep in mind that the banks are under strict regulations about how much loan exposure they have. Townebank was involved in taking over assets of a failed bank, so they have regulators looking over their shoulder. It’s hard to get a business loan right now. Many business loans come up for periodic renewal and sometimes they borrower just doesn’t qualify for the renewal. The system sucks.
As far as the possible new owner being an owner of several large chain stores, he likes to buy locations where one could put in a competing store. He may not put another store there, but if he owns it, he doesn’t have to rent to a direct competitor.
just sayin says:
As yet another small business closes its doors, the joy of living at the beach becomes less appealing. Small businesses can only hope they can get the funding that will allow them to wait out an economic downturn. This is reality for most small businesses in the Outer Banks. When only large corporate businesses (or banks) take over the Outer Banks, then it will not be THE place for me. And, if others feel the same way, they will eventually leave, and why not (no more floods, better job opportunity), other places have K-Marts, Wal-marts, and the like. Eventually, all that will be left will be empty oversized buildings (ie, Bank of Commonwealth, Kitty Hawk) who will abandon the beach when they realize that year around operations are tough and funding is needed to get through downturns. This is truly as SAD turn of events for the bowling alley…which businesses will be next?
HAPPY BARRACUDA says:
HOW MUCH OF DARE COUNTY DOES IG HOLDINGS OWN?
OR SHOULD I SHUT UP & STICK MY HEAD BACK UNDER THE WATER?
....... says:
It’s sad to see another family oriented business going under. Soon there will be nothing left but the everything is always on sale/50% off/no gimmicks tourist traps. Ugh.
Oh Wow says:
Someone please please please tell me that the rumors I heard that the building will be torn down and a WINGS will be built are NOT TRUE! :’(
Steelhead says:
Another sad day in the Outer Banks. This is getting to be an all to familiar situation lately around here. The banks seem all to eager to foreclose on businesses that have been around for many, many years. This same thing happened in KDH to Big Eye Seafood. Maybe the banks should work with the borrowers on a solution instead of just foreclosing. I guess the banks just want another national chain to take over the space.
The Banker says:
Business is Business. To blame it on the bank is short sighted at best. There is something in the new loan procedures, or possibly cash flow of the current operation that put the loan in the high risk catagory. I am sure the bank doesn’t hate bowling and wishes no ill will towards the community. They are in business to make money and they have their loan procedures to protect their investments, the investors, and their customers. Don’t villianize the bank because they are in business to make money.
obxpatriot says:
Kevin…..its “the LOVE of money is the root of all evil”, putting money before Godliness or making it an idol. Money in itself is not evil, how would you eat, put a roof over your head, clothe youself etc. without it? Please don’t leave those first 3 words out, it makes a huge difference in the meaning.
Henry says:
It seems to me that all the banks that got bailed out cant help. The bowilling ally has allways been a comuity garthering place and has volitiered to help the comiuty in any way it can. It has gone thro some hard times and still keeps comitments.It not right for it to go I would like to see just one of the 5 banks ( one now being built)
By Wal-Mart go a way.We only have 1 and only 1 at the outerbanks and how many banks. they need to help keep the bowlingally its a land mark with history to a lot of locals. I undestand that banks are in buissness to make money but some times they need to step up to the plate and if one dose it will defenly get my bisness.
My best to Linda and all the great enployies my prayer are with you all
jcbeach says:
What a SAD day for the locals and visitors alike! It’s especially sad for the Special Olympics athletes….they come from Dare AND Currituck Counties – no where to go for bowling now. The Mohr’s have been wonderful to our “special” people!
The only thing left for families is putt-putt and the movies. Of course, NO ONE can AFFORD the movies around here, so that’s out too! SAD, SAD, SAD.
T & Ken Smith says:
Save the Nags Head Bowling Alley!!!!! This place is one of the most important place on the OuterBanks. Its a place were families can have a good time, where you can have your children birthday parties. Christmas, New Years parties. Where friends meets and compete for fun. This place is where I met my husband and his family. Nags Head Bowling Alley holds so many memories, bowling team families, that to lose a place that we all can meet and have safe fun is just not right. It’s so sad. I still have hope that we will one day be back to bowling with all our bowling friends and family. Please remember on the OuerBanks we have no place to go excepts bars where you can’t take your children. We got to think about our younger generation. They need a safe and drug free place to go.
THAT parent says:
I would have loved to known about this problem sooner…our community may have been able to come together to support this business. While I was not able to go there every week or even monthly, our family counted this activity in the affordable family entertainment category. We’ve also been to the “family” minigolf place referred to in previous comments, which is definately NOT affordable for families like mine-I doubt we ever go back to that place.
In reference to the release of the bank’s name, I do feel that the reporter should have gathered that information and it would be pertinent to divulge that information to the public. Your job as a news source is to present relevant information. If a bank decides to foreclose on a popular property, they should have taken the possiblity of negative publicity into consideration before deciding to follow through. A thorough reporter would still contact the bank, who could be given the opportunity to say “no comment”or whatever sounded good to them and the reporter could have educated his readers about the inability of the bank to release information legally.
This sounds like the reporter is refraining from mentioning the bank name in order to protect his friend. Where is the impartiality in reporting? Would the reporter have done the same for any other bank or business?
Bob Waddington says:
This brings back many sad memories for me. I owned 4 lanes on Fishers Island, N.Y. many years ago. They were repossed by Brunswick. The people on the island were very sad indead. The community got together and raised money so that they opened again. Why don’t Nags Head Town do something? it certainly would be a benefit for all. I am sure there is enough tax revnue with all the tax property they have.
obxcarl says:
My wife and I loved going there. I have had many good times there. I hope something changes so that it can stay open.
charlie says:
Geee….Silence from an unnamed but guessed at bank…..At the least they could put out some kind of press release which would help clarify the situation. As it stands now, every comment about a bank’s lack of community involvement smacks true. In the court of public opinion they are guilty and this court can take its money out of that bank.
jonathan brown says:
I will praise and bowl
Harriet Brooks says:
Sorry to hear about what has happened with the Bowling Center and their wonderful owners who rarely thought of themselves, their interests were with the community of Dare. In checking with the online tax info, supplied by Dare County, YES THE NEW OWNER IS ISRAEL GOLASA, AKA WINGS SUPER DYNASTY!!!
Taylor says:
I am so happy the new owner is going to reopen the bowling alley I am so excited!:)