New Owner Is Excited At Prospect Of Reopening Holbrook’s Bowling Alley

By Tammy Gray-Searles
   “I’m just as excited as everybody else,” said Kelly Oby of his plans to open the former P&M Lanes bowling alley in Holbrook.
   Oby, along with his wife Rose, hopes to have the bowling alley open by Nov. 1, but explained that the date is very tentative and will depend on incorporation paperwork, and how long it takes to clean and repair the facility.
   “We’re working on it,” he said. “I’d like to have it by November first, but it might be the 15th.”
   The alley’s new owner explained that he is in the process of creating a limited liability corporation for the operation, and won’t open until that process is complete. Due to state budget cuts, processing of paperwork by the Arizona Corporation Commission is expected to slow significantly and could delay the opening of the bowling alley.
   Oby is also working to obtain a liquor license and repair the aged equipment.
   “We’re excited, but the equipment is old. We have to get it cleaned up and do things like painting and roof repair at least,” he said. “We’ll see how it goes. Maybe we’ll open for New Year’s.”
   Although he noted that at first the bowling alley will simply be cleaned and repaired for opening, he hopes to gradually make improvements. Future plans, if all goes well, include additional video games, upgrades to the dining area, and the creation of a special party or banquet room in the empty area adjacent to the lanes. Oby explained that the room could be used for dining, dancing and entertainment.
   “Our plans depend on the support we get,” he said. “I’d like to put money back into it so it can slowly be upgraded. I want to create a pleasant family atmosphere.”
   So far, Oby noted that community members have been very supportive of his plan.
   “I’ve never met such a happy, welcoming town,” he said. “Everybody wants to help.”
   According to Oby, the Chamber of Commerce has been offering assistance, even with fixing up the building, to try to get the lanes re-opened.
   Although he does not have previous experience managing or owning a bowling alley, Oby explained that he spent 20 years as a general manager at Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley and is the owner of Vernon Realty.
   “I haven’t been in the bowling business, but I know how to run a business,” he said. “I’m excited to be a member of Holbrook.”