Do you remember the old bowling alley? We sure do, and we'd love to hear your story! Send us an email and be sure to let us know if we have your permission to share it here on the website.
Here's one from Debbie Sandefur of J.A. Sandefur Construction:
"This is wonderful news about the possibility of a family atmosphere recreation and eatery in the heart of the Ojai valley. The second I read your article in the Ojai Valley News I couldn't stop smiling. My husband and I were born and raised here in the Ojai Valley and also raised 4 boys and half the neighborhood at the infamous Ojai Lanes. What fun!!! The stories we could tell along with my many friends that still reside here, saving my babysitting money to take the many long walks from our homes out to the other side of town to spend a hot summer day in a COOL place amongst friends, getting paid a buck to keep score for our parents on the Friday Night League, listening to the music coming from behind doors that at that time we were not allowed in, and the burgers, fries, and shakes... heaven! I'm again smiling as I write to you of my memories growing up in a village that didn't have a lot for kids to do... yet we always found comfort and companionship at the lanes. We praise you for your effort in getting this dream off the ground and someday into the hearts of our grandchildren. Should we be able to help you in anyway, please contact us. Again, thank you for placing a quick smile on our faces.
Jim & Debbie Sandefur
J.A. Sandefur Construction
And another story from Cindy and David Garber:
"What a wonderful thing....bringing back the bowling alley, restaurant, bar, etc.....and creating a fun center for all ages.
Although I didn't bowl much growing up, it was a fun place to go see friends and eat. As Debbie Sandefur wrote, I also remember hearing the great music and conversations coming from that dark, smoke-filled bar. I couldn't wait to turn 21 and venture into that room!
When I was pregnant with my second daughter in 1984, I C-R-A-V-E-D the Ojai bowling alley hamburgers! My husband was there many times a week, late at night picking up my hamburger...... Luckily the, 'Alley' was open late!
The new bowling alley sounds like it will be wonderful, with more variety of activities. Thank you so much for giving Ojai a wonderful place to play, eat, and hopefully dance! "
Gratefully,
Cindy and David Garber
"How happy we were to read your story in the OVN! I lived in Ojai from 1978 until 1992 and used to bowl in a mixed league called the “In Betweens” at the Ojai Bowling Alley. It was such fun and the camaraderie with all of the Ojai bowlers made for a great night out. We have returned to Ojai to visit many times over the years and we were so disappointed to see that the bowling alley had closed and the property had fallen into such ugliness.
We are finally moving back to Ojai in June and are delighted to see that this property is going to look even better than it did before. Good for you and thanks from us! We wish that other investors/developers would invigorate some of the other deserted/poorly maintained properties along Ojai Avenue.
Count us as customers in 2010."
Best Regards,
Brenda and Angelo Spandrio
" I’ve been meaning to write for sometime but life gets busy as you know. It’s great to hear about the possibility of the bowling alley reopening! I used to bowl there for years when I was younger – I even won the California State Bowling Championship with my Ojai team in Sacramento one year!! And the café was always my late father’s favorite restaurant – he and all the other contractors always hung out there! So many great memories in so many ways!
One thing I wanted to mention – somehow it would be great to incorporate some games/toys for kids under 5. There’s a real lack of things to do in this town for families with young children. I’d love to see something in town for that age group!
Thanks again and please let me know if there’s anything I can do to help in any way!"
Best,
Christa
