Bowling At "The Alley" For Jimmy V

Since it's glory days, Hillsborough Street has seen a steady decline in business and foot traffic from NC State Students. Maybe it's the lack of parking, or the lack of visual appeal that has people flocking elsewhere for fun on a Friday night, or maybe it's jut that there is nowhere fun to go anymore. That is about to change. With Hillsborough Street undergoing a massive reconstruction process (creating round-a-bouts and putting all the power line and telephone lines underground) it is also getting what is about to be the hippest new spot on the old road. In case you weren't aware,the old landmark, Western Lanes, was bought by Jimmy and Katie Poole who are in the process of renovating the lanes into a hopping "Bowling Bar", a concept which is sweeping the country (think Lucky Strike Lanes, with a sports bar twist). They've re-named it "The Alley" and we think this is a perfect idea, and is just the type of place that could help bring Hillsborough Street back to life.

Although the renovation is not yet complete, this past Thursday, "The Alley" put on a "Jimmy V: Bowl for Cancer Research Fundraiser" with all proceedes going to The V Foundation. The Poole's have a good relationship with NC State and a few tie-ins with the basketball program, giving them the opportunity to throw this celebrity-studded event.
Hosted by Chris Corchiani and Levi Watkins, many past NC State Basketball players were on hand to help support the V Foundation. Will Roach, Josh Powell and Courtney Fells all showed up and bowled for the cause. Tickets were $50, and included food, drinks and a spot in the bowling tournament and ALL the money was given to the V Foundation.

Team Corchiani finished 3rd with a combined score of 512, while Will Roach wow'd the crowd on his was to a better than pedestrian, 184. Over 200 people came out to support the V Foundation and get their first taste of "The Alley," which was a good turn out. We'd like to thank the Poole's for all their cooperation and we'd like to encourage you to take a night and check out "The Alley."

Although the renovations of the old Western Lanes may take some time, the vision for the place is outstanding. They have added flat screen TV's to every lane and put up a fresh coat of paint that makes the lanes really pop. Next up is the renovation of the old snack area, which has plans to become a real time sports bar. And word is, there might be plans to bring electronical scoring to "The Alley," a much debated topic during the Western Lane days, but surely better for business. So next time you're looking to bowl, check out "The Alley" and help support a business that supports the Wolfpack!!