BY PAUL MITCHELL
North Country This Week

POTSDAM – A former Potsdam resident and a childhood regular at the Market Lanes has established a GoFundMe account to help him purchase the bowling alley property.

Dallas Brown, currently stationed in Georgia in the U.S. Army, is looking to raise $60,000 to be used as a downpayment for Market Lanes, which has a current asking price of $525,000.

“I grew up in Potsdam, New York my whole life. I spent the first 18 years of my life at Market Lanes, literally. Many of you will remember me running around the bowling, getting stuffed in the locker by my older sister, and eventually working there. At the age of 18, I left home to join the world's greatest Army,” said Brown in an email to North Country This Week.

“As my time dwindles down I have thought long and hard about what I want to do when I get out. I have debated reenlisting or contracting but this week coming home made me realize the community wants bowling back. Everyone has been questioning why I haven’t bought the bowling alley. Well, I have thought long and hard about it, so I have decided to begin the process of purchasing Market Lanes Bowling Alley,” said Brown.

Brown said he has been in constant contact with Small Business Administration approved companies who are interested in supporting this adventure.

“Owning the bowling alley in Potsdam has always been a dream of mine and the time has finally come. With less than a year in the Army remaining, now is my chance to bring back Market Lanes for our community,” Brown remarked.

The late Tom Kiereck had owned Market Lane since 2005.

“Tom, who most of us knew and adored, is beaming down on us from heaven hoping someone keeps his dream alive. I believe I am the one who can do this! I had the chance to tour the bowling alley before heading back to Georgia and it sealed the deal. This is what I want to do when I return from the Army,” said Brown.

Now for the big question, why do I need $60,000, said Brown.

“The requested $60,000 is what most SBA companies are requesting as a “down payment” before they fork up the remaining funds. The bowling alley is a big investment and if we can get over $60,000 then the chance of making this a reality will forever inch closer. With the community's support and help I believe we can bring back the bowling alley within the next 9-14 months,” he noted.

Brown said if the goal is not reached, all donations will be returned.

Anyone wishing to donate and remain anonymous or choose to donate without GoFundMe taking any funds you can email dallasbrown210@gmail.com for other payment options.

If you choose the GoFundMe route, here is the link: https://gofund.me/141472d4