Hilander Bowl files for bankruptcy again
Monday, September 22, 2008 11:36 PM PDT
By Erik Olson
eolson@tdn.com
Printable version
E-mail this articleKelso's Hilander Bowl is again fighting for its life, filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection to ward off a state attempt to collect $340,000 in back taxes, according to court documents.
The state recently tried to revoke a $100,000 bond Hilander owner Jim Springer put up in in March as a guarantee he would pay the delinquent taxes. The bond allowed Springer to reopen after the state shut the business down for five days.
Springer filed the petition for bankruptcy protection on Sept. 5.
It's the second time in two years the Hilander has filed for Chapter 11 in federal bankruptcy court. If granted, Chapter 11 bankruptcy allows businesses to remain open by keeping creditors at bay.
"It's part of the protections that will be keeping us viable as a business," Springer said Monday.
However, state revenue officials saw the move as an attempt to block their efforts to collect the taxes. Using unusually sharp language, a state attorney called for the court to reject Springer's bankruptcy request and leave the Hilander vulnerable to closure by the state.
"To call the case a fiasco would not be an exaggeration," Washington Assistant Attorney General Zachary Mosner wrote in a Sept. 16 motion.
The revocation of Springer's bond is on hold as long as the Hilander remains under bankruptcy protection. A hearing to dismiss the bankruptcy filing is scheduled for Nov. 5 in Tacoma, but it could come earlier, according to the state.
The Hilander first filed for bankruptcy in July of 2007 to protect itself from 52 creditors owed more than $5 million. A federal bankruptcy court judge revoked the bankruptcy protection in February, which led to the five-day closure of the business in March.
Since then, Springer has made progress on reducing the debt, according to court documents. The Hilander owes $1.75 million in debt to 45 creditors, according to court documents.
Sale by foreclosure of the Hilander¹s former home at 1509 Allen St. was a big part of clearing the debt, according to Springer.
However, the Hilander still owes more than $385,000 to the Department of Revenue. Springer said he has kept up on his payments, but he argued to the court that his bank impropertly took more than $45,000 from the Hilander¹s account to pay off old debt, according to court documents.
The Hilander also owes the state Employment Security Department about $160,000 and the state Department of Labor & Industries more than $63,000, according to Mosner, the assistant attorney general. The IRS is also owed about $640,000, dating back to the first bankruptcy filing, Mosner stated.
The state tries to work with businesses before shutting them down for falling behind on taxes, said Mike Gowrylow, spokesman for the Department of Revenue. However, if the payment plan isn't followed, the state must act to protect the taxes owed to the state, he said.
Springer said the state and federal government have not given him the time to put together a plan to get the Hilander back on its feet. Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection was the only option he had to prevent the Hilander from closing, which would hurt creditors, the 60 employees and the community as a whole, he said.
"Now, more than ever, we need community support to get through this bump in the road," Springer said.
eastereverywhere wrote on Sep 23, 2008 7:07 AM:
" Our government reps. will move heaven and earth to protect "White "Collar" thieves and embezzlers on Wall St. Where is the protection for those of us who WORK? Where is the protection for citizens who risk all to provide good jobs, locally? This economy is a direct result of the Free-Range Capitalistic Policies of Bush and Cheney. As President Cheech and Vice President Chong move to protect their friends on Wall St., remember, there are good people all over this country who pay their bills, provide jobs and deserve protection, too. God Help us to survive the end of this criminal Bush Regime. "
who am I? wrote on Sep 23, 2008 7:19 AM:
" I love the hilander but he has had YEARS to work on his budget and make this work. how long is the city supposed to put up with someone not paying. YES, it says he's paid the current ones, but he owes a LOT of back taxes. he shouldn't get out of paying that. either he comes up with a plan and sticks to it to get it paid and business goes (hopefully not as usual, because that's how he got in this mess) or he closes it down and moves on.
I hope they can make it work. as I said, I like the restaurant but he needs to pay his taxes...ALL of them. he shouldn't have let it get that far behind before he started working with the city to come up with a plan in the first place. (IMO). he waited until they came after him to try and pay the back stuff. "
I hope they can make it work. as I said, I like the restaurant but he needs to pay his taxes...ALL of them. he shouldn't have let it get that far behind before he started working with the city to come up with a plan in the first place. (IMO). he waited until they came after him to try and pay the back stuff. "
Kelso Resident wrote on Sep 23, 2008 7:24 AM:
" I'm sorry but I think Jim shoul call it quits. His business just didnt work out. "
Jack Squat wrote on Sep 23, 2008 7:24 AM:
" He always has an excuse. Maybe he simply is a poor business person...that would be a novel thought, huh? It's time to hang the "Sorry, We're Closed" sign, lock the doors for good and move on. I'm sorry for his employees, but they are stuck in a bad situation and would be better off if they were forced to move on. "
Beavis Carries a .45 wrote on Sep 23, 2008 7:39 AM:
" How many chances is Springer going to get? How many chances do you think you or I would get? Yeah. That's what I thought. Something's wrong here. "
lucky1 wrote on Sep 23, 2008 7:53 AM:
" I have not gone there since the first article. It just sounds like he's using the system and getting away with it and I cant support that. I cant beleive that people were having car washes trying to help him out. Heck he's only helping himself. Some of that debt is taxes he's collected and not paid in. So did he just keep it/use it to fund his business? "
Lucky7 wrote on Sep 23, 2008 7:56 AM:
" Jim seems like a good guy, his business is an asset to the community. I hope it works out for him but I'm afraid we're about to see many businesses small and large begin to fail. "
AmericanGirl wrote on Sep 23, 2008 8:04 AM:
" How many times can you file bankruptcy is it a double standard for business owners? "
castle rocker wrote on Sep 23, 2008 8:08 AM:
" It's obvious the business model just does not work. It's time to shut him down and see what another new business can accomplish in that space. "
who am I? wrote on Sep 23, 2008 8:11 AM:
" uh, I finally agree with Beavis on somethin' :p .
I think most of us would have been forced to deal with this issue a LONG time ago and if we couldn't we'd be done whether we wanted to be or not. "
I think most of us would have been forced to deal with this issue a LONG time ago and if we couldn't we'd be done whether we wanted to be or not. "
ucrackmeup wrote on Sep 23, 2008 8:16 AM:
" This is the only place in Kelso that kids can go and hang out, you take that away and there is nothing in Kelso for them. As a community, we should support Jim for trying to give these kids a place. "
harley2404 wrote on Sep 23, 2008 8:27 AM:
" Please how does his staying open help the community he doesnt pay his taxes and it is the tax dollars that help the community how does his staying open help his creditors he doesnt pay them either. Close him down and dont let him open a business he is a poor business man "
Duck Fan wrote on Sep 23, 2008 8:47 AM:
" To ucrackmeup: if it is the only place kids can go in Kelso to hang out, that is really sad. Maybe more parents should get involved with their kids instead of expecting businesses to provide their "hang out." "
country gal wrote on Sep 23, 2008 8:48 AM:
" Just out of curiosity, out of $385,000 he owed to Dept of Revenue and $640,000 to the IRS, how much does he really owe and how much of that is penalties and fines? "
Pinky wrote on Sep 23, 2008 8:56 AM:
" To: American girl the first time he filed in 2007, it was rejected, that is why he is trying to file again. I personally love the hilander, and would hate to see it close. If that means someone else takes it over that would be fine. I like Jim, and he always treats the customers great! Really I have been to bowling alleyys in Portland, that look shotty compared to the hilander, I think it is one of the best bowling alleys for miles around... How sad.... "
Mr. Bastinado wrote on Sep 23, 2008 9:06 AM:
" I feel sorry for the employees that'll now have to rely on the same public agencies that have been cheated by Springer to the tune of +/- 1.25 mil. I'm sure I'm in the majority of folks that would've loved to see this business succeed and bring decent jobs to the community and get Springer filthy rich, but it just didn't turn out that way. Time to pay the fiddler. "
justice4all wrote on Sep 23, 2008 9:10 AM:
" Springer is no help to the community if patrons are paying the taxes and he is funneling the money somewhere else. What he doesn't pay in taxes gets put back on the other local businesses and citizens in the form of high taxes next year and fewer services. If tax money is going to be used to support a place for local kids to hang out then call it a community center, run it with city employees and quit charging so much that the majority of local families can't afford to go. It would be interesting to know how he is doing with his personal finances. I am willing to bet he is not behind on his personal property tax bill or mortgage. Maybe if he wants local support he should release financial documents that show he has sacrificed personally to keep his business afloat. What has he been paying himself and family members as employees? We know most "regular" folks working there are paid minimum wage & he takes out their share of payroll taxes due. Come on Springer, before you come back to the citizens asking for help, show us how much you have tried to help yourself. Maybe the probelm is he has helped himself to too much$$$. "
DS wrote on Sep 23, 2008 9:10 AM:
" Reduced debt from $5 million to $1.75 million since July 2007. Sounds as if he is making very good progress to me. If this is true I would expect everyone to get paid in time. If he stays open. I wonder how many will get paid if he closes for good. Think about that before you pass judgement. "
JustMyOpinion wrote on Sep 23, 2008 9:15 AM:
" Community effort? It's YOUR business. Pay your taxes, fella. "
jazzie wrote on Sep 23, 2008 9:41 AM:
" I dont think politics has anything to do with any of this. Jim got greedy, built this big center and then didnt pay the bills, Case closed! We all have to pay the bills,Mr Springer is no diff. Sorry, Say Goodbye, and move on. "
arr0914 wrote on Sep 23, 2008 9:47 AM:
" My family really enjoyed going to the hilander and we went quite often. The last time we went one of the games took my kids' money and did not work. My husband went to one of the young guys that was working there and told him that it took our money. The young guy look at it and told us he did not have the key and told us that we were SOL. My husband went up to Springer and told him what the guy said and that we had thought that it was rude. Springer went and talked to the young man and came back and told us that he did not say that. We will never go back because he believed a teenager over two adults. I hope he looses his business. I always thought that the customer is always right!! "
Kelso Resident wrote on Sep 23, 2008 10:01 AM:
" I agree with Duck Fan is it too hard for the parents of today to watch their own kids? My mother kept a eye on me in the 80's and 90's till I became a adult. Another useless place that needs to close In my opinion is Chuck E Cheese, I've never seen that place busy, I can't belief that the mall got rid of a great restaurant (JJ North's) for this failure. "
cuz wrote on Sep 23, 2008 10:07 AM:
" Pretty bad when your employees are racing to the bank to cash their checks before the money is gone. I feel sorry for them. Jim, time to jump on the next plane to Vegas and put it all on black. "
Old Bag wrote on Sep 23, 2008 10:20 AM:
" When I saw all of the signs telling people that if they patronized a business they could bowl for free at the Highlander I decided I didn't want to go back. They were all surrounding the Triangle Bowl. Remember when Springer said they would never make it? Looks like he's trying hard to see that happen. What goes around comes around. "
1 kelso mom wrote on Sep 23, 2008 10:23 AM:
" Mr. Springer I think you are a great guy, but I believe it is time to hang it up. You gave it your best shot and everyone appreciated everything that you did for the community. God Bless you and yours. "
longview citizen wrote on Sep 23, 2008 10:39 AM:
" To arr0914 The whole problem with folks in this area is that they believe as you do. No the customer is not always right. Sometimes it is a communication gap. Young folks today are somewhat abrupt with there comments and that is because parents have not taught them respect and manners. I worked at one point for a credit card bank that handled eddie bauer, spiegel, ebony and several other cards, they would have surveys of employee's just for info and one question asked was where do you feel the rudest customer calls are from Longview was ALWAYS in the top 3!!! Flushing New York was usually #1. That does not say much for Longview. I really think customers need to stop and realize that you reap what you sow. "
tazer baby wrote on Sep 23, 2008 10:49 AM:
" Wow. That has got to sting a little for all the people that actually gave money to this dude last time the Hilander was in trouble. Blaming Bush is futile, this is a mishandled business and is not a result of politicians either county, state or nationally. "
the Grateful Dad wrote on Sep 23, 2008 12:18 PM:
" This would be a GREAT location for Pietro's to set up shop! Imagine if the Hilander changed hands and became, "Pietro's Hilander Family Fun Center"! How cool would that be?!? Pietro's could serve up their world-class pizzas, keep the games, arcade, and laser-tag, keep the bowling alley, and make a real go of it! I like the sound of that! Mr. Springer should look into either selling to, or partnering with, Pietro's. "PIETRO'S HILANDER FAMILY FUN CENTER" Now THAT'S worth looking into! "
castle rocker wrote on Sep 23, 2008 12:44 PM:
" DS That reduction in debt, as stated in the article, is do mostly due to the sale of the old Hilander building by foreclosure. That's the difference in debt, he lost the other building and no longer has that debt. So how does that show that he is making any kind of judgement at all. "
DUH wrote on Sep 23, 2008 12:47 PM:
" Awesome idea Grateful Dad but, leave Mr. Springer out of any kind of partnership. We've all seen what his business sense ended up getting him. "
rastor wrote on Sep 23, 2008 1:26 PM:
" At least he isn't asking for a bailout, just a hey....wait a minute here! "
lucky1 wrote on Sep 23, 2008 1:40 PM:
" Grateful Dad: I think you have an awesome idea too. If they could improve the customer service there it would probably do better. "
LongviewFam wrote on Sep 23, 2008 1:50 PM:
" The building was great, the location stinks. There was always people hanging out in front for the Greyhound that made us nervous. Last time (2 months) ago, we dropped nearly $100 between bowling and games for 8 kids and found the EXACT situation with the teen employees when several our guests lost money. They acted like they didn't care. I also approached the manager and received a half-hearted apology from her instead of the teen. As far as the only place for Kelso kids to go, I didn't see that when we were there on weekends. It's like a ghost town. Maybe an off night?... "
cheney119 wrote on Sep 23, 2008 2:15 PM:
" Moving out of a perfectly adequate building to the old Safeway building was the dumbest damn thing I have ever seen in 40 years of this areas business history. Springer took a excellent business and turned it into a gold plated boondoggle. How's the cost benefit analysis on the marry go round working out? What were you thinking? "
Kelso Grandma wrote on Sep 23, 2008 2:24 PM:
" Jim wants the community to get behind him and support him?! Give me a break! We HAVE supported him and he is not doing his part by rendering to Caesar what is Caesar's! Please, Jim, just hang your hat up and go home! "
ucrackmeup wrote on Sep 23, 2008 2:51 PM:
" Mr. Duck Fan: You are absolutely right on both items, it is sad that this is the only place in Kelso to go hang out and if parents did get more involved with their children that would be great.But there does need a place to go for kids nontheless.We all hung out somewhere when we were teens and it is better to do it at the Highlander than out drinking and driving "
DS wrote on Sep 23, 2008 3:02 PM:
" Why does it seem everyone on this blog wants Springer to fail? Can anyone tell me who benefits if he fails and who gets hurt if he succeeds? "
tazer baby wrote on Sep 23, 2008 3:05 PM:
" Hey everybody, how about a carwash or some other fundraiser. C'mon, give the guy a chance. I bet someone will do it. "
skeezix wrote on Sep 23, 2008 3:23 PM:
" Excellent idea tazer baby....a car wash...let's see, $5 a car would mean 350,000 cars. The question remains, would Mr. Springer be liable for the water bill or would that ultimately be passed on to us. Now, a bake sale might actually work. "
country gal wrote on Sep 23, 2008 3:37 PM:
" DS: I kind of feel the same way as you do. It seems to me the only thing that the bloggers thinks is he owes all that money to the Dept of Revenue and the IRS. And I know from experience that these outfits are not exactly KIND! So, I'm wondering just exactly without the fines and penalties that the IRS and the Dept of Revenue OVERINDULGED him with in so much amount of time, does he actually owe. "
cooky wrote on Sep 23, 2008 4:00 PM:
" I haven't been there since the last time this happened. I for one think he's had enough chances to try to pull it out. Time to cut the loss & move on "
Past Chinook wrote on Sep 23, 2008 4:22 PM:
" We have stood behind him in the past, and I do believe that it is time to give up. The Hilander is WAY too expensive for an everyday family to be able to afford for one night of fun. If he wants support, he needs to make it a place that is fun and affordable for the community. I realize the overhead must be incredible, but all of that should've been taken into consideration in the beginning. It was a long shot from the start. "
who am I? wrote on Sep 23, 2008 5:46 PM:
" I don't WANT him to fail, but I don't think he should get extra special treatment either. the last few times I was there picking up pizza things were broke down in the play areas, there was hardly anyone in there.
I won't fault the government for expecting him to pay, and yes there are fines and fees for failing to do so. he SHOULD have worked with them LONG before they came after him. IF he had done that he wouldn't have as many fees, maybe.
I am sick of hearing "but there isn't anything else for our kids to do" bologna. my kids never go there and they find things to do without getting in trouble. I grew up here, there is just as much to do now then there was back then in the 80's. we didn't go out and get in trouble and then say it's not our fault because the city doesn't entertain us.
and I've lived in bigger cities too. guess what, after a short time we ended up doing EXACTLY the same things we did here in this little town most of the time. "
I won't fault the government for expecting him to pay, and yes there are fines and fees for failing to do so. he SHOULD have worked with them LONG before they came after him. IF he had done that he wouldn't have as many fees, maybe.
I am sick of hearing "but there isn't anything else for our kids to do" bologna. my kids never go there and they find things to do without getting in trouble. I grew up here, there is just as much to do now then there was back then in the 80's. we didn't go out and get in trouble and then say it's not our fault because the city doesn't entertain us.
and I've lived in bigger cities too. guess what, after a short time we ended up doing EXACTLY the same things we did here in this little town most of the time. "
missymae wrote on Sep 23, 2008 6:58 PM:
" I think It's time to clean out his bank account I'm sure he's got enough to pay everything off and then some I mean after all he stated awhile back that he pays himself 12,000 a month hell I wished I could pay myself that much a month I would be living high on the hog let them close him down so then triangle can get more of his business they deserve It. GO TRIANGLE BOWL "
FiscalConservative wrote on Sep 23, 2008 9:30 PM:
" for all of those who have not had the opportunity to own your own business, try it. It isn't easy. I know, we are having a hard time now... Oh, I guess working for someone is the way to go? Have you ever LOOKED at what your employer has to pay on you FEDERALLY, as well as to the State. Don't make judgement on someone until you try it yourselves. At least some of us have taken a chance to make a difference in our lives. I employ 21 great people. I come to work everyday trying my best to keep the doors open. Increased taxes, increasing utilities, escalating fuel... Try it yourself, then see if you make the same negative comments. "
northender wrote on Sep 23, 2008 9:59 PM:
" An ex Democrat State rep... It looks as if Carter and Clinton must have went to the same school of economics!! Barney Frank , Chuck Shumer and Criss Dodd must have taken a few classes in tne Springer Tax fraud school also!! "
bozo wrote on Sep 23, 2008 10:12 PM:
" Cheney 119 by far has the best comment thus far. How's the cost benefit analysis on the marry go round working out? What were you thinking? " "
yowza wrote on Sep 23, 2008 11:44 PM:
" To FiscalConservative. I, too, am a business owner employing over 30. I don't think any of these negative comments have anything to do with "how hard it is to run a business". It's about someone who doesn't pay his dues and wants everyone to feel sorry for him and bail him out. Give us a break !! Of course it's not easy running a business. But, you better make damn sure you know how to run one before opening the doors !! Simply put !! Now, perhaps if Mr. Springer wants to operate a nonprofit organization, giving his profits to the community, well I guess then I would be willing to sponsor his carwash !! Until that happens....no way. Close the doors!! "
lolainlongview wrote on Sep 24, 2008 12:59 AM:
" Since when is it the responsibility of the businesses in the community to entertain our children? If your children have nothimg else to do then hang out at the hilander then I feel sorry for them. Maybe as a parent you should introduce them to books and the outdoors and family game nights etc....
As for the Hilander, why does Jim think the community wants to support him now. Everyone gave him the second chance he begged for and he didn't make it work. This business is just not one that is going to survive. I haven't been there since the last time he was in trouble. I can handle a little over pricing but I will not be treated rudly by employees of any business and go back. Customer service is really lacking, but on the other hand if I was employed there I probably wouldn't be in such a great mood either, when you have no idea if the your job will be there the next day or not. GOODBYE Jim pay your taxes next time. "
As for the Hilander, why does Jim think the community wants to support him now. Everyone gave him the second chance he begged for and he didn't make it work. This business is just not one that is going to survive. I haven't been there since the last time he was in trouble. I can handle a little over pricing but I will not be treated rudly by employees of any business and go back. Customer service is really lacking, but on the other hand if I was employed there I probably wouldn't be in such a great mood either, when you have no idea if the your job will be there the next day or not. GOODBYE Jim pay your taxes next time. "
press wrote on Sep 24, 2008 1:55 AM:
" oh my goodness i have had my fill of reading ths so called "3rd world Crab Mentality!" oh' its so better to knock a man down wn he is alrdy down! People these days are so negative and shoot off they're mouths abt thngs they have nvr experienced doing themselves. Tax sharks are out there and many private business owners are jst scraping by these days. Cost of fuds, fuels, and extortionist are agnst private owners. Im stll steamed abt one case that was an out and out lie agnst a business and the witness's were nvr called to court. Ths woman who sues businesses for liable has a record of extorting many local area business's. People thnk they can make an easy buck of of business owner's, people thnk busines owners are rich! Private local owners in d area of Cowlitz struggle. People like to go to casino's, go to Portland and Seattle to get away and wn they do that they take away frm supporting the local community. I know that many businesess get hit up for sponsoring ur kids sports teams, and sponsoring other events. Wn a business employees piple who are paying into wellfare its up to the restuarant to also deduct that employees check to pay d wellfare instd of that employee being responsible for hs own slf. Business owners do more then you even know. Sum local businesses are family owned only a few and they r not swimming in dollars. They pay taxxes, they treat they're employees and customers great! Maybe the world wth becomming as tech savvy as it has has forgotten how to take the time to be undrstanding and how to encourage instd of discourage. Its btr to hlp people and you feel better that you did. Springer's are nice but i agree they let it get way out of hand being nice and cute does not cut a rug wn it comes to payment. I cld ramble on but look where crab mentality has gotten 3rd world countries? Get my point! "
DS wrote on Sep 24, 2008 6:25 AM:
" Many folks have recovered after banktruptcy. I don't know if Springer will or not, but if he is forced out many will not get paid. The reduction in debt, even if it was because of forclosure on the old building, will improve his cash flow do to less intrest on outstanding debt. This will make it more feasible to payoff back taxes. I would not write off the Hilander yet. Yes you should pay your taxes, but it may have been that the serviceing the large debt left no money to pay all of them. To those who say he should have paid his taxes first, do you know how long it will be before the bank takes your house if you don't make your payments? Compare that to how long before the County takes it if you don't pay your property taxes, then maybe you will understand why taxes don't allways get paid first. "
RealityCheck wrote on Sep 24, 2008 9:06 AM:
" Who in the workd is doing his books? You don't get so far behind in a month or two........ "
stargoddess wrote on Sep 24, 2008 9:29 AM:
" press...your post was so incredibly hard to read, not to mention to understand.
For real. "
For real. "
agreetodisagree wrote on Sep 24, 2008 10:14 AM:
" Of course he would like the community to come together "again" & bail him out. How many times do you think the community will do this for you Jim? Maybe you should enjoy your "things" while you can because you really need to throw in the towel this time Jim. The community will go broke trying to bail you out again & again. "
tallsy wrote on Sep 24, 2008 12:37 PM:
" Jim Needs to start paying his taxes. Hilander is a great place to bowl. I don't want to see Hilander Close for good. He needs to think about his customers and pay off all his taxes "
SICKENED wrote on Sep 24, 2008 4:15 PM:
" Apparently you can't make a comment on here about a specific situation that happened and was handled inappropriately by the owner because TDN won't post it. Anyway...there's a reason he's going bankrupt and it's all about customer service (OR THE LACK THEREOF)! "
kelsomomof3 wrote on Sep 25, 2008 10:01 AM:
" Apparently you cant comment on a related story about the same subject, if the reporter left the previous information out of the current story.
So that leaves me with not much to say. Other then Jim made his bed, so now he needs to be a man and lay in it. Bad business is bad business no matter how you try to sugar coat it. "
So that leaves me with not much to say. Other then Jim made his bed, so now he needs to be a man and lay in it. Bad business is bad business no matter how you try to sugar coat it. "
press wrote on Sep 30, 2008 3:06 AM:
" im sorry stargazer! Since i relied to ths post my post was answered. Luk what being out of control and trying to out do others has gotten America? 700bill debt! Springer files bankruptcey and d country and d world go beyond a financail blow jst because piple do not know how to disciplin themselves wn it comes to bills, credit cards. And loan payments on fancier homes and cars. You want to play u pay at ur own exspense. Does ths financail crisis mean that Americans are greedy? "
grrrowl wrote on Oct 2, 2008 5:55 AM:
" cheney119 has it right. "How's the cost benefit analysis on the marry go round working out? What were you thinking? " Also those other kiddy rides (which are always broken down) and the play place (which costs $5 when they have the exact same thing at mcdonalds) are just plain stupid. He should have kept the "family fun" strictly to bowling and arcade games (and maybe built an inside miniature golf course or something), rather than rides that cost a lot of money to buy, and then break down all of the time. Also, in regards to someone saying that it's the only place where Kelso kids can go hang out, all the Kelso High School kids I know go to the Triangle Bowl to hang out, not the Highlander. "
classic_mustang_chick wrote on Oct 2, 2008 1:02 PM:
" Hey does this mean there will be another car wash??????????? (sorry if it was mentioned already...I didn't read all the posts)
ROTFLMAO!!!!!!!!!!!!! "
ROTFLMAO!!!!!!!!!!!!! "
lucky1 wrote on Oct 3, 2008 8:41 AM:
" It was mentioned in many posts but the lack of customer service doesnt help. I have taken my 8 year old there a few times and have just given up. No one ever helps you. Also having the greyhound pickup right outside is a little scary. "
bowlingalleygirl wrote on Oct 6, 2008 3:22 AM:
" Greyhound has been gone for over a year now. Do any of you realize the closing down of either bowling alley would negatively impact almost every sector of our local economy, especiallly during tourist season which already appears fairly meager around here. Most of you are purely recreational bowlers and do not see the the tourist dollars brought into the community through large scale competitive play. Mt. St. Helens and Triangle Bowl Open are two examples. These are near coinciding tournaments held by each center during the spring-mid summer. Bowling squad times are every Fri, Sat, Sun all day around 10 weeks. Bowlers come from all over and stay up to the entire weekend bowling as many squad in each tournament as possible. Guess what, after long days of bowling these people want to get out and see town or just go back to the motel and relax. They gotta eat, sleep, and even shop somewhere. Where do you think they do this? Many of them come down for several visits during the tournament duration and even bring family and friends just to enjoy some time away from home. Guess what else, many of these bowlers also have discovered favorite locations they stop in every time they are even just passing through between Seattle and Portland that they discovered while poking around town between squad times.
I guarantee you that if Hilander closes, Jim Springer is not the only local business owner that will feel theperfectforaccomadtingoutoftownerneeds. "
I guarantee you that if Hilander closes, Jim Springer is not the only local business owner that will feel theperfectforaccomadtingoutoftownerneeds. "
stargoddess wrote on Oct 6, 2008 11:26 AM:
" The only person to blame for the Highlander closing is Jim Springer himself. It's not up to the community to help him, they do that by patronizing his business!
Obviously, he makes very bad business decisions, which is why he's in this mess ONCE AGAIN.
So, bowlingalleygirl, what you say is true, but don't blame anyone but Mr. Springer. "
Obviously, he makes very bad business decisions, which is why he's in this mess ONCE AGAIN.
So, bowlingalleygirl, what you say is true, but don't blame anyone but Mr. Springer. "
bowlingalleygirl wrote on Oct 6, 2008 2:56 PM:
" My post really had nothing to do w/ Mr. Springer personally. I was just trying to show that bowling alleys bring outside dollars very much needed in our community and a lot of them. I have been in the industry a very long time and i know what Im talking about. I was not defending Jims situation, just trying to shed some light on the negative impact a closure of EIThER bowling would have on ThE COMMUNITY. Im willing to bet if Id switched the word hilander w/ Triangle, you would have nothing to say. I am not asking for community help and I have my own opinions about the situation and both local bowling centers in general that are best left unshared. I just want people to realize the revenue everyone in retail/service/hospitality industries would be losing, and yes even Triangle Bowl would be losing out in the long run. I guarantee if that place goes under a lot more businesses will have a lot less money to pay into Caesars pot. BTW end of post should have read Jim Springer is not the only local business owner that will feel the sting. My editing wasnt so good last nite, I apologize. Jims mess is his to sort but I do not want to see that center close regardless of who ends up running the show. It would be another blow to local industry the general population in town does not understand fully the repurcussions that will surely follow. "
bowlingalleygirl wrote on Oct 6, 2008 3:19 PM:
" Another thing, through all of this, Jim may not have been paying everything he should when he should, but he has kept all of us, his employees, paid always. he knows we have families to support and he has this far never failed us there. Which is a lot as far as im concerned, especially considering the numerous giant rabid monkeys on his back. Many businesses in trouble would sacrifice the employees first w/out a second thought. Guess what else, we pay sales and other taxes w/ Jims dollars and we spend money all over Cowlitz County and surrounding areas so he is in fact contributing through us. he may not be fully doing his part, but he is making sure we have the money to do ours. Thank you Jim, for that. And also thank you for allowing me the opportunity to stay in an industry I love after my runs w/ Foxx and old/new Triangle. Despite the adversity, it has been a blast. Sadly, I dont get to see all the bowlers I adore as much as Id like, but what can you do. "
bizowner wrote on Oct 6, 2008 9:58 PM:
" Re: "Bowling Alley Girl" - How about all those employees whose social security deductions didn't make it to the IRS and went into keeping the business afloat instead? ( to the tune of $500,000+) The IRS says its illegal to use employee tax withholding dollars to fund your business - in fact it is criminal if they decide to prosecute - they usually don't but they can. You may gladly giveup your social secutiry funds to keep the business alive but most employees won't - that's why its illegal. "
classic_mustang_chick wrote on Oct 7, 2008 8:15 AM:
" If you ask me bowlingalleygirl sounds like his daughter trying to save daddy's business....
"I have been in the industry a very long time and i know what Im talking about." Well the rest of your post doesn't make me believe that you're 40...my guess is a very young adult that literally grew up in the bowling alley... "
"I have been in the industry a very long time and i know what Im talking about." Well the rest of your post doesn't make me believe that you're 40...my guess is a very young adult that literally grew up in the bowling alley... "
LeeLee wrote on Oct 8, 2008 9:42 AM:
" I'm pretty sure you're dead on with that one classic mustang chick. "
Music wrote on Oct 9, 2008 9:54 AM:
" Like most residents, I am frustrated by a man that has taken advantage of his employees and customers. It would be nice if someone could buy the business and run it successfully. Our family loves the activities they offer, but I have a hard time giving my money to someone that doesn't play by the rules. "
bowlingalleygirl wrote on Oct 10, 2008 1:03 PM:
" Sorry, youre wrong. I am not Jims daughter in fact. I am 28 if you need to know and my sons dad and I have each worked at old Triangle, Foxx, and now hilander. I worked at Foxx twice as well as new Triangle twice. My mother was at old Triangle for around 12 years and at Foxx after its closure and back at Triangle since its reopening. I started in this industry at 14 bussing tables for tournaments and babysitting in the playroom. I have cooked, cocktailed, and bartended as well. I was also an avid bowler for many years as both a youth and adult. Almost my entire life, social and economic revolves around bowling. The bowlers are family to me. And each time I switched centers my family has gotten bigger. I walked into hilander knowing full well the situation before I got there, but decided I would ride it out. Ive been though it all before, good and bad, but I love what I do. My sons dad and my mother went through the closure of old Triangle and my sons dad was also there through the closure of Foxx, which devastated our son. Our involvement with the hilander, and the personal relationships developed as a result has helped heal that loss for him. Bowling is an industry I wholeheartedly love and dont want to see die locally. With each closure the bowling community has gotten smaller and more divided which will kill it. "
bowlingalleygirl wrote on Oct 10, 2008 1:34 PM:
" I am frustrated too, but my focus and concern is the industry and fate of the business, not whos running it. I really just want people to realize when a bowling alley closes it truly is a big deal. They are essentially micro communities and social hubs. It is the only type of place ive ever walked into that truly offers something for everyone and anyone is welcome and on the same level regardless of age, sex, race, religion, politics, economic background, and mental/physical ability or any other discrimination creating factor one could think of. Most people dont get to see it because they come through casually and focused on their entertainment needs. Most are not afforded the opportunity or desire to sit back and see the big picture. Unfortunately for many people in our community, bowling is the only regular social interaction they get. And for others its the only thing that keeps them coming out and active. Each time a center closes a lot of people simply stop bowling rather than join in at another facility. Even after the inevitable decline in bowling that would absolutely follow hilanders closure, Triangle can not possibly accomodate all the bowling needs for this community single handedly. There simply would not be enough time in the day or lanes left to do it.
My main concern is that hilander remain open regardless if it stays in Jims hands or lands in someone elses. "
My main concern is that hilander remain open regardless if it stays in Jims hands or lands in someone elses. "
bowlingalleygirl wrote on Oct 10, 2008 1:46 PM:
" Also, already been through the employee withholding issue w/ old Triangle and it comes out fine for employees, but not fine for guy responsible for making payments. he is the one left holding the bag in the end, ask the former owner of Triangle, his mismanagement of employee withholdings was far worse over a much longer time. There were many times over last several years he owned it that he couldnt even pay his employees. "
longviewtransplant wrote on Oct 10, 2008 8:55 PM:
" i say stick to the law and pay what you need to when you need to. pretty simple business philosophy, eh? it works for other businesses (imagine that!), i think they should have considered that the first time they didn't pay their taxes...hmmmmm. concept. even though we are some VERY taxed businesses here in washington state, there's no reason to conduct business illegally. but then again, our nation seems intent on ignoring the concept of the meaning of that word. "
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