New ownership for Oxford Lanes

RUMFORD -- Oxford Lanes Bowling Alley on Route 2, previously owned by Rick Nokes, is now under new ownership.

Jamie Volkernick, a Rumford native, is the new owner and manager of operations. The new name is Oxford Lanes Bowling & Recreation Center.

Rick Nokes after 30-plus years of operating Oxford Lanes, has decided it is time for a change. Bowling has been in the Nokes family for over 50 years. They bought the Mexico Bowl-O Drome back in 1960 and in 1981 they bought Oxford Lanes and ran both bowling centers until the Mexico center closed.

The Nokes family has been well involved in community events and a variety of charities and fund raisers for people in the River Valley. Rick will continue to be employed at the new Oxford Lanes Bowling & Recreation Center, so you will still see him at the alleys.

When asked how he feels about the change, Rick said, “It’s time for me to step back, but not be completely out of the picture. It’s time for some fresh ideas and I know Jamie has the desire and talent to make the place better."

“It’s been a pleasure. I‘ve made many friends and had a million laughs over the years," added Nokes, who will bring a wealth of knowledge to Oxford Lanes Bowling & Recreation Center and will be a valued employee.

Jamie and Rick have known each other as friends for many years. Jamie, who started bowling when he could first stand, ran a very successful bowling league for many years at Oxford Lanes, where he shares his passion and competitiveness with others. Jamie was also employed in the past at Oxford Lanes for over 10 years and looks forward to owning and operating the business for many years to come.

“My goal is to keep the sport of bowling and family fun in Rumford for many years to come and to re-introduce people to the great sport of bowling," noted Jamie.

“Bowling is one sport everyone can do. It’s a great way to get out and meet new people and have many laughs as well as compete in a fun and passionate way. It gets you up, it gets you moving."

Jamie said he will continue with the current bowling leagues and will also be expanding them. “I want everyone who wants to bowl to be able to bowl in a league that best suits them.”

Jamie said Oxford Lanes Bowling and Recreation Center will be the place where kids and adults of all ages will want to be. "I have many ideas to make this a safe, fun and affordable way to spend time with their family and friends.

Oxford Lanes Bowling & Recreation Center offers 16 candlepin bowling lanes, arcade, mini-golf and birthday parties. Bowling leagues form in August and will start in September.

The tentative opening date is July 28 at noon with a grand opening at a later date.