Taylor Simmons, a Roanoke County resident for the last five years, wrote the following on her Facebook page in August 2016:
“I just experienced Soul Bowl for the first time, and it is, without question, one of the coolest things I’ve done in the last decade. The food was great, and the atmosphere was even better. In addition to bowling, there were other things like live music and a cards table. Who knew a community fundraiser could be this fun?”
On Friday, August 24, Taylor, along with approximately 100 other individuals, gathered at Lee-Hi Lanes Bowling Alley in Salem to participate in Soul Bowl, a national series of charitable events that combines bowling with good food, good music and good works. Tickets were $20 in advance and $25 at the door.
The primary goal of the event is to provide a simple and profitable fundraising solution for area non-profits and organizations. “The proceeds from the event are distributed to various organizations throughout the Roanoke Valley,” event organizer Janea Gray noted. “The variety of activities offered creates a vibrant atmosphere that keeps attendees coming back and spreading the word to their friends. Soul Bowl has become a popular destination for birthday celebrations, class reunions, corporate gatherings and friends simply getting together to have fun.” Ramon Williams and his brother, Damon, own R&D Williams, a Sports and Event Management company.
Since 2016, the two have hosted Soul Bowl locally twice a year. “Participating organizations utilize the funds raised to support a variety of causes that include, but are not limited to, education, health and wellness, financial literacy and domestic violence,” Ramon said. “Since its inception in 2007, Soul Bowl has raised over $120, 000 for charitable organizations.” Added Damon, “Soul Bowl caters to adults who seek an alternative to the traditional nightclub.
The events feature live music, games and bowling… essentially creating a vibrant atmosphere in an upscale environment.” Last Friday’s Soul Bowl ran from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. VIBE 100.1/97.7 FM, First Citizens Bank, Lew Thompson with State Farm Insurance and New Hope Support Services sponsored the event.
Abigail Myers was hopeful that her first Soul Bowl experience would be an enjoyable one. She now encourages everyone to give it a try. “I can’t really bowl, and I’m not that good of a dancer, but none of that mattered,” Myers said with a smile. “Life is all about making memories, and I certainly made some last Friday.” It was difficult for Keisha Banks to keep from laughing while watching her friends compete in a dance competition. “I have two left feet so I know I don’t have much rhythm. Compared to my friends though, I looked like the worlds best choreographer,” Banks said. “That’s what I love about this event. Everybody can just relax and have a great time.” The next Soul Bowl event, according to Ramon, is set for Friday, November 23. For more information, visit soulbowl.com.
