Post #427778 by Bora Boris on Wed, Jan 7, 2009 9:40 PM

From OC Historical Blog Spot .com Oct. 28, 2008 ~

"At Costa Mesa's recent City Council candidate forum, everyone agreed on only one thing: Tearing down Kona Lanes in 2003 was a big mistake and a significant loss to the community. Where were these people five years ago? Not only did they Costa Mesa lose one of its most popular entertainment venues and landmarks, but Southern California lost yet another of its nearly-extinct classic Googie buildings. Worse yet, it has been replaced only with a vacant lot full of weeds. I was there on closing day, and watched the constant procession of people paying their last respects to this nostalgic landmark. Some had tears in their eyes, including married couples who had met while bowling there. Costa Mesa may someday get another bowling center, but it will never replace Kona Lanes."

andThe OC Register article it was linked too. Oct. 23, 2008 ~

"The vacant lot on in Mesa Verde where Kona Lanes used to stand was also addressed. Sneen, using a line McEvoy said at a previous debate, said it best: "They should have never torn down the bowling alley!"
The room erupted in applause. Candidates had different ideas for that property, which is privately owned by the Segerstrom family. Some suggested having a bowling alley brought back to the site, while others said it would be a perfect location for senior living."

It’s nice that people realize it was a mistake to tear it down but Tipsy’s also right, if only they could have just demolished the Karaoke Machine.