Raleigh, N.C. — The Longbranch Saloon, which bills itself as the state's longest-operating nightclub, has issued an unusual appeal to people on its e-mail list: It is trying to raise enough money to keep from closing Friday under the weight of debt from a building renovation.

In the e-mail addressed to "our dear friends, family and customers," the nightspot said it needs $80,000 to pay back rent and that a loan for which it has applied might not be approved in time.

The saloon had to pay for $300,000 in building improvements to bring its rented location up to code, the e-mail said, "and we've been catching up ever since.

Money raised will be paid back, the establishment said. Once the loan comes through, "We will be able to pay everyone back right away."