Monday, January 28, 2008

Here & There Column 1-29-08

Dr. Randall R. Peairs of the Northeastern Eye Institute in Scranton exams the left eye of Shirley Townsend.
Vision Is So Precious To All Of Us

Sometimes we just don't realize how important our vision is to us until reality strikes home and you are told "legally you are blind in that eye."
We use our column this week to write about a personal family tragedy in hopes that our experience can be of help to others.
The story I'm about to tell you is done so that everyone can get a better understanding of how important your eyes are and to remind everyone to have eye examinations on a regular basis.
In mid-November of 2006 my wife, Shirley, went to her local optometrist to get new glasses and during the routine examination she was told that it looked like she had a cataract and she was referred to an ophthalmologist who said is was not a cataract and she was again referred this time to a retinal specialist.
An extensive examination by a retinal specialist revealed that Shirley was legally blind in her left eye and that she had a macular pucker in the left eye. The retinal specialist suggested she get a second opinion.
A search and recommendation by Livingston Manor Medicap pharmacist Mark Wegener that he fills a number of prescriptions from the Northeastern Eye Institute took us to Dr. Randall R. Peairs, F.A.C.S. at the main office building of Northeastern at Scranton, Pa. An extensive examination revealed that Shirley had 20.25 vision in her right eye and 20/200 in her left eye which also had a macular pucker with significant traction and retinal edema. The examination said there was cystic retinal changes with significant fluid in the left eye, an indication it had been chronic.
We consulted with the retinal doctor who performed the original examination in Middletown and he asked about Dr. Peairs and as soon as we noted that Dr. Peairs had 17 years of surgical experience and was also a teaching professor the strong recommendation was that Dr. Peairs should be the doctor to perform any vitrectomy surgery.
After some serious thought and prayer Shirley and I felt that we had nothing to lose by having the surgery done. It should be noted that there is no guarantee that any eyesight would be obtained with this surgery.
Vitrectomy surgery is a type of eye surgery that treats disorders of the retina and vitreous. Shirley's needs involved the wrinkling of the retina called macular pucker.
Doctors told us that women are more prone to eye disease than men especially during pregnancy and after menopause., the doctor warned us about the sun and women should wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection whenever they're in the sun. A good suggestion for all of us.
These type of eye problems are caused by genetics, age, nutrition, smoking and sunlight exposure..In Shirley's case the doctor said age (which she didn't want to hear) and the sunlight exposure was most likely the reason for her eye problems.
There has indeed been a lot of frustration and strain in our family with Shirl's surgery in June followed by two minor Lazar surgeries the past two month. Some progress has been noted with vision not being as sharp and clear......but there is some vision so that's a plus.
We hope that our experience will give others an early warning to have your eyes checked on a regular basis and we also offer our sincere thanks to Dr. Peairs and Dr's Jordan and the very professional and caring staff at Northeastern Eye Institute in Scranton.

Friday, January 25, 2008

Bowling Highlights Column 1-25-08

Dawn McAdams smiles as she holds her 7-month-old twin grandchildren Alexis and Alton McAdams

Mike Scroggins

Eddie Lake

Eddie Lake Rolls His Fourth 300 This Season

A change from one ball to another proved to be the correct move for Monticello ace bowler Eddie Lake Monday night January 21 in the Monday Men's league at Kiamesha Lanes.
Eddie changed balls after the first game from his 16-year-old Hammer bowling ball to a Columbia Messenger and the change resulted in keeping the Eddie Lake "300 game Express" rolling as he smashed the maples for his fourth perfect game this 2007-08 season.
This 300 game was rolled in the second game of the night as Lake finished with 300,278 and a 752 series on lanes 3 and 4.
Ed noted this week that he has changed his style of bowling and he is very comfortable with the change. "I'll still go back to my old Hammer," he said.
Lake scored a 300 in the second game of a match November 9 in the Friday Night Mixed league making it his third perfect 300 game this 2007-08 season.
He finished the night with a 267, 300, 205 for a 762 series on lanes 5 & 6.
Eddie on October 1 and October 2 made bowling history in Sullivan County by bowling 300 games on consecutive nights.
Lake, 44, a right-handed bowler, on Monday October 1 in the Monday Men's league smashed the maples for a 223, 300, 277, 800 series. The next night, Tuesday October 2, while a substitute bowler in the Tuesday Mixed Firefighters league he scored a 207, 300, 235 for a 732 series.
Both leagues are at Kiamesha Lanes.
This 300 brings Lake's total career perfect games to seven. They have all previously been bowled with a 16-year-old Hammer bowling ball........so the old adage that if it still works don't fix it can certainly apply to Eddie Lake's bowling equipment.
Eddie has admitted in the past that his bowling ball is showing some wear and tear as there is a big chunk of the ball missing at the top of his finger holes. He has also said that there was no need to change to any of the new modern style balls when he had scoring success with this ball. Pro-Shop operator Mike Luongo noted this week that he had done some repair work to Lake's Hammer bowling ball.
Lake's third 300 game was bowled on December 8, 2006 in the Friday Mixed league at Kiamesha Lanes.
His two other 300 games were recorded in the 2003 summer league and in the Wednesday Men's league in 2004, both at Kiamesha Lanes.
His high 856 series was bowled in 2004 in the Wednesday Men's league at Kiamesha Lanes.
Eddie presently bowls in the Monday and Wednesday Men's leagues and the Friday Mixed Doubles league, all at Kiamesha Lanes.
In October following his two night back to back 300 games his average was 230 in the Tuesday Mixed Firefighters league and 242 in the Monday Men's league.
Ed's present average is 229 in the Monday league, 205 in the Wednesday Men's league and 223 in the Friday Mixed league.
Lake is single and is self-employed in the construction field. He comes from a well known Sullivan County bowling family with brother Ricky Lake and mother Joan Lake.
The Sullivan County 300 tally sheet so far this season included 300's bowled on September 26 by Donald Durland in the Wednesday Men's league, October 1 Eddie Lake in the Monday Men's league, October 2, Donald Durland Oct. 9 in the Tuesday Mixed Firefighters league, October 29 Michael Mason in the Monday Men's league, Eddie Lake November 9 in the Friday Mixed league, Nate Sanders November 26 in the Monday Men's league, all at Kiamesha Lanes, Kyle Stevens two back to back 300 games November 29 in the Thursday Men's Doubles league at Liberty Lanes and Lake's 300 game Monday making a total of 10 perfect games this season in Sullivan County.

Bowling Tip
By Mike Luongo

Bowlers: This week's tip will help you understand correct shoulder alignment when throwing your strike ball and making spares.
When throwing a bowling ball, the shoulders should not necessarily be straight (perpendicular in relation to the lane.
Instead, they should be aligned straight to the target mark you are trying to hit. This is called pro setting the angle of the shoulders.
There are three rules regarding shoulder alignment.:
1. When playing straight down the boards, you shoulders should be straight in relation to the lane.
2. When making shots to the right of the head pin, open your shoulders in relation to the lane.
3. When making shots to the left of the head pin, close your shoulders in relation to the lane.
Doing this is easy if you imagine that there is a three foot arrow poised on the right shoulder (or left shoulder if you are left handed). Simply point the arrow at the target and the angle will automatically be correct.
Note: Your arm swing should never change, instead, adjust the angle of the shoulders so that your arm swing is in line with the target.
Mike Luongo is technically certified through IBPSIA as a Pro Shop Operator and teacher. He is also a Silver Level Coach with the USBC and is also the Northeast Technical Advisor for the Morich Bowling Ball Company (Morich Enterprises, Inc.). Mike is also a member of the Brunswick Pro Shop Staff. If you have a question or subject you would like covered he can be reached at 341-1694 or by sending an e-mail to mikespro@warwick.net

Ed's Outlook

Only in a truthful attempt to qualify what we see as fictional untruths in a letter to the editor we have said this before and will say it again publicly, we have no ill-feelings against Liberty Lanes and we continually tell people that is it indeed the cleanest bowling center in the area and that they provide a good shot for honest scores.
In reference to the writers remark about the Fox Bowling Center he might be amazed at the number of bowlers from Callicoon all the way up Route 97 to Hancock that bowl in Hancock (and still live in Sullivan County) and also the number of bowlers in the northern section of Sullivan County that find it more convenient to bowl in Hancock....so these bowlers deserve the recognition that other bowling establishments refuse to give.
Also we don't speculate. or report on rumors.......we have professionally been writing a bowling column for 48-years and our reputation and professionalism is one in which we report what people tell us.......we don't ask for proof of construction and a legal document as to when their reported project will be available..
Suggestion is if you have a good score write, phone or e-mail the information to me and we will guarantee it will be reported.
This column is written by columnist Ed Townsend who is also a consultant to the professional sport of bowling. Ed is also a member of the board of directors of the Tri-County NY USBC where he serves as Publicity Director. If you have a topic that would make good reading or have league scores, standings or tournament information, please call Ed at 439-8177 or send an e-mail to bowlgolfect1@yahoo.com Visit our Web site at http://bght.blogspot.com where you can find additional bowling information.

Local Scores

Callicoon Lanes

Recent highlight scores in the Monday Hortonville Ladies league include a 182 by Robin Luckey and Pat Peters 188, 546.
In the Tuesday Delaware Valley Men's league Roger Miller scored a 202, 196, Tom Schultz 203, Ed LeRoy 216, Ryan O Dell 201, Steve Lagoda 196, and Tom Russell 197.
In the Wednesday Mixed Businessmen league Phil Jacobi scored a 216, Warren Gorton 195, Tom Kehrley 202, Bill Berger 218, Tom Russell 234, Damien Vanleuven 218, Mark Rutledge 197, Kory Keesler 207, 214, Bruce Rutledge 206, 208, Bob Cady 236, 221, Tom Skiff Jr. 200, 238, 216, 664, John Hoffmann 216, Rober Widmann 202 and Shirley Townsend 185.

Kiamesha Lanes

Recent highights scored in the Tuesday Mixed Firefighters league included a 254 by George Kelley, Neil Bell Jr. 254, Kevin Stackhouse 246, Donalld Durland 664, Cecil Walters 646, Ed Guthrie 635, Debbie Durland 235, 640, Dorian Jnnings 223, 567, Andrea Grossman 223 and Roberta Yakin 542.
In the Monday Men's league "Little Lefty" John Hoffmann missed another 300 game when an 8 pin didn't go down in the ninth frame of his last game of the night and he had to settle for a 279. John just lastThursday had a new Roto Grip Quest bowling ball drilled lby Mike Luongo and a new spare ball for those pesky 7 pins. His first night of league bowling with the new ball produced a 235, 191 and the 279 for a 705 series. Real nice scoring also by Ricky Lake who also missed a 300 g ame with a 279 in his last game and a 266 and 208 for a 753 series.
Johnstons Toyota and Kiamesha Lanes are hosting the Brittany Miller Foundation tournament on Sunday, February 10 at noon. The fund raising tournament with a prize fund will award first, second and third place teams with prize money. The Brittany Miller Foundation is a Pediatric Cancer Fund and is for 4 person teams (any combination) and is a 100 percent handicap event based on 220. You must have a verifiable sanctioned average to win any of the prize money. The prize fund is based on 16 teams and a second squad at 3:30 will be created if necessary. The tournament will also feature raffles and door prizes, 50-50's, refreshments, make a baby split and win $2, make a larger split and win $5 and the splits must be observed by a tournament director. Entry fee is $100 per team and completed entry forms can be returned to Kiamesha Lanes or Johnstons Toyota.
In the Monday Nite Men's league Nate Sanders scored a 210, 235, 601, Lloyd Bridges 202, 202, Marty Weichman 202, 201, 602, Mike Weiner 224, 606, John Hoffmann 215, 247, 248, 710, Walt Edwards 247, 238, 215, 698, Paul Minton Jr. 263, 237, 697, Mike Cardo 206, Mike Mason 257, 211, 208, 678, John Fischer 212, 207, 607, Donald Durland 275, 216, 664, Mark Wegener 225, , 256, 253, 734, Alpesh C. Patel 206, Bobby Cooper 206. Al Caycho 243, Jack Moylan 208, 226, 205, 639, Rob Sze 214, 265, 204, 683, Kort Wheeler 221, 228, 214, 663, Angel Rodriguez 223, 204, 623, Jeryl Scott 200, 222, 267, 689, Eddie Lake 205, 254, 615, Rick Lake 209, 244, 211, 664.
In the Wednesday Nite Men's league, Dan J. Ricco scored a 202, 246, 613, Al Caycho 211, 235, 625, Mike S. Weiner 211, Arthur Eggleton 204, Tom Belgiovene 225, Vincent Collura Jr. 215, 222, 628, Mark Wegener 219, 245, 656, Donald Durland 236, 207, 630, Paul E. Minton Jr, 215, 227, 235, 677, Kevin Stackhouse 214, 220, 614, Josh Strang 224, 218, 247, 687, Allen Jones 226, 602, George Battle 211, Frank Muller Jr. 220, Larry Berens 205, 213, 612, Dean A. Shattuk 225, 226, 676, Mike G. Card 200, John Cascone 223, Russ Keesler 200, 235, Roy M. Kerrp 204, Ricky W. Lara 208, 246, 222, 676, Frank T. Emmone 256, 236, 670, Eugene Morton 216, 204, 608, Christopher Magie 247, 215, 654, Bob Yakin Jr. 212, 205, Frank F. DiCostanzo, 213.

Liberty Lanes

Neversink bowler Dawn McAdams recorded some real nice bowling scores in the Thursday, Janaury 17 Ladies 5:45 league.
Dawn pounded the maples for a 202, 268 and a 191 for a real nice 661 series.
She maintains a 168 average in this league and also bowls in the Friday Mixed Doubles league.
Dawn has been bowling for some 20 years and presently uses an Ebonite Thriller reactive bowling ball and a plastic ball for spares.
Her previous high games included a 289 and a 672 in 1997.
McAdams bowls for the International Corp. team on Thursday night.
Married to Steve, the family also consists of two daughters.
With her experience as a plumber Dawn is employed at the plumbing counter at Schmidt's Wholesalers in Monticello.
Real nice bowling Dawn and thanks for sharing it with the bowling community.
Another nice night of bowling was recorded by Livingston Manor bowler Bob Cady in the January 13 Sunday Mixed league.
On January 13 Cady scored a 217, 257, 247 for a nice 721 series.
Bob is a 190 plus average bowler and has a 300 game as part of his many bowling honors.
He also bowls in the Wednesday Mixed Businessmen league at Callicoon Lanes.
Bob's team mates in the Sunday Mixed league include Barbara Kortright and Richard and Lynn Winters.
Recent highlight scores in the Liberty Elks Bantam League included Austin Zwek with a 243, Thomas Muller 243, Michael Torres 256, Nicholas Brockner 207, Gary Dotten 201, Tommy Barkley 236, Hunter Karen 204, Robert Lyons 208, Charlie Olsen 203, Matthew Edwards 212 and Thomas McCausland 205.
In the Liberty Elks Teenage League, Thomas Fix scored a 201 and Josh Goldstein had a 205.
In the Wednesday Men's League , Kyle Stevens scored a 245, 245, 689, Jason Rogers 258, 243, 685, Rich Vail 255, 223, 675, Jim Fiore 277, 215, 673, Ralph Coney 213, 236, 217, 666, Chris Stephens 217, 226, 631, Tom Skiff III 230, 216, 618, Dave Sawall 244, 615, Herbie Sklar 222, 599, Alan LaBounty 244, 596, Don Kuhlman 212, 590, Carlos Torres 202, 212, 588, Russell Bivins 220, 582, Kevin Teller 203, Wayne Fox 220, Glenn Porter 220, Peter Bertholf 218, Larry Hicks 214, Robert Stewart 212, Glenn Norris 210, Jason Jones 207, Gregg Skiff 203, Keith Smith 203, Gordon Hyde 201 and Ryan Lepke 200.
In the Thursday Ladies league , Dawn McAdams scored a 268 game and 661 series.
In the Thursday Bud Men's League, Gregg Skiff scored a 224, 231, 244, 699, Todd Houghtaling 269, 638, Ralph Coney 253, 200, 610, Kyle Stevens 236, 203, 605, Chris Stevens 234, 202, DerekIrwin 213, Paul Tuttle 215, Bruce Garritt 209 and Kevin Brockner 204.
In the Friday Mixed League, Keith Smith scored a 236, 299, 723, Kevin Brockner 206, 245, 650, Kyle Stevens 219, 200, 222, 641, Ralph Coney 212, 209, 206, 627, Robert Fix III 276, 619, Alan LaBounty 245, 609, Rich Perry 203, 214, Jim Fiore 204, Dawn McAdams 234, Angie Desmond 213, Billie Jo Bound 202, Deana Fritz 215, Mitch Peck 220, Dave Dunlap 210 and Merlin Bound 202.
In the Saturday Mixed League,Kevin Teller scored a 235, 235, 665, Merlin Bound 235, 605, Phil Norris 236, Keith Smith 237, Elisa Bound 204, John Lopez 235 and Phil Russell 212.
In the Sunday Mixed League, Richard Winters scored a 214, 205, 290, 709, Robert Cady 208, 225, 211, 644, Herbie Sklar 257, 200, 642, Mitch Mattison 205, 204, Mike Durbak 241, Chris Stevens 223, 200, Stew Stevens 215, and Rob Tuttle 204.

Fox Bowling Center

Recent highlight scores in the Tuesday Ladies Early Bird league include a 206, 527 by Tammy Kane, Kathleen Maltese 180, 194, 525, Sally Ballard 194, 521, Michelle Wormuth 214, Melinda Ferris 193, Anne Couse 190 and Jennifer Raymond 189.
In the Wednesday Men's Independent league Rod Pudney scored a 246, 246, 211, 703, Jim Thompson 213, 217, 239, 669, Donald Marino 202, 255, 207, 664, Norm Ellis 257, 213, 655, Tony Wright 247, 216, 650, Charlie DeCristofaro 211, 211, 227, 649, Josh Rice 215, 235, 643, Brian Drumm 200, 266, 640, Jeff Curtis 234, 215, 639, Carl Davis 224, 199, 215, 638, Daniel Wormuth 209, 235, 630, Steven Jacobi 226, 212, 624, Hank Whitmore 214, 214, 621, Robert McNaught 224, 200, 616, Pat Kille 227, 216, 613, Jerry Kulakosky 222, 202, 612, Brandon MacDonald 207, 237, 606, Lee Stanton 213, 226, 605, Paul Ignatovich 226, 195, 603, Mitch Persbacker 202, 223, 602, Andrew S. Bullis 245, Richard Layton 238, Robert Johnson 227 and Craig Conklin 224.
In the Thursday Men's Deposit National league Andrew Bullis scored a 290, 258, 726, Jamie Murphy 232, 198, 238, 668, Rod Pudney 226, 234, 197, 657, Steve Hopkins 209, 233, 632, Norm Ellis 220, Mitch Persbacker 224, Harold Morgan 200, 203, Sterling Myrphy 221, 203 and Paul Fritz 233.
In the Friday Couples league James Dibble scored a 245, 247, 216, 708, William Gleim 208, 236, 237, 681, AQndy Bullis 245, 218, 655, Craig Conklin 236, 209, 645, Robert Johnson 212, 200, 219, 631, Daniel Wormuth 215, 214, 609, Gino Jones 205, 201, Jason Mead 210, 195, Edwin Linkroum 208, 199, Michelle Brush 185, 204, 550, Catherine Resti 207, Shirley ASpencer 187, Kristina Couse 185, Dawen Mclenon 183 and Hope Jones 180.
Professional Bowlers Association

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. – Mike Scroggins came into last Sunday’s final round of the Motel 6 Dick Weber Open two losses away from tying a Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) record for the longest losing streak in televised matches. Now he’s on a four-game winning streak.
Scroggins broke an eight-match television losing streak and became the first No. 5 seed since Tommy Jones in 2005 to win a stepladder final on the Denny’s PBA Tour, knocking off top-seed Chris Barnes, 226-171, to win his fourth career title at Fountain Bowl.
Just as Wes Malott did as the lone right-hander in last week’s Lumber Liquidators Earl Anthony Medford Classic final round against three lefties, the lone lefty Scroggins let the four right-handers in the finals burn up the lanes while he put up high score after high score. After a close game against Pete Weber in the opening match, Scroggins dominated his next three opponents.
In the title match, Barnes was doomed by a 4-7 split and an open in the sixth frame followed by a 1-2-4-10 washout and open in the seventh. Scroggins wrapped up the match with strikes in the eighth and ninth frames.
After the match, Scroggins was brought tears when talking about what it meant to him to win the tournament named in honor of the late Dick Weber. He recalled the time Weber gave him a hand-clipped newspaper article soon after Scroggins won the 2004 Baby Ruth Real Deal Classic.
“He was such a great guy and for a legend to come up after a tournament and give me press clippings that he actually cut out, I’ll never forget that,” Scroggins (Amarillo, Texas) said. “He said, ‘Mike, put these away and always remember how you felt that day.’ He was a special guy and I’ll never forget him.”
Scroggins was anything but the sentimental favorite going into the finals, facing the unenviable task of going up against Pete Weber, who was making the finals for the first time in the three years the event has been held in honor of his father, who passed away in February 2005. Weber took control of the match after overcoming an early deficit by striking in the seventh, eighth and ninth frames. Needing a strike in the 10th to win, Weber left the 4-9 split which opened the door for Scroggins. Weber picked up the split and struck to force Scroggins to double and Scroggins calmly struck twice to advance.
“I knew bowling Pete was going to be a tough match because the lanes started out so difficult and I knew whoever survived that match would probably go a long way,” Scroggins said of his lowest-scoring of the four matches. “On my side, the lanes definitely got better and I was fortunate to double in the 10th to beat Pete. After that just I relaxed.
“Whenever your opponents give you an opening it gives you a boost and fortunately I took advantage of it.”
Scroggins was given an opening in all four of his matches and he more than took advantage. In his second match against No. 3 Tommy Delutz Jr., a 269-224 win, Scroggins struck eight consecutive times after an eight-spare in the second frame while Delutz never recovered from two spares and an open in the first four frames.
The third match was never in question as No. 2 seed Jack Jurek was unable to strike until the sixth frame while Scroggins struck seven consecutive times after a nine-spare in the first frame, cruising to the 254-199 win.
Scroggins took home $25,000 for the win and an exemption for the 2008-09 season, while Barnes (Double Oak, Texas), who fell to 0-5 in championship rounds this season, earned $13,000 for second. Jurek (Lackawanna, N.Y.) took home $6,500 for third, Delutz (Flushing, N.Y.) earned $5,500 for fourth while Weber (St. Ann, Mo.) earned $5,000 for fifth.
The Denny’s PBA Tour this week heads to Las Vegas, Nev., for two events next week, the 2008 PBA Exempt Doubles Classic Jan. 20-22 and the H&R Block Tournament of Champions, Jan. 23-27. The live ESPN-televised finals of the H&R Block Tournament of Champions take place Sunday, Jan. 27 at 12:30 p.m. while the PBA Exempt Doubles Classic finals take place immediately after and will air Sunday, Feb. 3 at 2 p.m. EST.

Denny’s PBA Tour
2008 Motel 6 Dick Weber Open
Fountain Bowl
Fountain Valley, Calif.
Sunday, Jan. 20

CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND

Pos. Name, hometown Total/Games Money
1. Mike Scroggins, Amarillo, Texas 953 (4 games) $25,000
2. Chris Barnes, Double Oak, Texas 171 (1 game) $13,000
3. Jack Jurek, Lackawanna, N.Y. 199 (1 game) $6,500
4. Tommy Delutz Jr., Flushing, N.Y. 224 (1 game) $5,500
5. Pete Weber, St. Ann, Mo. 197 (1 game) $5,000

SCORES – In the first match, Scroggins def. Weber, 204-197; in the second match, Scroggins def. Delutz, 269-224; in the third match, Scroggins defeated Jurek, 254-199; and in the final, Scroggins def. Barnes, 226-171.

This is Scroggins’ fourth career Denny’s PBA Tour title.
Dave Palojarvi, Jr. Wins Super Strike Challenge Jackpot

ISLAND LAKE, ILLINOIS – Dave Palojarvi, Jr. struck in all 10 key strike to win David Traber’s National Strike Challenge, then followed it up with two more strikes to also take the Super Strike Challenge jackpot. Dave was bowling in the Tri-Village Men’s league at Streamwood Bowl in his hometown of Streamwood, IL and cashes for a total of $1014.

Also during the week ending January 13, Brian Connell, from Mundelein, IL, bowling in the Friday Nite Men’s league at Fair Haven Lanes in Mundelein, won a share of the Strike Challenge jackpot. Unfortunately, a split on his 2nd shot in the 10th frame stopped him from also collecting from the Super Strike Challenge pot. Brian gets a check for $348.

David Traber’s National Strike Challenge is a nationwide strike jackpot program for league bowlers. By entering at the bowling counter for $2 before they bowl their 3rd frame, and then striking in each of the designated 10 frames, league bowlers will win an equal share of the weekly (Monday through Sunday) jackpot with all other bowlers who win that week. For an additional $1, bowlers can also enter the Super Strike Challenge, which is a separate jackpot, paid out to bowlers who successfully complete the Strike Challenge and then finish the 10th frame of the final game with strikes on both of the 11th and 12th shots.

For more information, visit the web site: http://www.strikechallenge.com or contact Dan Farris at 1-877-369-STRK [7875].

David Traber’s National Strike Challenge is still signing up bowling centers to run the National Strike Challenge for their league bowlers. Interested in running this great promotion in your center? Contact Ken Felten at 1-877-369-STRK [7875] to sign up.
Stars of Today and Yesterday Attend PBA Tournament of Champions Welcome Party; PBA TV Ratings on ESPN Get a Boost.

By Dick Evans

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – When you blend the greats of today with the greats of yesterday you get the Great of the Greatest and that’s exactly what is happening at the Red Rock Hotel/Casino/Bowling Center this week.

Before the H&R Block Tournament of Champions started, 54 players gathered for a celebration in the 12-lane VIP section of this ultra-modern Center.

There was Sean Rash, current USBC Masters champion and one of the Tour’s brightest young stars, cruising around the area asking players from today and yesterday to sign his Tournament of Champions framed poster.

And there were an elated array of past champions gaining recognition from the Tour’s young guns.

Possibly Del Ballard Jr., the 1989 Tournament of Champions winner when it was held at Riviera Lanes in Akron, best reflected the old days by wearing the old white T of C jacket given to all champions on the old PBA tour.

It was required wearing during the T of C dinners at the parties conducted at the Firestone Country Club.

The white jacket still looked impressive and so did Del, although he was slightly heavier than in his prime bowling days.

Dave Husted brought his entire family from the Portland area where he was in the process of buying a second bowling center. His father, Champ, who bowled on Tour in the infant years of the 50-year-old PBA, looked fit enough to shoe it up and throw a few strikes.

Mark Roth, without doubt one of the all-time great bowlers, appeared a more relaxed bowler than in his youthful years.

Dave Soutar brought along wife Judy as a cheering section and possibly as a coach, although coaching is not allowed during competition.

Dave and Judy along with Don and Paula Carter are the only husband and wife teams today who have been inducted into bowling halls of fame

During the practice round earlier in the day here came Walter Ray Williams, the man who broke Earl Anthony’s 41-titles record, pushing a baby cart instead of bowling balls.

“He’s an amazing father,” said mom Paige.

There is one thing that Walter Ray has in common with all fathers…he seems more impressed with a smile from four-month old Rebecca than five consecutive strikes.

Speaking of proud fathers, Amleto Monacelli brought son Amleto Emmanuel with him from Venezuela. “We flew into Orlando first to get my green card renewed and then flew out here for the tournament,” said Amleto, the 19-time Tour champion.

Unfortunately, or fortunately, the young Amleto enjoys kicking a soccer ball more than rolling a bowling ball.

Hugh Miller flew in from Seattle with son Quinton, who is an avid and talented young bowler.

Wes Malott, who won two weeks ago in Medford, was not going to bowl in the doubles tournament that preceded the Tournament of Champions because of a sore bowling hand. But when he was teamed with Columbia teammate Chris Barnes, Wes decided to bowl.

Malott rested his sore bowling hand during the practice session but said he would be ready for the 32-games leading up to Sunday’s telecast, which will start at 12:30 Eastern time this Sunday.

The PBA staff will get a week off because after the live Tournament of Champions telecast Sunday they will tape the doubles finals for showing Feb. 3 at 2 p.m. Eastern time.

If cold weather continues to plague the nation then the PBA ratings on TV could soar. Last week the combination of cold weather and a late starting NFL game enabled the PBA to garner a tremendous 1.39 rating.

With no NFL game Sunday, the PBA TV ratings could soar once again.

Keep your fingers crossed that it’s cold in the East.

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Here & There Column 1-22-08

Studies Just Add To The Cost Of Government

Every time we turn around we read or hear of this government agency or that municipality making decisions to finance a study of this or that proposed project.
Makes one begin to think why voters take the time or make the effort to elect legislators to government positions
The Sullivan County legislature was expected to make a decision last week that could cost an estimated $20,000 to study what to do with the county landfill.
The Sullivan County Legislature's Public Works Committee are looking at alternatives to the proposed Phase II Expansion of the County landfill.
A decision has to be made to either move ahead with the Phase II Expansion or should the county go with the long-term exportation of the county's solid waste.
The county financially has both the building of a new jail and the landfill issue to tackle.
The decision regarding the landfill is whether it make "financial sense", as one legislator said, or go with the possible closing of the landfill and the exportation of the county's solid waste.
Then comes a decision that a study is needed and this could cost in the neighborhood of $20,000.
Legislator Alan Sorensen says, "the debt related to the county landfill clearly shows that the County's "Trash for Cash" policy is fatally flawed."
County Manager David Fanslau also made indications that the county may not be able to afford Phase II.
Legislator Sorensen introduced a resolution that the county manager issue a request for proposals for the long-term exportation of the county's solid waste.
It has been pointed out that the county is projected to lose another $2.7 million in 2008 with the continued operation of the landfill.
It's certainly a factor and it was pointed out by another legislator that there is no option involving the landfill that will not bear a significant cost.
Decisions that were made some years ago to import garbage so that this would add money to the county coffers and help keep taxes down is now in some quarters being debated at not the most brilliant move our county politicians have ever made.
It appears that there has been some serious studies already made by the county legislature and we the county residents have made the effort to elect what we hope are responsible and intelligent members of our legislature..
..We feel that they should make a decision on this matter and ditch a $20,000 study and use these funds for a more useful benefit to county taxpayers.

Thursday, January 17, 2008

Bowling Highlights Column 1-18-08

Tri-County NY USBC Association officers, from the left, 1st Vice President Vera Green, Committee Member Carena Collura and Association Manager Michele Bensley will once again be handling registration and the paper work at the upcoming Association tournament in March at Pin Street Lanes in Warwick. Applications for the tournament must be in by January 31.
Wes Malott in action last Sunday.
Deadline For Association Tournaments Is January 31

The deadline for filing applications for the 2ed Annual Tri-County NY United States Bowling Congress (USBC) Men's (Open) and Women's Championship Tournaments is January 31.
The Tournaments will be held the same time in March at the Pin Street Lanes (formerly Frontier Lanes) on Route 94 in Warwick.
The tournament dates for the team event are, Saturday March 1 at 1 and at 3 p.m. and Sunday, March 9 at 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Doubles and singles will be bowled on Sunday, March 2 at 9 a.m., 12 noon and 3 p.m., Saturday March 8 at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. and Sunday March 16 at 9 a.m., 12 noon and 3 p.m.
Team events are once again four member teams.
Entires post marked February 1 will be accepted.
Check in time for the tournament is 30 minutes before you scheduled to bowl.
Entry fee per person per event is $20 and the entry with check or money order can be mailed to Tri-County NY USBC Association, 405 Ave. E, Matamoras PA. 18336
All events (which is optional) is $1.
Confirmation will be mailed after entries close on 1-31-08.
Entry blanks will be available at all Association bowling establishments.
Information can be obtained by calling Association Manager Michele Bensley at 845-239-0163.

The Bowling Tip
By Mike Luongo

Bowlers: This weeks tip is for all bowlers regardless of your level and it has to do with understanding the correct body position needed to execute a bowling shot and being able to duplicate it.
If you were to stand straight on the approach, facing the pins, letting the ball hand on your hand, you could not swing the ball straight without hitting your hip with the ball. This is impossible to do without swinging the ball around your hip because the ball is too big. This "roundhouse swing" is not able to be duplicated shot after shot. Therefore, you might be in a position to be able to swing the ball toward your desired target without any obstacles.
The tip: Get your head as far to the right (or left if left-handed) and tilt your bowling shoulder slightly downward. Contrary to what some of your fellow bowlers might tell you, you must drop your shoulder toward the floor in order to avoid the "roundhouse" swing. At the same time, slightly open your hips and shoulder and you will be able to swing your arm straight toward your target time and time again. Due to different physiologist, the exact position may vary slightly from person to person, but when correctly positioned, you can use gravity to control the tempo of your swing.
Note: if you were to shoot a game of pool, or go to a range and shoot a bow or rifle, note the position your head would have to be in to be effective in these activities. Also, next time your watch Pro Bowling on TV, make note of the bowler's body positions.
Mike Luongo is technically certified through IBPSIA as a Pro Shop Operator and Teacher. He is also a Silver Level Coach with the USBC and is also the Northeast Technical Advisor for the Morich Bowling Ball Company (Morich Enterprises, Inc.) Mike is a member of the Brunswick Pro Shop Staff. If you have a question or subject you would like covered, he can be reached at 341-1694 or via e-mail at mikespro@warwick.net

Ed's Outlook

Athletes around the world get the recognition they deserve for their talented achievements and so it should be for those who participate in this great game of bowling.
Overt he years we have made it a point to let league secretaries and bowling lane proprietors know that we will accommodate their bowlers with their honor scores.
At times we have had to remind proprietors and league secretaries to send in their score sheets.
We have never refused bowling scores from anyone.
Bowlers participate in a league each week, they work towards perfecting their bowling talents, they put forth their athletic skills and talents and they accomplish good bowling scores but some never receive recognition and publicity they deserve.
Bowling proprietors and league secretaries should all make sure that bowlers get the recognition they deserve.
Over the many years this columnist has been reporting bowling scores we have developed various systems on making sure that bowlers get the publicity they work for and deserve.
Many bowlers come up and talk to me or my wife or call me on the phone asking why their bowling scores are not being reported to me.
I clearly point out to them that its the responsibility of either the bowling proprietor or league secretary to get the scores to me and that they should be complaining to them rather than me.
Lets make sure all of our area bowlers get the recognition and publicity they deserve.
This column is written by Bowling Highlights Columnist and Consultant to the professional sport of bowling Ed Townsend. Ed is also president of the Northeast Bowling Writers Association. If you have a topic that would make good reading or have league scores, standings and tournament information, please call Ed at 845-439-8177 or send an e-mail to bowlgolfect1@yahoo.com Visit our Web BLOG at http://bght.blogspot.com

Local Scores

Kiamesha Lanes

In the Tuesday Mixed Firefighters league Matt Cooper scored a 270, John Hoffmann 269, 654, Donald Durland 264, 673, Ed Guthrie 656, Dorian Jennings 248, 663, Debbie Durland 226,617 and Joan Lake 216, 568.
Callicoon Lanes

Recent highlight scores in the Monday Hortonville Ladies league include a 182 by Robin Luckey and Pat Peters 188, 546.
In the Tuesday Delaware Valley Men's league Walter Yanacek scored a 213, Joel Turner 200, Jon Wayne 223, 267, 658, Gary Erlwein 195, Charles Reichenback 200, Mark Schriber 195, Jon Duffy 202, Mark Herbert 205, Scott Herbert 211, 226, Roger Miller 202, Tom Schultz 223, 213, 604, Ed LeRoy 215, Mark Garro 208, 234, 602, Mark Hawley 203, Brian Starr 224, 213, 601, Joseph Gager 224, 233, 225, 682 and Brian Kitson 202.
In the Wednesday Mixed Businessmen league Roger Widmann scored a 217, 205, Scott Austin 219, 195, Tom Kehrley 197, Damien Vanleuven 220, Nicole Rossomon 224, 533, Shirley Townsend 185, , 500, Bob Cady 211, 241, 226, 678, John Fink 200, Ed Townsend 211, Tom Skiff Jr. 212, John Hoffmann 211, Alan Rutledge 204, Kory Kessler 224, Bruce Rutledge 243, 222, 645, Tad Doscher 219, Phil Jacobi 200, Alan Hendrickson 204, 237, 198, 639, John Lopez 258, 616 and Justin Lopez 236, 201.

Fox Bowling Center

Recent highlight scores in the Tuesday Women's Early Birds league includes a 180 by Sally Ballard and Kathleen Maltese 191, 198, 566.
In the Wednesday Men's Independent league Donald Marino scored a 226, 225, 238, 689, Josh Rice 215, 256, 202, 673, James Dibble 206, 268, 196, 670, Glenn Bowker 247, 244, 669, Andrew Bulllis 215, 242, 200, 657, John Stanton 214, 249, 653, Daniel QWormuth 247, 209, 650, William Gleim 195, 202, 245, 642, Jack Hazen 218, 235, 639, Scott Ostrander 299, 639, Craig Gehrig 206, 245, 627, David Thomason 223, 212, 625, Robert McNaught 246, 623, Brian Drumm 213, 215, 617, John Gurnick 238, 612, Cory Newman 215, 214, 611, Frank Couse 224, 203, 608, Allen Bullis Sr. 238, 205, 603, Tony Wright 201, 208, 603 and Jerry Kulakosky 234.
In the Thursday Deposit National Men's league Al Bullis scored a 236, 244, 203, 683, Shane Merwin 195, 245, 225, 665, Rod Pudney 204, 224, 237, 665, Nick Mastropletro 227, 235, 201, 663, Al Bullis Jr. 214, 234, 202, 650, Andrew Bullis 236, 223, 633, Tony Wright 213, 218, 201, 632, Paul Fritz 244, 204, 629, Lee Stanton 200, 226, 617, Steve Aitken 217, 207, 612, Carl Davis 234, 608, Rick Mills 209, 222, 601, Harold Morgan 212, 203, 601, Bill Gleim 247 and Paul Ignatovich 246.
In the Friday Couples league James Dibble scored a 224, 199, 247, 670, William Gleim 265, 207, 660, Andy Bullis 224, 205, 222, 651, Daniel Wormuth 225, 248, 648, Howard Couse Sr. 237, 216, 643, Anne Couse 227, 543 and Virginia Schellinger 19
PBA

As the only right-handed bowler in last Sunday’s championship round, Wes Malott thought he might have an advantage against his left-handed opponents. Turns out, he was right.
Malott defeated rookie Rhino Page, 255-193, to win the 2008 Lumber Liquidators Earl Anthony Medford Classic at Lava Lanes, Medford, Ore. to capture his third career Denny’s Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour title.
The 31-year-old had finished second in his last three championship rounds and four of the last five, but he finally put it all together, striking in 17 of 22 frames in his two matches. The outcome of the two matches were never really in question, a contrast to his recent losses on TV. In three of his last four title-match losses, his margin of defeat was eight pins or less.
“Once we got to the show I knew the lefties would have to go through a transition,” Malott (Argyle, Texas) said. “In that first semifinal match, neither of them struck from the fifth frame on so I knew it was starting to transition. I still had to bowl well and thankfully I did and brought it home.”
In the title match against Page, who was making history as the first rookie since Mike Durbin in 1967 to make three championship rounds, Malott jumped out to an early lead with strikes in the first four frames. After looking dominant in his first match, a 230-190 win over Patrick Allen, Page never caught up to the transition and failed to string two strikes together after starting the match with a double.
It was another disappointing finish for the 24-year-old phenom, who has finished second twice and fifth in his three championship round appearances. He is still well on his way to the PBA Rookie of the Year award as he sits in the top 10 in the PBA World Point Rankings, all while having to go through the Denny’s PBA Tour Qualifying Rounds each week.
Malott, meanwhile, moved up to third in the PBA Player of the Year race behind Allen and leader Walter Ray Williams Jr. Page moved into seventh on the list.
Malott advanced to the title match with a 245-235 win over Parker Bohn III. Malott started the match with six consecutive strikes and never looked back, striking in the eighth and ninth frames to clinch the match.
In the first semifinal, Page jumped ahead of Allen early with strikes in the first five frames which turned out to be enough as neither bowler struck in the final five frames. Allen, who was making his fourth consecutive championship round appearance, had just three strikes in the match and an open in the fourth frame.
Malott earned $25,000 and an exemption for the 2008-09 season with his win. Page (Topeka, Kan.) earned $13,000 for second while Bohn (Jackson, N.J.) and Allen (Wesley Chapel, Fla.) took home $6,000 each for third and fourth, respectively.
The Denny’s PBA Tour moves to Fountain Valley, Calif., this week for the 2008 Motel 6 Dick Weber Open, Jan. 15-20 at Fountain Bowl. The live ESPN-televised finals take place Sunday, Jan. 20 at 1 p.m. ET.
Denny’s PBA Tour
2008 Lumber Liquidators Earl Anthony Medford Classic
Lava Lanes
Medford, Ore.
Sunday, Jan. 13

CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND

Pos. Name, hometown Total/Games Money
1. Wes Malott, Argyle, Texas 500 (2 games) $25,000
2. Rhino Page, Topeka, Kan. 423 (2 games) $13,000
3. Parker Bohn III, Jackson, N.J. 235 (1 game) $6,000
4. Patrick Allen, Wesley Chapel, Fla. 190 (1 game) $6,000

SCORES – In the first match, Page def. Allen, 230-190; in the second match, Malott def. Bohn, 245-235; and in the final, Malott def. Page, 255-193.

This is Malott’s third career Denny’s PBA Tour title.

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Here & There Column 1-15-08

Will Sullivan County Die Without A Casino?

If you read the headlines and some editorials these past several days you would have thought Sullivan County had been wiped off the earth and there would be no way for the county to survive U.S. Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne's rejection of the proposals of two American Indian tribes to operate casinos in Sullivan County.
Headline read, "Sullivan County Economy Dealt Harsh Blow", "Interior Secretary Rejects Sullivan County Casino Plans", "Two Catskills Casinos Rejected by Secretary of Interior", and "Some Are Worried For The County's Economic Future."
Has Sullivan County fallen on its face, has the economy gone south, is our business community ready to close its doors? We think the economy of our Sullivan County government will be facing tough decisions in 2008 and the county legislature has to unite and work for the benefit of everyone.
Some in our governments are saying that the local economy could lose big in the absence of casinos.
And the Indian's are claiming that this decision by Kempthorne is 100% political and that when and if a new Secretary of Interior comes to Washington in 2008 that this will automatically change the picture and if will result in casino approval........we think that is what gamblers call a "crap shoot" and it's not something you "can take to the bank."
Talk of law suits in this matter will probably take place but will have little effect on this issue.
There has been so much talk that the revival of the struggling Sullivan County economy depended on the gaming project.
One can't deny the importance of jobs and economic opportunity in Sullivan County and many opponents to casino gambling claim that with progressive projects like Bethel Woods the county can survive and prosper.
Too many have put their hopes and dreams of future success on the flip of a card or the toss of some dice but for now our business community and local government has to work to encourage and keep Sullivan County dollars in Sullivan County.
And to repeat what we have previously said.......it is truly time for changes in our county government who needs elected officials to be more responsible leaders who will fight to stop waste and someone who will treat the beleaguered taxpayers in Sullivan County with shared municipal services and true and honest tax reform.

Friday, January 11, 2008

Bowling Highlights Column 1-11-08

Two Sullivan County bowlers who have enjoyed bowling in the Professional Bowling Association Pro-Am events ;include Livingston Manor residents Barbara Kortright, left, and Bob Cady, right. The professional bowler is Michael Fagan of Greenlawn, (Long Island) NY.
Tommy Jones In Action Last Week In Reno

Local Bowlers Have Opportunity To Bowl With Pros

There truthfully are not too many opportunities for local area bowlers to bowl with the Professional Bowlers Association tour Pros but some upcoming tour stops in both Long Island and Connecticut will be offering Pro-Am tournaments where the average league bowlers can bowl three games.
If you love the game of bowling attending a professional PBA Tour Tournament should certainly become a part of your bowling lifestyle.
Tournaments within easy driving distance from this area would include the GoRVing Classic March 5-9 at Norwich, CT, the GEICO Classic March 19-23 at West Babylon (Long Island) NY and the 65th Denny's U.S. Open March 23-30 at North Brunswick, NJ.
The U.S. Open does not offer a Pro-Am tournament but is one of the most exciting professional bowling tournaments on tour because of it's format and the very tough scoring conditions bowlers have to compete on.
The Pro-Am tournaments are bowled on Saturday.
At the Gl RVing Classic at the Norwich Bowling and Entertainment Center at 188 W. Town Street, Norwich, CT the Saturday March 8 Pro-Am events and fan Day Pro-Am times are 10 a.m., 1,4 and 7 p.m.
At the GEICO classic at the AMF Babylon Lanes, 430 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, NY the Saturday March 22 Pro-Am events and Fan Day Pro-Am times are 12:30, 4 and 7 p.m.
Bowlers interested in signing up for these events can call the Norwich Bowling Center at 860-889-3361 and the AMF Babylon Lanes at 631-661-6600 or you can go on the PBA website for additional information.
The Pro-Am event bowlers receive cash prizes, a PBA Yearbook, bowling towels, a PBA Pro-Am certificate signed by the pro bowlers, coaching by the worlds best bowlers, bowling pins and there is the option to also upgrade any Pro-Am entry to receive a bowling ball or bag. At some of the Pro-Am's photos of each group with their starting professional are taken and presented to each bowler in that group.
The Pro-Am includes three games of bowling with 6 different professional bowlers.
The Pro-Am's give the opportunity to bowl, chat and just have fun with the great professional bowlers on tour today.

Bowling Tip
By Mike Luongo

Bowlers: This week I would like to let you know more about the RG (which stands for radius of gyration and core torque) in bowling balls.
First to help you understand the RG, a modern weight block in a professional bowling ball is comprises of several parts of different densities, Each of these densities has two characteristics. It is a certain volume and it occupies a certain location. When fused together, all of the different densities (all the weight of the ball) act as it they are a single unit of a single density that is rotating at a single distance from the center of the ball. This is all the RG is. It is a measurement that tells you how far from the center of the ball the weight acts like it is rotating. As far as the core torque, it is a phase we use in the industry to measure the "flip" of the ball. The higher the number, the harder the ball will turn the corner. As with anything else, it is a guide for estimating potential. How flippy a ball really will be is determine by the shape of the core, the bowlers style, the surface of the ball and the lane condition it is thrown on. A tall skinny core will generally flip harder than a short fat core. Even with all of this, it is important that there is no substitute for a good shot.
Mike Luongo is technically certified through IBPSIA as a Pro Shop Operator and Teacher. He is also a Silver Level Coach with the USBC and is also the Northeast Technical Advisor for the Morich Bowling Ball Company (Morich Enterprises, Inc.) Mike is also a member of the Brunswick Pro Shop Staff. If you have a question or subject you would like covered, he can be reached at 341-1694 or via e-mail at mikespro@warwick.net

Ed's Outlook

The annual Monticello Elks Lodge Scotch Doubles No-Tap Tournament is one of those :"Fun" tournaments where bowlers relax and have a lot of good times with their fellow competitors.
This coming March the Monticello Elks Lodge # 1544 presents the 9th Annual event on March 1, 2008 at 2 p.m.
Chairman of the event this coming year is Dean Shattuck who has announced the return of the popular format of a Chicken Bar-B-Q with all the fixings, draft beer , wine and soda following the bowling at the lodge building.
Bowling will take place at Kiamesha Lanes and prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place.
Bowling and the Bar-B-Q will cost $40 per team with a team consisting of one male and one female.
Many door prizes will also be available.
Reservation deadline is February 23, 2008 and the tournament is limited to 64 teams.
For reservations call Dean Shattuck at 845-794-1172. Checks should be made payable to Monticello Elks Lodge # 1544.
This column is written by Bowling Highlights Columnist and Consultant to the professional sport of Bowling Ed Townsend. Ed is also president of the Northeast Bowling Writers Association. If you have a topic that would make good reading or have league scores, standings or tournament information, please call Ed at 845-439-8177 or send an e-mail to bowlgolfect1@yahoo.com Please visit our Web BLOG at http://bght.blogspot.com/

Local Scores

Kiamesha Lanes

Recent highlight scores in the Monday Men's lleague includes a 219 by Danny Ricco, John Hoffmann 213,, 223, Mike Cardo 206, John Fischer 232,, Chris Marler 232, Paul Durland 217, Donald Durland 226, Al Caycho 216, 231, Rob Sze 212, Kort Wheeler 233, 202, Jaryl Scott 212, 204, Mickey Lake 212 and Ricky Lake 203, 217.,
In the Tuesday Mixed Firefighters league Donald Durland scored a 239, 236, John Hoffmann 221, 216, Dale Sonnenschein 232, Matt Cooper 245, Robert Yakin Jr. 201, Shane Cunningham 211, Rob Keesler 213, Kevin Stackhouse 204, John Cascone 202, Charles Stackhouse 225, Tom Hickman 203, Debbie Durland 202, 209 and Roberta Yakin 183.
In the Wednesday Men's league Al Caycho scored a 222, Mike Weiner 220, , 217, Paul Durland 216, 226, Eddie Lake 246, Josh Strang 209, 200, Christopher Magie 202, Dean Shattuck 255, 201, Ed Guthrie 212, Al Frangipane 213, John Cascone 204 and Shane Conner 236..

Callicoon Lanes

Recent highlight scores in the Monday Hortonville Ladies league includes a 180 by Lil Zieres, Pat Peters 188, 504, Rebecca Rhodes 206, Judy Mohn 180 and Joann Brockner 192.
In the TuesdayDelaware Valley Men's league Brian Starr scored a 195, Joseph Gager 216, Gary Erlwein 212, Steve Lagoda 195, Russell Yerkes 198, Jon Wayne 213, Karl Adams 195, Mike Hubbard 206, Brian Kitson 209, Mark Herbert 210, Scott Herbert 235, 613, Justin Lopez 224, Alan Hendrickson 202, Roger Miller 197, 207, Ed Hanselmier 196, Tom Schultz 196, Ed LeRoy 201, 220, 197, 618, Mark Garro 203, Jackie Brockner 253, 603 and Mark Schriber 204, 221, 602.
In the Wednesday Mixed Business league Bob Cady scored a 200, 201, 202, 603, John Fink 207, Tom S kiff Jr. 203, John Hoffmann 200, 212, Damien Vanleuven 216, Alan Hendrickson 214, Phil Jacobi 198, Shirley Townsend 182, Dave Maus 196, Roger Widmann 203, Mark Rutledge 227, Mike Beseth 195, Kory Kessler 203 and Bruce Rutledge 219.

Fox Bowling Center

Recent highlights scores in the Wednesday Independent league includes a 213, 259, 228, 700 for Hank Whitmore, Donnie Marino 214, 211, 256, 681, Frank Couse 244, 214, 215, 673, Jack Hazen 268, 214, 665, Pat Kille 246, 213, 202, 661, Arthur Gately 232, 246, 659, Thomas Anderson 203, 257, 649, Robert Johnson 235, 235, 647, Rod Pudney 229, 221, 640, James Dibble 222, 210, 204, 636, Andrew Bullis 204, 217, 206, 627, Jeff Curtis 225, 207, 623, Marc Fino 247, 227, 622, David Thomason 223, 198, 197, 618, Daniel Wormuth 215, 203, 198, 616, Tony Wright 221, 197, 609 and Allen Bullis Sr. 246.
In the Thursday Deposit National league Rod Pudney scored a 299, 247, 734, Robert Johnson 254, 233, 239, 726, Andrew Bullis 203, 269, 203, 675, Bill Gleim 234, 234, 653, Howard Couse Sr. 225, 243, 639, Paul Fritz 234, 216, 635, Gino Jones 234, 216, 633, Ray Cornwell 214, 235, 622, Jeff Curtis 225, 203, 613, Paul Ignatovich 237, 611 and Lee Stanton 226.
In the Friday Couples league Gino Jones scored a 238, 215, 228, 681, Daniel Wormuth 214, 244, 204, 662, James Dibble 258, 197, 645, Carl Davis 242, 205, 640, Jason Mead 232, 212, 627, William Gleim 198, 219, Craig Conklin 268, Howard Couse Sr. 227, Sandy Winans 190, 236, 562 and Hope Jones 181.
Jones Wins Reno Event

Tommy Jones and Patrick Allen have enjoyed a friendly rivalry the last few years, needling each other about which star has more Denny's Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour titles.
With both players owning 10 titles heading into last Sunday's ConstructionJobs.com Championship, Jones took over bragging rights by defeating Allen, 254-214, at the National Bowling Stadium (NBS), Reno, Nev,, to capture victory No. 11 and become the second bowler ever to win on all five of the PBA's oil patterns.
The Denny's PBA Tour this week moves to Medford, Ore., for the 2008 Lumber Liquidators Earl Anthony Medford Classic, Jan. 9-13 at Lava Lanes. The live ESPN-televised finals take place
BOWLING PROGRAMS AS DIRECTOR OF YOUTH DEVELOPMENT HOPKINSVILLE

Brian Graham, Hammer Brand Manager, is returning to the USBC to spearhead the organization’s youth bowling initiatives as Director of Youth Development. Prior to joining Hammer, Graham served as the Director of College Bowling USA. “Growing the sport is, and has always been, my number one concern,” said Graham. “Today’s youth are tomorrow’s future and it’s my goal to develop and initiate programs to support these young athletes as they mature in the sport. With all the resources available through the USBC, I’m positive that youth bowling will see tremendous strides in participation numbers this year. I look forward to being a part of that.” The Hammer brand has reached legendary status under Graham’s tutelage. The brand’s Black Widow series is the hottest ball line on the market today. Bowlers nationwide are throwing record scores and there’s no slowdown in sight as the brand just launched the Black Widow Pearl and Black Widow Spare in late 2007 and the Black Widow Bite on January 4. “Seeing Hammer return to the top of the market in terms of sales and loyal Hammerheads has been a great ride and I wouldn’t trade this time for anything,” said Graham. “But, knowing that I am returning to a position that is so close to my heart makes this transition much easier for me.” A league bowler since age five, Graham was born and raised in Kokomo, Ind., and went on to attend Vincennes University and University of Nebraska where he earned a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration with Marketing Emphasis. As a member of bowling teams at Vincennes and Nebraska, he was named First Team All-American and won the collegiate single championship. In 1997, he was a member of Team USA and won Gold Medals in the FIQ American Zone Championships in the singles and team events. Graham, who joined Hammer in 2004, continues to remain a competitive bowler today with the support of his wife and two children. “Although we hate to lose such a dynamic member of our team, we’re excited to see him return to his lifelong passion,” said Bob Reid, vice president of marketing for Ebonite International, Inc. “Ebonite International has said time and again that we’ve got to do something to turn around participation numbers and we’ve got to start with our youth. They’ve got longevity in the sport, and, if appropriately supported, will turn around the dismal league numbers we’re experiencing today. “I have no doubt that Brian is ready to tackle that challenge head-on and will certainly make a positive impact on the future of youth bowling. We certainly wish him all the best and the full support of all our brands in his endeavors.” Graham will begin his new role on January 28. Based in Hopkinsville, Kent., Ebonite International is a privately-owned company that currently services bowling centers, distributors and retail outlets both domestically and internationally. The company's consumer product brands include Ebonite, Hammer, Robby's, Columbia 300 and Track. Its commercial product brands are Ebonite VanTech Capital Equipment, Vantage Genuine Parts, Ebonite Bowling Center Direct.
USBC PROACTIVE IN FACILITY, EQUIPMENT STANDARDS GROUP
Ridenour's membership in ASTM helps bowling grow in sports science field

As bowling's national governing body, the United States Bowling Congress must stay current on all sports trends such as facilities and equipment standards. One way it does that is through membership in the American Society of Testing and Measurement.

ASTM is an organization that discusses some of the most challenging issues facing sports facilities and equipment. It has volunteers from private businesses, sports organizations, universities and governmental agencies.

"ASTM members are safety experts," said USBC Research Engineer Paul Ridenour, an ASTM member since joining USBC in December 2006.

"We are trying to stay proactive in our safety specifications so that our membership has a safe and fun time when they are on the lanes."

The recent requirement that bowling lane conditioners (oil) must now meet federal safety guidelines before it can be considered for approval and use in USBC-certified competitions is a direct result of USBC's work with the ASTM. USBC's allowance of a warning statement to be placed on lane beds to notify bowlers not to cross the foul line also resulted from its ASTM relationship.

In addition, USBC and its predecessor organizations have used ASTM testing standards for coefficient of friction (a number that represents the friction between two objects) and coefficient of restitution (the energy transfer between two objects upon impact). In bowling, this relates to the testing of balls, pins and lanes.

"It's important for us to belong," Ridenour said. "Being part of the international community we need to do that. We are sports scientists back here. We have to grow as sports scientists in the Olympic community."

Ridenour sits on the Miscellaneous Playing Field subcommittee which covers sports facility surfaces such as basketball and tennis courts, fencing and indoor sports floors like bowling. The subcommittee reports to the Sports Equipment and Playing Fields committee.

"It's important to stay active besides the bi-annual meeting," Ridenour said. "I want to go to at least one sub-committee meeting a year."

The ASTM was founded in 1898 originally to set standards in industries lacking a national governing body. Today, it serves industries whether they have an NGB or not.

United States Bowling Congress
Through its Equipment Specifications and Certification team, USBC regulates and standardizes bowling equipment by concentrating on pin and product testing, research work, bowling center certifications and lane dressing inspections. The team of engineers, technicians and support staff provides lane-conditioning support for a variety of tournaments and Sport Bowling events.

USBC's eight-lane climate-controlled testing facility is the world's premier bowling research center. Since the mid-1980s, Equipment Specifications and Certification also has approved products for international competition such as the World Tenpin Bowling Association and the Federation Internationale des Quilleurs.

The United States Bowling Congress, as the national governing body, ensures the integrity and protects the future of the sport, provides programs and services to more than 2.6 million adult and youth members and enhances the bowling experience.
USBC MASTERS TO REUNITE WITH USBC OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS IN 2009

GREENDALE, Wis. - One of the sport of bowling's most prestigious events, the United States Bowling Congress Masters, will reunite with the tradition-rich USBC Open Championships next season.

The two events, which were united together from the Masters inception in 1951 until 2001, will be conducted at Cashman Center in Las Vegas in 2009. The Masters is tentatively scheduled to be held Feb. 8-15, 2009, with the Open Championships beginning shortly thereafter.

"These events really complement each other and this move brings back some of the tradition these events have shared in the past," USBC Chief Operating Officer Kevin Dornberger said. "The Masters will be the perfect kickoff to the Open Championships and the unique venue is unmatched in the sport of bowling."

The events will be conducted on 56 specially constructed lanes inside Cashman Center, creating a stadium setting and enhancing the event for spectators as well as competitors.

For the past four years, the Masters has enjoyed a successful run in suburban Milwaukee, with the television finals being held at Miller Park in 2004 and 2007. Although the Masters will not be conducted during the 2008 calendar year, it will remain one of major events on the Denny's Professional Bowlers Association Tour schedule for the 2008-09 season.

"We are looking forward to repositioning the USBC Masters and are intrigued to see what the change in location and timing will do for attendance, media coverage and TV ratings," PBA Commissioner and CEO Fred Schreyer said. "We have a great partnership with the USBC and while Milwaukee has been an outstanding host for the Masters in recent years, we agreed with the USBC that some changes were needed to maximize the amount of attention this prestigious event will receive."

With the move to February, the Masters television finals will no longer go up against the National Football League, paving the way for an increase in mainstream media exposure and higher television ratings.

"The Masters is now positioned to achieve maximum television ratings and our hope is to expose this great event to an even bigger audience," USBC Vice President of Marketing and Communications Tom Clark said. "The plan is to build the Masters into the pinnacle week in the sport of bowling and this is a move in that direction."

In 1951, the Masters began as an invitational event showcasing national and local bowling stars and has grown to become bowling's most prestigious event. The tournament draws nearly 500 of the best professional and amateur bowlers in the world competing for a prize fund of more than $350,000.

The Open Championships, which was held for the first time in 1901, is the world's largest participatory sporting event. The 2009 event in Las Vegas is scheduled to run at least five months and is expected to draw more than 80,000 bowlers from across the world.

For more information on the USBC Masters and USBC Open Championships, visit bowl.com.

United States Bowling CongressThe United States Bowling Congress, as the national governing body, ensures the integrity and protects the future of the sport, provides programs and services to more than 2.6 million adult and youth members and enhances the bowling experience.

Thursday, January 10, 2008

WINTER GOLF

THE ICE AND SNOW HAVE MELTED!
THE WEEKEND FORECAST IS SUNNY AND NEAR 50°
COME OUT AND PLAY SOME WINTER GOLF
$49.00 INCLUDING A CART
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Monday, January 7, 2008

Here & There Column 1-8-08

Klatch Takes On Reason For No Terror Attacks

As we enter 2008 our Sullivan County 'Coffee Klatch' acknowledged the fact that no terror attacks on our country in the last year are indeed no accident.
As we ground the coffee beans, which is our first step in making our fresh coffee, and baked our home made donuts (we bake them in the oven and do not fry them) several in our klatch (made up of three Republicans, three Democrats and one Independent) threw out the topic of it's a good time to think about why we have not had a terrorist attack in 2007.
Has it been just plain luck as some liberal politicians and the media would make us believe or has it been a strong intelligence community that has kept any terrorist group from striking us here within the United States.
One of our klatch members said he had an uncle who worked for the FBI for some 29 years and in a recent visit with him on Long Island this former FBI agent said that the reason we have not been attacked in the more than six years after 9-11 is the hard work of the FBI, CIA and our military.
It seems that this former FBI agent worked with other agencies to bring about sweeping changes in the intelligence community and that after 9-11 this agency became more "prevention-oriented."
Several others in our group noted they had close contact with friends who had members of their families working for the 'intelligence community' and that although everything was kept as closed secrets it has been revealed through the media that the FBI and CIA didn't talk to each other very much but in 2005 Washington established the National Counterterrorism Center in McLean, Va., where 200 analysts from these two organization sit side-by-side analyzing threats 24-hours a day. Here a secure video conference takes place three times a day with all member of the intelligence community to analyze threats and parcel out leads.
We talked about the fact that the USA Patriot Act most likely is a good thing because it got the FBI into sharing information with each other and with the CIA.
All seven members of the Klatch, politics aside, unanimously agreed that the Patriot Act has allowed our intelligence community to gather information that has roped in many terrorists worldwide and many plots are never hatched because terrorists have been arrested, killed or sent back to their own countries and imprisoned.
Following several cups of fresh brewed Java and oven baked donuts three in our group pointed out how critical they were of the media in this war against terrorists.
They scolded the media who they said demonize those who are trying to protect us and who portray the tools that uncover clues to plots as "spying on innocent Americans."
Our klatch is not always unanimous but potential terror attacks on us here in the good old USA showed we were a pretty close knit group on this subject.
We talked about the 2008 presidential election and agreed that al-Qaida is intent on doing as much damage as they can to us and our new president will have to continue on the offensive and must support an organization to deal with threats before they materialize.
As we raised our coffee cups to salute a new year we emphasized strong support in the war on terror ...... because a mistake results in dead people.

Friday, January 4, 2008

Bowling Highlights Column 1-4-08

Candlepin Bowling Pins

Candlepin Bowling Balls



Candlepin Bowling Might Be Coming To This Area

Not that 10-pin bowling has to move over to make room for any sport but there could be a new form of bowling making its debut here if plans work out for an area businessman.
Candlepin bowling is a variation of bowling that is played primarily in several New England states and in the Canadian Maritime provinces of New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia.
A local area business is presently studying the possibility of adding four to six lanes to their existing business for Candlepin bowling only.
The local area business has asked that their business name and location not be disclosed at this time and when final details have been worked out an official announcement will be made.
The existing business has the required space available to house such a venture which would include four to six lanes, approaches and automatic candlepin pin setters.
Candlepin bowling was developed in 1880 in Worcester, Massachusetts by a local bowling alley owner, Justin White.
As in other forms of bowling, the players roll balls down a wooden lane to knock down as many pins as possible.
The main differences between candlepin bowling and the predominant ten-pin bowling style are that each player uses three balls per frame, the balls are much smaller and do not have holes. the fallen pins are not cleared away between balls during a player's turn, the pins are thinner and thus harder to knock down.
Because of these differences, scoring points is considerably more difficult then in ten-pin bowling, and the highest sanctioned score ever recorded is 245 out of a possible 300 points.
The maximum regulation ball weight is 2 pounds 7 ounces and with the regulated pin weight actually being slightly heavier at 2 pounds 8 ounces, the candlepin sport is generally assumed to pose a greater challenge to the player, due, among other factors, to the lack of intrinsic mass on the part of the ball to provide "knock-down" power....than any of the other forms of bowling that use ten pins.
A game of candlepin bowling, often called a string in New England, is divided into ten rounds, each of these rounds being most commonly referred to as a box, rather than a "frame" as in ten-pin bowling. In each normal box, a player is given up to three opportunities to knock down as many pins as possible. In the final box, you roll three balls regardless of the pin count, meaning you may score up to 3 strikes in that single box. In league play, a bowler will bowl five boxes at a time, called a half.
One point is scores for each pin that is knocked down. So, in an imaginary game, if player 'A' felled 3 pins with their first ball, then five with their second, and 1 on the third, they wold receive a total of 9 points for the box.
A good average in candlepin bowling is 100 to 125. The Average cost of a bowling ball is $40 to $48 and the average cost of bowling per game is $3.15. Night league costs per game is $3.10 and Day league costs are $2.85 per game.

Bowling Tip
By Mike Luongo

Bowlers: This weeks tip is for all bowlers regardless of your level and is has to do with understanding the correct body position needed to execute a bowling shot and being able to duplicate it.
If you were to stand straight on the approach, facing the pins, letting the ball hang on your hand, you could not swing the ball straight without hitting your hip with the ball. This is impossible to do without swinging the ball around your hip because the ball is too big. This "roundhouse swing" is not able to be duplicated shot after shot.
Therefore, you might be in a position to be able to swing the ball toward your desired target without any obstacles.
The tip: Get your head as far to the right (or left if left handed) and tilt your bowling shoulder slightly downward, Contrary to what some of your fellow bowlers might tell you, you must drop your shoulder toward the floor in order to avoid the "roundhouse" swing. At the same time, slightly open your hips and shoulder and you will be able to swing your arm straight toward your target time and time again. Due to different physiologist, the exact position may vary slightly from person to person, but when correctly positioned, you can use gravity to control the tempo of your swing.
Note: If you were to shoot a game of pool, or go to a range and shoot a bow or rifle, note the position your head would have to be in to be effective in these activities. Also, next time you watch professional bowling on TV, make note of the bowlers positions.
Mike Luongo is technically certified through IBPSIA as a Pro Shop Operator and Teacher. He is also a Silver Level Coach with the USBC and is also the Northeast Technical Advisor for the Morich Bowling Ball Company (Morich Enterprises, Inc.) Mike is a member of the Brunswick Pro Shop Staff. If you have a question or subject you would like covered, he can be reached at 341-1694 or via e-mail at mikespro@warwick.net

Local Scores


Callicoon Lanes

Recent highlight scores in the Monday Hortonville Ladies league include a 191 by Robin Luckey, Jane Benson 182, Rebecca Rhodes 207, Linda Millis 200, Mary Ardizzone 189 and Debbie Schick 214.
In the Tuesday Delaware Valley Men's league Roger Miller scored a 204, Tom Schultz 268, 628, Mark Garro 200, 196, Jon Wayne 214, 600, Wally Warren 200, Jackie Brockner 182, Mark S;chriber 197, 199, Mark Herbert 206, Ken Darling 195, 216, 601, Mark Hawley 207, Brian Starr 224, 208, 602, Joseph Gager 213, 195, Charles Richenbach 248, 211, 633 and Alan Hendrickson 201.
In the Wednesday Night Mixed Business league Dave Maus scored a 213, Roger Widmann 206, 224, 609, Tad Doscher 239, Rick Weigelt 202, Phil Jacobi 205, Kory Kessler 201, 203, Bob Cady 215, John Fink 213, 232, 619, Tom Skiff Jr. 205, John Hoffmann 218, 222, 238, 678 and Alan Hendrickson 210, 219.

Fox Bowling Center

Recent highlight scores in the Wednesday Independent league include a 201, 254, 248, 701 by Robert Johnson, Rick Mills 266, 222, 207, 695, Allen Bullis Sr. 210, 289, 682, Donnie Marino 203, 229, 233, 665, James Dibble 202, 232, 213, 647, Carl Davis 205, 204, 218, 627, Jerry Kulakosky 203, 227, 624, Jim Merwin 220, 234, 619, David Benedict 205, 233, 606, Lee Stanton 201, 221, 606, Charlie DeCristofaro 220, 602, Rod Pudney 234, 602Brian Tiffany 230, 206, Glenn Bowker 238, Neil Mosher 207, Marc Fino 201, 201, Scott Ostrander 206, 202, Josh Rice 209, 211, David Thomason 222 and Jim Thompson 226.
In the Thursday Deposit National League Andrew Bullis scored a 243, 236, 245, 724, Jeff Curtis 238, 208, 267, 713, Ray Cornwell 229, 245, 207, 681, Al Bullis Sr. 226, 202, 235, 663, Paul Ignatovich 225, 223, 642, Robert Johnson 215, 237, 641, Tony Wright 237, 209, 639, Paul Fritz 206. 233. 620, Greg Barnes 237, 198, 619, Jamie Murphy 202, 246, 619, Neil Mosher 234, 205, 617, Greg Keesler 214, 214, 603, Norm Ellis 206, 213, 600, Carl Davis 203, 213, Gino Jones 227, 200 and Jim Valentine 241.
In the Friday Couples league James Dibble scored a 268, 239, 199, 706, Carl Davis 217, 204, 223, 644, Dan Wormuth 201, 257, 638, Andy Bullis 221, 222, 616, Matthew Johnson 206, 216, 616, William Gleim 209, 235, 612, Gino Jones 230, 198, 605, Brian Tiffany 195, 203, Norman Ellis 212, Gary Resti 224, Kristina Couse 511, Tracy Resti 192, 507 and Michelle Brush 186.

Kiamesha Lanes

Recent highight scores in the Monday Men's league include a 230, 202 by John Fischer, Angel Rodriguez 237, Nate Sanders 245, Paul Durland 200, 216, John Hoffmann 246, 211, Mike Weiner 204, 207, Jaryl Scott 223, Eddie Lake 247 amd Danny Ricco 231.
In the Tuesday Mixed Firefighters league Ed Guthrie scored a 258, 761, Dale Sonnenschein 253, Neil Bell Jr. 251, 720, George Kelley 627, Debbie Durland 252, 668, Dorian Jennings 223, 623, Joan Gregory 212, Andrea Grossman 212 and Roberta Yakin 588.
In the Wednesday Men's league Eddie Lake scored a 264, 215, Al Caycho 202, 206, Larry Berens 201, Frank Emmens 213, Walt Edwards 205, Pedro Agapito 223, Vinnie Collura 204, Glenn Fraser 202, John Cascone 211, 218, Roy Sweeney 202 and Kevin Stackhouse 214.
In the Thursday Ladies league Joan Lake scored a 182, Barbara Neist 213, 204, Ann Sawyer 185, Jamie Decker 199 and Carol Drault 184.



Ed's Outlook

The Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) announced recently that Jeff Carter, Jason Couch, Patrick Healey Jr. and Tony Reyes have each been granted injury deferments of their 2007-08 Denny's PBA Tour exemptions by PBA Commissioner and CEO Fred Schreyer until the 2008-09 season.
The four spots will go back to the weekly Denny's PBA Tour Qualifying Rounds meaning at least nine PBA members will earn a spot in each standard event for the remainder of the 2007-08 season through the TQR. Normally, four PBA members and one amateur advance each week, but exempt player Tim Criss recently announced his retirement and the four injury deferments mean five additional spots will go to the qualifying round.
Carter, who earned his second career exemption after finishing 26th in the 2006-07 PBA World Point Rankings, competed in four events this season before filing for deferment due to surgery on his right hand. The 38-year-old from Springfield, Ill., had a career-season in 2006-07, advancing to two championship rounds and finishing third in the 64th U.S. Open.
Couch, a 15-time titlist, was also coming off a strong season in which he won two titles for the second consecutive season. The lefty from Clermont, Fla., did not compete in any events this season as he is still recovering from off-season knee surgery.
Healey, a three-time titlist, also did not compete in any events this season due to an illness which forced him to defer his exemption. Reyes, meanwhile, deferred his exemption due to a quadriceps injury. The San Bruno, Calif., native had a career-season in 2006-07 as well, winning his first career title and becoming the 17th bowler in history to shoot 300 on national TV.
The Denny's PBA Tour just had a two-week break for the holidays and returned to competition this week with the 2008 ConstructionJobs.com Championship at the National Bowling Stadium in Reno, Nev. The live ESPN-televised finals take place Sunday, Jan. 6 at 1 p.m. ET.
PBA, Motel 6 to Let Fans Decide Key Elements of 2008 Motel 6 Roll to Riches
Fans to decide location, oil pattern and two participants in event with Tour’s highest top prize

The Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) and Motel 6 announced today fans will decide key elements of the 2008 Motel 6 Roll to Riches — a special winner-take-all postseason event featuring the highest top prize on Tour of $150,000 — via a special text message and online voting campaign.
Fans will be able to vote on three key elements of the 2008 Roll to Riches — the location, the oil pattern and two of the participants. Those who choose to text-in their vote will be charged $.99 per vote plus standard text messaging rates and are allowed a maximum of 10 votes per day. A free once-per-week voting option will also be available at PBA.com.
The promotion kicks-off Sunday, Jan. 6, as the first question will be introduced on the air during the live ESPN-televised finals of the ConstructionJobs.com Championship which takes place at 1 p.m. ET. A new question will be introduced in each of the following seven PBA telecasts on ESPN, with the last question being presented during the Denny’s World Championship on Sunday, Feb 24. Results of each question will be revealed during the following week’s Denny’s PBA Tour telecast on ESPN.
The Motel 6 Roll to Riches features six PBA stars — the winners of each of the four PBA Major events and two players from the text/online fan vote — bowling head-to-head in a unique format for a winner-take-all $150,000 prize.
Last season, Doug Kent defeated Norm Duke in the finals of the 2007 Motel 6 Roll to Riches in Columbus, Ohio, to take home $150,000 en route to his first career Player of the Year award.
About the PBA
The Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) features the best bowlers in the world competing in National, Regional and Senior Tour events. The organization has more than 4,000 members spanning 13 countries, and nearly one million viewers tune-in to watch the Denny’s PBA Tour every Sunday on ESPN throughout the season. PBA sponsors include Bayer, Brunswick, Denny's, Etonic, Flomax, GEICO, Go RVing, H&R Block, Lumber Liquidators, Motel 6, Pepsi-Cola and the USBC, among others. For more information on the PBA, log on to www.pba.com.
About Motel 6
Motel 6 offers the best price of any national chain at more than 850 company-owned and franchised locations throughout the U.S. and Canada. For 21 years Motel 6 has used the tagline, “We’ll leave the light on for you,” earning the chain the highest brand recognition in the economy lodging segment. Motel 6 was the first national pet friendly chain, welcoming pets since 1962. Standard amenities include free local phone calls, no long distance access charges, free morning coffee, data ports, and cable channel line-up with premium channels including HBO, ESPN/ESPN2, and CNN. Most locations offer swimming pools and guest laundry facilities. For more information, visit www.motel6.com.