Monday, April 28, 2008

Here & There Column 4-29-08

No Quick Fixes For Rising Gasoline Prices

No one likes to talk about it but the surge in prices at the gas pumps continues with no immediate relief in sight.
And the sad part of this situation is a majority of us do not appear to even attempt to cut back in the use of our vehicles or to plan our trips so that we can get the most bang out of our buck.
With prices in Sullivan County reaching past the $3.65 a gallon for regular it tends to make believers out of those who said we would never see $4.00 a gallon gasoline prices.
Gas prices are rising for many reasons, including oil's record run. Light sweet crude for May delivery rose to a new trading record of $119.00 before retreating to settle up $1.89 at a record $119.37 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange last week.
A quick analysis of it all finds that gas prices are nearly 66 cents higher than last year in May.
Rising gasoline prices have tightened the squeeze on drivers but what about folks who live up here in rural Sullivan County and need to drive 30 to 50 miles one way to get to their job. Where there is mass transit or subways folks are cutting back on driving and taking the subway more.
Energy Department data show Americans used about 1 percent less gas in the four weeks ended April 11 then they did a year earlier. Experts predict per-capita demand to drop further this summer unless gas prices fall.
Many who take long vacation trips in the summer are changing their summer vacation destinations as gasoline prices continue to make a bigger dent in their pocketbooks. Local folks we talk to in Sullivan County say they tend to plan their shopping and recreation trips together and do everything in one trip.
Now, the only thing as predictable as rising gas prices are the short-term political solutions that usually come along with them. Every year you see the same headlines, "Pain at the Pump" and then we start emptying our wallets to fill up our gas tanks and politicians go through the standard responses: "tax rebates and tax holidays, investigating price-gauging by oil companies."
Quite honestly we think its crunch time folks and we can no longer rely on quick fixes designed to placate an anxious public.
We need proactive solutions that are designed to lessen our dependence on foreign oil. Then we have to build cars that use less gasoline. With the technology our American and foreign car makers have their is no reason these companies cannot provide us with vehicles that get 50 to 60 miles per gallon without compromising passenger safety.
While the proposal of providing immediate relief in a suspension of the federal gas tax on gasoline from Memorial Day to Labor Day of this year would benefit the economy it would tend to be too short lived to have an overall effect on this major problem.
Proposals to replace the use of oil altogether as America's fuel of choice has great merits but the immediate benefits to us would not be seen for many years. It was interesting to read the other day that there is a company in Texas called the Sustainable Power Corporation who says they have perfected bio-fuel breakthrough and creates a crude oil equivalent at a fraction of the cost of conventional processes and they can make a bio-fuel for $42 per barrel..............if their literature and information is factual then I say bring it on as fast as you can.

Bowling Highlights Column 4-25-08

The Tri-County NY USBC Association presented engraved certificates to the four men who bowled 300 games in this years association tournament. They included, from the left, Antonio Rivera from Orange County, Joseph Powell from Orange County, Vinnie Collura from Monticello and John Hoffmann from Monticello.
Tri-County NY USBC Director Neal Bensley, center, awards Association Hall of Fame awards to Steve Brygidyr and Marilyn Quackenbush.
James Durland of Wurtsboro received the boys high game (243) net score award in the Tri-County NY USBC Association youth Major/Senior Division Tournament in Warwick this year.
Association Annual Tournament Awards Banquet

The Tri-County NY USBC Association tournaments dinner and open meeting was held on Sunday April 13 at Campbell Hall. The association includes all bowlers from Sullivan County and parts of Orange County and Ellenville Lanes in Ulster County.
Youth, women and men's tournament winners were announced.
In the 1st annual Youth Championship Tournament held March 29-30 at Pin Street Lanes in Warwick team and individual awards were given in the Prep Division, Junior Division and Major/Senior division.
Team winners in the Prep Division from Minisink Lanes was The Warriors including team mates Nick Tooley, Andrew Sorton, Jacob Loske and Brett Romer.
Team winners in the Junior Division from Minisink Lanes was the Monkees with team mates Sean Westfall, Gregory Conklin, Justin Drew and Nathan Westfall.
Team winners in the Major/Senior division from Pin Street Lanes was the Wre;cking Crew with team mates Alan Taylor Jr., Scott Dunkerly, Brian Gentilella and Eric Gentilella.
Individual awards in the Major/Senior division (15 and up) included for boys high game net James Durland (243), high series net Eric Gentilella (678), high game gross Shawn Sinistorie (280), high series gross Brian Gentilella (778).
In the girls division high game net and high game series Kaitlyn Egan (175) and (499). High game gross Karissa Rothstein (206) and high series gross Julia Rothstein (693).
In the Junior division (12-14) boys high game net went to Jordan Drew (222), high series net Kevin LeMaire (613), high game gross Nathan Wesfall (242) and high series gross Kyle Eyth (725).Girl high game net in this division went to Alexina Giovanniello (135) and high series net was won by Brittney Morgan (404),
In the Prep division (9-11) boy high game net was won by Brett R;omer (154), high series net Justin Drew (437), high game gross Krystoff Porter (221) and high series gross Gregory Conklin (668).
No awards were given for girls in this division.
In the Bant;am division (8 and under), boys high game net was awarded to Stephen Rotello (96) and high sereis net went to Nick Tooley (279). No awards for girls were given in this division.
In the Major/Senior Handicapped team division Team Kiamesha placed fourth with a 2,529 total.
In the Second Annual Open (Men's) tournament team handicap champions were Louie's Hero's with team members John Holmberg, Mark Hesleitner, Philip Geib and Louis Harford. Scratch team winners was the No Name team with team members Scott Mann, Antonio Rivera, Gary Kennedy and Joseph Powell.
Doubles handicap and scratch champions are Antonio Rivera and Neal Bensley.
Singles event handicap division champion is TC Conklin with a (809) while Scratch Champion is John Ritter.
All Events men's handicap champion is Robert Tanner (2334) and Scratch Champion is Antonio Rivera (2136).
Champions in the 2ed Annual Women's Tournament includ in the Handicap division the team of Pin Street Pizzazz with team members Peggy Needham, Laurie Seebach, Cynthia Knapp and Deborah Gardner.
In the Ladies Scratch Division champions are Yeager Realty with team members Mary Lee Williams, Dorian Jennings, Andrea Grossman and Joan Lake.
Doubles handicap champions are Barbara Goetzman and Jeanne Steuhl. Scratch divsion champions are Laura Felker and Patricia Watch.
Singles event handicap and scratch Champion is Dorian Jennings with a (710) and (665).
All Events handicap Champion is Laurie Seebach (2041) and Scratch Champion is Soly Zimmerman (1754).
The association presented special certificates to the four men who bowled 300 games including Antonio Rivera, Vinnie Collura, Joseph Powell and John Hoffmann.
Inducted into the Tri-County NY USBC Hall of Fame were Marilyn Quackenbush and Steve Brygidyr.
An enjoyable buffet dinner was enjoyed by the large group attending this annual event.

The Bowling Tip
By Mike Luongo

Bowlers: This week's tip will focus on bowling ball maintenance for all types of bowling balls.
We will focus on the bowling balls used in the modern era, but we must point out that all balls should be cleaned and maintained after each use.
we will start with plastic balls, used by new and recreational bowlers.
Plastic balls are not porous, but due to the high viscosity oils used today the oil will build up on the balls and eliminate any contact with the lane.
You can use any car care product or household cleaner to clean the ball very easily.
Plain urethane balls with no additives are very scarce in today's game, but like plastic balls they are porous and will not absorb oil and dirt. You can usethe above products to clean tthe oil and dirt off the ball.
However, if you would like to keep the ball dull, use an abrasive pad.
The most common equipment used by league and competitive bowlers is a urethane-based ball with additives commonly known as reactive additives and particles, but because every company uses chemicals from different suppliers, they must be maintained differently.
High performance balls are very porous and will absorb oil and dirt fast and diminish the performance of the ball as soon as 30 games if not maintained.
You should towel the ball off after each shot during use and clean the ball as soon as possible at the end of each bowling session.
There are several ways to clean a high performance ball. If the ball is dull and you would like to keep it that way, you can use warm water, dish detergent and a gray or burgundy pad (3m makes them) or the back of a scrubber sponge.
The gray pad will leave the ball with a 700 matte finish, burgundy at 500.
If your ball does not have a dull surface and you would like to keep the surface the same, you can use dish detergent with a rag (no abrasive) or a generic ball cleaner that is made for bowling balls and sold in bowling pro shops.
If you find that your ball works best when polished, many products are available in many different degrees of polish to give you the desired finish on the ball. Several companies sell products to match the out-of-box finish if desired.
As far as long-range maintenance, if you have your ball resurfaced and the oil extracted occasionally, your ball will perform for a much longer period of time than if neglected.
The lane finish and the amount of of oil used will determine how often the ball should be resurfaced.
Wood lanes that are relatively dry will cause the ball to track within 100 games. If the lanes have more oil, possibly 150 games depending on the condition of the lane beds.
With synthetic lanes, you get at least 50 percent more games on the ball before resurfacing.
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

Fox Bowling Center

Recent highlight scores in the Tuesday Women's Early Birds league includes a 209, 204, 561 by Tammy Kane, Lori Walker 185, 205, 529, Kathleen Maltese 193, 522, Sherry Persbacker 193, 517, Kathleen Stanton 193, 514, Anne Couse 510, Jennifer Raymond 185, 500, Karen Hunt 190 and Malinda Ferris 180.
In the Wednesday Men's Independent league Bill Gleim scored a 248, 246, 257, 751, James Dibble 228, 254, 236, 718, Donald Marino 255, 223, 237, 715, Jack Hazen 266, 237, 200, 705, Rod Pudney 243, 216, 234, 693, Andrew Bullis 224, 221, 236, 681, Carl Davis 204, 221, 254, 679, Pat Kille 199, 239, 235, 673, Lee Stanton 234, 255, 669, Jonathon Wayne 206, 221, 236, 663, Craig Conklin 235, 245, 660, Allen Bullis Sr. 218, 227, 213, 658, Tony Wright 224, 225, 200, 649, Robert Johnson 232, 234, 647, Brian Drumm 220, 230, 643, Craig Gehrig 297, 620, Robert McNaught 210, 218, 604, Jeremy Gulley 223, 603, Robert Sobas 226, 217, 602, Thomas Anderson 225, Josh Rice 225, Richard Price 238 ansd Charlie DeCristofaro 223.
In the Deposit Men's National league Rick Mills scored a 288, 231, 708, Jamie Murphy 224, 232, 233, 689, Jeff Curtis 267, 195, 206, 668, Chris Conway 233, 225, 199, 657, Tony Wright 211, 208, 236, 655, Paul Ignatovich 224, 194, 230, 648, Andrew Bullis 249, 213, 645, Ray Cornwell 226, 225, 641, Carl Davis 247, 625, Robert Johnson 223, 207, 614, Steve Hopkins 221, 219, 613, Lee Stanton 227, 230, 606, Paul Fritz 207, 202, Neil Mosher 230 and John Lanner 237.
In the Friday Couples league Matthew Johnson scored a 211, 213, 224, 648, Gary Resti 212, 202, 607, Andy Bullis 247, 606, Jason Mead 605, Bill Gleim 220, James Dibble 232, 220, Anne Couse 214, 194, 579, Hope Jones 199, 525, Sandy Winans 191, 514, Michelle Brush 196, Jennifer Smith 191, Crystal Ellis 184 and Judy Ellis 182.

Kiamesha Lanes

Recent highlight scores in the Tuesday Mixed Firefighters league include a 298, 727 by Neil Bell Jr. Kris Gwiozdowsk i238, Russ Keesler 237, 646, John Hoffmann 650, Roberta Yakin 235, 593, Debbie Durland 204, Lisa Cartwright 201, 548 and Dorian Jennings 541.
KULICK READY FOR TOUGH TASK OF DEFENDING USBC QUEENS TITLE

GREENDALE, Wis. - Even without a professional women's bowling tour, defending United States Bowling Congress Queens champion Kelly Kulick of Union, N.J., says the fields are getting stronger each year in the few major women's events that remain.

Kulick will take on a tough field of more than 300 of the best women bowlers in the world when she attempts to defend her Queens title starting April 26 at Super Bowl Lanes in the Detroit suburb of Canton, Mich. The finals of the event will be televised live from Skore Lanes in Taylor, Mich., by ESPN2 on April 30 at 7 p.m. Eastern.

"I believe the fields today are stronger than they used to be with international bowlers coming over and the incredible number of tough collegiate bowlers," said Kulick, a current Team USA member. "There are so many talented players that there are no easy matches in the Queens anymore. It's a tough road to the top, and hopefully I'll be prepared enough."

Heading into last year's Queens, Kulick was by far the most tested and practiced player in the field. She had just come off an historic season in which she was the first woman to earn an exemption on the Denny's Professional Bowlers Association Tour and was as sharp as she had ever been in her bowling career.

"Bowling on the men's tour for a full season gave me a lot of on-lane preparation," said Kulick, who will automatically be seeded into match play as defending champion. "I don't feel like I've spent as much time on the lanes leading up to this year's Queens, but mentally I feel like I'm ready. I've taken the last few months to get in the gym and train. Hopefully, I'll be able to get to the point I was at last year and walk into those shoes to find the same level of success."

Should Kulick come away with another victory, she would become just the fifth woman to successfully defend a Queens title, joining Katsuko Sugimoto (1981, 1982), Donna Adamek (1979, 1980), Dorothy Fathergill (1972, 1973) and Mildred Ignizio (1970-71). Kulick also would become the seventh woman with multiple Queens titles.

The Queens kicks off with 10 qualifying games over two days before the field is cut to the top 100 for five additional qualifying games. The top 63 then advance to join Kulick in double-elimination match play, which begins at 1 p.m. April 28. The final five players will advance to the televised stepladder finals.

The qualifying and match play portions of the Queens at Super Bowl Lanes are open to the public at no charge. A limited number of tickets for the televised finals at Skore Lanes will be sold for $10 and can be purchased at either bowling center starting April 26.

For complete coverage of the USBC Queens, including stories, results and photos once the event begins, 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.

Bowl with US

# # #Watch bowling like never beforeBowling's Clash of Championshttp://www.bowl.com/clashSaturday, May 10th - 5 PM ETSunday, May 11th - 4 PM ETon CBS Sports
ASBATY TO LEAD BOWLING CLINIC, EXHIBITION IN SINGAPORE

GREENDALE, Wis.-* Diandra Asbaty, one of the world*s best female
bowlers, will share her knowledge of the sport with bowlers in Southeast
Asia when she hosts a bowling clinic and exhibition in June in
Singapore.
Asbaty, a 10-time United States Bowling Congress Team USA member and a
USBC Silver coach, will lead the event titled *Kaizen by diandra: The
World Academy* scheduled for June 1-2 at Orchid Bowl @ SAFRA Tampines.
Asbaty*s clinic, sponsored by Brunswick, will coincide with the 41st
Singapore International Open May 22-31.
Both days of the clinic will consist of morning classroom seminars with
topics ranging from establishing strong bowling fundamentals to
Asbaty*s Team USA experiences. The afternoon sessions will include
on-lanes coaching from Asbaty and her assistants, stressing fundamental
physical game skills such as proper timing, arm swing and release
followed by an autograph session. Asbaty said she plans to use the USBC
Coaching Athlete Development Drills kit * a guidebook and DVD set
featuring Asbaty herself * which details and demonstrates 29 drills
that help coaches teach bowling fundamentals. The Athlete Development
Drills kit is available for purchase on bowl.com.
The clinic*s primary focus will be on young bowlers. Organizers are
targeting between 100 and 250 intermediate level bowlers between the
ages of 12 and 25 as well as students from the Singapore Sports School
and the Singapore national youth team.
*I am a big believer in solid fundamentals,* said Asbaty, USBC
Youth Spokesperson. *I will be able to teach these fundamentals
properly because I have had some of the best coaching in the world
throughout my bowling career. This is a chance for me to spread my
knowledge to others.*
The event was created through Alfinity Bowling, a Singapore company
with a global network that provides access to bowling-related services
and products, including coaching. The company has been working to
develop a coaching curriculum with Agape Bowling Academy, a program
which reaches bowlers from junior high through college age.
USBC Bronze coaches Simon Yio, David Wong and Aloysius Pek from
Alfinity Bowling will be assistant instructors at the clinic.
*This program was created to provide students, league bowlers and
other bowling enthusiasts an opportunity to learn from the world's top
female bowler,* said Pek, Alfinity business development manager.
Alfinity was instrumental in organizing the first USBC Bronze coaching
certification program in Southeast Asia in Singapore last year. Rafael
"Paeng" Nepomuceno of the Philippines, a USBC Silver coach and Silver
Instructor, international Ambassador and four-time World Cup champion,
conducted the conference and, with a group of international coaches,
trained and certified 23 USBC Level I and Bronze coaches, including Pek.

*I hope to share knowledge that I have been so fortunate to gain from
the coaches I have had the opportunity to work with,* said Asbaty, a
Chicago resident and member of the USBC Board of Directors. *I hope to
inspire bowlers from Singapore to gain even more of an appreciation of
our great sport and to touch lives through bowling. The talent in
Singapore is already great. I*m looking forward to bringing a fresh
perspective to the Singapore bowling world.*
Asbaty has won nearly 50 medals in international competition. In 2007,
Asbaty won titles in four countries and was named the World Bowling
Writers Female Bowler of the Year for the second straight year, the
first ever to accomplish that feat. She won the Masters gold medal at
the Women's World Championships in Monterrey, Mexico, finished first at
the World Ranking Masters in Lake Wales, Fla., earned a gold medal in
doubles at the Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and took
home the title at the Panama Invitational Tournament in Panama City,
Panama.
United States Bowling Congress
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.
Bowl with US

Watch bowling like never before
Bowling's Clash of Champions
http://www.bowl.com/clash
Saturday, May 10th - 5 PM ET
Sunday, May 11th - 4 PM ET
on CBS Sports
CLASH OF CHAMPIONS PROFILES: KELLY KULICK, SEAN RASH

GREENDALE, Wis. - As the unique made-for-television event Bowling's Clash of Champions, presented by the United States Bowling Congress and Strike Ten Entertainment, gets closer, USBC is profiling each of the 16 participants in the event. Visit bowlTV on bowl.com for exclusive video interviews with each participant.

The Clash will bring together 16 champions of USBC events and the U.S. Open ranging in age from teenagers to seniors competing for $100,000 in prize money on national television. The event will take place May 7-8 at the USBC Convention in Kansas City, Mo., and taped for broadcast on CBS Sports May 10 from 5-6 p.m. Eastern and May 11 from 4-5 p.m. Eastern.

MEET KELLY KULICK AND SEAN RASH

* How they qualified: Kelly Kulick won the 2007 USBC Queens in Charlotte, N.C., in May while Sean Rash claimed the title at the 2007 USBC Masters in October in Milwaukee.

* About Kelly Kulick: In 2006, Kulick, 31, of Union, N.J., became the first woman to qualify for the PBA Tour's exempt field and went on to compete in 19 events during the 2006-07 Denny's PBA Tour season. She was PWBA Rookie of the Year in 2001 and, two years later, won her first tour title by taking the 2003 U.S. Women's Open. A three-time Collegiate Bowler of the Year at Morehead State, Kulick also was a four-time Team USA member and the 2000 U.S. Amateur champion.

* Kulick's thoughts: "This event is something new and exciting. To me, it's another opportunity that I am fortunate to be able to take part in."

* About the USBC Queens: With the richest prize fund in women's bowling, the USBC Queens attracts a field of nearly 350 of the top amateur and professional bowlers in the world battling for $200,000. Along with the U.S. Women's Open, the USBC Queens is one of two televised women's championship events.

* About Sean Rash: Rash, 25, of Wichita, Kan., is one of the up-and-coming stars in the sport of bowling. He became the first bowler in PBA Tour history to win a title after qualifying for an event through the Denny's PBA Tour Qualifying Round when he won the 2006 West Virginia Championship in his rookie season. In four career television appearances, he has a 7-0 record with four titles.

* Rash's thoughts: "I know I am excited just to be part of this event and honored that USBC is taking time to host an event for us. I like the arena setting, and I'm going to go there to have a good time and just see what happens."

* About the USBC Masters: A major on the Denny's PBA Tour, the USBC Masters is one of the sport's most prestigious events. The Masters features a field of nearly 500 amateur and professional bowlers and a prize fund of $350,000, one of the richest purses in all of bowling.

* On the web: Learn more about the Clash on bowl.com/clash and watch exclusive interviews with Kulick and Rash on bowlTV.


United States Bowling Congress
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.

Bowl with US

# # #


Watch bowling like never before
Bowling's Clash of Champions
http://www.bowl.com/clash
Saturday, May 10th - 5 PM ET
Sunday, May 11th - 4 PM ET
on CBS Sports

Monday, April 21, 2008

Here & There Column 4-22-08

Spy Gate Issue Being Covered Up By Democrats

Our recent coffee klatsch get together started out with a statement, "well I guess the Democrats on the Sullivan County legislature are attempting to bury the spying incident that took place recently against Republican Legislator David Sager."
As we poured our first cup of coffee it felt like this might be an explosive discussion being that our group consists of three Republicans and three Democrats but our klatsch as usual all did their homework and were prepared to openly discuss this issue strictly on what has taken place and also what has not taken place.
Following a recent pay hike approval for Legislative Aide Alexis Eggleton the question came up that she may have to answer some questions about allegedly inappropriate partisan activity on her part.
One of our coffee klatsch members said he had spoken directly with Republican David Sager and Sager pointed out that this inappropriate partisan activity is based on a misdirected text message authorized by Eggleton and sent from her personal cell phone. The message was apparently intended for County Manager David Fanslau and appeared to be an update on Sager's activities regarding the pending contract renewal for Fanslau.
The District One legislator said the message on his cell phone read, "FYI: Sager was down the hall for an hour and when he came back he had me pull the resolution for Thursday re: your contract and said it was not what JR (Democratic Legislative Chair Jonathan Rouis) said it was."
At least four of our Coffee Klatsch members gave strong indications that this 'spying" issue should not be taken lightly and no one working for government has the right to keep tabs on what the legislators are doing as they come and go throughout the Sullivan County Government Center.
Sager has stated, "at what point is it permissible for her to report my actions and inquiries (so long as they were within the parameters of my elected office) to the county manager or any other official."
The Klatsch all totally agreed that this is indeed a form of spying and it indeed shows a whole subversive level to government.
As we poured our second cup of Java and enjoyed our home baked donuts several in our group issued statements like "this is an abuse of power and its unethical and total insubordination.
It has been reported that several Democrat legislators conceded that the text message to Sager did not look good, was inappropriate and that some level of investigation into this matter might be in order.
Several in our coffee klatsch said they have had numerous conversations with rank and file county employees who have all expressed total support for Sager and who support a high level investigation into this spying issue and text message that was sent to Sager by mistake.
The Klatsch unanimously called upon the five Sullivan County Democrat legislators to do the right thing here but. if they attempt to bury this issue they will be heard from the next time they run for office.

Friday, April 18, 2008

Bowling Highlights Column 4-18-08

Donald Durland
Eddie Walsh
Kyle Stevens

Parker Bohn III with his $150,000 check.
Walsh And Durland Score 300 Games

Sixteen-year-old Kiamesha Lanes Saturday Morning Youth League bowler Eddie Walsh scored his first career 300 on March 30 and 20-year-old Donald Durland banged out his fifth career 300 on April 4.
Walsh on March 30 scored a 300 in his first game and added a 154 and a 168 for a 622 series.
The scores were bowled on lanes 3 and 4 using a Monster Bruiser bowling ball.
Eddie, a Junior at Monticello High School also recorded this season a 279 single score and a 612 series.
Bowling for some 11 years Walsh presently maintains a 169 average.
His Saturday morning team mates include Nick Price, Scott Bock, Brianna DeGraw and Shawn Sinistorie.
He is the son of Leanne and Ed Walsh.
While subbing in the Friday Night Mixed league for Tom Skiff Jr. on April 4, Donald Durland started out with a 201, added a 248 and then recorded his fifth career 300 on lanes 5 and 6.for a 749 series.
His previous high series was bowled recently in the Monday Men's league at Kiamesha when he recorded a 268, 249, 279, 796.
Donald recorded this 300 game with a Ebonite Maxim plastic bowling ball.
His team mates for the night included Cathy Carpenter, Gregg Skiff and Joan Ellington.
Donald has been bowling since he was five-years old and his present average is 216.
Duran bowls in three leagues at Kiamesha Lanes and subs in leagues at Ellenville Lanes and Colonial Lanes in Chester.
Donald is single and is employed by Johnston's Toyota in Monticello.
Brought up and raised in a bowling family, Donald is the son of Paul and Debbie Durland of Wurtsboro.

Bowling Tip
By Mike Luongo

Bowlers: This week's tip- is a reminder that although there are so many aggressive, high performance balls available, the main component of the sport is having a sharp game and becoming a good shot maker.
Lane conditions have become very soft and that combination with today's bowling balls has led to high scoring conditions making the majority of today's bowlers very complacent about working on their physical game. However, the sport of bowling is making a comeback as can be seen in some of the newer Sport Bowling Leagues so knowing how to adjust to varying lane conditions and understanding how to use today's bowling balls is only part of the equation.
For those bowlers who want to maximize their potential in this sport, I cannot stress enough the importance of finding a qualified and certified bowling instructor . Even more preferable, you should work with an instructor who uses video technology to completely analyze your game.
For example, we use the Brunswick Pro Trainer system which gives us the ability to replay a student's shots in slow motion, show them what adjustments need to be made and compare them to the highest caliber bowlers in the world.....best of all......the student is able to take a video home to study and watch at their convenience.
The knowledge you gain from a Certified Instructor is knowledge that will be useful to you and will stay with you throughout your bowling life.
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

Kyle Stevens Having
An Outstanding Season

Liberty Lanes bowler Kyle Stevens is enjoying an outstanding 2007-2008 bowling season.
Just recently on April 2 he bowled a 268, 276, 278, 822 in the Wednesday Men's league while using a Brunswick Twisted Fury bowling ball on lanes 3 and 4. This was Kyle's third 800 series this year as he scored a 300, 300, 279, 839 on November 29, 2007 and a 248, 253, 300, 801 on January 10.
Two other perfect 300 games were scored on December 6, 2007 and on /December 7, 2007.
Kyle is presently averaging 228 in the Wednesday Men's league, 230 in the Thursday Men's Doubles league and 224 in the Friday Mixed league, all at Liberty Lanes.
He presently has to his bowling credits four career 800's and nine career 300's.
Kyle is single and is employed by Liberty Lanes.

Local Scores

Callicoon Lanes

Recent highlight scores in the Monday Hortonville Ladies league includes a 199, 187, 556 by Lil Zieres, Pat Peters 180 and Rebecca Rhodes 186.
In the Tuesday Delaware Valley Men's league Mike Cole scored a 208, Dennis Brockner 224, Don Hill 203, Eric Nystrom 216, Mark Herbert 213, 213, 619, Russell Yerkes 214, 210, Walter Yanacek 197, Jon Wayne 199, Gary Erlwein 198, 202, Jackie Brockner 203, Roger Miller 207, Tom Schultz 227, 608, Mark Garro 195, Mike Hubbard 211 and Kris Rasmussen 199.
In the Wednesday Mixed Businessmen's league Brian Marino scored a 221, 211, 607 Tom Russell 226, Damien Vanleuven 202, 209, Justin Lopez 222, Bob Cady 248, 242, 658, Ed Townsend 223, 199, 613, John Hoffmann 202, 213, 604, Shirley Townsend 183, 191, 544, Peter Flanagan 224, Mike Beseth 222, 210, 602, Kory Kessler 203, 257, 653, Bruce Rutledge 212, Mike Hubbard 206, Dave Maus 222, 215, 617 and Roger Widmann 209.

Fox Bowling Center

Recent highlight scores in the Tuesday Ladies Earl Birds league include a 183, 186, 538 by Melinda Ferris, Sherry Persbacker 193, 531, Kathleen Maltese 189, 528, Lori Walker 184, 522, Leslie Caskey 191, Michelle Wormuth 187 and Diane Miller 186.
In the Wednesday Men's Independent league Tony Wright scored a 223, 253, 224, 700, Rod Pudney 247, 223, 223, 693, Bill Gleim 202, 235, 246, 683, Robert Johnson 240, 255, 675, Lee Stanton 214, 196, 247, 657, Carl Davis 256, 210, 656, Jerry Kulakosky 258, 212, 649, Donald Marino 247, 201, 641, Brian Tiffany 255, 641, Allen Bullis Sr. 244, 222, 635, Jim Thompson 242, 202, 634, Neil Mosher 232, 212, 629, Pat Kille 236, 215, 623, Marc Fino 204, 226, 622, Jack Hazen 203, 223, 612, Brian Drumm 215, 201, 602, Daniel Wormuth 215, Frank Couse 258, brian Robinson 244 and Jay Wormuth 229.
In the Deposit Men's National league Paul Ignatovich bowled a 209, 237, 637, Al Bullis Jr. 249, 214, 633, Carl Davis 205, 222, 619, Shane Merwin 201, 201, 216, 618, Jim Valentine 215, 202, 611, Brad Tracy 204, 202, 204, 610, Robert Johnson 233, 608, Marc Cetta 225, 607, Tony Wright 218, Paul Fritz 226, Ray Cornwell 235, Rick Mills 222, Don Ferris 246, Harold Morgan 229 and Neil Mosher 213.
In the Friday Couples league Daniel Wormuth scored a 239, 226, 238, 703, James Dibble 210, 219, 215, 644, Andy Bullis 232, 214, 634, Bill Gleim 236, 227, 623, Matthew Johnson 244, 621, Gino Jones 222, 204, 609, Crystal Ellis 247, 584, Sandy Winans 201, 187, 559, Brian Tiffany 212, Adam Forrester 210, Hope Jones 189, 504 and Susan Clark 185.

Kiamesha Lanes

Recent highlight scores in the Tuesday Mixed Firefighters league include a 257 by Charles Blackburn , Russ Keesler 253, 642, John Hoffmann 246, 686, Donald Durland 652, Debbie Durland 221, 636, Joan Lake 205, 584, Mary Lee Williams 201 and Donna DuBois 201, 574.
PARKER BOHN WINS MOTEL 6 ROLL TO RICHES

ORLANDO, Fla. – With his three kids looking on – completely unaware of the magnitude of what he was doing – Parker Bohn III secured his family’s future with six strikes on Sunday April 13.
Bohn defeated Norm Duke, six-strikes-to-five, in the final “Race to Six Strikes” to win the Professional Bowlers Association’s Motel 6 Roll to Riches special event, taking home the $150,000 winner-take-all top prize.
The PBA Hall of Famer is fifth all-time with 31 Denny’s PBA Tour titles and ranks third with nearly $2.7 million in career earnings. But the $150,000 paycheck tripled any other top prize Bohn had secured in one day in his career.
Bohn earned a berth in the six-bowler event by winning an online fan vote, beating out 15 other PBA stars. In his first career Motel 6 Roll to Riches appearance, he denied Duke his third big-money win in six weeks. The only bowler to compete in all four Roll to Riches events, Duke won the 2008 Denny’s World Championship and the 65th Denny’s U.S. Open for a combined $150,000 in just over a month. But he was unable to double that amount and lost in the Race to Six Strikes for the second straight year after falling to Doug Kent in 2007.
The match was close throughout as both bowlers struck with their first two shots. Duke faltered first when he left the 10-pin with his third shot and Bohn took the lead by striking with his next. Bohn would never lose the lead, although he was threatened more than once by Duke.
Bohn had his first chance to take a two-strike advantage when Duke left another 10-pin in the fourth frame but Bohn also left a 10-pin and the score remained 3-2.
After both bowlers struck in the fifth frame, Duke left the four-pin in the sixth giving Bohn a second chance to put him on the ropes, but despite a pocket hit he left the 7-pin to keep Duke in the match.
Duke pulled even with his fourth strike in the seventh but Bohn responded to put himself one strike away from victory. After Duke struck for the fifth time, Bohn needed one strike for victory. With $150,000 on the line, Bohn threw a perfect shot to win in his Roll to Riches debut.
“What an unbelievable day,” Bohn (Jackson, N.J.) said. “I never dreamed this could come true. Thank God it did, because I need the money for a college fund. I’ve got a couple kids on their way there.
“You dream of getting up in the 10th - or sixth frame as it was today – and throwing the great shot you want to win a great title or money. You dream it many times and for it to come true is a great feeling.”
Bohn advanced to the title match with a 160-106 win over his brother-in-law, Kent (Newark, N.Y.). Bohn recovered from a spare in the second to strike with his final six shots for the win. All Elimination Round and Semifinal Round contests featured six-frame matches with a max score of 180.
Duke (Clermont, Fla.) advanced to the final match for the second consecutive season with a 146-124 win over two-time Motel 6 Roll to Riches winner Chris Barnes (Double Oak, Texas). Duke trailed early but rallied after Barnes had back-to-back nine spares in the fourth and fifth frames and Duke capitalized by striking with his final five shots. That forced Barnes to double and get nine pins for the win but Barnes left the 2-10 with his first shot in the 10th to give Duke the come-from-behind win.
Barnes had advanced with a 137-117 win over Sean Rash (Wichita, Kan.), who was making his Roll to Riches debut, while Kent defeated Michael Haugen Jr. (Cave Creek, Ariz.), who also making his first Roll to Riches appearance.
The event started with the Challenge Round, where bowlers participated in one-ball roll offs with the lowest score after each frame moving into the Elimination Round and the two surviving bowlers earning byes into the Semifinal Round. In the first roll-off, Rash had a six-count to drop into the Elimination Round while Haugen was the next bowler knocked out with an eight count.
In the third round, Barnes and Kent managed nine counts while Duke and Bohn both struck to earn the two byes into the Semifinal Round. Bohn’s victory meant that all four Motel 6 Roll to Riches events have been won by a bowler who earned a bye into the Semifinal Round through the Challenge Round.


Denny’s PBA Tour
Motel 6 Roll to Riches
Colonial Lanes
Orlando, Fla.
Sunday, April 13

CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND
(Race to Six Strikes.)

Parker Bohn III, Jackson, N.J. def. Norm Duke, Clermont, Fla., 6-5.

SEMIFINAL ROUND
(Six-frame matches, max score of 180)

Bohn def. Doug Kent, Newark, N.Y., 160-106. Kent eliminated.
Duke def. Chris Barnes, Double Oak, Texas, 146-124. Barnes eliminated.

ELIMINATION ROUND
(Six-frame matches, max score of 180)

Kent def. Michael Haugen Jr., Cave Creek, Ariz., 114-112. Haugen eliminated.
Barnes def. Sean Rash, Wichita, Kan., 137-117. Rash eliminated.

CHALLENGE ROUND
(One ball roll-offs. Lowest score in each frame moves into Elimination Round. Two remaining bowlers earn byes into Semifinal Round.)

1st Frame – Kent 10, Haugen 9, Bohn 9, Barnes 9, Duke 9, Rash 6. Rash drops into Elimination Round.
2nd Frame – Bohn 10, Barnes 10, Duke, Kent 9, Haugen 8. Haugen drops into Elimination Round.
3rd Frame – Duke 10, Bohn 10, Kent 9, Barnes 9
Duke and Bohn earn byes into Semifinal Round.
USBC COACH JASNAU OFFERS TEAM COACHING IN ALBUQUERQUE
Bowlers play on same Sport Bowling oil pattern they'll face at Open Championships

GREENDALE, Wis. ­- Bowlers now have the opportunity to prepare for the 2008 USBC Open Championships by attending a coaching and practice session in Albuquerque, N.M., from USBC Silver coach and former professional bowler Mike Jasnau.

Available to all USBC Open competitors, Jasnau's team sessions are being held throughout the run of the Championships at Holiday Bowl, 7515 Lomas Blvd., N.E., in Albuquerque, site of the USBC/Storm Bowlers Journal Championships.

Teams taking advantage of the session bowl on a pair of lanes freshly dressed with the Open Championships lane oil pattern, which this year for the first time is compliant with USBC Sport Bowling guidelines. Bowlers also will learn the concepts of team lane play (such as strategies for breaking down the oil pattern) and determine which balls in their arsenals can work best on the Open lane conditions.

Considered one of the country's top bowling instructors, Jasnau has improved the games of countless numbers of bowlers during the last 10 years while giving lessons with video analysis and the Computer Aided Tracking System at the Lane 81 Pro Shop inside the National Bowling Stadium, in Reno, Nev. He is a former PBA champion and currently is on the Storm instructional staff.

Several bowlers and teams that have taken advantage of Jasnau's coaching sessions have scored well at the Open.

"This allows bowlers to come as a team, bowl on the Open pattern, get an idea how the pattern may break down and find out what kind of ball surface and cover stock could work," Jasnau said. "It's most effective for teams with bowlers from different parts of the country who don't get to bowl together. The good teams work together with communication. That takes practice. Even teams that do bowl together at home don't always have time to practice together. Everyone is busy. While they're here together, they get to bowl on Open pattern. It's also a great way to expose bowlers to USBC coaching."

As word spreads about the coaching service, times are getting booked quickly. It's recommended that teams call ahead to reserve their coaching sessions. Teams already are reserving spots for June, Jasnau said.

Cost is $150 per hour for a maximum 10-member team or as low as $15 per bowler. To schedule a team practice session, call Mike Jasnau at (505) 304-0984.

United States Bowling Congress
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.

Bowl with US

# # #Watch bowling like never beforeBowling's Clash of Championshttp://www.bowl.com/clashSaturday, May 10th - 5 PM ETSunday, May 11th - 4 PM ETon CBS Sports
TEAMMATES REMEMBER BOWLING LEGEND
JOE NORRIS AT USBC OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - Eight years ago, United States Bowling Congress Hall of Famer Joe Norris of San Diego marched into the Albuquerque Convention Center for his record-tying 71st USBC Open Championships appearance and returned home with an untouchable career pinfall record.

Although Norris died at age 93, just before he was scheduled to bowl at the 2001 Open Championships in Reno, Nev., his memory and spirit live on inside the tournament venue, especially this year as the event makes its return to Albuquerque.

For those who bowled with Norris in 2000, it's hard to forget the late legend's emotional final effort in which he bowled doubles with fellow hall of famer Dick Weber and then threw two strikes in his final frame of singles to finish his tournament career with a 201 game and a career pinfall of 123,770.

"The standing ovation was long and loud, and one I'll never forget," said Victor "Frenchy" Letourneau, Norris' long-time teammate and doubles partner. "Many people were in awe of this amazing 92-year-old. Joe was a dear friend, and all of us who knew him still feel the void."

Norris' first Open Championships appearance came at the 1926 event in Toledo, Ohio, and the only year he missed, besides 1943-45 when the tournament was not held because of World War II, was in 1942 due to an emergency appendectomy.

During his 71-year Open Championships career, a record he shares with the late Bill Doehrman of Fort Wayne, Ind., Norris posted a 192.78 average for 642 games and collected three titles (Regular Team in 1934 and 1954 and Team All-Events in 1954).

And while his name is synonymous with the Open Championships, Norris also became legend across the bowling world and even had a hand in the sport's ongoing Olympic effort.

"Coming back to Albuquerque is a little sad, and I remember so many things we did together over the years," said Andrew Gagliano, Norris' teammate, who also helped him get around in his later years. "He was a pistol to be with, and I keep thinking that it's not possible that it has been eight years already. There's just so much that can't be erased out of your memory. Joe had an infectious charisma, and I wish he was still here. You just can't ask for a better friend or bowling partner."

After Norris' death, Gagliano inherited all of his bowling equipment and memorabilia, but received specific instructions that Letourneau was to be the benefactor of the Brunswick Zone bowling ball that Norris threw in his final Open Championships appearance.

Each year, Letourneau honors Norris by throwing the very same ball on his first official shot of the year, and following Norris' death, Gagliano and Letourneau changed the name of their team to Team Joe Norris.

"Andy gave me that last ball Joe rolled, and I take it with me it to Nationals every year," said Letourneau, who rolled a seven count on his opening shot this year. "I use it as my first ball in team, so the score does not matter. The span is too wide, and the holes are too loose, but I've been pretty lucky over the years. This is just our way of keeping Joe in the tournament every year."

This year, Team Joe Norris posted a 2,766 team total. Randy Taylor led the way with a 633 series and was followed by Michael Bodien (578), Dan Starkey (561), Gagliano (539) and Letourneau (455).

Presenting sponsors for the 2008 USBC Open Championships are Eldorado Hotel Casino, Silver Legacy Resort Casino and Circus Circus Reno in Reno, Nev. Other participating sponsors are Kegel, official lane maintenance provider; Brunswick, capital equipment supplier; Storm Products, Inc.; Roto Grip, official sponsor of the Roto Grip Sport Bowling Challenge; Isleta Casino & Resort; Santa Ana Star Casino, the official brackets sponsor; Rainbow Ryders, the exclusive hot air balloon company of the 2008 Open Championships; and Sandia Resort & Casino.

For more information on the USBC Open Championships, visit USBCopen.com.

2008 USBC OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS
At Albuquerque Convention Center, Albuquerque, N.M.

(Top 10 division leaders with hometown and pinfalls)

REGULAR DIVISION

Team

1, Marcor Technologies (Ward Rauch, Greg Gildner, Ben Goergen, Dan Wood Jr., Mark Corbiser), Gaylord, Mich., 3,235. 2, K & K Bowling Service 1, Henderson, Nev., 3,208. 3, Cambridge 1, Feeding Hills, Mass., 3,201. 4, Buddy Tierno Senior Tour, Mount Laurel, N.J., 3,197. 5, Pollard's Bowl, Versailles, Ind., 3,176. 6, Janz's H.I., Beaver Dam, Wis., 3,174. 7, Lodge Lanes 1, Saline, Mich., 3,172. 8, Sign Producers 1, Winter Garden, Fla., 3,162. 9, Ewash Men, Yakima, Wash., 3,158. 10, MoRich Enterprises, West Bend, Wis., 3,154.

Doubles

1, John Socha, Oak Creek, Wis./Dennis Rakauskas, Apopka, Fla., 1,467. 2, Todd Koehler, Appleton, Minn./Doug Blood, Montevideo, Minn., 1,444. 3, Erik Mattingly, Puyallup, Wash./Robert Hanson, Tacoma, Wash., 1,441. 4, Patrick Smart/Ricky Meneley, Santa Maria, Calif., 1,404. 5, Dan Guerrieri/Joe Nuzzo, Youngstown, Ohio, 1,401. 6, George Aboud, San Jose, Calif.,/Jeff Frankos, Daly City, Calif., 1,399. 7, Marc Levy/Cathedral City, Calif./Vincent Wood, Moreno Valley, Calif., 1,398. 8, Les Zikes, Palatine, Ill./Hank Sorensen, Rolling Meadows, Ill., 1,389. 9, Scot Hardesty, Chicago/Ron Davis, Orland Park, Ill., 1,388. 10, Jeff Lunde/Joe Crenshaw, Racine, Wis., 1,384.

Singles

1, Jason Price, Grand Island, Neb., 817. 2, Wilbert Moorer, Dover, Del., 784. 3, Warren Crawford, McKinleyville, Calif., 779. 4, William Uthoff, O'Fallon, Mo., 775. 5, Alan Pecora, Drums, Pa., 773. 6, Mike Preston, High Springs, Fla., 764. 7, Greg Benefield, Lees Summit, Mo., 763. 8, Mike Leonard, Front Royal, Va., 762. 9, Andrew Udahl, Elk Grove, Calif., 761. 10, Eddie Martin, Hanford, Calif., 758.

All-Events

1, Randy Weiss, Columbia, S.C., 2,160. 2, Warren Crawford, McKinleyville, Calif., 2,159. 3, Edward Gallagher, Clarksville, Tenn., 2,141. 4, Brian Diede, Huron, S.D., 2,113. 5, Jeff Jensen, Fall River, Kan., 2,111. 6, David Beres, Waukesha, Wis., 2,094. 7, John Gaines, Orlando, Fla., 2,092. 8, Richard Thomas, Middleton, Wis., 2,086. 9, Alan Pecora, Drums, Pa., 2,082. 10 (tie), William Uthoff, O'Fallon, Mo., and John Janawicz, Winter Haven, Fla., 2,065.

Team All-Events

1, MoRich Enterprises (Ben Hoefs, John Socha, Jace Peterson, Brian Brazeau, Dennis Rakauskas), West Bend, Wis., 9,901. 2 (tie), S & B Pro Shop 2, Sterling Heights, Mich., and Pam's Boys 1, Salem, Ore., 9,736. 4, Pollard's Bowl, Versailles, Ind., 9,708. 5, Lodge Lanes 1, Saline, Mich., 9,664. 6, ABC Souvenirs, Fall River, Kan., 9,637. 7, Red Carpet Lanes, Waukesha, Wis., 9,597. 8, Bogart's 1, Mankato, Minn., 9,543. 9, Linds Limited, Sussex, Wis., 9,527. 10, Ebonite HQ, Hopkinsville, Ky., 9,501.

CLASSIFIED DIVISION

Team

1, Lake Country Rollers (Butch Booker, Dave Lisson, Wayne Booker, Michael Booker, Danny Booker), Clarissa, Minn., 2,799. 2, T-Rays, Jamestown, N.D., 2,795. 3, Garden Center Lanes 2, Alexandria, Minn., 2,789. 4, Plattsburgh Bowl, Plattsburgh, Mo., 2,773. 5, Sego Electric, Clarion, Iowa, 2,759. 6, Lady Pros, Albuquerque, N.M., 2,748. 7, Firenab 2, Lincoln, Neb., 2,745. 8, Red Carpet, Sauk Centre, Minn., 2,744. 9, Suburban Lanes, Meade Kan., 2,687. 10, Jokers, Havelock, N.C., 2,679.

Doubles

1, Jim Kohlman, St. Paul, Minn./Michael Roscoe, White Bear Lake, Minn., 1,196. 2 (tie), Lenny Boogaard, Osakis, Minn./Larry Sorenson, West Union, Minn., and Sue Kendall, Converse, Ind./Jeffrey Kistler, Marion, Ind., 1,184. 4, Butch Booker, Clarissa, Minn./Dave Lisson, Browerville, Minn., 1,181. 5, Myron Asleson/Tony Haugen, Devils Lake, N.D., 1,179. 6 (tie), Jim Selgo, Phoenix/Doug Krauss, Archbold, Ohio, and Mark Powell/Barry Fortner, Hobbs, N.M., 1,173. 8, Rich Ayers Jr., Webster City, Iowa/Darrell Pedersen, Eagle Grove, Iowa, 1,166. 9, Larry Kubasiak/Duane Kubasiak, Bronson, Mich., 1,165. 10, Gary Tomhave/Michael Donley, Fergus Falls, Minn., 1,163.

Singles

1, Tim Wagner, Hardin, Mont., 669. 2, Jeffrey Kistler, Marion, Ind., 668. 3, John Zapalac, Bishop, Texas, 662. 4, Randy Gaines, Austin, Minn., 658. 5, Ed Wethington, Poplar Grove, Ill., 657. 6 (tie), Dale Fuller, Otter Lake, Mich., and Bill Ingram, Aloha, Ore., 648. 8, Stefanie Suntum, Montrose, Colo., 647. 9, (tie), Lynn Parker, Berwick, La., and Mike Leblanc, New Iberia, La., 644.

All-Events

1, Jeffrey Kistler, Marion, Ind., 1,887. 2, Troy Schultz, Clarion, Iowa, 1,820. 3, Dave Lisson, Browerville, Minn., 1,815. 4, Glenn Shields, Bowling Green, Ohio, 1,791. 5, Hartsell Duhart, Compton, Calif., 1,789. 6, John Albaugh, Colorado Springs, Colo., 1,773. 7, Bob Godden, Las Vegas, 1,764. 8, Larry Kubasiak, Bronson, Mich., 1,764. 9, Ken Iredale, Oxfordshire, England, 1,754. 10, Bill Garrett, Hampton, Neb., 1,746.

# # #

Watch bowling like never before
Bowling's Clash of Champions
http://www.bowl.com/clash
Saturday, May 10th - 5 PM ET
Sunday, May 11th - 4 PM ET
on CBS Sports
HAMMER WOMEN’S TEAM SETS NEW NATIONAL 5-WOMAN TEAM RECORD

HOPKINSVILLE, Kent. – The Hammer brand is once again in the winner’s circle – this time breaking a national record! On March 27, the 5-woman Hammer Women’s League at Riviera Lanes in Milwaukee bowled a 1,331 game, breaking the record for the highest 5-woman team game in national recorded history previously set by Contour Power Grips I (1,328) in 1998. All five bowlers used Hammer balls. “We all began using Hammer as junior bowlers back when the urethane Blue Hammer was the ball of choice and we are happy to represent a company that has produced some of the most popular balls in the industry,” said Laura Mattila. “Having the entire team throwing Hammer equipment has helped all of us tremendously in reading the lanes and being able to make adjustments off our teammates’ shots.” Mattila bowled a 279 with Black Widow Bite. Rochelle Macke and Tracie Strunsee, also both using the Bite, threw 258 and 228 respectively. Shannon Graff bowled 277 with Cherry Vibe and Roxanne George posted a 289 with Hammer No Mercy. Nothing Hits Like a Hammer®. For more information on Black Widow Bite, Cherry Vibe and No Mercy or to find the pro shop nearest you, visit the Goods section of www.hammerbowling.com. Hammer is headquartered in Hopkinsville, Kent.

Monday, April 14, 2008

Here & There 4-15-08

Ed Korth, right, and the late Paul Tempel often discussed their many years of golfing experience at the Roscoe Twin Village Golf Course
Mr. "K" Did It & Said It His Way

Two good friends with strong different political and religious views proved over many years that these differences could never deter what true friendship is all about.
Since our first names were the same I always called my long time friend and golf partner Ed Korth by the first initial of his last name "K".
Ed Korth, 88, passed on to his heavenly rewards on April 7 and with this death I've lost a longtime good friend and a 38-year golf partner in the Monday Men's league at the Roscoe Twin Village Golf Club.
As faith sometimes arranges it I was scheduled for a South Carolina golf trip which included Ed's son, George, from Paducah, KY and up to the first of April George figured that he would be able to make the golf trip and then shortly after getting back to Kentucky he would come up to Livingston Manor to help his mother and father because at that time Ed was scheduled for some rehabilitation at an area nursing facility following a fall he had in his home the week before.
Ed's health took a turn for the worst and George's driving plans changed from Florence, South Carolina to Livingston Manor, NY.
George kept me and my golf group in touch with what was going on and unfortunately had to inform me on April 7 that his dad had passed away just an hour before he called me.
If there ever in one's lifetime was a clear definition of odd fellows it was Ed Korth and I who totally disagreed on politics and religion but still enjoyed a firm and loving friendship and many years of bowling on the same team and golf league partners for 38 years.
Ed took a strong Liberal stance on politics and I leaned toward the Conservative view and at times we really got into it with our discussions but never left angry at each other and that's how real friendship should be.
In our religious discussions he always felt very strongly that one did not have to go to church to believe in God so I feel very strongly that God has welcomed Brother Ed into his new heavenly home.
We can never forget the many years of traveling together to bowling tournaments throughout New York State and the very distinct and elaborate hospitality room we would establish at the motel we were staying in. We got famous for the way we enjoyed tournament play and all that went with it.
Ed was also famous for his unique style of bowling using a backup ball and somewhere he acquired the nickname of "radar" for his accuracy.
The many hours of leisure and party time at Tennanah Lake where Ed and Lois owned a seasonal lakeside home will always be a part of my memory bank. He owned a 19 foot Royal Craft boat equipped with an 8- cylinder GMC engine and when he floored it the front of that big boat would lift right out of the water toward the sky....those times at the lake with Dutch and Louise Korth and Marty and Elaine Reisner and many friends were just the best of all times.
For 38-years we were known as the Ed and Ed team at Twin Village Golf Club and "K" was known for always hitting it straight down the middle. Although he was never a long-ball hitter "K" enjoyed the game and always looked forward to our next golf outing.
Besides bowling and golf Ed "K" was a generous man and loved showing off his famous garden and always offered goodies to those who came by and took the Ed Korth garden tour. He also loved watching and making sure the wildlife around his home were well fed.......Ed was a real dedicated and kind person and always made sure the feeders around his home were full at all times.
Ed Korth was also one of the most highly respected automobile mechanics in the area. He work for some 20 plus years for Steinhausers Garage in Callicoon Center and then owned his own garage, Ed's Esso and Exxon in Livingston Manor for 27 years. He often talked about the Studebaker automobile and the special education that he went through going to their mechanics school and the Mercedes Benz school. Often called by other mechanics and automobile dealerships for his vast automotive knowledge Ed always was willing to help out when needed.
Mr. "K" did it and said it his way and those "Shell Steak" get togethers and so many more great memories will remain with us forever all because of a lasting and loving friendship.

Tuesday, April 1, 2008

Bowling Highlights Column 4-11-08

Team Named For Bowling's Clash Of Champions

Former NFL star and Hall of Famer Lynn Swann, bowling great Nelson Burton Jr. and CBS Sports play-by-play announcer Bill Macatee will call the action for Bowling's Clash of Champions on CBS Sports.
The trio will usher in bowling's return to network television for the first time in nearly a decade when the Clash, presented by the United States Bowling Congress and Strike Ten Entertainment, airs on CBS Sports on Saturday, May 10 from 5-6 p.m. Eastern and Sunday, May 11 from 4-5 p.m. Eastern.
The Clash, which will be taped at the Kansas City Municipal Auditorium on May 8, will bring together 16 champions of USBC events and the U.S. Open ranging in age from teenagers to seniors competing for $100,000 in prize money.
Swann will serve as sideline reporter, Burton as color commentator and Macatee as the event's play-by-play announcer.
"With bowling returning to network television, we wanted to assemble a special announcing crew and we have done that," said USBC Vice President of Communications and Marketing Tom Clark. "Bill Macatee is one of the most talented hosts in all of sports broadcasting. Nelson Burton Jr. is bowling's most familiar voice. And Lynn Swann brings his style and charisma to bowling for the first time."
A 2001 NFL Hall of Fame inductee as a wide receiver, Swann helped lead the Pittsburgh Steelers to four Super Bowl titles in the 1970s - including Most Valuable Player honors in Super Bowl X in which he caught four passes for what was a Super Bowl-record 161 yards and a touchdown in a 21-17 victory over the Dallas Cowboys. After retiring from the NFL, Swann served as a football and sports broadcaster for ABC Sports from 1976-2005.
"I'm excited about covering bowling for the first time as a broadcaster," said Swann, who has served as spokesperson the past two years for the NFL Super Bowl Celebrity Bowling Classic. "The sudden death format of this tournament should provide a much stronger sense of urgency for the competitors. It will be interesting to see how they respond."
Macatee joined CBS Sports in 1995 and plays a major role as an announcer not only for CBS Sports' golf coverage, including the Masters and the PGA Championship, but also for the NFL, the U.S. Open Tennis Championships and a variety of CBS Sports events, including skiing, track and field and the ATP Tennis Tour. Macatee served as the weekend daytime co-host of the 1998 Olympic Winter Games on CBS and as play-by-play announcer for college basketball, including the NCAA Tournament.
Burton, a member of the USBC and Professional Bowlers Association Halls of Fame, was part of one of sport's most famous broadcast teams, partnering with lead announcer and fellow Hall of Famer Chris Schenkel as color analyst on PBA Tour telecasts for 23 years. Burton has most recently served on the announcing team for the U.S. Women's Open in 2007. He also had an outstanding bowling career winning 17 PBA Tour titles and holds the record for most USBC Open Championships titles with nine, including the 1976 Masters.
The Clash will be taped on Thursday, May 8 from 6-9:30 p.m. at the Kansas City Municipal Auditorium, which is also hosting the 2008 USBC Convention the same week. Tickets to the Clash are $10 and can be ordered on bowl.com/clash. All seats are general admission and USBC Convention attendees are not required to pay for admission.
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.

The Bowling Tip
By Mike Luongo

Bowlers: This week's tip is for all bowlers regardless of their skill 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 rest on your hand, you could not swing the ball straight without hitting your hip.
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 to the left if you are left-handed) and tilt you 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 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 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, Mike can be reached at 341-1694 or by e-mail at mikespro@warwick.net

Local Scores

Callicoon Lanes

Recent lhighlight scores in the Monday Hortonville Ladies league includes a 193 by Becky Williams, Linda Millis 183, Sue Naughton 517, Lil Zieres 203, 222, 592, Debra Loughrey 187, 186, 513, Debbie Schick 181, 510, Pat Peters 180, 532 and Amber Benson 192.
In the Delaware Valley Men's league Roger Miller scored a 213, 234, 663, Ed LeRoy 201, Mark Garro 201, 201, Eric Nystrom 219, Mark Herbert 222, 236, 630, Scott Herbert 203, Gary Erlwein 230, 196, 604, Steve Lagoda 196, Walter Yanacek 199, Joel Turner 215, Jon Wayne 198, 203, Karl Adams 213, Albert Tyles 200, Damien VanLeuven 201, Mike Hubbard 214, 203, 204, 621. Todd Houghtaling 198, John Fisher 197, 204, Mark Hawley 202, Brian Starr 226 and Joseph Gager 217, 243, 246, 706.
In the Wednesday Mixed Businessmen's league Roger Widmann scored a 195, Bob Cady 214, John Fink 203, Ed Townsend 222, Tom Skiff 225, 600, John Hoffmann 199, Mike Hubbard 199, 224, 604, Phil Jacobi 200, 203, Scott Austin 199, Dwayne Gorton 208, Tom Russell 196, Damien Vanleuven 205, Mark Rutledge 206, Mike Beseth 215 and Kory Kessler 259, 213, 212, 684.

Fox Bowling Center

Recent lhighlight scores in the Tuesday Ladies Early Birds leaguue includes a 192, 530 by Anne Couse, Kathleen Stanton 180, 191, 526, Linda Ferris 185, 524, Melinda Ferris 194, 521, Robbin Smith 188, 502, Lori Walker 192, Kathleen Maltese 181 and Sally Zegers 181.
In the Wednesday Men's Independent league Daniel Wormuth scored a 257, 228, 217, 702, Donald Marino 213, 233, 244, 690, Rod Pudney 278, 255, 678, James Dibble 258, 236, 676, Robert Johnson 246, 227, 661, Robert Sobas 253, 212, 657, Frank Couse 256, 214, 656, John Stanton 202, 225, 222, 649, Pat Kille 226, 211, 201, 638, Brian Drumm 199, 246, 637, Robert McNaught 204, 226, 622, Marc Fino 246, 620, Lee Stanton 228, 236, 620, Brian Tiffany 243, 618, Tony Wright 198, 249, 607, Thomas Anderson 234, 600Norm Ellis 223, 600, Charlie DeCristofaro 235, Craig Conklin 222, Sam Rowe 223, Chris Conway 227 and Timothy Smith 217.
In the Thursday Men's Deposit National league Ray Cornwell scored a 224 triplicate for a 672 series, Harry Triebe Sr. 258, 212, 195, 665, Rod Pudney 234, 214, 214, 662, Bill Gleim 258, 212, 659, Robert Johnson 225, 245, 656, Maro Cetta 278, 649, Andrew Bullis 226, 223, 643, John Gurnick 233, 220, 637, Paul Ignatovich 217, 221, 198, 636, Howey Couse Jr. 213, 220, 626, Paul Fritz 213, 227, 620, Steve Aitken 232, 204, 619, Tony Wright 197, 247, 617, Carl Davis 204, 197, 205, 606, Al Bullis sr. 204, 224, 605, Steve Hopkins 204, 225, 603, Rick Mills 232, 603, Jim Valentine 244, Chris Conway 225 and Nick Mastropletro 224.
In the Friday Couples league Andy Bullis scored a 205, 234, 260, 699, William Gleim 214, 223, 258, 695, Howard Couse 210, 223, 236, 669, Norman Ellis 214, 264, 651, James Dibble 195, 204, 224, 623, Carl Davis 204, 232, 618, Daniel Wormuth 212, 221, 602, Robert Ellis 214, 205, 600, Anne Couse 185, 247, 599, Matthew Johnson 227, Kristina Couse 203, 181, 542, Hope Jones 180, 190, 521, Elizabeth Gleim 199, 505, Patricia Siegler 187 and Jennifer Smith 180.

Kiamesha Lanes

Recent highlights scores in the Tuesday Mixed Firefighters league include a 268, 665 by John Hoffmann, Donald Durland 268, Dale Sonnenshcein 257, Larry Berens 701, Russ Keesler 652, Debbie Durland 222, 570, Roberta Yakin 218, 554, Mary Lee Williams 201 and Dorian Jennings 548.
In the Fiday Mixed Doubles league Frank Emmens scored a 202, 243, John Cascone 200, 201, 224, 625, Laresko Niifa 252, Paul Berens 214, Orshii Niifa 233, Tammy Pineiro 211, 552, Kort Wheeler 209, 212, 610, Bob Linzer 211, Joan Lake 203, 193, 568, Kevin Stackhouse 195 and Eddie Lake 199, 205, 245, 649.
In the Saturday Morning Youth leagues, in the Pee Wees division Abigail Rustic scored a 72.
In the Bamtams division Sarah Rustic scored a 90 and Nathaniel Goldsmith 102.
In the Preps division Jared Friedman scored a 163, 142, Kristy Gessman 113, 119, 126, Trevor Scott 149, 160, Athena Soria 96, Mikayla DeGraw 115, Tyler Foxwell 136, Chase Israel 112 and Rup Patel 132.
In the Jr./Mjrs. division Kristy Zeininger scored a 136, Megan Gerow 163, 182, 193, Scott Bock 174, Brianna DeGraw 156, Shawn Sinistorie 173, 221, Eddie Walsh 200, 231, Nick Price 173, 181, Michael Gregory 152, James Durland 219, 206, Josh Natale 202, Francis Henderson 160, Kishan Patel 155, Amber Bock 122 and Kerri Fraser 156.

Here & There Column 4-8-08

What Can We Do To Make The Internet Safer?


There are many of us today that depend heavily on our e-mail for both sending and receiving messages but a recent conversation with Internet and law enforcement officials strongly pointed out that criminals who seize control of tens of thousands of home and office computers through what are known as "botnets" are a growing threat to a vehicle we all feel is safe.
And the scary thing about this is that even hospitals and police authorities may be at risk from this new Internet threat.
Top law enforcement officials since early last year have arrested over 10 individuals who allegedly infected and commandeered somewhere around 1 million personal computers and turned them into robots.
Cyber crimes are growing even though authorities are making inroads and we as Internet consumers need to take preventive measurers to minimize the danger to our computers.
Internet police say that its important to keep technical precautions like anti virus programs, spy ware protection programs and firewall programs updated.
Computer users are being advised to think of the Internet as they would a dangerous neighborhood where their personal safety may be threatened.
Warnings are given that if you receive an e-mail communications from someone you don't expect to hear from, and it's got an unusual attachment, the advice to follow is don't open it.
We asked what a "Botnet" is and were informed that it is a robot network and allows a criminal to seize control of any number of computers by introducing malicious programs like spy ware, viruses, worms, or Trojan horses into each computer through its Internet connection. Then with a single command, the master of the computer network can have each of the slave computers contact a particular computer network, bringing it down because of the sheer demand on its ports. A move like this could cause a company to lose millions of dollars in business.
In addition, slave computers can be used to compromise still more computers for the "botnet" or to engage in fishing schemes inducing people to give up their personal information in response to phony e-mails supposedly sent by banks.
IInernet officials noted that one a computer is compromised, a criminal can retrieve any information from that computer and the sad fact is that the computer uses would have no indication that his or her computer has been compromised.
Here is some advice that all of us who use a computer should follow:
Install up-to-date spy ware and anti virus programs.......have a firewall in place that assessed the traffic going in and out of a computer.......choose passwords that have upper and lower case letters as well as numbers and using symbols in a password is also a good idea if allowed....passwords should be changed periodically....ideally different passwod should be used for each account.
Taking the right precautions will make our usage of the Internet safer.

Bowling Highlights Column 4-4-08

Norm Duke in Action.

Sorry about this.......but side view of U.S. Open Champion Norm Duke



Cantonment Fla. PBA bowler Todd Book, reviews his PBA score sheet after losing an earlier score sheet and receiving a $50 fine from the PBA.





Two-handed Orange NSW Australian bowler Jason Belmonte, center, talked about his amateur bowling history with Schenectady bowler Frank Cornacelli and Livingston Manor bowler Shirley Townsend.







Former Professional Bowlers Association tour Favorite Johnny Petraglia, right, talk professional bowling with Bowling Highlights Columnist Ed Townsend.









Sullivan County bowlers attending last Sunday's PBA U.S. Open Championships included, from the left, proprietor of the A. J. Pro Shop at Kiamesha Lanes Alan Jones and his wife Suzie, from Livingston Manor and 17-year-old Daniel VanAken a student at Fallsburg High School.











The PBA U.S. Open:
What Bowling Is All About

Extremely challenging lane conditions and 24 of the top bowlers in the world competing in round-robin match play for two days set the stage for an exciting match last Sunday at the 65th U.S. Open sponsored by Denny's and held at the 84-lane Brunswick Zone Carolier in North Brunswick, New Jersey.
This columnist traveled to North Brunswick last Friday morning and had this great opportunity to witness two gruelling days (Friday and Saturday) of round-robin match play for the 24 bowlers who advanced following 27 games of qualifying over the four previous days.
PBA bowlers Doug Kent and Todd Book put it this way, "the lanes are very challenging as they are oiled 40 feet from gutter to gutter and it doesn't take much to miss the head pin so with this difficult oil pattern if you do get an open, that's the way it is and you just have come back and get a few strikes if you can."
The 24 bowlers in the round-robin match play won out over the original 492 bowler field. Four of the 24 were amateurs.
This U..S. Open presented us with many great opportunities including meeting and getting to know Parker Bohn II, father of Hall of Famer Parker Bohn III, watched the Guru of Bowling Mo Pinel do "his thing" in the Semiz 11 Frame Pro Shop, chatted with Morich Bowling Ball Company Northeast Technical Advisor Mike Luongo, saw Cantonment, Fla. PBA Player Todd Book lose his PBA score sheet and heard him tell us he would have to pay a $50 fine for that......also had lunch-supper Saturday with Todd at our favorite Chinese Buffet Restaurant on Route 18 South, had a nice conversation with bowling great Johnny Petraglia, met and talked with two-handed Orange NSW Australian amateur bowler Jason Belmonte, attended the Sunday morning Youth Clinic where many of the top professionals teach and help youth bowlers for some two hours, attended the Sunday 2 p.m. ESPN live championship match and shared some bowling talk with the operator of the A. J. Pro Shop at Kiamesha Lanes Alan Jones and his wife Suzie of Livings;ton Manor and 17-year-old Daniel VanAken, student at Fallsburg Central High School who came down to North Brunswick Sunday morning for the PBA championship round and to watch the four bowlers in the Denny's All-American High School Championship which took place following the PBA event.
Alan, Suzie and Daniel said this was their first time attending a PBA Championship, they noted their enjoyment of bing there.
The U.S. Open championship round last Sunday afternoon offered much talk about the Grand Slam, two Majors in a season, $100,000 and the one accomplishment that has eluded Norm Duke in his illustrious career.
With so much riding on the line, getting a mark in the 10th frame was never more difficult for Norm..
Needing any spare to win the 65th Denny's U.S. Open, Duke left the 2-4-5-8, giving him flashbacks of the 2000 U.S. Open that slipped out of his hands by one pin. But facing the biggest spare attempt of his career, Duke converted to defeat Mika Koivuniemi, 224-216, to win his fourth career Major and 28th Denny's Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour title.
Additionally, he became just the second bowler in history to win the four Grand Slam events. the United States Bowling Congress (USBC) Masters, Tournament of Champions, World Championship and the U.S. Open.
The win capped a wild roller coaster ride of a season for Duke, who just five weeks ago was on the verge of losing his Denny's PBA Tour exemption. He sat 51st in the PBA World Point Rankings after battling numerous injuries and, even worse, caught the flu the week of the Denny's World Championship.
Always known for having a flair for the dramatic, Duke made an incredible run through the World Championship to win his third career Major and, more importantly, earn a two-season exemption.
Fueled by the desire to win the most coveted event on Tour and the one he has had several close calls in, Duke was a man on a mission all week. Though he lost the top seed for the finals by going just 3-5 in the final round of match play Saturday night, he salvaged the No. 3 seed which meant he had to win three matches on Sunday for the title.
After looking unstoppable in defeating No. 4 Doug Kent, 234-160, and No. 2 Chris Loschetter, 267-245, to reach the title match, Duke faced the top-seed Koivuniemi, who was looking for his second U.S. Open title.
Koivuniemi held the lead until a spare in the eighth frame after which Duke struck in the eighth and ninth to take the lead. Koivuniemi had a chance to put some pressure on Duke by striking out, but he left a 2-pin with his first shot in the 10th, converting the spare and finishing with a strike to force Duke to mark.
With everything on the line, Duke re-racked but left the 2-4-5-8, one of the few bad shots he threw all day.
"I was protecting against going high because you can make the bucket but you can't make the 4-6," Duke (Clermont, Fla.) said. "But I wanted to strike, too, so it had to be somewhere in between. I didn't throw it awful, I just missed it enough. When I left that I thought, "It's over. I've done it again.".
Duke was referring to the 2000 U.S. Open title match against Robert Smith where he needed a strike with his first ball in the 10th frame to win, but he left the 8-pin to lose, 202-201.
"That was the longest 10th frame today," Duke, the first No. 3 seed since Dave Husted in 1996 to win the U.S. Open, said. "Under those circumstances, I was a lot calmer today than I had been on Friday and Saturday. Fatigue really plays a role in this event. If you watched last night, guys were dying and I was one of those guys. Not dying mentally, but physically. But I threw some warm-ups this morning and had the game I wanted to have and that really calmed me down."
After Duke picked up the 'bucket,' the diminutive crowd favorite who is one of the most emotional players the Tour has ever seen, pumped his fist and jumped wildly, showing just how much this event meant to him.
"I cannot put into words how special this is to me," Duke said. "Five years after I missed that shot against Robert I would still cry about it. It was the one thing I would constantly think about that I hadn't done. I could just never cap it off. Now, I'm the reigning champion of the U.S. Open."
The win capped off an incredible month for Duke, who became just the seventh bowler to win two Majors in one season. He moved past Mike Aulby into sole possession of sixth on the all-time titles list, moved into a tie for fifth all-time with his fourth Major and joined Mike Aulby as the only bowlers to win the Grand Slam, although his 1993 Masters title does not count as an official PBA title.
"This format, this grind. it's why so few people can actually win this event," Duke said. "There are probably 25 people out here who can actually win this. It's why Pete (Weber) has won it four times. Now after 27 years of dreaming, it means everything to my career."
Duke took home $100,000 for the win and extended his exemption through the 2010-11 season. Koivuniemi (Hartland, Mich.) earned $50,000 for second, Loschetter (Avon, Ohio) took home $25,000 for third while Kent (Newark, N.Y.) earned $13,000 for fourth.
The 65th Denny's U.S. Open concludes the 2007-08 Denny's PBA Tour. Chris Barnes wrapped up the 2007-08 PBA Player of the Year award last week, edging out six-time PBA Player of the Year Walter Ray Williams Jr. by two points in the standings to win the award for the first time in his career.
For the fourth consecutive season, six bowlers will roll off for a $150,000 winner-take-all top prize in the Motel 6 Roll to Riches special event, which takes place Tuesday, April 8 at Colonial Lanes in Orlando, Fla., and airs as two back-to-back one-hour shows on ESPN, Sunday, April 13 at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. ET. Participants include Duke, Kent, Sean Rash, Michael Haugen Jr., Parker Bohn III and Chris Barnes, who earned a berth in the event thanks to Duke winning two Majors. Barnes was the runner-up to Bohn in a fan vote.

Local Scores And Features
Return Next Week

Due to the length of this feature story on the U.S. Open and pictures of the event our coverage of the local scores , The Tip of the Week and the Bowling Calendar will return in print in next week's column.
Chris Barnes

CHRIS BARNES NAILS PLAYER OF THE YEAR


Columbia 300 staff player, Chris Barnes, has found himself in the ultimate winner’s circle this season, capturing the 2007-2008 Denny’s PBA Player of the Year award. Barnes, who solidified the win today with 64 points, joins an illustrious list of Columbia 300 bowlers who have previously won this season-ending honor, most notably Dave Ferraro, David Ozio, Marshall Holman, Mark Roth and Don Johnson.“We made the decision to sign Chris a few years ago knowing that he had the talent and skills to be the best bowler in the world and it’s nice to say he has achieved this goal as a member of the Team Columbia family while using our great products,” said Chad Murphy, Columbia 300 brand manager and good friend of Barnes’. “He is at the top of the sport and I’m excited for him and his family.”Barnes joined the PBA in 1998 and, by all accounts, has had one of the most successful careers on record. Winning two titles this year, the Don Johnson Buckeye State Open earlier this month and the Bayer Classic in February, he’s got ten titles to his name and currently holds the record as the fastest bowler to cross the $1 million mark in earnings in the shortest number of events (220) and in just four years. Since joining the Columbia 300 team four years ago he has taken home five events including two Majors and two Roll to Riches as well. The 1998 Rookie of the Year, Barnes says that winning the 2008 Player of the Year is especially meaningful.“After ten years on Tour, it’s a thrill to win Player of the Year. In a year when Columbia 300 has reinvented and reintroduced itself to the industry, I have no doubt that the new balls are a huge part of my success this year. Being with Columbia is like being a part of a family; like I have ownership as well.”Barnes has relied on the Columbia 300 Resurgence and the new Momentum heavily this season. “If you had told me that I would win this award, I wouldn’t have believed you. Walter Ray Williams had such a huge lead at the beginning of the season it seemed impossible to catch him. I just went out there and tried to bowl consistently well week in and week out and the Momentum was released and things fell into place for me.”Barnes says the Resurgence was great during the first half of the season when conditions were really heavy. And, since the Momentum’s release, he has used it almost exclusively in every single tournament.“This award is really more of a testament to the work behind the scenes that Chad, Randy Teitloff and Ron Hickland have put into the ball design and development. You know it’s like taking knives to a gunfight. You don’t win too often. This year I’ve had bigger guns.”Barnes was officially named the Player of the Year during Sunday’s telecast at the 65th Denny’s U.S. Open.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 and Powerhouse™.

Here & There Column 4-1-08

A Hot Topic.......Heating Your Home

Wow.......have you taken a close look at your fuel bill recently.......when 150 to 200 gallons registers a $500 and $600 pay out I've heard many local folks say they are looking for alternative heating.
Wood stoves and pellet stoves sales have gained the interest of many and will most likely continue to climb as oil prices go up and up.
Friends of ours showed us their outdoor wood burning furnace that also heats their hot water.......this item is bound to become more popular but some municipalities have placed limits on where these can be installed and put to use.
Coal stoves for home heat are hot on the US market. Reports are that all of the corn stove makers are sold out with long waiting times and sales volumes have more than doubled in the last year.
One would have to ask why the big demand for corn heating and the simple answer is that nothing costs less to burn at this point than corn.
According to figures provided by Even Temp, maker of the St.Croix line of stoves, the cost per therm for 100,000British thermal units is 42 cents.
Dennis Buffington, a professor of engineering at Penn State University, provided figures in late January 2006 that for 1 million BTUs of heat, it takes $16.47 in natural gas, $33.80 in propane and a mere$8.75 for corn.
The corn industry is loving this move to corn for hear and they are promoting statements that corn is less expensive and safe for the environment.
Corn for heat sure looks like a comer on the energy scene .
And then there was coal........remember how many of your parents and grandparents homes were heated by coal....well folks coal is making a return in home heating and one of the popular units today is the direct vent coal stoker and while talking to a coal stove distributor (dealer) the other day he spoke about the Narman Stove Company in Halifax, PA and their Harman DVC-500 Direct coal stoker which he noted comes with a computer on board which make constant adjustments to the fuel consumed and to the heat driven into the room through the blower.
The distributor said a coal stove like this can sit in the center of your home and with a low setting of 7,000 BTU's, this stoker doesn't drive you our of the room. Come January he noted comfort is assured with a house-heating maximum of 75,000 BTUs.
An interesting aspect about this stove is that it is a true direct vent coal stove, the first of it kind, and does not require a chimney for installation or operation. It is said to be extremely safe and airtight, obtaining 100 percent of the air needed for the fire from outside your home and returning 100 percent of the exhaust air back outside.
And another interesting aspect about this type of heating is that the Anthracite coal for this unit comes to you in 40-pound bags and many homeowners report up to a 50% saving on their heating bills.
Coal companies are quick to point out that Anthracite s an American-produced, clean-burning, smokeless fuel that's continuously warmer and costs less than other heating options.
So this is fuel for thought and many are thinking alternative heating for their homes.

Bowling Highlights Column 3-28-08

Debbie Durland
Tommy Jones

Doug Kent