Bowlling Highlights Column 3-26-10

Sullivan County bowlers attending the PBA Go RVing Match Play Championship last weekend at Norwich, Conn., included from the left, Bowling Highlights Columnist Ed Townsend, Kelly Shattuck, Dean Shattuck, Frank Cornicelli from Schenectady, Shirley Townsend, Barbara Cady and Bob Cady.


Brian Kretzer wins Norwich Conn. tour stop.

Six County Bowlers Attend Norwich
Professional Bowlers Tour Stop

Six Sullivan County bowlers attended the Professional Bowlers Association Go RVing Match Play Championship last week at the Norwich Bowling and Entertainment Center at Norwich, Conn.
Sullivan County bowlers attending the first days event on Thursday, March 18 were Bob and Barbara Cady and Ed and Shirley Townsend, both from Livingston Manor. Arriving for the Friday evening matches were Dean and Kelly Shattuck of Monticello.
The six Sullivan County bowlers competed in the Saturday Pro-Am No-Tap event with Professional bowlers Chris Barnes, Todd Book, Mika Koivuniemi, Rhino Page, Mike Scroggins, Eddie VanDaniker Jr. and Walter Ray Williams Jr. Dean Shattuck shot a nice 800 plus series.
Also in attendance was a good friend of the Townsend's, Frank Cornicelli of Schenectady.
The group witnessed upset after upset as the top 20 seeded bowlers were eliminated after the first round of 64 and 32.
Brian Kretzer of Dayton, Ohio, ended his 167-event winless streak Sunday afternoon, defeating 13-time Professional Bowlers Association title winner Patrick Allen of Wesley Chapel, Fla., 629-566, in a three-game title total wood match.
Kretzer, at age 43, became the sixth Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour competitor to win his first singles title during the 2009-10 season.
Kretzer, the No. 27 seed entering the 64-player single-elimination match play tournament, took a 192-185 lead after the first game, but ran away from Allen, the No. 21 seed, in the second game, 241-167. With an 81-pin lead going into the final game, it was a matter of filling frames. Allen’s 214-196 win in the third game wasn’t enough.
“It’s been a long time,” Kretzer said. “I’m happy and I know my mom’s happy. It’s nice to win, whether it’s your first time or your 10th. I had a lot of success as an amateur before I joined the PBA, but this kind of completes my career. Now I’ve won at every level.” Kretzer said his new-found success was a matter of turning back the clock. “I went back to what I was doing in the `90s when I was an amateur,” he said. “I was carrying the ball through my approach instead of pushing. Now I can feel the ball again. I can do what I want to do with it. I could always hook the ball, but now I can play straighter, too.”
Playing straighter was critical because the Go RVing Match Play Championship used a different lane condition on each lane. The left lane on each pair used a long-oil Shark pattern while the right lane used a shorter Cheetah lane condition. Playing straighter on the Cheetah lane was the key to Kretzer’s victory, and solving the Cheetah lane was the primary reasonAllen struggled.
“The Cheetah lane was a little different than yesterday, but I threw a lot of bad shots,” Allen said. “I never got comfortable on that lane, and when you are playing two extremely different angles, if you’re not comfortable on one lane, you’re not going to be comfortable on either. “Brian took advantage. When you get a guy down in a tournament like this,you’re supposed to stomp on him, and that’s what he did.”
Kretzer and Allen both grew up in the game as high-stakes amateurs. “We’ve know each other since we were kids,” Kretzer said. “We crossed paths a lot, even though we didn’t bowl each other head-to-head very often. I have one thing over him now,” Kretzer smiled. “He’s never beaten me in a title match.”
The Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour now heads to West Babylon, N.Y., wherethe GEICO Mark Roth Plastic Ball Championship. Mark, who suffered a severe stroke last year will be in attendance but at the present time he has to use a wheelchair. The TV match is scheduled for Sunday at 2 p.m. on ESPN from AMF Babylon Lanes.

Local Scores

Kiamesha Lanes

Recent highlight scores in the Monday Men's league include a 237 by Dan Ricco, Mike Weiner 617, Paul Durlan d 235, Jaryl Scott 232, 619, Vinnie Collura 651, Donald Durland 278, 226, 687, Josh Strang 267, 643, Tom Belgiovene 619, John Hoffmann 242, 229, 247, 718, Nate Sanders 246, 602, John Fischer 601, William Bartley 616, David Graham 228, 647, Jo Jo VanKeuren 247, 669, Serafin Rodriguez Jr. 236, 620, Frank Martinez 262, 656, Jon Wilhelm 255, 259, 237, 751, Eddie Lake 246, 258, 720, Lloyd Bridges 254, 670, Niifa Laresko 245, 636, Jason Jones Jr. 235, 602, Matt Fallon 225, 233, 649, Jack Moylan 278, 240, 279, 797, Kort Wheeler 245, 226, 228, 699, Allan Jones 247, 625, Daniel VanAken 234, Paul Curry 236, 619, Ronnie Totten 239, 608, Timothy Totten 234, 627.
In the Tuesday Mixed Firefighters league Debra Blackford 187, 191, 187, 565, Carena Collura 184, Lisa Cartwright 186, 204, 537, Andrea Grossman 180, 182, 508, Russ Keesler 225, 619, Jason Jones 249, 652, Daniel VanAken 228, 605, Debbie Durland 232, 180, 578. Mal Press 279, 237, 687, Jon Wilhelm 227, 226, 670, Ed Guthrie 228, 636, Cecil Walters 235, 634, Mary Lee Williams 180, 191, 548, Joan Lake 191, 509, Ryan Lepke 600, John Hoffmann 226, 246, 695, David Graham 255, 225, 669, Barbara Yeomans 194, Larry Berens 611.
In the Wednesday Men's league Daniel VanAken 610, George VanAken Jr. 233, 235, 652, Kevin Stackhouse 238, 246, 696, Al Caycho 235, 645, Mike Weiner 245, 620, John Lopez 238, 228, 651, William Danchak 247, 234, 238, 719, George Battle Jr. 234, 605, Dean Shattuck 601, Paul Durland 242, 681, Josh Strang 640, Tom Belgiovene 632, John Hoffmann 245, 641, Rick Lara 604, Jason Jones Jr. 235, 606, Shawn Lyons 225, 608, Wayne Atkins 245, 243, 681, Eddie Lake 245, 268, 227, 740, Gregory Fallon 245, 299, 737, Matt Fallon 258, 610, Jon Wilhelm 242, 637, Richard Bradford 226, 610, Donald Durland 249, 277, 750,
In the Thursday Ladies league Rudy Hoke 188, 518, Debbie Durland 202, 214, 575, Mary Lee Williams 205, 535, Barbara Durbak 190, 519, Lisa Cartwright 185, Cloria Hopkins 183, 212, 575, Liz Stubits 190, MaryJane Conklin 192, Joan Lake 180, 513, Karen Perrello 182, Kristin Emmett 197, Mardette Wilcox 204, 557.

Beechwood Lanes

Recent highlight scores in the Monday Ladies league include a 216, 201, 194, 611 by Diane Staves, Wendy Finn 167, Beth Schumcher 167, Dot McCormack 162, Jackie Mootz 164, Diane Conroy 197, 160, Lois Srdman 182, Barbara Cady 168, Julie Yewchuck 163, Pat McGurrin 160.
In the Tuesday Ladies league Debbie Loughrey 180, 179, 522, Julie Burlingame 172, Lillian Zieres 481.
In the Wednesday Men's league Tim Ackermann 195, 201, 581, Tim Sykes 205, Brian Brustman 198 Mike Sorge 225, Roger Widmann 202.

Fox Bowling Center

Recent highlight scores in the Wednesday Men's Independent league include a 234 by Tom Anderson, Al Bullis Sr. 249, 661, Dale Conklin 225, 627, Jim Dibble 248, 236, 701, Art Gately 225, 604, Bill Gleim 257, 688, Jack Hazen 236, 626, Steve Jacobi 232, 612, Rob Johnson 235, 640, Pat Kille 231, 646, Donnie Marino 256, 228, 29, 743, Dick Price 258, 236, 675, Josh Rice 266, 646, Sam Rowe 610, Hank Whitmore 254, 623, Zuke Wormuth 251, 226, 668, Ken Wormuth 618, Lee Wormuth 256, Jay Wormuth 242, 233, 680, Tony Wright 612.
In the Thursday Men's Deposit National league Rob Bolster 228, Al Bullis Jr. 225, 237, 685, Craig Conklin 225, 622, Ray Cornwell 246, 618, Howey Couse Jr. 256, 650, Jeff Curtis 256, 650, Norm Ellis Jr. 235, 637, Paul Fritz 628, Bill Gifford 253, 642, Bill Gleim 226, 670, Gino Jones 227, 233, 651, Dan Koch 631, Rich Lenio 233, Larry Mills 253, Neil Mosher 257, 235, 698.
In the Friday Mixed Couples league Andy Bullis 228, 243, 678, Frank Couse Sr. 233, 609, Anne Couse 226, 541, Howey Couse 233, 645, Carl Davis 229, Jim Dibble 268, 236, 725, Crystal Ellis 189, Norman C. Ellis 631, Bobbie Jo Horton 191, Gino Jones 225, 235, 684, Dana McGraw 185, Mark McGraw 603, Dawn Mclenon 183, Jen Smith 190, Tim Smith 235, Sandy Winans 196, 184, 549, Dan Wormuth 226, 234, 683, Jay Wormuth 226, 622.
In the Sunday Afternoon Mixed Fun league Marty Haeussler 226, Don Marino 235, 244, 693, Savanna Mills (youth scores) 142, 147, 160, 449, Shirley Townsend 183.

This column is written by Ed Townsend, a public relations consultant to the amateur and professional sport of bowling and to several bowling writers associations. If you have a topic that would make good reading or have league and tournament scores and information, Ed can be reached at 439-8177, vie e-mail at edwardctownsend@hotmail.com and by fax at 230-8674. For a more expanded version of the bowling column, please visit our
Web Page at http://bght.blogspot.com/

PBA Spare Shots

FOR THREE “PBA BOWLING BRACKET” PLAYERS, KRETZER WAS NO UPSET
In 2009, the Professional Bowlers Association designed the Go RVing Match Play Championship as a bowling version of the NCAA’s “March Madness” basketball tournament. In the days leading up to the 2010 Match Play Championship, the PBA decided create to give bowling fans the same chance to “play the bracket game” millions of basketball fans have.

Within 48 hours of posting the first “PBA Bracket Battle,” 5,451 PBA fans went online and signed up. And while the Go RVing Match Play Championship proved to be a competition overwhelmed with upsets, three Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour fans predicted that Brian Kretzer of Dayton, Ohio, would win his first PBA Tour title in Norwich, Conn.

Picking the No. 27-seeded Kretzer to win led to a PBA Bowling Bracket victory for Aaron Hawkins of Oregon, Ohio, who accumulated 91 points to top Dan Bock of Albert Lea, Minn., by six points in the standings. Ken Gassel of Florissant, Mo., finished third with 84 points – and he was the third player to pick Kretzer for the title.

Michael Kay of Bolingbrook, Ill., finished fourth in the PBA Bracket Battle with 74 points, one ahead of Mike Johnson of Batavia, N.Y. Prizes for the five winners included a bowling pin autographed by all Round of 8 survivors in the Match Play Championship for Hawkins, a $100 gift certificate to the online PBA Store for Bock, an autographed PBA Tournament of Champions poster for Gassel, and complimentary one-year subscriptions to pba.com’s Xtra Frame for Kay and Johnson.

KRETZER BECOMES SIXTH FIRST-TIME SINGLES CHAMPION OF 2009-10 SEASON
With his Go RVing Match Play Championship victory, Brian Kretzer of Dayton, Ohio, became the sixth player to win his/her first PBA Tour title during the 2009-10 Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour season. He joins Bill O’Neill (Chameleon Championship), Tom Smallwood (PBA World Championship), Anthony LaCaze (Earl Anthony Memorial), Kelly Kulick (PBA Tournament of Champions) and Mike Fagan (Dick Weber Open) as new singles champions. (Fagan was a previous champion in the 2009 PBA Exempt Doubles Classic with Danny Wiseman).

PBA stats keepers were scanning the records to try to find the last time the Tour crowned six new champions in a season. It has probably happened, but when? To be announced.

KULICK ADDS MALAYSIAN INTERNATIONAL OPEN TITLE TO HER RESUME
Kelly Kulick of Union, N.J., added a fourth significant title to her 2009-10 collection. The winner of the PBA Tournament of Champions, PBA Women’s World Championship and PBA Women’s Series presented by BOWL.COM Shark Championship added the Canon Malaysian International Open title to her credits on March 19. Kulick defeated Chien Hsiu-Lan of Chinese Taipei in a best-of-three-game title match, 184-211, 218-210, 211-201 to win the equivalent of roughly US$3,000.

UNDERDOGS KEEP PLAYER OF THE YEAR RACE UNCHANGED
Thanks to a swarming pack of underdogs, the Chris Schenkel PBA Player of the Year race remained basically unchanged heading into the final two events of the season – this week’s GEICO Mark Roth Plastic Ball Championship and the Lumber Liquidators Marathon Championship.

Player of the Year points leader Bill O’Neill, runner-up Walter Ray Williams Jr., and third-place contender Mike Scroggins were all eliminated in surprising upsets in the Go RVing Match Play Championship in Norwich, Conn., failing to earn any Player of the Year points.

AGUIAR TOPS BARNES IN CHRIS BARNES CHALLENGE IV; PEPE WILL BE NEXT
Alex Aguiar of Dartmouth, Mass., not only upset Chris Barnes in the opening round of the Go RVing Match Play Championship, winning their Round of 64 best-of-seven-game match, 4-1, but confirmed his dominance over the PBA Tour superstar, 626-524, in Chris Barnes Challenge IV presented by Columbia 300. Aguiar’s win in the special challenge match at Norwich Bowling and Entertainment Center paid him a grand total of $3,000.

Aguiar, 30, who bowled his way through the Tour Qualifying Round to make it into the Go RVing field, rolled games of 224, 178 and 224 to Barnes’ games of 192, 166 and 166 in the Chris Barnes Challenge, which was contested on the tournament’s dual-pattern lane conditions (Shark condition on left lane, Cheetah on the right).

Barnes will now take his 2-2 record in four head-to-head challenge matches up against 21-year-old college student Anthony Pepe of Queens, N.Y., in Chris Barnes Challenge V during the GEICO Mark Roth Plastic Ball Championship at AMF Babylon Lanes in West Babylon, N.Y. The three-game match will air exclusively online on pba.com’s Xtra Frame video-streaming service at 9 p.m. Eastern on Saturday.

Pepe, a criminal justice major at Nassau Community College, said is being sponsored in the contest by “someone who thinks I have what it takes… I’m going to try my hardest to beat him.” Pepe and his backer have posted the full-limit $5,000 stake to take on Barnes on the PBA Shark pattern with any PBA-approved equipment. The winner will walk away with $10,000.

FAMOUS PAIR OF MADRAS SLACKS NETS $150 FOR JDRG IN AUCTION
That designer pair of colorful Madras slacks made famous in the television duel between PBA Tour roommates Chris Barnes and Mika Koivuniemi in Columbus, Ohio, in 2009 sold for $150 in an online auction. The money was donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. The name of the buyer wasn’t readily available.

DEVANEYS WELCOME DAUGHTER EVERLEY JEAN
The newest addition to the PBA family is Everley Jean DeVaney, born March 19, to Mike and Carrie DeVaney of San Diego. Everley Jean, at 7 pounds, 12 ounces and 19 inches in length, joins brother Owen Michael in the DeVaney family.

PBA Charter Member and USBC Hall
Of Famer Bill Bunetta Dies at 90

Professional Bowlers Association charter member Bill Bunetta, one of bowling’s most respected instructors as well as a talented competitor on the lanes, died March 21 in Fresno, Calif., of heart failure. He was 90.

Bunetta, who won his only PBA Tour title in Fairless Hills, Pa., in 1960, was a member of the E&B, and Pfeiffers of Detroit, and Munsingwear of Chicago teams that contributed to his five American Bowling Congress Championships (now USBC Open Championships) titles between 1949 and 1955. He was inducted into the USBC Hall of Fame in 1968.

In 1995, at age 76, he became the oldest bowler in history to roll back-to-back 300 games.

Beyond his successes on the lanes, Bunetta may be best known for his innovative coaching techniques--including the innovative "3-6-9" spare-shooting system--and his years of conducting clinics and exhibitions. He was often sought out by many young professionals for coaching assistance.

Information regarding services is still pending.

Desire to Attend His Own Tournament
Drives Mark Roth’s Recovery Efforts

Over the past few weeks, the intensity and desire that carried Mark Roth to 34 Professional Bowlers Association Tour titles has started to return. The 58-year-old hall of famer – the bowler who was recognized as the fifth-best in PBA history just a year ago – has been working harder than he has in years, trying to get ready for his next tournament.

But when Mark Roth makes his appearance at the GEICO Mark Roth Plastic Ball Championship at AMF Babylon Lanes in West Babylon, N.Y., March 24-28, it will be dramatically different than any he has ever made before. He will arrive at the Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour event named in his honor in a wheelchair.

The fact of the matter is, since suffering a severe stroke on May 31 that paralyzed the entire left side of his body, Mark Roth has been in a battle for his life, his wife, Denise Roth, disclosed today. The stroke was bad enough, but Roth also suffers from diabetes and heart disease, and complications that seemed to arise on an almost daily basis.

But about six weeks ago, she said, Mark suddenly began to arise from the frustration and despair, and it’s all because he wants to attend his own tournament.

“I have some great news,” Denise said last Friday. “Mark has not had to go into the emergency room or anything in about six weeks. He seems to be much stronger. He still has very little use of his left arm, leg, ankle and hand, but he has gained some weight and looks more like the old Mark Roth.

“Most of his facial paralysis is gone. Most of his speech is back and pretty clear. He’s had a lot of problem with his left shoulder, hand, arm, but he’s going to get a Botox treatment that will help him make the trip to Long Island. He has been working so diligently just to get to that tournament. He doesn’t want to miss it.

“Oh, boy, at this point I’m just so happy to see him making some progress. That’s good medicine for me, too. It’s something that’s keeping him working hard. For a while, I wasn’t sure he was going to be able to make the trip. We’re keeping our fingers crossed that he’ll hold up.”

In the weeks following his stroke, Denise said she did her best to maintain a positive outlook, for herself and for Mark, but things had not been going well. He was in and out of hospital with all kind of complications. I honestly thought things were going to end. But over the last six weeks, everything has all of a sudden started to come together for him.

“He can walk a short distance now – not real good, but he can use a quad cane (Roth is unable to use a walker because he has no use of his left hand). He has all of his long-term memory, but he has some short-term difficulty,” she continued. “He is probably going have to rest quite a bit, but this is such good medicine for him. He needs something like this to up-lift him.

“I think people will be surprised to see how well he does look at this point. About six weeks ago, it seemed pretty hopeless.”

Denise Roth also said Mark’s drive to make the trip to Long Island is also fueled by the couple’s desire to say “thank you” to the incredible out-pouring of support they have received.

“Wow, I believe in the power of prayer more than I did before,” she said. “I want to thank everyone we can. The prayers and donations have been incredible. Because of the donations we have received, the extra rehab he has been able to get has been astronomical. From now on, it’s rehab, rehab, rehab, just to get back as much function as he can.

“We’ve heard from people in Afghanistan, Israel, from all over the world,” she continued. “There actually is a guy named Jeffrey – he’s in the U.S. Air Force – who sent Mark a coin he kept in his pocket for good luck while flying missions over Afghanistan. He sent that coin to Mark.

“We got a letter from a cute elderly lady named Lula with a card and $10. She asked how I was doing, and said she knows the wife usually gets overlooked, and that she’d send me a million dollars if she could. All of the cards and letters have been so touching…”

In another week, Mark and Denise Roth will arrive in West Babylon, where they will try to set aside the stress and anxieties of the past 10 months. Rather than bowling for a 35th career title, to break his tie for third place on the all-time list with Pete Weber, Mark Roth will watch today’s stars – young and old – try to weave the same kind of magic he produced when his radical grip-it-and-rip-it technique with low-tech plastic bowling balls revolutionized the sport back in the 1970s.

“We both need to have a little fun, and nothing could be better than for him to have a chance to spend some time with his second family,” she smiled. “After all, Mark Roth is bowling, and bowling is Mark Roth.”

The GEICO Mark Roth Plastic Ball Championship is a unique event in which 64 PBA members will use identical plastic bowling balls bearing Mark Roth’s likeness. The special limited-edition bowling balls, created by OnTheBallBowling.com, are available through the company’s website for $100. A portion of the proceeds benefit a Mark Roth medical assistance fund.

Here & There Column 3-23-10

Support Music In Our Schools

Love the month of March.....along with the hint of Spring in the air.....we also celebrate Music In Our Schools Month and what a month is has been so far here in Sullivan County.
Two great productions of "Grease" were put on by the Sullivan West High School and Liberty Central High School and if you didn't attend the great 56th Annual All-County Music Festival March 6 staged at the David E. Panebaker Auditorium at Liberty High School you missed outstanding musical talent produced by our local school districts.
The All-County Music Festival was staged by the Sullivan County Music Educators' Association. Congratulations go out to Festival chairperson Gary E. Siegel for helping to put this program together.
Over 450 top musicians from our county's schools performed in a 3 p.m. concert consisting of the String Orchestra, Elementary Chorus and the Middle School Band and the 5 p.m. concert consisting of the Junior High Jazz Ensemble, Junior High Women's Chorus, Junior High Mixed Chorus and the Senior High Band.
Music teachers throughout our local school systems spent many hours preparing the students to reach this important part of their educational lives......a great job done by all.
While some educational studies are not continued through the lives of graduating students music will always be there and we strongly stress the importance of quality music education.
Printed on the second page of the All-County Music Festival program was the following statement which we proudly quote, "The Ideal Music Program does not exist.....Someone must Build It.....Someone must shape and create the Attitudes for Support, Someone must make a Long Range Commitment....To Provide every child the opportunity to experience the beauty of musical expression."
Music is vital to every child's education and with school budgets being cut back as a result of the state budget cuts to education and our suffering national economy strong support must come from parents to see that music programs are not taken away from our youth.

Bowling Highlights Column 3-19-10

Rick Lake Records Second Career 300

Forty-nine year-old Monticello bowler Rick Lake comes from a well known and highly respected Sullivan County bowling family.
Rick added his name to the Lake bowling family accomplishments on March 8 by smashing the maples for his second career 300 game on lanes 1 and 2 at Kiamesha Lanes.
The 300 came in his third game of the night using an Ebonite Gyro urethane bowling ball. He also recorded a 222 single for a 696 series.
His first 300 game was bowled some 6 to 7 years ago at Kiamesha Lanes in the Monday Men's league.
Rick noted that all the strikes were in the pocket except for one light hit that carried. He presently carries a 212 average in this the only league he bowls in.
The family tradition is important to Rick as he bowls on the Team Lake squad sponsored by his wife, Jane, who is a Lia Sophia Jewelry representative.
The team consists of his dad, Mickey Lake, his brother Eddie Lake (well known for his 10-career 300 games and the famous 20-year-old Hammer urethane bowling ball he uses), and Roy Sweeney.
Rick's mom, Joan Lake, has been a dominant force in area bowling circles for a number of years.
Lake has been bowling for some 44 years starting out in the Kiamesha Lanes youth leagues.
In addition to bowling Rick golfs in a couple of area leagues and he and his wife are noted motorcycle enthusiasts who enjoy riding their Harley-Davidson throughout the country.
The Lake's have no children and Rick is a 25-year employee at Catskill Regional Medical Center.

Bowling Tip
By Mike Luongo

Bowlers: This week the tip is for all bowlers to assist you on how to best use the dots and arrows on the approach as target aids.
When preparing to execute a bowling shot, whether it is a strike or spare, you must be prepared to understand the path down the lane you intend your bowling ball to take. With this in mind, when stepping on the approach you should have a focal point, simply the point from which the ball will roll off you hand in the direction you intend it to go, picked out.
If you throw a hook ball, you will be rolling toward the intended break point--the spot on the lane you expect your ball to change direction. If you are rolling the ball straight, the pocket or the pin/pins will be your intended target.
The tip: Look at your intended target and bring your eyes back to the spot on the lane that you are most comfortable looking at, whether it be the dots or an arrow.
To play the modern game, the sooner the ball comes off your hand the better. If you are looking at an arrow and tend to throw or hit up on the ball instead of rolling it off your hand, bring your eyes more toward the dots.
If you are a bowler that tends to play more across the boars with a lot of rotation, your focal point should be a far right (or left) as in between the lanes to get the ball to the correct break point.
If you play a straighter game, with a small hook, your correct focal point may be toward the 3-pin ( for right hand bowlers).
Remember, there is no substitute for making a good shot. If you combine good shots with good thinking, you scores will increase.
Mike Luongo is technically certified through IBPSIA as a Pro Shop Operator and Master Instructor. He is also a Silver Level Coach with the USBC and is a Sales Advisor and Special Events Coordinator with the Storm and Roto Grip Bowling Ball Company. If you have a question or subject you would like covered, he can be reached at 341-1694 or via e-mail at mikesproshop@ymail.com

Senior Tournament
Set For May 2 At
Hoe Bowl Lanes

The 39th Annual Eddie Beebe-Julia Maney Memorial Senior Tournament will be held Sunday, May 2 at 1 p.m. at the Hoe Bowl Lanes in Walden.
The tournament is sponsored by the Tri-County NY USBC Association and is open to sanctioned men and women bowlers who are 55 or older and who reside in the areas governed by the Tri-County Association.
Entry fee is $27.00.
A buffet will follow bowling at which time prizes will be awarded.
Mail entries or obtain information from Michele Bensley, Association Manger, 405 Avenue E, Matamoras, PA 18336. Telephone 570-491-2745 or e-mail keglers@optonline.net

Local Scores

Kiamesha Lanes

Recent highlight scoring in the Monday Men's league included a 238, 277, 256, 771 by Dan Ricco, Mike Weiner 229, 245, 698, Paul Durland 245, 626, Jaryl Scott 244, 645, Vinnie Collura 237, 660, Donald Durland 244, James VanAken 237, 605, Josh Strang 243, 264, 731, John Hoffman 238, 724, Nate Sanders 230, 227, 651, John Fischer 648, David Graham 227, 600, Jo Jo VanKeuren 236, 226, 638, Craig Wilhelm 234, 604, Al Caycho 638, Jon Wilhelm 246, 641, Vincent Scuderi 243, 606, Frank Scuderi 229, 603, Mickey Lake 231, Eddie Lake 227, 226, 655, Lloyd Bridges 244, 670, James Frost 238, Jason Jones Jr. 278, 694, Jack Moylan 279, 277, 748, Kort Wheeler 258, 234, 672, Allan Jones 605, Timothy Totten 232, 279, 688, Mal Press 237, 611.
In the Tuesday Mixed Firefighters league Debra Blackford 181, Carena Collura 186, 502, Ronda McClernon 208, Joann Ruggiero 187, Lisa Cartwright 209, Andrea Grossman 210, 254, 624, Russ Keesler 226, 617, Allen Jones 232, 607, Debbie Durland 223, 201, 246, 670, Mal Press 236, Jon Wilhelm 259, 245, 705, Ed Guthrie 229, 234, 679, Cecil Walters 235, 617, Mary Lee Williams 206, 195, 204, 606, Joan Lake 191, 522, Dorian Jennings 232, 211, 581, George Kelley 624, Shane Cunningham 606, Kevin Stackhouse 267, 639, Linda Schaefer 513, Larry Berens 602.
In the Wednesday Men's league Kenny Atkins 254, 604, Kenneth Hopkins Jr. 231, Vincent Scuderi 603, Craig Wilhelm 258, 224, 649, Al Caycho 234, 604, Mike Weiner 232, John Lopez 258, 660, Frank Muller Jr. 225, 606, Larry Berens 238, Dean Shattuck 246, 256, 726, Paul Durland 231, 624, Josh Strang 253, 233, 676, Tom Belgiovene 244, 661, John Hoffmann 254, 605, Rick Lara 245, 641, Tim McIntyre 235, 633, Vincent Degraw 226, 628, Troy Morris 608, Wayne Atkins 233, 239, 618, Eddie Lake 280, 236, 246, 762, Gregory Fallon 226, 243, 671, Matt Fallon 225, 653, Richard Bradford 613, Donald Durland 614.
In the Thursday Ladies league Christine Schultz 218, 518, Barbara Durbak 180, 520, Karen Perrello 181, Liz Stubits 185, Mardette Wilcox 175, 500, Rudy Hoke 243, 550, Rita Burdick 188, Debbie Durland 203, 181, 181, 564, Pat Shuart 181, Liz Burgio 183, Connie Mckenley 182, 506, Bonnie Geraine 187, 509, Sonya Robinson 181.
In the Saturday Morning Youth leagues, in the Pee Wees division Gabriel Goldsmith 81, Jenna Merton 96, Tommy Merton 76, George VanAken 85, Kayelynn Blackford 66, Jenna Hendricks 93. In the Preps division, S. Patel 120, Rup Patel 120, Mackenzie S. 106, Nathaniel Goldsmith 134, Tayl'r Porter 80, Rachel Drillings 63, 51, Johathan Wilhelm 120, 183, Sarah Rustic 144, 115, 139, Ben Drillings 111, Sierra Barbianti 72, 73, Anthony Pagani 82, 83, 99. In the Jr/Mjrs Jared Friedman 189, 152, Shivani Patel 165, 191, 171, James Durland 213, Shawn Comfort 118, Megan Gerow 169, 163, Kishan Patel 192, Kristy Gessman 146, 123, Shawn Sinistorie 178, Steven Sinistorie 147, Nick Price 202, 185, Eddie Walsh 259, 206, 233, 698, Bryden Fraser 105.

Fox Bowling Center

Recent highlight scores in the Wednesday Men's Independent league included a 267 by Mike Bowker, Al
Bullis Sr. 265, 703, Dale Conklin 231, Cody Conway 256, 641, Jim Dibble 232, 279, 735, Chuck Dunlap 231, Art Gately 276, 696, Bill Gleim 253, 641, Paul Ignatovich 269, 698, Steve Jacobi 245, 641, Rob Johnson 266, 697, Donnie Marino 225, 619, Mark McGraw 613, Ed Milk Jr. 235, 601, Josh Milucky 243, Neil Mosher 225, 632, Cory Newman 646, Mitch Persbacker 236, 600, Charlie Reichenbaugh 604, Josh Rice 233, Jonathon Wayne 233, 246, 620, Hank Whitmore 257, Zuke Wormuth 629, Lee Wormuth 242, 245, 628, Jay Wormuth 628, Tony Wright 236, 660.
In the Friday Mixed Doubles Couples league Andy Bullis 279, 653, Anne Couse 180, 195, 534, HoweyCouse 256, 662, Norman E. Ellis 234, Norman C. Ellis 613, Bill Gleim 233, 664, Nick Hazen 631, Aaron Martin 225, Dana McGraw 202, 547, Mark McGraw 245, 657, Rick Mills 255, 615, Brian Robinson 226, 621, Tim Smith 604, Sandy Winans 224, 220, 580, Dan Wormuth 256, 639.
In the Sunday Afternoon Mixed Fun league Ry Cornwell 246, 614, Marty Haeussler 268, 684, Rodney "Taylor" Jester (youth score) 211, Matt Johnson 243, 651, Rick Mills 646, Savanna Mills (youth scores), 151, 159, 425, Fred Shakelton 614, Summer Shakelton (youth scores) 145, 382.

Beechwood Lanes

Recent highlight scores in the Monday Ladies league include a 199, 187, 554 by Diane Staves, Amy Hellerer 186, Tracy Puerschner 184, 179, 519, Beth Schumacher 168, Lori Kimmes 177, 183, 512, Jackie Gieger 185, 166, 179, 521, Jackie Mootz 176.
In the Tuesday Ladies league Lillian Zieres 177, 469, Bonnie Hubert 171.
In the Wednesday Men's league John Fischer 214, Tom Gain 210, Roger Widmann 199, Mike Sorge 196, Matt Hubert 208.

Gravity Alley

Recent highlight scores in the Thursday Mixed league include a 180 by Joy Johannes, Dave Predmore 206, Scott Ropke 246, 600, Judy Mohn 173, 172, 514, Don Weniger 198, Kristy Kretschmer 177, 171, 511.

This column is written by Ed Townsend, a public relations consultant to the amateur and professional sport of bowling and to several bowling writers associations. If you have a topic that would make good reading, or have league and tournament scores and information, Ed can be reached by phone at 845-439-8177, vie e-mail at edwardctownsend@hotmail.com and by fax at 845-230-8674. For a more expanded version of the bowling column, please visit our Web Page at http://bght.blogspot.com/

Ciminelli Paces Go RVing Match Play
Championship Qualifying Field Fans
Have until 11 a.m. Eastern on Thursday
To Enter PBA Bracket Battle on pba.com

Ryan Ciminelli of Cheektowaga, N.Y., led a field eight players who advanced out of the Professional Bowlers Association’s Tour Qualifying Round Wednesday and completed the field of 64 for the Go RVing Match Play Championship which gets underway Thursday at Norwich Bowling and Entertainment Center.

Ciminelli, who has already advanced to the television finals three times during the 2009-10 Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour season, averaged 226.57 to finish the seven-game qualifying round with a 1,586 pinfall total, 22 pins ahead of Jesse Buss of Wichita, Kan. Also advancing to complete the new PBA Bracket Battle field of 64 were Anthony LaCaze, Melrose Park, Ill.; Matt O’Grady, South Amboy, N.J.; Alexa Aguiar, Dartmouth, Mass.; Ryan Abel, Bel Aire, Kan.; David O’Sullivan, Orlando, Fla., and Justin Warhol, Sound Beach, N.Y.

Similar to the NCAA basketball championships’ play-in round, the eight TQR players will face an uphill battle as the Go RVing Match Play Championship enters its best-of-seven-game, single-elimination match play Round of 64 Thursday. Wednesday’s qualifiers will be seeded into the Go RVing bracket against the top eight Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour players on the 2009-10 Harry Smith Point Leader Award list:

Warhol, the No. 8 TQR qualifier, will be seeded 64th and paired against No. 1 seed Walter Ray Williams Jr. of Ocala, Fla., a two-time title winner this season.

No. 7 qualifier O’Sullivan is the No. 63 seed will bowl U.S. Open champion and No. 2 seed Bill O’Neill of Southampton, Pa.

No. 6 Abel will inherit the 62 seed and will face No. 3 Wes Malott of Pflugerville, Texas.

No. 5 Aguiar will be seeded 61st and will bowl defending champion Chris Barnes of Double Oak, Texas, the No. 4 overall seed.

No. 4 O’Grady is the No. 60 seed and is paired against two-time 2009-10 winner and No. 5 seed Mike Scroggins of Amarillo, Texas.

No. 3 LaCaze, who won the Earl Anthony Memorial in January, is seeded 59th and will meet Australia’s two-handed star, Jason Belmonte, the No. 6 seed.

No. 2 Buss will bowl No. 7 seed Tommy Jones of Simpsonville, S.C.

Ciminelli, as the top TQR qualifier, becomes the 57th seed and will be matched up with No. 8 Tom Smallwood of Saginaw, Mich.

Two seeded players withdrew prior to the start of the event. San Diego’s Mike DeVaney stayed home as he and wife Carrie await the imminent arrival of their second child, and Pete Weber of St. Ann, Mo., is still nursing a back injury suffered in Columbus, Ohio. Because of their withdrawals, Eddie Van Daniker Jr. of Essex, Md. (Weber’s first-round opponent), and Canadian George Lambert IV (DeVaney’s pairing) were granted byes and automatically advance to the Round of 32.

With the complete field in place, bowling fans have until the start of Round of 64 matches Thursday at 11 a.m. Eastern to complete their PBA Bracket Battle forms, which are available at no cost on the PBA’s official website, pba.com. The PBA Bracket Battle, like the NCAA basketball brackets played by millions of Americans, give PBA fans a chance to play along during the Go RVing Match Play Championship by picking the winner of each match throughout the tournament. Prizes will be awarded at the conclusion of the tournament on Sunday.

Thursday’s winners will continue competition in Friday’s best-of-seven-game Rounds of 32, 16 and 8. The four remaining survivors will be matched up for three-game, total pinfall matches Saturday evening to determine the two finalists who will square off for the $25,000 top prize in Sunday’s three-game finale on ESPN at 1 p.m. Eastern.

LUMBER LIQUIDATORS PBA TOUR
GO RVING MATCH PLAY CHAMPIONSHIP
Norwich Bowling and Entertainment Center, Norwich, Conn., March 17

PBA TOUR QUALIFYING ROUND
(After 7 games, top 8 advance to Round of 64)
1, Ryan Ciminelli, Cheektowaga, N.Y., 1,586.
2, Jesse Buss, Wichita, Kan., 1,564.
3, (tie) Anthony LaCaze, Melrose Park, Ill., and Matthew O'Grady, South Amboy, N.J., 1,544.
5, Alex Aguiar, Dartmouth, Mass., 1,520.
6, Ryan Abel, Bel Aire, Kan., 1,518.
7, David O'Sullivan, Orlando, Fla, 1,514.
8, Justin Warhol, Sound Beach, N.Y, 1,500.
9, Stephen Haas, Enola, Pa., 1,496, $1,000.
10, Joe Paluszek, Bensalem, Pa., 1,491, $800.
11, Chris Viale, Westfield, Mass., 1,486, $600.
12, Don Lango Jr., New Britian, Conn., 1,483, $500.
13, Bobby Hall II, Landover, Md., 1,481, $400.
14, Edward Roberts, Braintree, Mass., 1,474, $380.
15, Todd Lathrop, Colchester, Conn., 1,468, $460.
16, (tie) Matt Freiberg, Somerset, N.J., and Scott Newell, Deland, Fla., 1,465, $335.
18, Scott Santos, Ledyard, Conn., 1,458, $320.
19, Andres Gomez, Colombia, 1,457, $310.
20, Stephen Fiume, Fiskdale, Mass., 1,450, $300.
21, Andrew Cain, Phoenix, 1,449.
22, Christopher Colella, Templeton, Mass., 1,430.
23, Liz Johnson, Cheektowaga, N.Y., 1,427.
24, (tie) Mike Danielson, Portland, Ore., and Jason Utter, Stevensville, Mich., 1,423.
26, Jonathan Van Hees, Charlestown, R.I., 1,411.
27, Michael Markis, Hawley, Pa, 1,402.
28, Chris Forry, Bridgeport, Conn., 1,398.
29, Sean McAuliffe, Staten Island, N.Y., 1,397.
30, (tie) Bill Holota, Bolton, Conn., and Tony Reynaud, Harwinton, Conn., 1,396.
32, Paul Pinto, Philadelphia, 1,390.
33, Vinny D'Ambrosio III, Staten Island, N.Y., 1,379.
34, Jeff Kubasak, Staten Island, N.Y., 1,376.
35, Billy Trudell, Coventry, R.I., 1,367.
36, Johnathan Bower, Middletown, Pa., 1,366.
37, Vic Marotto, Wallingford, Conn., 1,361.
38, Robert Eddy II, Saginaw, Mich., 1,355.
39, Geoff Wetzler, Tolland, Conn., 1,349.
40, Dave D'Entremont, Middleburg Heights, Ohio, 1,346.
41, Chris Larsen, Norwich, Conn, 1,345.
42, Michael Tessier Jr., Woonsocket, R.I., 1,344.
43, Brandon Robertson, Clinton, Conn., 1,342.
44, Matthew Janas, Central Falls, R.I., 1,329.
45, Alex Cavagnaro, Lindenhurst, N.Y., 1,315.
46, Jason Payne, Niles, Mich., 1,311.
47, Joshua Shriver, Winchester, Va., 1,304.
48, Steven Black, Phoenix, 1,278.
49, Dan Furman, Amsterdam, N.Y., 1,272.
50, Bill DeHaas Jr., Andover, N.J., 1,270.
51, (tie) Jack Nealon, Bowie, Md., and Brian DiCicco, Agawam, Mass., 1,264.
53, Ryan Evans, Acton, Mass., 1,248.
54, Country Alfonso, Wallingford, Conn, 1,246.
55, Lydell Hickey, Bristol, Conn., 1,245.
56, Justin Feldman, Bradford, Pa., 1,241.
57, Justin Arnold, Groton, Conn, 1,235.
58, Joseph Costanzo, Plainview, N.Y., 1,203.
59, Craig Kleinman, North Windham, Conn., 1,200.
60, Ralph Ehrlich, North Massapequa, N.Y., 1,196.
61, Francis Mazzella, Staten Island, N.Y., 1,188.
62, Jason Mahon, East Haven, Conn., 1,187.
63, Joseph Truchan Jr., Ringwood, N.J., 1,178.
64, Steven Landry, Oakville, Conn., 1,176.
65, Christopher Sevick, Norwich, Conn, 1,165.
66, Jaime Tessier, Woonsocket, R.I., 1,164.
67, Robert Jette, Lisbon, Conn., 1,158.
68, Matthew Stewart, Niles, Mich., 1,157.
69, Neil Binder, Shelton, Conn., 1,152.
70, Jason Spanjers, Hamden, Conn., 1,135.
71, Larry Tryon, Peabody, Mass, 1,129.
72, Larry Wentz III, Bristol, Conn., 1,110.
73, Bryan Martinson, Lakeland, Fla., 1,096.
74, Brandon Joseph, Glastonbury, Conn., 1,079.
75, John Schaffer, Greentown, Pa., 1,070.
76, Aaron Graves, Danbury, Conn., 1,067.
77, Dominick Curra, Bedford Hills, N.Y., 1,065.
78, Vincent Carbone, Medford, N.Y., 1,061.
79, Andrew Nosar, Manassas, Va., 1,033.
80, Thomas Durand, West Haven, Conn., withdrew.

USBC HALL OF FAMER DON ELLIS REACHES
60 YEARS AT OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPSRENO

When United States Bowling Congress Hall of Famer Don Ellis of Sugar Land, Texas, made his 60th appearance at the USBC Open Championships recently, he was surrounded by friends, family and hundreds of fellow bowlers.One of those bowlers was his 19-year-old granddaughter, Amanda, who planned her Open Championships debut for this year so it would coincide with Ellis' magical milestone."It was amazing to be a part of this, and I'm really proud of him," said Lopez, who shot 561 in doubles, 498 in team and 491 in singles for a 1,550 all-events total. "He's been doing this for a long time, and it meant a lot to be here with him. I'm really excited to be able to carry on the family tradition at this tournament."Ellis, a member of the tournament's elite 100,000-Pin Club, became the 13th bowler to reach the 60-year plateau. His son Don also reached a milestone Sunday as he competed in his 25th Open Championships."It just doesn't seem like it has been that long," said Ellis, who made his first tournament appearance at the 1947 event in Los Angeles. "The last 15 years have gone by very quickly, but I am happy to be where I am."The 81-year-old right-hander missed four tournaments shortly after his debut, but has been to every event since 1955. In 60 appearances, he has knocked down 107,452 pins for a career average of 193.6 and ranks sixth on the all-time pinfall list. In all, 11 bowlers have reached the 100,000-pin mark.Late USBC Hall of Famer Joe Norris of San Diego tops the career pinfall list with 123,770 pins, which he toppled in a record-tying 71 trips to the tournament. The late Bill Doehrman of Fort Wayne, Ind., also competed 71 times.The sport of bowling has allowed Ellis to see most of the country while traveling to participate in various tournaments, exhibitions and instructional clinics.Ellis was a star in the 1950s and 60s, but found a new love during that time and began focusing on making a living and caring for his family."At the time, it was a little tougher to make a living as a bowler, compared to other sports," said Ellis, who teamed with fellow hall of famer Joe Kristof to win the 1961 Classic Doubles title at the Open Championships. "I ended up spending 46 years as a proprietor because I was able to make a living. We had five centers in Houston."Ellis has as much love for the sport now, as he did in the past. He's also glad that he gets to share the tournament experience with his family."I had no idea that there would be such a ceremony," said Jean, Ellis' wife of 54 years. "When I saw his team walk down Center Aisle without him, I knew he would come out last, but I wasn't prepared for the presentation. Everything was really, really nice, and it was thrilling for his children and grandchildren to take part."Ellis rounded out his milestone appearance with 483 in team and singles and 467 in doubles for a 1,433 all-events total."Bowling is something you can do for a lifetime and meet new people while doing it," Ellis said. "It is quite an honor to be the 13th person to bowl in 60 Open Championships, and it's also an honor to have bowled this long and still love it. But what really keeps me coming back is the friends we come with."Presenting sponsors for the 2010 USBC Open Championships are Circus Circus, Eldorado and Silver Legacy Hotel/Casinos in Reno, Nev. Other sponsors include Sands Regency Casino Hotel, official brackets sponsor, Kegel, official lane maintenance provider, US Steltronic, official scoring system, and supporting sponsors Storm Bowling Products, UPS, Nationwide Insurance, Atlantis Casino Resort and Spa, Harrah's Reno Casino and Hotel and Peppermill Hotel Casino.For more information on the USBC Open Championships, visit USBCopen.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 two million adult and youth members and enhances the bowling experience.2010 USBC OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPSAt National Bowling Stadium, Reno, Nev.(Top 10 division leaders with hometown and pinfalls)REGULAR DIVISIONTeam1, Bluebird Lanes (Dennis Campbell, Ron Davis, Michael Dugan, Robert Flaws, Ray Struck), Orland Park, Ill., 3,122. 2, St. Charles Lanes, St. Charles, Mo., 3,085. 3, Central Saw and Mower, Racine, Wis., 3,081. 4, Bowlers Junction, Hemet, Calif., 3,080. 5, J&J Pro Shop, Mount Crawford, Va., 3,066. 6, Pandorum, Buford, Ga., 3,063. 7, CMS Concrete 2, Nashua, N.H., 3,049. 8, The Bowlers ER, Des Plaines, Ill., 3,035. 9, J Wood's Flooring, Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., 3,030. 10, Pita Uno, Shakopee, Minn., 3,023.Doubles1, Jason Hale, Des Moines, Iowa/Matt Smith, Altoona, Iowa, 1,411. 2, Brian Salapatek, Cortland, Ill./Anthony Jovanovich, DeKalb, Ill., 1,379. 3, Mark Henrichs, Edgar, Wis./Jim Moore, Mosinee, Wis., 1,362. 4, Alvin Lou, El Cajon, Calif./Bob Handley, Winter Park, Fla., 1,342. 5, Richard Voakes Jr., Oshkosh, Wis./Troy Schaefer, Neenah, Wis., 1,326. 6, Mitch Bakies, Reynoldsburg, Ohio/Mark Wolford, West Liberty, Ohio, 1,323. 7, David Meyer, Staatsburg, N.Y./Steve Ferraro, Kingston, N.Y., 1,313. 8, John Bossone, Carroll, Ohio/Carl Cramer Jr., Austintown, Ohio, 1,307. 9, Shawn Mariani/Ryan Mapes, Havre, Mont., 1,301. 10, Lloyd Burleson, San Diego/Greg Brooks, Oro Valley, Ariz., 1,300.Singles1, Barry Zimmerman, Grand Forks, N.D., 766. 2, George Kontos, Joliet, Ill., 760. 3, Larry Thompson Jr., Spring, Texas, 742. 4, Tony Biondi, Orlando, Fla., 734. 5 (tie), Steven Vance, Stone Mountain, Ga., and Troy Kendrick, Laguna Niguel, Calif., 729. 7, Ron Davis, Orland Park, Ill., 727. 8, Matt Smith, Altoona, Iowa, 722. 9 (tie), Steve Blanchet, Lawrence, Mass., and Chris Kirschner, Seattle, 715.All-Events1 (tie), Matt Smith, Altoona, Iowa, and George Kontos Joliet, Ill., 2,073. 3, Barry Zimmerman, Grand Forks, N.D., 2,044. 4, Ray Struck, Orland Park, Ill., 2,023. 5, Robert Phillips, North Ridgeville, Ohio, 2,017. 6, Jim Moore, Mosinee, Wis., 2,016. 7, Curtis Odom, Coldwater, Mich., 1,994. 8, Doug Hayes, Clarksville, Tenn., 1,987. 9, William Banks, Laurel Hill, N.C., 1,986. 10, Thomas Hinz, Joliet, Ill., 1,980.Team All-Events1, Bluebird Lanes (Dennis Campbell, Ron Davis, Michael Dugan, Robert Flaws, Ray Struck), Orland Park, Ill., 9,602. 2, Sign Producers 1, Winter Garden, Fla., 9,341. 3, Team USA, St. Louis, 9,223. 4, Bowlers Junction, Hemet, Calif., 9,214. 5, Super Bowl-Appleton, Kaukauna, Wis., 9,165. 6, Hot Printing 1, Holland, Ohio, 9,135. 7, Breakpoint Pro Shop 1, Sartell, Minn., 9,096. 8, Breakpoint Pro Shop 2, Sartell, Minn., 9,075. 9, Team Dirty, Madison, Wis., 9,060. 10, Bowldocs Pro Shop 1, University Place, Wash., 9,031. CLASSIFIED DIVISIONTeam1, EWI/NPS/Denny's (Lawanda Scott, Lynette Crowther, Derek Arnold, Kelliann Frank, Phillip Savelli), Mentor, Ohio, 2,699. 2, Whitlow Furnace, Scobey, Mont., 2,602. 3, Stevens Seed, Clarion, Iowa, 2,594. 4, Who U Wit, Hayward, Calif., 2,578. 5, Stuart Bowl 3, Stuart, Iowa, 2,573. 6, Schmidt Motors, Ogallala, Neb., 2,567. 7, Minnow's Marine, Havre, Mont., 2,558. 8, Lucky Strike Lanes, Spearfish, S.D. 2,554. 9, PMAHC EHT, Ocala, Fla., 2,552. 10, Lake Country Rollers 1, Clarissa, Minn., 2,547.Doubles1, Tyson Sims/Scott Wilcox, Georgetown, Idaho, 1,182. 2, Greg Allen/Stacey Bauer, Ogallala, Neb., 1,166. 3, Holly Ventura, Harwood Heights, Ill./Bob Zurek, River Grove, Ill., 1,149. 4, Delmar Brownell/Dale Brownell, Spearfish, S.D., 1,148. 5, Scott Werner, Overland Park, Kan./Mark Klyn, Pella, Iowa, 1,145. 6 (tie), Terry Crowther/Monte Gebhardt, Roundup, Mont., and Richard Anderson, Julesburg, Colo./Dan Ford, Chappell, Neb., 1,141. 8, Terry Henkle, Garrison, Iowa/Larry Albers, Van Horne, Iowa, 1,139. 9, Kevin Jenkins/George Haney, Incline Village, Nev., 1,138. 10 (tie), Delbert Peterson, Glendale, Ariz./Kyle Wagner, Canton, Ill., and Jerry Bormann, Moorhead, Minn./Linda Hirchert, West Fargo, N.D., 1,131.Singles1, David Garcez, Merced, Calif., 669. 2, Mark Plute, Montrose, Colo., 644. 3, Curt VanLaningham, Ogallala, Neb., 624. 4, Ryan Goettsch, Galva, Iowa, 618. 5, Robb Waynick, Dunbridge, Ohio, 605. 6, Ryan Fritchen, Dakota Dunes, S.D., 604. 7 (tie), Patrick Mcdermand, Villa Park, Ill., and Roger Southland, Lowell, Mich., 595. 9, Anne Woodhull, Golden Valley, Minn., 593. 10, John Stolarski, Waterford, Mich., 592.All-Events1, Richard Eisenhut, Downers Grove, Ill., 1,766. 2, John Stolarski, Waterford, Mich., 1,733. 3, Doug Boleyn, Waterloo, Iowa, 1,719. 4, Ryan Goettsch, Galva, Iowa, 1,702. 5, Mark Plute, Montrose, Colo., 1,701. 6, Robb Waynick, Dunbridge, Ohio, 1,690. 7, Gena Harvey, Boise, Idaho, 1,689. 8, Jay Lere, Moorhead, Minn., 1,687. 9, Greg Allen, Ogallala, Neb., 1,683. 10, Nick Petri Jr., Bolivar, Mo., 1,679.

Desire to Attend His Own Tournament
Drives Mark Roth’s Recovery Efforts

Over the past few weeks, the intensity and desire that carried Mark Roth to 34 Professional Bowlers Association Tour titles has started to return. The 58-year-old hall of famer – the bowler who was recognized as the fifth-best in PBA history just a year ago – has been working harder than he has in years, trying to get ready for his next tournament.

But when Mark Roth makes his appearance at the GEICO Mark Roth Plastic Ball Championship at AMF Babylon Lanes in West Babylon, N.Y., March 24-28, it will be dramatically different than any he has ever made before. He will arrive at the Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour event named in his honor in a wheelchair.

The fact of the matter is, since suffering a severe stroke on May 31 that paralyzed the entire left side of his body, Mark Roth has been in a battle for his life, his wife, Denise Roth, disclosed today. The stroke was bad enough, but Roth also suffers from diabetes and heart disease, and complications that seemed to arise on an almost daily basis.

But about six weeks ago, she said, Mark suddenly began to arise from the frustration and despair, and it’s all because he wants to attend his own tournament.

“I have some great news,” Denise said last Friday. “Mark has not had to go into the emergency room or anything in about six weeks. He seems to be much stronger. He still has very little use of his left arm, leg, ankle and hand, but he has gained some weight and looks more like the old Mark Roth.

“Most of his facial paralysis is gone. Most of his speech is back and pretty clear. He’s had a lot of problem with his left shoulder, hand, arm, but he’s going to get a Botox treatment that will help him make the trip to Long Island. He has been working so diligently just to get to that tournament. He doesn’t want to miss it.

“Oh, boy, at this point I’m just so happy to see him making some progress. That’s good medicine for me, too. It’s something that’s keeping him working hard. For a while, I wasn’t sure he was going to be able to make the trip. We’re keeping our fingers crossed that he’ll hold up.”

In the weeks following his stroke, Denise said she did her best to maintain a positive outlook, for herself and for Mark, but things had not been going well. He was in and out of hospital with all kind of complications. I honestly thought things were going to end. But over the last six weeks, everything has all of a sudden started to come together for him.

“He can walk a short distance now – not real good, but he can use a quad cane (Roth is unable to use a walker because he has no use of his left hand). He has all of his long-term memory, but he has some short-term difficulty,” she continued. “He is probably going have to rest quite a bit, but this is such good medicine for him. He needs something like this to up-lift him.

“I think people will be surprised to see how well he does look at this point. About six weeks ago, it seemed pretty hopeless.”

Denise Roth also said Mark’s drive to make the trip to Long Island is also fueled by the couple’s desire to say “thank you” to the incredible out-pouring of support they have received.

“Wow, I believe in the power of prayer more than I did before,” she said. “I want to thank everyone we can. The prayers and donations have been incredible. Because of the donations we have received, the extra rehab he has been able to get has been astronomical. From now on, it’s rehab, rehab, rehab, just to get back as much function as he can.

“We’ve heard from people in Afghanistan, Israel, from all over the world,” she continued. “There actually is a guy named Jeffrey – he’s in the U.S. Air Force – who sent Mark a coin he kept in his pocket for good luck while flying missions over Afghanistan. He sent that coin to Mark.

“We got a letter from a cute elderly lady named Lula with a card and $10. She asked how I was doing, and said she knows the wife usually gets overlooked, and that she’d send me a million dollars if she could. All of the cards and letters have been so touching…”

In another week, Mark and Denise Roth will arrive in West Babylon, where they will try to set aside the stress and anxieties of the past 10 months. Rather than bowling for a 35th career title, to break his tie for third place on the all-time list with Pete Weber, Mark Roth will watch today’s stars – young and old – try to weave the same kind of magic he produced when his radical grip-it-and-rip-it technique with low-tech plastic bowling balls revolutionized the sport back in the 1970s.

“We both need to have a little fun, and nothing could be better than for him to have a chance to spend some time with his second family,” she smiled. “After all, Mark Roth is bowling, and bowling is Mark Roth.”

The GEICO Mark Roth Plastic Ball Championship is a unique event in which 64 PBA members will use identical plastic bowling balls bearing Mark Roth’s likeness. The special limited-edition bowling balls, created by OnTheBallBowling.com, are available through the company’s website for $100. A portion of the proceeds benefit a Mark Roth medical assistance fund.

PBA Turns Back Clock On
Technology for Unique Tour Event

What if the PGA Tour required players to use persimmon woods or the USTA required its players to use wood-framed tennis rackets instead of today’s equipment that incorporates high-tech titanium and graphite technology?

The Professional Bowlers Association GEICO Mark Roth Plastic Ball Championship March 24-28 at AMF Babylon Lanes in West Babylon, N.Y., is the one event on the Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour that turns back the clock on bowling ball technology so that players will have less reliance on today’s high-powered equipment.

This year’s Plastic Ball Championship is named after PBA Hall of Famer and native New Yorker Mark Roth who used plastic ball technology to win most of his 34 Tour titles, which ranks him in a tie for third all-time with fellow Hall of Famer Pete Weber. Roth, who suffered a stroke last May, is planning to attend the event.

Plastic polyester balls like the ones that will be used in this tournament are used today almost exclusively for spare shooting due to the balls’ proclivity to go straight on the majority of today’s lane conditions. Plastic was the most popular material used in bowling ball construction in the 1970s and early 80s. Today’s most popular balls are made of a resin material with exotic weight blocks, which enhance the balls’ ability to hook.

In addition to using equipment that emphasizes a player’s ability to make adjustments without being able to rely on the technology built into today’s more advanced bowling balls, the Plastic Ball Championship equalizes the playing field much like auto racing’s former International Race of Champions (IROC) series that required drivers to race the same type of car.

In 2009 Jeff Carter of Springfield, Ill., won the GEICO Plastic Ball Championship in Wheat Ridge, Colo., for his first career Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour title by defeating Hall of Famer Pete Weber, 235-213, in the championship match.

“Actually, I didn’t know what to expect and didn’t have a lot of confidence going into the tournament,” Carter said. “But as the tournament went on I found that a lot of the variables, mainly having to worry about what equipment to use, were eliminated. It kept things simple so I could concentrate on making the right physical adjustments and make good shots.”

The Plastic Ball Championship will require all 64 players to use two identical special Mark Roth custom-designed bowling balls manufactured by OntheBallBowling.com. These will be the only balls they will be able to use throughout the tournament. A limited number of balls also will be available for sale with a portion of the proceeds going to Roth’s continuing medical expenses.

The tournament is one of the Tour’s four Extreme Swing events. It will be conducted on the Tour’s Shark lane conditioning pattern, but with a lower volume of oil applied to the lane surface than normal.

Among the field of 64 players competing will be Australian two-handed star and 2008-09 Rookie of the Year Jason Belmonte, who made PBA Tour history last season at AMF Babylon Lanes, by becoming the first two-handed player to win a PBA Tour title, as well as native Long Islander Mike Fagan of Patchogue, N.Y., who won his second PBA Tour title at the Dick Weber Open in Orange County, Calif., in January. Also competing will be Hall of Famer and time 14-time Tour titlist Johnny Petraglia of Jackson, N.J.—a contemporary of Roth’s—who received a commissioner’s exemption for this event.

As the PBA Tour heads down the homestretch, as the second to last event of the 2009-10 PBA Tour season, the Plastic Ball Championship could be a determining factor for Player of the Year honors.

Currently Bill O’Neill of Southamption, Pa., leads the Player of the Year race with a four-point lead over Hall of Famer and all-time PBA win leader Walter Ray Williams Jr. in second and an eight-point lead over Mike Scroggins of Amarillo, Texas, in third.



GEICO Mark Roth Plastic Ball Championship Schedule

AMF Babylon Lanes, West Babylon, N.Y.

Wednesday, March 24
8 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour Qualifying Round (7 games total pins. Players required to use plastic bowling balls)
4:30 – 6 p.m. - Practice Session

Thursday, March 25
10 a.m. – 2 p.m. - Round of 64 Round 1 (7 Games)
5 – 9 p.m. - Round of 64 Round 2 (7 Games)
Cut to the top 32 Players

Friday, March 26
11 a.m. – 3 p.m. - Match Play Round 1 (9 games)
Cut to top 16 players

6 – 10 p.m. - Match Play Round 2 (9 games)
Top 5 advance to ESPN finals

Saturday, March 27
Pro-am Events and PBA Fan Day
Pro-am times: 9:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m, 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Sunday, March 28
2 p.m. (Eastern) - Live ESPN Television Finals from AMF Babylon Lanes

Here & There Column 3-16-10

The Census Impacts Our Communities

Heard several folks in the local supermarket the other day saying that they were not going to waste their time filling out any Census reports and that the government already knows too much about us.......but did you know that participation isn't just important......it's mandatory.
The U.S. Census Bureau is a division of the U.S. Department of Commerce and is a count of everyone living in the United States and is mandated by the U.S. Constitution.
The information gathered by the Census is used to apportion congressional seats to states and is also used to distribute more than $400 billion in federal funds to tribal, state and local governments each year and to make decisions about what community services to provide.
The Census Bureau has promised us that the 2010 Census form is one of the shortest in U.S. history consisting of 10 questions and will take us about 10 minutes to complete.
For those who have concerns about their personal information there is federal law that protects our identity and the information we give.
The Census Bureau says very firmly that no one can get access to census data and they promise to protect the confidentiality of information we provide.
Title 13 of the U.S. Code protects the confidentiality of all information and violating this law is a crime with severe penalties......in addition, other federal laws, including the Confidential Statistical Efficiency Act reinforce these protections.
It was interesting to learn that all Census Bureau employees have to take the oath of nondisclosure and are sworn for life to protect the confidentiality of the data obtain in the Census report.
The Census Bureau also points out that private information is never published and that it is against the law to disclose or publish names, addresses including GPS coordinates, social security numbers and telephone numbers.
One would have to believe that information provided in the Census report is private and that the penalty for unlawful disclosure is a fine of up to $250,000 or imprisonment of up to 5 years, or both.
We urge everyone to take a few minutes of your time, fill out the report and mail it back. The information collected helps to determine federal funding for hospitals, job training centers, schools, senior centers, bridges, tunnels and other public works projects and emergency services.
If you deposit the mailed Census form into your circular waste basket you can expect a knock on your door within the next four months......be a responsible citizen, fill it out and mail it back.

Bowling Highlights Column 3-12-10

Would You Believe Hoffmann Strikes Again

When your hot your hot and there doesn't appear to be any way of stopping a runaway train like 68-year-old Monticello bowler John Hoffmann.
Yes folks, he's in the headlines again as he recorded his fourth 300 game of this 2009-10 league season and his 28th career 300 on March 1 in the Monday Men's league at Kiamesha Lanes.
He used the Roto Grip Quest bowling ball to record 19 strikes in a row during his March 1 three-game match on lanes 9 and 10.
Hoffmann said he just could not carry in the first game of the night but did strike out in the 10th frame, then clipped the maples for 12 strikes in a row for the 300 and added the first four strikes in game three before the seven pin stayed up for a 238 and a 724 series.
His three other 300 games this bowling season were recorded on February 15, January 18 and on November 11, 2009, all at Kiamesha Lanes.
His present Monday league average is 225.
John won the high average bowler honors with a 229 in the Tri-County NY USBC Association for the 2006-07 season. He bowled professionally from 1990 to 1993 in the Northeast Regional Professional Bowlers Association where he got his "Little Lefty" nickname from PBA Tour Bowler Tommy Delutz Jr.
Hoffmann was also the 2007 Tri-County NY Men's Senior USBC Champion and is also a New Jersey State Senior Champion.
Hoffmann has been bowling for some 53 years, is single and retired and lives in the South Woods Road area of the Town of Thompson.

Bowling Tip
By Mike Luongo

Bowlers: This weeks tip is for parents with children who either bowl in a youth league or bowl regularly with their own equipment.
The first question for parents is.......when was the last time you had your child's fit checked on their bowling ball at your local pro-shop?
Children tend to grow quickly and the gripping holes in their bowling balls must be adjusted to accommodate this growth.
Bowling with poor-fitting equipment can become frustrating and uncomfortable . In most cases, it will only take a minute or two for adjustments to be made.
Also, if your child has his or her own bowling shoes, you can check the size yourself to see if the fit is acceptable. Do not wait for blisters to form on the toes.
Remember, the game is meant to be enjoyed, not to be a form of torture.
Mike Luongo is technically certified through IBPSIA as a Pro Shop Operator and Master Instructor. He is also a Silver Level Coach with the USBC and is a Sales Advisor and Special Events Coordinator with the Storm and Roto Grip Bowling Ball Company. 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

PBA

Mike Scroggins is having a good year on the PBA tour. He won his eighth-career title and second of this season by defeating Brian Kretzer, 206-195, last Sunday afternoon in the PBA Etonic Don Johnson Eliminator finals at Sequoia Pro Bowl in Columbus, Ohio.
The tour takes a week off now and returns to action during the week of March 17-21 for the Go RVing Match Play Championship at the Norwich Bowling & Entertainment Center in Norwich, Conn.
An online "PBA Bracket Battle," giving fans a chance to pick winners of all matches from start to finish, was announced March 10 on the PBA's official website, pba.com



Local Scores

Kiamesha Lanes

Recent highlight scores in the Monday Men's league include a 226, 619 by Michael Mulligan, Gil Suarez 234, Dan Ricco 237, 279, 700, Mike Weiner 616, Jaryl Scott 234, 268, 697, Donald Durland 634, Josh Strang 661, Tom Belgiovene 243, 633, John Hoffmann 626, John Fischer 235, 620, William Bartley 628, Dave Graham 608, Serafin Rodriguez Jr. 243, 637, Peter Mitro 601, Jo Jo VanKeuren 245, 245, 267, 757, Craig Wilhelm 268, 629, Al Caycho 268, 644, Jon Wilhelm 629, Vincent Scuderi 606, Angel Rodriguez 252, 642, Frank Scuderi 227, Roy Sweeney 600, Eddie Lake 237, 226, 664, Rick Lake 256, 247, 722, Lloyd Bridges 225, 651, Niifa Laresko 230, 661, Keith Smith 227, 612, Jack Moylan 259, 694, Robert Sze 244, 671, James Ratner 237, 235, 689, Kort Wheeler 228, 647, Daniel VanAken 244, 246, 675, Arthur Stevens 225, Timothy Totten 256, 652, Mal Press 246, 226, 676, Ronnie Totten 247, 679.
In the Tuesday Mixed Firefighters league Debra Blackford 182, Carena Collura 222, 183, 541, Carol MacAdam 190, 195, 554, Lisa Cartwright 199, 511, Russ Keesler 232, Jason Jones 605, Fran Kaiser 503, Debbie Durland 182, 203, 563, Mal Press 229, Jon Wilhelm 231, 226, 237, 694, Ed Guthrie 610, Mary Lee Williams 541, Joan Lake 189, George Kelley 225, Roberta Yakin 202, 193, 539, John Hoffmann 247, 257, 267, 771, Eddie Lake 266, 247, 234, 747, Linda Schaefer 180, 521, Larry Berens 607.
In the Wednesday Men's league George VanAken Jr. 617, Daniel VanAken 255, 605, Kenny Atkins 239, 620, Kenneth Hopkins Jr. 228, 630, Craig Wilhelm 235, Kevin Stackhouse 235, 225, 649, Al Caycho 227, 613, Mike Weiner 269, 659, Juan Lopez 225, John Lopez 246, 612, Robert Yakin Jr. 237, 621, William Danchak 231, Josh Strang 236, 224, 664, John Hoffmann 230, 622, Rick Lara 236, 606, Tim McIntyre 236, 257, 680, Anthony Atkins 233, Wayne Atkins 227, Eddie Lake 235, 631, Matt Fallon 645, Jon Wilhelm 246, 618, Richard Bradford 242, Donald Durland 619.
In the Ladies Thursday league Mari Jane Conklin 187, 504, Joan Lake 203, 206, 569, Mardette Wilcox 192, Stephanie Davis 181, Connie Mckenley 186, Lisa Cartwright 180, Kathy King 181, Margaret Quick 201, Rudy Hoke 191, 504, Debbie Durland 256, 585, Christine Schultz 190, 504, Barbara Durbak 181, 188, 542, Debbie Heins 183, 506.

Gravity Alley

Recent highlight scores in the Thursday Mixed league include a 226 by Dave Predmore, Scott Ropke 225, Judy Mohn 182, 531.

Beechwood Lanes

Recent highlight scores in the Monday Ladies league include a 180 by Diane Staves, Lois Erdman 167, Barbara Cady 163, Jackie Gieger 168, Jody Schanil 161, Tracy Puerschner 178.
In the Tuesday Ladies league Lillian Zieres 200, 513, Maureen Schlott 189, 484, Kelly Gombita 174.

Fox Bowling Center

Recent highlight scores in the Wednesday Men's Independent league include a 237, 644 by Tom Anderson, Al Bullis Sr. 234, 620, Andrew Bullis 225, 228, 632, Frank Couse Sr. 234, 634, Jim Dibble 236, 279, 729, Brandon Drumm 605, Art Gately 237, 235, 642, Craig Gehrig 231, 655, Bill Gleim 244, 259, 707, Dylan Green 247, Jeremy Gulley 629, Jack Hazen 245, 247, 700, Rob Johnson 239, 651, Pat Kille 279, 227, 709, Ryan Kille 624, Donnie Marino 237, 248, 237, 722, Mark McGraw 230, 650, Neil Mosher 236, 670, Mitch Persbacker 637, Dick Price 245, 245, 635, Sam Rowe 230, Jonathon Wayne 278, 695, Zuke Wormuth 225, 652, Jay Wormuth 627,
In the Thursday Men's Deposit National league Al Bullis Jr. 244, 268, 706, Al Bullis Sr. 278, 696, Andy Bullis 606, Mike Costello 604, Jeff Curtis 620, Lenn Davis 244, 608, Nate Finch 608, Bill Gifford 610, Bill Gleim 226, 643, Robert Johnson 235, 232, 641, Greg Keesler 238, 666, John Lanner 225, 626, Dave Lester 269, 676, Rick Mills 235, 638, Neil Mosher 632, Jim Valentine 225, 609.
In the Friday Mixed Doubles Couples league Andy Bullis 265, 248, 730, Anne Couse 203, 195, 542, Howey Couse 227, 645, Norman C. Ellis 245, 630, Bill Gleim 248, 606, Dana McGraw 205, 517, Rick Mills 241, 634, Jen Smith 257, 560, Dan Wormuth 614, Jay Wormuth 225, 613.
In the Saturday Morning Youth leagues, in the Junior League Caitlin Slatcher 213, Bantam girls division Kayla Smith 121, Bantam Boys division Ryan Slatcher 153.
In the Sunday Afternoon Mixed Fun league Ray Cornwell 235, 658, Marty Haeussler 235, 625, Matt Johnson 235, 625, Dave Mills 246, 639, Rick Mills 258, 696, Savanna Mills (youth scores) 133, 159, Summer Shakelton (youth score) 153, Ed Townsend 228, Shirley Townsend 185, Chris Wadeson (youth scores), 214, 585.

This column is written by Ed Townsend, a public relations consultant to the amateur and professional sport of bowling and to several bowling writers associations. If you have a topic that would make good reading, or have league and tournament scores and information, Ed is available by phone at 845-439-8177, vie e-mail at edwardctownsend@hotmail.com, by fax at 845-230-8674. For a more expanded version of the bowling column, please visit our Web Page at http://bght.blogspot.com/

Tournament Schedule

March 13-14, Bowl For Breath Best Ball Doubles, 1 and 7 p.m., Fox Bowling Center Hancock, contact Bill Gleim 607-637-4401.
March 18, Bowling For Hospice fundraiser, noon, Chester Colonial Lanes, please contact Briger Security Guard Services 782-3352.
March 27-May 2, 58th Annual Hancock NY Fox Bowling Center Handicap Tournament. Please call Bill Gleim 607-637-4401.
March 27-28, Three person Handicap No-Tap Team Tournament, Walton Lanes, Walton, NY. Please call Scott Moore 607-746-7885.
April 9-May 16, 74th Annual NYS USBC WBA Women's Championship Tournament. Syracuse, NY, contact Nancy Walczyk 716-662-0018.
April 10-May 16, 86th Annual New York State (USBC) Open Championships, Niagara Falls, NY, contact Paul Kupelian, 315-623-7100.
April 10-May 16, 63ed Annual NYS Elks Bowling Tournament, Rochester, NY, contact lodge 585-334-1900.
April 17-May 16, 29th Annual No Tap Tournament, South Side Bowl, Scranton, Pa. contact South Side Bowl 570-961-5213.
April 17-May 2, Idle Hour Lanes 59th Annual Bowling Tournament, Scranton, Pa, contact Idle Hour 570-489-7526.

Scroggins Wins Eighth PBA Title

In Etonic Don Johnson Eliminator


Mike Scroggins of Amarillo, Texas, won his eighth career title and second of the 2009-10 season in the Professional Bowlers Association’s Etonic Don Johnson Eliminator finals at Sequoia Pro Bowl last Sunday afternoon, surviving a 10th-frame error to edge home-state favorite Brian Kretzer of Dayton, Ohio, 206-195, in the championship match bowled at Columbus, Ohio.

Scroggins, 45, put together three strikes in the middle of the final game to pull away from Kretzer, but when he left and missed a 7 pin in the 10th frame, he gave Kretzer a chance to strike out for a tie. Kretzer got a break when he kicked out the 6 pin for his first strike in the 10th, but then he left the 2-4-5-8 on his second shot to end his hopes for his first title.

“I didn’t miss a 7 pin all week,” Scroggins said later. “I just got the ball a little left. I knew I missed it as soon as I let it go, and then I sat down and starting thinking about a roll-off.

“After finishing second in the U.S. Open last week, I wasn’t expecting much,” the 45-year-old Scroggins said. “But I got lined up after the first seven games and went from nowhere to somewhere.”

With his second win of the year, Scroggins has become a candidate for PBA Player of the Year honors heading into the final three events of the season.

“I’m just trying to follow in Walter Ray Williams Jr.’s footsteps,” he grinned. “He’s been setting an example for us older guys.”

Williams, at age 50, also is a two-time winner this season. Bill O’Neill, Williams and Scroggins are one-two-three in the PBA Player of the Year point standings.

Scroggins and Kretzer eliminated Finland’s Osku Palermaa, who had the high score in the first round, to reach the title match. In the second game, Palermaa lost his pocket just long enough for Scroggins and Kretzer to sail past him. Scroggins had a string of seven strikes on his way to a 254 game, Kretzer almost matched him with a six-bagger for a 245 and Palermaa put together a late string of four strikes for a 211.

Reigning PBA Player of the Year Wes Malott of Pflugerville, Texas, was the first player eliminated after bowling a 195 in the opening Eliminator game. Palermaa led the first round with a 233, Kretzer posted a 211 and Scroggins a 203 game.

During Sunday’s finals, Jimmy Johnson, son of the late PBA Hall of Famer after whom the tournament is named, and his wife Minda presented a check to Nationwide Children’s Hospital of Columbus and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation for $40,826. The 2010 contribution brings the total raised during the tournament for Nationwide Children’s Hospital to more than $100,000 over the past three years.

The Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour will take a week off during NCAA conference basketball playoffs week before returning to action in its own version of “March Madness,” the Go RVing Match Play Championship March 17-21 at Norwich Bowling and Entertainment Center in Norwich, Conn.

This year, for the first time, the PBA will offer fans a chance to play along with the Match Play Championship. An online “PBA Bracket Battle,” giving fans a chance to pick winners of all matches from start to finish, will be announced Wednesday on the PBA’s official website, pba.com.

LUMBER LIQUIDATORS PBA TOUR
ETONIC DON JOHNSON ELIMINATOR
Sequoia Pro Bowl, Columbus, Ohio, Sunday

Championship
Mike Scroggins, Amarillo, Texas ($25,000) def. Brian Kretzer, Dayton, Ohio ($13,000), 206-195.

Semifinal Round (low score eliminated)
Scroggins 254, Kretzer 245, Osku Palermaa, Finland, 211 (Palermaa eliminated earned $7,000).

First Round (low score eliminated)
Palermaa 233, Kretzer 211, Scroggins 203, Wes Malott, Pflugerville, Texas, 195 (Malott eliminated, earned $6,000).

Kulick Honored for Her Place in History

At International Women’s Day Reception

The last thing Kelly Kulick could have imagined as she rolled her way to victory in the Professional Bowlers Association Tournament of Champions in January was that her historic victory would lead to a visit to the White House.

And beyond simply acknowledging her as the first woman to win a Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour title, Kulick found herself being honored as an American pioneer who had carved out a unique place in the nation’s history as the first woman to win a major championship in a male-dominated professional sport.

Kulick was invited to attend the International Women’s Day reception held in the East Room of the White House on Monday March 8 in celebration of Women’s History Month. Hosted by President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama, approximately 250 women attended the event which honored contributions of women in history and contemporary society.

The event began approximately 5 p.m. Eastern with a speech by Mrs. Obama who recognized all those in attendance.

“Today all of you are joining the long list of incredible women who have graced these halls both as visitors and as residents, from admirals and actresses to civil rights pioneers,” Mrs. Obama told the group. “We’re here today not just to pay tribute to leaders and icons and household names. During Women’s History Month, we’re also here to honor the quiet heroes who’ve shaped this country… We honor the women who traveled those lonely roads to be the first in those courtrooms, to be the first ones in those boardrooms, to be the first ones on those playing fields… We honor women who refused to listen to those who would say that you couldn’t or shouldn’t pursue your dreams.”

President Obama then spoke of the roles of women in building America, the women he has appointed to positions of influence within his administration, and his hopes for gender equality in the future.

Kulick said there was no formal receiving line or photo opportunities, but after the speeches by President and Mrs. Obama, there was a short reception where she did get to meet very briefly with President Obama.

“I was really just taking it all in and I was looking to see who I might recognize,” Kulick said. “They might have been there, but I didn’t notice any other sports figures.

“I didn’t have a chance to speak at length with the president or first lady, but I did get to meet the president and shake his hand, which was certainly a great honor.

Kulick said it was a simple and moving ceremony.

“The president’s speech was very moving and paid tribute to the accomplishments of women who have been pioneers in all walks of life and as role models we are setting the example for the generations that will follow us,” Kulick added.

Kulick’s visit to the White House was the most recent by a bowler in an official capacity, but there have been a handful of other noteworthy White House visits by bowlers since 1971.

President Nixon, an avid bowler himself, invited a delegation of Federation Internationale des Quilleurs (FIQ) World Championship bowlers and officials to the White House lanes around the time of the World Championships which were held in Milwaukee in 1971.

In 1984, AMF World Cup participants Mary Mohacsi, the late Darold Meisel, Laura Dulisse and two-time PBA Tour champion Jack Jurek met with President Reagan and Vice President Bush in the Oval Office prior to the World Cup in Sydney, Australia, where Jurek won the men’s individual competition.

In 2008, the Vanderbilt University team that won the NCAA Women’s Collegiate Bowling Championship was invited to the White House to meet President George W. Bush as part of a celebration of collegiate championships.

HAMMER’S BLACK WIDOW STING
MAKES THE DIFFERENCE FOR THOMPSON

“Everything is bigger in Texas.” This saying has been around for as long as anyone can remember. Larry Thompson Jr., however, may be the exception to that rule.
Thompson, of Spring, Tex., belongs to a group of bowlers that like to call themselves the “Texas Midgets,” referring to their small stature, even though they hail from the ‘Big State’ of Texas.
The 5-foot-7-inch 32 year old right-hander recently jumped to the top of the leader board in what is widely considered the most prestigious bowling tournament in the country, the United States Bowling Congress (USBC) Open Championships. Thompson bowled games of 215, 238, and 279 for a 742 series, topping the previous high mark of 729.
“I had a bunch of friends watching on the web cams,” said Thompson. “I couldn’t have done it without their support.”
As excited as he is to have taken over the lead in such a big event, he also knows the tournament has a long way to go.
“The experience of shooting this set and series at the Open is a great privilege to do and an honor at that,” said Thompson. “It would be great if it stays throughout the Open, but knowing the bowlers that are going, I doubt it will. It is still nice to see my name in the number 1 position at this time. What even makes this a greater experience is all the great bowlers calling and texting me on my accomplishment.”
Thompson used his Black Widow Sting throughout the event while posting his personal best All-Events score of 1955, currently good enough for second place.
“I would like to say again thanks to Hammer for giving me the opportunity for being on staff and being able to perform this great accomplishment with the best products on the market!” exclaimed Thompson.
“Of course we’re proud of Larry’s performance,” said Hammer Brand Manager Jeff Ussery. “The Sting is a great ball, and having a Hammer in your bag is sure to make a difference at this year’s tournament.”
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, Track and Powerhouse™. Its commercial product brand is Ebonite Bowling Center Direct.

Here & There Column 3-9-10

Will Government Privatization Work?

Simply stated "Privatization" is the incidence or process of transferring ownership of a business enterprise, agency or public service from the public sector (government) to the private sector (business). In a broader sense, privatization refers to transfer of any government function to the private sector including government functions like law enforcement and revenue collection.
There is much talk, rumors and here say circulating around Sullivan County that county government is looking at the possibility of privatizing its Adult Care Center and there is even many in the Department of Public Works that say the county is more and more leaning to privatize these operations.
We can not be sure what the county is up to when county officials indicate they could consider establishment of a solid waste authority which would be an autonomous agency charged with the mission of managing Sullivan's trash disposal.
These type of authorities elsewhere in New York State have the ability to take on debt independent of the county and charge fees. Some might consider this privatizing the solid waste disposal operations for the county and the state Legislature would have to approve this move.
Privatization is certainly nothing new and has been around since Ancient Greece times and in the Roman Republic private individuals and companies performed the majority of services including tax collection. In the 1950's Winston Churchill's government privatized the British steel industry.
Even today a major ongoing privatization is the privatization of Japan Post which is the Japanese post service and the largest bank in the world.
Those who favor privatisation believe that private market factors can more efficiently deliver many services or goods than government due to free market competition and they say over time this will lead to lower prices, improved quality, more choices, less corruption, less red tape and quicker delivery.
Some will argue that the basic economic argument given for privatisation is that governments have few incentives to ensure that the enterprises they own are well run. There are many who say that state (county) run municipalities tend to be bureaucratic and that a political government may only be motivated to improve a function when its poor performance becomes politically sensitive and such as improvement can be reversed easily by another regime.
The major opposition to privatization is from those who dispute the claims concerning the alleged lack of incentive for governments to ensure that the enterprises they own are well run on the basis of the idea that governments are proxy owners answerable to the people.
The subject of privatization presents an interesting topic with pros and cons on both sides. It certainly is not as simple as it seems so caution and lots of in depth study is required. Accurate dollars and cents facts and figures must also be communicated to taxpayers and residents of our county.

Bowling Highlights Column 3-5-10

58th Annual Fox Bowling Tournament

The 58th Annual Fox Bowling Center Handicap Bowling Tournament will be held weekends starting March 27 through May 2.
The center is located on Route 97 in Hancock, NY.
The tournament features men, women and mixed team handicap events, a singles event and a doubles event.
There are scratch divisions for men's women's and singles events.
This tournament also features an optional event best two out of three games (scratch) bowled in the team event.
There is a 50/50 raffle every squad and a high over average scratch payment in an individual series every squad, any event.
Entry fee for team event is $130 per team plus $3 peer bowler for optional individual event. Entry fee for the singles event is $26 per person and doubles event is $52 per team.
USBC general playing rules and regulations will apply for this tournament.
Total prize money paid out last year was $14,362,00.
There will be no doubles or singles events on May 2 at 1 p.m. Tournament times on Saturday's is 12:30, 4 and 7 p.m. and on Sunday's at 1 p.m. with no bowling on Easter Sunday.
The 10-pin rule is in effect and team event lanes will be reconditioned before each squad.
For additional information and tournament reservations call Tournament Manager Bill Gleim at 607-637-4401.

PBA

Bill O'Neill defeated Mike Scroggins, 267-207 to win the 67th Lumber Liquidators U.S. Open last Sunday afternoon at Woodland Bowl in Indianapolis.
The Etonic Don Johnson Eliminator finals will be televised Sunday at 12:30 on ESPN.

Local Scores

Kiamesha Lanes

Recent highlight scores in the Monday Men's league include a 237, 609 by Gil Suarez, Dan Ricco 245, 654, Paul Durland 235, Donald Durland 239, 228, 683, Josh Strang 236, 235, 676, Tom Belgiovene 258, 663, John Fischer 288, 634, Nate Sanders 226, Dave Graham 257, 268, 738, Al Caycho 249, 624, Jon Wilhelm 266, 662, Vincent Scuderi 234, Angel Rodriguez 236, Frank Scluderi 232, 632, Roy Sweeney 244, 642, Eddie Lake 225, 268, 279, 772, Rick Lake 243, Samii Markao 244, 608, John Lopez 258, 663, Jack Moylan 226, 236, 663, Robert Sze 606, James Ratner 226, 227, 667, Kort Wheeler 233, 246, 691, Paul Curry 625, William Helms 244, 605, Mal Press 235, 233, 663, Ronnie Totten 235, 609.
In the Tuesday Mixed Firefighters league Debra Blackford 193, 181, 525, Carena Collura 203, 526, Carol MacAdam 182, Andrea Grossman 202, 519, Ed Guthrie 611, John Cascone 278, 649, Cecil Walters 239, 611, Mary Lee Williams 180, 201, 197, 578, Joan Lake 191, 533, Dorian Jennings 190, Shane Cunningham 234, 607, Connie Press 193, Fran Kaiser 180, Debbie Durland 245, 247, 198, 690, Map Press 246, 669, Jon Wilhelm 653, Kevin Stackhouse 234, 645, Roberta Yakin 216, 218, 591, John Hoffmann 238, 267, 685.
In the Wednesday Men's league George VanAken 629, Daniel VanAken 245, 650, Kenny Atkins 235, 631, Justin Lopez 235, Juan Lopez 232, Robert Yakin Jr. 225, 603, Frank DiConstanzo 234, 600, George Battle Jr. 626, Frank Muller Jr. 234, 612, Allan Jones 267, 705, Larry Berens 249, 641, Dean Shattuck 259, 228, 691, Dale Sonneschein 268, 654, Josh Strang 238, 611, John Hoffmann 278, 642, Rick Lara 249, Tim McIntyre 277, 641, Frank Emmens 258, 626, Anthony Atkins 238, 638, Eddie Lake 247, 264, 727, George Fallon 227, 244, 664, Matt Fallon 237, 645, Jon Wilhelm 229, 620, Donald Durland 268, 228, 704.
In the Thursday Ladies league Connie Mckenley 178, 505, Barb Merton 191, Liz Burgio 185, Cheryl Neist 191, Christine Schultz 174, 509, Barbara Durbak 208, 558, Francine Kaiser 182, 194, 191, 567, Joan Lake 206, Debbie Durland 199, 254, 630, Mary Lee Williams 215, 179, 546, Kim Peck 195, Mardette Wilcox 173, 512, Lisa Muller 186, Clorisa Hopkins 204.
In the Saturday Morning Youth leagues, in the Jr./Mjrs. division Jared Friedman 155, Cory Ciliberto 115, 157, Jason Moss 195, 187, Bryden Fraser 113, Shivani Patel 163, Pedro Agapito III a 205, 214, 279, 698, Nick Price 182, 253, Eddie Walsh 220, 196, 239, 655, Matthew Edwards 155, Megan Gerow 210, Kishan Patel 167, 183. In the Preps division, Michael Hope 121, Ben Drillings 90, 89, 112, Anthony Pagani 85, 96, Cody Burns 102, 125, Mikayla DeGraw 123, 145, Nicole Scuderi 100, 93, Sarah Rustic 108, 162, Nathaniel Edwards 123, Rup Patel 137, Tayl'r Porter 108, 98, 97, RachelDrillings 50, Jonathan Wilhelm 122, 155. In the Pee Wees division, Erin Brawley 70, Jenna Merton 86, Tommy Merton 101, Amelia Edwards 85, Kaylen Blackford 58, Jenna Henricks 77, Renee Schreiber 93.

Fox Bowling Center

Recent highlights scores in the Tuesday Ladies Nite Out Club included a 245, 217, 205, 657 by Natasha Tuttle.
In the Wednesday Men's Independent league Mike Bowker 606, Al Bullis Sr. 224, Andrew Bullis 226, 233, 669, Cody Conway 232, 225, 639, Jim Dibble 256, Art Gately 244, 655, Bill Gleim 226, 611, Jeremy Gulley 233, 647, John Gurnick 247, 626, Mark Hawley 620, Jack Hazen 225, 246, 649, Rob Johnson 257, 685, Ryan Kille 246, 231, 679, Jerry Kulakosky 233, 634, Donnie Marino 642, Neil Mosher 625, Cory Newman 230, Scott Ostrander 286, 650, Sam Rowe 227, Jonathon Wayne 229, 238, 621, Zuke Wormuth 226, 624, Ken Wormuth 227, Lee Wormuth 608, Jay Wormuth 601, Tony Wright 238, 634.
In the Thursday Men's Deposit National league Al Bullis Jr. 226, 230, 657, Al Bullis Sr. 621, Craig Conklin 247, 233, 647, Dale Conklin 238, 629, Howard Couse Sr. 225, 605, Jeff Curtis 232, 237, 669, Carl Davis 247, 642, Norm Ellis Jr. 237, 249, 668, John Fish 235, Bill Gifford 225, 623, Bill Gleim 650, Paul Ignatovich 237, 289, 740, Robert Johnson 247, 268, 269, 784, Gino Jones 279, 680, Harold Morgan 254, 646, Neil Mosher 236, 620, Jim Valentine 227, 687, Dan Wormuth 237, 632.
In the Friday Mixed Couples league Andy Bullis 245, 650, Anne Couse 198, 211, 587, Howey Couse 257, 236, 231, 724, Carl Davis 626, Crystal Ellis 226, 511, Norman E. Ellis 255, 623, Norman C. Ellis 246, Sarah Geer 233, Bill Gleim 233, 226, 657, Julie Martin 182, 222, 553, Dana McGraw 182, Mark McGraw 236, 226, 632, Jen Smith 181, 181, 527, Vicki Tiffany 180, Sandy Winans 183, 213, 525, Dan Wormuth 237, 635, Jay Wormuth 243, 610, Michelle Wormuth 190.
In the Sunday Afternoon Mixed Fun league Marty Haeussler 246, 648, Dave Mills 226, 668, Savanna Mills (youth scores) 156, 136, 412, Fred Shakelton 256, 623, Ed Townsend 228, Shirley Townsend 503.
In the Saturday Morning Youth leagues, Junior division Caitlin Slatcher 169, Bantam Girls division Sara Hanstine 122, Boys Bantam division Ryan Slatcher 199.

This column is written by Ed Townsend, a public relations consultant to the amateur and professional sport of bowling and to several bowling writers associations. If you have a topic that would make good reading, or have league and tournament scores and information, Ed can be reached by phone at 845-439-8177, vie e-mail at edwardctownsend@hotmail.com and by fax at 845-230-8674. For a more expanded version of the bowling column, please visit our Web Page at http://bght.blogspot.com

O’Neill Wins First Major Title In

67th Lumber Liquidators U.S. Open

Bill O’Neill of Southampton, Pa., who earned a “can’t miss” tag after his 2005-06 Professional Bowlers Association Rookie of the Year season, cruised past defending champion Mike Scroggins of Amarillo, Texas, 267-207 last Sunday afternoon to win his first major title in the 67th Lumber Liquidators U.S. Open at Woodland Bowl, at Indianapolis, Ind.

O’Neill, who won his first Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour title earlier in the season in Detroit, had a spare in the first frame, failed to convert the 2-10 split in the second, and then threw 10 strikes in a row to race away to victory. Along with his title, he earned $60,000 and a three-year PBA Tour exemption.

“This title means everything to me. I can’t begin to explain it,” he said. “It’s the most difficult title on tour to win. To have my name up there will the guys who have won it is amazing.

“I can’t believe I bowled a game like that on this lane condition,” the 28-year-old O’Neill said. “I found a little hold area and that’s all I needed. It was just a matter of bearing down and making good shots.

“It was the most relaxed I’ve ever been on TV,” he continued. “I don’t know why, but from the time I got up this morning and came into the center, everything felt great. Even after throwing that split in the second frame, I knew I was going to throw the ball great.

“Scroggins has beaten me, like, the last 34 times I’ve bowled him, so it was nice to get some payback.”

Scroggins never found a solid line to the pocket, failing to put two strikes together until the 10th frame. But it was a pocket 7-10 split in the eighth frame that clinched the win for O’Neill.

“At start of the match, my thumb shrunk just a bit and I was afraid to add a piece of tape because I didn’t want to hang up in the ball,” Scroggins said. “I was losing it just enough, so when I put the tape in the ball in the seventh frame, I got back to the pocket.

“But Bill bowled well. All of the strikes looked the same, so you know he was throwing the ball well,” Scroggins added. “It’s hard to beat 267 on an easy condition, let alone the U.S. Open oil pattern.”

With his victory, O’Neill also jumped into the thick of the PBA Player of the Year race with only four tournaments remaining in the season.

“I picked up a couple of points on Walter Ray (Williams Jr.), but you know he’ll make a couple of more TV shows before the season is over,” O’Neill said. “I’ll just have to try to win another one.”

O’Neill earned his berth in the title match by defeating Tommy Jones of Simpsonville, S.C., 203-152, after Jones romped past Jason Couch of Clermont, Fla., 245-192, in the opening match. In the first game, Jones threw seven strikes in the first eight frames to win easily, but when the oil began to move, he got lost against O’Neill, leaving and failing to convert four splits.

The Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour’s next event is the Etonic Don Johnson Eliminator which gets underway with preliminary qualifying rounds Monday at Sequoia Pro Bowl in Columbus, Ohio.

67TH LUMBER LIQUIDATORS U.S. OPEN
Woodland Bowl, Indianapolis, Sunday, Feb. 28

FINAL STANDINGS
1, Bill O’Neill, Southampton, Pa., $60,000.
2, Mike Scroggins, Amarillo, Texas, $30,000.
3, Tommy Jones, Simpsonville, S.C., $20,000.
4, Jason Couch, Clermont, Fla., $15,000.

STEPLADDER RESULTS
Match One – Jones def. Couch ($15,000), 245-192.
Semifinal Match – O’Neill def. Jones ($20,000), 203-152.
Championship – O’Neill ($60,000) def. Scroggins ($30,000), 267-207.