By By Mike Carson/The Meridian Star
Thanksgiving is a time for each of us to sit back and count our blessings. So let's begin this week's column by looking at a few things the bowlers in our area have to be thankful for:
Our teammates, who encourage us when we do well and support us in those times when you can't hit the broad side of a barn… Our friends and family, who share our good times and wish us well the next time out… That last pin to fall that gives your team a victory… The strike you shouldn't have gotten, but did… The best game you ever bowled… The worst game you ever bowled, because at least you are able to participate when so many others can't… The feeling of camaraderie you feel with those who share the love of the game with you… The new friends you meet… The old friends you have made over the years… And finally, a lifetime of memories or good times, good friends, and the knowledge that you have done your best. From all of us to all of you, our customers, thank you for another wonderful year of memories.
The Mississippi State Mixed Tournament has concluded. Many of our local bowlers took part in the tournament this year. M.A. Copeland, Dixie Bowl manager and a member of the Mississippi Bowling Council would like to thank all area bowlers who participated and helped make the tournament a success. Once again, the youth bowlers across the state will benefit from the scholarships awarded through this tournament.
In local action, for the first time in three weeks we have no 300 games to report. The high game of the week to "TenPin" Johnnie Blackmon, who reached the 289 mark not once, but twice in the last week. Blackmon was also able to add to his 700 total with a 706. Mike Carson held down the high series with a 736 set in the Wednesday Night Mixed league.
Other big scorers this week included Mike Cothern (270/702), Tommy Watson (275), Johnny Tinsley (269), and Thomas Clay(268). Other bowlers topping the 700 mark included Chuck Gray, M.A. Copeland, Curtis Rutledge, Barry Woods, Robert Trout, Leon Fike, and Rodney Bounds.
Sheila Dearman took high game honors for the ladies with a nice 254 effort. Sue Kirkpatrick fired off a career high 244 and Nita Fike chipped in with a 226 game. Marlene Stokes was close behind with a 224 and Sharon McDonald reeled off a nice 223 game. Congratulations also go out to Ann Whitehead who picked up her first career 200 game with a 223.
Dixie Bowl will be open at 4 p.m. Thanksgiving Day. So, after the turkey and dressing are downed, come in and work off that "stuffed" feeling with a few games. Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Mike Carson writes a weekly bowling column for The Meridian Star.