2008 was such a tremendous success, and starting 2009 by exceeding last years opening Tournament numbers has to be a good omen. Add to that, 23 New Members at Tower Lanes Saturday, and we're getting the year off on the right foot. Doubles is the only format where a member can cash more than once, and Four Veteran Tour members took BIG advantage of the "Multi-Cash" opportunity. 'Loading-up' on the cash list were, John Nissen, Mitch Vernon, Paul Marcello and Rich Eaton, each cashing 3 to 5 times each. The scores were fantastic all day, and we unfortunately had some excellent scores miss the 'cash list'. The Top 3 finishers were separated by ONLY 8 pins, and I heard from a few that they missed 'the spare' that left them a little short.

Our first 2009 Title goes to Paul Marcello & Rich Eaton. Paul finally broke through for his first title at the Cascade EQC last month, so this continues his 'hot streak', now winning #2. Rich hadn't won since October 2007, but this win is the Magic #5, which earns him the special Multi-Championships shirt. Both Rich and Paul bowl in 3 Leagues during the week. Paul at Majestic, Glacier and Acme Bowls in the North, and Rich at Pacific and Bowlero in the South. Paul used his winnings last month to buy an engagement ring for Jessica. This time he plans on saving the proceeds for their April wedding. Rich is planning on taking the Family out with his winnings. Corey Gardner, at Secoma, drilled Rich's weapon of choice, a Hammer "3-D Offset". Paul used a "Virtual Gravity Shift", from Jason at Tech City Bowl. Both shot very well, each cracking 500 for the two games. CONGRATULATIONS Rich & Paul!!

In 2nd place, Willie Ragin & Ken Seaton came SO CLOSE, missing by only 5 pins. Both of them also shooting over 500 (1073), for a payday worth $583.00. This finish follows up a 3rd place in Ken's last Tournament. In 3rd place, ONLY 3 PINS back, were two more 'Hot' bowlers, Randy Laed & Pearl Sedeno. Their 1070 was worth $321.00.

NEXT WEEK: HiLine Lanes (Burien) 12:00 & 2:30 & 5:00