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It might be the 10th or it might be the 11th.
At any rate it is being promoted as the 10th and no matter how many years it has been, the fact that over $20,000 in scholarships has been generated for area youth.
It is the 10th annual James-Oellerich Bowling Tournament and it is taking its usual spot as the highlight of November 26, the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The tourney is an eight pin tap for four person teams, at Midway Lanes. There will be three shifts--1 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m.
If things go as they have in the past all shifts will be filled. To reserve your spot call Midway Lanes at 987-2668.
The event is held to honor the memory of three area men who were instrumental in youth and adult sports activities in the Iowa County.
Herman Oellerich died 21 years ago. He farmed near Jonesdale and raised his family there. He was very active in 4-H softball and also could be counted on to keep the Jonesdale fastpitch leagues for men and women going. He was often found with his pillow protector behind the plate umpiring hotly contested softball games.
Art James died six years ago. He was often found working the games with Herman when he wasn't coaching one of the many teams he was involved with. Art kept 4-H softball going throughout his lifetime and also put many quality womens' fastpitch teams on the field throughout southwest Wisconsin.
Art also organized the Mineral Point Home Talent Baseball Team and managed it while it was an active franchise. He also umpired in the Home Talent League.
Art also farmed near Jonesdale and raised his family there.
Al James died in a traffic accident 16 years ago. He was Art's son and was often found helping Art and Herman any way he could. He was also a baseball and softball player who was known for his quality bat.
Al lived in Mineral Point and raised his family there.
Thanking those three men for their many years of service brought about first a softball tournament in Jonesdale and later the bowling tournament. The softball field is now mostly dormant but the bowling tournament continues to flourish every year.
The tournament was organized by the James and Oellerich families with much guidance from Brian James, Jay and Steve Oellerich. They recruited several volunteers over the years including Bill Fischer, Merlin (Butch) Norton, Paul (Wally) Schwartz, James "Jake" Fitzsimmons, Mike Ryan, Ken Von Rueden and Bill Aurit.
There are others, too who have worked behind the scene to make the tournament the success it has been.
This year there will be meat paddles, 50/50 raffles and door prizes.
Support of the tournament has grown the number of $500.00 scholarships from two to five. The scholarships go to students in Iowa County.
Former owner of Midway Lanes Greg Roalf said, "I have had the privilege of hosting this giving tournament for the past eight years. It is a great way to give to the youth of our community. The support has always been great and I would expect the 10th anniversary tournament to be bigger than ever. As always, thanks for the support."