Mike Chontos of Monongahela took top honors in the fifth annual Michael "Mickey" Michalojko Tournament held at Colonial Lanes in nearby New Castle.

The tournament attracted 125 entries from the area, including a few from Butler County. Those bowlers competed for a first prize of over $1,600. Larry Verble of Greenville, Danny Guerrieri of Youngstown, and Tom Lovely of Pittsburgh rounded out the top four.

Only 11 pins separated the four bowlers after the first game of the final four two-game match.

Pizza Joe's was the main sponsor of the event, with proceeds of the tournament going toward a scholarship fund in Mickey Michalojko's name. Two thousand dollars in scholarship money was distributed this year to local area junior bowlers, bringing the total awarded through the tournament to over $5,000.

Congratulations to Mike Chontos for his win, and also congratulations to Bob and Mick Michalojko for putting together another fine event.

Marcellus advances

Brian Marcellus defeated Don Wilson 249-163 to advance on in the radio tournament roll-off at Bon Aire Bowl. Marcellus defeated Don Clark and Bob Eppinger in the first match.

At Shenango Bowl-Away on Sunday, Ron Lehman of Butler captured the top seed in the Shenango division, rolling an 890 four-game series.

Tip of the Week

Are you always seeking a little bit more side-roll on your bowling ball? If you are, try this tip. Tuck your pinky under when your put your hand in your bowling ball.

This is not for everyone, though, as some bowlers may find it rather uncomfortable. This will increase the amount of pressure on your middle finger, which should create more lift and roll.

Another way to increase side roll is to spread out your index finger when placing it into the bowling ball.

A no-no

I recently had someone ask me whether or not it is legal to use baby or talcum powder on your bowling shoes. This is a common question.

In sanctioned league play, it is illegal to use any foreign substance, powder included, on your bowling shoes that may alter the approaches. Just because you are sticking doesn't mean everyone else is.

Besides, it is potentially dangerous to use it. You may end up sliding too much, causing you to lose your balance and fall.

Also, should the powder get wet, it actually may make you stick more. If you are having sliding issues, whether you're sticking or sliding too much, try taking a wire brush or a green scratch pad to the sole of your sliding shoe.

Collins wins in Ohio

Chris Collins defeated Walter Ray Williams Jr. 245-201 to win the PBA Pepsi Championships in Akron, Ohio.

The win by Collins denied Williams a chance at tying Earl Anthony for the most career titles. Anthony won 41 PBA events.

Collins defeated Norm Duke to advance to the finals. Williams defeated Steve Jaros. Collins earned $40,000 and a one-year exemption. Williams earned $20,000.

The PBA has the week off before heading to Taylor, Michigan for the 2006 Ace Hardware Championship. ESPN will televise the finals at 12:30 p.m. March 19

County tournament

The Butler County Bowling Association tournament is continuing the next two Sundays at Bon Aire Bowl. Squad times are at 9 a.m. and noon. Bon Aire Bowl will also host another 10-game marathon tournament on March 26. Entry fee is $50, with a $25 scratch option available.

Ron Willison is a bowling columnist for the Butler Eagle.