Six local bowlers inducted into Hall of Fame
The Greater Greencastle USBC Association recently inducted six new bowlers into the local Bowlers Hall of Fame. Jean Bartley, R. "Shorty" Middleton, Marie Chestnut, Curt Brewster, John Sutton and rob Alex were all inducted into the Hall at the Annual Spring Awards Banquet.
Tony Peterson, third Vice-President of the Indiana State USBC BA presented each of the inductees with a certificate of congratulations from the National Governing Body of USBC.
Jean has been bowling for 40+ years. She began bowling with her husband, Marlin, when he was in the service. When the came to Greencastle, she began bowling on the Monday night league and subbing on other leagues when she was asked. She has participated in the local City Tournament each year and has bowled in over 25 State tournaments. She and Marlin also bowled on the Sunday Mixed League.
R. "Shorter" was induced for meritorious service. She has devoted many Saturdays of the last eight years at the center overseeing the youth program. Until last year when USBC told each Association that they must create a Youth Committee, she and her husband Frank were two of the main adults at the center on Saturdays. Her workload was lightened when the committee was appointed. Though her heart is still with the kids she opted not to continue being a committee member this past year.
Marie began bowling many years ago when Joe Damasco owned the center and it was located where the VFW building is now. She and her second husband shared a wonderfully large family that included thirteen children; it was a real treat to get a night out every week and go bowling. She enjoys the many friendships that she has formed over the many years she has bowled.
John (Big John as most bowlers called him) bowled because he loved the game and the friendships he made. He participated in many State Tournaments and claims he has a lot of stories he could tell about all those trips all over the state.
Rob was inducted for Distinguished Service and Superior Performance. Rob has bowled two perfect 300 games in competition and holds a Professional Bowlers membership card. Rob first worked with the youth bowlers when his father and mother owned Varsity Lanes. When Rob and his wife, Janelle, purchased Varsity Lanes, they put their stamp on the center by renaming it Alex Alleys. Rob returned to working with the youth as soon and he and Janelle purchased the center in Feb. of 2004. That fall he started the Putnam County High School Bowling program.
He formed the conference so that all county schools could perform. After receiving his Hall of Fame plaque, Rob expressed his appreciation.
"I would give up every award I have as long as I get to work with those kids."
Check out the Hall of Fame photo gallery at