Fesh wins Westmoreland County Bowling Olympics

Technically, Tim Fesh has a slight mental disability, but it hasn't stopped him from doing the things he enjoys, including bowling.

Fesh, a native of Scottdale and graduate of Southmoreland High School, bowls with Caring Ones, a non-profit group which organizes social activities for the physically and mentally disabled. According to the group's president, Betty Rutter, Fesh recently garnered two gold medals and placed highly at a state competition.

"He went to the Westmoreland County Bowling Olympics, and he got a gold medal there. Then I entered him into the Eastern Regional Olympics, and he got a gold medal there," Rutter said.

Fesh also placed fourth at the state bowling Olympics and has an average of 130. Rutter said he has collected quite a bit of hardware this year.

"He's won trophies, and he's won a plaque in recognition of his ability," she said.

Rutter said Fesh is one of 17 current members of Caring Ones, which opened in October. He's also one of the members Rutter has known the longest.

"Tim is a fine young man," she said. "I was head cook in the school cafeteria at Southmoreland. I've known Tim from the time he was in first grade, and I know he really tries his best."

Rutter said that kind of effort is typical of Caring Ones' members, most of whom have only mild disabilities.

"When they do something, they're putting all their effort into what they're doing," she said. "They're not doing it because it comes easy. They're doing it because they want to do it and because they're so proud that they can do it."

Rutter explained that Caring Ones currently encompasses members ranging in age from 14 to 53, and the schedule of events includes something for just about everyone.

"Last night, we had a lawn party. All year from September through the end of May, we bowl every Saturday," she said, adding that the organization also hosts dances and other parties for the members.

Rutter said Fesh has been bowling for "10 or 12 years" at Huntingdon Lanes, which is the site of Caring Ones' bowling events.

"Starting in September, we'll be back up there again," Rutter said, noting that Fesh will not only take part in the bowling, he will also help the others.

"We're called Caring Ones, and Tim really demonstrates caring to everyone," Rutter said, adding that if someone needs a little help, "Tim's right their to do it."

Rutter is quick to add that Fesh is not the only noteworthy person among Caring Ones' members.

"We can't name them all," she said. "Since Tim was kind of outstanding this year, we felt he ought to be recognized."

Rutter said Caring Ones, which meets at the Mount Pleasant Church of God on the third Thursday of each month, is always looking for new members.

"It's something that really grows on you," she said. "These kids are first in my heart."