Area digest 4/23/03

Southeast softball game to benefit U.S. troops

Southeast Missouri State University's softball team will hold Support the Troops Day today when the Otahkians host Eastern Illinois in a 3 p.m. single game.

Fans are encouraged to show their support for the U.S. military by bringing donations -- either money or supplies -- to the Southeast Softball Complex. Drinks and hot dogs will be available for those who donate.

Among recommended items for donation are batteries, sunblock, foot powder, snacks that don't melt, fly swatters, bandanas, Gatorade powder, packages of coffee and notes of appreciation.

The Otahkians are 11-23 overall and a fourth-place 7-6 in the Ohio Valley Conference. The Panthers (9-28, 4-9) are seventh.

Sophomore Kelly Birk leads the Otahkians offensively with a .325 average, which is seventh in the OVC. Senior Brooke Nett is 10th at .312, and she is third in on-base percentage at .421.

McKinney is medalist in women's golf event

Vicki McKinney was the medalist in the Cape Girardeau Country Club Women's Golf Association event. The play of the day was low putts.

Janet White won with Dana Underwood second. Donna VanMatre was the nine-hole winner.

VanCleve, Brown win in Chip-A-Ways opener

Mary VanCleve and Carol Brown won A flight as the Cape Chip-A-Ways opened their season with a two-lady scramble at Jaycees Municipal Golf Course.

Bev Wink and Glendella May tied in B flight. Joann Williams and Carolyn Blechle won play of the day.

-- From staff reports