Chicago Sunday Best: A Night of Lights, Flips, and Legendary Plays!

On a clear evening with the temperature reading a comfortable 83°F, the pinball enthusiasts of Chicago had their game faces on. It was the Season 5 #2 of the Chicago Sunday Best Pinball League, taking place at the much-acclaimed Logan Arcade. Organized by none other than Mike Pantoliano, the event saw 40 players, some local favorites and others rising stars, all vying for the title of the evening’s pinball champion.

White Water Rages!

There’s always that one game in a tournament that etches itself into the annals of pinball history, and this evening was no exception. On the classic “White Water” by Williams, the balls rolled, jumped, and danced for an astonishing 1 hour, 21 minutes. Bob Twichell from Oaklawn, IL, emerged victorious from this marathon, but every participant, including William Cooper, Kevin Kolodziej, and Lucas Welsh, gave spectators a game to remember.

The Pantheon of Pinball Champions

The air was thick with competition, and when the flippers stopped, and the scores tallied, it was Mike Pantoliano, the organizer himself, who stood tallest. Following him were Andrew Wilkening, Bob Twichell, and Madeleine Benz, who showcased skills, strategies, and a touch of pinball magic to secure their spots.

Machines of Glory

From Stern’s recent “James Bond 007 (Premium)” to the beloved “Theatre of Magic” by Bally, Logan Arcade was a dazzling array of pinball machines, each with its legacy and lure. Personal favorites? The thrilling “Game of Thrones (Premium)” and the ever-spooky “Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium).” The beeps, buzzes, and illuminations from these machines were like a siren call, drawing both players and spectators into their grasp.

Logan Arcade: The Mecca of Pinball in Chicago

Ah, Logan Arcade. With its fantastic selection of pinball machines and competitive pricing, it’s no wonder it’s a favorite amongst enthusiasts. As one visitor aptly put, “Amazing selection of pinball, good prices. Will definitely be back next time I’m in Chicago.” If you’re a pinball aficionado or a newbie looking to dive into this world, Logan Arcade’s doors are always open.

The Best of Illinois

The IFPA Illinois Top 10 Standings were as follows:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Andy BagwellElgin352.67
2Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village222.12
3John Miller MOSt. Louis184.42
4Chuck Sanderson169.23
5Ryan McQuaid163.06
6Steven BowdenPalatine160.65
7Alex LeckyChicago151.11
8Stephen ChappellFerguson143.42
9Bob TwichellOaklawn135.69
10Mike PantolianoSeattle130.1

With the evening drawing to a close, the lights dimming, and the echoes of the pinballs fading away, one thing remained evident: Chicago’s pinball scene is alive, thriving, and filled with talent. Here’s to more flippin’ fun in the future! Stay tuned for more updates from the dazzling realm of pinball!

Seattle’s Pinball Showdown: An Epic Journey through Time and Skill

Overcast skies at a comfortable 67°F painted the perfect backdrop on September 3, 2023, for an intense pinball showdown at The Ice Box. Located at the heart of Seattle, this venue reverberated with enthusiasm and competitive fervor, thanks to the Ice Box Mixed Matchplay tournament organized by the spirited Germain Mariolle.

An Epic Battle with the Stars (Star Gazer, to be precise!)

The true magic of pinball is when a game transcends time. This was brilliantly evident during the longest match of the tournament on “Star Gazer” by Stern, a machine that has enthralled players since 1980. The game spanned an astonishing 97 minutes! Phillip Saltzman secured the top spot with Dave Stewart, Richie Terry, and Lonnie Langford right on his heels. Such tenacity, especially on a vintage machine, is a testament to the players’ dedication and skill.

Celebrating the Titans of Pinball

When the flippers finally rested, Lonnie Langford emerged as the undisputed champion. Following him were Ashley Weaver, Jarrett Gaddy, and Trevor McDonald, who showcased exemplary gameplay. A special mention goes out to Emily Reilhan, who traveled all the way from Canada to make her mark on the top 10, embodying the international spirit of pinball.

A Blast from the Past: The Machines

The Ice Box was an eclectic mix of vintage classics and modern marvels. Machines like “Centaur” and “Dolly Parton” transported players back to the 80s, while “Jurassic Park (Pro)” offered a more recent thrill. The impeccable condition of these machines and their rotation ensured players experienced the best of both worlds.

The Icy Charm of The Ice Box

The Ice Box isn’t just another arcade. It’s a piece of Seattle’s rich history, offering a delightful fusion of the past and present. From its unique ice locker architecture to the ever-evolving game selection (hello, Killer Queen machines!), it’s a haven for pinball enthusiasts. And who could resist a BBQ offering delicious treats for patrons?

The bar’s eclectic selection of beverages, paired with an array of local arts and crafts, adds to its charm. The Ice Box isn’t just about games; it’s about community. Regular tournaments, coupled with live music, make it a hub of entertainment.

The Top Players in Washington

The IFPA Washington Top 10 Standings after the epic showdown were:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Lonnie LangfordSeattle455.38
2Germain MariolleRedmond422.98
3David ChernicoffSeattle411.82
4Jarrett GaddySeattle407.17
5Richie TerrySeattle375.62
6Sean IrbySeattle355.73
7Dave StewartCarnation344.53
8Neal JoslynBremerton339.8
9Jaran JonesSeattle291.28
10Conrad RustadBremerton284.15

This table, while showcasing the top pinball talent of Washington, is a promise that the pinball scene in Seattle and surrounding regions will remain vibrant for years to come.

The flippers might have rested for now, but the spirit of the game continues to echo. Keep those pinball dreams alive and stay tuned for more updates from the thrilling world of pinball!