An Evening of Flippers and Fun: Speakeasy at Sparks

A Night to Remember

Speakeasy at Sparks, held on June 14, 2024, was an electrifying event with 23 eager players battling it out over 14 intense head-to-head games. With a start time of 7:30 PM and a total duration of three and a half hours, this pinball tournament was packed with excitement from start to finish. The top 8 competitors advanced to the finals, where the competition was fiercer than ever.

Sparks Pinball Museum | Arcade & Bar: The Perfect Venue

Located at 33151 23 Mile Rd, Chesterfield, MI, the Sparks Pinball Museum | Arcade & Bar provided a stellar backdrop for the tournament. Known for its extensive collection of pinball machines, most of which cost just a dollar per play, the venue also features other arcade games. Contrary to my initial fears of a grimy arcade, Sparks turned out to be a clean and welcoming spot, perfect for pinball enthusiasts. Check out their website for more info: Sparks Pinball.

Pinball Highlights: A Personal Touch

I must say it was a delight to see my own game featured prominently in the tournament. The Bride of Pinbot by Williams, released in February 1991, was a crowd favorite with seven games played. Meanwhile, the Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern, released in March 2023, had players hooked for an average of 16 minutes per game, the longest duration of any machine at the event. Seems like my charm isn’t lost on the pinball crowd!

Star Machines on Display

The tournament boasted an impressive lineup of 45 pinball machines. Here are a few standouts:

  • Creature from the Black Lagoon (Bally, December 1992): Designed by John Trudeau with artwork by Kevin O’Connor, this game brings the classic horror movie to life with its engaging features and immersive playfield.
  • Funhouse (Williams, November 1990): This game, crafted by Pat Lawlor with artwork by Python Anghelo, features the memorable Rudy, a talking puppet head that adds a unique twist to the gameplay.
  • Hurricane (Williams, August 1991): Designed by Barry Oursler and Python Anghelo, Hurricane combines carnival themes with fast-paced action, making it a hit among players.
  • Jack•Bot (Williams, January 1995): A sequel to my own game, this pin, designed by Barry Oursler and Bill Pfutzenreuter, offers thrilling casino-themed play.
  • Monster Bash (Williams, July 1998): A true masterpiece by George Gomez, this game brings together iconic Universal Monsters for an unforgettable pinball experience.
  • Elvira and the Party Monsters (Bally, January 1989): Designed by Dennis Nordman with art by Greg Freres, this game captures the campy fun of Elvira’s spooky soirées.
  • The Addams Family Gold (Bally, January 1994): Another Pat Lawlor creation, this limited edition of the popular Addams Family pinball game adds extra charm and features.
  • World Cup Soccer (Bally, February 1994): John Popadiuk’s design celebrates the 1994 FIFA World Cup with vibrant gameplay and engaging features.
  • Paragon (Bally, June 1979): A classic by Paul Faris, this game is renowned for its challenging gameplay and striking artwork.

The Champions

Out of 23 formidable players, only the best rose to the top. Here’s a breakdown of the winners:

  1. Jeff Catenacci from Roseville clinched first place with 8 wins. With an IFPA rank of 898 and 261 events under his belt, Jeff’s experience clearly paid off.
  2. Brandon Blake secured second place with 6 wins. Ranked 2021 in the IFPA, Brandon has competed in 51 events.
  3. Rick Zoellner from Michigan earned third place with 6 wins. Rick’s IFPA rank is 6484, having participated in 81 events.
  4. Marco Vendetti took fourth place with 6 wins. Marco, ranked 1805 in the IFPA, has a wealth of experience from 248 events.
  5. Steve Misze finished fifth with 7 wins, impressively in his first IFPA event.
  6. Scott Styles from New Baltimore claimed sixth place with 6 wins. Ranked 1851 in the IFPA, Scott has competed in 209 events.
  7. Mike Stewart Jr came in seventh with 6 wins. Mike is ranked 984 in the IFPA and has an extensive history with 605 events.
  8. Russ Goodrich rounded out the top eight with 8 wins. Russ is relatively new to the scene, with an IFPA rank of 25948 from just 2 events.

IFPA Michigan Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Dominic Labella Bay City 488
2 Matthew Stacks Grand Rapids 438.15
3 Sterling Mitoska Brooklyn 389.18
4 Ethan Magnum 379.22
5 Rodney Minch Grand Rapids 330.22
6 Jason Humphrey Jackson 238.51
7 Philip Salminen Midland 235.31
8 Daniel Overbeek Grand Rapids 215.77
9 Alex Harmon Spring Lake 204.03
10 Andy Bagwell Elgin 179.61

Wrapping Up the Fun

A huge shoutout to Joe Wade for organizing such a fantastic event and to the Sparks Pinball Museum | Arcade & Bar for hosting us in their excellent venue. Congratulations to Jeff Catenacci on his well-deserved victory! And a warm welcome to newcomers like Steve Misze, who brought fresh energy to the tournament. Stay tuned for more thrilling pinball updates and stories from yours truly, the Bride of Pinbot!

Friday Night Flippin’ Frenzy at District 82

The latest IFPA pinball tournament, the D82 Flippin’ Friday June 14th Qualify, was a smashing success! With a format of four rounds and two games per round, 26 players faced off in a thrilling competition. The action kicked off at 6:00 PM and wrapped up in just under three hours. With a clear sky and a comfortable 74°F, it was the perfect evening for some high-stakes pinball.

The Pinball Paradise: District 82

District 82 Pinball Arcade in De Pere, WI, is an absolute gem. Having made the trip for the second time, I can confidently say this place is worth every mile. The owner, Erik Thoren, runs a tight ship, ensuring that each machine is in top-notch condition. The atmosphere is popping, and it’s clear why so many players flock here for tournaments. If you haven’t visited yet, put it on your pinball bucket list!

Rocking the Rush: Round 2 Highlights

Round 2 saw a standout match on the Rush (Pro) by Stern, a game that echoes the legendary Canadian rock band’s themes of time travel and musical prowess. Nathan Zalewski dominated the game, maneuvering through the intricate ramps and hitting the multiball with perfect precision. Jordan Cappaert, despite a valiant effort, couldn’t match Nathan’s rhythm, while Tom Graf and Mike Hanson brought up the rear in this musical pinball showdown. The game’s complex layout and dynamic features truly tested the players’ skills and brought out some spectacular pinball wizardry.

Pinball Machines Spotlight: The Fantastic Five

  • The Getaway: High Speed II – Released by Williams in February 1992, this machine is a high-octane chase with flashing lights and thrilling speeds. The Supercharger feature, a loop that accelerates the ball, adds an exhilarating twist to the gameplay.
  • Monopoly – Stern’s September 2001 release captures the essence of the classic board game. The rotating flipper in the center and the ability to build houses and hotels bring a unique strategy element to the table.
  • Iron Man (Vault) – From January 2014, this Stern release is a test of reflexes with its fast-paced playfield. The Whiplash and War Machine magnets provide unexpected challenges, keeping players on their toes.
  • Lectronamo – A vintage Stern Electronics machine from January 1978, Lectronamo features an electric theme with vibrant artwork. Its classic design and straightforward gameplay are a nostalgic trip for pinball purists.
  • Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast – Released in April 2018, this Stern game is a visual and auditory treat. The game’s intricate playfield and multiple modes based on the band’s songs make it a favorite among metalheads and pinball enthusiasts alike.

Celebrating the Champions

Congratulations to the top players of the D82 Flippin’ Friday tournament! Tom Graf, ranked 113th with a staggering 578 IFPA events under his belt, claimed the top spot. Not only did he win the tournament, but he also holds the #1 spot in Wisconsin’s pinball rankings with 595.54 Wppr points. Nathan Zalewski, with 94 events, secured second place, showcasing his growing prowess. Mike Carlson from Sobieski, WI, finished third in just his tenth event, while Eddie Smith rounded out the top four with an impressive 187 events. These players demonstrated exceptional skill and determination, making the tournament a thrilling experience for all.

Wisconsin’s Pinball Aces

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Tom Graf Appleton 595.54
2 Erik Thoren De Pere 476.35
3 Danny Bronny Beverly Shores 435.69
4 Steven Bowden Palatine 434.31
5 Kassidy Milanowski Appleton 431.38
6 Matt McCarty Neenah 377.29
7 Eric Strangeway Oshkosh 373.46
8 Jason Zahler 372.99
9 Erik Rentmeester Green Bay 323.81
10 Mike Weyenberg Manitowoc 322.81

Wrapping It Up

A huge shoutout to Erik Thoren for organizing such a fantastic event at the stellar District 82 Pinball Arcade. Welcome to the new faces like Mike Hanson, who joined the ranks of the pinball community. We look forward to seeing more from you in future tournaments. As always, don’t miss out on the next round of pinball excitement. Stay tuned and keep flipping!

Galactic Showdown at the Pinball Gals Tournament Finals!

June 14, 2024, marked a night of electrifying competition at the Pinball Gallery as four formidable players battled it out in the Finals for the Pinball Gals Tournament. The air was charged with anticipation as the event kicked off at 7:00 PM. With three intense rounds and a game per round, the match play format ensured every flip counted. Hosted by the ever-reliable Bill Disney, this tournament was set against the backdrop of a clear sky and a pleasant 68°F, creating the perfect atmosphere for some pinball magic.

Stepping into the Pinball Gallery

Located in Malvern, PA, the Pinball Gallery is a treasure trove for pinball enthusiasts. Located at 81 Lancaster Ave #20, this arcade is a sanctuary of both nostalgia and modern pinball excellence. Bill Disney, the mastermind behind this haven, has curated an impeccable mix of vintage and contemporary pinball machines, alongside classic video games that transport players back in time. The vibrant and welcoming atmosphere makes it a favorite spot for pinball lovers, offering a unique blend of old-school charm and cutting-edge gameplay.

Epic Battle on Total Nuclear Annihilation

Round 2 saw an unforgettable match on Total Nuclear Annihilation by Spooky Pinball. The tension was palpable as players faced the daunting task of preventing a nuclear meltdown. Tessa Morton emerged victorious, skillfully navigating the reactor modes and multi-balls to rack up a staggering score. Her triumph mirrored the intense, high-stakes environment of the game, where precision and strategic play were key to averting disaster and securing victory.

Pinball Machines That Made Waves

The tournament featured an impressive lineup of 68 pinball machines. Here are a few standouts:

Hollywood Heat by Gottlieb (June 1986): This game boasts a sizzling Miami Vice-inspired theme, complete with neon lights and a beachside soundtrack. The playfield features a unique center ramp that adds a layer of challenge and excitement.

Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern (January 2016): Step into Gotham City with this machine, featuring stunning artwork and voiceovers from the original TV series. The rotating Batmobile and dynamic playfield toys bring the Caped Crusader’s adventures to life.

Centaur II by Bally (June 1983): Known for its striking black-and-white art and eerie sound effects, Centaur II challenges players with its intricate shot layout and multi-ball capabilities, making it a favorite for those who love a tough game.

Jack•Bot by Williams (January 1995): A futuristic casino-themed pin, Jack•Bot offers a mix of humor and challenge, with a variety of modes that require both skill and luck to master.

The Addams Family by Bally (January 1992): One of the most beloved machines, this game captures the quirky essence of the Addams Family with interactive playfield toys like the Thing hand and the electric chair, along with memorable quotes from the movie.

Celebrating the Champions

A huge congratulations to the top players of the Pinball Gals Tournament!

  • 1st Place – Terri Morton from Pennsylvania (IFPA rank 2267, Total IFPA Events 140): Terri showcased remarkable consistency and skill, earning her the champion title.
  • 2nd Place – Tessa Morton (IFPA rank 1191, Total IFPA Events 116): Tessa’s stellar performance in Round 2 was a highlight, adding a thrilling edge to the competition.
  • 3rd Place – Wendy Dunn (IFPA rank 5195, Total IFPA Events 82): Wendy’s tenacity and strategic play were evident throughout the tournament, securing her a well-deserved spot on the podium.
  • 4th Place – Kathy Bobeck (IFPA rank 3647, Total IFPA Events 96): Kathy’s impressive gameplay and sportsmanship shone brightly, making her a standout participant.

IFPA Pennsylvania Pinball Top 10 Standings:

Rank Player Name City Wppr Points
1 Aleksander Kaczmarczyk Pittsburgh 251.45
2 Cryss Stephens 243.94
3 Jared Schmidt Pittsburgh 206.26
4 Dave Lancaster Pittsburgh 167.98
5 Lewis Bevans Pittsburgh 164.99
6 Gary Hartz Pittsburgh 143.84
7 John Delzoppo Cleveland 143.6
8 David Riel Pittsburgh 139
9 Daniel Gilbert Trappe 103.67
10 Mahesh Murthy Pittsburgh 98.87

A Round of Applause

A heartfelt thank you to Bill Disney and the Pinball Gallery for hosting such an incredible event. The Pinball Gals Tournament Finals was a resounding success, showcasing the skill and passion of the competitors. Congratulations once again to our overall champion, Terri Morton, and all the participants who made this tournament unforgettable. Stay tuned for more pinball updates and thrilling stories from the world of pinball!