On October 10, 2023, as a clear sky watched over Florida and the temperature nudged a pleasant 76°F, inside The Pinball Lounge @Oviedo Bowling Center, a different tempest was brewing. At 7:00 PM, flippers flipped, bells chimed, and scores soared as the Pinball Bonanza unfurled.

The Arena and Its Gladiators

Located at 376 E Broadway Street in Oviedo, The Pinball Lounge is no stranger to pinball aficionados. Organized by the ever-passionate Kurt van Zyl, this latest edition saw 19 competitors, each eager to leave an indelible mark on the leaderboard. Over 6 intense rounds, strategies were deployed, rivalries flared, and champions emerged.

Rushing to Glory on Rush (LE)

One cannot talk about this evening without shining a spotlight on Round 6. Stern’s Rush (LE), a modern marvel, became the stage for an epic battle. Garrett Smoke emerged victorious, closely trailed by Dawn Ziatyk, Mike Zink, and the spirited Doug Bernard from Orlando.

Here’s to the Champions!

• 1st: Mike Zink – Proving that experience, with 73 IFPA Events under his belt, indeed counts.
• 2nd: Garrett Smoke – A rising star, with a game as fiery as his surname suggests.
• 3rd: John Osborne – Consistency is key, and John is its master.
• 4th: Dawn Ziatyk – Earning respect with each flick of her flipper, and accounting for a 10-point adjustment.

A Pinball Time Machine

The machines at the Lounge are not just tables; they’re portals to different eras:

• Black Pyramid – A trip to the mysteries of 1984.
• Attack from Mars – Reliving the 1995 alien invasion with every ball.
• Jurassic Park (Premium) – A 2019 adventure with the T-Rex.
• Monster Bash (Remake LE) – Party with monsters, 2018-style.
• Foo Fighters (Premium) – The 2023 rock anthem in pinball form.

The Pinball Lounge: A Realm Beyond the Flippers

It’s not just about the game; it’s about the experience. As one vacationer shared on The Pinball Lounge’s website, their brief detour turned into a two-hour love affair with pinball, sans the food and drinks.

The Titans of Florida Pinball

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Shannon Stafford	Orange Park	329.53
2	Eric Stone	Fort Myers	312.68
3	Sebastian Bobbio		279.04
4	Vince Gelormine	Fort Lauderdale	272.4
5	Dan Coyle	St. Petersburg	194.72
6	Dr. Frank Sposaro	Lakeland	151.96
7	Adam Gray	Temple Terrace	147.87
8	David Miller FL	Tampa	142.44
9	Brayden Derazza	Lake Mary	139.7
10	John Moschella	Winter Springs	127.5

The echoes of clashing steel balls might have subsided for now, but the stories, rivalries, and dreams live on. Here’s looking forward to the next battle under the neon lights! Until then, stay flippin’, Florida!

Florida’s sizzling sun might have been obscured by a few clouds on October 7th, 2023, but inside The Pinball Lounge @Oviedo Bowling Center, the atmosphere was positively electric. As the temperature outside teetered at 85°F, inside, the real heat was generated by 25 pinball wizards, meticulously mastering machines from yesteryears to contemporary classics.

The Pinball Lounge: An Arcade Utopia

Situated on 376 E Broadway Street in Oviedo, The Pinball Lounge is a paradise for aficionados of the silver ball. For visitors dropping by while vacationing in Orlando, it offers an escapade back in time. While they might not have tested the gastronomy, the pinball variety is nothing short of staggering. An essential stop for pinball enthusiasts and the perfect backdrop for the Pre Play Florida 2023 tournament.

Machines that Echoed through Time

Out of the 27 pinball machines present, a few definitely demanded the spotlight:

• Star Wars (Premium) by Stern: An intergalactic adventure from 2017.
• Eight Ball Champ by Bally: A throwback to the 80’s pool halls, released in 1985.
• Monster Bash (Remake LE) by Chicago Gaming: A 2018 reintroduction of the monster-themed marvel.
• Jacks Open by Gottlieb: A vintage pinball piece from 1977.
• Foo Fighters (LE) by Stern: The 2023 latest entry inspired by the rock legends themselves.

An Epic Round to Remember

Round 5 was not just another game—it was a saga. The players faced off on the Spirit of 76 by Gottlieb, a machine from 1975. An astounding 73 minutes saw Patrick Durland clinch the top spot, followed closely by Sebastian Bobbio and Sierra Lieffort, with David Miller finishing fourth.

The Titans of the Tournament

After hours of flippers flipping and balls bouncing, the champions emerged:

1. Sebastian Bobbio: With his IFPA rank at 253 and equal number of IFPA events, Sebastian’s win wasn’t just about numbers—it was a showcase of sheer skill.
2. Shannon Stafford: Ranked 77 globally, Shannon secured the second spot, further solidifying her position atop Florida’s pinball standings.
3. Patrick Durland: The hero of the Spirit of 76 round secured a respectable third spot. Not bad for someone who’s participated in only 66 IFPA events!
4. Garrett Smoke: Rounding out the top four, Garrett demonstrated that while his IFPA rank might be 3263, he’s a force to be reckoned with.

Florida’s Best Flippers

The IFPA Florida Pinball Top 10 standings post-tournament are:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Shannon Stafford	Orange Park	329.54
2	Eric Stone	Fort Myers	306.2
3	Sebastian Bobbio		279.07
4	Vince Gelormine	Fort Lauderdale	271.69
5	Dan Coyle	St. Petersburg	194.72
6	Dr. Frank Sposaro	Lakeland	151.96
7	Adam Gray	Temple Terrace	146.87
8	David Miller FL	Tampa	140.89
9	Brayden Derazza	Lake Mary	139.72
10	John Moschella	Winter Springs	127.51

Until the Next Plunge!

With the echoes of the bells and buzzers now a memory, The Pinball Lounge – Pre Play Florida 2023 came to a close. But rest assured, the pinball cosmos is ever-evolving. So, whether you’re in it for the nostalgia, the strategy, or the sheer thrill of the game—stay tuned for more from the exciting realm of pinball!

Under a clear Florida sky, punctuated by a few drifting clouds and with the temperature tipping at a delightful 75°F, the night was set for the most gripping pinball action Oviedo has ever witnessed.

Setting the Stage

At the heart of this electric atmosphere was The Pinball Lounge in Oviedo Bowling Center, bustling with enthusiasm and the echoing chimes of pinball machines. For those who weren’t clock-watching, it was a whirlwind of approximately 3 hours and 16 minutes of relentless competition, organized by the indomitable Kurt van Zyl.

A Trip to the Jurassic Era

While every game had its moment, the talk of the night was an intense showdown on Stern’s Jurassic Park (Premium) during the first round. Anton Samilian led the charge, but with Dawn Ziatyk not far behind. Florida’s own Patrick Durland and Sheri Lewis also put up a commendable fight. It was as if the players had been transported to a time of dinosaurs, maneuvering through treacherous terrains and outsmarting the T-rex.

Conquering the Night: The Winners

Bravery, strategy, and a little bit of luck crowned our victors:

• John Osborne: Steadiness personified.
• John Moschella from Winter Springs, Florida: The strategic genius of the night.
• Dawn Ziatyk: A force to reckon with.
• David Troum: Consistency in every move.

Machines Through Time

The Lounge showcased a diverse range of machines, each echoing a different era of pinball’s storied history:

• The Flintstones: A yabba-dabba-doo trip to Bedrock.
• Eight Ball Champ: Serving ‘80s nostalgia.
• Rush (LE): A rock concert encapsulated in a machine.
• Star Trek: For every Trekkie’s soul.
• Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast: A metalhead’s dream pinball.

Atmosphere & Ambiance

Every inch of The Pinball Lounge screamed passion for the game. It wasn’t just about the collection of machines but the vibe. Praise should be reserved for Kurt and Ed who have turned this spot into the pinball Mecca for Florida. Their recent unveiling of the Cirqus Voltaire was the icing on the cake!

IFPA Florida Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Shannon Stafford	Orange Park	329.53
2	Eric Stone	Fort Myers	304.72
3	Vince Gelormine	Fort Lauderdale	271.68
4	Sebastian Bobbio	—	265.88
5	Dan Coyle	St. Petersburg	194.73
6	Dr. Frank Sposaro	Lakeland	151.96
7	Adam Gray	Temple Terrace	146.87
8	David Miller FL	Tampa	140.89
9	Brayden Derazza	Lake Mary	139.69
10	John Moschella	Winter Springs	126.81

In a nutshell, Oviedo witnessed a night that will be talked about in the pinball circles for a long time. Until next time, keep those flippers flipping and never let that ball drain!

On the evening of September 26, 2023, amidst a dramatic Florida thunderstorm with temperatures rising to a steamy 84°F, enthusiasts gathered for a showdown of flippers and silver balls at The Pinball Lounge’s “Bonanza 9-26-23”. Located within the heart of Oviedo Bowling Center, The Pinball Lounge provided the perfect shelter from the weather’s theatrics and the ideal stage for some pinball magic.

The Dance of the Silver Ball

The night was orchestrated by Kurt van Zyl and was divided into six tense rounds, with each round featuring one game. Seventeen top-notch players, from various corners of Florida, vied for the title. As the rounds unfolded, strategies were revealed, rivalries intensified, and the leaderboard kept everyone guessing.

Deadpool Dominance

Round 6 witnessed a stellar performance on the “Deadpool (Pro)” by Stern. John Moschella, hailing from Winter Springs, FL, clinched the top spot, showing his prowess despite his rank of 1118. But he was closely trailed by Doug Bernard from Orlando and John Osborne. Brayden DeRazza from Lake Mary, FL also showcased his skills, ensuring his name was not forgotten that evening.

Pinball Royalty

The night concluded with some clear champions:

1. Doug Bernard – This Orlando native topped the charts, reminding everyone of his mastery.
2. John Moschella – He might have been second on the list, but his gameplay resonated with flair and finesse.
3. Justin Derazza – Consistently great throughout.
4. Brayden DeRazza – Proving that Lake Mary, FL, has some serious pinball talent.

Spotlight on Machines

The Pinball Lounge’s vast collection of 37 machines ensured that players had a diverse range of games to test their skills. Some of the crowd favorites included:

• Attack from Mars by Bally – A cosmic adventure from 1995.
• Batman 66 (Premium) by Stern – Reliving Gotham’s adventures from 2016.
• Funhouse by Williams – A trip back to 1990 with Rudy the ventriloquist dummy.
• The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern – Bringing the latest Star Wars saga to pinball from 2021.
• Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure by Williams – An adventurous ride from 1993.

The Lounge Experience

For those unfamiliar with The Pinball Lounge, it’s more than just a venue with pinball machines. It’s a vibrant community spot where novices can feel at ease and professionals can feel challenged. With all-you-can-play nights, themed events, and a fantastic atmosphere, it’s no wonder pinball fans flock here. Plus, who can resist the delightful combo of pinball, food, and adult beverages?

Florida’s Finest Flippers

A glance at the top pinball players in Florida:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Shannon Stafford	Orange Park	329.54
2	Eric Stone	Fort Myers	304.72
3	Vince Gelormine	Fort Lauderdale	271.69
4	Sebastian Bobbio		265.88
5	Dan Coyle	St. Petersburg	194.73
6	Dr. Frank Sposaro	Lakeland	151.96
7	Adam Gray	Temple Terrace	146.87
8	David Miller FL	Tampa	140.89
9	Brayden Derazza	Lake Mary	139.7
10	John Moschella	Winter Springs	126.82

As the thunderstorm raged outside, inside The Pinball Lounge, another storm was brewing. But by night’s end, players left with memories of thrilling victories, narrow defeats, and the promise of more pinball adventures to come. Stay plugged in for more pinball updates, because the silver ball saga never truly ends!

With a backdrop of clear skies and the Florida humidity making 86°F feel like a scorching 98°F, pinball aficionados descended upon The Pinball Lounge in Oviedo, Florida. The clock marked 7 PM, and over the next 3 and a half hours, the deafening dings, lights, and competitive roars filled the air.

Embryon Extravaganza!

The real action crescendoed during Round 5 on the vintage Embryon by Bally, dating back to 1981. Garrett Smoke, despite his IFPA rank of 3417, defied all expectations by landing the top spot. Hot on his heels was the seasoned John Moschella from Winter Springs, Florida, followed by Justin Derazza and Nick Smith. As the ball rolled, plunged, and ricocheted, it wasn’t just a game. It was history meeting the present, both in terms of the players and the machine.

A Gallery of Gaming Greatness

The Lounge boasted 30 pinball machines, an impressive repertoire for the aficionado and the amateur alike. While each had its own charm, a few deserved a special mention:

• Cyclone by Williams: Taking players on a ride since 1988.
• Funhouse by Williams: Known for Rudy, the talking dummy head – don’t be startled!
• Guardians of the Galaxy (Premium) by Stern: A star-studded space saga dating back to 2017.
• Paragon by Bally: With a beastly allure since 1978.
• Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern: All the mysterious happenings of Hawkins town, right from 2019.

The Conquerors of The Lounge

While every player put forth a spirited fight, the leaderboard had its champions. Garrett Smoke smoked the competition, followed closely by Justin Derazza, and John Moschella. John Osborne rounded off the top four with some spectacular gameplay, despite his comparatively higher IFPA rank.

The Lounge Experience

For those unfamiliar with The Pinball Lounge’s allure, it’s not just about the games. A visitor’s testament speaks volumes: “Visiting Orlando and chanced upon this haven. Skipped the drinks, but the massive selection of pinball kept us engrossed for hours. A must-visit for every pinball enthusiast.”

Florida’s Flipper Fanatics

Let’s have a peek at where Florida’s finest pinball players stand:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Shannon Stafford	Orange Park	321.21
2	Eric Stone	Fort Myers	305.25
3	Vince Gelormine	Fort Lauderdale	262.96
4	Sebastian Bobbio		236.21
5	Dan Coyle	St. Petersburg	195.15
6	Dr. Frank Sposaro	Lakeland	151.96
7	Adam Gray	Temple Terrace	142.14
8	David Miller FL	Tampa	133.26
9	Brayden Derazza	Lake Mary	109.63
10	John Moschella	Winter Springs	108.87

With another tournament wrapped up, the world of pinball continues its eternal dance of lights, sounds, and silver balls. For fans, newbies, and everyone in between, stay flipped on for more updates from this enthralling realm!

Silver Ball Fever in Sunny Jacksonville

September 10, 2023, Jacksonville, Florida: While a light rain tapped on the windows and temperatures rose to a steamy 89°F (feeling more like a tropical 98°F), the real heat was happening indoors. Video Game Rescue Arcade on Blanding Blvd was the place to be for every pinball enthusiast in town. Nick Byrd’s meticulously organized Pinsomniacs Pinball VGR Matchplay 9-10-23 tournament kicked off at high noon, promising a day full of flicks, tricks, and more than a few tilts.

Epic Deadpool Duel Steals the Spotlight

If you thought pinball was a quick game, think again. In what can only be described as an epic showdown, Round 2 saw competitors locking horns on the “Deadpool (Pro)” machine by Stern. Jokton Strealy, Shannon Stafford, Imre Szollosi, and Andrew Hopper played a jaw-dropping match that lasted a head-scratching 9807 minutes (That’s a joke, right? They’d be playing for almost a week!). When the dust settled, it was Jokton who emerged victorious, showcasing his skill and patience.

And the Winner is…

Shannon Stafford, with an impressive IFPA rank of 78, managed to clinch the top spot at the tournament, further establishing her dominance in the IFPA Florida Pinball rankings. Kudos also go out to Imre Szollosi (with a notable 20-point adjustment), Jokton Strealy, and Andrew Hopper who rounded out the top four.

Machines of the Moment

From classics like “Judge Dredd” by Bally to modern hits like “The Mandalorian (Pro)” by Stern, the tournament boasted a curated collection of 8 pinball machines. Whether you were in the mood for the goofy antics of “Austin Powers” or the action-packed gameplay of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles“, there was a pinball machine ready to challenge and entertain.

Gaming Nostalgia at Video Game Rescue

Beyond the pinball, the Video Game Rescue Arcade offered a delightful dive into gaming history. With a stunning array of new and classic games, as well as a treasure trove of accessories for systems like NES and Genesis, it’s a haven for any retro gamer. A shoutout to Maurice, Mark, and Casey for their assistance and the wide range of toys and posters that added charm to the venue. It’s no wonder that this location has garnered so much love, especially with the closure of its sister location.

Florida’s Finest Flipper Fanatics

The Florida pinball scene is alive and well, with players fiercely competing for those coveted Wppr Points. Here’s a snapshot of the top contenders:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Shannon Stafford	Orange Park	321.21
2	Eric Stone	Fort Myers	305.25
3	Vince Gelormine	Fort Lauderdale	262.96
4	Sebastian Bobbio		236.21
5	Dan Coyle	St. Petersburg	195.15
6	Dr. Frank Sposaro	Lakeland	151.96
7	Adam Gray	Temple Terrace	142.14
8	David Miller FL	Tampa	133.26
9	Brayden Derazza	Lake Mary	109.63
10	John Moschella	Winter Springs	108.87

---

In conclusion, the Pinsomniacs Pinball VGR Matchplay 9-10-23 tournament was more than just a competition – it was a celebration of the timeless allure of pinball. So, here’s to the silver ball, the players, and the promise of more pinball adventures to come!

Until next time, keep those flippers flippin’ and stay tuned for more pinball updates!

When Tacos Met Tilt

August 27, 2023, was not your usual scorcher in Jacksonville, Florida. With the thermometer showing 91°F and scattered clouds offering minimal respite, the pinball action was just heating up inside Tepey’s Taps & Tacos. Organized by the illustrious Nick Byrd, this tournament boasted 23 players but, paradoxically, zero rounds. Zero rounds, you say? Yes, we’re as perplexed as you are, but let’s roll with it—much like the pinballs themselves.

Attack from Mars: The Showdown of Aliens and Egos

In a tournament that defied the very concept of ’rounds,’ one game still managed to break free from the mold and claim the spotlight. The game took place on the ‘Attack from Mars‘ machine, an old gem by Bally that’s been abducting quarters since 1995.

Jokton Strealy, hailing from Valdosta, GA, claimed victory. Hot on his heels was Shannon Stafford, who despite a lower placing in this game, showed why they’re a force to reckon with. Andra Booth and Sally Miller, the underdogs, made sure it wasn’t an easy win for anyone.

The Unexpected and The Expected: Overall Winners

It turns out, Shannon Stafford got the last laugh as they ended up winning the tournament overall. Their IFPA rank of 73 wasn’t just for show. Following them was Jokton Strealy and Dan Cone. Special mention goes to Imre Szollosi, whose IFPA rank is a mysterious 0. That’s right, Imre is basically the Banksy of pinball, participating incognito but still snagging 4th place. What’s your secret, Imre?

Machine Mania: Choose Your Battles

The tournament featured a unique selection of 9 pinball machines. For fans of Eleven and her crew, the ‘Stranger Things‘ machine was a hit. For those nostalgic for ’90s B-movies, ‘Creature from the Black Lagoon‘ was the go-to. Stern’s latest release, ‘Foo Fighters,’ also joined the ranks, perfectly blending rock n’ roll with flipper skills.

Tepey’s Taps & Tacos: The Place to Be

As for the venue, if you’re looking for a place that serves delicious tacos and fun in equal measure, look no further. Whether you’re coming for happy hour specials or the games, Tepey’s Taps & Tacos is a jackpot! Check out their website and the plethora of good times they offer.

Top 10 Pinball Wizards of the Sunshine State

In the spirit of giving due credit, here’s the current IFPA Florida Top 10:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Shannon Stafford	Orange Park	314.73
2	Eric Stone	Fort Myers	299.5
3	Vince Gelormine	Fort Lauderdale	259.63
4	Sebastian Bobbio		212.61
5	Dan Coyle	St. Petersburg	195.15
6	Dr. Frank Sposaro	Lakeland	151.48
7	Adam Gray	Temple Terrace	132.88
8	David Miller FL	Tampa	121.18
9	Brayden Derazza	Lake Mary	109.28
10	John Moschella	Winter Springs	105.91

---

That’s it for now, pinballers! Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of flippers, ramps, and multiballs!

Glitz, Glamour, and Pinball

On July 23rd, 2023, the spirited clang of metal balls against glass echoed through Tepey’s Taps & Tacos, Jacksonville’s pinball hub. The Pinsomniacs Pinball Piins & Pints July Tournament was in full swing, offering competitors the kind of fiery, flippity fun only a classic arcade game can deliver. Organized by the ever-passionate Nick Byrd, the event saw 18 pinball wizards locked in a heated battle, their eyes glittering with competitive spirit.

The Tantalizing Twilight Zone Duel

The real drama of the day unfolded on the iconic Twilight Zone machine by Bally, which dates back to 1993. As the round began, onlookers knew they were in for a treat. Shannon Stafford, holding a respectable IFPA rank of 73, took first place. Meanwhile, Tristan Stafford, Dan Cone, and Connor McClure chased close behind. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of watching expert players battle on a classic machine. And in this case, Shannon proved their expertise with a decisive victory.

And the Pinball Crown Goes To…

The overall leaderboard held few surprises. Shannon Stafford, fresh from their Twilight Zone win, secured the top spot. Tristan Stafford, Jokton Strealy (our out-of-towner from Valdosta, GA), and Dan Cone rounded off the top four. Given Shannon’s track record in the IFPA Florida Pinball standings, many saw this victory as yet another feather in their cap.

Machines that Captured Hearts

Beyond Twilight Zone, the venue boasted a captivating range of pinball machines, from the retro allure of Creature from the Black Lagoon to the pop culture-driven thrill of Foo Fighters (Pro). Whether you’re a purist who longs for the feel of a vintage machine or someone chasing the latest Stern release, there was something for everyone.

A Venue with a Vibe

The pulsating energy of the games was perfectly complemented by the laid-back vibe of Tepey’s Taps & Tacos. With tantalizing tacos on the menu and an array of delightful drinks, the venue added a zesty flavor to the competition. Their happy hour is, without a doubt, the stuff of legends!

Florida’s Pinball Elite

Speaking of legends, the current IFPA Florida Pinball Top 10 Standings paints a riveting picture of the state’s best players:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points	Events Played	Wins
1	Shannon Stafford	Orange Park	314.73	20	15
2	Eric Stone	Fort Myers	299.5	20	23
3	Vince Gelormine	Fort Lauderdale	259.63	20	6
4	Sebastian Bobbio		212.61	20	7
5	Dan Coyle	St. Petersburg	195.15	17	4
6	Dr. Frank Sposaro	Lakeland	151.48	20	6
7	Adam Gray	Temple Terrace	132.88	20	5
8	David Miller FL	Tampa	121.18	20	1
9	Brayden Derazza	Lake Mary	109.29	20	3
10	John Moschella	Winter Springs	105.91	20	1

In conclusion, the Pinsomniacs Pinball Piins & Pints July Tournament was an affair to remember. Combining the thrill of the game with the zest of Tepey’s, the day was a testimony to why pinball will forever remain an iconic pastime.

Stay flippin’ and stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!