Of Silver Balls and Sumptuous Bites: A Day at Louie’s Tap House

In the gentle embrace of a few clouds and a soothing 80°F temperature, Roscoe, Illinois, wasn’t just about the weather on September 10, 2023. Inside Louie’s Tap House, the real storm was raging. The Stern Army-Louie’s Silverball Sunday Monthly- September Tournament was in full swing. Over 10 hours of intense pinball action, thrills, and some epic rivalries.

Louie’s: More Than Just A Tap House

Louie’s Tap House is an interesting amalgamation of craft beers, a culinary delight, and, of course, pinball. If you had apprehensions about the pricing, let the Buffalo chicken macaroni, and cheese with a side of cheese curds quell them. While your taste buds dance in glee, your fingers can get busy with a stunning array of pinball machines. A paradise for both gourmets and gamers.

The Longest Game: A Saga on ‘Big Game’

The day’s spotlight was stolen by a 137-minute-long game on Big Game by Stern, a gem from 1980. It’s the kind of game duration that could be mistaken for a full-length movie. But no, this was Tom Menge, David Slaymaker, Vinnie Bologna, and Emily Anderson engrossed in a timeless pinball duel.

The Fabulous Machines of the Day

While Big Game had its epic, other pinball machines were no less the stars. The venomous charm of Venom (Pro) by Stern, the spooky yet delightful Scooby-Doo (CE) by Spooky Pinball, the debonair charisma of James Bond 007 (Premium), and the rock anthems blaring from Foo Fighters (Premium) kept players and spectators alike enthralled.

Champions of The Day

Tom Menge, the organizer, was not only great behind the scenes but also in front of the pinball machine. He secured first place, showing his prowess in both organization and gameplay. Followed by David Slaymaker from Rockford, Vinnie Bologna, and Emily Anderson from Peosta – they all showcased exceptional skills, reminding everyone why they were in the finals.

Illinois’s Pinball Titans

The cream of the crop in Illinois’s pinball arena currently stands as:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Andy BagwellElgin352.66
2Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village222.11
3John Miller MOSt. Louis184.42
4Ryan McQuaid179.12
5Chuck Sanderson169.23
6Steven BowdenPalatine160.65
7Alex LeckyChicago151.11
8Stephen ChappellFerguson143.42
9Bob TwichellOaklawn137.55
10Mike PantolianoSeattle130.1

So, the next time you find yourself in Roscoe, and you yearn for an amalgamation of craft beer, sumptuous bites, and pinball, you know where to go. Until next time, keep flipping and stay tuned for more pinball updates!

Pinball Showdown: Stern Army-Louie’s Silverball Sunday Monthly – A Tale of Titans

Ah, the age-old dance of silver balls and flashing lights, where skill meets chance, and competitors are just one flip away from victory or defeat. This September, the heart of Illinois echoed with the clink and clatter of pinball, bringing players and enthusiasts to the iconic Louie’s Tap House in Roscoe. As the sun beamed down from a clear sky, setting the perfect 80°F atmosphere, pinball warriors geared up for a showdown like no other.

Setting the Stage: Louie’s Tap House

Before we delve into the gripping action, let’s set the scene. Louie’s Tap House isn’t just a haven for pinball aficionados; it’s also a delight for the palate. One can’t help but be tempted by the mouth-watering French dip or get refreshed with a margarita that resonates with the very soul. With the ambiance of high-top seating, a plethora of TV screens, and options for outdoor seating or a secluded room away from the bar’s bustle, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to stay a while. Maybe even challenge someone to a game or two.

Epic Duel on the Big Game

Round 1 kicked off with a match of legends on the ‘Big Game‘ by Stern. This wasn’t just any game; it was an endurance test, stretching an impressive 137 minutes! The lead protagonist, Tom Menge (IFPA rank 505) and an avid pinball enthusiast from the Rockford IL area, David Slaymaker (IFPA rank 2399), put on a show that kept everyone at the edge of their seats. But in the end, Tom emerged victorious, with David trailing close behind. Vinnie Bologna and Emily Anderson, with their impressive gameplay, secured the 3rd and 4th spots respectively.

Titans of the Tournament

Tom Menge’s victory in Round 1 was no fluke. He continued his dominating streak and clinched the top position overall. David Slaymaker was not far behind, taking the 2nd spot, followed by Vinnie Bologna and Emily Anderson. Their ranks might vary, but their shared passion for pinball was evident.

Pinball Pantheon

With 11 machines available, players had their pick of challenges. Noteworthy mentions include the monstrous ‘Godzilla (Premium)‘ and the adrenaline-pumping ‘Venom (Pro)‘. Those seeking nostalgia could flip their way through ‘Space Invaders‘ or the memorable ‘Big Game‘. And for music aficionados, the ‘Foo Fighters (Premium)‘ offered a rhythmic escapade.

Illinois Pinball Royalty

It would be remiss not to mention the top pinball players gracing the Illinois scene:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Andy BagwellElgin352.67
2Raymond DavidsonElk Grove Village222.11
3John Miller MOSt. Louis184.42
4Ryan McQuaid179.12
5Chuck Sanderson169.23
6Steven BowdenPalatine160.65
7Alex LeckyChicago151.11
8Stephen ChappellFerguson143.42
9Bob TwichellOaklawn137.55
10Mike PantolianoSeattle130.09

The air was thick with competition and camaraderie, creating memories that will be cherished by participants and spectators alike.

So, here’s to another chapter in the ever-evolving story of pinball. Until next time, keep those flippers flippin’, and never let the ball slip between them! Cheers to the world of pinball and its glorious unpredictability!

Pins, Play, & Pizzazz: The Pinsomniacs Pinball Showdown at VGR

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:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Shannon StaffordOrange Park321.21
2Eric StoneFort Myers305.25
3Vince GelormineFort Lauderdale262.96
4Sebastian Bobbio236.21
5Dan CoyleSt. Petersburg195.15
6Dr. Frank SposaroLakeland151.96
7Adam GrayTemple Terrace142.14
8David Miller FLTampa133.26
9Brayden DerazzaLake Mary109.63
10John MoschellaWinter Springs108.87

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!

Dinosaurs, Superheroes, and Flippers: A Pinball Showdown in Ellisville!

Underneath the broken clouds and a pleasantly even 76°F, on September 09, 2023, pinball enthusiasts converged at a rather unlikely venue – West County Lanes in Ellisville, MO. This wasn’t about strikes, spares, or turkeys. Instead, it was about flippers, bumpers, and that illustrious high score.

West County Lanes: More Than Just Bowling 🎳

It might be easy to dismiss West County Lanes as just another local bowling alley, but you’d be missing out on its 80’s styled arcade🕹 and the pinball bar room🍻. A retreat for some low-key fun and perhaps a hint of nostalgia for the older gamers. The neon lights of the pinball machines stood in stark contrast to the wood of the bowling lanes. Families and friends cheered, not just for strikes but for every saved ball and target hit.

The Game Plan

Organized by the ever-efficient Dean Huber, the WCP Second Saturday Stern Army Tournament was no amateur hour. With 6 rounds, 10 players, and groups of four, the strategy was simple but the competition fierce. Earn those points, and earn them fast!

Heroes, Monsters, and Outer Space: The Pinball Machines

With a lineup of 10 machines, let’s thrust the spotlight on some that truly dazzled:

A Game Worth Every Flip: Round 5 Spotlight

On Jurassic Park (Premium), players showcased some dino-sized skills. Dave Rush from BALLWIN, MO, snagged the top spot, followed closely by Zach Pilger and Steve Smith IL. The talented Haley Huber from Ballwin MO wrapped up the round in fourth place.

Pinball Champions of the Day

A round of applause for the pinball wizards:

  1. Steve Smith IL: With a notable IFPA rank of 1162, he emerged on top.
  2. Carrie Gaines: A rising star with an IFPA rank of 11251.
  3. Dave Rush: The dino-tamer from BALLWIN, MO.
  4. Haley Huber: Consistency and skill got her the fourth spot.

Missouri’s Best Pinballers

Here’s a look at the IFPA Missouri Pinball Top 10:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1John Miller MOSt. Louis305.52
2Kendell HolderSt. Louis214.18
3Brennan SullivanSt. Louis196.53
4Adam McKinnieColumbia185.92
5Steve RolsingSt. Louis169.11
6Chris WardSt. Louis165.23
7Jacob FischerSt. Louis155.66
8Carleton PlourdeSt. Louis120.36
9Mike HowardSt. Louis119.67
10Travis MurieOklahoma City117.02

Till The Next Ball Drops

As the flippers rested and the neon lights dimmed, the tournament came to an end. But in the hearts of the players and the audience, the memories of the day would continue to twinkle. Ellisville, you’ve been grand!

For more pinball showdowns and updates, keep those flippers ready and stay tuned!

Scorching Skies and Sizzling Skills: The Starfighters Monthly Pinball Showdown

Amidst the blistering Arizona heat of 107°F (though a gentle breeze made it feel like 105°F), the pinball enthusiasts of Mesa and beyond converged on Starfighters Arcade for an afternoon of electrifying competition. The very atmosphere of the venue tingled with the promise of dueling flippers and blinking lights.

Setting the Scene at Starfighters

Starfighters Arcade proved to be the haven for pinball and arcade aficionados, maintaining a cool interior oasis that contrasted sharply with the sun-baked landscape outside. The first-timer’s review said it all: “More people need to know about this place!” With its vast array of cabinets and machines, it was no surprise the venue was picked for such an event.

The Tournament Format: Ruthless Knockouts!

With a staggering 73 players signing up, the challenge was on! The Starfighters Monthly followed a Basic Knockout Tournament format, a ruthless yet exhilarating contest where players were paired in two-player games. The stakes? High! After receiving 3 strikes, you’re out! This format kept everyone on their toes, ensuring suspense hung thick in the air until the very end.

From Monsters to Marvels: The Machines of the Day

While the tournament had a whopping 35 pinball machines at the ready, some drew more attention than others. From the classic Xenon by Bally, which transported players back to 1980, to the wild west showdown of Cactus Canyon (Remake Special), released only two years prior, there was something for everyone. Nostalgia bubbled up with Monster Bash and Cirqus Voltaire, while the adventurous spirits gravitated towards Pirates of the Caribbean and Jurassic Park (Premium). And for the Marvel fans? Avengers: Infinity Quest (Premium) was the go-to.

The Godzilla Gauntlet

Round 6 proved to be one for the books with a fierce battle on Godzilla (Premium) by Stern. David Gray Jr., with his rank of 3543, proved the underdog story wasn’t just a myth, clinching the top spot. He was closely followed by Stephanie Turner, Miguel Martinez, and Dave Halley, who all gave commendable performances.

The Crowning Champions

The final whistle had the crowd cheering for:

  • John Shopple (Mesa, AZ) – IFPA rank 111, with an impressive 357 IFPA Events under his belt.
  • Greg Davis (Phoenix, AZ) – IFPA rank 383, veteran of 153 IFPA Events.
  • John Magyar (Gilbert, AZ) – IFPA rank 247, boasting 150 IFPA Events.
  • Will McKinney (Phoenix, AZ) – IFPA rank 140, a seasoned player with 275 IFPA Events to his name.

Arizona’s Pinball Pioneers

As the dust settled, here’s a peek at where our winners and other pinball aces of Arizona stood:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau672.29
2Mark PearsonPhoenix588.58
3John ShoppleMesa570.07
4John MagyarGilbert352.81
5Kevan CarterTempe321.37
6Jason BarreMesa312.27
7Adam HortonPhoenix307.64
8Paul BlancoChandler306.32
9Joey RioSurprise282
10Walter DonyPhoenix281.39

Kudos to Kevin Curtis for orchestrating a pinball spectacle that will be talked about for months to come. The Starfighters Monthly was not just another tournament—it was an experience. So, fellow pinball lovers, always remember: Stay flippin’ and tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!

The Heat of Battle: Starfighters Kids Monthly Pinball Showdown!

The vibrant state of Arizona isn’t just known for its deserts and cacti. It’s also home to some of the most passionate young pinball wizards in the US, as proven by the recent Starfighters Kids Monthly Pinball Tournament. Taking place at the renowned Starfighters Arcade, this event was a testament to the undying spirit of arcade games and the passion of the next generation.

Where the Magic Happened

The 8-hour, 13-minute showdown took place on September 9, 2023, and was organized by the arcade enthusiast, Kevin Curtis. If you’re interested in the intricacies of the event, feel free to explore the official Starfighters website. This competition saw 40 youngsters form groups of four, battling each other in a series of four nail-biting rounds. The desert sun blazed outside with temperatures hitting 102°F, but nothing could heat up the atmosphere more than the intense competition inside the arcade.

Games, Glare, and Monster Bash

One of the most unforgettable moments was during Round 1, where players clashed on the iconic Monster Bash by Williams. Young Anthony P. showcased an outstanding performance, seizing first place and leaving Jason C., Zach S., and Kobe T. in the subsequent positions. With Monster Bash’s Dracula, Wolf Man, and Frankenstein figures flashing and grooving to the rock-n-roll beats, this match will remain in the annals of Starfighters’ history.

Champions of the Day

A huge round of applause goes to:

  1. Kenny F. with an IFPA rank of 10781, showing the world that rankings aren’t everything.
  2. Anthony P. proving that every game is an opportunity.
  3. Jackson S. making his debut in the world of pinball tournaments.
  4. Mollie M. an emerging star with a penchant for flippers and flashing lights.

Pinball Paradise

The Starfighters arcade is truly a pinball paradise. With classics like ‘Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure‘ and newer sensations like ‘Cactus Canyon (Remake Special)‘, there’s something for everyone. Not to mention the vibrant ‘Cirqus Voltaire‘ and the hair-raising ‘Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Premium)‘. But the cherry on top was the spine-chilling ‘Monster Bash’.

The Good, the Bad, and the Starfighters

Starfighters Arcade, although located in an industrial office setup, has a unique charm. Their vast array of retro games, combined with the unlimited play offer for just $11, is a steal. The staff is friendly, and there’s a contagious energy in the air. Sadly, you’ll have to satisfy your hunger pangs elsewhere.

Arizona’s Pinball Maestros

Speaking of competition, let’s look at the state’s top pinball aficionados:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Roland Nadeau605.27
2Mark PearsonPhoenix535.49
3John ShoppleMesa519.45
4John MagyarGilbert315.33
5Paul BlancoChandler303.5
6Kevan CarterTempe295.36
7Jason BarreMesa292.28
8Joey RioSurprise282
9Adam HortonPhoenix276.75
10Andrew Roesch255.02

The Pinball Journey Continues

This event was a clear testament to the undying passion for pinball among the youngsters. As the flippers reset and the high scores flash, we await the next thrilling chapter in the saga of pinball showdowns. Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!

Pinball Royalty Crowned at Belles & Chimes GR: A Day of Flippers, Bells, and Cheers

Imagine spending 7 hours and 18 minutes in a room filled with the nostalgia-laden dings and whizzes of pinball machines. That’s exactly what transpired at the Belles & Chimes GR Sept 2023 tournament on September 9th, organized by the indefatigable Karen Cummings. But don’t let the nostalgia fool you; the tournament format brought a modern, intense structure that made the experience even more electrifying.

The Format: Where Every Flipper Counts

Unique to the event was its format. With a total of 9 players, the tournament featured 12 games for each contestant in the initial phase. Players went head-to-head, earning points based on their finishing positions. Talk about marathon pinballing! But that wasn’t all. The top 4 players moved onto the Finals, which consisted of two grueling rounds with three games per round. This format not only tested the players’ skill but also their endurance and strategy, making it a holistic pinball championship.

A Venue with a Pinball Soul

RLM Amusements in Grand Rapids, Michigan, provided an atmosphere that felt like every pinball lover’s dream living room. The venue hosted 27 machines ranging from vintage to modern, all in pristine working condition.

The Unforgettable Godzilla Round

Amidst the pinball pandemonium, a stand-out game took place on the Godzilla machine from 1998. Lisa LaBelle took the win, stamping her authority on the game and marking herself as one to watch for the rest of the tournament.

Machines That Were More Than Just a High Score

Several machines became the unsung heroes of the event, including the evergreen “300” by Gottlieb and the Avengers: Infinity Quest (Premium) which had the longest average game duration. Newcomers like Venom (Pro) by Stern showcased the bright future of pinball.

The Grand Finale

The Finals were a high-tension affair, with Lisa LaBelle from Holland, MI, clinching the first place. Robin Abbott, Karin Tessin, and Karen Cummings followed, each with an impressive number of wins and IFPA events under their belt.

Michigan’s Best: A Quick Look

And since we’re talking champions, let’s give a nod to the IFPA Michigan Pinball Top 10 Standings:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Sterling MitoskaBrooklyn450.93
2Rodney MinchGrand Rapids444.74
3Rick KnopikEvansville376.77
4Matthew StacksGrand Rapids306.04
5Dominic LabellaBay City296.29
6Alex HarmonSpring Lake273.51
7Ethan Magnum–249.27
8Jason HumphreyJackson240.07
9Sean BurkeWaterford Township219.34
10Philip SalminenMidland212.86

All said and done, the Belles & Chimes GR Sept 2023 tournament proved to be a pinball extravaganza unlike any other. It showcased the skill and passion of players who dedicated their day to the love of the game. No wonder folks were flipping out. Stay tuned for more updates from the buzzing, clattering, tilting world of pinball!

An Evening at Sparkeasy: Pinballs, Players, and Pure Excitement!

Ah, Chesterfield, MI – where the skies may be overcast, but the pinball sparks fly brighter than ever. On an evening with the cool air setting in at 64°F, 24 passionate players gathered for the Sparkeasy 9-8-23 pinball tournament. If you ever wondered what dedication looks like, it’s witnessing the event last just shy of 3 hours, with every game packed with suspense.

The Spectacle of Sparks Pinball Museum | Arcade & Bar

Before diving into the nitty-gritty of the tournament, let’s talk about the venue. Sparks Pinball Museum is not your average arcade – it’s a time machine. The aura of the place is such that you can almost hear the echoes of decades past, mingling with the clinking and clanking of the present-day machines. What’s not to love about a place that serves history with a side of fun? For those new to the scene, it’s like a mini-museum where you can actually touch (and play) the exhibits!

The Machines That Made the Night

Now, onto the real stars of the show – the pinball machines. The Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure by Williams was an absolute crowd-puller, recording six games for the evening. But the one machine that caught everyone’s attention was the Halloween (Blood Sucker Edition) by Spooky Pinball. With an average game duration of 20 minutes, players were on the edge, fully immersed in the ghostly thrill it offered.

Special mention to Funhouse, Stars, and Red & Ted’s Road Show, which kept the old-school charm alive. And of course, the The Mandalorian (Pro) by Stern, where the drama of Round 1 unfolded.

A Game to Remember

The confrontation in Round 1 on The Mandalorian was like the battle scenes from the series itself. Bill Mann took the lead, with Mike Stewart Jr. not far behind. Jeff Catenacci and Jimmy Piornack gave their best shots, with Jeff coming from Roseville, making his hometown proud.

The Titans of the Tournament

Aaron Grabowski’s success was one for the books. While having an IFPA rank of 5573, his 4 wins showcased pure skill. However, the surprise element was Mike Stewart Jr. With 7 wins under his belt, the player made quite the impression. And let’s not forget Bill Mann, Kevin Rowe, and the rest of the top 8, each bringing their A-game.

The Best in Michigan

Here’s a glimpse at the creme de la creme of Michigan’s pinball wizards:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Sterling MitoskaBrooklyn450.93
2Rodney MinchGrand Rapids444.73
3Rick KnopikEvansville376.76
4Matthew StacksGrand Rapids306.04
5Dominic LabellaBay City296.28
6Alex HarmonSpring Lake273.59
7Jason HumphreyJackson240.05
8Ethan Magnum237.89
9Sean BurkeWaterford Township219.36
10Philip SalminenMidland212.86

A whirlwind evening at Sparkeasy, full of twists, turns, and terrific gameplay! But, as they say in pinball – the game is never truly over. So, stay tuned for the next exciting update from the buzzing world of pinball!

Flippin’ Through History at District 82: A Pinball Showdown to Remember!

In the crisp, autumnal air of De Pere, WI, under a clear sky, pinball enthusiasts from far and wide congregated at District 82 Pinball for the Flippin’ Friday Sept 8th tournament. The scent of nostalgia was palpable as players, surrounded by meticulously maintained machines spanning decades, prepped for an intense 7 hours and 31 minutes of pure, unadulterated pinball action.

Tournament Overview:

The clock struck 18:00, and the tournament was in full swing. Organized by the maestro of pinball tournaments, Erik Thoren, the evening was destined for greatness. With 37 contenders vying for the top spot across 4 rounds of 2 games each, the strategy was simple – outscore, outperform, and outlast your opponents. But as we’ve learned from history, execution is always harder than planning.

Game Spotlight:

One of the most thrilling matches took place on a true pinball classic – the Lost World by Bally, dated back to August 1978. Emerging from the midst of pinball warfare were our top contenders: Brian Leuthner clinching the top spot followed closely by Ryan Hacker. Tom Graf, our enigmatic player from PARTS UNKNOWN (and seriously, where is that?) took the third place, while Scott Landowski completed the quartet.

Ruling the Roster:

The final drum roll heralded our champions:

  1. The local hero, Brian Leuthner, ranked 249 in the IFPA.
  2. Tim Petitjean, showcasing his seasoned experience, took the second spot.
  3. Holden Milanowski, the gem from Combined Locks, WI, ranked 3rd.
  4. Not to be outdone, the man behind the evening, Erik Thoren, showcased his prowess by clinching the 4th position.

A Time Machine of Pinball Machines:

District 82’s repertoire is nothing short of a museum, with 116 pinball machines that recount the tales of yesteryears. Among the legends:

The Heartbeat of the Venue:

District 82 website is not your everyday arcade; it’s a time capsule. With tables set for tournament play, it’s a paradise for the pros and a challenge for the intermediates, ensuring everyone has something to take away. The machines are pristine, the ambiance is top-notch (a perfect 5 stars!), but here’s a note: they’re strict about their settings. So, for the casual visitor hoping for an easy play, brace for a challenge! The essence of District 82 lies in its dedication to tournaments, a commitment you’ll appreciate on every visit.

The IFPA Wisconsin Whizzes:

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Luke NahorniakLonsdale1265.37
2Jared AugustWest Bloomfield Township1165.25
3Neil GrafAppleton1143.65
4Escher Lefkoff1050.09
5Steven BowdenPalatine998.83
6Jason WerdrickPark Ridge737.47
7Zach McCarthyConifer737.28
8Erik ThorenDe Pere732.17
9David DalugaMilwaukee691.14
10Jordan Dechaine683.91

As the flippers rest and the lights dim at District 82, the memories of this pinball showdown will remain vivid for a long time. Can’t wait to see what’s next in store! Stay plugged into the pinball world with us.

The NWPC Pre-Tourney – 4Bs Pinball Palooza: When the Clouds Gather, So Do The Players!

Dark overcast clouds settled over Seattle, giving the city a cinematic, moody feel, fitting for an event that was anything but predictable. With the temperature hovering around 66°F outside this evening, inside the 4Bs Tavern the atmosphere was entirely different: feverish, exciting, and palpable.

On the evening of September 7, 2023, pinball enthusiasts gathered for the NWPC Pre-Tourney – 4Bs pinball tournament, held at the ever-popular 4Bs Tavern. This wasn’t just another gathering; it was a war zone of flippers, silver balls, and brilliantly lit playfields. Organized by the revered Germain Mariolle, the event lasted a whopping 10 hours and 12 minutes.

The Machines That Took The Limelight

With 13 pinball machines from various eras vying for attention, a few managed to steal the limelight:

… And several others had players queued up for another shot at glory.

Standout Game: The Wheel of Fortune Decides

The semifinals saw a fierce battle on the Wheel of Fortune machine, a classic from Stern that’s been captivating players since 2007. Leslie Ruckman from California, boasting an impressive IFPA rank of 168, clinched the first spot. She was closely followed by Maka Honig and Seattle’s very own Jarrett Gaddy, with Daniel Salo from Los Angeles finishing fourth. The dynamics, energy, and sheer skill on display were a testament to how intense and competitive pinball can be.

Champions Rise

Jon Salzman, with his agile fingers and focused demeanor, emerged as the champion, followed by Maka Honig, Zac Wollons, and the ever-talented Leslie Ruckman. These players showcased an unparalleled mastery over the machines, ensuring their positions among the elite.

The Venue: 4Bs Tavern

Having been revamped in late 2021 or early 2022, 4Bs Tavern managed to retain its dive bar soul while adding a touch of modern class. Apart from the immersive pinball experience, one could sense a comfortable, unpretentious charm about the place, further elevated by its unique square wooden-framed area, perhaps ready for an impromptu music session or a stand-up act.

The IFPA Washington Standings Speak Volumes

RankPlayer NameCityWppr Points
1Lonnie LangfordSeattle479.13
2Jarrett GaddySeattle427.93
3Germain MariolleRedmond427.18
4David ChernicoffSeattle417.6
5Richie TerrySeattle375.66
6Sean IrbySeattle360.93
7Dave StewartCarnation350.99
8Neal JoslynBremerton339.8
9Jaran JonesSeattle291.33
10Alex Singleterry284.17

The standings are a testament to the level of dedication and passion the players bring to the table (pun intended).

As the silver balls came to rest and the scores were tallied, the event closed with anticipation in the air. For in the realm of pinball, there’s always another game, another tournament, another challenge just around the corner. Stay tuned for more electrifying updates!