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Pinball, Bourbon, and the Surprise Upset at Superelectric

As summer started winding down on a beautifully clear day with temperatures at 71°F, Cleveland’s Superelectric Pinball Parlour at 6500 Detroit Ave was just heating up. On August 27th, 2023, 20 pinball wizards, both seasoned and fresh-faced, descended upon the venue for the Superelectric Pinball Battle.

Atmosphere on the Tilt

Cleveland’s best-kept secret, Superelectric Pinball Parlor, isn’t just any pinball joint. With its tantalizing concoctions like the apricot-infused bourbon called Bull Durham and the economical $6 all-you-can-play pinball, the venue is an absolute treasure. Whether you’re a pinball league pro or simply looking for a retro night out, Superelectric has you covered. Also, if you’re on a quirky date night in Cleveland, this place can’t be missed. With both modern and vintage pinball machines, it’s a joyride through time.

A Game of Legacy and Legacies

One of the many highlights was the thrilling face-off on Stern’s Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast during the Semifinals. Aaron Rich (IFPA rank 80) claimed the top spot, closely followed by Terrence Carl, Kyle Shepard, and Bill Taylor. It’s worth noting that the game itself, released in April 2018, is inspired by the band’s legacy, much like the players are creating their own with every flip and score.

Pinball Wizards and their Machines

And speaking of machines, let’s chat about a personal favorite of mine: Bride of Pinbot by Williams. Oh, did I mention? I’m the Bride of Pinbot! Okay, not really, but let’s just say if I had a pinball alter ego, she’d be it!

Other crowd-pullers included the Game Of Thrones (Pro), a nod to the television behemoth, and Jurassic Park (Pro), where players dodged virtual velociraptors and T-Rexes with every ball. The newly released Foo Fighters (Pro) by Stern from 2023 also drew a considerable crowd, especially with its rock anthem infused gameplay.

Who Tilted To The Top?

John Delzoppo, the man behind this fantastic event, proved that organizers can be champions too by claiming the first spot. Following him was the impressive Bill Taylor, JD Chips, and Aaron Rich. A special mention goes out to JD Chips, a relatively new player with just 25 IFPA events under his belt, yet managing to secure the third spot. The top 8 showcased a delightful mix of experienced veterans and passionate newcomers.

IFPA’s Ohio Top 10: Pinball Pros

As the dust settled post-battle, let’s glance at Ohio’s top pinball prodigies:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Aaron RIch		555.06
2	Stephen Prusa	Cleveland	443.51
3	Carlos Delaserda	Columbus	385.07
4	Gregory Kennedy	Plain City	365.78
5	John Delzoppo	Cleveland	364.11
6	Andrew Lee	Cleveland	299.56
7	Jesse Baker	Cincinnati	276.08
8	Galvin Morgan	Olmsted Falls	272.17
9	Cody Webb	Westerville	253.03
10	Rod Lawrence	Cleveland	229.42

The Superelectric Pinball Battle of August 2023 showcased talent, strategy, and the undeniable charm of pinball. Until the flippers meet again, keep those high scores coming and stay tuned for more pinball updates!

ifpa ohio

Tacos, Taps, and Tilt: Unfolding the Pinsomniacs Pinball Tournament at Tepey’s

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!

florida ifpa

Grumpy’s Arcade Classic Battle: Nostalgia, Flipping Frenzy, and One Epic Spa Day!

The pinball world was alive and flipping on August 26, 2023, at the Starfighter Arcade. “Grumpy’s Arcade Classic Battle” was not just a tournament; it was a trip down memory lane, a celebration of all things shiny, buzzy, and bouncy. Organized by the pinball wizard himself, Kevin Curtis, this epic event brought together 31 pinball enthusiasts for an intense multi-round showdown, culminating in a nail-biting finale.

Spa Day in the Future?

Now, if you’re thinking of a relaxing spa day with soothing music and scented candles, think again. Here, at Grumpy’s, it was all about “Future Spa” by Bally—a vintage pinball gem from 1979. The Semifinals saw a scorching match on this classic, with Kevin Curtis bagging the top spot. It was clear that Curtis not only knew how to organize a cracking tournament but also how to dominate on the playfield. John Shopple, John Finnegan, and Walter Dony were right on his tail, making the match a feast for pinball enthusiasts!

The League of Extraordinary Pinballers

The winners of the tournament were nothing short of pinball wizards. Kevin Curtis claimed his throne, followed by John Shopple, Ken Klawitter, and Paul Blanco. A special shout-out to Ken Klawitter, who despite his 2578th IFPA rank and participation in just 17 IFPA events, showcased some brilliant gameplay to finish third. The underdog story, perhaps?

A Blast from the Past

The tournament showcased a dazzling array of 30 pinball machines, with some absolute classics stealing the spotlight. Machines like “Xenon” by Bally, “Charlie’s Angels” by Gottlieb, and the quirky “Mr. & Mrs. Pac-Man” by Bally took players and spectators on a nostalgia-filled trip back to the golden age of arcades. And let’s not forget “Evel Knievel” – a tribute to the daredevil spirit of the ’70s. Ah, those were the days!

Arcade Heaven at Starfighter

Located at Starfighter Arcade, the atmosphere was nothing short of nostalgia galore. As one visitor exclaimed, “What the mother-flipping-F!!??” this was a trip down the memory lane for many. A visitor even lamented about not knowing the arcade existed until recently despite living nearby for years. With the hum of machines like “Spy Hunter” and “Q*Bert”, it was as though time had wrapped itself around the 80s and brought its charm to 2023.

Arizona’s Finest

The tournament also offered a glimpse of Arizona’s finest pinball players. Here’s the IFPA Arizona Top 10 Standings:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Roland Nadeau		605.86
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	535.9
3	John Shopple	Mesa	520.11
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	316.37
5	Paul Blanco	Chandler	304.33
6	Kevan Carter	Tempe	295.89
7	Jason Barre	Mesa	292.36
8	Joey Rio	Surprise	282
9	Adam Horton	Phoenix	276.82
10	Andrew Roesch		255.21

In the world of pinball, where a perfect combination of skill, strategy, and sometimes sheer luck can lead to victory, this tournament was a reminder of the timeless charm of the game. So, here’s a tilt of the hat to all the players, the organizers, and the machines that make it all possible. Until the next clash of the pinball titans, keep those flippers flipping and stay tuned for more updates from the vibrant realm of pinball!

arizona ifpa

The Great Pinball Face-Off at I/O Arcade Bar

On the balmy evening of August 23, 2023, the air at Madison’s renowned I/O Arcade Bar was filled with the pings, dings, and whirls that only dedicated pinball wizards could conjure. Located at 924 Williamson Street, this esteemed venue played host to the Finals for Stern Army 2023 Monthly Pinball Tournament, a vibrant gathering of top-tier talent organized by the esteemed Michael Williams.

I/O Arcade: A Gamer’s Paradise

One step into the I/O Arcade Bar and the vibrant atmosphere engulfs you. The bar boasts a plethora of games and an enviable selection of beers, ensuring that both your gaming and gustatory needs are satisfied. Opting for quarters instead of tokens, the arcade gives a nod to nostalgia, while its exclusive adults-only policy promises an evening free from pint-sized interruptions. Whether you’re reminiscing with the Simpsons arcade game, scoring high on ski ball, or diving deep into the world of pinball, I/O Arcade caters to every gamer’s whim.

The Rivalry of the Ryans

The highlight of the tournament was undoubtedly the intense face-off during Round 3 on the freshly minted Scooby-Doo (CE) machine by Spooky Pinball. Ryan Eggers, ranked 764, demonstrated exemplary skill by beating out Ryan Spindler, who boasts a commendable IFPA rank of 168. While Spindler ultimately secured the overall championship, this round showcased that in the thrilling realm of pinball, anything’s possible!

A Pinballer’s Dream

This tournament was a showcase of some of the finest machines the pinball world has to offer. From the imaginative world of Toy Story 4 by Jersey Jack Pinball to the heart-pounding action of Godzilla (Premium) by Stern, players were treated to a vast array of challenges and themes. Not to forget the classic allure of Creature from the Black Lagoon or the contemporary twists of Foo Fighters (Pro), every machine had its own tales of triumphs and heartbreaks.

Wisconsin’s Best Flippers

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

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Luke Nahorniak	Lonsdale	1265.26
2	Jared August	West Bloomfield Township	1165.17
3	Neil Graf	Appleton	1143.83
4	Escher Lefkoff		1050.04
5	Steven Bowden	Palatine	998.79
6	Jason Werdrick	Park Ridge	737.42
7	Zach McCarthy	Conifer	737.24
8	Erik Thoren	De Pere	721.13
9	David Daluga	Milwaukee	691.22
10	Jordan Dechaine		683.84

As the evening concluded, the lights dimmed, and the flippers rested. But the echoes of the night’s exhilaration, rivalry, and the magic of the silver ball lingered on. Until the next clash of the pinball titans, keep those flippers ready and your eyes on the prize. The world of pinball awaits your next move!

ifpa wisconsin

Pinball Rendezvous at Free Gold Watch: The SFPD Fall Spectacle!

Shiny Balls and Clear Skies

The sun had dipped below the San Francisco skyline on August 23rd, 2023, and even though the clear sky showcased a comfortable 72°F, inside the Free Gold Watch arcade, the atmosphere was heating up. Located at 1767 Waller St, the arcade buzzed with the electrifying energy of the SFPD Fall 2023 #2 pinball tournament. With 73 fervent players and the San Francisco Pinball Dept. at the helm, the stage was set for an unforgettable night.

The ‘Dirty Harry’ Standoff

In a setting where time typically flies, one game seemed to defy this norm. A fierce competition on the classic ‘Dirty Harry‘ by Williams had players and spectators riveted. Lasting an astounding 2 hours and 8 minutes, Eric Wagensonner, with an IFPA rank of 287, showcased his prowess by claiming the top spot. Rob Coli, Anish Adalja, and Bridget McCracken made it an event to remember, each with their flips and tricks.

Masters of The Pinball Universe

When the dust settled, and the final ball had rolled into place, Eric Wagensonner stood tall as the champion of the evening. Gabe Da Silveira, Zac Wollons, and Chris Heilig followed suit, securing the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th spots respectively. These players, with their incredible skills and strategy, truly exemplified what it means to master the art of pinball.

Legends and Classics: The Machines

With a staggering collection of 59 machines, Free Gold Watch was nothing short of a pinball paradise. Notable among them were the adventurous ‘Pirates of the Caribbean‘ by Jersey Jack Pinball, the thrilling ‘Rick and Morty‘ by Spooky Pinball, and the mysterious ‘Tales of the Arabian Nights‘ by Williams. Each machine, with its unique gameplay and design, promised (and delivered) hours of fun.

An Arcade Gem in The Heart of San Francisco

Free Gold Watch isn’t just another arcade. It’s an experience. With a vibrant atmosphere, spotlessly clean environment, and a pricing that won’t hurt your wallet, it’s a haven for both arcade newbies and veterans. A heartfelt shoutout to the staff for their friendliness and to the owner for conceptualizing such a gem in the heart of San Francisco. Rest assured, many will be back for more!

Golden State’s Pin;/ball Titans

To honor those who’ve made a mark in the California pinball scene, here are the top 10 standouts:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points	Events Played	Wins
1	Raymond Ashby	Los Angeles	513.6	20	16
2	Tim Hansen	Sunnyvale	510.98	18	4
3	Gabe Da Silveira	Oakland	460.9	14	1
4	Scott Macias	Glendora	439.46	20	10
5	Nic Stein	Davis	413.47	14	3
6	Escher Lefkoff		411.53	4	1
7	Andrei Massenkoff	San Francisco	411.17	11	4
8	Keith Elwin	Carlsbad	409.63	3	1
9	Johnny Modica	Hacienda Heights	362.08	20	3
10	Daniele Celestino Acciari	Rocca di Papa	360.27	6	0

So, from the city that gave us the Golden Gate, we received another golden memory. As the balls rest and the lights dim, we await the next pinball extravaganza. Keep those flippers ready!

california ifpa

The Underdogs Rise: An Unexpected Turn at the PCMC-GB Pinball Tournament

Ah, the familiar sounds of flippers, bells, and that anticipatory tension as the ball is set into play. The pinball community congregated on August 23rd for the PCMC-GB Tournament, an event meticulously organized by Erik Thoren. But the real story wasn’t just about the expert flips or near misses. It was about the rise of the underdogs.

The Game That Spoke Volumes

Round 5 had attendees perched at the edges of their seats. The Nascar machine by Stern, a gem from 2005, was the stage of a dramatic showdown. Among the contenders, Rob Hatszegi, Sam Rusch, and Jonathon Zahn – all unranked by IFPA – showed that rankings can sometimes just be numbers. Rob clinching the top spot was a testament to raw talent and dedication.

The Unexpected Champions

The trend of surprises didn’t stop at just one game. By the end of the tournament, it was clear that the day belonged to those who’ve been hidden in the shadows. Donna Shallow, who’s never graced an IFPA event before, emerged as the top player of the day. Will Parker, Gary Manske, and Eric Jensen followed suit, proving that sometimes, the biggest talents are the most underrated.

A Journey Through Time With Pinballs

While the players were the main attraction, the pinball machines held their ground, offering a diverse range of experiences:

From the web-slinging fun of Spider-Man by Stern (2007)
To the creepy charisma of The Addams Family by Bally (1992)
The prehistoric thrill of Jurassic Park by Data East (1993)
The cosmic allure of Star Trek (Premium) by Stern (2013)
And the retro charm of Stars by Stern from way back in 1978.

Each machine brought its history, its legacy, and its unique challenge.

Venue Vibes

And speaking of history, Erik, buddy, where did this tournament magic happen? It’s a mystery we’d love to solve. Next time, drop a hint on MatchPlay, so we can rave about it!

The Pinball Titans

For those seeking inspiration, here’s a look at the top giants in the Wisconsin pinball realm:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Luke Nahorniak	Lonsdale	1265.26
2	Jared August	West Bloomfield Township	1165.17
3	Neil Graf	Appleton	1143.83
4	Escher Lefkoff		1050.05
5	Steven Bowden	Palatine	998.79
6	Jason Werdrick	Park Ridge	737.42
7	Zach McCarthy	Conifer	737.23
8	Erik Thoren (Our Organizer)	De Pere	721.13
9	David Daluga	Milwaukee	691.08
10	Jordan Dechaine		683.84

To all the pinball enthusiasts, whether you’re a seasoned pro, an up-and-coming star, or someone just getting to know the beauty of the game, remember: rankings are but numbers, and every game is a new chance to shine. Stay flippin’, and catch you at the next pinball showdown!

ifpa wisconsin

The Electric Bat Buzz: A Night of Pinball Prowess

Pinball enthusiasts flocked to the renowned Electric Bat Arcade on August 22, 2023, chasing victory, thrill, and of course, that sweet, sweet “ding” of high scores. The atmosphere? With a sultry 96°F outside, the inside of Electric Bat Arcade served as a refreshing oasis, clouds scattering above as players gathered beneath the neon lights, eager to test their mettle.

The Tournament: A Dive Into the Details

Organized by the skilled Rachel Bess, the Electric Bat Season 8 – Series 2 #3 tournament saw a staggering 109 players, all hungry for the crown. Grouped in teams of four, players zipped, zagged, flipped, and flopped through five intense rounds, each round offering them a chance to earn points and climb that leader board.

An AI’s Humorous Misfire

Highlighting one of the standout games of the tournament—Round 5—threw us for a loop. Here’s the laugh: we couldn’t pull the pinball machine details! So, what did the AI say when it couldn’t find the data? “Guess I tilted!” ?

Game Results:
- 1st: Adam Horton (IFPA rank 247)
- 2nd: Andy Olson (IFPA rank 934)
- 3rd: Kevin Burns AZ (IFPA rank 1581)
- 4th: James Bacon (IFPA rank 0)

Masterful Gameplay: The Top Dogs

Taking the crown was none other than Conrad Betti, hailing from Phoenix. Following closely were pinball wizards Gavin Bowman, Greg Davis (also a Phoenix native), and the ever-determined CJ Jensen.

Machines of Legacy

The tournament showcased a whopping 55 pinball machines, with some truly iconic ones that deserve a special shoutout:

Night Rider by Bally from 1976
Rush (Pro) by Stern from 2022
The fiery Firepower by Williams from 1980
Sinbad by Gottlieb, a 1978 classic
Hotdoggin’ by Bally from 1979
The ferocious Jurassic Park by Data East from 1993
My Son! Jack•Bot by Williams from 1995
The mighty Godzilla (Premium) by Stern
Black Knight: Sword of Rage (Pro) by Stern, released in 2019

Electric Bat Arcade: The Place to Be

Situated inside the Yucca Tap Room, the Electric Bat Arcade is the go-to spot for arcade aficionados. Packed with pinball games linked to Stern Online, leaderboards displayed high scores for all to see. The cherry on top? A separate bar, teeming with delightful concoctions, ensuring the fun never stops. If arcade games rev up your engines, this place is an unmissable pitstop!

Top of the Pack: IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points	Events Played	Wins
1	Roland Nadeau		596.74	20	8
2	Mark Pearson	Phoenix	517.29	20	15
3	John Shopple	Mesa	513.4	20	9
4	John Magyar	Gilbert	312.57	20	5
5	Paul Blanco	Chandler	299.6	20	6
6	Kevan Carter	Tempe	295.89	8	0
7	Jason Barre	Mesa	292.36	20	8
8	Joey Rio	Surprise	282	20	5
9	Adam Horton	Phoenix	276.82	20	1
10	Andrew Roesch		255.21	20	1

Signing Off

Another spellbinding tournament comes to a close, but the excitement of pinball never truly ends. Keep those flippers flipping, and as always, stay tuned for more pinball magic!

arizona ifpa

Belles & Chimes SATX – Summer 2023 #6

There’s something about the collision of steel with plastic, the clatter of the flippers, and the mesmerizing dance of lights that turns a mere game of pinball into an electrifying performance. And on August 22, 2023, the best in Texas came together for this performance, in the Belles & Chimes SATX – Summer 2023 #6 pinball tournament, orchestrated by the fantastic Christina Cheeseman.

From Family Fun to Fierce Competition: A Spotlight on The Addams Family

Round 5 proved why The Addams Family by Bally remains a timeless classic since its debut in 1992. Amanda Brawner from Austin showcased precision and strategy to clinch the top spot. However, organizer Christina Cheeseman wasn’t far behind, landing third and reminding everyone of her pinball prowess.

The Cream of the Pinball Crop

While the competition was fierce, four players stood out from the rest. Alice Young, with her incredible ball control and timing, claimed the throne. Not far behind, Amanda Brawner and Rebecca Salam showcased their unparalleled skills, securing second and third spots, respectively. Jovanna Barrientez, despite being a lesser-known name in the pinball circle, showed she’s not one to be underestimated.

A Journey Through Pinball History

The tournament’s machines offered a trip through the annals of pinball history. From the beachy vibes of Baywatch by Sega (1995) to the rush of Hot Wheels by American Pinball (2020), players were treated to a delightful mix. The thrilling chases in Taxi by Williams (1988) and the hauntingly fun gameplay of Ghostbusters (Pro) by Stern (2016) further added to the nostalgia.

Venue: A Mystery Awaiting

Christina, a tiny request for next time: Could we get a hint about the venue on MatchPlay? The suspense is almost as intense as a tight pinball game! We’d love to dive into the ambiance and history of the place.

Texas’ Pinball Maestros:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Jack Revnew	The Woodlands	489.96
2	Garrett Shahan	Denton	433.69
3	Phil Grimaldi	Houston	338.49
4	Wesley Johnson	College Station	317.44
5	Lee Balusek	Conroe	254.5
6	Fred Revnew	The Woodlands	248.59
7	Brian Krivonak	Corpus Christi	231.83
8	Collier Whitefield	San Antonio	210.19
9	Kevin Rodriguez	Denton	204.52
10	Gilbert Herrera	San Antonio	194.05

For the pinball aficionados out there, keep your flippers ready and your game strong. Till the next clatter of the ball, keep scoring and stay tuned for more tales from the pinball realm!

ifpa texas

Beers, Balls, and the Battle of the Flippers!

Ah, what could be better than the clinking of pinballs, the distant chatter of a bustling brewery, and the unmistakable aroma of BBQ wafting in from next door? The recent IFPA pinball tournament at Locavore Beer Works had it all, and more!

A Scorcher in Littleton

Littleton turned the heat up to 93°F and those scattered clouds. But let’s be honest, the real heat was inside the Locavore Beer Works, where 44 pinball pros and enthusiasts gathered to prove their mettle. Organized by Jason Smith, the competition saw players compete over a single round but with a whopping 4 games per round!

An Epic Saga on ‘Rush’

Ever wondered how long someone could remain glued to a pinball machine? Well, Kenny Laughlin, Adam Jordan, Elyza Brillantes, and Emily Unruh showed us just that. Engaged in a nail-biting duel on the Rush (Premium) by Stern, this game turned into an epic saga that lasted an astonishing 172 minutes. And, emerging from the shadows of flashing lights and electrifying soundtracks, Kenny clinched the top spot!

Machines That Made History

While Rush (Premium) stole the spotlight, there were other pinball heroes in the arena. Machines like James Bond 007 (LE), the mystic Elvira’s House of Horrors (Premium), the iconic Godzilla (Premium), the adrenaline-packed Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast, and the rock-themed Foo Fighters (Pro). These machines, each with their story and legacy, played host to the hopes and dreams of our players.

The Kings and Queens of the Arcade

After countless flipper flicks and strategic nudges, Kenny Laughlin, with just 7 IFPA events under their belt, took home the gold. Following closely were Alex Vanee, Nathan Hart, and Brian Wonderly. Their gameplay was not just about agility but also about the strategy, understanding of each machine, and the will to conquer.

Brews, BBQ, and Balls!

The venue, Locavore Beer Works, was an experience in itself. Apart from the sizzling competition, it was a haven for beer lovers, dart enthusiasts, and sports fans. Their blackberry Belgian wit was a treat, and the supposed 10% ABV Pina colada seltzer slushy became the talk of the day. A bit hard to believe it’s 10%, but hey, who’s arguing when it’s that delicious? And when you can order some fabulous BBQ online to satiate those hunger pangs? It’s a win-win!

Colorado’s Pinball Greats

To round things off, let’s give a nod to the IFPA Colorado Pinball Top 10:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Walt Wood	Englewood	503.78
2	Ryan Altermatt	Denver	232.91
3	Zach McCarthy	Conifer	193.11
4	Mark Abbott	Denver	122.02
5	Lewis Ritenour		117.74
6	David Johnson CO	Aurora	110.53
7	Mat Brundage	Denver	107.26
8	Daniel Anderson	Englewood	103.76
9	Donavan Stepp	Lakewood	103.49
10	Adam Lefkoff	Boulder	95.67

As the sun set and the neon lights of the machines dimmed, we left the venue with memories, scores to beat, and an eagerness for the next big pinball showdown. Keep those flippers ready and stay tuned for more pinball tales!

colorado ifpa

From Ales to Flippers: A Night of Pinball Glory at Heart State Brewing

In the heart of Ohio, where craft beer often flows as freely as the Ohio River, Heart State Brewing opened its doors on August 18, 2023, for a rendezvous of flippers, lights, and spectacular gameplay. Welcome to the Heart State August Tournament, an event that was as refreshing as the beers served at the venue.

A Tournament Brewed to Perfection

Crafted meticulously by organizer John Geiger, the tournament sported four tantalizing rounds with a single game per round. A group of 39 pinball wizards, each on a mission to be the ultimate champion, formed clusters of four to engage in pinball duels. Points were at stake, reputations were on the line, and at the end of the evening, only one could take the crown.

The Guardians’ Ultimate Challenge

Amidst the clang of metal and the flickering lights, one game stood out: a showdown on the “Guardians of the Galaxy” machine by Stern. Our hero, Brian Weisberg (IFPA rank 3054), displayed an uncanny knack for channeling Star-Lord’s charisma into his gameplay, taking first place. He was closely followed by J. Keith Jackson, Steve Szczepaniak, and Robert Bush—a motley crew of pinball aficionados that added a unique flair to Round 4.

The Unranked Underdog

While Tim Malloy took the tournament’s crown with an IFPA rank of 2540, the underdog story of the night was Mitchell Banks. Without an IFPA rank and appearing in zero IFPA events prior to this one, Mitchell snagged second place. To the pinball world, let it be known: Someone get this guy signed up for IFPA, stat!

Pinball and Pints: The Perfect Pair

With a lineup of 13 pinball machines that ranged from the suave “James Bond 007 (Pro)” to the raw intensity of “Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast,” the venue was a paradise for pinball enthusiasts. The selection of pinballs at Heart State was like its beer menu—each one offering a unique flavor yet universally delightful.

Heart State: The Heart of the Action

If you’re a fan of good beer and great company, Heart State Brewing is your go-to place. The owner’s inspiring story, the work he does with his dog rescue charity, and an array of brews that have no parallel—it all comes together to create an atmosphere where both beer lovers and pinball fans can find their nirvana.

Top Pinball Maestros in Ohio

To tip our hats to Ohio’s pinball elites, here’s the Top 10:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points	Events Played	Wins
1	Aaron Rich		554.91	20	21
2	Stephen Prusa	Cleveland	402.66	20	23
3	Carlos Delaserda	Columbus	364.55	20	7
4	John Delzoppo	Cleveland	355.27	20	8
5	Andrew Lee	Cleveland	299.48	20	5
6	Gregory Kennedy	Plain City	293	20	9
7	Jesse Baker	Cincinnati	276.04	20	22
8	Cody Webb	Westerville	242.82	20	5
9	Galvin Morgan	Olmsted Falls	238.97	20	6
10	Rod Lawrence	Cleveland	207.13	20	6

So, whether you’re a pinball pro or just a casual flipper, one thing is certain: Heart State Brewing is where you want to be for a night of unstoppable fun and action. Until the next tournament, keep those flippers flipping and those brews pouring!

Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!

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