On a cool November evening in Roscoe, Illinois, with overcast skies and a temperature of 59°F, Louie’s Tap House became the epicenter of pinball excitement. The Stern Army- 3rd Thursdays @ Louie’s Tap House- November tournament, held on November 16, 2023, wasn’t just about flippers and silver balls; it was a celebration of community, skill, and the love for the game.

Louie’s Tap House: A Cozy Spot for Pinball Enthusiasts

Louie’s Tap House, located at 5689 Elevator Rd, is more than just a local watering hole; it’s a gathering place for pinball enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Despite a minor hiccup with a grilled chicken salad, the venue shines with its delicious French dip, homemade chips, coleslaw, and top-notch margaritas. The separate room for pinball, away from the bar area’s high-top seating and TV screens, offers a perfect blend of dining and gaming.

Round 1 Spotlight: Deadpool (Pro) by Stern

The tournament’s energy hit a high note right from Round 1 on Stern’s Deadpool (Pro). A modern classic released in 2018, this machine saw David Slaymaker from Rockford IL claim the top spot with an impressive display of skill. Close behind were Dan Kurowski, Joe Buchanan from Machesney Park, and David Hoskins from Illinois, each bringing their A-game to the tournament.

Celebrating the Pinball Wizards

The tournament saw intense competition across 5 rounds, culminating in a gripping final:

• 1st: Joe Buchanan from Machesney Park – A master tactician with a 270 points adjustment.
• 2nd: David Slaymaker from Rockford IL – A close contender with a 180 points adjustment.
• 3rd: Dan Kurowski – Showcasing strategic prowess with a 150 points adjustment.
• 4th: David Hoskins from Illinois – A solid player with a 170 points adjustment.

A Lineup of Legendary Pinball Machines

The event featured 11 pinball machines, each adding its unique charm:

• Spider-Man by Stern: Swinging into action with its vibrant gameplay.
• Godzilla (Premium) by Stern: A monstrous adventure on the pinball field.
• James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern: Bringing the world of espionage to life.
• Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern: A rock and roll journey with one of the greatest bands.
• Venom (Premium) by Stern: Capturing the essence of the iconic Marvel character.

A Night to Remember at Louie’s

As the tournament wrapped up, players and spectators left with stories of thrilling victories, friendly rivalries, and the shared love for pinball. The Stern Army- 3rd Thursdays @ Louie’s Tap House was more than just a tournament; it was an evening filled with joy, laughter, and the clinking sounds of pinball machines.

Bookmark us for more exciting updates from the realm of pinball, where every flip and tilt weaves a new tale!

On a crisp November afternoon, as overcast skies hovered at a cool 59°F, the vibrant atmosphere inside Louie’s Tap House in Roscoe, IL, was anything but gloomy. The stage was set for the Stern Army- Louie’s Silverball Sunday Monthly- November tournament, an event that brought together the local pinball community in a spirited showdown of flippers, lights, and high scores.

Louie’s Tap House: A Haven for Pinball and Gastronomy

Louie’s Tap House (visit website) isn’t just a regular pub; it’s a sanctuary for pinball enthusiasts. The venue boasts a welcoming vibe, with a separate room dedicated to pinball machines, ensuring the perfect blend of competitive spirit and casual dining. The highlight for many? The mouth-watering French dip with homemade chips and a margarita that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re there for the food, the drinks, or the pinball, Louie’s ensures a memorable experience.

The Heat of Competition

Organized by the adept Tom Menge, the tournament saw 15 players engage in a series of 7 nail-biting rounds. The contest culminated in a final round where the top 4 players faced off in an intense battle over 5 games.

Spotlight on Deadpool (Pro)

The opening round on Stern’s Deadpool (Pro) set the tone for the day. David Slaymaker from Rockford IL showcased his strategic prowess, taking the top spot. He was closely followed by Joe Buchanan from Machesney Park, with Nick Naruz and Vinnie Bologna putting up a commendable fight.

Celebrating the Victors

The tournament concluded with David Slaymaker reigning supreme, his consistent performance across the rounds earning him the top position. Vinnie Bologna, with his tactical plays, secured the second spot, while Joe Buchanan’s persistence landed him in third place. Nick Naruz’s solid performance throughout the tournament was enough to earn him a well-deserved fourth place.

A Walk Through Pinball’s Legacy

The event was graced by a lineup of classic and modern pinball machines:

• Space Invaders (1980) by Bally: A nostalgic trip to the space-themed pinball.
• Scooby-Doo (CE) (2023) by Spooky Pinball: Bringing everyone’s favorite mystery-solving gang to life.
• Foo Fighters (Premium) (2023) by Stern: A rock and roll adventure with one of the greatest bands.
• Godzilla (Premium) (2021) by Stern: A monstrous battle across the cityscape.
• Spider-Man (2007) by Stern: Swinging through the streets of New York in pinball style.

The Verdict

As players and spectators left Louie’s Tap House, there was a unanimous feeling of excitement for the next gathering. The Stern Army- Louie’s Silverball Sunday Monthly- November tournament was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of the community, camaraderie, and the enduring love for pinball.

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the realm of pinball!

On a chilly evening in Chicago, with overcast clouds painting the skies and temperatures dipping to 51°F, Logan Arcade at 2410 W Fullerton Ave hummed with life. Here, the city’s elite pinball players converged for the ‘Chicago Sunday Best Pinball League Season 5 #4’ tournament, organized by Mike Pantoliano.

The Venue:

For those unfamiliar with Logan Arcade, it is an emblem of nostalgia and present-day passion. Hosting an array of pinball machines that encompass the classics and the contemporaries, it is every pinball enthusiast’s dream. The venue promises an amazing selection, and reasonable prices to boot. Many, like myself, leave with a note to self: “Definitely returning when next in Chicago.” Learn more about their offerings at Logan Arcade.

In the Game Spotlight:

Of the night’s pulsating matches, one stood out not just for its competitiveness but for its sheer duration. A game on ‘Robocop‘ by Data East, which lasted almost as long as the Robocop movie itself. Clocking in at 80 minutes, players Andrew Wilkening, Kevin Kolodziej, Natalie Nonos, and Alex Lecky battled fiercely, with Andrew emerging victorious.

Tournament Machines of Note:

Out of the 25 pinball machines present:

• ‘Taxi by Williams’ took many on a nostalgic trip to the ’80s.
• ‘Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming’ and ‘Foo Fighters (Premium) by Stern’, both released in 2023, showcased how the game has evolved over the years.
• ‘Doctor Who by Bally’ and ‘The Addams Family by Bally’ are classics that need no introduction.
• ‘Robocop by Data East’, given its starring role in the night’s proceedings, had its legacy further cemented.

The Night’s Winners:

Mike Pantoliano, the event’s organizer, showed everyone how it’s done by clinching the top spot. Following him were Rachel Karlic, Emily Sweeney, and Jane Verwys, showcasing the talent and skill that Chicago’s pinball scene possesses.

Illinois’ Best Pinballers:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Andy Bagwell	Elgin	370.86
2	Raymond Davidson	Elk Grove Village	222.12
3	John Miller MO	St. Louis	198.85
4	Ryan McQuaid		191.17
5	Chuck Sanderson		180.45
6	Steven Bowden	Palatine	163.42
7	Alex Lecky	Chicago	162.84
8	Stephen Chappell	Ferguson	154.64
9	Bob Twichell	Oaklawn	140.41
10	Andrew Wilkening	Chicago	139.23

While the night celebrated individual skill, it also showcased the tight-knit and passionate community of pinball enthusiasts in Chicago. As the games ended and players dispersed, one thing was clear: The realm of pinball is alive and thriving, and we can’t wait to bring you more updates from this electrifying world!

Ah, the pinball scene in Roscoe, Illinois—where the tinkle of the chimes meets the cheers of triumph. It was on the 21st of September, a chilly evening with overcast clouds, that the 3rd Thursdays @ Louie’s Tap House Pinball Tournament unfurled its flippers.

The Stage Was Set

Hosted at Louie’s Tap House on Elevator Rd and coordinated by Tom Menge, the tournament set out to find the best among the 8 pinball wizards in attendance. With a crisp three-and-a-half-hour runtime and six tense rounds, it promised fierce competition.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You?—In Round 3!

One game that no one can stop talking about took place on Scooby-Doo (CE) by Spooky Pinball. In a surprising twist, David Slaymaker, a participant with zero IFPA ranking and zero events under his belt, took the game by storm. The more seasoned players like Vinnie Bologna, Tom Menge, and Shane Shadden had to accept defeat in that round. A classic Scooby-Doo mystery—how did the underdog come out on top?

Heck, someone needs to sign this “Slaymaker” up for IFPA; he’s going around winning tournaments like it’s his day job!

The Titans and the Newcomer

The overall winners of the night were as intriguing as the games they conquered:

1. David Slaymaker – IFPA rank 0: The mysterious newcomer who proved rankings aren’t everything.
2. Trae Vance – IFPA rank 3201: Experience paid off for Vance, whose performance was anything but average.
3. Shane Shadden – IFPA rank 5038: Despite losing to Slaymaker, Shane proved why he keeps coming back to the game.
4. Vinnie Bologna – IFPA rank 6989: Another seasoned player who had to bow to the might of the newcomer but still secured a place in the top four.

Pinball Corner

Louie’s had no shortage of games to offer. The evening featured a robust line-up of 11 pinball machines, including:

• Foo Fighters (Premium): A rocking start to any game.
• Metallica (LE): A game that hit all the right notes.
• Spider-Man: A game that had you feeling like Peter Parker.
• James Bond 007 (Premium): Classy, challenging, a true Bond experience.
• Godzilla (Premium): Crushing cities and the competition alike.

Where Food and Pinball Meet

The Louie’s Tap House experience isn’t just about pinball—it’s also about the atmosphere and, of course, the food. I indulged in a savory French dip that was marred only slightly by the odd piece of fat. The homemade chips and coleslaw were delicious add-ons. And let’s not forget the fantastic margaritas!

Top Guns of Illinois

To put the night into perspective, here are the IFPA Illinois Top 10 rankings:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Andy Bagwell	Elgin	352.66
2	Raymond Davidson	Elk Grove Village	222.11
3	John Miller MO	St. Louis	184.42
4	Ryan McQuaid		179.12
5	Chuck Sanderson		169.23
6	Steven Bowden	Palatine	160.65
7	Alex Lecky	Chicago	152.87
8	Stephen Chappell	Ferguson	143.42
9	Bob Twichell	Oaklawn	137.55
10	Mike Pantoliano	Seattle	130.1

This night at Louie’s Tap House was a reminder of the unpredictable, captivating nature of pinball—a night where an underdog could become a champion. Until next month’s showdown, keep those flippers flipping!

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:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Andy Bagwell	Elgin	352.67
2	Raymond Davidson	Elk Grove Village	222.11
3	John Miller MO	St. Louis	184.42
4	Ryan McQuaid		179.12
5	Chuck Sanderson		169.23
6	Steven Bowden	Palatine	160.65
7	Alex Lecky	Chicago	151.11
8	Stephen Chappell	Ferguson	143.42
9	Bob Twichell	Oaklawn	137.55
10	Mike Pantoliano	Seattle	130.09

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!

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:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Andy Bagwell	Elgin	352.66
2	Raymond Davidson	Elk Grove Village	222.11
3	John Miller MO	St. Louis	184.42
4	Ryan McQuaid		179.12
5	Chuck Sanderson		169.23
6	Steven Bowden	Palatine	160.65
7	Alex Lecky	Chicago	151.11
8	Stephen Chappell	Ferguson	143.42
9	Bob Twichell	Oaklawn	137.55
10	Mike Pantoliano	Seattle	130.1

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!

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

White Water Rages!

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

The Pantheon of Pinball Champions

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

Machines of Glory

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

Logan Arcade: The Mecca of Pinball in Chicago

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

The Best of Illinois

The IFPA Illinois Top 10 Standings were as follows:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Andy Bagwell	Elgin	352.67
2	Raymond Davidson	Elk Grove Village	222.12
3	John Miller MO	St. Louis	184.42
4	Chuck Sanderson		169.23
5	Ryan McQuaid		163.06
6	Steven Bowden	Palatine	160.65
7	Alex Lecky	Chicago	151.11
8	Stephen Chappell	Ferguson	143.42
9	Bob Twichell	Oaklawn	135.69
10	Mike Pantoliano	Seattle	130.1

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

On the evening of August 17, 2023, as the sun dipped below the horizon, the dazzling neon lights of Louie’s Tap House in Roscoe, IL, were just beginning to shine. This wasn’t just any evening at Louie’s—it was the “Stern Army- 3rd Thursdays @ Louie’s Tap House” pinball tournament, a fusion of strategy, skill, and silver balls, all orchestrated by Tom Menge.

An Evening at Louie’s Tap House

Tucked away on 5689 Elevator Rd, Louie’s is more than just a taphouse. With a wide variety of beers both on tap and canned, it serves as a welcoming beacon for both casual visitors and pinball enthusiasts alike. Visitors often rave about the mouth-watering cheese curds—considered by many as the best in a long while. And if pinball isn’t your thing (though, after this night, it might be), Louie’s offers a refreshing round of mini-golf or a fun-filled volleyball game. Trust me, their website alone (Louie’s Tap House) will have you planning a visit!

A ‘Monster’ of a Round

Round 1 set the mood for the evening as four competitors faced off on Godzilla (Premium) by Stern—a machine as fierce as its namesake. It was a beast of a game, but Tom Menge, the organizer himself, came out on top, proving that sometimes, the creators are the best players. He was closely followed by Josh Hanford, Shane Shadden, and Joe Buchanan.

Pinball Royalty on Display

The tournament showcased a stellar lineup of pinball machines that would make any enthusiast’s heart race. From the thrill-packed adventures of Spider-Man and James Bond 007 (Premium) to the rhythmic beats of Foo Fighters (Premium), there was a game for every taste. A notable mention goes to the Scooby-Doo (CE) by Spooky Pinball—a recent 2023 release that has already become a hot favorite among players.

Master of the Machines

The champions of the night were a blend of seasoned pros and rising stars. Tom Menge, displaying skill and strategy, clinched the top spot. He was trailed by Josh Hanford, Shane Shadden, and Joe Buchanan—each leaving their mark on the tournament.

Illinois’ Pinball Pros

As the echoes of the flippers faded, the leaderboard of Illinois’ best pinballers was a testament to the state’s rich pinball culture:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Andy Bagwell	Elgin	352.66
2	Raymond Davidson	Elk Grove Village	222.11
3	John Miller MO	St. Louis	184.42
4	Ryan McQuaid		179.1
5	Chuck Sanderson		169.23
6	Steven Bowden	Palatine	160.65
7	Alex Lecky	Chicago	151.11
8	Stephen Chappell	Ferguson	143.42
9	Bob Twichell	Oaklawn	137.55
10	Mike Pantoliano	Seattle	130.1

So, the next time you’re in Roscoe, IL, and feel the itch to try your hand at some pinball, remember the electrifying evening at Louie’s Tap House. But until then, keep those flippers flipping and stay tuned for more updates from the dazzling realm of pinball!

The Scene at Logan Arcade

On a warm August night in Chicago, the luminous glow of pinball machines illuminated the nostalgic interiors of Logan Arcade. Located at 2410 W Fullerton Ave, Logan is the kind of place where the old meets the new, and the echoes of the past meld with the vibrant energy of the present. And on this particular night, August 13th, 2023, it was the battleground for the Chicago Sunday Best Pinball League Season 5 #1. Organized by Mike Pantoliano, this spectacle saw 43 players locked in frenzied competition, flipping, tilting, and aiming for victory.

Riding the Rapids of White Water

Let’s talk about stamina and determination for a moment. In Round 2, pinball enthusiasts were treated to the longest game of the night, a whopping 90-minute showdown on the iconic White Water machine by Williams. Alex Lecky, with an impressive IFPA rank of 456, clinched first place. But the spotlight wasn’t solely his; Chris Ecker, Bob Twichell, and the event organizer himself, Mike Pantoliano, gave the crowds a game to remember.

Victory Rolls and Celebrations

The top honor of the night went to the underdog Ryan Blanchard, proving once again that in pinball, the tides can turn at any moment. Following him were the formidable Andrew Wilkening and Scott Green, both hailing from Chicago. Poe Masoud, another surprise in the rankings, secured the fourth place, emphasizing that on the pinball battleground, anything is possible.

The Machines That Make the Magic

Logan Arcade boasted a collection of 33 machines, ranging from the latest hits to vintage classics. Stern’s recent release James Bond 007 (Premium) sat next to beloved classics like Theatre of Magic by Bally. Whether it was the flashy animations of Deadpool (Premium) or the haunting allure of Elvira’s House of Horrors, there was a pinball machine for every taste.

A Venue Like No Other

This isn’t just any arcade; it’s Logan Arcade. Its dimmed lights, vintage wood floors, and unbeatable ambiance make it feel like a scene straight out of a movie. Pair that with an incredibly friendly staff, and you’ve got yourself a pinball haven. If you’re ever in Chicago, this place is a must-visit!

The Best in Illinois

And now, a special mention to the crème de la crème of the Illinois Pinball world:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points	Events Played	Wins
1	Andy Bagwell	Elgin	352.67	20	9
2	Raymond Davidson	Elk Grove Village	222.12	8	4
3	John Miller MO	St. Louis	184.42	10	3
4	Chuck Sanderson		169.23	13	3
5	Ryan McQuaid		163.06	11	1
6	Steven Bowden	Palatine	160.65	9	2
7	Alex Lecky	Chicago	151.1	20	3
8	Stephen Chappell	Ferguson	143.42	13	3
9	Bob Twichell	Oaklawn	135.69	20	2
10	Mike Pantoliano	Seattle	130.1	15	2

So, the next time you hear the clang of a pinball, think of the battles, the strategies, and the sheer passion that goes into every game. Until the next update, keep flipping and never tilt!