On a misty morning in De Pere, Wisconsin, as the thermometer hesitated at 48°F but felt more like a chilling 42°F, a different kind of frostiness was unfolding inside District 82 Pinball. The Super Series Event 5: Certified Main Event had set the stage for intense pinball combat.

The 12-Hour Odyssey

Kicking off at a brisk 9:00 AM on October 14, 2023, Erik Thoren, the mastermind behind District 82, had orchestrated a symphony of flippers and lights. Over 10 grueling rounds, 102 players vied for the top spots, and the spotlight of the day was truly stolen by the magnificent eight:

1. Max Senesac – A Top 10 player in Wisconsin with an IFPA rank of 115 and a vast experience of 248 IFPA Events.
2. Dave Stewart – Hailing from Seattle, Dave showcased why he’s a force to reckon with, boasting an IFPA rank of 64 and having competed in 748 IFPA Events.
3. Carlos Delaserda – With an IFPA rank of 13 and having participated in 442 IFPA Events, Carlos proved why he’s a titan in the pinball world.
4. Travis Murie – Holding the IFPA rank of 18 and having been part of 194 IFPA Events, Travis’s gameplay spoke louder than words.
5. Erik Thoren – Not just an organizer but also a player par excellence, Erik, with an IFPA rank of 54, has been a part of 377 IFPA Events.
6. Aaron Rich – Climbing the ranks with an IFPA rank of 62 and having 149 IFPA Events under his belt, Aaron truly shone.
7. Nate Grant – hailing from Pelzer, SC, Nate, with an IFPA rank of 56, has participated in 193 IFPA Events.
8. Luke Nahorniak – Wisconsin’s current pinball leader, holding an impressive IFPA rank of 5 and having been part of a massive 523 IFPA Events.

Monopoly: A Game of Time and Skill

In a jaw-dropping Quarterfinal on Stern’s Monopoly, the game extended for an incredible 100 minutes! Luke Nahorniak proved his mettle, followed by Aaron Rich, Matthew Richardson, and Ken Grant.

A Pinball Museum

District 82 isn’t just an arcade; it’s a treasure trove of pinball’s golden history, with machines like Doodle Bug, Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure, Star Trek by Bally, and many more, each with its own storied legacy.

Atmosphere: A Double-Edged Sword?

While District 82 Pinball’s website is awash with 5-star reviews, some find the challenging gameplay not to their liking. Yet, for a tournament of this scale, the settings seem apt.

Wisconsin’s Pinball Legends

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Luke Nahorniak	Lonsdale	1523.54
2	Jared August	West Bloomfield Township	1165.21
3	Steven Bowden	Palatine	1143.75
4	Neil Graf	Appleton	1143.64
5	Escher Lefkoff		1050.06
6	David Daluga	Milwaukee	892.83
7	Erik Thoren	De Pere	864.22
8	Jason Werdrick	Park Ridge	848.45
9	Carlos Delaserda	Columbus	771.31
10	Max Senesac	Cudahy	759.17

In the world of pinball, the game is more than just flippers and scores. It’s about passion, strategy, and the journey to the top. Keep the ball rolling, and stay tuned for more tales from the flipper-filled world!

When the temperature outside drops and the clouds hang heavy, pinball enthusiasts find solace in the shimmering lights, captivating soundtracks, and strategic gameplay that only a pinball machine can offer. And, the recent Flippin’ Friday 10/6 Qualify pinball tournament at District 82 Pinball was the epitome of such an event.

Setting the Stage

Hosted at the iconic District 82 Pinball in De Pere, Wisconsin on a cool October evening, 24 dedicated players arrived, ready to face off. Organized by the passionate Erik Thoren, the event saw players battle through 4 intense rounds, with each round comprising 2 nail-biting games.

An Ode to Dolly Parton

Round 2 had players rallying around the Dolly Parton pinball machine, a Bally classic celebrating its upcoming 45th anniversary. Released in November 1979, this machine boasts a 7-star rating, featuring a medley of flippers, pop bumpers, and unique targets. Dave Christensen’s art captures Dolly’s transition from country to pop, a shift reflected in her meticulous input on her pinball portrayal.

As scores skyrocketed, John Zalewski mastered Dolly’s playfield, claiming the top spot. Not far behind were Eddie Smith, Joe DeCleene, and Jacob Geurts. This round was a harmonious blend of nostalgia and competition, making the Dolly Parton machine the star of the evening.

The Unshakeable Champions

As flippers rested and the final tallies were counted, four players emerged as the undisputed masters of the night:

• Nathan Zalewski, showing finesse and skill, walked away with the gold.
• Gerald Morrison, demonstrating consistency and strategy, earned the second spot.
• Danny Bronny and Chris Gerwing followed, grabbing the third and fourth positions, respectively.

A Pinball Paradise

District 82, with a whopping total of 116 pinball machines, is truly a pinball enthusiast’s dream. Among the plethora of machines, some noteworthy ones include the thrilling Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines, the adventurous Jurassic Park, the mystical Lost World, and of course, the space opera Star Wars (Pro).

A Community Like No Other

One step into District 82 Pinball, and you immediately sense the camaraderie and passion. The venue isn’t just a place to play; it’s a haven where strategy meets fun, and where players, whether rookies or veterans, come together as a community. The atmosphere? Welcoming, energetic, and pulsating with excitement.

Wisconsin’s Pinball Titans

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Luke Nahorniak	Lonsdale	1265.34
2	Jared August	West Bloomfield Township	1165.22
3	Neil Graf	Appleton	1143.64
4	Escher Lefkoff	—	1050.06
5	Steven Bowden	Palatine	998.76
6	Erik Thoren	De Pere	741.03
7	Jason Werdrick	Park Ridge	737.45
8	Zach McCarthy	Conifer	737.25
9	David Daluga	Milwaukee	728.6
10	Jordan Dechaine	—	683.87

District 82’s Flippin’ Friday was more than just a tournament; it was a celebration of pinball, strategy, and the vibrant community. We eagerly anticipate the next showdown and, until then, keep those flippers flippin’!

As the golden hue of the evening sun danced on a clear sky, pinball enthusiasts gathered for the much-anticipated Flippin’ Friday 9/29 Qualify tournament. The venue? The iconic District 82 Pinball Arcade in De Pere, WI. A place where memories are made with every flipper hit and every bumper bounce.

Setting the Scene

On September 29, 2023, at 6:00 PM sharp, the first ball was launched. 29 players, 4 rounds, and a passion for pinball that could be felt in the air, partly charged by the balmy 68°F weather. Over the next 2 hours and a half hours, strategies were employed, rivalries forged, and pinballs ricocheted, all under the masterful organization of Erik Thoren.

Jungle Lord’s Wild Reign

In a standout game during the 4th round, players took on the challenge of the classic Jungle Lord by Williams. With an impressive rating of 8/10, Jungle Lord is a solid state electronic machine that dates back to February 1981. With a production run of 6,000 units, this fantasy-themed gem showcases the brilliance of designer Barry Oursler and the artistic flair of Constantino and Jeanine Mitchell.

What makes Jungle Lord particularly notable? Its gameplay is enriched with features like four flippers, various drop target banks, two kick-out holes, and the distinctive Magna-Save. Perhaps its most enchanting feature is the mini-bagatelle located in the upper playfield, which releases a ball every time one lands in the kick-out hole.

Adam VanDynHoven, hailing from Appleton Wi, showcased his skills on this captivating machine, snatching the top spot and leaving Michael Reiman, Peter Goeben, and the very director of the tournament, Erik Thoren, trailing behind.

And The Pinball Kings Are…

1. Andrew Kasten: With a dynamic gameplay style that left audiences in awe.
2. Tom Graf: The enigma from “PARTS UNKNOWN”, always consistent in his performance.
3. Matt McCarty: A seasoned player with a flair for the dramatic.
4. Adam VanDynHoven: The hero from the Jungle Lord round, proving he’s not just a one-game wonder.

Arcade Acclaims

District 82 boasted an astounding lineup of 116 pinball machines for the event. Highlights included the nostalgic Lost World by Bally, the speed-fueled Corvette, and the monstrous Monster Bash (Remake Special) by Chicago Gaming. Not to be overlooked were the intricate Ghostbusters (Premium) and the space saga of Star Wars by Data East.

A Love Letter to District 82

Words from a devoted fan capture the essence of District 82: “I couldn’t love and recommend this place more… Seriously though, I fly from NC several times a year to come here… D82 I love you!!!”

Wisconsin’s Best in Pinball:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Luke Nahorniak	Lonsdale	1265.27
2	Jared August	West Bloomfield Township	1165.19
3	Neil Graf	Appleton	1143.62
4	Escher Lefkoff		1050.04
5	Steven Bowden	Palatine	998.73
6	Erik Thoren	De Pere	741.01
7	Jason Werdrick	Park Ridge	737.43
8	Zach McCarthy	Conifer	737.24
9	David Daluga	Milwaukee	728.58
10	Jordan Dechaine		683.85

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From ricocheting balls to roaring applause, from masterful moves to near misses, the Flippin’ Friday tournament was an ode to the love of pinball. Until the next game, keep those flippers ready and stay tuned for more from the realm of pinball!

In the heart of Madison, beneath the overcast skies and amidst the gentle murmur of evening chatter, pinball enthusiasts descended upon the I/O Arcade Bar on September 27, 2023. The event? The much-anticipated Stern Army 2023 Monthly Pinball Tournament!

An Electric Venue with Vintage Vibes

The I/O Arcade Bar, with its glowing neon, vast selection of games, and the unmistakable buzz of flippers and bells, is arguably Madison’s best-kept gaming secret. It’s a retro gamer’s dream come true, boasting an array of pinball machines that beckon even the most casual player. And if you’ve spent hours there like I have, you’d know that the bar staff is just as amazing as the games themselves, ensuring a perfect gaming environment paired with delightful drinks.

An Array of Pinball Machines – From Classic to Contemporary

Among the 18 machines that glittered and beckoned, some notable ones include:

• Game Of Thrones (Pro) by Stern: Delve into Westeros and navigate the houses in this 2015 release.
• Venom (Pro) by Stern: Released in 2023, this game brings the thrilling world of the symbiotic anti-hero to life.
• Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern: Dive into the Upside Down in this game from 2019.
• Scooby-Doo (CE) by Spooky Pinball: Released in 2023, hop into the Mystery Machine and solve some spooky mysteries!
• Godzilla (Premium) by Stern: Battle monsters and save the city in this 2021 game!

The Game that Stole the Show

Jungle Queen by Gottlieb, a classic from 1977, witnessed a fierce competition during Round 2. Jeff Skelly topped the charts, with Mary Owen taking second place. Wyatt Capener and Karl Luhrs finished in third and fourth positions, respectively. It’s worth noting that for a game of such vintage, the competition was intensely modern.

The Cream of the Pinball Crop

When the final ball had been shot and scores tallied, here stood the champions:

1. Wyatt Capener: Hailing from Wisconsin, Wyatt’s dedication to the game has seen him participate in 75 IFPA Events.
2. Jeff Skelly: A close second with a whopping 92 IFPA Events under his belt.
3. Karl Luhrs: His consistency in the game earned him a respectable third place.
4. Mary Owen: A dark horse, with this being her debut IFPA Event!

Wisconsin’s Elite Pinballers

The IFPA Wisconsin standings post the event are:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Luke Nahorniak	Lonsdale	1265.29
2	Jared August	West Bloomfield Township	1165.2
3	Neil Graf	Appleton	1143.62
4	Escher Lefkoff		1050.05
5	Steven Bowden	Palatine	998.74
6	Erik Thoren	De Pere	741.01
7	Jason Werdrick	Park Ridge	737.43
8	Zach McCarthy	Conifer	737.24
9	David Daluga	Milwaukee	728.59
10	Jordan Dechaine		683.86

Until Next Flip

With memories of the night still fresh, the pinball community eagerly awaits the next showdown. Madison, with its fusion of classic and contemporary, is truly the place to be for pinball aficionados. Keep those flippers ready, and stay in the loop for more pinball tales and tournaments!

On a day where the clouds decided to make an appearance, with a comfortable temperature of 67°F, pinball enthusiasts from all over gathered at District 82 Pinball Arcade on September 26th, 2023. Starting at 6:00 PM, the tournament, meticulously organized by Erik Thoren, ran for an exhilarating 2 hours and 50 minutes.

A Tilt Back in Time

One of the standout games of the evening was a throwback to yesteryears. Celebrating its anniversary, the Mata Hari by Bally, a game that has it’s project date listed as September 26, 1977, had players battling fiercely in Round 3.

“Mata Hari” captures the enigma of its namesake, the exotic dancer and accused spy from the early 20th century, Margaretha Zelle. The game design, with elements like flippers, pop bumpers, drop targets, and a kick-out hole, takes players on a journey through the world of espionage, mystery, and dance. And while its gameplay offers a delightful throwback, the art by Dave Christensen, encapsulating the allure and intrigue of its central character, provides the perfect backdrop for fierce competition.

Back to the action, the Round 3 battle on “Mata Hari” was intense. Gerald Morrison, boasting a commendable International Flipper Pinball Association (IFPA) rank of 508, navigated the game’s challenges with finesse, securing a well-deserved first place. It was a thrilling display of skill and strategy, with Bob Brisk hot on his heels. Shawn McDonald and Tony Trofka also showcased their expertise, rounding out the top spots and making this round a highlight of the evening.

For many, this game served as a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminding players of the deep-rooted history and evolution of pinball. “Mata Hari” proved yet again that classics never fade; they just get better with age.

Masters of the Machine

The evening culminated in the crowning of the ultimate pinball wizards:

1. Nathan Zalewski with an IFPA rank of 271 showcased his skills and triumphed over the competition.
2. Mike Schlumpf from Green Bay followed closely with a seasoned experience of 274 events under their belt.
3. Tom Graf from the enigmatic PARTS UNKNOWN secured the third spot with an impressive 505 events experience.
4. Tom Schmidt from Neenah, Wisconsin rounded out the top four.

The Arcade’s Arsenal

District 82’s impressive collection of 114 pinball machines was at full display. Players found themselves navigating through:

• Hook – A journey back to Neverland.
• Star Wars (Pro) – A galactic battle of skill.
• Mystic – A magical dance of flippers and balls.
• Guardians of the Galaxy – Taking on the universe, one ball at a time.
• World Cup Soccer – Scoring more than just goals.

District 82 – The Mecca for Pinball Lovers

Located on O Keefe Road, District 82 Pinball Arcade is a gem for those in love with the game. Operating primarily from September to May, it offers various tournaments throughout the week, making it the go-to destination for pinball aficionados. The vast collection, well-maintained machines, and the friendly atmosphere make it a haven for both novices and pros.

The Sultans of Wisconsin Pinball

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Luke Nahorniak	Lonsdale	1265.3
2	Jared August	West Bloomfield Township	1165.19
3	Neil Graf	Appleton	1143.63
4	Escher Lefkoff		1050.03
5	Steven Bowden	Palatine	998.75
6	Erik Thoren	De Pere	741.02
7	Jason Werdrick	Park Ridge	737.44
8	Zach McCarthy	Conifer	737.24
9	David Daluga	Milwaukee	728.75
10	Jordan Dechaine		683.86

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As the flippers came to rest and the pinballs lay dormant, players left District 82 with smiles, stories, and scores to remember. The realm of pinball in Wisconsin is alive and well, and we can’t wait for the next flip-tastic event. Keep those flippers ready!

It was an evening of tantalizing drama and spectacular flipper finesse at District 82 Pinball’s Flipping Friday Tournament on September 22, 2023. As broken clouds hovered outside with a comfortable 74°F temperature, inside the arcade, it was nothing short of electrifying.

Fast Flips, Faster Decisions

The tournament was conducted in 4 rounds with 2 games per round. A total of 27 pinball aficionados competed, earning points based on their finishing positions. With a time limit of just over two and a half hours, players had to be fast with their flippers and faster with their decisions.

The Highlight Reel

In a surprising turn of events, Round 1 on the vintage Star Trek by Bally was a game to remember. Bret Derby from Appleton, WI, left everyone stunned with his IFPA rank of 1524, securing first place in the round. Tom Schmidt, and with a higher IFPA rank of 397, found themselves in fourth place, proving that in the world of pinball, rankings aren’t the end-all.

And the Flippers Go To…

Applause and kudos to the champions who maneuvered their way through the complex mazes and flashing lights:

1. Danny Bronny – Proving the power of experience, Danny with an IFPA rank of 450 emerged as the champion.
2. Tom Schmidt – They didn’t let their Round 1 setback keep them down, surging to a second-place finish.
3. Mark Hershey – His IFPA rank of 3491 didn’t hold him back from seizing third place.
4. Jim Heidemann – Consistent gameplay ensured Jim a spot in the top four.

Machines that Stole the Show

With a staggering 112 machines on hand, it was tough to choose favorites. Yet, some stood out:

1. Star Trek by Bally – A classic that can still draw a crowd.
2. The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern – Because who doesn’t like dodging zombies?
3. Dolly Parton by Bally – Bringing a bit of country glamour to the arcade.
4. Last Action Hero by Data East – A 90s nostalgia trip worth taking.
5. Harlem Globetrotters On Tour by Bally – Another classic that never goes out of style.

The Mecca of Pinball

District 82 isn’t just another arcade; it’s a pinball pilgrimage site. Known for its stunning collection of well-maintained, rare, and popular pinball machines, the venue attracts a wide range of talent—from locals to global pinball celebs.

IFPA Wisconsin Top 10

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Luke Nahorniak	Lonsdale	1265.28
2	Jared August	West Bloomfield Township	1165.19
3	Neil Graf	Appleton	1143.63
4	Escher Lefkoff		1050.04
5	Steven Bowden	Palatine	998.75
6	Erik Thoren	De Pere	737.83
7	Jason Werdrick	Park Ridge	737.44
8	Zach McCarthy	Conifer	737.24
9	David Daluga	Milwaukee	728.62
10	Jordan Dechaine		683.87

As we closed the evening, it was clear that rankings and statistics are just numbers. What really matters is the skill you bring to the flippers and how you adapt in the face of unpredictability. Keep an eye out for our next tournament; who knows, you might be the next pinball wizard to rise through the ranks!

Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of pinball!

In the heart of De Pere, Wisconsin, the rhythmic sound of silver balls careening off bumpers is more than just a pastime – it’s an institution. This was never more apparent than on the night of September 15, 2023, at 6:00 PM, when pinball enthusiasts gathered for the Flipping Friday’s Tournament at District 82 Pinball Arcade. With a gentle breeze, broken clouds, and a pleasant temperature of 72°F, it was the perfect setting for a high-octane showdown.

High Stakes on Dolly Parton

While every game at District 82 has its own story, Round 2’s competition on Dolly Parton by Bally, a gem from 1978, was the stuff of legends. In a gripping face-off, Erik Thoren, the maestro from District 82 Pinball itself, took the lead. Eric Strangeway from Oshkosh wasn’t far behind, with Gregory Hein and Joe DeCleene rounding out the top spots. It was a blend of strategy, timing, and perhaps a little bit of that Dolly magic.

Machines of Legacy and Lore

112 pinball machines were at the players’ disposal, ranging from classics to the more contemporary. “Harley Davidson” by Bally took riders on a thrilling road journey, while “Jurassic Park” by Data East promised prehistoric perils. The celestial adventures of “Guardians of the Galaxy” by Stern proved a hit, as did the high-flying antics on “Flight 2000” and the rock rhythms of “Metallica (Pro LED).” Whether it was the thrill of a car chase on “Corvette” or battling super villains on “X-Men Wolverine (LE),” there was never a dull moment.

Masterminds of the Pinball World

In the end, it was Eric Strangeway, with his experience of 400 IFPA events, who claimed the top spot. Close on his heels was Ryan Cappaert, with Erik Thoren, the man behind the magic of District 82, taking the third position.

The victory was sweet, but the thrill of the game and the camaraderie between players was the real prize. As the standings suggest, Wisconsin’s pinball scene is alive and well:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Luke Nahorniak	Lonsdale	1265.3
2	Jared August	West Bloomfield Township	1165.2
3	Neil Graf	Appleton	1143.64
4	Escher Lefkoff		1050.04
5	Steven Bowden	Palatine	998.8
6	Erik Thoren	De Pere	737.83
7	Jason Werdrick	Park Ridge	737.43
8	Zach McCarthy	Conifer	737.24
9	David Daluga	Milwaukee	728.78
10	Jordan Dechaine		683.86

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More Than Just a Game

Beyond the glitz and glamour of the tournament was the atmosphere of District 82 itself. Rows upon rows of machines, the glow of neon lights, and the unmistakable hum of electronics in the background. As the venue’s website aptly puts it: “It’s such a great place, tons of pinball machines. Never-ending fun!!”

With a memorable evening behind them, pinball enthusiasts left District 82, but not without the promise of returning soon. After all, in the realm of pinball, every game is a new adventure.

Stay flippin’ fabulous, and until the next update!

Ahoy, pinball enthusiasts! Let’s rewind to September 12, 2023. The air was crisp, and with just a few clouds hovering above, the atmosphere at District 82 Pinball was electric. Fans from across Wisconsin (and some from beyond) gathered to witness the spectacular Tilt’n Tuesday pinball tournament.

The Stage Was Set

Located in the heart of De Pere, District 82’s massive collection of 113 pinball machines were primed for the tournament. Organized by the renowned Erik Thoren, the tournament drew 67 players, all vying for the coveted top spot. The tournament went on for a thrilling 8 hours, but who’s counting when you’re immersed in a pinball galaxy?

Game On!

One of the many highlights of the evening was the intense face-off in Round 4 on Eight Ball Champ by Bally. This classic from 1985 saw Steve Fabry demonstrating why he’s a force to be reckoned with. Meanwhile, Shawn McDonald, Brian Leuthner, and Kel McBrair made sure to keep him on his toes. The action was intense, and the flippers never rested.

A Salute to the Champions

When the dust settled and the last ball drained, Nathan Zalewski emerged as the reigning champ, followed closely by Drew Geigel, Michael Reiman, and the man of the hour, Erik Thoren himself. Kudos to these pinball warriors for their stellar gameplay.

Pinball Spotlight

From the vast array of pinball machines, some notable ones were:

• Strikes and Spares – a nostalgic ride to 1978.
• Doodle Bug – an oldie but a goodie from 1971.
• The modern magnetism of Iron Man (Vault) and Deadpool (Pro) by Stern, from the years 2014 and 2018 respectively.
• And, No Fear: Dangerous Sports, a ‘90s gem.

More Than Just Pinball

As any regular will tell you, District 82 isn’t just a pinball arcade, it’s an experience. The ambiance is a solid 5-star, blending nostalgia with state-of-the-art setups. And while the games are all set for Tournament Play, it’s all part of the adrenaline-packed experience.

But here’s the catch: Intermediate players, you’ll notice the challenge levels are amped up with extreme table tilts and conservative settings. As the old adage goes, “It ain’t easy being a pinball wizard.”

Wisconsin’s Best

For those keeping score at home, here’s the latest IFPA Wisconsin Pinball Top 10 Standings:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Luke Nahorniak	Lonsdale	1265.33
2	Jared August	West Bloomfield Township	1165.21
3	Neil Graf	Appleton	1143.64
4	Escher Lefkoff		1050.04
5	Steven Bowden	Palatine	998.81
6	Jason Werdrick	Park Ridge	737.44
7	Zach McCarthy	Conifer	737.26
8	Erik Thoren	De Pere	732.12
9	David Daluga	Milwaukee	691.23
10	Jordan Dechaine		683.87

Final Thoughts

A massive shoutout to all participants and attendees. Pinball, at its heart, is a game of skill, strategy, and sometimes a smidgen of luck. And in Wisconsin, the passion for pinball burns brighter than ever. Until next time, keep those flippers flippin’ and stay tuned for more pinball updates!

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:

• Guardians of the Galaxy by Stern – A relatively new kid on the block from 2017.
• RollerCoaster Tycoon – Making us reminisce about the early 2000s.
• WWF Royal Rumble from Data East – Body-slamming its way from 1994.
• Dolly Parton by Bally – A country legend from 1978.
• F-14 Tomcat by Williams – A high-flying game from the late ’80s.

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:

Rank	Player Name	City	Wppr Points
1	Luke Nahorniak	Lonsdale	1265.37
2	Jared August	West Bloomfield Township	1165.25
3	Neil Graf	Appleton	1143.65
4	Escher Lefkoff		1050.09
5	Steven Bowden	Palatine	998.83
6	Jason Werdrick	Park Ridge	737.47
7	Zach McCarthy	Conifer	737.28
8	Erik Thoren	De Pere	732.17
9	David Daluga	Milwaukee	691.14
10	Jordan Dechaine		683.91

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.

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!