Billiards — Episodes — Chalk Is Cheap

EP 14: Tom George

On episode 14 of our Legends Series, we are joined by Tom George. Tom and Nick discuss why 3-cushion billiards was Tom’s game of choice, his family’s history in the Billiards business, how the way of life in Duluth, Minnesota was during the 1960s, and some great stories about the traveling hustlers of the era that found themselves looking for action in the Twin Ports. Tom tells a great story about his time spent in New York City in some high stakes games as well. This is one you do not want to miss!

Local Legends SeriesNick OlsonJuly 24, 2020Billiards, The Place Pool Hall, St. Louis BillliardsComment

EP 13: Mark Lachecki

On the 13th installment of our Twin Ports Legends Series Nick is joined by VNEA National Champion 8-Ball player Mark Lachecki. Mark and Nick talk a lot about handicapping in the current pool world as well as comparing it to the 1960s and 1970s. They talk about Mark's National Championship victory in Las Vegas and talk at length about his time as a BCA Certified Billiards instructor. Mark also describes his time discovering the game and playing at The Place Pool Hall in Duluth, MN.

Local Legends SeriesNick OlsonJuly 17, 2020VNEA, Billiards, The Place Pool Hall, 8-ball, BCA, Cue TecComment

EP 8: Jeff Schelin

On Episode eight, Nick is joined by local legend Jeff Schelin. Jeff and Nick talk about Top Hat Tavern, Jeff's days in the cue making business, his times at National Tournaments in Las Vegas, mental struggles juggling owning a business and playing the game at a high level and Jeff and Nick share stories about Billy Johnson, Irv Arseneau, and Gary Galiford.

Local Legends SeriesNick OlsonMay 23, 2020Billiards, Diamonds Billiards, Top Hat Tavern, VNEA, Top Hat CuesComment

EP 4: Scott Orville

On the second episode of Chalk is Cheap Twin Ports pool legend Mike Miller joins the show. Nick and Mike chat about Helen's Pool Hall in the 1970s, his infamous Assigned Team Tournament, and Mike fills us in on the 1980s 3-cushion billiard tournaments that finished with the finals at Glensheen Mansion in Duluth. Mike also lets us know why he all but gave up pocket pool.

EP 3: Sandy Vatalaro

On the third episode of Chalk is Cheap, former Minnesota State Pool Champion and local pool legend Sandy Vatalaro joins the show. Nick and Sandy talk about her beginnings in pool, including learning how to play the game from the legendary Willie Mosconi. She mentions that she has played leagues for 42 years straight and shares numerous stories about her time doing so. They also chat about her time tending bar and working for every pool hall in the Twin Ports since the mid 90's.

Local Legends SeriesNick OlsonApril 20, 2020Superior Trailblazers, 8-ball, VNEA, BilliardsComment

EP 2: Mike Miller

On the second episode of Chalk is Cheap Twin Ports pool legend Mike Miller joins the show. Nick and Mike chat about Helen's Pool Hall in the 1970s, his infamous Assigned Team Tournament, and Mike fills us in on the 1980s 3-cushion billiard tournaments that finished with the finals at Glensheen Mansion in Duluth. Mike also lets us know why he all but gave up pocket pool.

Local Legends SeriesNick OlsonApril 14, 20203 Cushion Billiards, Billiards, Helen's Pool Hall, ACSComment