(Thanks to GP for the photos, taken on May 13, 2006, and this report)
Deconstruction of 'Stuckeybowl'
(Thanks to GP for the photos, taken on May 13, 2006, and this report)
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On Saturday, May 13,2006 I met with some friends for the annual expEDition.  I wasn't sure I wanted to go, as I was about to see for the very last time what was left standing of Stuckeybowl. That building and all that was associated with it meant so much to me for
the past 6 years since it first came into my life. Yet, it was mostly demolished and within a week it would be no more.  So, I decided to face my fear of seeing it in such a sad state and make the 90 minute trek.  I first met with the small group that attended this year in Tappan where they had been walking around the streets that had been used in many episodes of "ED".

They soon headed for Hennessy's, next door to Stuckeybowl. It literally was next door as the hardware building that had been between the two had already been demolished.  I had been inside the building many times over the years and passed it even more times.  It was extremely sad to see it being torn down and I wanted to cry.  We walked over and said our goodbyes to the building.  One fan left some yellow roses behind and we fondly joked that the police outline of a body in the parking lot was a fan trying to unsuccessfully save the building. We took some rocks from the walkway as one last piece of the building to add to our collections.  Later, we drove by some of the sites that were used in the show's filming, both Ed's and Mike's houses, the church where the circus wedding was and a few storefronts used.  I had seen most of them the year before at the first expEDition but it was nice to see them again.

Eventually, we went back to the hotel where some of the people were staying that had flown or driven in for the event. By then, I was emotionally spent and physically tired.  I hung out while we waited for another fan, who lived in the area, to stop by and say hello. When he left I made the decision to leave too. Those remaining were headed for the 76 House, a restaurant used in the show.  I didn't think I could handle anymore emotions and I had to still drive home so I left. 

All in all, it was a nice day.  A chance to meet with some friends and relive memories of a wonderful show. Also, a chance to say goodbye to an old friend, that crazy, beautiful, dumpy old bowling alley that I love.