The poolroom in Binghamton, NY closed today after 52 years of play. Ballbusters, formerly The Pocket Billiard Lounge, was shut down by the Binghamton Fire Marshall for code violations. We believe this to be permanent, because to bring it into code and correct the violations would cost thousands.
First opened in 1963, this room had about 30 4 1/2 x 9s, a 3 cushion 5 x 10 and a few bar boxes, a dart league, grill and bar. It hosted the New York State 9 Ball tournament for many years and many women's tournaments as well when Florence Fuller operated it.
Players that played in here at times, include Efren Reyes, Mike Segal, Mike Lebron, Danny Diliberto, Alan Hopkins, Willie Masconi, Earl Strickland, Corey Deuel, Ray Martin, Jim Rempe, Dennis Hatch, Karen Coor, Steve Mizerak....and the list goes on.
Can you believe Efren played in a $5. 9 ball race with the local guys? He plays the same speed for $5 as he does for $5000.
I saw many good money matches over the years. Some lasted throughout the night and well into the next day.
I know people will ask how Florence is doing, so I'll answer ahead of time; just fine as far as I know. I haven't seen her in months.
First opened in 1963, this room had about 30 4 1/2 x 9s, a 3 cushion 5 x 10 and a few bar boxes, a dart league, grill and bar. It hosted the New York State 9 Ball tournament for many years and many women's tournaments as well when Florence Fuller operated it.
Players that played in here at times, include Efren Reyes, Mike Segal, Mike Lebron, Danny Diliberto, Alan Hopkins, Willie Masconi, Earl Strickland, Corey Deuel, Ray Martin, Jim Rempe, Dennis Hatch, Karen Coor, Steve Mizerak....and the list goes on.
Can you believe Efren played in a $5. 9 ball race with the local guys? He plays the same speed for $5 as he does for $5000.
I saw many good money matches over the years. Some lasted throughout the night and well into the next day.
I know people will ask how Florence is doing, so I'll answer ahead of time; just fine as far as I know. I haven't seen her in months.