FB, This is a rim that came with a used bike, I don't know how the hop worked it's way in either, but it is a rim that looks to have considerable life left in it. The excessive tension was the primary reason I posted as I thought it could be avoided with a better plan. I'll start backing off all of the spoke's tension and see where that goes.
furball, Once the tension is released we'll find out the rim's condition.
Thanks for the help.
Brad