By Daily Press Staff
SM PIER Realizing that the iconic Ferris wheel at Pacific Park has been a source of so many fond memories for visitors, staff there decided to give people a forum to express themselves.
Instead of posting notes on the wheel itself, or visiting Pacific Park offices to relay stories of new-found love and friendship, those who wish to reminisce can do so online, posting their thoughts on a message board at www.pacpark.com.
Pacific Park is replacing the current, solar-powered Ferris wheel with an all-new, $1.5 million contemporary one beginning May 5. The project is expected to be completed by May 22.
“The Pacific Wheel has been a great source of pride for Santa Monicans so we wanted to create a comprehensive memory book of experiences and photos,” says Jeff Klocke, director of marketing and sales at Pacific Park. “Guests will stop by our offices, call or e-mail to share stories about milestone celebrations relating to the Pacific Wheel. Now there’s a formal community forum for sharing those moments.”
A guest recently posted a letter at the entrance to the Pacific Wheel, which read: “Dear Santa Monica Pier Pacific Wheel, Several years ago, my boyfriend and I came and rode on you. It was our first date. We were both nervous. We didn’t know where this would go.
“Neither he nor I had much money as we were both unemployed, but after buying me a wonderful dinner, he made sure that he had enough money for one ride at the Santa Monica Pier. We chose to ride you.
“The line was long and filled with loud, jostling teenagers; but we could hear, feel, and see nothing but each other.
“We got in the gondola, and began the steep climb up to the top. The view was gorgeous. The sun was setting over the ocean and the sky was aflame. You stopped with us near the top and we could see forever.
“We began to kiss, and didn’t notice when the gondola began to move again. We still laugh about that.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on April 2, 2008. Read the original PDF.