Wildwood social media has been abuzz since yesterday afternoon, when Morey's Piers announced its decision to retire the popular Flitzer roller coaster (but not before honoring it with a farewell party on September 23).
This evening, in an open letter posted on its official website, the thought process behind the decision to remove the venerable coaster was explained.
You can read the entire message HERE. And please do!
A few thoughts from our end...
It's not surprising, given the age of the Flitzer (it was installed at Surfside Pier in 1983, but was built in 1969) that its operational lifespan has come to an end. Few rides of its size - or any other, really - make it to the 50-year mark. This isn't to say that it's not a sad occasion. The coaster's popularity has endured over the years, affording it the rare opportunity to become a ride beloved by several generations of riders.
What isn't surprising in the least is the care with which Morey's Piers has handled the announcement of the Flitzer's retirement, and the subsequent chance for the Morey family (literal and extended) to honor the many memories it afforded later this month. That's a really cool thing when you stop and think about it. In an age when it often feels like history is too easily disregarded and tossed away, this marks the third time that Morey's Piers has held a special event to give a cherished attraction a proper send-off (the Golden Nugget Mine Ride and Wipeout Slide were previously honored in 2009 and 2010, respectively).
Toward the end of the letter, there are a few interesting notes. The statement "recent social media posts are a reminder of just how many of our guests have been a part of this journey along the way," rings particularly true, in a number of ways. It again highlights the Flitzer's popularity and longevity, as well as the fact that Morey's Piers and the Wildwoods became synonymous entities long ago (Morey's will officially celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2019).
It's also a nod to one of the traits that makes visitors and fans of the Wildwoods so unique - their (re: YOUR) passion!
Whether it's lamenting the removal of a beloved attraction or the closing of a favorite restaurant, debating which motel is the best, or who serves up the best slice of pizza on the Boardwalk, there's never a shortage of opinions and, in all sincerity, we know that that stems from a place of love.
(It's one of the reasons why we do what we do!)
Lastly, well, we're all big fans and fun-seekers in the end, and as one big Wildwood community, we're always looking for the slightest clue as to what the Moreys are up to next.
Were some potential future plans alluded to in the letter? Be sure to read to the end, and judge for yourself!
- Al & the Wildwood 365 Team
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