Zippin Pippin opens to the public

GREEN BAY - With the cutting of the ribbon at Bay Beach Amusement Park , the Zippin Pippin is officially open to the public.

Mayor Jim Schmitt held a contest to select the first riders on opening day. Thirty winners and their guests received a special pass, and an inaugural coin to mark the occasion.

"I'm actually a little more scared than excited," said Dia Yang, 10, before the ride.

But more importantly, the first passengers got bragging rights to say they were among the first around the coast track.

"It's super. It goes fast. Got a little surprise at the end. it's just great," exclaimed one early rider.

"It's awesome. This is just a great new ride for Bay Beach, it strengthens the whole park," said Schmitt.

The history of the Zippin Pippin comes to Green Bay from Memphis, Tenn., where Elvis Presley had said the wooden coaster was his favorite too. The ride was shut down in 2005 and only resurrected when sold and recreated in Green Bay. A representative from Shelby County, Tenn. made the trip to proclaim it Zippin Pippin Day and show his appreciation to the city that kept history alive.

"In the words of Memphis' own Elvis Presley, 'Thank you, thank you very much'," Shelby County Commissioner Steve Mulroy said, impersonating Presley.

Those without special passes waited in line for their turn to take on Bay Beach's latest thrill.

"The up and down feeling like at the top of the hill where you feel like you're going to pop out of the seat, that's where the thrill is," explained Randy Lucassen.

The ride costs $1, with tickets going fast on opening day. And riders were giving the family-fun coaster high marks.

" I thought it was amazing, better than the ones at Disney," said Brett Lucassen, who rode with his dad.

The Zippin Pippin will be open for riders during regular Bay Beach Amusement Park hours.