[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 86 (Friday, May 17, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H3344]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    MARKING GIANT DIPPER CENTENNIAL

  (Mr. PANETTA asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. PANETTA. Madam Speaker, today is the 100th anniversary of the 
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk's iconic roller coaster, the Giant Dipper.
  This amazing roller coaster opened on this day in 1924 and took only 
47 days to construct, making it the fourth oldest roller coaster in the 
United States and one of the 10 oldest roller coasters in the world.
  Despite its age, it still packs a punch. Starting off by racing 
through a pitch-black mine shaft of a tunnel, then popping outside and 
clinking and clacking up a steep incline. After reaching its peak 
point, the coaster plunges straight down and provides a ride that races 
up and down its wooden brace tracks, lifting you up and down out of 
your seats.
  Just like any good roller coaster, it is a ride that can turn your 
stomach. No matter how you feel, the Giant Dipper is exhilarating. It 
is exciting, and it is just plain fun.
  It is no wonder that more than 68 million people have taken this 
thrill ride. It is no wonder that the Giant Dipper is recognized as a 
National Historic Landmark.
  Happy 100th birthday to this famed roller coaster, and 
congratulations to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. I honor the Giant 
Dipper for providing a fun and exciting ride that has provided 
generations of families with fun and fulfilling memories.

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