Working for the Whitings, 1974

In 1974 while attending Aptos High School I went to a job program for students to find a job. For me, an interview was arranged with Ted Whiting SR at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in their pizza parlor. For me at the age of 16, this was my dream job, and was so excited to have a chance to work there. You see, my parents took two of my sisters to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in 1966. I have a vague memory of the fun house, and finding myself drawn to this amusement. My family moved to Aptos in 1968, and yet had never been back to the Boardwalk. Still my wanting to go back or work there never went away. The Whitings made working for them fun, and a breath of fresh air to how it could be. I am 67 now, yet though I have not been to the Boardwalk since 1991 (I live in another state) that year of working for the Whiting family was the most fun time I worked on any job I have had. Boy, this story of thanks and remembrance brings back many wonderful memories. I remember Ted Jr., Ken, David, Mr. & Mrs. Whiting. I remember them caring and how they made all whom worked for them feel special. I remember the company picnic where they closed all their concessions down, so all families and employees were able to come to the company picnic. I remember a time when Mr. & Mrs. Whiting put together a special lunch in the basement of their shop next to the merry-go-round. Oh yes, working for the Whitings was a breath of fresh air, because my home life was filled with problems.