by Richard Garcia // Staff Writer
After 47 years of entertainment, the Fun Factory, Redondo Beach Pier’s premiere arcade finally closed its doors. Sunday, October 13th was its final day of operation, leaving longtime fans in disbelief.
“It was one of those places that I thought would be there forever” Replied Mr. Farbman, Carson High School’s Onsite Information Technology Specialist. “Even the first time they said they would close it down I was like a little nervous, but then they said they were gonna like, put that off, and I was like ok cool it’s still here.”
The city of Redondo ended up buying out the arcade, a decision costing them $9 million dollars. “I’ve been fighting with the City of Redondo for almost 50 years, and I’m just tired. It’s sort of like — you raise your daughter, she’s leaving home and it comes that time where you just say ‘hey, have fun!’ That’s where I am” replied Steve Shoemaker, owner of the Fun Factory in an interview with Easy Reader News.
Shoemaker spent the last day of the arcade asking anyone to make him an offer, willing to sell everything within the arcade, From the machines to the signs, and even the various prizes left over. He also plans to auction everything left on the 9th and 10th of November.
As of now, the City has no plans for the vacant space, leaving locals and loyal fans to speculate, and to hope that the city will find a suitable replacement for this long loved attraction.
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