originally posted on 5/10/2019
I am always thankful for any opportunities my ACE membership provides during the year. This becomes very interesting during the spring as I have to decide which activities I want to do out of a list that includes events, openings, media previews and more. This year I had to decide between many conflicting events, but for ones that did not make the cut, I immediately made plans to enjoy them later in the year.
Our host parks graciously extend invitations and hold enthusiast events for what I realize is a minority of their customers. I am very grateful that they invite us to enjoy their parks in unique ways. They schedule staff and activities to cater to our interests, and I appreciate them listening and responding in friendly ways. These venues could just simply open their gates to ACEers as they would to any other customer, but instead they choose to provide VIP treatment exclusively to us.
And I know I am not entitled to any of this — it’s something that the parks have chosen to participate in. I always try to thank members of the staff for being there for us. I say, “Good morning” and “Thank you for being here” upon arrival and “Thanks for staying with us” when we leave. I am continuously appreciative of any special features or souvenirs that are provided. There is nothing that I expect to receive from these partners, and anything offered is always graciously received.
Remember that when you attend events and visit amusement parks throughout the year to thank all the people giving you the opportunity to enjoy their attractions. Were it not for the ride operators, there would not be coasters to ride. And while they may not be official members, they are all a part of your ACE family and should be treated as such.
See you in the queue.
Robert Ulrich
rulrich@aceonline.org
@#$%&!
#ACENews