originally posted on 7/28/2025
Photo: Jill Ryan. View full-sized image.
This year, the Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, Inc. Manufacturer's Award (Spirit of ACE Award) deservedly goes to Cheri Armstrong, a person who truly embodies the “spirit of ACE” through her years of dedicated service to the organization's mission and to its betterment.
Unlike many of us, Cheri didn't start out as a coaster fanatic. Her passion ignited in college after meeting her future husband, Bob Armstrong, an avid enthusiast. One of their first dates, a trip to Cedar Point, sealed the deal. Cheri was hooked, and they eventually married. In 1994, they discovered ACE and became members. Over the years, their travels led them to become among the first ACE members to ride every single wooden coaster in North America — an impressive feat considering it included coasters in Mexico and even far-off Nova Scotia, Canada, at the time. Their adventures didn't stop there; they were frequently seen on international trips hosted by ACE, European Coaster Club and other organizations, accumulating credits across the globe. Sadly, Bob passed away in 2018, but Cheri continues to travel, always seeking new wooden coasters to maintain her remarkable North American record.
Cheri's commitment to ACE included volunteering. In 2012, she joined the Executive Committee as treasurer. The following year brought significant changes, with a new association manager, new accounting software, a new bookkeeping system and new bank accounts. Cheri's accounting expertise proved invaluable, ensuring a relatively smooth transition during this period of change.
After her tenure as treasurer, Cheri successfully ran for secretary, serving one term. When it became clear the current treasurer wasn't seeking re-election, she stepped up again, serving two more terms before retiring from the Executive Committee in 2022. During many of those years, Cheri was a familiar and welcoming face at ACE's booth at several IAAPA Expos.
Beyond her committee work, Cheri was a vital asset to international trip planners for many of ACE's global excursions. She assisted with everything from hotel reservations and international payments to flight arrangements, swag packing and serving as a coach captain. Most recently, she took the lead as the international trip planner for the 2024 Journey to Central Europe and has stepped up once again to oversee the 2026 trip to Italy.
Cheri Armstrong's unwavering commitment has had a profound impact on ACE. From her early days as a newfound enthusiast alongside her late husband, Bob, to her instrumental roles on the Executive Committee and as an international trip planner, Cheri has consistently demonstrated the dedication and passion that are the hallmarks of the ACE community. Her tireless efforts have not only helped shape the organization but have also inspired countless members. Cheri's legacy is one of service, adventure and an enduring love for roller coasters, making her a most deserving recipient of the Spirit of ACE Award.
— Jeffrey Seifert
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