originally posted on 3/5/2021
I am definitely looking at 2021 from a different perspective. This spring I feel like the world is slowly waking up from a long hibernation, and the gears of ACE need a little lubrication and extra push to get back to a full schedule of events with ACEers seeing one another in parks. That lubrication includes the goal to keep everyone safe with proper practices according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines.
Last year, while some locations opened up with limited capacity, others stayed shuttered. I applaud those that found unique ways to open up and celebrate safely in spite of the challenging environment. I celebrate everyone who got out and enjoyed rides and attractions while maintaining their healthy guidelines. Masking up in public spaces, along with maintaining social distancing in queues and on rides, has permitted the amusement industry to make many happy memories that will last forever.
But looking forward this year, I personally am unconvinced things will get back to normal very quickly. As an older adult, while eligible for a vaccine, getting an appointment scheduled has been a challenge. When I’m out in public, while I stay silent, I am extremely conscious of my personal vulnerability in public situations. I really don’t know how I’ll react to being within a large crowd again.
With all that, I’m still optimistic for a positive outcome to the situation. Things can only get better. Many of us have fallen into long-lasting safe habits, including masks in every car and entryway, keeping sanitizers and soaps handy and limiting social interactions to a bubble of acquaintances. It’s been hard to get to this place, but I hope that the end result is a safe reunion for all at some point in the future.
Stay safe. I hope to see you in a queue soon!
— Robert Ulrich, ACE President
@#$%&!
#ACENews