ACE Day at the California State Fair, 2009

ACE members pose for a group photo before starting ERT on the Pole Position spinning coaster. Not pictured: Leonard Gottlieb.

ACE Northern California continued our annual tradition of spending a special day at the California State Fair this year with a new twist. This year marked the first time for Butler Amusements to provide the big midway for the fair. Despite being understandably busy with the challenge of operating the state fair’s midway for the first time, Butler was exceptionally gracious to roll out the welcome mat for ACE.

The day started off with Butler’s Michael Gorman presenting each of us with a souvenir welcome packet. Then he led us on a fascinating behind-the-scenes tour. ACE member Richard Tuck served as co-host on the tour. After some delightful suprises, we were ready for some good, old-fashioned ACE ERT on the Pole Position spinning coaster and the Olympic Bobsled coaster. The tour and the ERT were provided for ACE members free of charge, courtesy of the kindness and generosity of Butler Amusements. Following ERT, attendees scattered in all directions to enjoy the rest of the day at the fair on their own.

Extra special thanks go to Michael Gorman of Butler Amusements and the rest of the Butler team. Extra special thanks also go to ACE member Richard Tuck. Thanks for a wonderful time!

More photos:

Butler Amusements welcomes ACE!

ACE members are seen here during the Butler Amusements behind-the-scenes tour.

ACE members enjoy ERT on the Olympic Bobsled coaster.

— photos: Steven Wilson