Cedar Point mask policy faces opposition

SANDUSKY — Cedar Point could face an uphill battle convincing guests to wear face masks as it prepares to reopen. The park had to delay the opening of what should have been the 150th season earlier this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Gov. Mike DeWine green-lit the reopening of amusement parks after Cedar Point's parent company, Cedar Fair, submitted plans, which included health screenings, a reservation system to reduce capacity and mandatory face coverings for guests and associates. "We've implemented new safety protocols throughout the property that align with the recommendations of health and safety experts," said Jason McClure, Cedar Point's vice president and general manager, in a post on the park's website. "With that guidance, we're ready and excited to welcome our guests and associates back to Cedar Point." The CDC recommends people wear cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus. It notes face coverings protect the people around the mask wearer, which is essential since people can have the virus without showing symptoms. "For the general wellbeing of our guests and associates in the current environment, face coverings are required to be worn by anyone 2 years and older in all areas of the park, unless otherwise designated," Cedar Point spokesman Tony Clark said. But many people voiced their displeasure online about Cedar Point's mandatory face-covering policy: • "We will not be going this year! Sorry, but when you work in healthcare, the last thing you want to do on vacation is wear a mask," Lilly Stamper posted on Cedar Point's Facebook post announcing the opening date. • "I guess we won't be visiting this season … I do not agree and will never agree with mandatory masks … especially in the summer heat," wrote Kimberly Evans-Mann on the post. • "Won't be wasting my money and wearing a mask when it's 90 degrees out, ridiculous. You need to say 'come at your own risk,' folks who don't wanna come can stay home," Fred Paulsen posted. Cedar Fair's other Ohio park, Kings Island, in Warren County between Cincinnati and Dayton, faces similar criticism for its mask policy. According to the Dayton Daily News, a woman recently created an online petition calling for Kings Island to change the policy. As of Wednesday afternoon, it had more than 9,000 supporters. Some people, however, agree with Cedar Point and Kings Island's mask policy and believe staying away is precisely what people should do if they don't wear masks. "For those who are complaining, if you disagree with the requirements, then don't go. As a nurse, I can honestly say that COVID is no joke. If we do not continue proper precautions, then we will all be seeing another quarantine in October," April Gallik posted on Cedar Point's social media post. Added Paul Porter: "Nice to see you're taking prudent steps to ensure guest safety. Those who don't wish to wear a mask can choose to stay home. Thanks for putting safety first." Cedar Point will open July 9 to season pass holders and shortly after that to daily ticket holders. Clark said information on the park's reservation system for all guests will be released soon. Season passes will remain valid for the 2021 season because of the shortened 2020 operating season.