This year, the New York Yee Fong Toy Association held its annual summer picnic on July 12, 2008 at Rye Playland in Rye, NY. Our Grand Elder Peter suggested this venue due to its closeness and lower fuel charges. We did not want to raise the cost or turn away any of the nearly 200 people interested in this event. Seeing the youth with their parents and our elders enjoying a day of fun was well worth the expense.

This year, among the anxious participants waiting for the four chartered buses to arrive were about 20 cousins from the Ma Association. With the cooperation of our group and the traffic, we arrived earlier for what turned out to be another great day of fun. The extra time gave us more opportunities for pictures, chat with one another, eat and get familiar with this large amusement park. When the entrance opened at noon, everyone was ready for a day of adventure.

Besides the amusement park rides, there were a beach, pool, boardwalk, mini golf, boating, lake cruises and nature trails, something for everyone. As President Gong and I walked around, we were glad to see that the enormous 280-acre park did not keep our group from exploring. We even enjoyed some time at the arcades where Gong’s skills won some big prizes. Like previous years, we enjoyed the opportunity to interact with others. More so this year was the time we spent with our Ma cousins.

We also had the chance to visit the onsite Playland Museum. I did not realize that this is the only government owned-and-operated amusement park in the United States. It was built in 1928 and run by Westchester County. The Dragon Coaster is one of about 100 wooden roller coasters still operating in the U.S. It is also the home of a Grand Carousel dated 1915. The New York Ranger Hockey team also practiced at Playland’s Ice Casino.

My wife and I have not been to Playland for about 20 years. We were pleasantly surprised by the vast improvements. We were entertained for free by performers on its main stage in the center of the park. The picturesque backdrops and Long Island Sound added to many people’s desire to revisit this park. Hope everyone enjoyed themselves and see you all next year.

Frank Yee, NY