…Its nearly a hundred years old…& it is stilled loved.

“Coney Island…Cyclone…

Dee-Dee Diamond

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As it is said, tritely, (I was minding my own business), eating dinner on my snack table, while watching the 6:00 news.

When suddenly a red banner flashed Breaking News, “The world-famous Cyclone Roller-Coaster is in dire trouble”.

Oh no, as I dropped my twisted forkful of delicious Linguine Marinara.

(If you know me this constituted a disaster, for when I’m busy slurping pasta, I’m in another world)! 🙄

Holy Brooklyn!

The Cyclone, treasure of my Brooklyn youth…is kaput!

It stopped dead on its highest steep, hill… stranding it cargo of riders teetering over Coney Island. 😨😱

The caterpillar-like multi car ride turned screams of excited thrill riders…into screams of panicked terror. 🙃

In the streets way below were lines of ticket holders from far & wide selfishly disappointed when it was broadcasted, “No more rides…rescue teams on the way…” 👮‍♂️👨‍✈️👨‍🚒

Police, Firetrucks, ambulances from Coney Island Hospital sped to the scene sirens blasted. 🔈🔉🔊

Alarmed loved ones below waited on the crowded sidewalk, franticly prayed and held other. 🙏

Time passed slowly as Brooklyn’s Finest and Bravest, went to work👮‍👷‍👮‍👩‍🔬👮‍♂️

Finally, dramatically the riders one- by -one was picked off the tracks safely.

All cried with relief.

The ancient ride it seems had violations. It will not re-open until its wooden, structure was fixed… track mechanics overhauled. 🛠🔧🔩

A final complete inspection would then allow the Cyclone to re-open.

(I surmise it might not happen this season).

One summer in about 1956 …

I tell you that as a fearless teenager, I rode this scary ride, (on a dare), 9X, in a row!

Holy Stupid! (but it was such a thrill)! 😄

Today at 83, I wouldn’t even attempt😏… a New York Subway ride. LOL!

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Dee-Dee Diamond

Born & raised in Brooklyn, 80 years, ago. Interviewed by The Brooklyn Historical Society. I published a funny book called” First Stop Brooklyn” it's on Amazon.