For most, summer is already just a memory. Today in Rye City Court, however, the events of one particular summer day will once again occupy many people's thoughts.

Just five weeks ago, national media attention focused on Rye when 15 people were arrested at Playland on Tuesday, August 30 after a misunderstanding over amusement ride policy.

Among more than 3,000 Muslim visitors at the park that day, 12 men and 3 women were arrested after a misunderstanding over park head gear policy grew into a tense confrontation between members of a group seeking admission refunds and park security staff. Eventually a call for back-up brought law enforcement officers from around the county to the park's gates.

At a County Board of Legislators special committee hearing last month, park and public safety adminstrators maintained the event operator failed to convey the policy to the Muslim visitors in advance and defended the response of park staff and area law enforcement.

Today, the 15 patrons may have an opportunity to be heard in Rye City Court. Lucien Chalfen, spokesperson for the County District Attorney, said no discussions have occurred between their office and the defendants' attorneys about today's proceedings, but it was possible they would conference about the charges before the hearing.

Look for a story about today's hearing later today on Rye Patch.