KINETIC CARNIVAL - The Coney Island Blog

Coney Events: The Authorized Coney Island Tour

2011-12-06T03:20:00.001-05:00

Guaranteeing accuracy and humor, the authorized tour of Coney Island is developed in association with founder of Coney Island USA; Dick Zigun and licensed by NYC tour guides. It's an hour walking tour of Coney Island. (expect to get sand in your shoes). The tour starts at the Coney Island Museum on Surf Avenue and W. 12th Street and takes you through Coney Island's significant places on the weekends all year-round. It's $25 per person. Is this a replacement for Captain Bob? Ask your tour guide. By appointment only. Part of New York Tiny Tours. Registered tour guide: Kim Rancourt.

The Authorized Coney Island Tour
Saturdays and Sundays, all year round

$25 per person.

at Coney Island USA
1208 Surf Ave.

Coney Events: A Coney Island Of The Behind

2011-11-18T23:03:00.002-05:00

More than just an entertaining spectacle; Michael Schwartz is back with his whimsical showcase about Coney Island. Coney Island of the Behind is a an evening full of poetry, storytelling, comedy, dance, burlesque, music and mayhem - and all about Coney Island!

from the Coney Island USA website:

Schwartz is an award winning writer, actor, director, comedian, and singer/songwriter and will be performing some of the pieces that have been wowing audiences all over New York City and that will be included in his upcoming book.

Scheduled to appear at A CONEY ISLAND OF THE BEHIND:

Michael Schwartz: poetry, storytelling, comedic characters, singing

Alfonso Cruz: burlesque dancing/comedy, singing

Robert Ross: 2011 inductee into NY Blues Hall of Fame

Pearl Quick: star of new award winning film TO BE HEARD

Aneta Brodski: star of new PBS Independent Lens film DEAF JAM

Mermaid Hawley and Bill Brovold: “The Coney Island Love Letters”

Celia Next Time: burlesque dancing/comedy

Brant Lyon: ragtime piano extraordinaire

Hank Coyote Wagner: howling harmonica

Sheridan Lee Roberts: dancing and singing

Mollye’s Muffins: the launch of scrumptious homemade Brooklyn muffin co. (never before seen recipes available at show)

Sudsy Spirits: The Freak Bar

PLUS SPECIAL SURPRISE GUESTS

Click here to buy tickets in advance.

Coney Artland Productions presents:

A Coney Island of the Behind!
Saturday, December 3, 2011
7 pm

$10 in advance or at the door.

at Coney Island USA - Sideshows By The Seashore
1208 Surf Ave.

11th Annual Coney Island Film Festival Line Up

2011-09-22T23:42:00.016-04:00

The 11th Annual Coney Island Film Festival starts its weekend of screenings this Friday, September 23rd, 2011 and runs through Sunday, September, 25th 2011. The screening venues will be at:

SIDESHOWS BY THE SEASHORE 1208 Surf Ave. Ground Floor and CONEY ISLAND MUSEUM 1208 Surf Ave. 2nd Floor including a special screening at The New York Aquarium's 4D Theater.

The line up for the festival include:

"The Last Immortal", a documentary film by Charles Denson kicks off the festival, It screens at the Coney Island Museum at 1208 Surf Avenue on the 2nd floor at 7:30.

"Somebody's Hero"

The festival boasts 16 programs, full of short and feature length narratives, and documentaries. Opening night parties on with live sideshow featuring Insectavora and Kryssy Kocktail and burlesque performances by Lefty Lucy, Creamy Stevens, and Sizzle Dizzle. Plus variety acts and go go girls. You can do both the party and opening night screening with the festival pass.

"Guard Dog Global Jam"

Program 1 has; Tony Sirico from "The Sopranos" and "Somebody's Hero" about an accountant who moonlights as a superhero. Program 2 includes a few animated films like "Guard Dog Global Jam", and "Place Stamp Here", in addition to short films exploring the lives of young adults, which include "Perspective", "DayDreams", and "Three Things". Program 3, features the full-length "Nefertitty", which looks like some hilarious send up of the seventies underground cinema gone Tarantino! But the titties 'nefer' ends, 'cause "Love Is Hard: A Burlesque Fairytale" screens right afterwards.

Program 4, and Program 5 gives you a bit more serious fare of the mysterious and spooky. An aging escape artist goes over the edge in, "Goodbye Winter", while a "Posthumous Proposal" is made when a widower attempts to suppress his grief by altering his perception of reality. There is an awkward meeting at an "After-School Special", while a lonely "Imposter" is desperate for a woman. In the feature film "The Super", looks like he may go over the edge with his tenants. Program 6 seems to offer a bit of the surreal with a Psycho-Fugue Circus in "Carny", and hopelessness and paranoia set into the "Holes for Eyes". There is also "A Fable about Beauty", some "Good Taste", and feelings that are brutally unmasked at "The Dinner Meeting".

"The Open City"

There are dolls and animated characters running around in Program 7, amidst a portrait of the city as "The Open City" makes New York artists open their eyes. Program 8 will downright horrify you! You'll see "Boys From Coney Island" in Program 9, which also includes a silent film, "Ode To Charlie" and celebrity Chef Ronnie leads a double life in "The Craving". A yearly ritual brings "The Warriors" - and they'll be waiting for you in Program 10. "Tom And Sabrina Divorce" in Program 11 as "Ma In Her Kerchief" comes to terms with death, and her daughter in law. There's a "Hidden Star" and a "Dame Factory" along with a "First Kiss", and a "Heart Break", and a few ladies of Booby Hatch that say "Suck It!", all in Program 12! Oh, there's also a film about boners with a "Flagpole".

Light fare and music can be found in Program 13. A music video, a "Death of a Popstar", and "Tommy's Pumpkin" screen in Program 14. Program 15 features a "Heavy Metal Picnic", and a "Great Disaster", while a documentary film takes an in-depth look as "Long Island Uncovered", visits the chaos, trials, and tribulations in the life of musicians. When it comes to Coney Island films you can "Take Me There" anytime. Whether it's to "Shoot the Freak"or "Save Coney Island", "A Day In The Life of Coney Island", is more than a "Neptune Jam" beside the "IC Waters'. Program 16 also screens "The Blue Umbrella", which looks like another Coney Island funny film by filmmakers Amanda Jencsik and Chris DePierro.

"A Day In The Life Of Coney Island"

A special screening will be held at the New York Aquarium's 4D Theater, Saturday, September 24, 2011 at 5:30 and is of free admission. Screening will be "Atlantic Crossing: A Robot's Daring Mission"

This year Coney Island's Film Festival's Saturday Night Party starts at 7pm at the New York Aquarium, which features the bands Moto Wrays and Spanking Charlene. Also some more burlesque and sideshow performances along with a few more go go girls. Hosted by Adam the First Real Man. Don't miss this huge event under a huge tent.

For detailed venue locations and prices, visit the Coney Island Film Festival website.

Order your tickets before more programs are sold out!

Coney Vid: Day To Night On The Boardwalk

2011-09-22T20:35:00.003-04:00

(Click image to enlarge)

Stephen Wilkes stood high above Coney this past summer to take a long exposure photograph of Coney Island's Luna Park and Boardwalk. This video shows the stills as the day progressed into night.

Wilkes recently spoke about the 15-hour continuous shot to Amusing the Zillion and said, “A select group of images are then digitally blended into one photograph, capturing the changing of time in a single frame.” He also said that a time lapse video will be made. Well here it is!

Day To Night by Stephen Wilkes

Posted by SSTrueLoveMarinus [YouTube]

Coney Events: The 9th Annual New York Burlesque Festival

2011-09-22T20:03:00.003-04:00

Thirsty Girl Productions presents a festival of bold bravada and sparkling campiness adorned with pinches of glamour here and there and everywhere in these four days of glitter and glamour. Entertaining nine years of burlesque, The 9th Annual New York Burlesque Festival struts their glitz September 29th through October 2nd 2011.

The stages are set to shine with the following performers:

Angie Pontani (NYC), Miss Exotic World 2011 Indigo Blue (Seattle), Imogen KellyCherry Typhoon (Japan), Gentry de Paris (France), The Stage Door Johnnies (Chicago), The World Famous Pontani Sisters (NYC), MsTickle (NYC), Besty Bottom Dollar (Victoria, BC) Obskyura (Toronto), Albert Cadabra (NYC), Gin Minsky (NYC), Little Brooklyn (NYC), Bobbie Burlesque (Hollywood), Liza Rose (Seattle), Darlinda Just Darlinda (NYC), Miss Saturn (NYC), The Cheesecake Burlesque Revue (Victoria, BC), The Dolls of Doom (Chicago), Harvest Moon (NYC), Go-Go Harder (NYC), Honey Wil de (London),Helen Pontani (NYC), The Shanghai Pearl (Seattle), Minnie Tonka (NYC), Viva La Muerte (Chicago), The Love Show (NYC), Shelly Watson (NYC), Leroi the Girl Boi (NYC), and many more! (Australia),

Thirsty Girl & Pontani Productions Present

The 9thAnnual New York Burlesque Festival

Sept 29^th-October 2^nd, 2011

4 Days & Nights of Glitter and Glamour in Gotham

Featuring over 100 performers from around the Globe!

FESTIVAL DATES AND VENUES:

Thursday September 29th:

The Teaser Party

Hosted By The World Famous *BOB*

The Bell House

149 7th Street (between 2nd & 3rd),

Brooklyn

www.thebellhouseny.com

Doors: 7pm Show: 8pm

$10 advance, $15 at the door

Friday September 30^th

The Premiere Party

Hosted By Scotty the Blue Bunny

Brooklyn Bowl

61 Wythe Ave,

Brooklyn NY 11211

www.brooklynbowl.com

Doors: 8pm Show: 9pm

Cover charge: $10

Saturday October 1^st

The Saturday Spectacular

Hosted by Murray Hill

BB Kings

237 West 42nd Street, NYC

bbkingblues.com

Doors 6:00, Show 7:30

$25 advanced general admission, $30 at the door

$65 VIP advanced

Saturday Night Official NYBF After Party

Featuring DJ’s, GOGO’s & More!

11pm-1am @ Lucille’s Bar

(Next door to BB Kings and free for all Saturday ticket holders)

Sunday October 2^nd

The Golden Pastie Awards

Hosted by Miss Astrid

Highline Ballroom

431 16^th Street

NYC, 10011

www.highlineballroom.com

Doors: 7pm

Show: 8pm

$20 general Admission advanced, $25 at the door

$30 VIP, $35 at the door

GA seating is first come first serve

Sunday Night Official NYBF "All Stripped Out" After Party presented by BurlesqueBeat.com

DJs 2BTs, cocktail specials, mini-burgers and more!

11pm - 2am

POP Burger 60 9th Avenue btw. 14/15th Streets

http://www.popburger.com/

For More information & to purchase our 4-Day Pass please visit

www.thenewyorkburlesquefestival.com

11th Annual Coney Island Film Festival September 23rd To 25th 2011

2011-09-21T15:14:00.002-04:00

It's over a decade strong and the 11th Annual Coney Island Film Festival is set to screen this weekend; September 23-25, 2011 at the one and only Sideshows By The Seashore and at the Coney Island Museum and with additional screenings and festivities at the New York Aquarium in Coney Island!

Full Schedule see the Coney Island Film Festival website. A summary of ticket pricing is listed below. visits the website for more information, descriptions, images, trailers and to purchase tickets online!

Full Festival Pass $55. Click here for info.

Opening Night Screening $6. Click here for info.

Opening Night Party $25. Click here for info.
Saturday Screening Pass $15. Click here for info.
Sunday Screening Pass $10. Sold Out!
Saturday Night Party at the NY Aquarium. Click here for info.
Annual Special Screening of The Warriors $10, Click here for info.
Individual Screenings are $6, see below.
Special Free Screening at the NY Aquarium Saturday 5:30pm

Coney Island Shuts Down For Hurricane Irene

2011-08-27T11:08:00.006-04:00

Image courtesy Jim McDonnell (facebook)

As Mayor Bloomberg announces Coney Island and the rest of Zone A to evacuate before the first major threat of the 2011 hurricane season hits the north eastern states, police SUV's rove the streets warning Coney residents to leave, boardwalk businesses board-up and flee, and all Coney events cancel and post-pone.

The CIDC's Coney Island Fun Guide has put out an important Hurricane Announcement. Mayor Michael Bloomberg spoke this morning from Coney Island informing New Yorkers about the city's transportation and power stoppages during the hurricane. Most of Coney Island events for the weekend have been canceled. They include: The Cyclones baseball game, the Coney Island Circus Sideshow, and CIUSA's Ask The Experts Series. Indie Rob Leddy, Coney Island USA administrator has put out detailed information on the Coney Island USA message board about event cancellations and postponements for their organization.

Many Coney Islanders are bracing for what is not a usual event in New York. They are expressing their concerns on their Facebook spaces. "Starting to slightly rain in Coney - breeze going - waves crashin", writes Rubys Host. "I think it's time to go to the grocery store, you know, before hell breaks loose", says Coney photographer Lorna Keuning. Lola Star, hopes to be laughing after it's all over, realizing we were all just being over-cautious. "I hope we laugh about the paranoid way we fortified you [her store] by making a wall with our outdoor displays and sandbags to keep the water out", she writes on her Facebook. It now seems that paranoid we're not being. Irene is considered a major threat despite its waning strength. "The Red Flags of Coney Island were back in force tonight as they prepare for Irene", writes Jim McDonnell with his photograph (image above) on Facebook.

(Image courtesy of Eric Kowalsky)

Coney photographer, Eric Kowalsky snaps an ominous shot of W. 12th Street, which depicts an impending doom to loom over Coney in the next few hours.

To maintain a current live view of Coney Island's amusement area, keep an eye on EarthCam's Coney Island Cam. (hopefully a constant picture stream will not be affected by the Hurricane).

The beach along Zone A, stretches from Sea Gate to past Manhattan Beach. And is under a mandatory evacuation ordered my New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg. A mandatory evacuation has, supposedly, never been ordered in the New York City area in our life time.

In 2008, KC reported about a possible flood of biblical porportions that could inundate America's Playground. As reported in the Weather Channel's documentary, "It Could Happen Tomorrow". the documentary depicts the possibility that scientists predicts could happen in the next couple of years when the next big hurricane travel up the east coast could head directly for New York City. Let's hope this scenario doesn't happen here tomorrow.

Coney Events: The 21st Annual Sand Sculpting Contest

2011-08-06T23:13:00.005-04:00

The annual sand sculpting contest and Unity Day is this Sunday, August 6th, 2011 at noon. Get your buckets and creative juices out to the Coney Island beach from 10th to 12th streets. Amateur sand sculptors are invited to pile it up on the sand and make something spectacular. The event is presented by Astella Development Corp. and the Wildlife Conservation Society's New York Aquarium.

Excerpt from the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation website:

The amateur sculptors, coming from Coney Island, other parts of NYC, and beyond, will compete in five categories: Individual Adult, Individual Child, Adult Group, Child Group, and Mixed (Children and Adults). First, second, and third place winners in each category will be awarded generous cash prizes.
In addition to amateur sand sculptors, a professional will wow spectators with an unbelievable “How did he do that?!” creation in the sand, commissioned by the Aquarium.

Entertainers will rock the boardwalk while the contestants are at work. Face painting and craft activities for children will be part of the day’s festivities. In addition, along the boardwalk, local organizations will provide informational materials, along with give-a-aways.

The event is FREE of charge. Those interested in the Sand Sculpting visit to apply online at: www.astelladevelopment.org, or register at the event.

Above Image by lornagrl

The The 21st Annual Sand Sculpting Contest
on the Coney Island Beach at 10th & 12th Streets
Sunday, August 6th, 2011
12 noon to 5pm

FREE of charge

Coney Island Loses A Passionate Soul

2011-07-28T10:37:00.007-04:00

Images courtesy of Charles Denson

He became passionate about his dream of bringing a one-of-a-kind electric Himalaya back to Coney, where he would man the ride, blasting Motown favorites out onto the new Coney Island. His dream will now live on. Perhaps the Himalaya will return in his honor. He was Andy Badalamenti; a Coney Island ride operator who passed away this past Monday. He was a resident of Coney his whole life and a ride operator of classic rides including the Tornado Roller Coaster, The Bobsled, and one of his favorites; the Himalaya.

He worked at the Tornado Roller Coaster while being one of the few Coney Islander's who's ever actually lived under a coaster. Marked forever into Coney Island folklore is the image of Andy atop the smoldering ruins of the Tornado Roller Coaster as he stood promising a rebirth and a mighty comeback for the coaster. “We’re gonna fix it! The Tornado will be back!”, proclaimed Andy, as written by Charles Denson, author of "Wild Ride: A Roller Coaster Family".

He later went to work for the police stables in Brighton Beach, where he was able to fulfill his other passion for animals.

He worked as a keeper for Coney Island land hoarder, Horace Bullard, guarding some of Coney's most precious relics, while driven with a dream of restoring them to their former glory. But one which could have only gone as far as Horace would care to allow, as they sat unkempt for many years. The illegal destruction of the Thunderbolt coaster by the Giuliani administration was a hard blow for Andy. One which he never was able to overcome.

Andy looked like he might have been a tough man in his youth, who has quelled as he began to mature. Thought he was still quite young. He always wore a smile and would always have a sparkle in his eyes as he lit up when talking about Coney Island. He was a contemporary Coney Island fixture and one of Coney Island's real characters.

He was battling with cancer. He legacy will live on. He will be missed.

Andy's wake was held yesterday and will also be held today July 28th from 2-5pm and 7-9pm at Cusimano and Russo Funeral Home, 2005 W. 6th St at Avenue T, in Brooklyn. The funeral will be at 9:45am on Friday, July 29, at the Church of Saints Simon and Jude, 185 Van Sicklen St at Avenue T.

Coney Events: The Mermaid Parade Ball At The New York Aquariuam

2011-06-18T10:26:00.001-04:00

This year the Coney Island Mermaid Parade will be held at the New York Aquarium. This pool-side party is sure to be a spectacular event.

From Coney Island USA:

Calling all Mermaids, Mermen, and Spectators! Join us for the 2011 Mermaid Parade Ball, the Parade’s official after party. We will celebrate the night together and listen to live music, watch burlesque, experience mermaids leaping out of the pool, watch a sea lion show, and catch great sideshow acts performed by some of New York City’s most fantastic and unique performers.

Hosted by Adam The First Real Man

Featuring Burlesque by Little Brooklyn, Creamy Stevens, Lefty Lucy, Kat Mon Dieu, Princess Pat, Fem Appeal, Nasty Canasta and Miss Dixievon Trixie

Go Go: LaMaia, Mary Cyn, Dangerrr Doll, Evelyn Vinyl, Sarah Hassan, Celia Next Time, Fifi Dupree, Marni Halasa,

Kitten Kabooty

Mermaids: Bambi the Mermaid, Julie Atlas Muz, Sita Lange and Sasha the Fire Gypsy

Hula Hoopers: Justina Flash, Cosmic Swirl, Sasha Fire Gypsy

Live Music by The Moto-Wrays, Labretta Suede and the Motel 6

DJ Fresh Prince of Darkness.

Special appearance by the cast of the 2011 Coney Island Circus Sideshow

Synchronized swimming show by the Gotham Synchro-Synchronized Swim Team

Walk around magicians; Danny T, Gary Dreifus and Lee Alan Barrett

Luna Park's Lunatic Dance Team

And in a new innovation, we'll be announcing the Mermaid Parade winners at the Ball!

For ticket information visit the Coney Island USA webiste.

V.I.P. VIP fun galore!!! Magical Mermaids and oceans of fish will gather together for a little mermaid play!! This is the very reason you should become a VIP! You will receive exclusive VIP center - stage seating and a chance to play with live mermaids and kiss nature’s finest sea lions. In our mermaid VIP lounge you will get a chance to taste some light hors d’oeuvres, drink Smuttynose Beer, enjoy wine from Barefoot Wine and Bubbly, sip cocktails and listen to live music!! $75.

The 9th Annual Mermaid Parade Ball
The official after-party of the Mermaid Parade
Saturday, June 18th 2011
7 pm to 11:30 pm (21 and over)
at the NEW YORK AQUARIUM (OCEANIC DECK AND AQUA THEATER)
602 SURF AVE. @ WEST 8TH STREET
CONEY ISLAND, BROOKLYN, NY 11224

The 29th Annual Mermaid Parade In Coney Island Saturday June 18th 2011

2011-06-17T23:24:00.010-04:00

It's going to be a fun-filled Mermaid Parade with a new Coney Island that now boasts a new amusement park with thrill rides and roller coasters.

from Coney Island USA:

A completely original creation of Coney Island USA, the Mermaid Parade is the nation's largest art parade and one of New York City's greatest summer events!

1year's King Neptune and Queen Mermaid of The 2011 Mermaid Parade are Brooklynnative Adam Richman from the Travel Channel's Man V. Food and Cat Greenleaf from the New York Emmy Award winning television show, Talk Stoop with Cat Greenleaf!

1208 Surf Ave.

Luna Park Opens This Saturday, April 16th 2011

2011-04-13T12:57:00.004-04:00

Central Amusement International / Zamperla opens their one-year-old shiny Luna Park amusement park this Saturday, April 16th 2011, along with their new Cyclone Cafe. A full service restaurant located at the foot of the Cylcone where the Coney Island History Project was situated since 2007 at Surf Avenue and W. 10th Street. The cafe will offer a balanced meal menu including healthy alternatives. Adorned with Coney Island memorabilia, the cafe promises to be a delightful addition to the new Coney.

This year Zamperla also unveils its new Scream Zone loaded with four big thrill rides. Touted as an extreme park that will feature which include; Soarin' Eagle, Steeplechase, Slingshot, and Zenobio!

Update: The new Cyclone Cafe (or restaurant) is not located at the foot of the Cyclone as we thought, but instead across the street at former Gregory & Paul's on Surf and W. 10th. And The Coney Island History Project's new address is 3059 West 12th St, which is located on West 12th Street, just off the Boardwalk at Deno's Wonder Wheel Park

Kinetic Carnival - The Coney Island Blog's iPhone Version

2011-04-09T11:00:00.003-04:00

The Coney Island summer season is gearing up. And Kinetic Carnival is not slipping away. We'll be back with more. Now, you can view our upcoming Coney Island and beyond posts on your iPhone with our mobile version of this blog. Go to: KineticCarnival.com and it will automatically show in your iPhone version.

Subscribe to our feeds at feedburner.

Coney Events: Congress Of Curious People 2011 A Ten Day Event

2011-04-09T10:30:00.003-04:00

Image courtesy of Coney Island USA

The convention of the curious and bizarre has begun. The 10 day event will showcase the strangest, the most bizarre individuals this side of planet Coney. You’ll hear lectures and witness the lengths people will go to, to amaze and bewilder you.

The Coney Island USA cultural arts organization brings us this annual event: "Congress of Curious People". The spectacle started yesterday. So, get your tickets before they run out. This ten day event (now nine left) takes place at Sideshows by the Seashore and at the Freak Bar in the Coney Island USA building from April 8^th to the 17^th 2011.

From CIUSA:

The Congress is a ten-day series of lectures, performances and symposia exploring curiosity and curiosities, broadly considered.

10-day Congressional Passes ($75 in advance/$100 at the door) allowing access to ALL Congress events–including those that are sold out!; more on that here.

Full schedule line follows: [after the jump]

Friday, April 8
8:00: Opening Night Party $10
(Cash Bar) Musical entertainment and talk by Sol Yaged, legendary clarinetist and former headliner at the Blue Bird Casino, 1208 Surf Ave. in Coney Island (now home to Coney Island USA). The entertainment will be followed by Coney Island USA’s annual Sideshow Hall of Fame Inductions. Join us for discussion, votes, the infamous drinking game and inductions.

Saturday, April 9
Super Freak Weekend at Sideshows by the Seashore, $10 (last ticket sold at 7pm)
Colonnade of Curiosities in the Freak Bar (All day), Free
8:00: Party for the 2011 Season Premiere of Oddities on the Science Channel (Sold Out!)

Sunday, April 10
Super Freak Weekend at Sideshows by the Seashore, $10, 1pm - 8pm (last ticket sold at 7pm)
Colonnade of Curiosities in the Freak Bar (All day), Free

Monday April 11th
7:30: Evan Michelson of TV's Oddities, “A Gathering of Bones”, $5
8:30: The Flambeaux Sheaux Birthday Roast, $5

Tuesday April 12th
7:30: Ronni Thomas, “The Diableiries and 19th Century Pre-cinematic Horror”, $5
8:30: Johnny Fox of the Freakatorium, $5

Wednesday April 13th
7:30: Judson Rosebush, “Burlesque: Exotic Dancers of the 1950s and 60s, $5
8:30: Bambi and Bambi: Classic Burley-q meets the New Burlesque, $5

Thursday April 14th
7:30: Amy Herzog, “Primal Scenes: Sigmund Freud, Coney Island, and the Staging of Domestic Trauma”, $5
8:30: The Baron and Master Blaster Boy, $10

Friday April 15th
7:30: Acep Hale, “Legerdemain and Larceny”, $5
8:30: Sideshow Legends Ward Hall and Bobby Reynolds, $15

Saturday April 16th
Super Freak Weekend at Sideshows by the Seashore, $10, 1pm - 8pm (last ticket sold at 7pm).
Colonnade of Curiosities in the Freak Bar, Free
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM: 5:30 PM: Congress FOR Curious People (Day 1 of a 2-day Symposium), $25

Sunday April 17th
Super Freak Weekend at Sideshows by the Seashore, $10,1pm - 8pm (last ticket sold at 7pm)
Colonnade of Curiosities in the Freak Bar (All day), Free
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM: 5:30 PM: Congress FOR Curious People (Day 2 of a 2-day Symposium), $25

Click here for further info and to buy tickets online. Tickets may also be purchased at the door unless sold out in advance.

All Congressional events were made possible, in part, by a grant from the Andy Warhol Foundation.

Coney Island USA - 1208 Surf Ave. between Stillwell and West 12th

Coney Events: The 2011 Coney Island USA Spring Gala "Electric Eden"

2011-03-13T19:14:00.003-04:00

As Coney Island begins it's wake from a quiet winter lull that kept rumbling in preperation for a fun-filled and exciting 2011 summer season, the Coney Island USA organization revs up the season with their annual spring gala. It's going to be an "Electric Eden"

From Coney Island USA:

A dazzling display of daring feats executed by the cast of the Coney Island Circus Sideshow, Donny Vomit, Scott Baker, Heather Holliday, Insectavora and Serpentina. Featuring the burlesque stylings of Lefty Lucy and Legs Malone.With your master of ceremonies for the evening, Adam Rinn.As well as an assemblage of ambient artistry featuring aerial acts, go go dancers, hula hoopers and so much more!

COCKTAILS AND HORS D'OEUVRES WILL BE SERVED.

The 2000 Coney Island USA Spring Gala "Electric Eden"
Thursday, April 28th 2011
7 pm to 11pmGeneral Admission ticket:
In advance: $125 Click here to purchase.
At the door: $150
at AMNESIA NYC
609 West 29 St (Between 11th & 12th Aves.)
New York, NY 10001

VIP ticket: Includes private seating area! Meet and greet with our fantastic performers! You will leave with swag VIP gift bags valued at over $250 with items such as a week's pass to CRUNCH Gym, CRUNCH gym back pack, Black Hennessy Infused Chocolate Truffles, Free Fencing lesson to the New York Fencing Academy, discount coupon to Oasis Day Spa, coasters to protect your coffee table courtesy of Jones NY, and special treats from the Coney Island USA Gift Store. Plus, at the event, get your back rubbed and shoulders squeezed by the experts from Oasis Day Spa. Also, it wouldn't be VIP if we didn't offer you an electrifying open bar and some great hors d'oeuvres.

In advance $275 Click here to purchase.
At the door $300

How else can you help support Coney Island USA?....read on [after the jump]

Join the Host Committee!

Joining the Host Committee is a great way to get involved and help make this amazing event happen. Host Committee members sell or purchase 5 Gala General Admission tickets or 3 V.I.P. Tickets and receive a free admission for themselves so they can host their friends in return! Host Committee members who buy their 5 tickets by April 21st, get last year's prices ($100 general admission $250 VIP). Committee members are invited to a private dinner in recognition of their support and will receive exclusive updates on Coney Island happenings throughout the year.

Click here to purchase 5 General Admission Tickets (6th ticket is free!)

Click here to purchase 3 V.I.P. Tickets (4th ticket is free!)

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS EVENT AND DONATIONS TO THE ORGANIZATION VISIT THE CONEY ISLAND USA WEBSITE.

Zamperla Plays Nice Landlord For One More Year

2011-02-17T01:35:00.001-05:00

Image courtesy of urbanmemoryproject (Flickr.com)

Amusement operator of Luna Park; Zamperla, which recently starting showing Thor-like signs has had a change of heart and let the small businesses on the boardwalk stay for another year. As reported on Amusing the Zillion, the Boardwalk ,8 as they've been called, were supposed to sign leases yesterday. Also noted by ATZ was that the deal could still go either way. Sources said the lease has many stipulations, including a confidentiality clause which, may indicate the make or break in the deal. No word yet on whether the Boardwalk 8 has already signed the lease. All but Shoot-the-Freak will stay in their current locations. The paint but attraction will relocated to make way for the entrance to Scream Zone; the long awaited coaster for Coney Island.

This reprieve from Zamperla is supposedly temporary. At the end of 2011, the Boardwalk 8 must vacate to make way for Zamperla to continue with their plans to remake the boardwalk in their own taste. A taste some will scoff at and some will welcome.

ATZ writes:

The one-year reprieve for the Mom and Pops would end on November 1, 2011, when they will be required to pack up and go. The lease is said to be for the same amount of rent as previous years. Ruby’s, Paul’s Daughter, Cha Cha’s and others paid $100,000 for the season. An additional season would give the businesses an opportunity to set aside some money for moving costs and time to find a new location. Zamperla’s Central Amusement International has a 10-year lease on the City-owned property. As ATZ first reported last year, Zamperla also has an exclusive contract with Sodexo for food and facilities management.

Coney Vid: The Secrets Of The Universe Revealed

2011-01-27T02:19:00.006-05:00

The best presentation of Coney Island yet. Amazing still images by our Coney Island connoisseur, Charles Denson, (author of "Coney Island: Lost and Found" and director of the Coney Island History Project) brought to life in this wonderful short film, now finally revealed and displayed to the public at large. We thank Charlie for sending us this wonderful piece that was shown at last year's 2010 Coney Island Film Festival.

As an era that came and went with Astroland's theme of the future, along with what stayed from Coney's heyday; Coney Island was like a time machine, with reflections from both the past and the future at the same time. Now many of those future symbols have stepped into the past, itself. But before most of them are gone, to make way for the conventional - brought in by the power structure, they've been captured ominously in this stunning and inducing short film. This medley of Denson's hypnotic imagery echoes the reality in a place of fantasy and wonder that's forced into the trite and predictable.

CONEY ISLAND: Secrets of the Universe

Description:

A film by Charles Denson. Coney's iconic cosmology comes into play when a mysterious crypto-governmental force seeks domination of the island. Secrets of the Universe probes Coney Island's hyper-mythological role in fantasy, neo-symbolism, and the infinite! www.coneyislandhistory.org

Posted by CONEYOLOGIST [YouTube]

Coney Events: Bindlestiff Cavalcade Of Youth

2011-01-20T23:56:00.003-05:00

Image courtesy of Norman Blake (Coney Island USA)

Bindlestiff Family Cirkus started up at 'Fireplay' before later changing their name. The troupe started by Keith Neslon and Stephanie Monseu in 1995. They have performed all over the world their mixture of circus and sideshow extravaganzas. Later they became a non-profit organization as a family act.

Their motto is:

Bindlestiff Family Variety Arts, Inc. is a non-profit performing arts organization dedicated to increasing the knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the history of circus, sideshow, vaudeville, and related arts through activities including performances, lectures, print media, and workshops for the general public as well as creating opportunities for cultural exchange and fostering a sense of community.

They have performed many times in Coney Island. For this event they are shining the show lights on the youth. A cavalcade of young performers ranging from the circus to the midway in this vaudevillian spectacle not to be missed.

From Coney Island USA:

Bindlestiff Family Cirkus presents a special showcase for young variety performers, ranging from amateurs to world-class professionals. Juvenile jugglers, diminutive dancers, adolescent acrobats and a host of other moppets and mummers present a full show of vernal vaudeville. Acts range from debuting amateurs to world-class champion performers—all under the age of 21.

Now in its seventh year, Bindlestiff Cavalcade of Youth continues to feature an amazing array of young talent. These are the future stars of Cirque du Soleil, Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, Coney Island Sideshow, and television. Where else can you see juvenile unicyclists, tap dancers, magicians, clowns, and contortionists sharing the stage with Broadway-bound singers and classically trained musicians? All the performers are under 21, but audience members of all ages love this show.

Bindlestiff Family Cirkus presents
Bindlestiff Cavalcade Of Youth!
Sunday, March 27, 4pm
$15 Adults (21 And Over), $10 (Under 21)
Coney Island USA - Sideshows By The Seashore, 1208 Surf Ave

Click here to purchase advance tickets.

Coney Events: Valentine's Day For Lovers And Losers

2011-01-18T00:20:00.001-05:00

Princess Pat is full of love and kisses and she'll be giving them out in this variety show at Sideshows by the Seashore.
from Coney Island USA:

Featuring Adam Rinn as Frank Sinatra, The Amazing Amy, more performers tba
Free Chocolate Kisses

Princess Pat Presents:

Valentine's Day For Lovers And Losers

Monday, February 14, 2011
8pm
$15 couples, $10 singlesat Sideshow by the Seashore

1208 Surf Avenue

KinetOscope Video: Super Zamperla Comes To Coney Town!

2011-01-10T17:46:00.007-05:00

While Super Nemesis Thor continues on an evil path of destruction, Super Zamperla arrives to turn Coney Town into a shiny new plastic paradise. The hopes that Super Zamperla will save Coney, turn to fears that he is just another byproduct of the city's evil doings. The real denizens of the island will have to take matters into their own hands and stand up for their rights and save Coney Town!

This mini-movie pokes fun at both sides of the issue in the redevelopment of Coney Island.

Super Zamperla Comes To Coney Town!

Super Zamperla In Coney Town! from ConeyHOP on Vimeo.

This video may not play in some mobile systems. For YouTube version click here.

Looking For Coney Island Lovers

2011-01-10T17:39:00.001-05:00

Image courtesy of Lola Star

If you happen to have had your romantic start in the most fabled place in the world at Coney Island than your story is needed to be told. And in the process you could win the Lola Star "Coney Island is for Lovers" Contest.

From Lola Star:

Coney Island is for Lovers!!
Send us your Coney Island Love Story and Photo!

Did you fall in love in Coney Island? Is it your special romantic date place? Did your grandparents meet in Coney Island? Did you get married in Coney Island?
Please send us your photo and story and we will feature your love in our “Coney Island is for Lovers” Valentines window display at our Lola Star Soho Pop Up Boutique (435 Broome St, at Broadway)!
We will also feature your romantic love story and photo on our web site!
Win a $50 gift Certificate to Lola Star! We will award the most romantic love story in the Contemporary and Vintage (1960 or earlier) Love story categories with a $50 Gift Certificate to Lola Star!!
Free Lola Star Coney Island Lovebirds tote bag for all who contribute!
Submit your Coney Island Love Story by clicking HERE!!

Flickr Convoy: Crossing Our Frosty Fingers For Ruby's Bar

2011-01-06T23:58:00.007-05:00

Image courtesy of Rubys Host / KC Flickr Group

With a pile of snow, this past New Year's Eve on the Coney Island Boardwalk, Coney's iconic bar; Ruby's Bar and Grill, awaits its fate, which looms near.

This past October the businesses along the boardwalk were given notice to vacate by November 15th, 2010. Most of these businesses, in fact the eight that are involved in the eviction have formed a resistance group calling themselves The Coney Island 8. A court hearing, which was a reschedule, was set for January 10, 2010 - a request by The Coney Island 8′s attorney Marc Aronson. Some feel the postponement will help in stalling negotiations in order to thwart Central Amusements / Zamperla's own plans for the boardwalk, in time for the summer. A plan originally derived and ordered from the Bloomberg administration in their vision for a 'fresh new boardwalk'. The city is being criticized for making the cold eviction Zamperla's idea.

Meanwhile in the Coney Island 8's website, the argument is that Bloomberg and the rest of its city officials needs to get it through their heads that Coney Island can not be a year-round destination. Nor can they bring in fancy foods with high prices. Even though its always been said that Coney is a poor man's paradise, the food was still pretty expensive. Why make it even more expensive? Coney's nickle days have been long gone.

Join the Kinetic Carnival Flickr Group to add your Coney Island images and have them featured on this blog.

Coney Island History Project Moves To Another Landmark

2011-01-05T21:16:00.009-05:00

With uncertainty of the next operator for the Cyclone Roller Coaster still in question the Coney Island History Project will be moving their space from the foot of the Cyclone to Deno's Wonder Wheel.

The Coney Island Cyclone Roller Coaster is in need of a new operator after the long-time Albert family, that operated Astroland Amusement Park, will no longer be running the coaster. If New Luna Park operator; CAI/Zamperla doesn't agree to take helm of the Cyclone the city will issue a RFP (Request For Proposal) in search of a new operator.

The CIHP started with a portable recording booth in 2004, then opening their exhibition center under the Cyclone a year later, and offering free admission to one and all.

We are grateful to the Vourderis family for inviting us to set up history exhibits in locations around their park, and to the Albert family for their ongoing support as the History Project continues its mission of recording oral histories with people who lived, worked, and played in Coney Island. Come visit us at the Wonder Wheel in 2011!, states the Coney Island History Project website.

Image courtesy Charles Denson (Coney Island History Project)

New Year's Day Polar Bear Swim At Coney Island 2011 Slideshow

2011-01-03T10:39:00.005-05:00

Image courtesy of Jim Kiernan (Flickr)

The Bears were out making their usual splash in the Coney Island waters this New Year's Day 2011. The Polar Bear Club of Coney Island went out in full force through the chill and into the water for a freezing reason. And that's to help raise funds for Freezin' For A Reason and their Camp Sunshine. A one-of-a-kind retreat in Maine to help children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.

The day was as always crazy and fun. jamie nyc's images shows us just that.

Flickr Slideshow by jamie nyc

Happy New Year 2011 From Kinetic Carnival

2011-01-01T17:17:00.001-05:00

Featured Video: Tribute To Henderson Building In Coney Island

2010-12-27T23:58:00.011-05:00

Coney Island connoisseur and historian Charles Denson honors one of Coney Island's oldest buildings ~~that no longer exists~~ that will soon be demolished. The building is currently in the state of being demolished by Thor Equities. They, along with the city, was not interested in preserving a few of these old buildings in Coney Island to create a historic district. The other buildings that were of historic significance; the Shore Hotel and the Coney Island Bank Building are gone.

In this video, Charles Denson gives us a brief yet detailed account of the Henderson building and what it meant for Coney Island. The building was originally established by Fred Henderson in 1899 as the Henderson Music Hall. It featured top vaudeville and musical acts of its era. In the 30's Stillwell Avenue was extended to the boardwalk cutting through half the Henderson building. Parts of the stage area remained unused for over seventy years until it was rediscovered and brought up to current codes and opened as a nightclub called Velocity. In the video Denson shows wonderful images of the space inside shortly before its impending doom. Denson describes that the renovated space would've been a great performance space if the building was saved. But unfortunately, Coney Island has recently been desecrated by a greedy developer in cohoots with the city to, once again, do what right for business and not what's right for the community, the city, or the world.

Update: This post was rewritten to clarify that the building still stands though it faces a certain demolition. Only a miracle, at this point, could help save it.

Coney Island's Henderson Theater

Flickr Convoy: Before The Aftermath Of Demolition

2010-12-22T23:59:00.003-05:00

Image courtesy of coolfelix / KC Flickr Pool

A quiet day Coney before the changes for the good and bad came upon Coney Island as male Statue of Liberty stares into the wake of demolition.

Join the Kinetic Carnival Flickr Group to add your Coney Island images and have them featured on this blog.

note: Wrong title was used in this post in confusion of a different photo. This is the modified title.

Coney Events: Live At The Highline Ballroom

2010-12-21T12:50:00.002-05:00

The shows continue right into the new year at the Highline Ballroom with DONNY VOMIT, Human Blockhead, MC, ANGELICA, Fire Eater, HEATHER HOLLIDAY, Sword Swallower, SERPENTINA, Snake Charmer, SCOTT BAKER, Twisted Shockmeister!

Coney Island Circus Sideshow Highline Ballroom

January, 2^nd 2011

1 pm Matinee (all ages)

located at 431 W. 16^th St., New York, NY

$10 in advance, $12 day of, V.I.P. Tickets $20

Tickets and further info, click here

Coney Events: The Coney Island All Stars

2010-12-21T12:41:00.001-05:00

Catch the sideshow off season and witness a stage full of Coneyesque craziness as Coney Island USA presents: “The Coney Island All Stars” On stage performing live will be: THE GREAT FREDINI, Sword Swallower, Mc and Magic, JENNIFER MILLER, The Bearded Lady, THE AMAZING AMY, Contortionist, PRINCESS PAT, Nigerian Hotsie Totsie, and ADAM RINN, The First Real Man

Coney Island All-Stars
Live at BB King Blues Club
located at 237 west 42 St, New York, NY
Thursday, December 30^th
2 pm matinee (all ages)
$10 in advance, $12 day of
Tickets and further info, click here

Gotta Love Coney Island All Over Again!

2010-12-20T23:49:00.003-05:00

The Coney Island website by Jason Sferlazza, aka Elephant Man; "Gotta Love Coney Island" is back in full color and plentiful display. Jason launched his site a couple of years ago and for some reason took it down. But it's back with full of Coney Island treats. It's slogan says it all: "Celebrating the past, present and future of the people's playground, Coney Island" After you pass the opening flash page that sets you up in the mood for nostalgia, the home page features some video clips that highlight Coney's eccentric past. It's Luna Park page takes you into the history of the what we can now call the first and original Luna Park and ending up at today's Zamperla's Luna Park. The Roller Coaster page, which is still in the works will feature the great roller coasters of Coney Island's past and present. Which will more than likely follow the process as the new roller coaster coming for today's Coney Island emerges from an empty lot of the fertile kind. (One not owned by Thor Equities). The links page will have all your connections to all things Coney. We're glad 'Gotta Love Coney Island' is back again and we'll be looking forward to more of its content.

Coney In A Day

2010-12-17T05:22:00.005-05:00

During the last three years I've been having dreams of what I would feel like when I get to see Coney Island again. Upon my one-day business trip to New York this week, I had to make it over to Coney Island to see, in person, all that I've been missing out on over the last three years. Yes, I'm embarrassed to say that I have been away for so long from this beloved place, which I claim to love so much. Through the rigid winds of southern Brooklyn, I hopped off the F train and jumped onto Surf Avenue and...there it was. "Finally, I'm here", I said.

My favorite little place in the world. And there it was...in person; the fabulous grand gates of Luna Park. And there they were...a few henchmen working on the destruction of the Shore Hotel and Henderson buildings. I cringed and jogged down Surf Avenue while my hands and ears were hurting with the nipping of the winds and hoping that the bank building was still there. I was hoping that all those picture of its demise that I've been seeing on the internet were not accurate. I was hoping it was just a nightmare. But as I neared the Coney Island USA building I heard the bulldozer. I thought on, one hand I should have been here to make "Thorasick Park 2" (a sequel to my little short back in '07 about Thor's destruction on Stillwell Avenue). But on the other I got mad at the city for not stepping in to stop this madness. All they've done is once again give greedy developers the freedom to destroy what's best for Coney Island. So, there it was...or wasn't. The Coney Island Bank Building's remains lay there resting on its own pile of rubble. I was sad and angry. I got closer to take a picture of the shame as two demo henchman gave me a look. I was not going to let them stop me and I walked onto the lot and aimed my camera. As I gave my condolences I walked around through the frigid air which occasionally blew my hood off and slapped my ears with a brisk painful frost. I wasn't used to this cold since being in Florida for the three years.

As I walked out of the Coney Island Beach Shop on Stillwell Avenue I bumped into Coney connoisseur and author of "Coney Island Lost and Found" Charlie Denson. He was videotaping the Henderson building as more demo henchman were viciously at work. I was glad to see him again after so long. He expressed a similar sympathy with losing the historic buildings and the long-standing businesses along the boardwalk. We departed and I gave my goodbye to Coney Island...for now. I know it won't be long before I head back up. And when I do I hope to see a better place. I hope I don't see empty lots. I hope to find Ruby's open to grab a beer. I hope to see the gates of Paul's Daughter open to gorge on a funnel cake as a I look up and take another snapshot of that Astro burger boy. And I hope that time it will be to stay!

[view slideshow of Coney in a day after the jump]

Flickr Slideshow "Coney In A Day"

Coney Island's Shore Theater To Finally Be Landmarked

2010-12-13T23:31:00.004-05:00

Image courtesy of Municipal Arts Society of New York

Tomorrow, Tuesday December 13th 2010, The Landmarks Preservation Commission is set to landmark the long standing Shore Theater located on Surf and Stilwell Avenues in Coney Island. The structure was built in 1925 and houses a 2,400-seat theater. It was first used for vaudeville theater then used as a movie house for popular films until it ended up a porn theater in the seventies. The structure also contains six floors of office space above it. It's been sitting vacant for over thirty years and is currently owned by Horace Bullard, who operated the Kansas Chicken fast food chain, of which sits at the corner in the building. The land-marking will ensure that the Shore Theater will have a place in the future of Coney Island.

Save Coney Island Group Presents A Night Of Short Films

2010-12-07T10:54:00.002-05:00

More film culture in Brooklyn the second Sire Screen Series. Presented by the Save Coney Island group's. The Siren Series Deaux, Electrique Boogaleux will be taking place this Thursday, December 9th 2010 at the Black Horse Pub in Park Slope. Of the many short films screened, "Avenue X" by Leslie McCleave, which was shot in late 1992 and early 1993 and played at the Sundance Film Festival in 1994 will also be seen. It features a scene that was shot at Ruby's Bar & Grill on the Coney Island boardwalk.

The series, designed by Save Coney Island's John Salvatore, to promote local filmmakers and to raise money for a cause.

[Further film festival info after the jump]

WHAT: “Siren Screen Series 2″ film series benefits Save Coney Island. Tickets are $10

WHEN: Thursday, December 9 at 8:00 – 11:00 p.m.

WHERE: Black Horse Pub – 568 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY.

WHO: MC’d by actress Molly Ryman, star of “…Around” and “New York Lately”. Siren Screen Series’s founder and director is Johnny Salvatore.

The films presented are:

1) “A Day in the Life of Coney Island” – Daniel Turkewitz – 2010 – 20 minutes (world premiere)

2) “Twistin’ Gorilla” – Pacer Burton – 2006 – 6 minutes

3) “Avenue X” – Leslie McCleave – 1994 – 16 minutes (winner, jury prize for best short at Sundance: winner best short SXSW) (stars Brian O’Byrne of “Million Dollar Baby” “Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead” and “New World” in his first ever movie role)

4) “Olive” - Amanda Jencsik/Chris DePierro – 2010 – 20 minutes

5) “My Own Private March” – Howie Alex – 2010 – 8 minutes (winner for best experimental short at this year’s Coney Island Film Festival)

6) “Neptune Jam, Live at The Grill” - Howie Alex – 2010 – 2 minutes (music video) (world premiere)

7) “Temporarily in Love” – Randy Scott Slavin – 2008 – 3 minutes (music video) (winner for best music video at the 2008 Coney Island Film Festival; winner for best music video at the 2008 California Online Film Festival)

8) “The Heart of Coney Island” – Melanie Schiele – 2009 – 7 minutes (features Coney Island icon, Jimmy Prince)

9) “Coney Island” – Ramen Cromwell – 2007 – 26 minutes (winner for best made in Coney short at the 2007 Coney Island Film Festival)

Coney Events: The Bible Show II

2010-11-29T10:45:00.003-05:00

From Coney Island USA:

Storybook Burlesque is thrilled to bring back their Bible Show, but This Time, It's Personal! Featuring new acts and old favorites, including a brand-spanking-new group number, this reboot is one you won't want to miss! From Genesis and the Garden of Eden to Revelation and the Second Coming, the Bible Show re-imagines everything you thought you learned in Bible Study. Start your holiday season right with blasphemy and boobs!

Featuring performances by
BB Heart
Cherry Magdalene
Jenny C’est Quoi
Lefty Lucy
Magdalena Fox
Rosey La Rouge
Victoria Privates
and Tigger! as Father McTigger!
with help from boylesque newcomer, Et Tu Booté!

Skip church and save your soul at the Sideshow with Storybook Burlesque! Praise for Storybook Burlesque: “The Bible Burlesque dancers -- Jenny C'est Quoi, BB Heart, Magdalena Fox, Lefty Lucy, Cherry Magdalene, Victoria Privates, and Rosey La Rouge -- never looked as hot as they do in this risqué show.” --Asylum “Just when we thought burlesque had sold out and become all mainstream, ‘Bible Burlesque’ by Storybook Burlesque arrives to save our souls.” --Trendhunter Magazine About Storybook Burlesque: Storybook Burlesque was formed in the summer of 2009 by seven of New York burlesque’s rising stars. Our mission: to produce literary burlesque inspired by variety of storybooks, from Tabloid Magazines to the Bible, Greek Myths to Dr. Seuss"

Burlesque At The Beach!
Storybook Burlesque Presents: The Bible Show Ii: This Time It’s Personal
Friday, December 3, 9pm, $15 at the door

coney island usa - sideshows by the seashore
1208 surf ave.

Coney Goodies: Black Friday Turns Pink At Lola Star!

2010-11-24T14:28:00.006-05:00

All images courtesy of Lola Star

This holiday season you'll have to walk over from Union Square to Soho to find all the Lola Star goodies. But it's well worth the wintry walk. Forget the kiosk, here you'll find a beautiful 1,500 sq ft boutique of wonderland. After ten years of the frigid cold of the Union Square outdoors Lola set her stars onto this cozy Soho boutique.

Lola Star newsletter says:

She set her sights on finding a new holiday alternative to the Union Square Holiday Gift Market! As fate would have it, We are thrilled to have found a spectacular new space to house our holiday wonderland! It is much much bigger and much warmer than our little booth! It is the beginning of a brand new holiday Soho adventure!!

The New York Times writes:

For the last decade, determined fashionistas have been making the nearly hour long pilgrimage to Lola Star Souvenir Boutique to indulge in the whimsical retail offerings of Dianna Carlin, a k a Lola. Now, a version of that Coney Island institution can be found in SoHo.

Lola Star will be returning to the Coney Island boardwalk in the future. Hopefully, next season. Last month All of the Coney Island boardwalk businesses except Lola Star and Nathan's were terminated by the new Amusement operators of Luna Park who were given that parcel on the boardwalk to operate in the 10 year contract with the city. But Lola Star will still be in Coney Island. You can find her store in the Stillwell Subway Station on Stillwell and Surf Avenues. However, you won't find the outlet at the Dreamland Roller Rink. Unfortunately, the landlords of the Childs Building on the Boardwalk have decided not to bring back the Roller Skating for a third season. But you can't complain...Lola Star is still everywhere!

The Boardwalk Blues Un-HOOPLA!

2010-11-19T03:22:00.017-05:00

Image courtesy of jamie nyc (Flickr.com)

The past few weeks in Coney Island have been tainted with a disrespect for the old. A killing spree starting with the old Coney Island Bank Building by Thor Equities and a big sweep-away of practically all of the old businesses along the boardwalk. But the resistance by Coney Island denizens to preserve their endeared history was, once again no match for the big greedy developer and the new big amusement operator on the block - while the city allowed it all to happen. They served as the accomplice.

Here are some of the links to the past few weeks. Unlike a couple years ago, Coney Island links have have increased greatly due to the enormous growth of blogs and news sites. Here are a few highlights!

Preserving the Best of the Boardwalk
Mourning Coney Island Institution, Ruby's Bar, 1934-2010
Coney Island boardwalk sweeping out all the old businesses
Ruby’s, a Coney Island Institution, Closing for Good
Coney Island Takes One Step Closer to Disneyland
Complete Shmendriks Destroy Coney Island Boardwalk
The Coney Island Bank Building Is Gone Forever – R.I.P.
Evicted Coney Island Businesses Say They Won't Go
Why Not Tear Down Coney Island?
Coney Bank Building Demo Halted
Coney Island Loses Historic Bank Building
Coney Island Bank Building Demo Stopped... For Now
Demolition of Coney Island Bank Building Halted: Full Stop Work Order Issued

A Zillion HOOPLA!

Joe Sitt’s Gang Punches Holes in Bank of Coney Island Building
DOB Stops Thor Demo of Coney Island Bank, Cites Hazardous Conditions
Thor Resumes Demolition of Doomed Bank of Coney Island
Nov 16: Concrete, Wood or Plastic? Discussion on Future of Coney Island Boardwalk
First Pieces of Zamperla Flying Coaster Arrive at Coney Island’s Future Scream Zone
This Week in Coney Island: Party at Paul’s Daughter, Hypocrisy at NYCEDC

Featured Video Hoopla:

Historian Charles Denson; Ruby’s Daughter Speak for the Real Coney Island
Denson; "These are family businesses. These are businesses that are Coney Island. This is Coney Island...it's not some plastic amusement park. And it's not some generic, gentrified restaurant. This is the real Coney Island".

Audio Hoopla:

In Memory of Scott Fitlin 1962-2010
What's Coney Island Without Ruby's?

Indulge Yourself In Coney Island And Brooklyn Culture This Weekend

2010-11-19T02:16:00.001-05:00

Brooklyn writers; Michael Schwartz and Elizabeth Gaffney share their work and passion of Brooklyn and Coney Island this Saturday at the Brooklyn Historical Society with written works as well as poems, performance, and song in this exiting event.

From the artists:
MICHAEL SCHWARTZ will to perform;"Hey Gerry!" and Other Selected Short Stories, Poems, Monologues, and Song. His Coney Island writings have been exciting and entertaining audiences all over New York City. In addition to a reading by acclaimed Metropolis novelist Elizabeth Gaffney. She'll read from her new historical Brooklyn set novel. The event is followed by Q & A session with each of the two writers.

The event is part of part of: "Artist & Artifact - Re-visioning Brooklyn's Past" Which is the culmination of the "Interpreting Brooklyn" grant from the Brooklyn Historical Society, awarded to ten artists, including two writers (Michael Schwartz and Elizabeth Gaffney), several visual artists, and one composer, who will all be exhibited in the show. Each artist has focused on a different section of Brooklyn and an aspect of its history. The month long exhibit includes an audio recording of Schwartz performing one of his stories, a book containing all of the fifteen pieces he contributed, and an enlarged, wall-sized excerpt of a stirring section of his Cyclone roller coaster set short story "Hey Gerry! (Besides being a writer, Schwartz is also an actor and director.)

Artist and Artifact: Re|Visioning Brooklyn's Past
Writers: Michael Schwartz and Elizabeth Gaffney

Saturday November 20th 2010

2PM to 4PM

FREE ADMISSION

Brooklyn Historical Society

128 Pierrepont Street

Brooklyn, NY 11201

718-222-4111

brooklynhistory.org

The exhibit runs:

November 11 - December 17 2010

at the Brooklyn Historical Society

128 Pierrepont Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
718-222-4111
brooklynhistory.org

and BRIC Rotunda Gallery

located at 33 Clinton Street

Brooklyn, NY 11201

718-875-4047

bricartsmedia.org/contemporary-art

(Schwartz's work is being exhibited at Brooklyn Historical Society.)

ALL THE PROGRAMS AND THE EXHIBITION ARE FREE ADMISSION AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Getting there:

subway:

R train (and maybe also the M?) to Court Street station

or 2, 3, 4, 5 trains to Borough Hall station

or A, C, F trains to Jay Street Borough Hall station

Coney Events: Stuff Yourself Silly!

2010-11-17T22:03:00.001-05:00

From the Coney Island USA website:

Adam the First Real Man Presents: Stuff Yourself Silly...A Variety Show With All The Fixins.

Spend Thanksgiving Eve in Coney Island with a cornucopia of extraordinary talent.

Get your fill of unusual acts and death defying feats with some of New York's most talented and outrageous variety performers.

Featuring:
Ventriloquist Pete Michaels
Contortionist Amazing Amy
Twisted Shockmeister Scott Baker
Belly Dancing and Accordion duo Bellow Dancer
Singer Princess Pat
Illusionist Eric Wilzig
Champion Western Artist Chris McDaniel
Fire Eater Angelica
Hula Hooper Justina Flash

"Its what they'll be talking about at thanksgiving dinner, don't feel left out!"

Freak Bar opens at 6:30pm.

Stuff Yourself Silly
A Variety Show With All The Fixins
Wednesday, November 24, 2010

8pm

$13 in advance or at the door
ADVANCE TICKETS ON SALE NOW! THERE ARE NO EXTRA SERVICE FEES TO PURCHASE ONLINE.located at Coney Island USA - Sideshows By The Seashore
1208 Surf Ave.

Coney Island USA Building Brightens Up All Night , All Year!

2010-11-15T23:13:00.002-05:00

Image courtesy of The Great Fredini (CIUSA message board)

After always being somewhat quiet in the dark for a long time, the Coney Island USA building finally brightens up to a delight all night every night of the year. Coney Island USA artistic director; Dick Zigun describes the enhancements to the structure on the Coney Island USA message board:

We are two weeks away from finishing a major upgrade to the exterior of our building:

The entire facade has been power washed; the fancy tin cornice at the top of the building is being cleaned, primed and painted;2nd floor windows frames are also being painted; anti-bird spikes are being installed and the exterior lights (which have not worked for twenty years) have all been repaired.

The Surf Avenue facade will be illuminated every evening, 365 days a year; the West 12th Street lights will be on when we are open for business any evening.

The Fight To Keep Ruby's Alive Begins!

2010-11-03T05:13:00.005-04:00

Image courtesy of Ruby's Host (Flickr)

With all the opposition against Zamperla's decision to axe Ruby, the people are gathering to protest. They will not let it go down without a fight.

This Saturday, November 6th at 1pm, there will be a big rally to make noise towards Zamperla, Borough Prez. Marty Markowitz, Domenic Recchia, Mayor Micheal Bloomberg, and the Coney Island Development Corporation.
RUBY'S WILL NOT GO!

You can sign the petition here and then email, call, and fax these city officials with your pleads. Help save Ruby's Bar and Grill!

Here are the contact numbers for city officials:
Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz:
emial: askmarty@Brooklynbp.nyc.gov
phone: (718) 802-3700

Zamperla Amusements:
Phone: (973) 334-8133 ext. 201
Email: Zamperla@zamperlausa.com

Councilmember Domenic M. Recchia
phone: (718) 373-9673
fax: (718) 373-0195
email: drecchia@council.nyc.gov

from the petition:

In business since 1934, we are the Oldest Bar and Grill on the Coney Island and is famously located directly on the boardwalk with the Atlantic Ocean as our front yard.

RUBY'S is family owned and operated. We are the only full service bar & grill on the boardwalk with indoor seating. RUBY'S was Voted the 14th sexiest beach bar in the world by the TRAVEL CHANNEL. Other awards include best Dive bar in Brooklyn 1999, 2002, 2005, and. best jukebox on the boardwalk 40 years running.

RUBY'S has been featured in Films and TV

Our season is from (April) Palm Sunday thru Halloween Oct 31st.

Zamperla's Shiny New Boardwalk

2010-11-03T04:12:00.015-04:00

(click images to enlarge)
Images provided to KC by Zamperla spokesman Tom Corsillo

With a huff and puff of the new giant in Coney Island, Zamperla Amusements will blow the boardwalk house down and wash in a shiny new row of glitz. It’s out with the old honky tonk and in with the old Luna-esque; “amusement architecture”. A style designed and coined by Fred Thompson himself. Which aspect's seems to express the missing link somewhere, between the Tivoli Gardens and the World’s Fairs of the nineteenth century in design.

The masses who make their Coney visit may indeed welcome the new eye candy with its commercial theme-parkish flare, but die-hard honky tonkers may still scoff with mourn.

This Monday, boardwalk merchants received notice that they will not be receiving leases for 2011 and must vacate the premises by November 15, 2010. The only three businesses that will be coming back, at this point, are Lola Star Boutique, the Coney Island Beach souvenir shop, and Nathan’s.

"The place has been there for 76 years. It's history," said Ruby's bar co-owner Michael Sarrel, to the Daily News. Sarrel plans to appeal to the city, which owns the property and leases to Zamperla. Probably a hard bargain, since the city has been neglecting any chance of saving any history in Coney Island by not stepping in and saving the currently destructive demolition process by Thor Equities.

What’s really hurting Coney lovers and denizens is the end for Ruby’s Bar and Grill, which has been a favorite in Coney Island. It would be fitting for Zamperla to find a place for Ruby's in their new themed establishments. Along with Shoot the Freak which is probably the most memorable attraction that most locals and tourists will remember of Coney Island during the last decade. However, it seems that Ruby's and Shoot the Freak aren't what Zamperla has in their vision for Coney Island, since their spokesman Tom Corsillo, said these decisions were based on what the company thought would fit with that vision.

What is part of their vision is a sit-down restaurant and sports bar which will be open year-round. The new possible tenants have still not been named. The company did mention to the Daily News that they’ve been in talks with Shake Shack and Atomic Wings about opening boardwalk outposts.

Amusing the Zillion wrote:

“They didn’t have the vision that we have for the Boardwalk,” Ferrari told ATZ. “It’s a business decision.” He says Zamperla/CAI’s vision is to revitalize the Boardwalk by making it a lively place open 365 days a year. But it’s also a matter of investment dollars. Luna Park is investing $1.4 million in a new restaurant at the corner of Surf and 10th Street, formerly occupied by Gregory & Paul’s. A Boardwalk restaurant/bar hoping to get a lease renewal would have had to make a million dollar investment as well, Ferrari said.

Image courtesy of Amusing the Zillion (Tricia Vita)

ATZ went around on the last day of the official season taking some of the last pictures of the 2010 season of the boardwalk businesses before going into Coney memory forever.

But while the axing of the existing structures along the boardwalk seems inevitable, Ruby’s people will be fighting back this week with full force and a vengeance.

Out With the Old in Coney Island: Only 2 of 11 Boardwalk Businesses Invited Back [Amusing the Zillion]

Iconic Coney Island disappears: New landlord boots Shoot the Freak, courts chain joint Atomic Wings [New York Daily News]

Is Zamperla Trying On Thor's Boot? Coney Boardwalk Establishments Given The Heave-Ho!

2010-11-01T11:55:00.008-04:00

According to sources close to one of the businesses on the Coney Island Boardwalk. A few of the major long-standing businesses on the Coney Island boardwalk have been given the boot by operator Zamperla of Luna Park. The list includes: The Grill House, Ruby's Bar & Grill, Tom's Souvenir shop, and Paul's Daughter. No word on Shoot The Freak or Lola Star yet.

The New York Daily News called it judgment day today for the long-standing businesses on the famous Coney Island Boardwalk. Today they were scheduled to receive word whether they would get another lease for next or vacate the premises. According to letter via special delivery to the business operators, they will not be granted a lease for next year and must vacate the premises within two weeks.

It's sad to see some of them go, especially, Rubys' Bar & Grill which has been a staple of the Coney Island boardwalk for so many years. At this moment word buzz has it that Beer Island will be low and dry next year as well.

Zamperla operates the new Luna Park and is also in control of the businesses along the boardwalk. Part of their plan is to bring in a new eat-in restaurant and sports bar to the boardwalk.

update 11/1/10 12:30 pm: Electricia phoned Valerio from Luna Park and got word that Nathan's stand and Lola Star will be coming back.

[NY Daily News article after the jump]

NY Daily News
November 1, 2010

Coney Island Boardwalk businesses to learn whether they will be back on the strip next year

It's judgment day on the Coney Island Boardwalk.

Longtime businesses on the strip are set to find out today who will get to come back next year and who will get the boot.

A sitdown restaurant and a sports bar will open on the Boardwalk alongside some - but not all - of the current tenants, said Valerio Ferrari, president of Zamperla USA, the company that controls the seaside attraction. Both will be open year-round.

Ferrari said the Italian amusement giant's Boardwalk plan "will reflect the unique character of America's Playground, while updating and enhancing the landmark for generations of visitors to come."

The 11 businesses along the prime stretch of the Boardwalk have been wondering about their fates since the city tapped Zamperla to open the new Luna Park and take control of the Boardwalk. Their leases expire today.

"There's been no inkling if we're staying or going," said Anthony Berlingieri, owner of Boardwalk attractions Shoot the Freak and Beer Island.

"If your game is to have people come to Coney Island, why wouldn't you want Shoot the Freak or Beer Island?" he said. "They're good for everybody. They're good for Coney Island, they're good for Luna Park, they're good for the city."

The steamy summer brought booming business to Coney merchants and to Luna Park - which extended its season through this weekend and drew 450,000 visitors, officials said.

Rally To Save Coney Island's History Gathers For Last Time While City Does Nothing

2010-10-28T03:10:00.004-04:00

We've been pointing out Coney's nemesis Thor Equities for not giving Coney Island's historic district a chance to survive, but the city is equal to blame. Last year the city saved the amusements in Coney Island by purchasing the land under the former Astroland. But now they, are sitting still and allowing Thor Equities to bulldoze the only remaining historic buildings in Coney Island. What seems like part of their plan with Thor Equities to allow him his chance for profit while disrespecting New York's important culture, the city is doing nothing but allow this killing spree to take place.

The last chance to save Coney Island's historic district will take place this Saturday October 30th 2010, which will include the last walking tour of the historic area, Sunday, October 31st, before it's dead and gone thanks to greed by those who simply don't care about the city and its people but merely their own profit.

From Save Coney Island group:

Please join Save Coney Island for a rally to preserve the amusement district's endangered historic buildings.

Four of Coney Island's most historically significant buildings -- three more than a century old -- are in danger. Demolition appears imminent. Developer Thor Equities has thus far ignored the pleas of leading historic preservation groups.

We need to raise our voices and say that we want these buildings saved, restored, and made part of Coney's future.

One of the endangered buildings, the Henderson Music Hall, is where Harpo Marx made his stage debut, alongside his brothers Groucho and Gummo.

That's why we're giving our demonstration a Marx Brothers theme - "A Many Marxes March to Save Coney Island's History."

PLEASE JOIN US!

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 30, at 11 a.m.
WHERE: Meet at the corner of Stillwell and Surf Avenues in Coney Island

WHAT TO BRING: Yourself and your friends. Signs focused on the importance of
saving these buildings and preserving Coney Island' s history are welcome. (We are
trying to keep our message as positive as possible.)

WHAT TO WEAR: Costumes are optional but welcome. In particular, we need Groucho
Marxes and Harpo Marxes! (Groucho glasses are available for $5 at most Halloween
stores.)

AFTERWARD: Stick around to watch the brand-new Coney Island Children' s
Halloween Parade at noon.

Walking Tour on Sunday (last one!)
Don't miss your final chance this season to join us in our walking tour of historic Coney Island! The guided tour will cover all the historic buildings along Surf Avenue, as well as Coney's existing landmarks. We will discuss the famous history of the district and the importance of restoring its historic buildings in order to create a unique 21st Century Coney Island.

WHERE - In front of the Shore Theater, on the corner of Surf and Stillwell Aves
WHEN - Sunday, October 31st at 11:00 am

FREE! (but suggested donation of $10 appreciated)

All comers get a free Save Coney Island button and a copy of our brand new Save Coney Island map! (while supplies last!)

Forward this to a friend! As always, thanks for your support!
Save Coney Island

Coney Island Nemesis Thor Equities To Start Killing Spree!

2010-10-20T03:53:00.011-04:00

Thor Equities will end up on Coney's wall of shame

In the style of serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer, Thor Equities slowly begins the drilling of holes in its victim before the final blow to death! In the name of pure disrespecting greed, Thor Equities will demonstrate more than ever how little they care about Coney Island. Ever since Joe Sitt and Thor Equities stepped into Coney Island, they have nothing but lied, fabricated stories of redevelopment, and in their wake, killed existing amusements, turned honky tonk into trailer-trash 'amusements', while creating more rotting dead zones than Coney Island has ever had in the last three decades. Their meddling has risen property value to a level that will impede most amusement operators from existing here. The future of Coney Island will will place Joe Sitt with the likes of Robert Moses and Fred Trump on the list of nemesis that tried to kill the spirit and amusements of Coney Island for their own selfish gain.

Dahmer-style holes by Thor Equities

Now, without any remorse, Thor Equities is moving quickly to demolish the oldest buildings remaining in Coney Island for what only they could replace it with; temporary, tasteless boxed run-of-the mill retail spaces. Instead of working to profit from creating a historic district for Coney Island - that could probably turn out to even more profitable then the lackluster they are planning - Thor Equities is shooting themselves and their investors in the foot. It's hard to imagine selling the vacant property to another developer, which is really what they are planning, in order to build high rise hotels in an amusement area which, due to its size, will not merit it. All is traced back to the real scenario at play here; which seems to be the stubborn push for condos. Their hope is that even with a shiny new amusement park now thriving at Coney, a high rise condo will still be of value, since the noise below could be cushioned with distance. The distance being a few floors or retail and other indoor facilities.

And like the serial killer; selfishness and a lack of consideration carries them through their senseless actions.

Bank Building Images courtesy of Eric Kowalsky (Facebook)

Lola...The Shiniest Star Above Planet Coney

2010-10-19T01:30:00.013-04:00

If one person has all the zing zing and bally hoopla of the Coney kind...it's Lola Star. Her Burlesquesque sparkling style keeps popping up everywhere like Coney rabbits overloading on pink popcorn! From the rebirth of the boardwalk boutique to the long anticipated shiny spot at the subway terminal, and now all the way across the Brooklyn Bridge to the hottest pink pop-up this side of Houston Street in Manhattan's Soho district!

A soft opening for the Soho location is going on right now. Every day from 11 am to 7pm. Located at 435 Broome Street at Broadway. The official opening will be on October 23, 2010 for this 1,500 square feet of pure Coney Island magic!

Lola Star boasts:

Unicorns, shooting stars, roller skates and rock and roll bunnies... All my seven year old fantasies have exploded into day glow rainbow reality in our massive new pop up boutique in Soho!

Coney Island was named by the Dutch settlers. The word "Coney" is the Dutch word for Rabbit. Bunnies were the first to rock the Island we know as Coney Island. They filled it with thrills, magic and enchantment. The Dutch settlers were shocked to find that the Island was populated by millions of starry eyed bunnies, already christening the land of enchantment with their bunny pizzazz. The bunny party was already rockin' way before the Dutch settlers arrived!

This marks the third store for the Coney Island impresario. After her original boardwalk boutique was shut down by Coney's nemesis; Thor Equities, there was a well deserved rebirth and reopening of that location on the boardwalk. Then after a long awaited and overdue wait by the Transit Authority's over-long process, the Lola Boutique at the Stillwell Subway terminal was finally opened for the summer of 2010.

So, just in time for the fall and upcoming holiday season you can shop for all your Lola Star goodies at all three locations. Well, there's more. This holiday season you can also stop by the annual Union Square kiosk (not yet announced) and the hopefull return of the Lola Star Dreamland Roller Rink...?

As somewhat secretly announced on the Lola Star website; the Dreamland Roller Rink may be open again. Or will it? We hope so! The Lola Star website says, "Well, start getting ready because we have some exciting plans which we cannot tell you just yet... but hopefully by springtime we will have a Dreamland Roller Rink for your to rock your roller fashion once again!"

All pictures courtesy of Lola Star

Coney Events: Nights Of Horror At Coney Island's New Luna Park

2010-10-13T15:11:00.001-04:00

The new Luna Park amusement park in Coney Island gets into the Halloween Horror fascination with their "Nights of Horror" with a mix of fun and thrills of amusement park rides and live Halloween haunting terrors. This one is suitable for children and adults of ages 14 and up. And just one price includes unlimited access to twelve rides and the haunted maze intertwined throughout the park.

Nights of Horror

Luna Park Coney Island

October 2010
Fridays 15th, 22nd, and 29th

Saturdays 16th, 23rd, and 30th

Sundays 17th, 24th, and 31st

Fridays and Saturdays from 5pm to 12am

Sundays 5pm to 10pm

Luna Park at Coney Island
1000 Surf Avenue
Brooklyn, New York 11224
Phone: 718-373-LUNA (5862)

Coney Event: The Ride Inspector's Nightmare

2010-10-11T03:14:00.004-04:00

The Halloween extravaganza at Coney Island USA is interactive, creepy, and a "ride" into a twisted nightmare of an amusement park gone hellishly wrong.

THE RIDE INSPECTOR'S NIGHTMARE is an interactive show (allow 45 minutes for the complete experience) that tours various rooms at the Coney Island Sideshows by the Seashore building generally not available to the public such as the damp creepy basement, back stairs, etc.

Audience members will take a "tour" of several amusement park ride "NYPD Crime Scenes" including a deadly collapsed roller coaster and will meet living-dead performers along the way including drunken incompetent ride inspectors, creepy ticket sellers and lots of dead and decapitated bodies of innocent tourists. At the conclusion of the show, the audience will also get to partake in a courtroom trial of the negligent ride inspector and will be sworn in for horrific jury duty.

CREEPSHOW AT THE FREAKSHOW is Coney Island’s original Halloween extravaganza and one of the best haunted tours in all of New York City. This year, the rides at new Luna Park will be open weekends during the October run of the show. Come see what the New York Press called "Not only the best and wildest haunted house in town, but the smartest as well."

Creepshow at the Freakshow 2010
"The Ride Inspector's Nightmare
Recurring nightmare dates and times:

Friday, October 15, 7pm - Midnight
Saturday, October 16, 5pm - Midnight
Sunday, October 17, 5pm - 10pm
Friday, October 22, 7pm - Midnight
Saturday, October 23, 5pm - 9pm
Sunday, October 24, 5pm - 10pm
Monday, October 25, 7pm - 10pm
Tuesday, October 26, 7pm - 10pm
Wednesday, October 27, 7pm - 10pm
Thursday, October 28, 7pm - 10pm
Friday, October 29, 7pm - Midnight
Saturday, October 30, 5pm - Midnight

Sunday, October 31, Halloween!, 4pm - Midnight

All tickets $10 at the door.
Parent or Guardian must accompany anyone 13 and under.

at Coney Island USA
1208 Surf Ave. (between Stillwell Ave. and West 12th Street)
Brooklyn, NY 11224
718-372-5159

City Needs To Acquire More Coney Land For A Prosperous Coney Future

2010-10-06T17:35:00.007-04:00

Image courtesy of Pavement Pieces (Flickr.com)

The city did wonders to purchase the 6.5 acres of land from Thor Equities then lease it to Zamperla USA for their new Luna Park. The new amusement park, making this past summer season one of the busiest Coney Island has seen in a while. It also created a fixture in Coney Island for amusements. But more property currently owned by other private entities like Thor Equities needs to be purchased by the city or other civic minded entities in order to maintain the integrity of Coney Island as an amusement destination. And to also make the area in a viable revenue generator for the city itself.

In a panel discussion this past Thursday, September 28th 2010, entitled, "Heritage, Rides, Redevelopment: What's Next For Coney Island?", executive at the Walt Disney Company, David Malmuth, argued that the area could easily draw 3.5 million visitors and tourists. He stated that, “Land control is the key to making Coney viable and successful on a long-term basis,”

In a press release today the Save Coney Island group indicated about Malmuth's comments that, at least 26.5 acres of land for rides were require to accommodate this level of attendance. At present, he said, only 11.5 acres of land are set aside for amusements and only 6.5 acres are currently in active use.

“Size does matter,” he said. “If we’re going to make Coney Island a successful destination, we have to get to a certain scale that allows it to draw people, and hopefully draw people on a year-round basis.”

But he warned that land prices in Coney Island’s amusement district are currently too expensive for amusement operators to be able to invest in buying land for amusements.

Malmuth went on to stress the city needs to step it up and carry the major load in acquiring more property. And how massively important it is to keep those historic buildings that are days away from their permanent doom. Renovating them and showcasing them as Coney's historic area is hugely important in "terms of connecting people to place", to paraphrase Malmuth.

The city is running out of time. The next few days and weeks are imperative to the future of Coney Island.

[The full release by the Save Coney Island group after the jump]:

DEVELOPER STATES THAT PUBLIC PURCHASE OF LAND NECESSARY TO MAKE CONEY ISLAND GREAT

Brooklyn, NY October 6, 2010 — In a panel discussion at CUNY, veteran developer David Malmuth argued that a public purchase of the Coney Island property owned by Thor Equities and Horace Bullard was necessary to revitalize the historic amusement district as a cultural destination and economic engine.

“Land control is the key to making Coney viable and successful on a long-term basis,” Malmuth said Thursday September 30 at the CUNY Graduate Center during a panel discussion titled “Heritage, Rides, and Redevelopment: What’s Next for Coney Island?”

Malmuth argued that not enough land is currently owned by entities interested in operating outdoor amusements. Citing research he did for the Municipal Art Society’s “Imagine Coney” project, he said that “Coney could easily draw 3.5 million people” a year, but that at least 26.5 acres of land for rides were require to accommodate this level of attendance. At present, he said, only 11.5 acres of land are set aside for amusements and only 6.5 acres are currently in active use.

But he warned that land prices in Coney Island’s amusement district are currently too expensive for amusement operators to be able to invest in buying land for amusements.

“There’s a real mismatch between the private ownership of the land and public interest,” Malmuth said. “Either the city or a civic-minded entity needs to step up and carry the major load in acquiring property, so that all of the things that we want to happen can be enabled” Malmuth said.

Malmuth pointed to the success of Luna Park, which was made possible by a purchase by the City of 6.5 acres of land, which was then leased to Zamperla USA, the operators of the park. Malmuth also cited the role public investment and land acquisition played in revitalizing Times Square and 42nd Street, turning the area into a key economic engine for New York, “generating billions of dollars annually.”

Finally, Malmuth also suggested that a civic or public purchase of Coney Island’s historic buildings, several of which are now threatened with demolition by Thor Equities, was also necessary to revitalize the amusement area.

“Keeping those historic buildings is massively important in terms of connecting people to place. If you knock them down, then it could be anywhere along the water’s edge,” Malmuth said. “But if you keep those buildings, and you transform them, it’s a statement of hope that is really extraordinarily powerful.”

As an executive at the Walt Disney Company, Malmuth contributed to the revitalization of Times Square by spearheading the restoration and redevelopment of the New Amsterdam Theatre. Later he was the key project executive on the Hollywood & Highland development and its Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, Calif.

Other participants in the panel discussion included historian Michael Immerso, author of “Coney Island: The People’s Playground”; Valerio Ferrari, president and CEO of Zamperla USA, operator of Coney Island’s new Luna Park; and Lisa Ackerman, executive vice president and chief operating officer of the World Monuments Fund. The panel was moderated by Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Mike Wallace. It was co-sponsored by Environmental Psychology Program at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York, the NYC Graduate Urban Research Network, the New York Landmarks Conservancy, Save Coney Island, the Historic Districts Council, Coney Island USA and the Coney Island History Project.

Coney Island Even Has A Festival For Kites

2010-10-01T02:42:00.001-04:00

That's right! This weekend the sky at Coney Island's shore will be garnished with a spectacle in a colored variety competing for attention over the fabled sandy beach. The Coney Island Kite Festival takes flight this weekend.

The event will be held this weekend:
Saturday and Sunday, October 2nd and 3rd
10am to 5pm on Coney Island's beach.
It's free!
Bring your kite or come by to see what others are flying.

(Image courtesy of Norman Blake)

Coney Events: Ekaterina Presents: Circus! Magic! Rock-N-Roll!

2010-09-29T20:24:00.001-04:00

From Coney Island USA:

ALL STAR LINE UP!

The Incredible Super Sexy Daredevil CIRCUS UNA! The Piano Superstar CORN MO! He's getting huge by the minute, so you've got to catch his performance while we can still afford him....

Fresh from his World Tour the legendary street performer MAGIC BRIAN! He's got a new tricks up his sleeve and new tight trousers! And MISS EKATERINA - the damsel in a pinny with a sassy classy manner! It's the one in a million chance to see us together on the same stage - you will be sorry you missed it.

Burlesque at the Beach

Ekaterina Presents: Circus! Magic! Rock-N-Roll!

Thursday, September, 30th 2010

9 pm

$10

at Sideshow by the Seashore

Coney Island USA
1208 Surf Ave.

Panel Discusses What's Next For Coney Island

2010-09-29T18:59:00.005-04:00

(Image courtesy of Save Coney Island)

Pulitzer Prize winning historian Mike Wallace moderates the panel discussion tomorrow, Thursday, September 28th 2010, entitled, "Heritage, Rides, Redevelopment: What's Next For Coney Island?" and presented by the City University of New York (CUNY). Along with several local and city-wide preservation groups that will host the panel. The group hopes to answer vital questions regarding the future of Coney Island and its move forward. The discussion also hopes to save the only remaining historic buildings, in Coney Island, from the impending doom they are facing at the hands of greed and the utter disregard for an important part of New York's social integrity that should be protected.

Envisioning the "Banker's Ballroom"
(Image courtesy of Save Coney Island)

The panel will include Valerio Ferrari, CEO of Zamperla USA, the operator of the new amusement park Luna Park, Michael Immerso, historian and author of "The People's Playground" (whom in the last paragraph of his Coney Island book was the inspiration for the title of this blog). Also included in the panel are; David Malmuth, developer and former Disney executive who oversaw the restoration of the New Amsterdam Theater, Lisa Ackerman, CEO of the World Monuments Fund, the leading private preservation organization with a worldwide focus, and Cora Cahan, President of The New 42^nd Street, which has overseen the restoration of seven historic theaters in Times Square.

"Heritage, Rides, Redevelopment: What's Next For Coney Island?"
Thursday, September 30, 2010
6.30 pm to 8.30 pm

at the CUNY Graduate Center; Proshansky Auditorium
365 5th Ave (at 35th Street)

The event is sponsored by the Environmental Psychology Program at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York, the NYC Graduate Urban Research Network, the New York Landmarks Conservancy, Save Coney Island, the Historic Districts Council, Coney Island USA and the Coney Island History Project.

10th Annual Coney Island Film Festival 2010 - Sunday, September 26th Line-Up

2010-09-24T02:35:00.015-04:00

10th Annual Coney Island Film Festival
Line-up!

Runs September 24-26, 2010

At Sideshows By The Seashore and The Coney Island Museum in the historic Brooklyn neighborhood Coney Island, New York! The 2010 Honoree is Darren Aronofsky, this Sunday, September 26th, 5pm, at the Coney Island Museum. The opening night extravaganza starts this Friday, September 24th.

Sunday, September 26th

Program 12
1:00 pm
at the CONEY ISLAND MUSEUM
1208 Surf Ave. 2nd Floor

"Hey Rachel..."

Sylvia Liken, Brooklyn NY, USA. Animation, 2:00

What About the Father?
Sara Strahan, New York, NY, USA. Experimental, 3:16

Hoop Springs Eternal
Linda Goldman, Ted Fisher, New York, NY, USA. Documentary Short, 5:26 (pictured)

A Fool's Idea - An Exploration of Clown, Pilot: "What is Clown?"
Brian Bernhard, Brooklyn NY, USA. Documentary Short, 9:53

Mermaids Of New York
Ilise S. Carter, Mica Scalin, New York, NY. Documentary Short, 16:00

The Faux Real
Suzanne Hillinger, Brooklyn NY, USA. Documentary Short, 20:33, Brooklyn Premiere!

Hell On Wheels: Gang Girls Forever
Katrina del Mar, New York NY, USA. Short, 36:34, Brooklyn Premiere!

Program 13 Coney Island Films
2:00 pm
at SIDESHOWS BY THE SEASHORE
1208 Surf Ave. Ground Floor

Gizmo Kaleidoscope

Susan Shaw, New York, NY, USA. Experimental, 3:17

The Waking Artist

Jacob Mendel, Ann Arbor, MI, USA. Short, 4:07, World Premiere!

Coney Island: Secrets of the Universe

Charles Denson, Berkeley CA, USA. Short, 6:00, World Premiere! (pictured)

My Own Private March

Howie Alex, New York NY, USA. Experimental, 7:45, World Premiere!

Night Falls on Coney Island

Daniel Turkewitz, New York NY, USA. Experimental, 9:34

Saving The Sideshow

Mahawish Rezvi, Rebecca Huval, New York, NY, USA, Documentary Short, 17:54, World Premiere!

Last Night in Astroland with Jimmy Prince

Lou Dembrow, NY NY, USA. Documentary Feature, 44:22, World Premiere!

Program 14

3:00 pm

at the CONEY ISLAND MUSEUM
1208 Surf Ave. 2nd Floor

The Skisherman
Chandler Kauffman, Brooklyn NY, USA. Documentary Short, 5:20

Tiger Ted Lowry
Chris Cassidy, Brooklyn NY, USA. Documentary Short, 11:18

Enter The Beard
Matthew Lawrence, Toms River NJ, USA. Documentary Short, 15:00, New York Premiere! (pictured)

1939 I Have Seen The Future
Lisa Seidenberg, Westport CT, USA. Documentary Short, 35:00

Moby: One Time We Lived
Robert Powers, Woodside NY, USA. Music Video, 3:50

Program 15

4:00 pm
at SIDESHOWS BY THE SEASHORE
1208 Surf Ave. Ground Floor

Slap Back Jack "High Five Master"

Mark Newell, New York NY, USA. Animation, 11:03, New York Premiere!

Gelber & Manning in Pictures

James Lester, Brooklyn NY, USA. Short, 10:53, Brooklyn Premiere!

Road Less Traveled
Laura Moss, New York, NY, USA. Short, 6:45, World Premiere!

Land Without Shadows
Antoine Blanchet, Paris France. Short, 16:22, New York Premiere! (pictured)

The Cycle

Roy Clovis, Brooklyn NY, USA, Short, 17:55

Empire Corner

JP Chan, New York NY, USA, Short, 12:13, Brooklyn Premiere!

The Final Weapon

Stephan Berwick, Falls Church, VA, USA. Short, 15:00, New York Premiere!

Program16

5:00 pm
at the CONEY ISLAND MUSEUM
1208 Surf Ave. 2nd Floor

Special Event: 2010 Coney Island Film Festival Honoree Darren Aronofsky (in person) plus "Requiem for a Dream"

Requiem for a Dream
Directed by Darren Aronofsky, Unrated, 102 Minutes

Program 17

6:00 pm

at SIDESHOWS BY THE SEASHORE
1208 Surf Ave. Ground Floor

Albert

Elin Gronblom Brooklyn NY, USA. Short, 13:10, World Premiere!

Jules and Candy

Joseph Quirk, New York NY, USA. Short, 8:32

Butterflies of Trip City

Nika Belianina, Toronto On, Canada. Short, 14:50, World Premiere!

Tollbooth Motel

Annika Kurnick, New York, NY, USA, Short, 11:42

Blindsided

Mark Cabaroy, Bronx NY, USA. Short, 15:00

Le tramway fantôme de Marseille

Lionel Laget, Marseille, France. Silent Film, 12:00

You're Here

David Vandas, Langley BC, Canada. Music Video, 5:16

FOR ALL PROGRAMS:

Advance Tickets are $6. Click here to purchase. There are no extra service fees to buy online. We strongly advise purchasing in advance. All tickets sales are non-refundable.

For further information visit the Coney Island Film Festival website.

Buy tickets now

Have a fun-filled festival!

10th Annual Coney Island Film Festival 2010 - Saturday, September 25th Line-Up

2010-09-23T03:30:00.038-04:00

10th Annual Coney Island Film Festival
Line-up!

Runs September 24-26, 2010

Saturday, September 25th

Program 1
1:00 pm
at the CONEY ISLAND MUSEUM
1208 Surf Ave. 2nd Floor

The Cow Who Wanted To Be a Hamburger
Bill Plympton, New York, NY , USA. Animation, 6:00 (pictured)

American Brooklyn
Michael Schloemer, Brooklyn, NY , USA. Documentary Short, 11:29

Ministry in the Subway

Dennis W. Ho, Brooklyn, NY , USA. Documentary Feature, 78:00, World Premiere!

Program 2
2:00 pm
at SIDESHOWS BY THE SEASHORE
1208 Surf Ave. Ground Floor

Ray Condo's Crazy Mixed Up World
Debra Dawson, Vancouver, BC, Canada. Animation, 4:07, World Premiere!

Banana Bread
Barton Landsman, New York NY, USA, Short, 9:00 (pictured)

We Could Be Ninjas
Poz Lang, New York NY, USA. Short, 10:47, New York Premiere!

With Anchovies...Without Mamma
Thomas Justino, Brooklyn NY, USA. Short, 24:36, Brooklyn Premiere!

Alienated
Paul Borghese, New York, NY, USA. Short, 21:47

Thy Kill Be Done
Greg Hanson, Casey Regan, Rocky Point, NY, USA. Short, 16:40, New York Premiere!

Bobby Visits The Library
Eric Krasner, MD, USA. Short, 3:12, New York Premiere!

Paradise Beach

Louis Netter , Yonkers, NY, USA. Animation, 2:11

Program 3 Sold out!

3:00 pm

at the CONEY ISLAND MUSEUM

1208 Surf Ave. 2nd Floor

Vinny Vino

Bill Sorice, New York, NY, USA. Short, 9:51, New York Premiere!

The Rocking Horse Winner

Bob Calabritto, Levittown NY, USA. Short, 10:57 (pictured)

Rain Dog

David Gutnik, New York NY, USA. Short, 12:00, World Premiere!

Poetry Man

James McSherry, Bronx, NY, USA. Short, 27:00

Utopia Lies at the Horizon

Leo Curbelo, New York, NY, USA. Short, 12:00, World Premiere!

Til My Voice Is Gone

Sam Griffith, Los Angeles Ca, USA. Music Video, 6:17

Program 4

4:00 pm
at SIDESHOWS BY THE SEASHORE
1208 Surf Ave. Ground Floor

Why is Blue Man Blue?

Charles Cohen, Baltimore MD, USA. Documentary Short, 12:00

Amant De Chaussure (Shoe Lover)

Michael Erland Walsh, Jersey City, NJ, USA. Short, 6:00

Career Advice

Peter Stass , Los Angeles CA. Short, 3:45, New York Premiere!

Socarrat

David Moreno, Madrid, Spain, Short, 11:40, Brooklyn Premiere!

Birth

Signe Baumane, New York NY, USA. Animation, 12:00, Brooklyn Premiere!

Love Comes Out of The Butt
Matthew Silver, Bergenfield, NJ, USA. Short, 23:23

OLIVE - Coney Island

Chris DePierro, Amanda Jencsik, West NY, NJ, USA. Short, 20:00 (pictured)

"This Town" Gambit
Randy Scott Slavin, New York, NY, US, Music Video, 4:23, Brooklyn Premiere!

Program 5

5:00 pm

at the CONEY ISLAND MUSEUM
1208 Surf Ave. 2nd Floor

Satan Hates You
James McKenney, Brooklyn NY, Feature, 94 minutes, New York Premiere! (pictured)

Program 6

6:00 pm

at SIDESHOWS BY THE SEASHORE
1208 Surf Ave. Ground Floor

Last Summer at Coney Island JL Aronson, Brooklyn, NY. Feature, 94:00

Now, after years of false starts, change is coming to Coney Island. Come Hell or high water, the city of New York is determined to revitalize the once glorious, world capitol of amusements. Meanwhile, a private developer with dubious motives has been purchasing every square foot of land he can get his hands on. The neighborhood's residents, along with the amusement community and the millions who cherish Coney Island's legacy are left wondering what will happen next. Seaside salvation or Brooklyn boondoggle? History will decide but this film is the first draft. Last Summer at Coney Island juxtaposes images of the past and present with interviews and observed scenes featuring many of the key players in this transformation.

Read the review from the New York Post!

Program 7 Sold out!

7:00 pm
at the CONEY ISLAND MUSEUM
1208 Surf Ave. 2nd Floor

Flushed
Luke Hansen, Somerset NJ, USA. Animatiion, 3:36, World Premiere!

Hairnimation #2
Amy Grumbling, Brooklyn NY, USA. Experimental, 2:43

"Va Fa Napoli, Hipster"
Matt Weckel, New York NY, USA. Short, 2:23, World Premiere! (pictured)

New York Trilogy
Tal Shamir, New York, NY, USA. Experimental, 9:09

Snapshots
Andres Rosende, Kate Barker, New York NY, USA. Short, 14:29

Two
Ryan Gielen, Sunnyside NY, USA. Short, 16:19, New York Premiere!
Midlife
Michael Swingler, Los Angeles Ca, USA. Short, 21:43

Bay Rizz: The Man for You
Mike Rizzo, Rachele Richards, Brooklyn NY, USA. Music Video, 3:30

Loop-da-Loop and Giuseppe
Jason R. Jaworski, Union City NJ, USA. Silent, 16:16, New York Premiere!

Program 8

8:00 pm

at SIDESHOWS BY THE SEASHORE

1208 Surf Ave. Ground Floor

DemiUrge Emesis
Voltaire, New York, NY, USA. Horror Animation, 2:30

Vision
Jamie Hooper, U.K. Horror, 8:40, New York Premiere!

Happy Face
Franklin P. Laviola, Islip, NY. , Horror, 14:27

Tub
Bobby Miller, Brooklyn NY, USA. Horror, 12:17 (pictured)

Alice Jacobs is Dead
Alex Horwitz, New York NY, USA. Horror, 21:10

Parking Space
David Bitton, Montreal, QC, Canada, Horror. 20:30, New York Premiere!

The Devil's Toy
Alex Lugones, Ridgefield, CT, USA, Horror. 8:05, New York Premiere!

Program 9
9:00 pm
at the CONEY ISLAND MUSEUM
1208 Surf Ave. 2nd Floor

Panache
Nicole Emmons, Val Verde, CA, USA. Experimental, 3:00 (pictured)

Coney Ideal
Anthony Simon, Brooklyn NY, USA. Short, 2:50

Springtime in November
Jane Dorogoyer, Brooklyn NY, USA. Documentary Short, 8:07, World Premiere!

The Sparrow and the Tigress
Billy Sharff, Cornish New Hampshire, USA. Feature, 62:00, New York Premiere!

Program 10

10:30 pm
at SIDESHOWS BY THE SEASHORE

1208 Surf Ave. Ground Floor

Warriors

WARRIORS, COME OUT TO PLAAYY YAAAY. The leader of New York's biggest street gang declares a truce, and gangs from all 5 boroughs venture to the Bronx for a clandestine meeting. When an assasination takes place, one gang stands wrongly accused and the truce is off. Now they must fight they're way back home to Coney Island, because a whole city is gunning for - The Warriors!

A Coney Island cult classic. Every year we pack the house and wouldn't you know it, it becomes an interactive film going experience! People reciting lines, loud applause, clanging beer bottles. CAN YOU DIG IT?? Advance ticket purchase strongly suggested to avoid sell out. We are the only venue in the Coney Island Amusement zone to screen this Coney Island Classic. See it in the actual neighborhood it was shot in!

Program 11
10:40 pm
at the CONEY ISLAND MUSEUM
1208 Surf Ave. 2nd Floor

Cellar
Steve Staso, New York NY, USA. Feature, 83:00

The film follows these three characters as they eventually intersect in a changing neighborhood [Hells Kitchen] during the month of November, 2008.

FOR ALL PROGRAMS:
Advance Tickets are $6. Click here to purchase. There are no extra service fees to buy online. We strongly advise purchasing in advance. All tickets sales are non-refundable.

For further information visit the Coney Island Film Festival website.

Buy tickets now

Sunday line-up tomorrow

Future Of Coney Island's Historic District Could Boast The Banker's Ballroom

2010-09-22T21:41:00.003-04:00

The Banker's Ballroom
(Click image to enlarge)

The Save Coney Island group, released, Wednesday, a new rendering envisioning the Bank of Coney Island as a new Bowery style ballroom for music and other events. They named it “The Banker’s Ballroom”.

Their reasoning was to demonstrate that there is a different and positive option for the structure, other than that of destroying it, which is what Thor Equities plans to do. Their disrespect for Coney Island has gone on for far too long. Once you vanish the possibility of this historic place from having a genuine historic district, you can never bring it back.

Save Coney Island writes:

“The Bank of Coney Island could be restored and re-purposed as a Bowery-Ballroom-style event space,” said Save Coney Island spokesman Juan Rivero. “This would not only preserve one of Coney's most attractive and historic structures, but also give new life to the amusement area and contribute to its revitalization.”

While Thor Equities has to date not expressed interest in revitalizing the structure, Save Coney Island hopes that another entity might purchase the site from Thor and adaptively reuse the Bank of Coney Island building.

The structure, which is still sound, was built in the early 1920’s by the Coney Island Chamber of Commerce. It boasts a neo-classical architectural style. As Save Coney Island notes, the bank dealt with many of the amusement businesses in the area. It ceased to exist as a bank in the early 90’s. After which, it was temporary making competition with Coney Island USA’s Sideshow by the Seashore, with Bobby Reynolds and his two headed babies and other freak shows before heading out west leaving the bank an empty oasis for almost twenty years.

We can only hope that the Bank building is saved and restored. Hopefully, a miracle could come from around the corner and make Coney’s historic district a reality for it’s future. Save Coney Island gives us a glimpse of hope with their comment:

“New York has a track record of saving wonderful structures from the chopping block at the eleventh hour,” said Simeon Bankoff, executive director of the Historic Districts Council. “Grand Central, the High Line, even Coney Island's own Parachute Jump and Cyclone were all once threatened with demolition, but were ultimately restored and have become New York City icons. The Bank of Coney Island could be the next.”

[The history the Bank of Coney Island from the Save Coney Islands press release after the jump]:

From the press release by Save Coney Island group

T h e B a n k o f C o n e y I s l a n d
located 3001 - 3017 West 12th Street
Threatened with demolition by Thor Equities

The Bank of Coney Island building was built ca. 1923 on West 12th Street and was once part of a larger bank complex that extended to the corner of Surf Avenue. Designed by Holmes & Winslow, architects that specialized in bank design, the building was executed in stone with traditional classical motifs. Many original features remain including a double height arched entrance anked by Doric pilasters and capped by a keystone; a denticulated cornice below the attic level; and a stone string course above the attic oor windows.
(Image on right top: Bank of Coney Island Building, ca. 1940 (from NYC Transit Museum)

(Image on right bottom: Bank of Coney Island Building today)
The Bank of Coney Island was originally formed to serve and strengthen the businesses and industry of the immediate area, most of which were related to amusements. Among the early founders of the Bank of Coney Island were other well-known Coney Island land and amusement owners. These included Frederick Henderson of Henderson’s Hall; Charles Feltman of Feltman’s beer garden (where the hotdog was invented); Henry Grashorn of the Grashorn hardware store; and William J. Ward, proprietor of the Ward’s baths and other amusements. Built at the dawn of the Nickel Empire, the Bank of Coney Island building represents the solidi cation of the Coney Island’s business community that helped de ne an era of stabilization and public investment in the neighborhood.