Coney Island Shuts Down For Hurricane Irene

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

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

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

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

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

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

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. 

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

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]

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

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]

Zamperla Plays Nice Landlord For One More Year

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

Featured Video: Tribute To Henderson Building In Coney Island

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