Dating back to the 1800s, Coney Island has served as a quintessential spot for New Yorkers looking to escape the sweltering summer heat of the city. Since before the Depression era, when a hot dog at Nathan’s cost a nickel, Coney Island has not ceased to attract summer tourists and recreationalists. However, some longtime members of the Coney Island community are displeased with recent renovations that seem to have diminished the landmark’s colorful character.
Rican Vargas, who runs the Coney Island Dancers, describes the neighborhood as an “open community.” The dancers have provided the community with an opportunity to come together and dance every summer weekend for years – no matter their age, gender or sexuality. Participants were typically an eclectic group of characters, from long haired shirtless men, to cross-dressing grannies.
Coney Island has undergone significant transformations after Hurricane Sandy, and with the reconstruction of the boardwalk the atmosphere has forever changed.
On August 31, Vargas published a goodbye statement on the Coney Island Dancer website and Facebook page. He expressed anger at the community board’s priorities, which he claims focuses more on developing the amusement park than acting on the interests of the community.
Despite the unconditional love and nostalgia Vargas has for the Coney Island community, the dancers are taking a hiatus from their nights on the boardwalk. Though in a summer visit to the boardwalk, visitors may still spot some locals and wanderers trying to maintain the community’s original vibe.
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