DEFEND CONEY ISLAND

Why do the corporate moguls always have to crash the party of the proletariat? Coney Island is a cultural paradise where the young, the old, the fat and thin alike, the Russian and any other nationality can all intermingle and sing kumbayas of summertime, or any time for that matter. By 2011, it is expected to be completely transformed, and thus completely devoid of its intrinsic charm.

Big wig Joseph Sitt is the new starry-eyed owner with plans of destructing authenticity and erecting twenty first century enhancements in its stead. He plans to put in over two million dollars worth of high rise modern hotels, an indoor amusement park and retail stores not of the independent ilk, possibly sacrificing old trademark structures and establishments along the way.

The beloved metropolitan oasis is perfect for a local's one day gettaway or a more premeditated commuter's vacation. Its entire appeal is the dingy and feel-good vibe. A place where the working man can feel at home and uninhibited. The best part about the attraction is its frequenters. Several languages can be heard just walking down the boardwalk, and on the beach the tan and the beautiful frolic alongside the tacky and gluttonous. Kicks can be had whether they may be shooting the freak or targets in a wooden saloon setting. Tummies can be tousled on the Cyclone, a roller coaster still going after 80 years. The Wonder Wheel is the biggest Ferris wheel in the country.

Locals are hopeful — or perhaps in denial — of the park's preservation. A Brooklynite cafe clerk claims "they said it was going to change last year and nothing happened. They said last year was the end of the original Coney Island. I don't think anything will really happen." The clerk went on to say her boss upon hearing of the potential tearing down of certain parts of the park and the plans of new sleek developments went to the annual mermaid parade last year dressed as a "mermaid in mourning," complete with a black mermaid suit and veil. This year, she returned with the same suit, but glamorized.

Here's hoping the new and flashy won't monopolize the humble and rickety for once. Leave Coney Island alone in all its glory, meaning without the frills. This is one piece of tarnished silver that should not be polished.