Defending the Honor of American Popular Culture

Dear Friend,

I'm writing to you today as a fellow lover of Coney Island. Marching in the Mermaid Parade, visiting the Coney Island Museum, watching the world famous Circus Sideshow, enjoying a beer at the Freak Bar—these are just a few of the one-of-a-kind experiences that can only be found in Coney Island.

The staff and volunteers of Coney Island USA are committed to “defending the honor of American popular culture” by preserving the unique history and traditions associated with the People’s Playground, and helping to ensure that the fun continues for generations to come. However, as a not-for-profit cultural organization, we depend on the generosity of supporters like you to help make it a reality.

Thanks to your support, in 2017 we were able to:

· Present the 35^th annual Mermaid Parade featuring Debbie Harry and Chris Stein as our King and Queen, as well as celebrate that milestone at our annual Spring Gala, hosted by Julie Atlas Muz and Mat Fraser of “American Horror Story.”

· Partner with the New York Transit Museum to bring the “Five Cents To Dreamland” exhibition to Coney Island and welcome more visitors to the Museum than ever before, including many local school, youth, and special needs groups, as well as researchers from around the world;

· Celebrate the centennial of our landmarked headquarters at our first fall gala.

We are hoping to make 2018 better than ever, but we can’t do it without you. Please consider making a year-end, tax-deductible contribution, or purchasing/renewing a membership today at: www.coneyisland.com/coney-island-usa/donate. By making a gift, you’ll be joining us in celebrating “the sand in our shoes” and preserving our amazing history.

Thank you, once again, for your ongoing support. I wish you and your family a happy and healthy New Year, and I hope to see you in Coney Island in 2018!

Sincerely,
Dick Zigun
Founder and Artistic Director