Thursday, May 9, 2013

Mermaid Parade Launches Kickstarter Project

The Mermaid Parade has been a staple in Coney Island since 1983.  Thanks to Hurricane Sandy wrecking havoc, the folks that put on the parade are working hard to keep a much loved tradition alive.  So, they've started a Kickstarter project.  Click HERE for more details on what you can do to help save a much loved institution.

As a photographer, the Mermaid Parade is one of the most fun events to photograph. It is in general, a complete and total blast to experience.  



Hurricane Sandy wreaked havoc on the Coney Island community. It also destroyed our historical museum and performance space at 1208 Surf Avenue. We rely on the income from our popular side-show and gift shop, along with registration fees, to pay for the Mermaid Parade. With our building severely damaged and donations slowing to a trickle, our not-for-profit has had virtually no income. In many ways we’re still underwater. What this all means is that the 31st Mermaid Parade now has a budget shortfall of $100,000. This is an impossible gap for a tiny not-for-profit arts organization like ours.