Bright spring weather frames Luna Park’s Opening Day
Officials Announce Significant Improvements to “America’s Playground”
Gorgeous spring weather served as the backdrop for Luna Park’s official grand opening on April 9. By the time FDNY Lt. Bob Poncel was ready to lead the department’s honor guard in presenting the colors before a small podium set by the entrance to Luna Park and Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park, the Coney Island boardwalk was already filled with beachgoers; blankets and towels dotted the beach and a few intrepid swimmers made their way past the low-breaking waves.
After Firefighter Regina Wilson sang the “Star Spangled Banner,” Assistant Pastor Mary of the Salt & Sea Mission performed the traditional opening-day Blessing of the Rides.
“This tradition started 32 years ago between Pastor Debbie Santiago and my father in order to get kids to go to church on Sunday,” Dennis Vourderis, co-owner of Deno’s Wonder Wheel, explained. “We would reward them with free rides if they went to church.”