Posts from September 2009

Winners of the 2nd Annual Coney Island Beard Competition

For most people September 11th is a time for remembrance, reverence, and contemplation. With the twin light towers stretching high in the rainy sky (somewhat like the Bat signal) from near Ground Zero, signaling to all who see to “Never Forget”, far off on another side of the city a clan of beard aficionados and freak show performers gathered for the 2nd Annual Coney Island Beard Competition. Starting the show with the ever so fascinating block head nailing nails into his nose and then using a power drill to heighten the effect of the intro, the crowd (including the ever so funny group of hecklers I was with) managed to break most of the tension with effective humor and well timed banter. Dressed to kill in her red corset and accompanying attire, the fire-eating, sword swallower had the audience mesmerized and looking for more. After the sword juggling act of the bearded woman (as she likes to be called), the prejudging came for all of the beards and mustaches. The categories were nothing like I had quite seen before. From the female winners being divided up into beard and mustache categories, to a category being made for a partially shaven face and head design (you’d have to see this awesomeness to believe it), all in all it was an entertaining night. If anything, any and all who can make it to next years event should take the opportunity come rain or shine!

The Famous Nathan's Hotdogs on the Coney Strip