THE RIVALRY THAT REDEFINED ENTERTAINMENT CONEY ISLAND’S CUTTHROAT CARNIVAL
Stealing Ideas and Underhanded Tactics Tilyou’s success soon drew the attention of rival park operators. In 1902, he lured away the founders of the popular “A Trip to the Moon” attraction from the upcoming Luna Park. These underhanded tactics were common, as the parks constantly copied each other’s rides and acts to one-up the competition. Rapid Innovation Drives Change This competitive spirit drove rapid innovation at Coney Island. Over just a few years, the parks introduced groundbreaking new attractions like the Rotating Barrel, Thunderbolt roller coaster, and the world’s largest Ferris wheel. They transformed the public’s perception of amusement parks, elevating them from sideshows to immersive, technologically advanced experiences.
The Birth of the Modern Amusement Park The era of Coney Island’s dueling theme parks was short-lived, lasting only from 1904 to 1911, but its impact can still be felt today. The parks’ relentless one-upmanship drove the rapid evolution of the amusement park industry, laying the foundation for the iconic destination Coney Island has become. What began as a vulgar locale became a glittering symbol of American ingenuity and the pursuit of wholesome fun. While the tactics of these rival parks may have been underhanded, the lasting legacy of their fierce competition is undeniable. The rapid innovations, technological advancements, and shifts in public perception from this crucible of competition continue to shape the amusement park experience today.
In the early 20th century, Coney Island was the beating heart of America’s burgeoning amusement park industry. Three rival theme parks — Steeplechase Park, Luna Park, and Dreamland — engaged in fierce, cutthroat competition that dramatically reshaped this iconic destination. A Tawdry Reputation Transformed Coney Island’s reputation was once far from wholesome. Known as “Sodom by the Sea,” it was considered a tawdry, vice-filled destination. That began to change in 1897 when Steeplechase Park opened. Its founder, George Tilyou, sought to bring clean fun to the masses, creating a lighthearted atmosphere exemplified by his iconic “Funny Face” caricature.
Tessa’s Coaching Wisdom WHY GIVING YOUR ALL TODAY CAN PREVENT FUTURE REGRETS
When we recognize National Coaches Day in early October, we have a special opportunity to reflect on our relationships with the individuals who taught us the value of hard work, never backing down, and much more. Many of the team members working at our office have expansive experience playing sports for coaches or serving as coaches themselves in various capacities. Our administrative professional, Tessa, is an excellent example of this, as she was a Division 1 athlete on Saint Louis University’s swim team. She has valuable insight into the wisdom coaches can impart and the lessons we can learn from them.
youth. Since she joined us this past November, we’ve all been coaching her in one way or another to help her improve her skills. She’s great at taking instructions and always follows up with any questions she may have, which partially stems from her vast experience with coaches. However, Tessa also has experience coaching from the other side, as she’s served as a full-time swim coach. Few people are more qualified to talk about the role of coaches than Tessa! Tessa states, “The best piece of advice a coach gave to me was to give my 100% effort in the present moment because there will only be regret in future moments if I give less than my best. I carry this piece of advice with me because it has
proven to be true in all areas of my life. I can confidently say that I have only felt regret in times when I knew I had more effort to give. I’ve never felt regret in times when I can say with certainty that I gave my 100% best effort.” We can apply this advice to nearly every aspect of our lives, from relationships to careers. Additionally, Tessa found the most valuable lesson she learned from a coach was that nobody can take your accomplishments from you. We’re all unique and have our own set of goals we’re striving to achieve. We lose out when we start comparing ourselves to others. Tessa says, “Comparison does not achieve goals; confidence does.”
Tessa has had unique experiences with coaches since she swam competitively throughout her
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