Hundreds of sun-worshippers flocked to Coney Island's iconic boardwalk this unseasonably warm Sunday, looking for one more chance to hit the shore and giving seasonal businesses one last chance to cash in.
"I initially packed for winter," said one visiting tourist. "I had gloves and a scarf in my bag. Then I saw the weather and pulled out the sunscreen."
"I was ready for fall in New York, but I must say, I do love the summer," said another visitor.
This weekend's summer flashback had boardwalk shops back in business. Paul Georgoulakos, owner of Paul's Daughter, served some of the largest crowds in weeks, getting a much-needed cash infusion after a rainy past few months.
"Irene ruined us," said Georgoulakos. "No one was around. This weather is very much welcomed today. It skews helps."
For many shops, this was the last chance to cash in before the season ends in early November. For Paul's Daughter, it was one of their last days in business before they closed for good. After nearly 50 years, the business is being evicted by the landlord.
"We had a good run," said Georgoulakos. "It's nice to see old faces. Just when we thought we were done for the season, we get one more goodbye."
