“Little Island,” Big Money!

In 1946, Anna Intelisano (RIP), my grandmother, came to the USA by herself, speaking no English, and leaving her 4 year-son, (my Father Robert Sr.), and her husband Salvatore Intelisano in Sicily.  Anna was 29 and left a middle-class lifestyle in search of “The American Dream!” 

It did not start well as she started as a maid cleaning floors, then worked her way up to be a sample dressmaker for a young upstart designer named Diane Von Furstenberg in the late 1970’s.  Anna was an outstanding cook and always made extra food which she would bring to work.  Diane was known to stop by Anna’s workstation on a regular basis and ask, “Anna, what are we having for lunch today?”  Diane, a Belgian designer, is best known for her wrap dress and found “The American Dream.” 

Diane Von Furstenberg went on to do great things; however, this could be her best gift to the USA and the world!  Her foundation, The Barry Diller-Von Furstenberg Family Foundation gifted $260 million and earmarked another $120 million for the building and maintenance of the newest public park called “The Little Island!”  It is estimated that this $380 million investment will yield billions in tourist revenues over the years!

The Little Island

My sister, (in-law) Stacey Reiss, visited The Little Island opening week and described it as, “A beautiful gift to the city of New York… truly one of those special places that only happen once in a decade or so, like the Highline or Brooklyn Bridge Park.  It is what makes New York City so spectacular, public art and spaces that are accessible to all.”

One of the ways New York can and will bounce back is with the return of tourism.  As we make a comeback, tourist books, websites and magazines will be re-written including “The Little Island,” and this is another reason why people will visit New York City!  

My Top 10 Reasons to Visit the Little Island:

1. It is FREE:  There is no charge so everyone can enjoy it!  Little Island is a public park that provides a one-of-a-kind relationship between nature and art!
2. Sprawling Grounds: Little Island is a 2.4-acre island in the Hudson River built on water where Pier 54 used to be, off West 13^th street.  It is an engineering marvel built on tulip-shaped pods, a wonder to behold.
3. Entertainment: There is a 687-seat amphitheater built on the grounds.  At the same time and place every week, (starting in mid-June) artists fill the Little Island with music and dance.  There will also be events, such as concerts, solo, and small bands, teen open mic, comedy, puppetry, and culinary talks to name a few.  Events are recurring and FREE!
4. Food and Soft Drinks:  The Little Island partnered with Savory Hospitality (based in midtown) to offer a wide range of fresh food made from scratch using quality ingredients.  Food offerings range from local baked goods, coffees, lattes to a variety of lunch sandwiches.  They have fun kid’s foods like fried mac and cheese, hot dogs, cupcakes as well as healthy foods.  All food is sourced from local vendors and there will be food trucks as well.
5. Adult-beverages available:  There are 7 micro-brews offered as well as cocktails, hard ciders, seltzers, and wine.  The full menu is available at www.littleisland.org. 
6. An Engineering Feat: A unique collaboration where the engineers worked directly with the contractor.  Little Island Park needs to be seen to be believed!  Trees are staggered at different heights making it look like they have been there for many years.  It took almost 10 years to build.
7. Breathtaking Landscapes: Not only is the island built on tulip-shaped pods, but there are also over 350 different varieties of trees, plants, and flowers creating a stunning landscape!
8. Pandemic Spacing:  There will be crowd control as there are “Timed Entry Reservations.”  The Park opens at 6am.  The advanced ticket reservation system will prevent overcrowding during peak viewing hours.   Advanced ticketing starts at 12 noon.  There is no time limit on how long you may stay once you have entered.
9. Spaces to Chill and Talk: If you want to make a full day of it, there are many benches, quiet spots, and places to sit, chill and talk.
10. Interesting Nicknames: I have read a few nicknames.  My favorite 2 are Dubai on the Hudson and The Park on Stilettos!

There are many people and foundations that give to our city; however, this is the type of gift that keeps on giving.  Thank you to the Diller-Von Furstenberg Family Foundation.  This is what “The American Dream” is all about!