Cary Silverstein

The Mayor of Jackson Heights: Growing Up Jewish in New York in the 1950s Cary Silverstein

This diverse neighborhood in the shadow of LaGuardia Airport was once called "Manhattan's Bedroom." Famous comedians, actors, physicians, scientists, and business leaders called it home, playing stickball in its streets and handball in its schoolyards. The roster of alumni is impressive; it includes comedians John Leguizamo and Don Rickles, NASA scientist Dr. Willey Ley, shock jock Howard Stern, actor Mercedes Ruehl, rock musician Gene Simmons of KISS-and me, Cary Silverstein! Join me as I share stories of my youth, my family, and of why growing up in Jackson Heights had such a profound impact on my life and the lives of others.