Marian Silverstein's father, the Hon. Harry Smoler, was born in Brownsville, Brooklyn. He was the youngest of five and the only one of his siblings to attend college, graduating from CCNY. After a successful career in commercial real-estate and insurance, Harry pursued his real calling as a public servant for the people of Brooklyn, first as an elected member to Community School Board 22 serving for more than 16 years, and later elected to the New York State Assembly when he was 67 years old. As an Assemblyman, Harry served four years (1978-1982) and advocated for the elderly, Veterans, and for increased educational funding. Harry’s slogan was, “Get involved!” Harry was active in many Jewish causes: Vice-President and Chairman of B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation League, Israel Bond Drive Guest of Honor, Jewish National Fund Dinner Guest of Honor, Shore Park Jewish Center Board of Directors, Kings Bay YM/YWHA Board of Directors, etc. Harry was married to his wife, Hilda, for 42 years, raising their two daughters, Marian and Sheila.