Michael Goldstein (Looch)

Memories of growing up on Mermaid Avenue and working games in Coney Island from age twelve

Michael Goldstein,  known as "Looch," worked games in Coney Island for over half a century. He started out in 1954 at age twelve, earning 75 cents an hour, and by his fourth year was a partner in the game. "It was a different era, a different culture," he says. Looch grew up at 2907 Mermaid Avenue in an apartment above Rosenberg's Deli and recalls all the stores and attractions in the neighborhood. His voice and memories are featured in Mermaid Avenue in the 1950's, a film by Charles Denson.

Michael Goldstein passed away on December 16, 2020 at the age of 78.