Roundup: Home Sales, Crossword Contest, Oyster Boat, More

Wesetport’s real estate market continues to sizzle.

44 houses closed in November, up 63% from November 2019. The average closing price was 101.1% of the list price.

The average home spent 148 days on the market, down 38% from November 2019.

There were 72 houses pending (properties with signed contracts) on November 30, with an average list price of $1.96 million. (Hat tip: Chuck Greenlee)

Getting a spot for the Westport Library’s crossword puzzle contest can be tougher than solving a Saturday in the New York Times.

This year, it’s easier than a Monday.

The 22nd annual event is set for Saturday, February 6. This year it’s virtual — so there’s no limit to the number of attendees.

But some things never change. Times puzzle editor Will Shortz will again host. In addition to the puzzles, he’ll offer original word games and answer everything-you-always-wanted-to-know questions.

There are prizes for the winners. And this year — as you solve at home — you won’t have to look at everyone around who has already finished and think, “Wow, I might be the stupidest person here.”

Click here to register.

A small portion of the 130-plus puzzlers last year.

Recent “06880” stories and photos about the Catherine Wedmore oyster boat have intrigued many readers.

But she’s not the only oyster vessel in Long Island Sound.

The S.W. Sheppard regularly plies our waters, near Cockenoe Island. Here she is, hard at work:

(Photo/Jamie Walsh)

The Westport Police Department, Westport Human Services Department and Mental Grit Fitness are partnering for a holiday food drive scheduled. The dates are Thursday and Friday, December 17 and 18 (12 to 4:30 p.m.). The site is the Imperial Avenue parking lot. Contactless drop-off is available, from the trunks of cars.

All donations benefit needy families through Homes with Hope, and those affiliated with the Norwalk chapter of the NAACP.

Non-perishable items needed include:

• Canned, jarred and boxed goods including chicken, salmon, Spam, tuna, fruit, applesauce, vegetables, soups/stews, peanut butter, jelly, pasta sauces, pasta, macaroni and cheese
• Breakfast items like granola, breakfast bars,  cereal
• Toiletries and cleaning products like paper towels, tissues, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, disposable gloves, sponges, sanitizing wipes, laundry detergent.

For more information, contact Andrew Berman: 203-733-1194; andy@mentalgritfitness.com.

And finally … on this date in 1851, the first YMCA in North America opened its doors — in Montreal.