Roundup: Supreme Party, Christmas Tree Pickup, Larry Johnson …

Last weekend was filled with holiday parties.

But yours probably paled in comparison with the one Andrew Colabella attended.

The Westport Representative Town Meeting member headed to Washington, and a special Supreme Court gathering in their East Conference Room.

He and his date, Viviana Vasiu, hung out with the justices.

And sang Christmas carols led by a great tenor (Chief Justice John Roberts), a gifted alto (Justice Amy Coney Barrett), and some of the high court’s most interesting colleagues and friends.

Andrew calls himself Viviana’s “very lucky” date. She is one of 4 fellows selected each year for a prestigious fellowship program created by former Chief Justice Warren Burger.

Andrew Colabella and Viviana Vasiu, at the Supreme Court party.

This was the fellowship’s first holiday party since 2020.

“I was walking among the brightest and most successful law and policy makers, in the last great cathedral of the United States,” Andrew reports.

All of the justices were “very friendly and warm. They conversed with everyone.”

He says that Viviana is “proof that the American Dream still exists.” She came to the US at 18 from Eastern Europe. After starting at a community college, she graduated at the top of her class at both Stetson University and its law school. He calls himself “her biggest supporter and fan.”

As for Chief Justice Roberts’ excellent singing voice: “He killed it,” Andrew says.

Chief Justice John Roberts leads the caroling. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)

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Can we get $3,348?

That’s all that’s needed for Westport to reach its goal of $60,000. With just $3,348, we can fund two wood pellet machines — and provide heat, all winter long, to 2,000 residents of our sister city: Lyman, Ukraine.

Two anonymous gifts — and many smaller ones — have brought us thisclose to the end of our holiday fund drive.

One donation of $30 can help one family through the long winter. $300 can help 10 families. One gift of $3,000 will put us almost over the top.

To donate by credit card, click here; then click the “I want to support” box; then select “Westport — Lyman Sister City.” Scroll down on the Donate page for other options: mail, wire transfer and Venmo. Thank you!

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Christmas is still 6 days away. We’re sure your tree looks gorgeous.

But a few days after that, you’ll start thinking about how to get rid of it.

As they do every year, Scout Troops 39 and 139 can help.

Their annual Christmas tree pickup is January 6. Just fill out this form.

Then put your tree by your mailbox by 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 6. The suggested donation is $20 per tree (though you can of course give more!). Put it in an envelope (cash or check made payable to “Troop 39”); tape it to you front door.

All trees will be mulched into wood chips, and donated to the town for landscaping projects. Funds raised help pay for Scout activities all year long, and for chipping expenses.

NOTE: Scouts cannot take wreaths or garlands. The wires ruin tree chippers.

Scouts in action last year.

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A raucous home crowd cheered on the Staples High School boys basketball team last night, as they started on the road to their 2nd straight state championship appearance by dominating Newtown, 73-57.

Dozens of young Westport PAL players were in the packed stands. They got an extra-special treat when Larry Johnson — the former New York Knicks and Charlotte Hornets player — joined them.

At halftime, they swamped the ex-pro with autograph requests. Smiling, he signed every one — including a paper towel.

Larry Johnson, and young fans. (Photo/Lisa Newman)

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“Sheppy” has worked at The Home Cook on Saugatuck Avenue for almost 3 years. He’s a key member of the “heat and eat” food service.

After a recent diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes, an infection in his foot required amputation. Owner Stephanie Berghoff organized a GoFundMe fundraiser to help with Sheppy’s significant medical bills.

Click here for more information, and to donate.

Sheppy, of The Home Cook.

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Brian Marsella returns to Westport, for this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, December 21, shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399).

Called “a psychedelic Art Tatum,” the pianist has toured the world. Now he’s back wit bassist Reid Taylor, drummer Brian Floody and saxophonist Greg Wall.

All wowed the Jazz at the Post crowd, earlier this fall.

There’s a $15 music charge. Reservations are highly recommended: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

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Deadman Brook is usually a quiet little waterway, running through town into the Saugatuck River.

Occasionally, heavy rains turn it into a torrent.

That was the case yesterday. Which is why it is today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured image.

Deadman Brook. (Photo/Sal Liccione)

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And finally … in honor of Andrew Colabella’s holiday party invitation (story above):

(The Supreme Court has ruled unanimously: “06880” readers should support their hyper-local blog. They advise: Click here. Thank you!)