Lew Anderson - R.I.P.

[Lois Gilbert]

I just received word that Lew Anderson, who has led his big band on Fridays
at Birdland for the past nine years, passed away this morning at the age of
84. Lew is also known for his portrayal of Clarabell the Clown on NBC-TV's
Howdy Doody Show from 1954-60 (I was one of the toddlers who watched him on there). Although the band is expected to continue its Birdland gig for the time being, Lew will be greatly missed.