Terry Gross

Garbage expert Benjamin Miller discusses the history of rubbish in New York. He’s the former director of policy planning for the New York City Department of Sanitation. He’s just written a book on the subject, entitled “Fat of the Land: Garbage in New York – The Last 200 Years.” (Four Walls Eight Windows) Miller says that the dumping of garbage has literally shaped New York City as it took over surrounding islands and bulked up Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan.

Actress Christine Baranski. She’s probably best known for her work on the T-V series “Cybill,” in which she played Maryann, the best friend of Cybill Shepherd. She’s currently starring in the T-V sitcom “Welcome To New York” (CBS). She also plays Martha May Whovier in the new film “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” She’s won two Emmys, an American Comedy Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and two Tonys for her theater performances. Her film credits include “Bowfinger,” “Cruel Intentions,” and “The Birdcage.” Her plays include “The Real Thing” and “The House of Blue Leaves.”

We remember actor Werner Klemperer, who played Colonel Klink on the T-V show Hogan’s Heroes. He died on December 7th at the age of 80. He was the son of the conductor Otto Klemperer. He started his career in theater, and moved on to Hollywood. He won two Emmys during his 6 year stint as Klink (he was nominated all six years). In 1987 he returned to Broadway to play a Jewish shopkeeper in a revival of Cabaret. His work earned him a Tony nomination. (5/25/87)