Hello, 
  
My dad was a waiter at the Copa until 1961.  My godfather also worked there.  I remember my mom and I walking my dad to work a number of times when I was a little boy.  I have a Copa menu and a few behind-the-scenes shots on a night when the 1960 Miss America appeared at the Copa. Thanks for putting up this site.  The Copa is a part of New York City history and the pictures and letters bring back great memories back for me. 
  
Best regards, 
Raymond G. Navarrete 
August 4, 2015 

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Hi Raymond, 
  
How nice of you to contact me.  I was delighted to hear from you; thank you for your kind words.  Those years were so special and hold fond memories for many people - like you. 
  
I was wondering what was your dad's first name, your godfather's full name and the years they worked there.  You must have lived somewhat near the club if you and your mom walked there with your dad, unless part of your journey was by subway.   

It was such a different world young people today have no idea.  How nice you have a menu and backstage pictures from when the 1960 Miss America was there.  That must have been quite a night.  Do you remember who was headlining the show or anyone else in it?  In my research I didn't come across it, so it was fun to learn about. 

Thanks again for being in touch,  I would love to hear from you any time. 
  
Best, 
Kris 

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Hi Kris, 
  
Thanks for writing me back. 
   
My father's name was Ray Navarrete; I am named for him.  My godfather's name was Andy Villanueva.  I also remember another waiter named Joe Sinai who was a good friend of my father. 
   
We lived on West 65th just off Central Park West, so it was just a short walk - no subway.  I got to enjoy the subway during my four years of high school traveling from Manhattan to the Bronx. 

Best regards, 
Raymond G. Navarrete 
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Wow! 
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Two days ago I wrote down two names on my memory pad:  Doug Cowdy and Jules Podell. 
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Tonight after a rehearsal for a new musical I am working on out here in California, I 
Googled (isn't this a wonderful thing?) Copacabana and all of this came up. 
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I'm thrilled. I have some pictures of me there in 1968.  I was fortunate enough to be in three lines with different themes each time.  But I will never forget my first opening night and Tom Jones singing "What's New Pussycat." TV coverage was there because it was his first appearance in America.  There's a long list of the top performers I worked with, including Tony Bennett. This was a biggy because his harp player, Corky Hale, introduced me to my future husband, Meco Monardo, who was a trombonist and record producer.   

I have lots of stories, but I'll just finish this off with a thank-you for starting up a place to maybe reconnect with people from a very exciting time in New York history and my life. 
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All my best, 
Osa Danam 
09/11/13 
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Hello Kristin,  

I just came across your website.  I have read your wonderful book.  My name at the Copa was Michele Venet.  I was the youngest, being barely 18 years old.  I was there from September 1961 to January 1962 . . . studying opera at Juilliard during the day and dancing at the Copa at night.  I have some very interesting stories . . . if you are interested in hearing more or having me send a picture. 
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Hello Ms. Baggelaar, 

Allow me to introduce myself.  My name is Georgette Farkas.  I am a native New Yorker and a longtime restaurant business professional.  I have just leased a space to create a new rotisserie restaurant at 14 East 60th Street in NYC.  The elegant yet approachable new spot will be called “Rôtisserie Georgette and is projected to open in September.  Of course, you will recognize the address as that of the former Copacabana.  I am aware of your book and  imagine you to be one of the foremost experts on the subject.  Needless to say, I will most certainly seek out a copy. 
  
In the meantime, I have a quick question for you regarding the old Copa. The space I have leased is on the ground floor and occupies only a narrow sliver at the eastern edge of the building, i.e., the part closest to Madison Avenue.  Do you happen to know if the Copa occupied this area, or was it only in the basement? 
  
I’d be grateful for any response and hope to have the pleasure of meeting you someday.  In the meantime, I wish you great success with your newest book. 

Best regards, 
Georgette Farkas 
01/15/13 

My mom and my aunt were both Copa Girls during the 1947-1948 season.  My mom, Nadia Peterson, is shown below - the blond near the center of the picture.   
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CLICK HERE for much more from Larry about his family heritage.