Times of Brunswick | Summer 2009

Summer 2009

Crossing the Drake Passage to Antarctica ReLAX with Matt Wheeler ’01 Bruins’ Victory at Henley Royal Regatta

S UMM e r 2 0 0 9

Brunswick School 100 Maher Avenue Greenwich, CT 06830 Tel: 203.625.5800 BrunswickSchool.org

B oard of T r u st e e s 2 0 0 8 – 2 0 0 9

H e adm ast er Thomas W. Philip

Garrett M. Moran Chairman

D irector of D e v e l opm ent Thomas Murray Editor - in -Chi ef Bonni Brodnick bbrodnick@brunswickschool.org Class Notes Editor Libby Edwards ledwards@brunswickschool.org S ports Editor Diana Samponaro dsamponaro@brunswickschool.org Co n tributors Anne Adler, Rhonda Bonom, Diane Briggs, Krista Bruce, Libby Edwards, Leslie Lopez, Jarrett Shine C on tributi n g W rite rs James Baker ’09, Cole Bruno ’17, Alexander Constantine, Connor Fitzpatrick ’09, Nishant Gurnani ’09, Matt Henkel ’11, Janne Kouri ’93, John Martin, Cole Stangler ’09 Cov e r P hoto Chi Chi Ubiña C o n tributi n g Photographers Taryn Angelo, Jason Brand/Highpoint Pictures, Diane Briggs, Dan Burns, Connor Fitzpatrick ’09, Preston Han ’09, Marilyn Hart, Bob Luckey, Jr. and Greenwich Time ©2000 Southern Conn. Newspapers, Inc., The New York Mets, Robert Norman Photography, Sarah Ondaatje, Sarah Palomba, Hank Schless ’10, Paget Stanco, Simon Williams D e sig n e r Good Design LLC www.gooddesignusa.com Pri n tin g Villanti & Sons, Printers, Inc. Milton, Vermont

Richard A. Baker ’84 W. Preston Baldwin III Michael P. Castine Leslie A. Dahl B. Cort Delany ’73 Matthew S. DeSalvo William A. Durkin III ’72 Anne B. Farrell Richard M. Fuscone

Joseph D. Gatto Colvin W. Grannum Jeffrey R. Holzschuh Andrew Jacobson David B. MacFarlane Lisa G. Matthews Sanjeev K. Mehra Ian C. Murray ’93 Shepherd P. Murray ’89 Michael J. Odrich Thomas D. O’Malley, Jr. ’85 Charles Paternina

Clifton S. Robbins William A. Schneider ’72 Henry F. Skelsey Lucy C. Stitzer J. Edward Virtue Peter A. Weinberg Simon J. Williams Tracy R. Wolstencroft Brunswick Parents’ Association Susan M. Breck, President

Brunswick School, founded in 1902, is an independent college-preparatory day school for 895 boys in grades Pre-K through 12. The Upper School grades 9 through 12 have a coordinate program with Greenwich Academy, a neighboring girls’ school. In a community of challenging academics; comprehensive arts, drama and music programs; and 33 varsity and sub-varsity sports teams, time for Brunswick School students is also reserved both for reflection and service to others. We believe in the potential of boys and have successfully developed an educational experience that emphasizes rigorous traditional learning, self-discipline, and character development. The School’s motto, “Courage, Honor, Truth,” is a phrase familiar to students who have graced our halls and one that is followed in both word and deed. For more information, please contact Jeffry Harris, Admission Director, at 203.625.5800 or go to BrunswickSchool.org.

This issue of Times of Brunswick was printed on 100% recycled paper. Mohawk Fine Papers is a national leader in the support of renewable energy projects and 100% of the electricity used by Mohawk is matched with Green-e certified Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) from windpower projects.

The environmental calculations provided here are supplied courtesy of the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Environmental savings for this issue:

Savings from the use of emission-free wind-generated electricity:

50 trees preserved for the future 2,321 lbs. air emissions not generated 142 lbs. waterborne waste not created 5,720 cubic feet natural gas unused 20,993 gallons wastewater flow saved 2,322 lbs. solid waste not generated

In other words the savings from the use of wind-generated electricity are equivalent to:

4,574 lbs. net greenhouse gases prevented

not driving 2,298 miles

35,004,308 BTUs energy not consumed

OR planting 158 trees 100%

Front Cover: Big Brother/Little Brother program in the Lower School Gym.

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F e at u r e s

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10 24 22

D e part m e n ts 2 Message from the Headmaster

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A Few Things I Have Learned

by Janne Kouri ’93

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Crossing the Drake Passage to Antarctica

by Connor Fitzpatrick ’09

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Let Us Take You “Through the Garden Gates”

by Bonni Brodnick

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A Home Run for The M.O.B.

by Alexander Constantine, Middle and Upper School Choral Teacher

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Les Misérables: Our First Major Musical on the Brunswick Stage

by Bonni Brodnick

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ReLAX: Matt Wheeler ’01 Gets Back to the Sport He Loves

by Bonni Brodnick

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Brunswick School Varsity Boat Club’s Timeline for Victory Henley Royal Regatta 2009

by Diana Samponaro Postscript from Assistant Coach John Martin

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Graduation 2009 Celebrated at the 107th Commencement

by Bonni Brodnick

3 Letters to the Editor 28 ’Wick Snippets 36 Sports Round-Up

by Diana Samponaro 46 Beyond the Classroom 48 Brunswick Alumni 60 Class Notes and Faculty Notes 67 In Memoriam 68 Viewpoint: Student Perspective

by Nishant D. Gurnani ’09

Message from the H E ADMA S T E R

The Annual Lower School Wrestling Tournament Although it is months ago since winter wrestling finished, there is a special annual event that occurs at Brunswick that deserves reflection. Each year at the end of February, we hold our annual Lower School Wrestling Tournament and, as Mr. O. (Tim Ostrye, Brunswick School’s athletic director) so often points out, there are few traditions of greater value to our School.

5. The annual nature of the Wrestling Tournament demonstrates our boys’ potential for growth and development. It is a rare boy, indeed, who is in the finals all four of his Lower School years. They do well in some years and less well in others. In so doing, they are likely to observe that this ebb and flow of success tends to hold true for their classmates as well.

Why? Here are a few reasons:

6. The Lower School Wrestling Tournament is a visible affirmation of the enduring power of our community as Middle and Upper School students often take time out of their day to watch the Lower Schoolers toil away on the mat. All of this brings back memories as the older boys watch with fondness the next generations of Brunswick experience a well-known right of passage.

1. Brunswick is an all-boys school, and wrestling is—perhaps more than any other sport—a pure boy event.

2. Wrestling is all about individual effort, determination, and hard work. These values, if learned well, will carry our boys far in life.

“The Lower School Wrestling Tournament is a visible affirmation of the enduring power of our community.”

3. The wrestling tournament is inclusive. At one level or another, every Lower School boy participates.

7. And most importantly, as was literally the case this year, the Lower School Wrestling Tournament, more often than not, falls on or close to the anniversary date of the passing of Mr. Robert L. Cosby, Brunswick School’s past friend, mentor, teacher, coach, and legend.

I know Bob Cosby would agree that there could be no better way to be remembered than through the Lower School Wrestling Tournament, a day centered around a healthy, sportsmanlike, athletic competition enjoyed by the boys whom he loved so much.

4. While we hold firm to the belief that Brunswick at all levels must be a nurturing and supportive place, we are aware of the fact that there are times in one’s life when you win, and times when you lose. It is our objective to teach our boys to be able to successfully, and gracefully, handle both eventualities.

Thomas W. Philip

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Times of Brunswick | Summer 2009

Letters to the E D I TOR

Wint er 2009

The Grace, Innovation,

n

& Devotion of Betty Altma

Henry Baker ’13 Shares His ” Bar Mitzvah with 15 “Twins

Think You Have School

Spirit?

The Reel Deal Q & A: Rob Profusek ’98:

This is a note to congratulate you on what one of my office associates called a “culturally sensitive and socially conscious publication.”

As my wife, Sandi, and I also thumbed through the Times of Brunswick (winter 2009), we could not help but notice the rich portrait of diversity and inclusivity depicted by all the beautiful photographs. This mosaic, coupled with the interesting articles and the use of environmentally friendly materials, creates a publication that looks and feels exceptional in every way.

feelings and thoughts, and the story is an incredible tribute to her.

When you love your job as much as my mother did, you never realize exactly what you have contributed to an institution until you read about yourself in print! Thank you for such a wonderful “ending” to a very long, loved career. My mother misses Brunswick, but has wonderful memories of her years there.

Congratulations, Colvin W. Grannum Brunswick Parent

I wanted you to know how much my mother (Betty Altman) loved the article (“The Grace, Innovation & Devotion of Betty Altman”) that you wrote in Times of Brunswick (winter 2009). You outdid yourself with the photos, research, and heartfelt quotes from people in the community. You captured my mother's

Best, Beth Rosencrans Daughter of Betty Altman and Brunswick Parent

Just wanted to compliment you on the Times of Brunswick (winter 2009). The content is as good as ever, but I particularly like the changes you’ve made in highlighting the efforts to become more environmentally friendly.

Best regards, David MacFarlane Brunswick Parent

Wow! I must admit to burning more than a little midnight oil last night and doing so with my nose in the latest edition of Times of Brunswick (winter 2009). Couldn’t put it down!

I adore the entire issue, starting with your cover photo of Betty Altman, and seeing her commitment to Brunswick through the years. You do a great job of using photos to complement the text, and I like how you focus on those who play supporting roles. Congratulations, on that and all the excellent editorial coverage throughout the book.

And, last but not least, as a sustainability advocate, hats off to you for stepping forward to marry concern for our fragile planet with outreach to the Brunswick family. I very much liked your spelling out on the inside cover specifically the environmental savings for this issue.

Sincerely, Wanda Urbanska Author and producer/host of the nationally syndicated public television series, “Simple Living with Wanda Urbanska”

Like Tom Brayton, who reportedly danced a few steps when he received his copy of Toy Soldier & Model Figure magazine featuring an article about him and his family, I’m dancing a jig because the Times of Brunswick arrived today. My compliments on producing such a slick and professionally done publication.

Fantastic work. Kudos!

All the best, Stuart A. Hessney Editor Toy Soldier & Model Figure Magazine

Erratum We extend our apologies to Justin Smith ’95 for the incorrect information in “Class Notes” (winter 2009). Justin and his wife, Suzanne Farrell, were married on May 30.

We welcome your comments and letters to the editor.

Please contact bbrodnick@brunswickschool.org Summer 2009 | Times of Brunswick

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 Janne and Susan on their wedding day at the Raleigh Hotel in South Beach, Florida.

A Few Things I have learned

By Janne Kouri ’93

“Sisu” is a Finnish word that

means endurance, resilience, bravery, determination, and perseverance.

The Finns have battled against all odds throughout their history and have overcome tremendous challenges. If you have sisu, you fight against these odds, don’t complain, and most of all, you never quit. My father, Dr. Pentti Kouri, was the embodiment of this spirit and it is from him that I pull my strength.

My new life’s journey began on August 5, 2006. An avid athlete, I was participating in a beach volleyball tournament.

Between matches, I decided to take a dip in the ocean to cool off and, like so many times before, I ran into the water and dove through a wave. But, it wasn’t like every other time: under this wave was a sandbar. I hit my head and in an instant, I was paralyzed from the neck down.

Suddenly I was floating on my back, waves crashing over me, wondering what just happened? For a split second, I thought this was “it.” I couldn’t move my body to save myself, and was swallowing a lot of water. I took one last deep breath and hoped for the best. I quickly felt someone pulling me back to shore and everything seemed to be happening so fast. I was in the hospital and the results were in. I fractured my C5 and C6 vertebrae and was told by doctors that I would never walk again. I could write a novel about that one moment in which they said those words. I had a

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Times of Brunswick | Summer 2009

million questions but nobody had any answers. It was terrifying and I realized my life would never be the same.

I knew then that I had only one decision to make: do I want to make something positive out of this situation or just waste away? The decision was simple: take this challenge and do my best to not complain. As Bob Marley, the Jamaican reggae legend said, “Every man gotta right to decide his own destiny.” I knew my path was going to take a lot of hard work and determination, so I had better put a smile on my face.

Today, my wife, Susan, and I celebrate August 5 because I survived! I was given another shot at life and, with it, continue to pursue my dreams to help others to achieve theirs.

August 5 changed my relationship with my wife as well, mostly in positive ways that we never would have expected. My accident made our love stronger. How we go about our lives has changed, but not the substance of our life together. We became kinder and gentler to one another, and the accident taught us that it was okay to reach out and accept help from others. It also taught Susan and me that there are things in life not left up to us. We really can’t control it all.

I spent two months in an acute care ICU battling pneumonia and other complications from my injury, and had two neardeath scares. After ICU, I spent a year at Frazier Rehabilitation Institute in Louisville, Kentucky. I never believed that spending a year in a hospital could be so rewarding. The people I met forever changed me. Not only did they provide the best rehabilitation services and take amazing care of me, they had me laugh everyday. Some of the funniest moments in my life took place at Frazier, and usually in very awkward and uncomfortable situations. I quickly learned that you always have to maintain a good

Janne using the Rickshaw machine for shoulder and tricep strengthening.

sense of humor; otherwise life’s challenges will get the best of you.

Prior to my time at Frazier, my patience level, on a good day, was a one out of ten. When I got there, I wanted to experience monumental improvements every day, but soon learned that I had to take pride in small achievements and keep working hard and staying focused. For the first time in my life, I realized that patience truly is a virtue.

Ready to return home and after extensive research, Susan and I learned that there was a tremendous lack of progressive rehabilitation resources in Southern California for the physically disabled to recover, not just maintain. Being surprised at how small my options were, we decided it was our responsibility to do something about it.

A few years before my injury, I had spoken about wanting to focus on charitable endeavors, so the decision to start Nextstep Fitness was easy. With the help of my family, friends, and the guiding influence of Dr. Susie Harkema—one of the preeminent neuroscientists in the field of human locomotion—we launched our nonprofit, state-of-the-art, community-based fitness facility that brings cutting-edge training methods, procedures, and technologies to rehabilitation for spinal injury, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and traumatic brain injury victims in Southern California.

Our mission is to provide services at an affordable cost to those who need it most. We believe that the opportunity to recover should not be afforded only to those with means. Everyone deserves access to the best care available to help him or her recover.

It is difficult to make sense of all that has happened in my life in the last three years, but I want to share a few last things that I have learned throughout my journey.

There are many wonderful causes, and many people who need your help and support. Start now and commit yourself to

your cause. Remember, it’s not about you. It’s about those whose lives you seek to change for the better.

Most importantly, when faced with overwhelming challenges, don’t waste energy complaining. Attack it head on. Stay positive.

Never quit. After being told I would never walk again, I recently took my first steps with a walker across our gym.

Our mission at Nextstep Fitness is to help others so that they, too, can begin a journey to recovery and continue to always achieve great things . . . one step at a time. j

This story is written in loving memory of my father, Dr. Pentti Kouri, who passed away January 21.

To learn more about NextStep Fitness, please visit nextstepfitness.org or contact Janne at jannek@nextstepfitness.org

“…I was told by doctors that I would never walk again. I could write a novel about that one moment in which they said those words. I had a million questions but nobody had any answers.”

Summer 2009 | Times of Brunswick

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Crossing the Drake Passage to Antarctica

By Connor Fitzpatrick ’09

W

hile most of my friends were off to the tropics for their Senior year spring break, I joined an expedition to somewhere far cooler (literally)—Antarctica, the last frontier on earth. The continent remains one of the most remote and inhospitable environments, covered by over 5 million square miles of solid ice. With record low temperatures of -89 Celsius, it is the coldest, driest, and windiest place on the globe.

The journey began when Robert Swan, OBE, came to speak at Brunswick this past winter. In 1989, he became the first man to walk to both the North and South Poles. Since then, he has founded 2041, an environmental organization working towards the protection of the Environmental Protocol of the Antarctic Treaty. As an activist, Rob Swan successfully removed over 1,500 tons of waste from the Antarctic Peninsula, was the keynote speaker at the world’s first Earth Summit in 1992 in Rio de Janeiro, and has established the first education base in Antarctica. After his lecture and slide presentation, at Brunswick I was hooked on his mission.

Paul Withstandley, Upper School Spanish teacher and Senior Class Dean, decided to take the 10-day expedition with me. On March 14, after nearly 26 hours of continuous travel, we landed in Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world.

As the crew loaded our ship—RV Akademik Ioffe—with provisions, our expedition team hiked Ushuaia’s unknown gem, the Glaciar Martial, to prepare us for the challenges ahead. On March 17, after three days in Argentina acclimating, we departed for Antarctica via the Beagle Channel. The Akademik Ioffe is an active, working Russian research vessel. In between expeditions to the polar regions, she is often occupied by European scientists who study various aspects of benthos composition and oceanic temperatures. It was through a special arrangement that we were able to sail aboard such an exceptionally capable ship for our expedition. An official Argentinean pilot came aboard to guide us through the narrow passage since the Beagle Channel can be extremely hazardous at night.

After two days crossing the fearsome Drake Passage, we arrived in Antarctic waters, and landed on King George Island, home to bases of many nationalities, including Russia, Uruguay, Chile, and Korea. 2041 was the first organization to build a base solely for educational purposes in the Antarctic. The “E-Base” made history last year when Rob and his team broadcasts live from Antarctica to schools around the globe, relying solely off of renewable energy. This year, our team took it to the next level: E-Base is now capable of broadcasting educational content to the world—365 days a year—off of

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Times of Brunswick | Summer 2009

Paul Withstandley (Upper School Spanish teacher and Senior Class Dean), Robert Swan, OBE (polar explorer and environmental leader), and Connor Fitzpatrick ’09 in Antarctica.

Summer 2009 | Times of Brunswick

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wind and solar energy. Because the batteries at the base discharge a small amount of heat when they are fully charged, we are even able to heat E-Base with renewable technologies. If we can successfully implement green technologies in the harshest environment in the world, why can’t we do it at home?

Once we departed E-Base and King George Island, the 2041 group steamed into the Weddell Sea to visit a famous location aptly titled “Iceberg Alley.” As a result of a large oceanic gyre, icebergs become trapped in this one specific area and form fast ice, a particular iceberg that is grounded on the sea floor. In our case, we were exploring waters that were nearly 80 meters deep. Just as we were about to seek shelter from the harsh wind and extreme cold, several humpback whales breached off the starboard bow of the ship.

For the next several days, we moved down the Gerlache Strait exploring Wilhelmina Bay, Cuverville, Paradise Bay, and Neko Harbour. In order to show us both sides of the human damage spectrum, Rob showed us how virgin certain areas can be (Wilhelmina Bay), and how altered others can be (Neko Harbour).

Because we did not want to leave any traces behind, we decided to not go ashore in Wilhelmina Bay. Instead, we motored around icebergs in our inflatable Zodiacs. Because of the krill concentration in this area, there is an abundance of seals, whales, and seabirds. When I looked upwards, all I could see were walls of deep blue ice formed several thousand years ago. I have never seen anything as amazing as 1,000-foot-tall walls of ice on all sides of me. Sadly, when we landed at Neko Harbour, all we saw were remnants of a Chilean base. It was a tragedy to see how people can be so careless as to discard waste without regard to the environment. While no country has recog8

Times of Brunswick | Summer 2009

nized claims on the Antarctic, as a result of the Antarctic Treaty, there have been an increasing number of new constructions in the event that the treaty is not renewed in the year 2041.

As I was standing on the bridge of our ship before we turned back north via Drake Passage, the VHF radio crackled to life. “All mariners be advised of an impending Force 10 gale.” I had no idea how rough the return trip would truly be. We encountered waves that were nearly 65 feet from trough to crest, and winds up to 65 mph. Thankfully, neither Mr. Withstandley nor I are affected by motion sickness.

The Antarctic is one of the last true wildernesses on the planet Earth. It is our job to protect it from exploitation, be it mining, drilling, or global warming. Over 90 percent of the world’s freshwater is locked up in nearly 13.72 million km2 of ice. I hate to admit it, but I had to travel to the ends of the Earth to realize that immediate action needs to be taken to reverse society’s damage.

During a meeting with Rob, I heard a student from Canada's Northwest Territories describe how his family’s livelihood has been destroyed as a result of global warming. All of their homes are sinking into the ground because the permafrost is melting.

When our team heard this, all 79 of us from 28 different nations pledged to “Think Global, Act Local.” I have learned that we need to show people that we mean business through actions, and not just words. As we proved at E-Base, sustainable solutions are the key to modern societies’ success and survival. Rob’s lifelong goal has been to inspire people and get them to believe the journey is possible by taking small achievable steps.

The time has come to transition from the inconvenient truth, to the convenient solution. j

The time has come to transition from the inconvenient truth, to the convenient solution.

Summer 2009 | Times of Brunswick

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L e t u s Ta k e Yo u

“Through the Garden Gates”

By Bonni Brodnick

On this April afternoon, daffodils, andromeda, pansies, tulips, hyacinths, and forsythia were all abloom in Greenwich. Burke Field House equally embraced the glorious season as Brunswick celebrated “Through the Garden Gates,” our 57th biennial spring fashion show and luncheon. This always-anticipated mother-son Brunswick tradition, which started in 1944, brings back many former parents to what has truly become a community event.

“We are grateful to Brunswick Parents’ Association president, Suzy Breck, along with the graceful leadership of her benefit cochairs—Rene Chronert, Elizabeth Darling, and Nonie Mackin— for orchestrating countless details and months of planning to make this appear to happen effortlessly,” said Headmaster Thomas W. Philip in his welcome remarks.

“Our thanks also go to the tireless efforts of our BPA, who collectively made our spring event all that it is,” he continued.

“Although we face great uncertainty with regard to our nation’s economy, it has been reassuring to witness the outpouring of such tremendous support from many loyal Greenwich businesses, as well as Brunswick parent’s students, faculty members, and friends.

It’s remarkable, but true, that today’s festivities were made possible almost entirely through contributions and the ability of the talented committees to incur minimal expense. All proceeds will support a growing and essential School need, financial aid.”

Lisa and Richard Baker (Class of ’84, parent, and Board Trustee) were acknowledged for bringing us Lord & Taylor and their exquisite designs, and for providing raffle donations, party favors, and more. Kudos also went to designer Joseph Abboud and the crew from the Lord & Taylor Stamford location for all of their sartorial assistance.

“When I was in 11th grade and a waiter at the 1983 benefit, I never imagined that I’d one day sponsor an upcoming spring fashion luncheon,” Mr. Baker said to the roomful of assembled guests seated on what was, the day before, a basketball court. The shiny pine-floor gymnasium was transformed by Roberto Fernandez Landscaping into a lush garden-party setting resplendent with flower arrangements, urns of hydrangeas, ranunculus, indoor ivies, and Bruin Bear topiaries.

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Meanwhile … before we actually go “Through the Garden Gates,” let’s go backstage to the wrestling room, now the hot spot for beautification where hair and makeup artists were styling, poofing, and powdering Brunswick moms for their upcoming walk of fame. Behind the scenes, the scent of hairspray was in the air.

Clothes were organized on racks according to fashion show segment and everyone had the flutters.

“I feel like a little girl in dress up,” said Anne Castine, as she prepared to walk the runway in a stunning gold-beaded Flapper dress.

“You have to meet Uncle Jack! You have to meet Uncle Jack!” five different people told this reporter.

Well, this Uncle Jack was unlike any I had ever met. Sporting a black short-sleeve T-shirt with the word “Metallica” in sequins across the chest, and wearing gold lamé sneakers, the guy was pure style.

“The whole point of this is to have fun,” said Jack Alexander (AKA Uncle Jack), an internationally renowned freelance fashion show producer just in from producing a show in Los Angeles for Oscar de la Renta. “I’ve worked with supermodels around the world. Today, the Brunswick moms are my Giseles.”

To create the fashion show segment of the luncheon gathering, Uncle Jack was given a store and an empty rack. With Lord & Taylor as his literal closet, his charge was to pull together and style dresses and evening gowns for the moms; business suits, shirt, ties, and shoes for the fathers and teachers; and shorts, T-shirts, and flip-flops for the boys.

“Who wants to see the teachers in something they always wear?”

Jack asked. Thus, the high fashion suits selected for Mike Harris (Upper School math), Hector Marban (Pre- and Lower School Spanish), Seth Potter (Upper School theater), and Jim Stephens (Middle School math).

“We’re having a great time,” exclaimed Seth as he donned his fancy duds. “It’s also fun to watch the Seniors and their moms.

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I think they recognize the life transition that’s taking place with graduation coming up soon.”

Jim Stephens was bedecked in a chic Ted Baker “Endurance” suit that had a one-button, silk-lined jacket with topstitched lapels.

It looked like something that would work well in Vegas. “I’m just happy they didn’t make me wear a Speedo,” Jim said.

“Good Day Sunshine,” by The Beatles, was on the designer play list to open the fashion show. When the music went up, forks were rested, lips were dabbed, and the audience sat up straight. Let the show begin! Models, who had been coached for days on how to walk a runway, strutted out in splendid fashions by L & T.

It was precious to behold the sentimental expressions of the Seniors’ moms as their sons escorted them down the runway. When the moms let go to spin and show off their billowy satin evening dresses, their boys gave them the once-over and seemed to recognize how beautiful their moms looked at this special moment.

After the luncheon and fashion show, Times of Brunswick caught up with a Brunswick Senior mom à la model to ask the how-to of an elegant runway strut.

“You walk to the end, pause, point, pivot, and go back to our boys,” she said befittingly as she turned to kiss her son’s cheek. “It’s always back to our boys.” j

“You walk to the end of the runway, pause, point, pivot, and go back to our boys,” she said befittingly as she turned to kiss her son’s cheek. “It’s always back to our boys.”

Summer 2009 | Times of Brunswick

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By Alexander Constantine,

Middle & Upper School Choral Teacher Take Me Out to the Ball Game! One of the most anticipated and revered trips for all fathers and their sons (or their daughters) is a day at the baseball park to watch a major league game.

This sacred outing might include a home team T-shirt and baseball cap, and maybe even a new mitt tucked in as a surprise on this super-bonding excursion. I was honored to have experienced the same thrill when 21 “sons,” a few faculty “dads,” and I were about to go on the field trip of a lifetime: the Men Of Brunswick (M.O.B.) a cappella group were singing the national anthem at the stunning new Citi Field where the top-ranked New York Mets were about to face the Atlanta Braves.

Well, someone had to sing that day, and why not us?

Take Me Out With the Crowd! The excitement began the moment we stepped onto the Metro North train heading south to NYC. We were decked out in new, sleek, black, microfiber windbreakers with the initials M.O.B. and the overlaying words “Men Of Brunswick” monogrammed in gold. Our faces were lit with mile-long smiles. Chatter was mixed with information from those who had already been to Citi Field, and others were sharing their thoughts on how this memorable night would unravel. The two chaperons that joined us took the opportunity to catch 40 winks in order to be fueled with energy to belt out “Root, root, root for the home team!” later that evening.

Buy Me Some Peanuts and Cracker Jack! After reaching our stop, we hurried off the train, stood on the platform, and gazed at Citi Field as if it were Emerald City awaiting our arrival. Adrenaline rushes began and the “dads” called out “Wait for me!” as we rushed down the subway steps.

We were welcomed at the gate by our contact and hospitality escorts, who graciously whisked us past security for a grand tour of the newly opened home of the Mets. “Oohs” and “wows” were exclaimed every time we turned a corner.

“If you look to the right, that’s Jerry Seinfeld’s private suite,” our hostess informed us. “And if you look to the left, you’ll see the Mets owner’s private suite, where you’ll be today.”

Minutes later, we were on the field for a sound check.

“Be careful not to step on the grass!” we were warned as we approached our mics. I gave the M.O.B.s their cue, and their

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notes rang out beautifully. It was a surreal experience to be standing adjacent to second base singing the national anthem at Citi Field. Pinch me!

We were given one run-through and then headed to the stands to watch hitting practice. It was pure magic and we were only 45 minutes into our stay.

When we arrived at suite #205, everyone raced to the balcony to check out the view. Spectacular! After the initial reaction to location, location, location settled down, the boys were like hungry pups as they picked up the scent of popcorn, peanuts and, of course, Cracker Jack. Snacks were devoured within minutes as the boys continued watching batting practice in their new digs.

I Don’t Care If I Never Get Back! During the first hour in our “holding room,” we were joined by a number of parents, siblings, and faculty members. Excitement began to grow and our Brunswick/Greenwich guests treated us like rock stars with hugs and high-fives. After a group picture, we filed through staircases and tunnels, and were greeted by the Wilpon family. The boys expressed their gratitude for their giving us the opportunity to sing at the game opening.

A long hallway with a door at the end led us to our ultimate destination: the stadium playing field. Conversation suddenly stopped and all eyes turned to me for the signal to head out to meet 30,000 of our closest friends.

As we walked across the path to our position in front of the mics, yips and yays resounded from suite #205. We waved back with a thumbs-up. I was previously given a script with explicit instructions to begin the national anthem on the downbeat the minute my name was announced.

You mean everyone is going to hear MY NAME? Wait, I need to call my mother and tell her! I have to call my high school chorus teacher and . . . too late! The announcement started. Our hearts pounded. The boys were like jockeys at the starting gate.

“Oh, say can you see …” they sung. I glanced at the giant video screen, which was projecting “Men Of Brunswick.”

A jet flying overhead added to the imagery during “… and the rocket’s red glare.”

Fans cheered as the last phrase, “… and the home of the brave” created a crescendo into the final chord. The boys and I waited until we were back in our holding place before jumping for joy. They had done a great job and the party was just beginning.

If They Don’t Win, It’s a Shame! Back at the suite, we were greeted by thunderous praise. Though the game was only in first inning, our M.O.B. fan club clearly declared us the winners. Ties were undone, jackets taken off, and dinner plates were piled with ballpark fare. Many of the real dads joined their sons and headed to the balcony for a bird's-eye view of the playing field.

Everyone was a Mets fan that night. The boys cheered each time someone made it to home plate. They enthusiastically greeted Mr. Met when he knocked at the door of the suite, and laughed hysterically at the unpredicted streaker

who ran the bases. The boys thanked Brunswick’s entourage with appreciation and elation.

The Mets won and I wondered whether we were one of their many lucky charms. When we left the stadium, I felt a sense of pride that only a teacher or parent could relate to.

M.O.B. made history. We were nationally televised to fans who may never have heard of Brunswick School, and who would hopefully remember us for what we had accomplished.

Goodnight, Citi Field. Until next time…

at the old ball game! j

Thank you to Jack Norworth, who, in 1908, sketched out the words to “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” on a piece of scrap paper while riding the train into the city to see a baseball game.

Photo Credit: The New York Mets15

Summer 2009 | Times of Brunswick

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Times of Brunswick | Summer 2009

Les Misérables Our First Major Musical on the Brunswick Stage

By Bonni Brodnick

The Brunswick Upper School Theater Department has a brilliant cast of teachers: Andrew Hall, chair of visual and performing arts; Seth Potter, theater teacher; Alexander Constantine, musical director; Matthew Kirby-Smith (Kirby), theater technology; and Abby Redmond, costume designer. Their collaboration on Les Misérables, the first major musical in the new Baker Theater, was nothing short of a “wow” experience for students, parents, and three sold-out audiences. In fact, the Brunswick School production created an echoing “wow” that will long be remembered.

Mr. Potter adapted Les Miz from the original musical script written by French composer Claude-Michel Schonberg. Brunswick's rendition of the production was performed with élan and passion as the plot follows the journey of Jean Valjean (Tim O’Leary ’09), a French convict who recreates himself as an honest man and promises Fantine (Holly Linneman GA ’09) his devotion to protect her young daughter Cosette (Rebekah Lowin GA ’10). The story develops as Cosette falls in love with student/revolutionary Marius (Kyle Radler ’09) just as France is on the cusp of revolution in 1789. Marius returns Cosette’s affections but remains blind to the feelings of his best friend, Eponine (Tory Berner GA ’10), who is secretly and madly in love with him. Throughout the struggles, these characters face Detective Javert (Robbie Cortes ’09), a man who has devoted himself to the law, tirelessly pursuing Jean Valjean across France. Innkeepers Monsieur Thenardier (Jack Carter ’09) and Madame Thenardier (Sarah O’Leary GA ’11), parents of Eponine and previous caretakers for Cosette, brought levity to the performance with their foppish and fribbled antics.

Sixth graders Alex Montinaro ’15, Lexie Olney (GA ’15), and Sophie Skinner (GA ’15) helped round out the production with their spritely energy.

“Les Misérables was a truly special performance. Everyone’s hard work came together to capture the essence of the play,” wrote Will Seaton ’09 in a review in The Brunswick Chronicle. “The everlasting values of love, passion, sacrifice, and morality were on full display among a cast who seriously overachieved in the most impressive of ways to create a final product that was nothing short of masterful.”

Summer 2009 | Times of Brunswick

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After the fanfare and great reviews, Times of Brunswick met up with Seth, Alexander, Abby and Kirby in the Black Box (which is literally that: a black box with no windows) to talk about their collective theatric accomplishment. Amidst racks and boxes of period clothing, shoes, boots, wigs, and accessories, they talked about the artistic renaissance taking place at Brunswick School since the new Performing Arts Center and Baker Theater opened in September 2008.

SETH: We were nothing if not ambitious by taking on Les Miz for our first major musical production on the Brunswick stage in Baker Theater.

ALEXANDER: The timing was definitely right. Not many schools would tackle a show of this magnitude, especially since it is of the opera genre, but we have an amazing pool of talent from which to draw. We have great singers and actors from Brunswick and Greenwich Academy who both mastered their roles and exceeded our expectations.

SETH: It was the school edition of the musical, so we broke down the staging and blocking. There were four units on casters for ten different looks. All of the units were moved by the actors, which made the kids responsible for the entire production. They also had to operate the sound- and light-boards.

ALEXANDER: Not to mention the fact that we had to come up with an adequate number of musicians for our pit who could cover all the major parts without it sounding like we shortchanged the actors. Les Miz calls for a full orchestra, three keyboards, two percussionists and a conductor.

For the show, we had five musicians, which maxed out our pit space, but they sounded great accompanying the show.

KIRBY: Seth, Abby, Alexander and I have connections with the theater world, so we bartered with others to get some of the stage units, props, and costumes. It’s great for the kids to see. You save money by bartering, but there’s also friendship behind helping your colleagues in this way.

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Times of Brunswick | Summer 2009

ABBY: For example, we needed to borrow a few wedding dresses. One of my theater colleagues owed me a favor from another show when I helped him out.

Les Misérables Principal Cast List Valjean............................................... Tim O’Leary Fantine.......................................... Holly Linneman Cosette............................................Rebekah Lowin Marius...................................................Kyle Radler Javert................................................ Robbie Cortes Thenardier............................................ Jack Carter Mme. Thenardier..............................Sarah O’Leary Eponine............................................... Tory Berner

SETH: Kirby’s drama colleagues at Yale owed him a favor, too, so one Saturday he was up in New Haven welding shadow boxes.

KIRBY: People help one another out.

SETH: It’s the glory of struggle. Theater is a tangible process in which many can participate.

ABBY: And for a production like Les Miz, there was a lot of work to be done.

ALEXANDER: The good news was that we had so many parents who were on-board with what we were doing.

They were thrilled that their kids were so excited about doing Les Miz, and that enthusiasm carried over to their helping us with each aspect of the production.

ABBY: The Brunswick moms were like my costume shop apprentices. They were amazing! More than 30 volunteered to help sew, prop, distress clothes, and dress the characters. A few attended a makeup seminar and several Brunswick dads helped build sets on the weekends. There were also a few students helping as dressers. Honestly, we couldn’t have done this without everyone’s help.

SETH: And although we have this incredible new theater space and lighting technology, it’s not all about “the product.”

It’s also about the process.

ALEXANDER: That was the most valuable aspect of the show. The kids became so engaged in what they were doing. The progress and the depth of their individual development during the rehearsal period were astounding. As a teacher, this is one of the most exhilarating aspects of what we do with our students.

KIRBY: There are both artistic and academic parts to it.

Summer 2009 | Times of Brunswick

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ABBY: For wardrobe, for example, I needed to research the period costumes before I could start drawing them. First, I got a cast list from Seth, compared it to the script, and then broke it down by character. Then I made a chart and tried to pull extensively from the stock we purchased.

Designs were according to the script and historical costume references.

I know the time period and what we had on the racks, so I sketched out the show, and decided how many costumes we would need. There were 85 costumes in Les Miz. We cobbled it together by combing thrift shops and creating looks from other sources.

KIRBY: It was great for the kids to see the professional level of drawings that Abby does as the costume designer.

SETH: Some people look at old prom dresses from the ’80s and say, “OMG!” Abby looks at them and says, “Yessssss!”

ABBY: We have basic stuff, but leave it to the kids to bring it alive. It’s just fabric until the actor puts it on.

SETH: This is the first class of students who are making Brunswick theater their home.

ALEXANDER: And they will remember it for the rest of their lives. We had a few alums come back during rehearsals who wished that they could have been a part of all of this.

ABBY: The parents and alums were as excited as the cast. There was a sense of ownership. Everyone was eager to help us create the best product we could.

SETH: Theater lends itself to a grand collaboration. For Les Miz, we had four producers, two stage managers, two assistant stage managers, a sound-board operator, a light-board operator, two spotlight operators, five assistants to help Abby in wardrobe, and five on the deck crew. But aside from that, it takes good morale to make this all work.

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Times of Brunswick | Summer 2009

Morale makes sure the company is okay. It helps the students encourage and embrace one another. It’s key that folks get along. There might be 50 actors on stage at once. They need to physically create a balance.

ABBY: Everyone is collectively involved with supporting and relying on one another. Trust is crucial.

SETH: It can be hard, challenging, and scary for someone to belt out a song. The kids are putting themselves on the line. It can be especially daunting for a big show like Les Miz. ALEXANDER: I had great singers to work with, as well as singers who are a little on the shy side but willing to give it their all and to be trusting with the development of their talent. The fact is they loved the songs and they loved singing them. Who could ask for anything more?

KIRBY: You put yourself out there and you do it. If it doesn’t work—say you have a sore throat—everyone supports you.

“The magic of it is that it always comes together.

What’s that phrase?

‘Reach for the moon.

If you miss, you’ll land among the stars’”

SETH: We’re a company. And it works because everyone is working his or her butt off. There’s dedication to one another and to the success of the production.

KIRBY: There are a lot of life lessons for a theatric company.

ALEXANDER: This entire production involves students who didn’t know each other at the start of our rehearsals. There were students of varying ages and grade levels (6th–12th) and students of varying backgrounds. This is what theater does … it brings a lot of different people together to produce one singular sensation.

ABBY: “The magic of it is that it always comes together. What’s that phrase?

‘Reach for the moon. If you miss, you’ll land among the stars’” j

Summer 2009 | Times of Brunswick

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Photo Credit: Bob Luckey, Jr. and Greenwich Time ©2000 Southern Conn. Newspapers, Inc.

m o c . s t i u r c e R e s s o r c a L

Mention lacrosse and Matt Wheeler ’01 is ready to pick up the stick and get back in the game. Which is exactly what he did with business partner, Chris Meade, when they launched their new business venture, LacrosseRecruits.com.

Matt, who played goalie at Brunswick, met up with Chris at

Wesleyan, where they were four-time letter winners and captains of the LAX team. During senior year, they were big league as the school received its first-ever bid to the NCAA tournament, advancing to the quarterfinals.

Re L AX Matt Wheeler ’01 Gets Back to the Sport He Loves

By Bonni Brodnick

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Times of Brunswick | Summer 2009

 Matt Wheeler ’01 and Chris Meade

Upon graduation, Matt headed into Manhattan to work as a senior risk analyst for a leading reinsurance intermediary. Chris was an associate in a group representing top financial clients. Meanwhile, on distant playing fields, their favorite sport was growing 20 percent a year at the high-school level. Inspired by complaints from college lacrosse coaches at a recent tournament, Chris wrote Matt a long email about how there were too many high-school players for coaches to give fair recruitment evaluation. For players, it was getting harder to market themselves to college coaches. Chris’s missive ended up being the groundwork for a new technology that would allow coaches to locate players based on position, gather GPA and SAT scores, and view highlight clips in one spot. Matt immediately jumped on board and the planning started.

Google LacrosseRecruits.com. It’s an innovative college lacrosse recruiting website that simplifies the process by allowing players to put their profiles and videos in front of every college lacrosse coach in the country ... in one click. The exposure costs a fraction of the price of camps and tournaments. And with the economy in a nosedive, coaches’ travel budgets have been pinched. Going off to LAX hotbeds and smaller places is more of a challenge.

“Next year there will be about 250,000 kids in the sport,” Matt said. “There’s no way the NCAA programs can keep pace.

There will be more and more people at the top of the funnel and no more placement spots at the bottom. LacrosseRecruits.com virtually levels the playing field so that LAX-ers across the country can connect with college coaches and have equal opportunity for recruitment. Coaches can see more players in one round-up and

College coaches from Division I though Division III schools—including Wesleyan, Loyola, Brown, Tufts, University of Pennsylvania, and Lynchburg—have taken notice of this athlete recruitment booster.

“Matt and Chris have done a great job developing a technology that has everything a coach could want to recruit top-notch players,” said John Raba, head lacrosse coach/athletic department recruiting coordinator at Wesleyan. “The tool is easy to use and has all the functionality, including a video link to see right off the bat, if an athlete is a good fit for the team’s needs.

Sending DVDs, school transcripts, and other materials separately throughout the year can get confusing. LacrosseRecruits.com has all of this info right at your fingertips. It takes a lot of stress off students, parents, and coaches.”

Jeff Harris, Brunswick School Director of Admission and Matt’s former lacrosse coach saw his perseverance at the onset.

“Matt has always struck me as someone who was confident and ready to take on new challenges,” said Harris. “He was a winning goalie and always gave his best effort. I’m sure he’ll do the same in his new venture.”

“One of the many life-lessons I learned at Brunswick was perseverance, which you definitely need when you start your own company,” Matt said. “My teachers and coaches treated us like adults, expected us to act like them, and respected us as responsible individuals. We were challenged and encouraged to

“One of the many life-lessons I learned at Brunswick was perseverance. My teachers and coaches treated us like adults, expected us to act like them, and respected us as responsible individuals. We were challenged and encouraged to think on our own. It was the perfect preparation for launching LacrosseRecruits.com.” players get wider exposure to be recruited by the right school.”

After months of preparation—writing a business plan, marketing, strategizing, and raising money—LacrosseRecruits.com went live on July 1, 2008, for male lacrosse players. Five months later, they launched LacrosseRecruits.com for female lacrosse players. The Wheeler/Meade team is constantly making improvements to the website and the lacrosse community has taken notice with over 100,000 page views in the first six months.

think on our own. It was the perfect preparation for launching LacrosseRecruits.com.”

With this ultimate recruiting website up and running for lacrosse, FieldHockeyRecruits.com, SoccerRecruits.com and VolleyballRecruits.com are not far behind. j

For more info, see LacrosseRecruits.com or contact Matt at matt@lacrosserecruits.com.

Summer 2009 | Times of Brunswick

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B r u n swick S choo l B oat C l u b ’ s T i m e l i n e for V ictory

Henley Royal Regatta 2009

By Diana Samponaro

While summer began for most Brunswick students sometime after graduation and the conclusion of final exams in May, a few of our athletes took on an additional challenge. Seniors Peter Haley, Bridges King, Øivind Lorentzen, Chan Mahaney, Turner Smith, Christian Stanco, and Ed Williams, along with under classmen Peter Chu, Duncan Fraser, Ryan Gartin, Captain-elect Lawrence Lopez-Menzies, and Hank Schless began a rigorous training schedule. From May 26 and continuing to June 15, they practiced on the Mianus River at 6:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. in order to be fully prepared for the privilege of competing in the Henley Royal Regatta on the beautiful Thames River in Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, England.

Arriving in the U.K. on June 17, their training transitioned to rowing intensely on the Henley course. Positions in the boat were reorganized and the team became accustomed to rowing in their borrowed Empacher, “The Lady Nina.” Prior to the Henley Regatta, the team rowed in the Marlow Regatta on Dorney Lake, the location of the Eton College Rowing Centre and the future site of the rowing events at the 2012 London Olympics.The first day of Henley competition, July 1, Brunswick defeated Oxford’s Canford School, celebrating a 3¼ length victory and making school history. Brunswick School Boat Club’s (BSBC) previous two trips to Henley did not merit

a victory. July 2 found our Bruins facing the Gonzaga College High School team from Washington, D.C., a team that defeated Brunswick by over 13 seconds in the Stotesbury Regatta.

In this race however, the Bruins won by 1¼ lengths. “Nobody gave us that much of a chance to go farther against them,” said Coach Joe Falco. “To get that kind of performance against a crew that pretty much manhandled you not too long before was a phenomenal accomplishment.”

In the quarterfinals against London’s Latymer Upper School on July 3, Brunswick again shocked the competition, winning by one length. Brunswick advanced to the semifinals in the singleelimination Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup, which is a truly remarkable accomplishment for an unseeded team. We can only imagine the excitement and pride that all of the parents and fans shared with our crew at the thought of racing in the semifinals on our nation’s national holiday.

On July 4, in the semifinals, Brunswick rowed against Oxfordshire’s Abingdon School, a team that many said was one of the best around. According to Coach Falco, “they were definitely the favorite and they had hundreds of people lining the course yelling for them to win. We would have liked to have won it, but it was still a really great race to be a part of—one of those races that you dream about rowing in.”

Below are excerpts of blog entries written by Brunswick school boat club team members

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Saturday, June 20

Monday, June 22

Wednesday, June 24

Sunday, June 28

“Since our early morning arrival in the U.K. on June 17, we’ve been getting used to our daily lives over here. We’re living with a host family, the Atkinsons, in the center of Henley, which is located close to both the river and the middle of town. It’s been great rowing up and down the Henley course before the other competitors arrive. After practicing six times in two days, we transported our boat to Dorney Lake to race in the Marlow Regatta.” ~ Captain Turner Smith ’09/Stroke

“After a weekend at the 2012 Olympic rowing venue, we have returned “The Lady Nina” to its designated slot in the Henley regatta boat tent. The experience at Dorney was fantastic. The racing scene was eye-opening, but as amazing as it was to watch and race with some of the best, it was time to return to Henley as the main event nears by the second.” ~ Ed Williams ’09/Five Seat

“This afternoon we enjoyed the company of rivals from our homeland, Kent School. They are not in the Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup so we can piece them safely without anticipating the possibility of drawing them.

We lined up at the start with a whipping quartering tail wind and raced them to the end of the island, roughly the starting 250 meters. After our poorest start of the week, we found ourselves three seats up, purely by means of brute force.” ~ Øivind Lorentzen ’09/Two Seat

“The team’s spirits were high today. After a great row this afternoon, we are all optimistic.

For our first race, we are lucky to get an evening row because many of us have a rough time waking up in the morning. With only a few more practices left, the team is more focused than ever.” ~ Peter Haley ’09/Bow Seat and Chan Mahaney ’09/Seven Seat

Times of Brunswick | Summer 2009

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1. Upon arrival at Henley-on-Thames, the team headed right to the Boat Tent and was greeted by this beautiful landscape looking down the Thames.

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2. Brunswick defeats London's Latymer Upper School in the quarterfinals.

3. Lawrence LopezMenzies ’10 leads the First Boat to their first race in England at the Marlow Regatta, located at the site of the 2012 Olympics.

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Photo Credit: Sarah Ondaatje

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Monday, June 29 “The lawn in front of the boat tent is so packed that we can hardly get our boat out of the tent. During this morning’s practice, we brushed with the Yale lightweight alums who refer to themselves as ‘Four Score and Four Rowing Club.’

We had a successful piece and ended up winning by a length of open water. During the afternoon practice, we went out for an abbreviated row. Our plan was to go up and down the course twice.

4. The Eton College Boathouse.

5. Off the start at the Marlow Regatta.

Brunswick had an early lead.

6. View from the Eton College Boathouse.

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Once we got on the water, we found out that we were going to be doing a starting piece against the Princeton varsity lightweights (undefeated national champions).

It was a very cool experience to be on the starting line with such a distinguished crew. After racing Princeton, we headed back up the river to start a similar piece against Trinity College, Dublin, which was also fun.” ~ Bridges King ’09/Six Seat

Wednesday, July 1

Friday, July 3

“Today was a truly historic day for Brunswick Rowing! We experienced our first-ever win at the Henley Royal Regatta. At around 4:20 p.m., we walked to the boat tent and began warming up for our 6:10 p.m. race. We rowed to the starting line doing our normal warm-up. All of the guys were focused, confident, and prepared to face off against Canford School. Getting into the starting blocks was the moment we had been waiting for since we arrived here on June 17. We had trained harder and practiced more times than we had all spring season.

This was where we could show our skills and ability to move the boat.” ~ Christian Stanco ’09/Coxswain

“This week at the Henley Royal Regatta has been an incredible run for Brunswick Crew. As one of the top four boats remaining in the Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup, we are now the last American team, as well as the only unseeded one, left in our division. Tomorrow is the 4th of July and at 3:30 p.m. there promises to be a classic American/British showdown.

LET’S GO ’WICK!” ~ Captain Turner Smith ’09/Stroke

*The complete Brunswick School Boat Club “Henley 2009 blog” is posted on wicknet.org/crew

Summer 2009 | Times of Brunswick

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7. Brunswick racing the Canford School (UK) in the first Round of the Henley Royal Regatta. The teams are approaching the Barrier, which is a course landmark. It is said that if you have the lead at the Barrier, you will keep the lead to the finish.

8. The team waits in the Shiplake Lock.

Rowing through the locks is a traditional experience for any team that rows miles from Henley-onThames to Reading.

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9. Christian Stanco coxes the first boat to a victory a heat at the Reading Regatta.

10. Peter Chu coxes the first boat to a win in the finals of the Reading Regatta.

11. Coach Joe Falco talks with parents about the race.

12. Starboard side oars are perfectly balanced and ready to be run out before a race at the Henley Royal Regatta 13. A combination of great coaching, tough rowing, and impeccable coxing lead to a win at the Reading Regatta.

14. Crew moms cheer-on the home team.

15. Brunswick celebrates after their come-from-behind victory against Latymer Upper School (UK) in the quarterfinals of Henley

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P ost S cript fro m

John Martin

Assistant Coach of Brunswick School Boat Club and Upper School English teacher Monday, July 6

I thought I’d write one more final blog to reflect upon the Henley trip. In the past days, I’ve tried to get away from rowing for a bit, but it’s been nice to get so many emails/texts from alums, alums’ parents, competitors, and former crewmates. As Coach Falco told the team, when rowing at Henley there are “hundreds of critics lining the banks” and everybody is watching what you’re doing. Of course, he was referring to the actual rowing on the course in practice, but it applies to the experience as a whole. And as large, loud Americans, we tend to attract a lot of attention on the river.

Christian (Stanco, coxswain) was, after all, practically broadcasting to all of the British Isles.

With all of the much discussed “potential” of this year’s crew—combined with the less-than-stellar performances in the finals of Stotesbury Cup and New Englands—many were watching to see what results this trip would hold.

Thanks to total commitment, trust, and effort on behalf of the team, and a host of supportive parents, the trip was truly done right. The focus was on the rowing and on preparation for the racing. It started with intensely focused twice-a-day rowing sessions for two weeks in Cos Cob (Conn.) at 6:30 a.m. and 3:00

p.m., which is something on the order of 27 rows on the Mianus before we even departed for Europe.

Having so much time to adjust to the routine of training in Henley, along with the time difference, ended up being helpful. By the time the boys shoved off the dock for their race against Canford at Henley, they had shoved off (if I’ve counted correctly) 33 more times since they’d arrived in England. While not all of those training/racing sessions were great (Chan, remember that second row in Henley when we had that large oak tree hooked onto our skeg?), the guys in the eight seemed comfortable with the course and their race plan.

Although they were tense for their first race, and after the resounding win against a good boat from Canford, confidence within our crew was tremendous. Such confidence only comes from having performed in training sessions and truly believing in one another, in the race plan, in the training, in the coaching, and in the equipment. For the next three races, we were all positive, despite being underdogs against stiff competition.

Abingdon ended up being better than us on Saturday—our friend Russell Peacock (who was in the launch for that race) noted that Abingdon handled the

16. A view down the historic Henley course.

This 2,112-meter course is a straightshot course that is barely wide enough to fit two boats across.

Each side is protected from wakes by a boom system, which can be treacherous if a coxswain steers too far over.

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17. Brunswick races the Canford School in the first round of the Henley Royal Regatta.

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18. Capt. Turner Smith ’09, Chan Mahaney ’09, and Bridges King ’09 dig in for the final sprint against Latymer Upper School (UK).

Brunswick came from a full boat length down to win by a whole length in one of the greatest comebacks at Henley this year.

Photo Credit: Sarah Ondaatje

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19. Spectators (and fans) Kevin Mahaney, Sir Christopher Ondaatje, and Øivind Lorentzen.

Photo Credit: Sarah Ondaatje

conditions a bit better than we did. Our crew concurred, but nobody gave up, and they certainly represented Brunswick well out there that day.

In Coach Falco’s 10-year journey to build Brunswick School Boat Club in the right way (in which sportsmanship and character building have been paramount), our Henley trip has been one of the high points in terms of results. But I’m most proud to say that it’s also been a high point in terms of dedication, commitment, hard work, focus, and good spirit. Participating in such an incredible experience as the Henley Royal Regatta is one that none of us will ever forget.

Photo Credit: Paget Stanco

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Photo Credit: Simon Williams

20. The First Boat poses for a traditional shot on the docks at the Henley Royal Regatta.

21. The Coaches and Rowers of the Brunswick School Boat Club Trip to Henley.

Left to right: Coach Joe Falco, Ryan Gartin ’11, Øivind Lorentzen ’09, Peter Haley ’09, Lawrence LopezMenzies ’10, Coxswain Christian Stanco ’09, Edward Williams ’09, Coxswain Peter Chu ’10, Bridges King ’09, Chan Mahaney ’09, Capt. Turner Smith ’09, Hank Schless ’10, Duncan Fraser ’11, and Assistant Coach John Martin.

Photography by Hank Schless ’10 (unless otherwise indicated) Note: To see more photos from the Henley trip, go to hankschlessphoto.com.

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The following news briefs are from Bruins past and present who are sharing what they’re doing, where they’ve been, how they’ve done it.

A Raptor-ous Assembly From the Audubon The E-Proctors, a Brunswick Upper School student leadership initiative whose focus is environmental action, responsibility, and sustainability, sponsored a raptorous assembly when Tom Baptist, Executive Director of Connecticut Audubon, came to talk about birds and conservation. He was accompanied by three raptors—a turkey vulture, a red-shouldered hawk, and a barred owl—and discussed how birds are “litmus tests” for the quality of our environment.

“The biggest threat to nature is our inability to connect to a healthy environment,” Mr. Baptist said. “People are important and can make preservation happen.” He also discussed how Audubon

What's your story?

We'd love to hear.

Please send your stories to Bonni Brodnick, inspires people to be better conbbrodnick@brunswickschool.org servationists in their homes and communities, think about their or call the Brunswick News Room consumer patterns, and how they at 203.625.5863. recycle. “Individuals can make a difference,” he said.

“We no longer live in a world we love for our children and our world where we can live our everyday grandchildren. Many thanks to B. Holt lives without considering the conseThrasher, a new Brunswick parent, for quences of the small choices we make,” helping to coordinate this assembly. We said Guy Pratt, Brunswick Upper School were delighted to have Mr. Baptist as Sustainability Coordinator, faculty adviour guest speaker to talk about the hissor to E-Proctors and science teacher. tory and mission of the Audubon Soci“Although the challenges posed by cliety, conservation issues facing birds of mate change are daunting, making prey, and how we can be better stewards small, manageable changes in the way of our earth.” j we do things is the key to preserving the

Front row (left to right): David Jaramill, Corey Kupersmith, Preston Baldwin, Mac Morse, and Peter Geithner.

Middle row (left to right): Scott Heth (Director of Audubon Sharon), Tom Baptist (Executive Director of Connecticut Audubon), Sam King, Øivind Lorentzen, Kyle Wolstencroft, and Drew McMahon.

Back row (left to right): Luke Lorentzen, Connor Fitzpatrick, Cooper Briggs, Duncan Fraser, and Guy Pratt (Brunswick School Sustainability Coordinator, faculty advisor to E-Proctors, and science teacher).

(Not pictured: Leslie Harris, faculty advisor to E-Proctors)

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Times of Brunswick | Summer 2009

’ wick S nippets

Room to Read Calls a Rally for Reading Room to Read, a Brunswick School club established two years ago, was on a mission. Through various fundraising activities during the school year, members raised $19,000 to donate to this non-profit organization based in San Francisco that builds schools, libraries, funds girls’ scholarships, and publishes local language children’s books in developing countries. The organization has built 765 schools, 7,040 libraries, published 327 original local language children’s books, and funded more than 6,817 long-term girls’ scholarships in countries such as Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Zambia, and South Africa.

Springtime at ’Wick was busy as young readers in Lower and Middle Schools dove wholeheartedly into a reada-thon. The monthlong project was kicked off on “Read Across America” Day. Lower School organized events such as read-in

periods and reading incentives, and invited Upper Schoolers to read to the Lower School boys. Middle School charted individual achievements as students read more than 200,000 pages to support global literacy. One student raised $900 through his reading and another read more than 10,000 pages. These funds will go to build a library in Nepal that will be dedicated to the faculty and students of Brunswick School who made it happen.

“The Read-a-thon was incredible!” said Will Seaton ’09, outgoing president and founder of Room to Read Club.

“Brunswick students pulled together and read more pages than I could ever have imagined. They really chipped in to help Room to Read’s mission to break the chain of children’s illiteracy.” j

For more information on Room to Read, please go to roomtoread.org.

Will Seaton ’09 (middle), president and founder of Brunswick School’s Room to Read Club, with Coulter Bailey ’09 (left) and Bill Hoch ’09 (right), cofounders.

Bears & Jammers

Front row (center): Rick Famiglietti (CT #72). Middle row (left to right): John Fuhr (NY, with Joseph Jeremias in his lap), Tom Branchaud (CT #11), Len Lacina (NY #8), Wil Kornegay (CT #6), Brian Amundsen (NY), Matt Castelluccio (NY), and Jim Quick (CT).

Back row (left to right): Brunswick School students Matias Gonzalez-Bunster ’12, Alex Jonokuchi ’10, Robb King ’12, Max Haub ’10, Kevin Donlin ’10, Gus Ruchman ’10 (president, Bears for Chairs), Sam King ’10 (co-vice president) and Bud Harvey.

(Other “Bears for Chairs” club members not pictured: co-vice presidents Harrison Oztemel ’10 and Robin Malloch ’10.)

“Bears for Chairs,” an extracurricular club dedicated to issues of mobility awareness and outreach, partnered with the Brunswick varsity basketball team to sponsor an exhibition quadriplegic rugby match. The Connecticut Jammers, who were joined by some of their New York teammates, played the halftime exhibition at Sampson Athletic Center on Edwards Campus.

“We are hoping to raise awareness in our school for this amazing game, for the athleticism that wheelchair-bound players with disabilities can exhibit, and to raise funds for the Jammers,” said Gus Ruchman ’10, president of “Bears for Chairs.” j

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Cole ’17, Aidan ’21, and Kion ’19 Bruno at Ateshkadeh-ye Esfahan, a 2,000-year-old Zoroastrian fire temple in Esfahan, Iran.

My Trip to Iran

By Cole Bruno ’17 “We will arrive in Tehran in five minutes. All women must put on their head scarves!” the loudspeaker announced.

“We’re finally here,” I said excitedly after 24 hours of traveling and a 9-hour time difference. I looked out the window of the airplane and saw thousands of city lights. As we descended, I could see the mountains. Before I knew it, we were landing in Iran.

My heart leapt. My mom, dad, brothers, grandma, and grandpa, and I got off the plane and went through customs. As we walked towards the stairs to get to baggage claim, I saw seven people smiling and waving in my direction. It was 3:30 in the morning Tehran time.

My mom’s relatives had gotten out of bed and driven one hour in order to greet us at the airport and take us home. They were all so loving and happy to see us.

The next night, we had our first church and museum that was a memoparty in Tehran. Different family memrial for the 2 million Armenians massabers hosted parties for us every night. My cred by the Turks. The Armenians who cousin, Arvin, was my younger brother escaped from Turkey were able to live Kion’s age. He was 8, or as you say in Farsi safely in Iran. (the Persian language), hasht. Arvin spoke

On our way to Shiraz, we visited the Farsi and my family spoke English, but tomb of Cyrus the Great, who ruled the we got along as if we had known each Persian Empire from 550-530 B.C. He other for years. built a giant castle with a beautiful sur We traveled to Kashan and saw inrounding garden. Once he conquered a credible things. This city in the desert is city, he let the people practice their reworld-famous for Persian carpets. It is ligion as they had before they were conalso known for silk, ceramics, copperware, and rosewater. We saw the beautiful homes people “It was something right out of lived in hundreds of years ago, an Indiana Jones movie.” and climbed a 7,000-year-old pre-Zoroastrian fire temple. It was something right out of an Indiana quered. Incidentally, Cyrus the Great Jones movie. also had an enormous tomb. The reason

After a night in Abyoneh, an ancient it was never burnt down was because of Zoroastrian village, we went to Esfahan and Alexander the Great from Greece. The stayed at the Shah Abbas Hotel, where Persians did not think highly of him bemy mother once stayed when she was cause each time he conquered a city, he ten, my age. We went to an Armenian burnt it down. Cyrus the Great knew 

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a conqueror might do this to his tomb and in his will stated: “Whoever destroys my tomb will be haunted for the rest of his life.”

Although Alexander the Great did not burn down the tomb, he destroyed everything around it, including the extraordinary castle and its garden.

In Persepolis, a city from which descendants of Cyrus the Great ruled, we saw stone columns with intricate carvings. Later, we went to the Caspian Sea. By the way, it’s not really a “sea” because it’s a closed body of water that is not connected to an ocean.

While staying with family at the

beach, we celebrated the Persian New Year, Norouz, a big holiday that has festivities for two weeks. It begins when spring starts, which this year was at exactly 3:14 p.m. on March 20. While our year is 2009, in Iran it is the year 1388.

The food in Iran was healthy and amazingly delicious. There was fresh bread made in stone kiln ovens, fluffy saffron rice, chicken kebab, lamb kebab, sabzi (an Iranian herb stew), cucumber yogurt and baghelagheto, a scrumptious bean, egg, and herb stew with garlic that is eaten with rice. Strangers frequently asked us questions and loved hearing us speak English.

When it was time to return to the United States, Mina (my grandma’s sister) began to cry as she said goodbye.

My brothers and I did not want to leave because it had been so much fun to meet our family and learn about a different culture.

As our plane lifted off, I said, “Khoudahafez!” (goodbye) to the beautiful country of Iran. j  Kion Bruno ’19 doing the ’Wick handstand in the courtyard of the Shah Abass Hotel.

Aidan Bruno ’21 next to a brass teapot and bowl in a Persian restaurant.

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The Brunswick Development Office: A Perennial Work in Progress

By Bonni Brodnick The Brunswick School Development Office is a hub of activity all year long.

If you stop by on any given day, Tom Murray, Director of Development, chief overseer, and fundraiser, is on the telephone (or his BlackBerry) touching base with Board members and Development Committee members regarding Brunswick’s latest fundraising initiatives.

A major baseball aficionado, he’s also an assistant coach of the Brunswick baseball team (who had an incredible season by capturing their first outright Fairchester Athletic Association title in at least 25 years. Ask Tom about the clincher. He’ll be thrilled to tell you about it . . . play by play.)

Diane Briggs, Assistant Director of Development, collaborates with Tom on office matters and stewardship efforts. She also oversees general office writing needs and communication with foundations. She and Bonni (see facing page) brainstorm (a lot) on various projects. Incidentally, Diane is a passionate photographer.

You will often see her behind the lens at school events seeking to capture the spirit of Brunswick in photos for the website and Development Office publications.

Terry Gumz, with daughter Lily (GA ’03), and son Charlie ’06, stop at the Grand Canyon during their cross-country trip to San Francisco before Terry took over her new post as Director of Development at San Francisco Day School.

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Libby Edwards, Director of Alumni Relations, is on-line all the time with emails to and from ’Wick alumni regarding every matter of Brunswick business.

Other super-charges include “Class Notes,” reunions, Sports Day, and Career Networking. She’s also planning our fall Homecoming (yup, planning starts in May).

Anne Adler, Website Director, coordinates with all divisions and departments within the School to post timely information on our website, BrunswickSchool.org.

Her day includes planning photo shoots and working with faculty and photographers to get the right pix.

Jarrett Shine, our new Associate Director of Admissions and Alumni Affairs, is both a graduate of Brunswick School (Class of ’92) and a former member of our faculty. You’ll find him talking with a prospective Brunswick family, lots of alumni, and Upper School students who stop by his office for a friendly visit. As new head football coach for the Brunswick Bruins, Jarrett looks forward to coaching the boys towards new victories on the playing field.

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Krista Bruce, Director of Annual Giving, is regularly on the phone with her dedicated parent volunteers. In addition to taking on next year’s Senior Fund, she continues to coordinate the yearlong effort of raising funds for Brunswick’s operating budget. To assist in any way she can, Krista will also serve as Development Office liaison to the Brunswick Parents’ Association for their upcoming events and benefits.

Rhonda Bonom manages our ever-growing database and keeps track of nearly everything in our office. She’s our go-to person and essential resource for keeping the Development Office running smoothly.

A day in the Brunswick life of Bonni Brodnick, Director of Communications, will include her writing a press release and talking to the media about cool activities the boys and faculty are doing at Brunswick and in the community, while simultaneously writing a feature story for Times of Brunswick (ToB), choosing paper stock for the next annual report, and coordinating copy and design for our next publication, brochure, and advertising campaign. You’ll often find students stopping by Bonni’s desk to chat or to seek her mentorship with writing a local newspaper column or a story for ToB.

While each member of the Development Office has his/her expertise, there is teamwork in all they do—fall, winter, spring, and summer. This sense of collectivity and collegial camaraderie unites their development efforts on behalf of the entire school. j

Reporting from the Big Easy: Spring Break 2009

By Matt Henkel ’11 With a great group of friends—including Brunswick juniors Tate Daugherty, Steven Barnett, Sammy MacFarlane, Conrad Oberbeck, Kenneth Saer, David Dickson and James Woodruff—along with our fearless leader, Lee Fletcher, our Stanwich Church Youth Group director, went to New Orleans over spring break to help rebuild the broken city, four years removed from Hurricane Katrina. For six days, we cleaned up parks, helped rebuild a house ruined by the hurricane, and explored this incredible city.

What struck me most was how optimistic and upbeat the people are. With seemingly little, and with barely enough money to keep a roof over their heads, they were stunningly happy and full of life. We were warmed by the respect and appreciation they showed us through their thanks and generous hospitality.

Each day after finishing our work, we took walks in the District and heard remarkable stories that varied from beliefs that Katrina was an alien-attack instead of a hurricane, to single mothers and their children trapped in the attic of their houses for days in 100-degree heat.

A common theme in all of these tales was how their steadfast faith got them through the toughest days of Katrina’s aftermath.

The Lower Ninth Ward is one of the neighborhoods most destroyed by the hurricane. The devastation was frightening and, even today, the neighborhood sadly remains stripped of all signs of life. Walkways and driveways, still intact, lead up to piles of dirt, house frames, and foundations where houses once stood.

Putting in 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. days, we helped rebuild a house that had been deci-

mated by the flooding. We hung dry wall, taped, and mudded (substance used to hold dry wall together), then sanded down the rough edges of the mud (in preparation for more layers of mud). Working on that house gave a sense of accomplishment and realization that doing so little can go far in the minds of the people of New Orleans. As they drove past, they honked their horns in appreciation of our efforts.

From repairing the house, to walking through the roads and alleys of Bourbon Street, it was a great trip. Not only do I have stories that will stay with me forever, but the trip also renewed appreciation for the luxuries we have, and how important it is to reach out to others in need. j

Front (left to right): Kenneth Saer and Stevie Barnett.

Back (left to right): JoJo Golden and Kim Sebastian, from Convent of the Sacred Heart, with Brunswick juniors Sammy MacFarlane, David Dickson, Matt Henkel ’11, Tate Daugherty and Conrad Oberbeck.

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The Oracle, James Baker & Cole Stangler Receive Accolades

By Bonni Brodnick Brunswick celebrated a bounty of writing prizes this spring. The Oracle, our literary and arts magazine, was honored with the distinction of Superior from the National Council of the Teachers of English (NCTE) program to recognize excellence in student literary magazines.

“NCTE’s second highest ranking is received by only the very best literary magazines in the country,” said John Martin, Upper School English teacher and magazine advisor.

In addition, Brunswick Seniors Cole Stangler and James Baker were recipients of the Gold Circle Awards from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association. Cole was honored for his poem, “La Luna Está Bailando” and is one of six students in the country to be honored in the category of Poetry: Open (free) Form.

James, who is also co-editor-in-chief of The Oracle, received First Prize for his essay, “Searchlights” and is one of five writers to be honored in the category Fiction: Experimental. j

La luna estÁ bailando

By Cole Stangler ’09

La luna está bailando Sobre los techos del invierno.

Está cayendo con ritmo Como un niño descuidado.

Está huyendo con risitas Como la niña bailarina.

La luna está bailando Sobre los techos del invierno.

La niebla rosa se hunde Lleno de lagrimas fuertes.

Mi corazón vacío duerme Lleno de deseas congelados.

La luna está bailando Sobre los techos del invierno.

Las gotas oscilan sin pensar— Los sueños flotan sin volar.

Que durmamos en la calle— Que saboreamos la nieve.

La luna está bailando Sobre los techos del invierno.

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The Moon Is Dancing

By Cole Stangler ’09 The moon is dancing On the roofs of winter.

It falls with rhythm, Like a careless child.

It sinks with giggles Like a ballerina girl.

The moon is dancing On the roofs of winter.

The pink fog sinks Full of strong tears.

My empty heart sleeps Full of frozen desires.

The moon is dancing On the roofs of winter.

Tears swing without thought— Dreams float without flight.

Let us sleep in the street— Let us savor the snow.

The moon is dancing On the roofs of winter.

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Playing the Part John Van Atta, Upper School master history teacher, Oaklawn Chair in American History, has a role-playing experience that brings out the best (or worst) in his Brunswick and Greenwich Academy students. By researching a paper and drawing, in part from original source material, students select to role-play antebellum historical figures like William Lloyd Garrison (1879), abolitionist and newspaper editor; Henry David Thoreau (1862), transcendentalist and practitioner of civil disobedience; Frederick Douglass (1895), escaped slave, lecturer, abolitionist; Herman Melville (1891), man of letters and author of Moby-Dick; Mother Ann Lee

(1784), visionary, prophetess, and founder of the Shakers, and many more. Based on extensive investigation of their character’s life, the assignment is to assume salient traits that most distinguished him/her from other figures of the day.

Not for the faint-hearted, Mr. Van Atta’s students are then required to accurately reflect their character’s point of view on the social, political, economic and cultural issues of the period 1815–1860. No easy task.

We caught up with John Wilkes Booth (AKA Michael Marx ’10) in the courtyard. He had donned a morning coat, striped pants, and bowler hat, and was

carrying a copy of William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, since Booth was a highly prolific actor at the time. Getting down to even more detail, Michael, I mean John Wilkes Booth, had a crutch and was limping on his right leg. Story has it that Booth broke his leg falling off of his horse.

“Does dressing in costume make you feel more in character?” asked Times of Brunswick.

“Definitely in class we do,” Michael said as his fake moustache bounced with each spoken word. “We’re supposed to stay in character for the entire day but sometimes it’s hard to keep the Southern accent going at full throttle.” j

Front (left to right): John Van Atta (as John Van Atta), Laina Richards (as Mother Ann Lee), Meredith Schmidt-Fellner (as John Brown), Stephanie Jasson (as Dorothea Dix), Eliza Hompe (as Brigham Young), Molly Duff (as William Lloyd Garrison) and Jordan Muto (as Frances Trollope).

Back (left to right): Michael Marx ’10 (as John Wilkes Booth), David Blumenthal ’10 (as Charles Sumner), Biss Cauchois (as Alexis de Tocqueville), William Biondi ’10 (as Nat Turner), Zach Lynch ’10 (as Frederick Douglass), Gray Stangler ’10 (as Walt Whitman), Chris Baldock ’10 (as Roger B. Taney), J. P. Hare ’10 (as Henry David Thoreau) and Will Seidel ’10 (as Frederick Law Olmstead).

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Photo Credit: Dan Burns

BRUINS

By Diana Samponaro

BRUNSWICK

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FENCING

Tri-Captains Chase Carter, Peter Kyriakos, and Colin O’Connell were joined by fellow Seniors Chase Barbe, Tom Cassidy, Robbie Cortes, Kristian Schott, and Brent Yarnell on the Brunswick fencing team.

Coach Orest Stetsiv returned to work with 24 ’Wick fencers, the largest team that Brunswick has fielded in recent years. Faculty advisor Ted Stolar was instrumental in transporting the team to their away-matches and in organizing their pre-practice training sessions.

Maintaining a strict schedule and holding extra practices with dry fencing/matchlike situations contributed to this year’s success. The team saw contests with Hackley, Rye Country Day School, and Greenwich High School. We ended on a great note, pulling through with a win against long-time rival GHS. Everybody fenced that day and it was truly a great team effort.

The future of Brunswick fencing looks bright with Captain Joe Hull poised to lead 16 returning members to an even higher level of competition.

Photo Credit: Dan Burns

BASKETBALL

Brunswick won the FAA regular season title with a league record of 12–0. Captain Kevin Royal and Seniors Jon Drosos, Jordan Grannum, Adam Holzschuh, Joey Scalzo, and Garrett Virtue sparked the team to a 20-point win versus Trinity-Pawling. The win was even more remarkable considering that they lost to T-P by 22 points earlier in the season.

The 2008–2009 season saw parity in the league.

Even in the FAA tournament it was difficult to determine who would come out on top. While disappointed to not add the tournament title to the team accolades, Coaches Greg Dobbs and Anthony Fischetti knew that a lot of team effort went into the 16–8 record for the Bruins. A talented squad of under classmen returns for the 2009–2010 season with Captains Max Barrett and Phil Pierce providing the leadership.

HOCKEY

Photo Credit: Dan Burns

“The 2008–09 ice hockey season was one filled with adversity due to some injury, some illness, some mediocre play, and some bad luck.” Having said that, Coach Ron VanBelle added, “However, any season (such as this one) where we improved as players, individuals, and as a team can be labeled a success. This was a great group of boys who set some lofty goals and worked hard toward their achievement.”

The team was much better than its record of 13–12–1. On the positive side, there were plenty of highlights: the St. George’s, Kent, Pingree, Dynamo, and Hoosac games all come to mind. When the team played well they were a great squad! Seniors Dan Cassidy, Peter Castine, Billy Chapman, Matt Chase, Mike Furlong, Freddy Ketchum, Taggie Martin, Jay Rosencrans, and Ben Tabah logged many miles on the ice and on the road for the Brunswick Bruins and they will be missed. Fortunately, Captains Phil Silbereisen, Nick Trepp, and Ben Weisburger will return for a second year of leading the team. The next NE prep school hockey season should prove interesting with all teams competing in highly-competitive Division I.

Coaches Ron VanBelle and Mike Kennedy expect many challenges for their team in 2009–2010 and many exciting games for the Brunswick fans. “The hockey season is a long season, but most of us miss it already and cannot wait until next year!”

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Coach Tim Ostrye expected a year of rebuilding with a young team and only three Seniors. Captains Will Holmes and Christian Stanco led the way to a very successful year. We won our own Brunswick Invitational Wrestling Tournament for the second straight year and, once again, won the FAA title for the 24th time in 25 years. Many team members would agree that taking home the “Town Crown” by beating Greenwich High School 43–21 was one of the high points of a demanding season.

Assistant Coaches Bob Benjamin and John Martin logged many hours driving the vans as the team traveled to 18 matches on the road. Next year’s Captains Cliff Simmons and Matt Wales look forward to building another winning season with most of the young team returning to the Ostrye Wrestling Room.

Photo Credit: Dan Burns

BRUINS

WRESTLING

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Brunswick squash team remained undefeated in New England again this season. Accordingly, for the 9th time, they were awarded the Brandes Cup for their best regular season record. Captains Sam Haig and Leighton Van Ness, along with Senior leaders Spencer Hurst and Harry Keeshan, led a 10-man team throughout a great season.

The team began by traveling to Philadelphia to defeat four of the best schools in the country: Chestnut Hill, Episcopal, Haverford, and Penn Charter. The newly formed FAA league also allowed our players to compete against neighboring schools. With a record of 16–1, our team was the New England Champion. The varsity A team’s only loss was the match versus rival Episcopal during the National High School Tournament in New Haven. In the New England Tournament, six out of seven players reached the final match in their respective draw.

For yet another season, Coach Jim Stephens worked with Assistant Coaches George Boynton and David Bruce to refine the skills and competitive play of a very talented team. Captain Parker Hurst is looking forward to the 2009–2010 season.

Photo Credit: Dan Burns

BRUNSWICK

SQUASH

This was a great season for the Brunswick lacrosse program according to Head Coach David Bruce.

Led by our defense, we had our best Western New England Division I finish to date. They were 14–4 (9–2 in league) and ranked 3rd behind co-New England Champions Deerfield and Salisbury.

There were many great moments during the season with big wins over Salisbury (NE Champions), Hotchkiss, Malvern (Pa.), Trinity-Pawling (2008 NE Champions), as well as others. The LAX-ers had a terrific team with a lot of youth, with 12 sophomores as the largest class represented on our team. Starting with a young attack of three sophomores, they came through in a big way as they led our team in points. Having so much inexperience on the attack added tremendous pressure on our defense and Senior midfielders, but they came through. Seniors Peter Castine (goalie and captain), Spencer Hurst, and Billy Chapman (captain) spearheaded defense; while our midfield was led by Seniors Charlie Payton (captain), Charlie Gerdts, and Garrett Virtue. Brad Daiber and Leighton VanNess also contributed talent and maturity to the team’s efforts.

All in all, this was a very close-knit group who loved to push the transition game and played extremely well together. They have set the bar high for the 2010 team who seem more than up to the challenge. We will be returning many players with strong leadership in the Senior class, including the three 2010 elected Captains: Jimmy Craft, Brett Moscati, and Sam Vallely. Coaches Brendan Gilsenan and Tom Philip concur that the future of Brunswick lacrosse looks very bright.

Photo Credit: Dan Burns

Photo Credit: Dan Burns

Lacrosse

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Photo Credit: Simon Williams

BRUINS BRUNSWICK

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Coming off a golden fall season, serious winter training, and the arrival of a new German shell, there was great excitement for the spring season. Forty boys trained hard in Florida over spring vacation and were able to begin practices in Cos Cob with some good training under their belts. Captained by Taylor Black and Turner Smith, the varsity boys ended up going 6–1 during the dual meet season, only losing to eventual NE champs, Andover.

A large part of that success is directly attributed to Seniors Peter Haley, Connor Fitzpatrick, Bridges King, Øivind Lorentzen, Chan Mahaney, Christian Stanco, and Ed Williams. In both of the two biggest races of the year (Stotesbury Cup and New Englands), the varsity boys had brilliant morning semifinals to advance to the grand finals, but had disappointing finals races.

Coach Joe Falco’s varsity rowers looked to finish out their Brunswick School Boat Club careers in England this summer as they competed in the prestigious Henley Royal Regatta. Filling the seats of the departing Seniors is a solid group of under classmen. Coach Vanessa Thorne added much appreciated coaching talent to the program, as evidenced by the second boat finishing a strong 5th in New England. Coach John Martin’s talented freshmen are part of the capable 35 returning oarsmen. The BSBC will be led next year by highly respected Captain, Lawrence Lopez ’10.

Photo Credit: Dan Burns

CREW

Photo Credit: Dan Burns

GOLF

The 2009 Bruin varsity golf team compiled one of its most successful seasons in recent memory, finishing with a record of 37–2–1. The season included signature wins over traditional New England prep powers Loomis, Taft, Choate, and Deerfield, as well as four tournament championships, including our own Brunswick Invitational at Round Hill Club. They were led by co-medalist John Torell’s 73, and finished 15 strokes better than second-place New Canaan High School, which at the time was undefeated and the top-ranked public school team in the state. Captain Conor Kenny and fellow Brunswick Seniors Robbie Cortes, Tripp Huber, Taggie Martin, and Sebastian Vik led the team in an extremely successful spring even though they were unable to compete in the FAA tournament due to graduation commitments. It was left to the under classmen to compete for the title and they succeeded with a one-stroke triumph over second place St. Luke’s at the Apawamis Club. Four members of the team, accompanied by Assistant Coach Jim Stephens, enjoyed a 22-stroke victory in the 12-team Fishers Island Invitational.

Head Coach Anthony Fischetti’s decision to enter the team in June’s prestigious Eastern Preps was an excellent choice as we won the championship, 28 strokes over runner-up Georgetown Prep (D.C.) in a 15-team field. While Seniors will be missed next season, the team looks forward to another successful campaign, led by 2010 elected Captains Schuyler Stitzer and John Torell.

“A wonderful season is a rare achievement” are the words of praise used by Coach George Boynton when he speaks of the Brunswick tennis team of 2009.

They won the FAA league title while remaining undefeated and compiling a 16–0 record. Captain Brendan Seaver also led the team in earning the New England Class “B” Championship title. A very talented group of under classmen provided much of the star power this season. Seniors Michael Pucci, Will Seaton, and Charlie Weinberg helped round out the squad. We placed 2nd in the prestigious NEMA Tournament in Owings Mills, Maryland, for the second year in a row.

The tennis team also enjoyed competing with talented Brunswick alumni on Saturday, May 9, at the Richman Tennis Courts.

Thanks to Tom Hartch for all of his help in planning the day. Many former ’Wick tennis players returned to campus and provided great competition for the current team.

Captains Sam King and Matt Mackin, along with 11 returning members of the team, look forward to another championship season for Brunswick tennis in 2010.

Photo Credit: Dan Burns

Photo Credit: Dan Burns

TENNIS

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Photo Credit: Dan Burns

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Times of Brunswick | Summer 2009

TRACK

Brunswick track club had many outstanding performances before and during the New England Championships. During the season, both Jared Nowell and Jordan Grannum ran school best times of 11.1 and 23.1 for the 100 and 200 meters, and Ryan Hagerbrant won several meets in the 1500 and 3000 meter distances. At the New England Track Championships, Brunswick came in 5th in the 4x100 meter relay, and Jared Nowell came in 5th in the 200-meter dash. Placing 7th in the 1500 meters was Ryan Hagerbrant, against one of the fastest fields at any of the New England prep school division championships, running an outstanding 4:13.5.

The enthusiasm for track has been increasing due to the dedication of Head Coach Robert Taylor and student interest in the sport. While Seniors Coulter Bailey, James Baker, Jon Drosos, Jordan Grannum, Sam Haig, and Bill Hoch will not be recipients of a varsity letter for track, they can be proud of their years of participation. In spring 2010, track will be designated a varsity sport at Brunswick. Taylor will continue as head coach with Dwight Jackson serving as assistant coach for the team.

Photo Credit: Marilyn Hart

BASEBALL

Winning the FAA tournament for the first time in 13 years made 2009 a year to remember for the Brunswick baseball team. Going on the road to beat Rye Country Day and Hopkins in the same week was truly something special.

Captains Dan Cassidy, Chris Kono, and Joe Scalzo were encouraged as the team started off at 4–1 in their first five games beating Hamden Hall 8–5 and St. Luke’s 7–3. Coaches Pat Piro, Tim Daly, and Tom Murray believe that a total team effort was the reason for the team’s successful record. Seniors Chase Barbe, K.C. Clark, Jonny Duennebier, Nick Hart, Scott Matthews, and Ben Preziosi were joined by a great group of under classmen. By defeating GFA 8–3, they secured the number three seed in the playoffs. The good news was that they made the playoffs; the bad news was that we had to play RCDS on their home diamond! This was no easy task as the team lost to RCDS twice during the regular season. After beating Rye 15–5, we traveled to Hopkins on a beautiful afternoon to play the final game of the tournament.

With great fan support, the game became a well-played old-fashioned pitcher’s duel, with Chris Kono out-pitching Hopkins to give Brunswick a 3–2 victory and the Fairchester Athletic Association Tournament Championship.

The coaches and the Brunswick community are proud of the boys for their commitment to the team, their unselfish play, and the hard work that they put into this magical season. Upcoming 2010 Captains Chris Baldock and Andrew Cohen look forward to leading Brunswick baseball on to another successful season.

SAILING

The 12 members of the Brunswick sailing team worked hard on and off the water, made great strides in performance, and finished the year knowing that we accomplished a lot. Captains Tom Chronert and Ian Johnson were the only Seniors on the team and their leadership skills proved invaluable in forming a cohesive group. Coach Andrew Scrivan ’96 remarked that the sailing season is “very condensed.” “We had four regular skippers and will be losing two Seniors,” he said. “Hopefully, we will gain one skipper off the injured list, leaving us with three skippers for next year.”

The four-hour daily practices made a big difference in the ability of the sailors to compete in the highly competitive Fairfield County Sailing League. Coach Scrivan, an alumnus, was a standout sailor while a Brunswick student, and he is known for his teaching ability, both on the water and on dry land.

Drew Blake and Gus Ruchman will captain the 2010 sailing team. With 10 returning members working hard on their sailing skills throughout the summer, Brunswick looks forward to a terrific season next spring.

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BASKETBALL Joe Koszalka Award..........................................Kevin Royal FAA All-League................................................Kevin Royal, Max Barrett Honorable Mention.........................................Philip Pierce HOCKEY Hal Rogers Award............................................Dan Cassidy All-New England D-II.....................................Nicholas Trepp SQUASH Jim Stephens Racquets Award..........................Sam Haig NE Champions................................................Chris Baldock, Jamie Davies,

John Dudzik, Parker Hurst WRESTLING Peter deLisser Award.........................................Christian Stanco FAA All-League................................................Will Holmes, Christian Stanco, Matt Wales,

Preston Baldwin, Victor Holten,

Alex Marcus, Patrick Wales BASEBALL Dutch King Award...........................................Chris Kono, Joe Scalzo FAA All-League................................................Jonny Duennebier,

Chris Kono, Will Preziosi,

Joe Scalzo Honorable Mention.........................................Matt Henkel

Photo Credit: Dan Burns

BRUINS BRUNSWICK

WINTER AND SPRING FAA ALL-LEAGUE & SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARDS

CREW Coach’s Cup Winner........................................Christian Stanco Most Improved Oarsman.................................Thomas Wilson GOLF Doc Bevacqua Award.......................................Conor Kenny, Taggie Martin FAA All-League................................................Schuyler Stitzer, John Torell, Wes Koorbusch Honorable Mention.........................................Chris Simonson LACROSSE Durkin Family Award.......................................Billy Chapman John Altman Award..........................................Brad Daiber Jeff Harris Award..............................................Charlie Gerdts All-American....................................................Billy Chapman Nels Corey Award............................................Billy Chapman (Best Defenseman in the League) All-League Selections........................................Billy Chapman, Spencer Hurst,

Charlie Payton, Garrett Virtue TENNIS Hartch Family Tennis Award............................Brendan Seaver FAA All-League................................................Brendan Seaver, Sam King, Matt Mackin,

Kyle Wolstencroft, Andrew Blumberg

SCHOLAR-ATHLETE AWARDS 2008-2009 Presented to varsity athletes who have achieved High Honors for the year Baseball..........................Chris Baldock, Alex Jonokuchi, Brendan Hardin Basketball.....................Zach Lynch Crew................................Øivind Lorentzen, Turner Smith, David Blumenthal, Rob King Cross Country...........Ian Johnson, Tim O’Leary, Kyle Radler, Will Seaton, Jesse Zannino,

Will Biondi, Gus Ruchman, Charlie Southwick, Andrew Grasso,

Ryan Hagerbrant, Jake Matthews Fencing..............................Chase Carter, Robbie Cortes, Gus Ruchman Football........................Peter Kiernan, Nick Brown, Ryan Chen, David Jaramillo Golf......................................Robbie Cortes, Taggie Martin Hockey...........................Taggie Martin Lacrosse.........................Spencer Hurst, Spencer Dahl Sailing.............................Tom Chronert, Ian Johnson, Peter Gatto, Gus Ruchman Soccer............................James Baker, Jack Carter, Øivind Lorentzen, Taggie Martin,

Owen Scannell, Cole Stangler, Chris Baldock, Tyler Marks,

Jared Nowell Squash............................Sam Haig, Preston Han, Spencer Hurst, Chris Baldock,

Nikhil Mehra, Will MacFarlane Tennis..............................Will Seaton, Kyle Wolstencroft, Robby Rovelli

THREE SPORT VARSITY ATHLETE AWARDS 2008–2009

Seniors Peter Castine................... Football, hockey, lacrosse Billy Chapman................ Football, hockey, lacrosse Taggie Martin.................. Soccer, hockey, golf Joe Scalzo........................ Football, basketball, baseball Garrett Virtue................. Football, basketball, lacrosse Juniors Chris Baldock.................. Soccer, squash, baseball Andrew Cohen................ Football, wrestling, baseball Brett Moscati................... Football, basketball, lacrosse Philip Pierce.................... Football, basketball, lacrosse Gus Ruchman................. Cross country, fencing, sailing Sophomores Nick Garzona.................. Football, wrestling, baseball Alex Marcus.................... Football, wrestling, lacrosse

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Classroom b e yo n d

th e

C O M P I LE D B Y B O NN I B R O D N I C K

Former BPA Presidents Luncheon In April, this year’s Brunswick Parents’ Association hosted the First Annual Former BPA Presidents Luncheon in the new Performing Arts Center lobby. Nineteen past presidents—even grandmothers of current students—returned to their sons’ school, some for the first time since the 1970s.

“It was enlightening to hear each of the mothers recount stories about the years they served,” said Suzy Breck, 2008–2009 BPA president. “The anecdotes were humorous, poignant, and all showed a sincere connection and long-standing dedication to our beloved School.” j

First row (left to right): Phyllis “Pete” Gold (1966–67), Betty Altman (1974–75), Cathy Sutton (1995–96), Barbara Bollman (1972–73), and Lisa Matthews (2002–03).

Second row (left to right): Margaret Sinclair (1999–2000), Suzy Breck (2008–09), Terri DeSalvo (2007–08), Judy Donahue (1983–84), Mary Alice O’Malley (1991–92), Jane Basham (1998–99), Anne Farrell (1997–98), Mary Pedersen (2000–01), and Lisa Skinner (2006–07).

Third row (left to right): Debbie Black [in coral jacket] (2001–02), Dini Mallory [in yellow top] (2004–2005), Darrell Lorentzen (2005–06), Susan Beekman (1989–90), and Cindy Biondi (2003–04).

James Whittemore ’13 Knows the Route to the 2009 Connecticut Geographic Bee Was it the town of Verdun in France, on a hilltop in Nova Scotia, or during the Crimean War? These were some of the answers contestants had to know to be in the running for the 2009 Connecticut Geographic Bee champ. Count James Whittemore ’13 among the top 10 in the championship round of this challenging geo-quiz competition.

How does he do it? Does he read the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Newsweek, and The Economist, then bounce over to “60 Minutes,” “20/20” and “360 with Anderson Cooper”?

“Geography is something that I’m interested in,” said James.

“I just remember features, names, and other geographical content that I read in atlases or on maps. And a very big tip: follow the news! Current events play a major part in the competition and you cannot do well if you do not know what has recently developed in the world.” j

An All-Season All-Star Along with winning the Youth of the Year award from the Greenwich Boys & Girls Club, Jonathan Drosos ’09 received the 2009 Donald J. Lomme Student Athlete Scholarship from the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials.

Along with playing point guard on the varsity basketball team, Jonathan is Brunswick’s Diversity in Action club president; he won the school community service award in both his freshman and sophomore years; he participates in school clothing drives; helps youngsters do their homework at the Greenwich Boys & Girls Club; and this year was honored with an appointment to be a Brunswick Senior Prefect, a position of responsibility, trust, and honor within our school.

Jonathan has become both a school and community force for change, service, and selfless contribution.

Anthony Fischetti, Middle School U.S. history coordinator and Grade 8 Class Dean, along with being Jonathan’s basketball coach, attests to his value both “within the lines of competition on the basketball hardwood, and his selfless, generous, and altruistic work on behalf of those in our community, both school- and town-wide.”

“Simply put, Jonathan represents the best elements of academic, athletic, and community values our school seeks to teach,” said Mr. Fischetti. “His early acceptance to the Stevens Institute of Technology is further indication of the bright future ahead for this remarkable young man.” j

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B eyond the C lassroom

The Manchurian Candidate comes to Brunswick In a scene from the Brunswick School/Greenwich Academy production of The Manchurian Candidate—a play by John Lahr, from the novel by Richard Condon—Raymond Shaw (Daniel O’Neill) gives a speech to a crowd who falsely believe that he is a war hero.

Other principal cast members included Jack Carter as Johnny Iselin, Annaliese Kirby as Eleanor Iselin, Holly Linneman as Genie Cheyney, and Will Reeve as Ben Marco. The director of the production was Stephen Duennebier, Dean of Student Services and Assistant Head of Upper School. j

Pen Pal Program Helps Close the Generation Gap In an era of cell phones, emails, IMing (Instant Messaging), and FBing (Facebooking), putting a pen to paper to write a letter or thank-you note is almost anachronistic.

To encourage letter writing as a communication skill, Rebecca Weitzman, Lower School second grade teacher, and Carlin Aloia, her assistant teacher, created a pen pal community service project with residents of Darien Atria, a local assisted-living home.

“The pen pal program is a terrific way to bridge the generation gap,” said Ms. Weitzman. “While discovering that they have many things in common, the boys also learn an important lesson: to give their time to others.”

Later in the year, the second graders had a chance to meet their pen pals in person, which truly delivered their message of friendship and caring. j

 Left to right: Will Prout, Ms. D’Orio, and Dylan Reynolds  Left to right: Colin Lee, Mr. McKim, Jack Withstandley, and Connor Belcastro

The Dream Flag Project Brunswick’s first through 12th graders honored Martin Luther King, Jr., at a special assembly, “Reaching Beyond Barriers Through Art.” Along with sophomore Allen Louis singing “Precious Lord, Take my Hand,” which Mr. King often sang before giving sermons, the Diversity in Action Club performed a skit, “The Freedom Riders.”

Eighth grader Azario Mastrangelo gave a presentation on Langston Hughes, Branden Davis recited a poem, and several Lower and Middle School students read their colorful “Dream Flags,” an art project inspired by Hughes’s poetry.

Shown here standing before a few of the more than 470 “Dream Flags” festooning Burke Field House are front row (left to right): Andrew Grossman, Charles Heath, Bernard Zoungrana, Buck Elliott, and Judge Burke. Top row (left to right): Jack Withstandley, Andrew Tierno, Caleb Osemobor, Greyson Wolfram, David Sorbaro, and Nicholas Florian. j

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Brunswick Alumni

2009 A lu mni S p o rts D ay It was a dark and stormy night.

Wait, take that back. It was a damp and foggy day.

Whatever the weather, it surely didn’t hold back alums from the 2009 Alumni Sports Day. Members of the Brunswick varsity tennis team challenged returning alums on Richman Courts in both singles and doubles matches. On Cosby Memorial Field, more than 25 LAX-ers challenged one other to a rousing game that included two full teams—from Class of ’72 through Class of ’08. Competitions on court and field were fierce. Cheering from family members and friends was robust. What can we say? It was a terrific day topped with a postgame BBQ enjoyed by all.

Alumni Sports Day is held every year in May so keep your eyes open for next year’s date and join in the fun!

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BRUNSWICK ALUMNI

C areer N etwo rking N ight 2008 The Microsoft offices in NYC were abuzz at the 6th Annual Brunswick School and Greenwich Academy Career Networking Night, hosted by John Harvey ’84. Other speakers included Heather Johnson Sargent GA ’92, Richard Baker ’84, and Fabi Arredondo Rolfe GA ’92. Along with catching up with friends and colleagues, the evening was an opportunity for alumni and alumnae to network and learn about different career paths.

Mark your calendars for the 7th Annual Career Networking Night to be held on Wednesday, November 11, 2009. Please join us!

Class of 2009

Celebrated at the 107th Commencement

By Bonni Brodnick Photography by Robert Norman Photography

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The procession of Brunswick Seniors filed in to Dann Gymnasium at Sampson Field House to the rhythmic march “Pomp and Circumstance.” This traditional orchestration rings majestically every May as it announces a class of graduates on the cusp of a new chapter.

“I am now graduating the children of boys when I first started teaching at Brunswick 36 years ago in 1973,”

said a wistful Ted Stolar, Upper School visual arts teacher, as he lined up with fellow faculty members for the riteof-passage Senior handshaking. “Essentially, we are one big community and it’s an absolute treasure to see which families are still here, and whose children are now students.”

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Mr. Stolar noted that the Class of 2009 also includes 15 “little” brothers of earlier Brunswick grads—Coulter Bailey, James Baker, Matt Chase, Robbie Cortes, Jonny Duennebier, Diego GonzalezBunster, Chan Mahaney, Taggie Martin, Scott Matthews, Colin O’Connell, Charlie Payton, Brendan Seaver, Leighton Van Ness, Garrett Virtue, Edward Williams, and Jessie Zannino.

Barbara Kolesar, former Middle School English teacher for 22 years, flew in from North Carolina to watch “her boys” graduate.

“This is a special class,” she said. “Monica Berisso (Middle School Spanish teacher) and I took 15 of them to Spain for 10 days. You really get close to the kids when you travel together.”

Back in Dann Gymnasium, the Men of Brunswick a cappella group, well rehearsed from their recent performance of “Star-Spangled Banner” at Citi Field, were in perfect pitch as graduation day was underway. Father Richard Cipolla, Upper School Latin teacher and chair of the Classics Department, gave an invocation that celebrated the achievements of our boys, honored their parents who enabled their sons to reach this point in their lives, and blessed the faculty “whose teaching is an act of sacrifice and giving of the self in the deepest way that involves the intellect, the heart, and the whole person.”

“Bless these boys as they begin a new life beyond our classrooms. Guide them to be honorable men so that they lead lives of personal integrity and social respect. Never let them fear to do what is just, good, and true. Let them rise above selfishness that is the scourge of our times, and let them live lives of Courage, Honor, Truth.”

Headmaster Thomas Philip took the podium before the packed

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audience of family, friends, and well-wishers, and spoke of the individual and collective accomplishments of the Class of 2009.

“Academically, their performances have earned national recognition,” Mr. Philip said. “Artistically, their talents and dedication have brought this school a level of artistic success and renown that we have never before enjoyed. Athletically, they have led our teams of long standing, as well as those new to Brunswick, to championships of local, regional, and national stature.

Finally—perhaps more than anything—what is most impressive to me is how deeply this group of boys feels about Brunswick School, their school. We will long remember your class for all of your merits and the uniquely positive contributions you have brought forward.”

Valedictorian Preston Han introduced Sam Haig, who was honored by his classmates to be this year’s Ivy Speaker.

“I’m sure, like me, you’ve had at least one moment in the past couple of weeks where you find yourself suddenly feeling a twinge of nostalgia,” Sam said. “Even the other day, sitting in the library, I pondered doing something really wild—like walking in with a cup of coffee or chatting too loudly—with a friend just so that I could get my last scolding from Mrs. Fenton.”

In his remarks, he also said what a joy and privilege it’s been to be with his Brunswick friends, especially his Senior year.

“In the common striving towards this moment, we’ve been able to feel part of how great it is to journey through life with something outside of ourselves, with other human beings, and with a common goal or idea on the horizon,” Sam said. “Our camaraderie and shared sentiment have given you a glimpse of

what it is like to move forward with others, and yet, it has separated you a little from those who have not. If you can continue to move forward, never being ashamed of the gifts we have been given here and never using them to isolate ourselves from others, or even each other, we’ve made this day great. It’s our job, having learned this lesson, to humbly offer others the virtues by which Brunswick has brought us this far.”

Seth Potter, Upper School theater teacher, is one of the teachers responsible for the unbridled success of our arts program. He is enthusiastic, passionate, well-respected, and loved by his students. For these reasons, they distinguished him as this year’s Faculty Speaker.

In his first week at Brunswick, he recalled the whirlwind of activity—one day scrambling to sort and pack donated clothes for Katrina relief, and feeling frazzled from a field trip the next.

“Why are we not the ones behind the cages,” he joked of their trip to Bronx Zoo before adding with mock outrage, “Who are these boys?”

Despite these early dramas, Mr. Potter emphasized his affection for Brunswick and the inspiration he receives from his students.

“It is a privilege to witness you finding, and using, your own voices and to be a part of the dialogue,” he said, as he delivered the message to revere where one comes from.

“Use this groundwork from which you came to spark your own passions and realize your own dreams,” he said. “You are at the top of the rise. Many parents are feeling the way my mother does when I’m too close to a ledge. We trust your footing. Move forward with integrity and wonder.”

As the boy’s names were read and their Brunswick School diplomas collected, it was particularly poignant when Mr. Philip stepped aside to let Stephen Duennebier, Dean of Student Services and Assistant Head of Upper School, hand a diploma to his son, Jonny.

So how did that feel?

“Nostalgic,” said Mr. Duennebier. “Fourteen years of loving care by people who are also my friends made me feel more blessed than proud. Although clichéd, the phrase ‘It takes a village to raise a child’ did cross my mind. I thought fleetingly of all those villagers who had helped out—Mary Alice Ackley, John Pendergast, Anthony Fischetti, Mr. Cosby, Gillie Gilsenan, Sean Brennan, Seth Potter, Paul Raaen, Shane Kirsh … and countless others. When I handed Jonny his diploma, amidst the tears (which I think I hid pretty well), I felt profoundly proud of him and grateful of our village.”

As Mr. Philip resumed his presiding position at the podium, he spoke of how we will long remember the Class of 2009.

“On behalf of all of our students, faculty, board trustees, alumni, parents, and friends, we are grateful to the 80 graduates for all of the credit you have brought yourselves and our School during the time you have been with us. Thank you, gentlemen. Well done.” j

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• Brunswick School and Greenwich Academy proudly presented Les Misérables, Brunswick’s first major musical production in the new Baker Theater at the Upper School on Maher Avenue.

More than 70 Brunswick and Greenwich Academy students worked on the school version of the musical, which was performed entirely by them. The show played to sold-out audiences for three performances.

• Jonathan Drosos, along with winning the Youth of the Year award from the Boys & Girls Club, had received the 2009 Donald J. Lomme Student Athlete Scholarship.

A Year of Spirited Accomplishments The Class of 2009 is, indeed, one of merit. Some of the standouts this year include:

• On the intermediate level of the National Greek exam, Sam Haig, Tim O’Leary, Turner Smith, and Kyle Radler received High Honors. Another two students—Preston Han and Robbie Cortes—received Highest Honors, placing them among only 25 other test-takers in the country.

• Eleven members graduated with Cum Laude Society prestige.

Preston Han, Nishant Gurnani, Sam Haig, and Turner Smith were inducted as juniors, followed this year by James Baker, Robbie Cortes, and Kyle Radler as Seniors. To cap off the 2008– 2009 school year, four more Seniors were inducted on Senior Awards Day (May 18, 2009): Cole Stangler, Gates Torrey, Will Seaton, and Tim O’Leary.

• The Oracle, Brunswick’s literary and arts magazine, was honored with the “Superior” distinction from the National Council of the Teachers of English (NCTE) program to recognize excellence in student literary magazines.

• Sam Haig, Preston Han, and Owen Scannell were named finalists in the 2009 competition for National Merit scholarships.

• After being inspired by a Brunswick assembly speaker, Robert Swan, OBE (polar explorer, environmental leader), Connor Fitzpatrick and Paul Withstandley (Upper School Spanish teacher and Senior Class Dean) went on an Antarctic expedition with Swan’s organization, 2041. The mission of 2041 is to inform, engage, and inspire the next generation of leaders to take responsibility, to be sustainable, and to know that now is the time for action in policy development, business generation, and future technologies.

• Jonathan Drosos, along with winning the Youth of the Year award from the Boys & Girls Club, had received the 2009 Donald J. Lomme Student Athlete Scholarship.

• Cole Stangler and James Baker were recipients of the Gold Circle awards from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association.

• Kevin Royal, a standout athlete and celebrated Bruins wide receiver, was recruited for Division I Football at University of Virginia.

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Closing Exercises Full of Awards and Surprises Brunswick School proudly recognized the following award recipients at the Closing Exercise ceremony that marked the end of the 2008–2009 school year and the beginning of summer vacation.

Middle School Awards Eleanor G. Lindberg Award Jamie MacFarlane Awarded annually to a fifth grader of great promise, proven character, and good nature who has demonstrated courage when tested, has brought honor to family and school, and has always spoken and cherished the truth.

Virginia I. Peterson Award Kevin Griffith Awarded annually to a sixth grader for outstanding scholarship, citizenship, and sportsmanship.

The Seventh Grade Prize William O’Brien Awarded annually to a seventh grader for exemplifying the highest qualities of leadership, scholarship, and service to the community.

Eighth Grade Awards Kulukundis Cup Curren Iyer Awarded annually to the student who has achieved the highest academic standing in the eighth grade.

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Geis Cup Samuel Fraser Awarded annually to an eighth grader who is judged by his coaches and teammates to have made an outstanding contribution to the school in athletics because of his ability, enthusiasm, determination, and leadership.

Williamson Trophy Sean Forester Awarded annually to that student who comes nearest in athletics, scholarship, and character to achieving the ideals expressed in the Brunswick motto, “Courage, Honor, Truth.”

Upper School Awards Cum Laude David Blumenthal Bowen Dunnan Oliver Sall ** Please note that Alexander Jonokuchi, Gus Ruchman, and Thomas Rokholt were inducted mid-year into the Cum Laude Society Brunswick Alumni Award H. Carter Johnson Awarded annually to the freshman who best represents, in sportsmanship and character, the Brunswick tradition.

Princeton Alumni Award Spencer Dahl Awarded to the sophomore of recognized character who has combined outstanding academic ability with achievement in other fields during the past year.

Columbia Book Award Andrew Grasso Awarded to an outstanding member of the sophomore class who has demonstrated excellence in the humanities.

Oaklawn Award David Jaramillo Awarded to the sophomore who, in the opinion of his teachers and classmates, has contributed significantly to the life and spirit of Brunswick through scholarship, athletics, and service to others.

Yale Alumni Award Peter Kiernan IV Awarded to that junior who, in the opinion of Brunswick, has been most aware of the rights and feelings of others, and has demonstrated his concern for those around him.

Williams Book Award Thomas Rokholt Awarded to a junior in the top 5 percent of his class who has demonstrated intellectual leadership and has made a significant contribution to the extracurricular life of the school.

Harvard Book Prize Gus Ruchman Awarded to that junior who combines excellence in scholarship with achievement in other fields.

Brown Book Award Oliver Sall Awarded to that junior who has demonstrated excellence in the study of literature and composition.

Science Awards Rensselaer Award (11th grade) Thomas Rokholt Fairfield County Biology

Prize (11th grade) Alexander Jonokuchi

Modern Language Awards Jacques Bouffier French Foreign

Language Prize David Blumenthal

Cal Tech Award (11th grade) Gus Ruchman

William B. Dick Latin Prize David Blumenthal

Service Awards Grade 11 Nikhil Mehra

Arabic Award Gray Stangler Chinese Award Lawrence Lopez-Menzies Italian Award Philip Pierce Spanish Award Gus Ruchman

Mathematics Award Kenneth Merritt Mathematics

Award (9th grade) Peter Gatto

Grade 10 Alejandro Ceballos Grade 9 Rick Salame

Varsity Athletic Plaques Seniors Peter Castine—Football, hockey, lacrosse Billy Chapman—Football, hockey, lacrosse Taggie Martin—Soccer, hockey, golf Joe Scalzo—Football, basketball, baseball Garrett Virtue—Football, basketball, lacrosse

Juniors Chris Baldock—Soccer, squash, baseball Andrew Cohen—Football, wrestling, baseball Brett Moscati—Football, basketball, lacrosse Philip Pierce—Football, basketball, lacrosse Gus Ruchman—Cross country, fencing, sailing Sophomores Nick Garzona—Football, wrestling, baseball Alex Marcus—Football, wrestling, lacrosse

Faculty Awards John F. Otto Faculty Award Douglas Burdett Dedicated to those faculty members with the courage to pursue their individual vision with honesty and integrity so as to earn the appreciation of their critics and the loyalty of their peers.

Sheila Pultz Service to Brunswick Award Bonnie Cassone Dedicated by the Class of ’54 in honor of those members of the administration or staff who, over the years, have given loyally and unselfishly of their time and talents toward the betterment of Brunswick.

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Senior Awards of Distinction: At Brunswick School’s 107th Commencement, the following graduates received awards of distinction:

Kulukundis Cup for highest academic standing for the year: Preston Han

Thomas A. Altman Prize to that senior who, in his years at Brunswick, has maintained positive personal relationships in school, in sports, and in community service: Ă˜ivind H. Lorentzen

Faculty Citations given to those deserving Seniors who have brought credit to the School or the community by their efforts: Patrick B. Grissler

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Brunswick Community Service Award BPA Prize for the most outstanding record of community service: to a graduating Senior who has attended Thomas S. Chronert Brunswick for at least three years and whose improvement in scholarship and development of fine character make him worthy of citation: James T. Bradicich

Robert L. Cosby Award to that Senior who has attended Brunswick since Lower School and who, through his good nature, optimism, thoughtfulness, and character, has done the most to uplift the spirits of those around him and has, over the course of his extended tenure at the School, come closest to the embodiment of those unique characteristics which serve to define the namesake of this award: Jonathan J. Duennebier

Faculty Citations given to those deserving Seniors who have brought credit to the School or the community by their efforts: Nishant D. Gurnani

Faculty Citations given to those deserving Seniors who have brought credit to the School or the community by their efforts: James A. Baker

Faculty Citations given to those deserving Seniors who have brought credit to the School or the community by their efforts: Kyle B. Radler

1

The Jenkins Athletic Award to that senior who, true to the ideals of the School, has been judged by the coaches to have made an outstanding contribution to the School in athletics because of his ability, enthusiasm, determination, and leadership: William L. Chapman

Faculty Citations given to those deserving Seniors who have brought credit to the School or the community by their efforts: Chase E. Carter

Class of 2009 Senior Breakfast Senior Breakfast marked another benchmark for the boys as the Alumni Office welcomed them into the Brunswick School Alumni Association. Fellow alumni Jarrett Shine ’92 (newest member of the Brunswick Alumni Office), Jon Ryckman ’88, and Shep ’89 and Ian ’93 Murray spoke of fond ’Wick memories and how gratifying it is to stay in contact with their School.

The breakfast wrapped up with a fun (occasionally hilarious) slideshow of photos that moms dug out from the family coffers to share with fellow grads. As a parting gift, each of the boys received the slideshow DVD and a beau tie from vineyard vines.

(Thank you, Shep and Ian!)

We wish the Class of 2009 continued success in their upcoming venture at college, and all the days thereafter. Stay in touch!

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3

4 Headmaster’s Trophy to that senior who, because of his dependability, integrity, and character, has made an outstanding contribution to his class and Brunswick School: John-Samuel M. Haig

1. Jarrett Shine ’92 (second from left) welcomes the new Class Agents for Class of 2009—Sam Haig, Jonny Duennebier, Billy Chapman and Jack Carter.

2. Guest speakers/alumni/all-around great guys Ian ’93 and Shep ’89 Murray, cofounders of vineyard vines®.

3. Two of the Senior Breakfast speakers, Jon Ryckman ’88 and Jarrett Shine ’92, took a pause to pose.

4. A captivated audience watches the slideshow. Ahhh, the memories.

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class Notes Compiled by Libby Edwards and Leslie Lopez

1947 Yearbook photo for Grade 10

1962 “Hey Ol’ ’Wick buddy!” wrote Alan Bolte on a postcard to Ross Ogden while aboard the USS Constellation. He sent cheers to both classmate Ross and “… wonderful Charlie Tusa.”

Hawley Chester recently underwent successful quintuple heart-bypass surgery and is doing well. After just two weeks, he’s already working from home in Atlanta and hopes to be back on the road for Fox Sports and the Speed Channel soon. Although he lost a lot of weight while in the hospital, Hawley does not recommend this as a diet.

Peter H. Dunn’s 20-year-old son, Andrew Haines Dunn, was diagnosed with an aggressive lymphoma in March 2008.

Pete shared several lessons that have come from his family’s walk through the refiner’s fire. One lesson was, “… you learn to greatly treasure family, friends, and saints.” Pete wrote that Andy is recovering well. You can contact Pete at petros2002@earthlink.net.

1963 With a demanding slate of six committee assignments and one caucus-leadership position, Washington State’s 35th District Representative Fredrick W. Finn is getting down to business. After graduating from Brunswick, Fred earned a BA from Johns Hopkins University and a JD from Fordham University School of Law. He and his wife, Bonnie, have three children and one grandchild. Fred is a United States Army veteran. To read more about him, visit housedemocrats.wa.gov/members/finn/.

Alan Bolte ’62 postcard to Ross Ogden ’62

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CLASS NOTES

1966 Eric Holch recently released the seventh poster in his Nantucket series, entitled “Steps Beach”. Visit ericholch.com.

1969 Robert Selkowitz signed a publishing contract with AD Lines Eurogroup to promote several of his oils—featuring seaside pavilions, veranda paintings from Cape May and Chautauqua, and a view of mist at Heart Lake in the Adirondacks. Robert’s artwork will be displayed in Brunswick School’s new Performing Arts Center during Homecoming 2009, when he will be celebrating his 40th reunion. See Robert's portfolio at artfolks.com.

Denny Kernochan ’62 and family

Rev. Fr. Brendan Joseph McAnerney ’62 leads the Easter processional in Sacramento.

Derek A. Lee ’62, president, Abaco Cays Realty, Ltd., in the Bahamas

1972 William Schneider recently retired after a 30-year career on Wall Street and was named as a member of the Greenwich Land Trust Board of Directors. Following Brunswick, he attended Notre Dame and received a master’s degree from Pace University. Currently, Bill also serves on the Brunswick School Board of Trustees and on the Board of Directors at Indian Harbor Country Club.

“Steps Beach” by Eric Holch ’66

Charlie Tusa ’62 and his granddaughter, Morgan Lynch Tusa, at homecoming

1973 Chris Jenkins, senior vice president of Sound Services for Universal Operations Group, was a 2009 Oscar Award nominee for Best Achievement in Sound for the film Wanted (2008). Chris won two previous Oscars for Best Sound: The Last of the Mohicans

“Mohonk Porch Spring,” painting by Robert Selkowitz ’69

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CLASS NOTES

Eric Henderson ’92

Rick Ford ’75 in Shakespeare’s Henry V .

Randall Street’s ’88 best seller, Who:The A Method for Hiring

(Left to right) Rick Ford ’75 with Chris Ford ’81, and Madison Ford ’73.

Rich Nestro ’87 married Sarah Gonzalez in Miami on May 16. Classmate Tony Magliocco ’87 (right) congratulates the cheerful groom.

in 1993 and Out of Africa in 1986. Prior to Universal, Chris served as president of Todd-AO, a Hollywood icon for motion picture sound, where Chris’s brother, Adam Jenkins ’78, is a re-recording mix technician. Adam has four prime-time Emmy Awards under his belt, not to mention a dozen more Emmy nominations.

You can locate Chris at chris.jenkins@ nbcuni.com and Adam at toddao.com.

Canaan Alliance of Business Professionals.

After graduating from Brunswick, Morris attended George Washington University and Quinnipiac University School of Law. You can reach Morris online at thebarocaslawfirm.com.

Kevin Kerrigan, a news director for Sorensen Media Group’s Pacific News Center in Guam, has won national awards for investigative reporting. After graduation, Kevin received a degree in English literature from St. Lawrence University. Catchup with Kevin at kevinkerrigan.com.

Bill Ryckman and his wife, Pamela, are the proud parents of James Garland Ryckman, born on March 11 at 9:41 a.m.

Baby James clocked in at 8lbs 7.6 oz and 20.75 in.

1975 Rick Ford recently realized his lifelong dream of performing on Broadway. He appeared in the production of Shakespeare's Henry V at New Victory Theater in NYC in February. For more updates, go to rickfordactor.com.

Three Brunswick brothers—Rick ’75, Chris ’81 and Madison Ford ’73—reunited at the 35th Reunion. The photo (left) was sent in from Mary Hope Lewis, proud mother of the three “Brunswickians.”

1986

Captain Caleb Weiss ’94, United States Marine Corps, receiving the Bronze Star Medal.

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Morris Barocas, of The Barocas Law Firm, joined BNI Thrive, the Greenwich Chapter of Business Networking International. Morris lives in North Stamford and practices law from his New Canaan office. He is a founding member of the New

1987

1988 Randall Street’s first book, Who: The A Method for Hiring, hit best-seller status on The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Business Week, and USA Today book reviews.

1989 Ellis Peter Kashatus (“Ellis”) was born on March 19 to Peter Kashatus and wife, Jennifer. Many will recall that the Kashatus family has close ties with ’Wick. Pete’s dad was a member of the Brunswick faculty and a varsity football coach for many years.

Jarrett Shines On

By Bonni Brodnick

1990 David Haight, a physician, is currently in Washington, D.C., on a yearlong Armed Forces Primary Care Sports Medicine Fellowship. “On a daily basis, I’m at various locations in and around D.C. working in orthopedic, sports medicine, and family practice clinics, as well as at James Madison High School and Georgetown University.”

David mentioned that he and a group of friends recently took a trip to West Point to work with the varsity athletes.

Dave was “the lucky guy” chosen to be the physician to cover the Military World Championships in Boxing in Baku, Azerbaijan. As chief of mission, he was responsible for the United States contingent. “From dinners in 600-yearold restaurants and sightseeing tours through the cemeteries of Baku, to Thanksgiving dinner at the senior defense attaché officer’s house attended by the ambassador of Azerbaijan, the trip was a memorable one.” Keep in touch with Dave at tri15160@yahoo.com. Also visit Dave’s fundraising website for the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, active. com/donate/teamintrepid/davidhaight.

1992 Winston Bragg and his wife, Jen, purchased a home in Old Greenwich in early 2008. Winston wrote, “Home ownership has been challenging and rewarding at the same time.” He was recently named vice president of sales at Citation Shares. His wife recently began a fellowship within the Pediatric Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at

It’s a bright new day in the Development Office as Jarrett Shine ’92 begins his new position as Associate Director of Admissions and Alumni Affairs. In this capacity, he’ll work closely with Jeff Harris (Director of Admission) and Tom Murray (Director of Development) respectively, as well as with Marianne Barnum (Diversity Coordinator). In the fall, you’ll also find Jarrett at Cosby Field as head football coach of the Bruins.

Jarrett received his Bachelor of Science degree in math and economy from Lafayette College. Upon graduation, his entrepreneurial talents kicked in when he launched Shinewear, an athletic apparel company. He also helped launch NanoStatics, a nano-technology firm that produces high-end air filters for commercial and residential use. Most recently, Jarrett was manager of special projects for Foot Locker’s corporate office in NYC.

“It’s been 23 years since I came to Brunswick as a sixth grader in 1987,” Jarrett said. In Upper School, he played three sports: running back and defense free-safety in football, point guard in basketball, and shortstop in baseball.

“As Associate Director of Admissions and Alumni Affairs, I look forward to being in contact with friends, as well as getting more alumni involved with our School. I’m also looking forward to coaching the boys and hope to be a positive influence. I can’t think of anything more rewarding.

“I’m thrilled to be back at Brunswick and to have these opportunities both in Development and on the playing field,” he continued. “Brunswick is where I spent most of my life, so this is like coming home.”

“Jarrett brings so much to Brunswick,” said Tom Murray. “Having an alumnus in the Development Office is an asset and will greatly impact our friendraising and fundraising efforts. As head football coach, he’ll also provide terrific leadership to our boys.”

Join us as we give Jarrett a warm welcome back to ’Wick. He, his wife, Kyna, and their 1-year-old son, Landon (a future Bruin), reside in faculty housing on King Street.

Jarrett can be reached at jshine@brunswickschool.org or 800.546.9425.

Mt. Sinai Hospital (NYC). It’s a small world: Jen works with Blair Seidler Hammond GA ’92 and Caroline Martinez, wife of classmate Greg Martinez.

Eric Henderson, a Jackson Hole alpine guide, is a highly certified skiing instructor. In the spring, he leads heliskiing trips in Alaska, and never tires of powder days at Jackson Hole. In addition to skillful instruction, his clients keep coming back for his “traveled-the-world” stories. Contact Eric at ericshenderson@aol.com.

Adam Rankin recently graduated from the University of New Mexico School of Law in Albuquerque. Adam’s main interest was natural resources law, and he was one of two editors-in-chief on the school’s 2008–2009 Law’s Natural Resources Journal. This past year, Adam received a Joe Rudd Scholarship from the Rocky Mountain Mineral Law Foundation. He was one of five students from 13 different law schools to receive the prestigious scholarship. In September, he will be clerking for Edward L. Chavez, chief justice of the New Mexico

REUNION 2009 ALERT! Celebrate the years since graduation at Homecoming Weekend on Friday, October 23 (Alumni Golf Outing), and Saturday, October 24 (Homecoming festivities). Reunion year for classes ending in 4 and 9.

For more info, contact Libby Edwards at ledwards@brunswickschool.org or 800.546.9425. Look forward to seeing you!

Summer 2009 | Times of Brunswick

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Digital Photos We love pictures, and we like you to look good.

Here are some tips for sending us digital photos that will look fantastic in print:

• Set the photo size to 4 x 6 inches or larger, in 300 dpi • Set your digital camera to the best photo setting • Save files as JPG or TIFF • Identify everyone left to right in the photo and provide a caption • Email photos as attachments to Libby Edwards, ledwards@brunswickschool.org

If you’d rather send a traditional print (made from a negative), we love them, too, but please send them on GLOSSY paper whenever possible. Matte prints and prints from digital photos do NOT scan well. We cannot reproduce photos from photocopies, magazines, or newsprint. Mail prints to: Libby Edwards Brunswick School Alumni Office 100 Maher Avenue • Greenwich, CT 06830

Supreme Court. Adam is currently living in Santa Fe with his wife, Lauren, and their 21-month-old son, Theo.

Lonnie Rankin, Adam’s mom, attributes his accomplishments “… at least in part, to the great education he received at Brunswick.”

the hotel sent a hunter into the woods to kill a wild boar for the reception, and it was an all-around magical wedding day. The couple live in India, where Tom will attend an intensive year of business school at the Indian School of Business in Hyderabad.

1994

2000

Captain Caleb Weiss, United States Marine Corps, received the Bronze Star Medal for his distinguished and selfless service while in Afghanistan.

After his passionate efforts to advance the Democratic presidential campaign, Jake Heller moved to Washington, D.C., to work for President Obama’s transition team.

Jake is now the confidential assistant, Office of the Secretary, in the United States Department of Homeland Security. He reports directly to Brian de Vallance, the senior counselor to Secretary Janet Napolitano.

Jake and Chip Jones met up at the local Democratic headquarters in Marquette, Mich., the weekend before the presidential election.

1995 Thomas Hyland and his bride, Christa, were married in the hills of southern Tuscany, in a small town called Montefollo-nico. They were the first non-Italians married in the town. The mass was performed in Italian (including vows),

2001 Matthew Bloom married Kathryn Elder on December 20, 2008, at the Longboat Key Club in Fla. Matthew’s brothers, Jeremy and Steven, served as the groomsmen. After Brunswick, Matthew received a bachelor’s degree in history and a law degree from Yale University. He is a clerk for Judge Joel M. Flaum of the United States Court of Appeals Seventh Circuit in Chicago.

2003 Congratulations to Shane Heller, who was promoted to the rank of lieutenant in the United States Navy in May. Previously, Shane was a Navy pilot and an ensign. He received his wings and was designated a Naval aviator in January. Shane is now based at the Naval Air Station in Jacksonville, Fla., where he flies the P-3 Orion.

Shane and his brother, Jake, trained for Training Air Wing Four, located in Corpus Christi, Texas. Wing Four has been training the world’s premier military pilots for over 20 years.

Jamie MacDonald looks forward to attending George Washington Law School in fall of 2009.

REUNION 2009 ALERT! Celebrate the years since graduation at Homecoming Weekend on Friday, October 23 (Alumni Golf Outing), and Saturday, October 24 (Homecoming festivities). Reunion year for classes ending in 4 and 9.

For more info, contact Libby Edwards at ledwards@brunswickschool.org or 800.546.9425. Look forward to seeing you!

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CLASS NOTES

2004 This story begins back in 2003, with the curious minds of three classmates, some gear, an empty space, and a dedication to sonic exploration. Still jamming today are David “DL” Tashjian, singer/guitarist; Jared O’Connell, keyboardist; and Garrett Ienner, lead guitarist/noise man.

Congratulations to their band, A Brief Smile, this year’s grand prize winner of the Collegiate Nationals Music Championship. To hear the band’s music, check out their site, abriefsmile.com.

2005 Timothy Edwards helped lead Middlebury College to the New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC) championship and was named the NESCAC Defensive Player of the Year. “This is a great honor and it blows me away,” said 6'4" Edwards. Tim led the NESCAC in steals, was fourth in assists, averaged 6.7 points, and 5.7 rebounds per game. He also led Middlebury in defensive rebounds, steals, and was fourth in assists.

Charlie Tashjian has been captain of the Trinity College squash team for the 2008–2009 season.

Bart Witmer was heard screaming, “’Wick!” and “’Wick on ’Wick!” from the sidelines of the Middlebury vs. Connecticut College LAX game in March 2009, when Matt Virtue ’06 brought the ball down the field and passed it to Matt Ferrer, who was in front of the goal. Matt F. dumped the ball into the net to score on Connecticut College goalie, Mark Moran ’06. Although

Middlebury won the game, Mark was gracious and happy to see his ’Wick buddies postgame.

2007 In his first X-Games appearance, Chris Mahaney, one of the top-tier snowboarders in the United States, had been “laying down some sick runs during training for seeding” when he fractured his foot. He had a full erector set around his left foot and will be on the injured list for a while. To give your wishes for a speedy recovery, send an email to Chris at christopher.mahaney@coloradocollege.edu

Thomas Hyland ’95 and his bride, Christa

2008 Mark Figgie Jr. joined Bucknell University’s baseball squad. Hitting lefthanded and throwing right-handed, Mark showed potential both at the plate and on the mound while at camp. Mark’s father, Mark Figgie Sr., is a Bucknell alumnus who played both football and baseball.

Marcus Garfinkle has made great progress after being hit by a car in Los Angeles, and is recovering in Martha’s Vineyard with his dad. “Marcus is walking short distances with a cane, but he still needs crutches for the long distances,” wrote his mom, Barbara. “His legs are not fully healed, but with the rod implants he is able to walk. The rest of Marcus’ injuries are healing beautifully and he continues to put back the weight and muscle that was lost during his 5-week stay in the hospital. The two individuals responsible for the accident are in jail. Hearings are scheduled, so this will

Jake Heller ’00 and Chip Jones ’00

Jake Heller ’00 (left) and his brother, Shane ’03 (right)

Wick alums meet up at Middlebury vs.

Connecticut College LAX, (left to right) Bart Witmer ’05, Mark Moran ’06, Matt Ferrer ’05, and Matt Virtue ’06.

Summer 2009 | Times of Brunswick

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CLASS NOTES

be an ongoing process and trial that Marcus must deal with in the upcoming year.

“We look forward to Marcus’s continued progress. He will be returning to USC in the fall. Thank everyone very much for all the thoughts and prayers from Brunswick. It really meant a great deal to us.”

FACULTY NOTES Joey Bracchitta, Middle School music teacher, reports back from his hill climb race in June: “After 8 years of doing the Whiteface Mountain Hill Climb (N.Y.) race, I posted a personal best: 1 hour,

1 minute, 40 seconds—6 minutes better than last year’s race. Whiteface is almost identical to Alpe d’Huez, which is a mountain often used in the Tour de France: 8 miles long, 3,500 feet vertical.”

Bagpipes became a family affair when, this summer, Bill Douwes, former Brunswick history teacher and lacrosse coach (1978 to 1985), together with his 12-year-old son, Alexander, attended bagpipe camp.

Father and son were among 100 musicians enrolled in the North American Academy of Piping and Drumming in Valle Crucis, N.C. A highlight of their week was playing three Scottish and Gaelic tunes—Scotland the Brave, The Green Hills of Tyrol and Amazing Grace—at the opening ceremonies. “Imagine 70 pipers and 25 drummers all dressed in different

garb,” Bill Douwes said.

The experience took Bill back to his childhood years spent in Glasgow in his mother’s native Scotland. “There was always pipe music in the house,” he said. Email Bill Douwes at dryfly65@hotmail.com.

Joey Bracchitta, Middle School music teacher

REUNION 2009 ALERT! Celebrate the years since graduation at Homecoming Weekend on Friday, October 23 (Alumni Golf Outing), and Saturday, October 24 (Homecoming festivities).

Reunion year for classes ending in 4 and 9.

For more info, contact Libby Edwards at ledwards@brunswickschool.org or 800.546.9425.

Look forward to seeing you!

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CLASS NOTES

in memoriam Paul D. Burg ’62 of Sarasota, Fla., passed away on August 18, 2008.

Hawley T. Chester, Jr. died on September 28, 2008, at the age of 90. Three children, Tracy Chester, GA ’61, Hawley T. Chester III ’62, and Peter Chester ’68, six grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, survive him.

John S. Herold ’32 passed away in August 2008.

Gregory Scott Hillman ’07 of Darien, Conn., and North Pownal, Vt., who was a talented musician, drowned in the Hoosic River in North Adams, Mass., sometime after July 4. He was 21. Born in Stamford on July 1, 1988, he was a son of Peter and Lisa Hillman of Darien.

Gregory had an intellect that plumbed beyond the ordinary intellectual, his family said. He played the guitar, piano, keyboards, bass and drums. “He was a highly accomplished musician, composer, lyricist, singer, and songwriter, and played and recorded in a long string of bands from an early age,” the family said. “He also was a good athlete and particularly enjoyed basketball and baseball.”

Generous, sensitive, full of humor, iconoclastic, and loving, the family said, “Gregory was a spirited individual. He was beloved by many friends, to whom he was faithfully devoted, always making himself available in a time of need. May his spirit and soul live forever in ours.”

Laura Woodberry Jessiman, mother of Hugh ’02, Andrew ’04, and Margaret, GA ’08 passed away on June 24 near Durness, Scotland, after a hiking accident while vacationing with her family at their second home in Scourie. Mrs. Jessiman, 51, was the wife of Alistair Jessiman. She grew up in Greenwich and attended Greenwich Academy before graduating from the Madeira School in Virginia. At Dartmouth College, she captained the women’s rowing team, wrote for the student newspaper, and graduated in 1980 with the highest distinction in Asian studies.

William Joseph O’Shea of Greenwich passed away on December 18, 2008, at the age of 75. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Charlotte Donovan O’Shea, and their children Charlotte Glovin, GA ’83, William O’Shea ’84, Daniel O’Shea ’86, Stephen O’Shea ’88 and Emily O’Shea-Creeden, GA ’92. Bill was a beloved and devoted husband, father and grandfather, who most loved gathering his brood for family reunions in Lake Placid, N.Y.

Walter A. Peek of Beaver Falls, Pa., father of Walter D. Peek II ’76 and grandfather of Walter Peek ’07, died on April 17, 2009, at the age of 82. Before Mr. Peek’s retirement in 1996, he enjoyed a career in the paper industry, serving as president of Walter D. Peek Inc., a paper sales company started by his father.

Carol Gordon Pollack of Bedford, died on February 19, 2009. Carol enjoyed and took great pride in her work as a learning specialist at Brunswick. She is survived by her husband, Alben, three children and seven grandchildren.

Bruce Warren Regnemer passed away on December 20, 2008. He was born on October 26, 1923, in Stamford, Conn.

After Brunswick, he attended Clark School and the University of Vermont where he was a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity.

Mary, beloved wife of Robert D. Shumacher ’52, passed away in September 2008. j

Summer 2009 | Times of Brunswick

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Viewpoint: Student Perspective

By Nishant D. Gurnani ’09

A Senior Voice is a graduation requirement in which each member of the graduating class is required to give a speech to his classmates. The practical purpose of this is to encourage public speaking skills.

However, the Senior Voice holds a more special purpose as a farewell message to classmates. Subject choice is open, but the talk must be about whatever topic holds meaning to that senior.

This past year topics ranged from hilarious stories about Middle School class trips, to the responsibilities of becoming a godfather, to the sadness of losing one’s father. The common theme, though, that ran through all of the Senior Voices was the amount of love and appreciation that we, as a class, have for this School and everyone who makes it what it is. In a gesture unheard of for young 18-year-old males, almost every member of the senior class ended his Voice declaring his feelings for his classmates with four simple words, “I love you guys.”

Below is an excerpt from my own Senior Voice in which I decided to tell two anecdotes that revealed something about myself that most of my classmates wouldn’t have known.

looking one, if I might add. My entire role consisted of waiting upstage in a trashcan for the right moment when I would pounce, do a forward roll, and then burst into song with the entire cast. It was an epic two minutes of theater, two minutes that opened the door to a world that I had not previously known existed— a world of creative expression and exploration.

Over the years, I have done a number of crazy things in the name of theater. I have donned a dress and played a woman on more occasions than I would like to recount. I have worn yellow stockings and paraded around in a most questionable manner, and I have learned how to juggle multiple objects while singing. Recently, I even learned how to walk on stilts while wearing a spider costume.

For this, and many more reasons, I love acting. It lets me explore a different side of who I am and lets me do things I would have never done. I mean, how many people do you know who can walk on stilts?

What started as forced participation in 1st grade ended up becoming a lifelong passion that allowed me to discover the non-math, non-nerdy side of who I am.

Ultimately, though, acting has allowed me to meet girls, which, of course, is the point of life. Plus, let’s face it, girls are more responsive if you intro“In a gesture unheard of for young duce yourself as an “Actor,” than say 18-year-old males, almost every “Captain of the Math Team.” Actumember of the senior class ended his ally, I always introduce myself as an Voice declaring his feelings for his classaward-winning actor because I once mates with four simple words, received an award for doing it.

“I love you guys.”

The second anecdote of my Senior Voice is about Identity: On August 26, 2006, I depart The first anecdote is really about ed the Middle Eastern country of BahDiscovery: rain and landed at JFK. I left behind 15

I began my illustrious acting career years of my life’s memories and ended in a 1st grade production titled Rubbish. up here at Brunswick. The only person For reasons that I cannot remember, I auI knew was Mr. (Jeffry) Harris and the ditioned to play an ordinary domesticated confines of his office defined my underhousehold pet. I was a cat. A rather goodstanding of the School.

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I had imagined that these three years as an upper classman would simply go by as unimportant and insignificant in my journey to college and beyond. I couldn’t have been more wrong. These past three years have truly been the best of my life.

Never have I felt the amount of love and warmth that I have felt at Brunswick. George E. Carmichael, our School founder, hit the nail on the head when he said, “Wherever you go, Brunswick goes with you.”

It truly does. I wish I had something greater up here with me than my words to really express what I feel for this place and for all the people I have met here. Since I don’t, I am going to say something really cheesy, and hopefully you will be able to look beyond that and hear what I have to say. Here goes:

I am an Indian. I was born an Indian and I will die an Indian. No matter how many years I end up living in the United States, I will never consider myself to be an American. I will, however, always be—for as long as I live—a Man of Brunswick.

I love you guys.

Brunswick School “Lifers” include students who have been at ’Wick since Pre-K. Left to right: Scott Matthews, Brent Yarnell, Colin O’Connell, Daniel O’Neill, Jonny Duennebier, Chase Carter, Diego Gonzalez-Bunster, Michael Byrnes, Henrie McCann, Taylor Black, Billy Chapman, Ray Duffy, Turner Smith, Perry Reid and Coulter Bailey.

Class of 2009 Destinations Hurst, Spencer.......................................... Middlebury College Johnson, Ian.................................................... Amherst College Keeshan, Harry.............................................Hamilton College Kenny, Conor...................................... University of Richmond Ketchum, Frederick............................................Yale University King, Bridges........................ University of California–Berkeley Kono, Christopher............................College of the Holy Cross Kyriakos, Peter......................................Wake Forest University Lorentzen, Øivind.......................................Stanford University Mahaney, David (Chan)........................Georgetown University Martin, Taggert...................................................Colby College Matthews, Scott............................................ Davidson College McCann, Henrie......................... Claremont McKenna College O’Connell, Colin.......................................... Brown University O’Leary, Timothy......................................Princeton University O’Neill, Daniel........................................ Columbia University Payton, Charles...................................... University of Vermont Preziosi, Benard.......................................... Bucknell University Pucci, Michael....................................................Trinity College Radler, Kyle.............................................. Columbia University Reid, Perry............................................. University of Vermont Rosencrans, Jay................................................ Elon University Royal, Kevin............................................ University of Virginia Scalzo, Joseph..............................Washington & Lee University Scannell, Peter (Owen) . ............................ Dartmouth College Schott, Kristian........................... West Point Military Academy Seaton, William.......................................... Stanford University Seaver, Brendan........................................... Harvard University Smith, Turner............................................Princeton University Stanco, Christian . .................................... Villanova University Stangler, Cole........................................Georgetown University Tabah, Ben.................................................Middlebury College Torrey, Gates.............................................Princeton University Van Ness, Leighton.......... University of St. Andrews (Scotland) Vik, Alexander ................................................ Tufts University Virtue, Garrett....................................... University of Vermont Weinberg, Charles..................................... Middlebury College Williams, Edward.................. University of California–Berkeley Yarnell, Brent................................................... Tufts University Zannino, Jesse............................................... Brown University

Winter 2009

Bailey, Coulter.............................................Denison University Baker, James..................................... University of Notre Dame Barbe, Chase.................................................. Hill School (PG) Black, Taylor................................................ Cornell University Bradicich, James.................... University of Southern California Byrnes, Michael........................................... Dickinson College Campbell, Kareem................................Georgetown University Carter, Chase............................................ University of Denver Carter, Jack............................................. University of Virginia Cassidy, Daniel . ...............................College of the Holy Cross Cassidy, Thomas........................................ Villanova University Castine, Peter.....................................Miami University (Ohio) Ceci, Milo.................................Catholic University of America Chapman, William.................................... Middlebury College Chase, Matthew................................ Hobart & William Smith Chronert, Thomas..........................U.S. Coast Guard Academy Clark, Kevin.......................................................Trinity College Cortes, Robert............................................ Stanford University Daiber, William..................................................Trinity College Doyle, Patrick....................... University of Southern California Drennen, William..............................................Trinity College Drosos, Jonathan.......................Stevens Institute of Technology Duennebier, Jonathan................................... Skidmore College Duffy, Raymond..................................................Colby College Fitzpatrick, Connor...................................... Cornell University Fitzpatrick, James..................................... St. Michael’s College Furlong, Michael........................................... Emory University Gerdts, Charles........................................Vanderbilt University Gonzalez-Bunster, Diego.......................Georgetown University Grannum, Jordan............................................. Ursinus College Grissler, Patrick.........................................Franklin & Marshall Gurnani, Nishant .....................................Princeton University Haig, John-Samuel.............................................Yale University Haley, Peter.......................................................... Bates College Han, Preston............................................... Harvard University Hart, Nicholas............................................... Davidson College Hoch, William................................................ Duke University Holmes, William...................................University of Rochester Holzschuh, Adam..................................Georgetown University Huber, Tripp.......................................................Colby College

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Brunswick School

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