Times of Brunswick | Winter 2010

WINTER 2010

Building Schools:

Gregg Bell ’03 Brings the Spirit of Brunswick to Rural Peru Elie Wiesel Urges Students to “Think Higher, Feel Deeper” Bill Dick Remembered: Teacher, Mentor, Bridge-Maker

WINTER 2010

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

B oard of T rustees 2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0

Headmaster Thomas W. Philip

William A. Durkin III ’72 Chairman

Director of D e v e l opment Thomas Murray E ditor - in-Chief Bonni Brodnick bbrodnick@brunswickschool.org Cl ass N otes Editor Libby Edwards ledwards@brunswickschool.org S ports Editor Diana Samponaro dsamponaro@brunswickschool.org Contributors Anne Adler, Rhonda Bonom, Diane Briggs, Krista Bruce, Libby Edwards, Andrew Hall, Leslie Lopez, Brian Shepard, Jarrett Shine, John Waddill ’12 Contributing W riters Ali Al-Maqtari, Jack Baker ’15, Mikel Berrier, Tucker Hastings, Koby Ofori ’19, Lindsay Ofori (CSH ’17), Steve Polikoff, David S. Thomson ’43, Eric Tillman, Ed Trenkmann ’45, Innocent Tswamuno ’10

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

John R. Harvey ’84 Jeffrey R. Holzschuh Andrew H. Jacobson David B. MacFarlane Lisa G. Matthews D. Ian McKinnon Sanjeev K. Mehra Ian C. Murray ’93 Shepherd P. Murray ’89 Thomas D. O’Malley, Jr. ’85 Michael J. Odrich Charles Paternina

Suzanne A. Peisch Clifton S. Robbins William A. Schneider ’72 Lucy C. Stitzer J. Edward Virtue Simon J. Williams Tracy R. Wolstencroft Ex Officio Anne B. Castine

Brunswick School, founded in 1902, is an independent college-preparatory day school for 923 boys in grades Pre-K through 12. The Upper School grades 9 through12 have a coordinate program with Greenwich Academy, a neighboring girls’ school. In a community of challenging academics; comprehensive arts, drama and music programs; along with 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:

Cov er P hoto Gregg Bell ’03

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

30 Trees preserved for the future 1,400 lbs. Air emissions not generated 86 lbs. Waterborne waste not created

I N S E T C over P hoto Mario Flores Mamani

1,860 Cubic feet natural gas unused 12,663 Gallons wastewater flow saved

Contributing Photographers Mikel Berrier, Diane Briggs, Mike Buddy, Dan Burns, Beba Errichetti, Andrew Gosden ’04, Matt Savitt ’12, ChiChi Ubiña, Simon Williams D esigner Good Design LLC www.gooddesignusa.com Printing Original Impressions Miami, Florida

1,402 lbs. Solid waste not generated

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

2,759 lbs. Net greenhouse gases prevented

Not driving 1,386 miles

21,115,899 BTUs energy not consumed

OR Planting 95 trees 100%

Front cover: Luis Alvores Oviedo (age 11) studying in his new school.

Inset photo: Gregg Bell ’03 meeting with community leaders, parents and future students.

10 4 F eatures

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BUILDING SCHOOLS: Gregg Bell ’03 Brings the Spirit of Brunswick to Rural Peru Story & Photography by Gregg Bell ’03

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Elie Wiesel Urges Brunswick Students to “Think higher, feel deeper”

by Bonni Brodnick

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My People

by Innocent Tswamuno ’10

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Teachers en VacanceS in Faraway Places 13

D epartments 2 Message from the Headmaster

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3 Letters to the Editor 22 ’Wick Snippets

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Visit by author/illustrator Patricia Polacco; GonzalezBunster Family Foundation; AIDS pioneer David Ho at Brunswick; Ofori’s in Ghana

26 Sports Roundup 31 Beyond the Classroom The Blue Notes in New Orleans; Jacques Bouffier; Gus Ruchman “Future Global Leader Award”; Meet & Greet; MA = nMB; United Way; Sarah Canning GA’10; “Path to Awakening”; Brunswick gets greener

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Q & A with Bill Durkin ’72: Seeing Brunswick From a Wide Perspective

by Bonni Brodnick

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My New Friends in Bali

by Jack Baker ’15

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A Look Back with David S. Thomson ’43 & Edward Trenkmann ’45

2009 40 41 Homecoming Golf Outing at the Griff was Brrrrrr

by Bonni Brodnick

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34 Brunswick Alumni 54 Class Notes and Faculty Notes

61 In Memoriam

Learning Languages & Cultures via Travel: Our Trip to Morocco

by Ali Al-Maqtari, Upper School Arabic and French Teacher Brunswick’s First Summer Immersion Program in France Story & Photography by Mikel Berrier, Upper School French Teacher

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The 2009 Distinguished Alumni Award Weather Report: Rainy with a Chance of More Rain

by Bonni Brodnick Bill Dick Remembered: Teacher, Mentor, Bridge-Maker

Message from the HEADMASTER

A r s e n i c a n d O l d L ac e : A True Brunswick Moment Every Thursday at 10:30 a.m. we hold our weekly Upper School Assembly in Baker Theater. Usually we start with a variety of announcements: upcoming club meetings, home and away games and departure times, etc. Once the details of the week are out of the way, we follow with a special presentation.

On the day before opening night, our plan was to present a preview from the Upper School theater department’s fall production, Arsenic and Old Lace.

Just as the boys were filing into Baker Theater for the weekly assembly, however, the fire alarm sounded (it turns out they were steaming vegetables in the kitchen). In well-practiced fashion, the boys responded to the alarm by heading up to the Pre School playground (where repeated fire drills have trained them to gather) to await the green light that all was clear to return to Maher Avenue.

In typical Brunswick fashion, instead of looking at the fire drill as a delay to performing the preview, Seth Potter (Upper School theater teacher) embraced the opportunity to go on with the show. Since cast members were already in costume and makeup, they presented their scene right there in the Pre School playground. The swings, picnic table, and jungle gyms provided

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“I was also struck by how caring, attentive, and enthusiastic their fellow classmates were to their efforts.

Everyone wanted to make it work so they adapted to the situation.” makeshift staging as cast members gave an impromptu performance in front of a quickly arranged circle of 300 or so Upper School boys.

Arsenic and Old Lace is about dealing with absurd and unanticipated challenges that present themselves when we least expect them. In the scene performed, the lead character of Mortimer is dealing with the unexpected (not unlike us at that moment). In his case, however, the “unexpected” was finding out that his two dear old aunts had a side business of murdering elderly bachelors who come to their door seeking a room to rent.

Like the fire alarm going off just before the preview, the cast and audience adapted and made the best of the given situation.

And beyond the quality of our actors’ performances and the obvious degree of their talent and preparation, I was also struck by how caring, attentive, and enthusiastic their fellow classmates were to their efforts. Everyone wanted to make it work so they adapted to the situation.

The unforeseen interruption of the fire drill made way for a great Brunswick moment: fun for all and a testament to the quality of our students.

I love days like that!

Thomas W. Philip

Summer 2009

Letters to the E D I TO R

e to Antarctica

Crossing the Drake Passag

ler ’01

ReLAX with Matt Whee Royal Bruins’ Victory at Henley

Regatta

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Looking at “Class Notes” in Times of Brunswick (summer 2009, page 60), I noticed the lead photo showing Grade 10 in 1947. This 62-year-old photo brought back memories from my own days at Brunswick.

I am sending a photo from 1947 (see photo #1) that shows what three of us 8th graders did during a midwinter science trip to the Planetarium, led by Mr. Keaney, former science teacher. We had our picture taken at one of those ubiquitous Broadway shops where they call (cajole?) you in and set you up in a “realistic” situation. The beer bottles were, of course, props—like the fire hat, the horse, the backdrop, and everything else in the photo . . . except us.

(8th graders—12–13 year olds—could never have bought beer, not in 1947, even in NYC.) Photo #2, 2 taken from my 1947 yearbook, is complete with classmate autographs. Bruce’s, Ed’s and my faces are encircled, and the description of the trip to the Planetarium is outlined.

Ken Towe Class of 1947

Photos 1. Bruce Simpson, Edward Seldon, and Ken Towe 2. 1947 Yearbook page with classmate autographs

Congratulations on another great issue.

Thank you!

Jane Preziosi Brunswick Parent

Caught the photo of the 10th Grade Class in 1947 in Times of Brunswick (summer 2009, page 60). Front Row/ middle: that’s me, Edgar MacBurney Storm (Mac Storm). The student on the far right is Jack Thompson. He and I used to crack hard-boiled eggs over each other’s heads during lunch … until the day mine was uncooked. I was sent home by Headmaster Everett, and boy, was my mother angry. She marched me back to Brunswick and confronted the Headmaster. He relented, and let me back in. It was a great adventure. Apparently, what happened was that my father had put the wrong egg (uncooked) in my lunch. (Hey, stuff happens.)

I also used to take a whole sandwich to school for a mid-morning snack so I’d put on a little weight. Couldn’t finish a whole sandwich so the athletic coach, Mr. King, would eat the other half for me every day. I did grow up, finally, to become a 160-pound monster.

I live in Savannah, Ga., and have two guest-rooms for old classmates.

Look forward to hearing from them (macstorm@juno.com).

Thanks, Mac Storm Class of 1949

We welcome your comments and letters to the editor.

Please contact bbrodnick@brunswickschool.org Winter 2010 | Times of Brunswick

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Little Ellie, with her long dark hair and delicate eyes, has been helping her mother sort rubbish for as long as she can remember. At the age of eight, she works all afternoon and into the night, alongside her twin brother Marco, separating glass, metal, and cardboard, instead of playing with friends or toys. She receives a small wage for her work, which goes towards food. “I am happy to help the family,� Ellie says, ignoring the cuts on her hands from picking up scraps of sharp glass as she sifts through mounds of trash on the dirty streets of Milagro, a shantytown where she lives in the desert on the outskirts of Trujillo, Peru.

Her face tells the story of a lost childhood.

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Building Schools: Gregg Bell ’03 Brings the Spirit of Brunswick to Rural Peru Story & Photography by Gregg Bell ’03

Winter 2010 | Times of Brunswick

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hen I met 8-year old Ellie for the first time, all I could think about was how fortunate I was to have been given a Brunswick School education, and all the opportunities that came with it.

My journey began one year ago. I had been traveling with a friend, hiking in South America, when I was unexpectedly confronted with the lives of street children. On my way to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, I stumbled upon the city dump of Milagro, where over 1,000 people—mostly children under the age of 18 like Ellie—live and work daily on top of rotting trash.

The scene of hardship, destitution, and misfortune was overwhelming, particularly because these were children, with neither a school to attend nor a home in which to take refuge. They had no teachers to inspire them, no sports practices to look forward to after class, and no opportunity to find a passion in their lives.

In the surrounding villages, it was impossible to go anywhere without kids of all ages swarming around me selling cigarettes, candies, or simply begging for food or money. These were not all orphaned children, but those with parents had no financial support from them. In talking to some of the mothers and fathers, I learned that illiteracy was the norm, not the exception. In every instance, the adults asked nothing for themselves; all they wanted was an education for their children, the promise of a better future.

Though I was humbled by the humility of the parents and children I met, my memories of Peru were mostly discomforting.

I felt the need to do something, something that could empower the children I encountered to break from the vicious cycle of poverty. The parents and I mutually expressed the need for an educational facility in the town of Milagro to provide the community’s children with a rudimentary education.

After returning from my trip in South America, I founded Andino International, a humanitarian organization that provides children like Ellie a chance to go to school. The organization was also created to find solutions to the many barriers preventing impoverished children from receiving an education. I made a pledge to develop tangible results, transparent financing, and self-sustaining programs.

A basic education is the single most effective means of overcoming poverty, and reports show that over a quarter of school-aged children in the Andean region of Peru are not in schools. Complicating the education problem are staggering regional statistics on poverty from the World Bank: two out of every five children under the age of nine—some 43 million children—live on less than $2 a day, and over 70 percent of the Andean region’s population live below the poverty line. Recognizing the great transformative power of an education on both lives and communities, Andino International’s objective is to get these children in schools. The first step towards that goal was building one school, funds for which were raised by donations from family and friends, along with a number of corporate matched donations and my own contribution. The ongoing

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campaign, known as “Give An Education”, is currently raising funds for our next construction project.

On my next trip back to Milagro, I met with the city board of education, solicited local support, and converted an abandoned store into a one-room schoolhouse, where Ellie, her siblings, and other children in her town could learn language and arithmetic, and receive a meal. Because many families cannot survive without the income from their children’s work, classes were scheduled in the mornings, allowing students to continue work obligations at night. The free cold meal prepared by the teacher at school helps cover lost income from not working in the morning. The critical challenge is making education the priority amidst a host of other concerns that come along with living in extreme poverty and the struggle to survive on a day-by-day basis. Success of my first school establishment project inspired several additional trips to the region.

Today, Andino International is a registered 501(c)3 charity and is positioned to grow. Andino opened its first primary school in June 2009, and is currently providing financial support to eight under funded public schools. To date, we have built one single-classroom primary school where 31 children—between the ages of 6 and 12 years old—attend daily classes. Many are receiving a formal education for the first time. The school operates year-round with a summer session January through March.

The organization is currently working on its second formation project: the extensive renovation and expansion of a primary through secondary school in the town of Socabaya Characato. The two-classroom school is in immediate need of repair as the walls are literally falling down, creating an unsafe environment. Working with the community every step of the way, we plan to reopen the school for the March 2010 school year start. For decades to come the elementary school will be a place of study and recreation for

2 1. (previous page) Siblings, Marco (age 11) and Lucero (age 7) at work in the city dump.

2. Playing on a community swing. Marco (age 11), Lucero (age 7), Gregg.

3. (left to right): Rosaria and Nayely, both age 6, learning the alphabet.

4. Leo (age 7) at an under funded school, which consists of only three walls and a tarp roof.

5. Houses in Milagro, Peru.

6. Ellie (age 8) ready for the first day of school.

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A basic education is the single most effective means of overcoming poverty, and reports show that over a quarter of school-aged children in the Andean region of Peru are not in schools.

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Recognizing the great transformative power of 8

an education on both lives and communities, Andino International’s objective is to get these children in schools.

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over 70 students, many of who will be starting this March having never stepped inside a classroom or onto a playground. After the renovations of the building are completed, the building’s capacity will more than double the current student body of 30. The project includes the addition of bathrooms for both genders, installation of electrical wiring and running water, luxuries enjoyed by only a fraction of the community. As is the case with our other school, the facility is public, has government appointed, college-educated teachers and will be free of cost to all students. The charity has a local staff that monitors the schools and is in constant communication with our volunteers in the U.S.

Andino International operates by seeking out street children who are not being educated, by understanding and partnering with the local community, and then by providing the expertise and funding to construct schools for maximum impact.

When you go abroad and see abject poverty for the first time the experience sticks with you. Regardless of whether or not it is your first time, the emotions do not change. On what I thought was going to be merely a vacation, I had the realization that it was within my ability to change the lives of a community and to make a lasting impact.

But this is hardly a unique epiphany. At Brunswick School, there are Big Brother friendships with Lower Schoolers, Community Service Day trips to retirement homes, food drives and international service projects—all part of how Brunswick teaches you early to have confidence in your ability to positively influence others, at any age and on any level.

Brunswick students are members of a generation that is among the first to have a truly global perspective. Whether it is due to ease of travel, global social networks, or instant news updates, the capacity for young Americans today to understand the problems of the world and seek solutions is simply unprecedented.

I hope current Brunswick students and alumni are inspired by my story to take action in whatever form they choose.

This February, the Brunswick Center for the Arts will exhibit my photographs to showcase the stories of children benefiting from our campaign. Readers interested in learning more about the Give An Education campaign may contact Andino International at info@AndinoInternational.org or visit our website at AndinoInternational.org. j 7. Bustamonte town center, home to many of our students, exists without electricity or running water.

8. Maria (age 7) anxiously anticipates an opportunity she has awaited her entire life: going to school.

9. Children living on the street. Front: Leonel (age 11). Back row (left to right): Marco (age 11), Jordan (age 9) and Lucero (age 7).

10. Gregg Bell ’03 and Andino International community leaders.

(Photo: Mario Flores Mamani) 11. Juan Carlos (age 10) in an open “classroom.”

The chickens underfoot contribute to sickness and disease.

12. Students outside their classroom. (left to right): Rosaria (age 6), Gregg, Dina (age 7) and Luis (age 11).

13. Mario Flores, Peruvian director of operations, painting stools for the new classroom.

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Elie Wiesel Urges Brunswick Students To

“Think higher, feel deeper”

By Bonni Brodnick

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great writers, such as Franz Kafka and James Joyce who were initially unable to write about World War I.

“There are no words for certain tragedies,” Professor Wiesel said. “And there are certain tragedies that contain so much pain and so many tears and so many siren screams that there are no words for them. So the silence became its own language.”

He responded to questions from students about what can be done to prevent future tragedies like the Holocaust, Cambodia, and Rwanda from taking place.

“Has the world learned at all? The world has not learned, which is a very sad statement,” he said. “The answer to how to keep it from ever happening again is to not relinquish your own responsibility. As you go to university and make new friends, remember the mantra I tell myself: ‘Think higher, feel deeper.’ If you do that, you cannot go wrong.”

“The lesson to take away is that civilized people have the capacity to do wonderful things and terrible things,” said Headmaster Thomas W. Philip. “It is our wish after hearing a presentation such as Professor Wiesel’s, that our boys will come to appreciate their obligation to always use their gifts for the good of mankind.” j

“I believe every human being is in their own way uniquely unique.”

Photo: Dan Burns

There was a palpable hush of austerity in Baker Theater as Elie Wiesel sat in the front row ready to take the podium. The professor, political activist, Holocaust survivor, author of 57 books, and recipient of a Nobel Peace Prize, Presidential Medal of Freedom, and Congressional Gold Medal was surely a great in our midst. He came to Brunswick with a powerful message: “Think higher, feel deeper.” “Sometimes a handshake has the weight of a poem.”

“Professor Wiesel is a true teacher to all mankind on the subject of humanity,” said Paul Withstandley, Brunswick School Senior Class Dean and Upper School Spanish teacher responsible for facilitating the guest speaker through friends of Brunswick.

“It is our profound honor to host him at today’s assembly.”

Professor Wiesel spoke about his book, Night, a memoir that describes his experiences during the Holocaust and his imprisonment in several concentration camps, where he lost his father, mother, and sister. Many of the Brunswick students had read the book and were in awe to hear the writer speak firsthand about the unimaginable horrors experienced at the hands of Nazis.

“While on one level, my book discusses the grotesqueness, the absurdity and the ugliness of war, it is also about the greater question: why did the Holocaust happen? There were roots in anti-Semitism and people in power finding a convenient scapegoat, but that wasn’t the complete answer because it didn’t explain why a cultured, educated country such as Germany— which had given so much to the world through writers and composers and philosophers—would allow the Holocaust to happen, not just to Jews, but to the Slavic people, Gypsies, homosexuals, and everyone else killed by Hitler. When evil conquers the territory of the heart, nothing can stop it.

“No human being is replaceable,” Professor Wiesel continued. “The functions we perform are replaceable, but not the human being. I believe every human being is in their own way uniquely unique. There will never be another you or you or you or I,” he said as he gestured to the audience.

During a question and answer after the talk, a student asked Professor Wiesel why he traveled the world telling his stories rather than trying to forget the inhumanity of his experience.

“To forget would give the enemy a posthumous victory. I don’t want that enemy to prevail. Ever.”

Professor Wiesel said he had to wait 10 years after the end of World War II to write Night because he was afraid he didn’t have the right words to use. He compared this to

“As I listened to Eli Wiesel’s speech, I was reminded of the atrocities that are being committed by the current ruling political party in Zimbabwe, my home. I searched deep inside my heart for a way I could make these things known and for a way that might make a difference in the lives of many. I haven’t yet figured that out, but Professor Wiesel inspired me to write the following poem.”

—Innocent Tswamuno ’10

My People

By Innocent Tswamuno ’10 They groan in pain.

Their livelihood has been strangled The muscle of survival has been weakened.

Every day they bear their cross Wear crowns made of thorns And deep into the abyss they are led Like lambs to the slaughter.

Its not by choice, it is by force Not just an ordinary force It’s a heavy shackle gripping their feet Stopping them from dancing.

Every night they live underneath Shadows of fear.

With the eyes of the evil one fixed on them.

Eyes searching for someone to devour.

They used to be heroes now they are villains They used to be kings now they are servants They have been removed from the heavens And have been dumped in the ash heap A place where they can dine with the devil And taste the edge of the sword.

The fruit of their sins is ripe It has become larger than the tree It has consumed them and left them emaciated It’s a heavy burden on their shoulders A cloudy emulsion obstructing their view They are deficient of tomorrow Clothed in rags of the past Swimming in a muddy pool of woe With their backs broken Their eyes gouged out They sit close to the horizon Hoping that the sun will rise with healing in its wings Their hope has not been permanently thwarted It still has tiny fragments of life Tiny as grains of salt but not as fine Cold winds sweep through their souls Their covenants with the unknown Forces of nature have been broken.

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Teachers en Vacances in Faraway Places Brunswick’s Faculty Summer Grant Program provides a broad range of intellectual opportunities and sustains our belief that learning is a lifelong adventure, both inside and beyond the classroom. Every fall, faculty members who participated in the summer program share their renewed inspiration with our boys.

Get your tickets ready as we take an armchair travel with some of our faculty who wrote more extensively about their summer trips. Not only did Ali Al-Maqtari, Upper School Arabic and French teacher, study and attend workshops at the Sorbonne in Paris, and the University of Texas/Austin, he was a master teacher of Arabic at the famed Rassias summer program at Dartmouth College, and led seven students on a cultural immersion trip to Morocco. Mikel Berrier, Upper School French teacher, took four of his students on a trip to Avignon and Paris.

Sit back, fasten your seat belt, and enjoy the ride.

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hen we fielded the question, “How did you spend your summer vacation?” we were overwhelmed by responses about the different summer grant programs in which faculty members participated.

Following are a few of their responses.

This past summer was the first in recent years (for obvious reasons!*) that I did not go to France.

Three years ago, Brunswick supported a weeklong seminar in Paris for teachers of French as a foreign language. Two years ago, I went from Paris to southern France, following in the footsteps of Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises, and the year before last my summer grant took me to Nice and Provence where I was able to, more than anything, bring back authentic fodder for classroom study and, albeit briefly, reconnect with both the French and Provençal way of life. Each of these experiences—driving through the countryside, meeting people, and taking many pictures—helped me to return to Brunswick with great anticipation for the upcoming year.

—B. Tucker Hastings Upper School French teacher and 11th Grade Dean * Burke Elizabeth Hastings was born on August 11, 2009.

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As a storyteller and librarian, it is my mission in life to be a lifelong learner of stories. This past summer, I was in Oxford, England—the home of writers J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis— and the place where the Harry Potter movies were made. I also lived in Paris, home of Charles Perrault who collected fairy tales. He is now a statue in Jardin des Tuileries. Finally, I went to London to see the Royal Theatre Company’s production of Peter Pan and the statue of Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens.

Upon returning home, I went with my husband on study-leave and took an acting course at Chautauqua Institute to improve my storytelling. It was an amazing summer for me.

—Joan Michie Lower School librarian The summer before last (2008) I was able to attend a high-level soccer coaching school given by the NSCAA. It was a weeklong “residence” course (meaning the coaches all stayed at Bloomsburg University in Pennsylvania). The knowledge gained and practical experience from this coaching school has helped our boys directly by helping me to be a better soccer coach.

—Chris Forester Middle School Math teacher and soccer coach

Learning Languages & Cultures via Travel: Our Trip to Morocco

By Ali Al-Maqtari, Upper School Arabic and French Teacher

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began learning English when I was in 7th grade. I was a student at a small school called Al-Tadamoun Middle School, in Sana’a, capital of Yemen. I lived there until I completed my bachelor’s degree, and then went to France to achieve my master’s in education.

In 7th grade, students were afraid to learn a new language because we all spoke Arabic and had never tried to learn another language. Unlike me, I had picked up English by listening to BBC Radio every night before I went to bed. Thus, when I officially started my first English class at Al-Tadamoun Middle School, I had a small knowledge of the language. Most importantly though, I did not have what other students had: “fear” of speaking a new language.

Foreign languages have always fascinated me. What added to this excitement was the opportunity to also learn new cultures.

This passion is largely credited to my great 7th grade teacher from Sudan, Oustath Said, for whom I give credit to my becoming a languages teacher.

Teaching for me is not a job in the drudgery sense: it is something I enjoy doing everyday, which is why I spent last summer (2009) teaching Arabic at Brunswick Summer School, Southern Connecticut State University, and Dartmouth College.

I also attended the 2009 Arabic professors’ workshop through the National Middle East Language Resource Center, along with Brigham University and the University of Texas, where the workshop was held.

My second professional development workshop last summer was at the University of Sorbonne in Paris. During this project, I met with the renowned Professor Hallaq, researched methodologies of teaching Arabic as a foreign language, and the difficulties that French-speaking students experience while studying Arabic, compared with English-speaking students.

During my stay in Paris, I also met with Professor Anam, a former professor of Arabic at the École Normale Supérieure, to

discuss creative techniques he uses, such as music to teach past and present verb tenses.

I ended the summer by taking my Brunswick and Greenwich Academy Arabic students on an unforgettable trip to Morocco. As part of the Modern Language study abroad program, we spent two weeks in Tétouan, a city in northern Morocco on the Mediterranean Sea, and a few miles south of the Strait of Gibraltar. We stayed in a beautiful hotel close to the school where students studied Arabic. In this bustling town, we attended cultural activities, such as a henna session, an Arabic calligraphy workshop, and a private performance of Arabic and Andalusian music by a teacher/singer of this music. We also visited Fez, the third largest city in Morocco after Casablanca and Rabat, and Meknes, one of the four Imperial Cities.

Since we began our Arabic language program at Brunswick in the fall of 2006, the Modern Language department has been working diligently to establish a solid study-abroad program for all languages in general, and for Arabic in particular. I am proud to say that we have one of the best Arabic programs for providing our boys with immersion experiences that help improve their language skills and continually open their eyes to new cultures. The boys are also able to learn many things that can never be taught in textbooks, such as colloquialisms and cultural nuances.

The summer of 2009 was one of enrichment and travel, which helped me build relationships with my students and learn more about how I, in turn, can help them learn. For this reason, I have begun planning a trip in August to Alexandria, Egypt, where many more discoveries await us. j

Winter 2010 | Times of Brunswick

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Brunswick’s First Summer Immersion Program in France Story & Photography by Mikel Berrier, Upper School French Teacher

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magine teaching someone how to swim, without having access to water or a pool. Or imagine learning to fly without ever stepping out of the flight simulator. Our students are fortunate that they can step out of Brunswick’s language classroom and go abroad (there are dozens of programs out there). But for the first time I, as a teacher, had the opportunity to design and create my own pool and open it up to Brunswick School and Greenwich Academy students.

The project—a three-week immersion program in Avignon and Paris—was the result of many working as a team at Brunswick. Fanning Hearon, Modern Language Department chair and Upper School Spanish teacher, promoted the idea that each modern language taught at Brunswick should offer its own abroad program. Our group was marvelously balanced with two freshmen (Jack Williams ’13 and Audrey Keller GA ’13), and two sophomores (John Brosens ’12 and Emma Phillips GA ’12).

These four courageous “pioneer” students were ready to jump in. Their parents, as well as Headmaster Tom Philip, supported the trip and made it possible. Julie Krauss, a teacher of French as a second language who lives in Avignon, was also helpful in organizing and coordinating the project.

And of course, there was the entire Brunswick staff (Kathleen Harrington, Donna Miller, Mike De Angelo, and more) that helped grant the wish. After all of the planning, I couldn’t wait to take the students on a cultural and linguistic adventure to France, my country of origin.

What did I have in mind for the trip? I wanted the students to learn as much as they could over a three-week period. That meant there would have to be plenty of opportunities to speak French, along with room for methodical study and structure consolidation. Teaching is very much an art of rhythm, and I knew I’d have to work out just the right balance between being together as a group and being “alone in the deep end,” studying and playing, discovering and reflecting.

Avignon

Avignon is a beautiful small town in Provence. In addition to the treasures it holds within its medieval walls (the people, the Papal palace, museums, lovely cobblestoned streets),

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Times of Brunswick | winter 2010

the region offers easy access to many sites of cultural and historical interest: the Pont du Gard, Nîmes, Arles, the abbey of Sénaque, the mountain of the Luberon, and Marseilles. By the end of our two-and-a-half weeks, I wanted the students to thoroughly know Avignon and to be able to say: “I’ve LIVED in the town.”

And what trip to France wouldn’t complete without four days in Paris?

Homestay

Each student experienced living with a French family.

Chatting during dinnertime, dealing with keys, reading notes on the kitchen table, and figuring out how to fit in would be an important part of our study abroad adventure.

Outings

Except for a few full-day outings and night events, most of our excursions took place in the morning. In order to make it easier to choose where to go, I decided on a theme: “Senses and History in and Around Avignon.” I made sure all senses were incorporated: Taste: anchovies, olive oil, cheese, garlic Smell: lavender, honey, basil, cypress trees Sound: Medieval and gypsy music, the special intonations of French that is spoken in the south Sight: the blue sky and that amazing light in Provence that inspired Vincent van Gogh and Paul Cézanne. I also made sure we saw sights that marked important eras in history—from a Roman aqueduct to a medieval palace and a modern mall.

Group Classes

After a morning outing (and ensuing lunch), the group would rendezvous for vocabulary clarification and structure reinforcement. The students had varying degrees of proficiency, so I brought along a box of books that covered all levels and skills. I also wanted time to be devoted to journal writing.

Private Tutoring

Each student received a daily one-hour, one-on-one conversational session with an individual tutor. The tutorials took place in various parts of the town, such as a nearby café, town square, or médiathèque (multimedia library).

Pétanque

This game, as bocce in Italian, is so synonymous with “le Sud” (south of France), that I wanted each of the students to give it a try. The idea of playing this was to get together after the one-on-one conversations before we went our separate ways again, this time to our host homes.

“Experimental Tourism”

gypsy, rap, and African music. We swam in the sea and in rivers.

We ate at restaurants, picnicked, and cooked.

We saw art, landscapes, monasteries, and monuments. We talked about what we saw, and did grammar exercises on the bus, on restaurant tablecloths, and on the run. We laughed, ate ice cream, and acted on a Roman stage. John and Emma added to their experience by doing sports with their French friends (Emma went horseback-riding with Morgane, and John played tennis with Sylvain).

My objective for this trip was to broaden minds, teach, and inspire. By immersing my students in the culture and by creating opportunities for them to interact with the people, Jack, John, Emma, and Audrey had a chance to embrace France, as well as express what they tasted, smelled, heard and saw … in French. j

Inspired by a group of creative and scientific-minded people based in Strasbourg, France, I incorporated as much “experimental tourism” as I could. We set off onto travel “experiments” whose parameters had been predetermined, followed by a written or oral report. This is a powerful tool for language teaching.

The students’ first experiment, for example, was to set off into Avignon, following an itinerary they had randomly ascribed to themselves by scribbling on a piece of tracing paper (which they then put over the town map).

During their “random/set walk” through town, they had to look for words starting with the letters A-V-I-G-N-O-N and get information on good, affordable restaurants.

The list of what we accomplished in Avignon and Paris is impressive: we took trains, buses, metros, boats, and walked (a lot). We heard

My objective for this trip was to broaden minds, teach, and inspire.

Winter 2010 | Times of Brunswick

15

with Bill Durkin ’72:

Q&A 16

Times of Brunswick | winter 2010

Seeing Brunswick From a Wide Perspective

By Bonni Brodnick

Bill Durkin ’72 brings both experience and experiences to his new post as Chairman of the Brunswick School Board of Trustees. From a span of 1969 to 2010, he has seen the Brunswick School through the eyes of a student, alumnus, parent, Trustee and now Chair. Times of Brunswick caught up with him at the Alumni Holiday Gathering at New York Yacht Club.

ToB: The Durkin/Brunswick connection spans three generations.

Can you tell us about that?

BILL : Brunswick School has played a big role in my family over the years, not only for me and my brothers (Patrick ’75, Tim ’75, Tom ’78, and Dan ’83), but for my parents, who were very involved with the School (my dad was Chairman of the Board of Trustees in the late ’70s); for my three sons (Will ’04, Ian ’06, and Alec ’13), and even for my daughter, Lizzie (GA ’10) through the Coordinate Program with Greenwich Academy.

ToB: Brunswick has experienced unprecedented expansion over the past 10 years. How has that benefited the boys?

BILL : We now have extraordinary facilities on all three campuses—Maher Avenue, Maple Avenue, and King Street—that serve to provide the very best possible academic, athletic, and artistic experiences. With these major building projects behind us, the Board will continue to focus on maintaining and further enhancing the many programs and opportunities available to our boys within these spectacular buildings. We will also continue to fully support our dedicated faculty who make Brunswick the excellent school it has come to be.

ToB: In many ways, the expansion of facilities has laid a foundation for the future.

BILL : Absolutely. While Brunswick is a different place than when I started 40 years ago, it is reassuring to know, and I say this from experience, that many of the truly important things have not changed. Our unique profile as a boys’ school, the

 Members of the 1972 Varsity Soccer team (Bill is kneeling front row, third from left)  Bill and his father, Bill Durkin Jr. (former parent, Trustee and Chairman of the Board of Trustees), at 2009 Homecoming Alumni Golf Outing

special relationship between faculty and students, our culture, and our core values of Courage, Honor, Truth—the real fabric of the School—thankfully, remain the same.

ToB: What’s next?

BILL : It’s no surprise that we have a full agenda. Brunswick is fortunate to have a Board of Trustees that is deep in talent and commitment. All of the members lead very busy lives—both professionally and through their many volunteer commitments.

I am grateful for the time that each of them devote to the many Board committees and assignments that range from managing our endowment, fundraising, finance and budget, long-range planning, diversity and program initiatives, to name of few. Of particular interest to me is reaching out and keeping our Alums involved with Brunswick. By doing so, they continue to appreciate the strength of friendships developed during their school years. Brunswick wants to serve as a catalyst to maintain these lifelong relationships. We value input from our Alums and look to them to support our School and help preserve the very special qualities of Brunswick that continue to endure well beyond graduation day, and from generation to generation. We look forward to seeing them at Homecoming, Thanksgiving Alumni Sports Day, the holiday gathering at the New York Yacht Club, Career Networking Night, and other alumni events.

ToB: They can also keep in touch with our Alumni Office. Drop us a line, send us a photo, tell us what they think of the School. In other words, share their news as we continue to share ours.

BILL : I’d also like to give our most sincere thanks to our parents, whose generosity is unequivocal and so appreciated by the Board, Headmaster Tom Philip, and his administration. Lastly, and no matter how involved the Board, parents, and Alums may be, it’s Tom Philip, his faculty and administration that make it all happen. They set the bar high, deliver for our boys day in and day out, and make us all proud to be associated with Brunswick School. j

Winter 2010 | Times of Brunswick

17

Y MNew

Friends

in Bali

By Jack Baker ’15

Even though I don’t speak Indonesian and my friend, Yanto, doesn’t speak English, there was no gap when it came to having fun.

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Times of Brunswick | winter 2010 2009

(left to right): Jener, Yogi, Adolfus and Lisa will come to the U.S. to celebrate my bar mitzvah.

Watching an elephant show at the Animal Safari Park.

C

ourage, Honor, Truth. These are the principles for which Brunswick School and its students are supposed to stand. But what exactly does that mean? I am in 7th grade and have been at Brunswick for nine years. Even though we talk about these important words in our school motto, it wasn’t until this past summer that I fully appreciated what they meant.

A friend of our family, Glen Arthur, lives on a small island in Indonesia called Bali. As a fashion designer, he spends half of the year there designing and manufacturing clothing. During a visit with us in Connecticut, he spoke about the children at the Jodie O’Shea Orphanage. Most of them either have no parents, or their parents live on the island of Sumba and are unable to afford to feed and educate their children. As Glen told us these stories, we enjoyed dinner in our own home that was filled with all of the conveniences and toys only the luckiest families in the world have.

I am having my bar mitzvah in March. As part of this rite of passage, I have chosen to do a mitzvah project, which is something that benefits someone else or creates something good in the world. Rather than give me bar mitzvah presents, I am asking my friends and family to contribute to the Jodie O’Shea Orphanage.

After a lot of thought, I asked my parents if I could go to Bali to meet the children at the orphanage. If I could visit where they live, I would be better able to see how I might help them, and also let my family and friends know how specifically they might help these children who have so little.

On June 4, 2009, after the end of school, my father, mother, brother Henry and sister Serena, and I flew to Asia.

After several stops, we finally landed in Bali where 40 children from the orphanage met us. Over three days, we took them to an amusement park and zoo. We also went swimming at a local pool, flew kites, and played soccer.

Many things surprised me about the children and the orphanage. The first was that the children were all so happy. I wondered how this could be when they were without their parents, lived with eight other children in a room, had one pair of sneakers and one change of clothing, one TV for everybody, few toys, and no air conditioning. Yet they were all smiles, singing, playing, and taking care of each other. They were happy with what they had, not unhappy with what they didn’t have.

Four of my new Balinese friends (Yogi, Lisa, Jener and Adolfus) are coming to the United States in the spring to celebrate my bar mitzvah. This will be their first time out of Indonesia. I am working with Glen and the other children to make a wish list of things they need at the orphanage: new bathroom doors, computers, printers, books, clothes, shoes, and money to help pay for education.

It makes me proud to have given honor to my family, the children, my school, and my community. The children have given me insight into their lives and the truth of why we should be happy with all we have, not unhappy with all we don’t have.

It is important in life to help others. Doing so for my new friends in Bali who live at the Jodie O’Shea Orphanage has been an incredibly rewarding experience. j

(left to right) Putu, Jack Baker and Erikson at the orphan ’15 age.

Winter 2010 | Times of Brunswick

19

In this issue of Times of Brunswick, we are launching a new section called “A Look Back.”

We welcome your submissions of fond remembrances of your days at ’Wick.

–The Editor Please send your stories to Bonni Brodnick, Brunswick News Room bbrodnick@brunswickschool.org or call 203.625.5864.

Classroom Antics in the 1940s

By David S. Thomson ’43

coined by my “This is all pretty juvenile stuff, I’m sure—or “junevile” to use a wonderful word silly things ble classmate, Bobby Edwards ’41. I’m sure fractious kids at Brunswick do compara today, but maybe somebody will get a laugh out of these fond remembrances.” –DST the list of t was a Friday morning and, as usual, Mr. Mansur, our French teacher, was reading g at beginnin , Saturday , miscreants condemned to serve time in “detention” the next morning 8:15. About the third item on his list was “Alexander Edwards—30 minutes.” and rose from Sandy, the rock-solid star lineman of the football team, stuck up his hand his desk, all 6-foot-plus and 210 pounds of him.

“Yes, Alexander?” asked Mr. Mansur.

“I can’t come tomorrow, sir,” answered Sandy.

“And why not?”

“I have to take my violin lesson.”

wild guffaws, a panMr. Mansur did not crack a smile—he never did—but all of us broke into

y of the hulking lineman demonium of laughter at the impudence of Sandy’s answer, and the absurdit Mr. Mansur, still not having even touching a violin, let alone playing it. When we finally quieted down, smiled, returned to his list. “Alexander Edwards, one hour and 30 minutes.”

His deadpan was so perfect that we howled all over again.

I

of kid whose sport hen there was the time Scotty Leavitt blew himself up. He was the kind es, matches, and for jacket pockets bulged with stuff—yo-yos, cap pistols, contraband cigarett all I know, frogs and toads. And, it turned out … firecrackers. to his desk, began One day Scotty had evidently had enough of the clutter and, standing next

wall radiators that heated to unload his pockets, placing some of his gear on top of one of the large . Evidently, the heat red-hot almost was radiator the study hall. It was a cold winter day and the or so strung together 20 of package entire an ignited a matchbook, and this in turn lit the fuse to still in his pocket, were rest the but one-inchers. Some of the firecrackers were hanging in the air, of gray-black powcloud large A where they proceeded to detonate rat-a-tat-tat, bangetty-bang-bang! invisible became he that der smoke erupted from the pocket, and enveloped Scotty so effectively except for a flailing arm or two. der permeated Soon the powder smoke drifted over the nearby desks and the smell of gunpow

study hall. As the smoke the room. It had been, without doubt, the noisiest moment in the history of shock. in abruptly cleared, Scotty stood there red-faced, then sat down our seats with laughter. It The rest of us gasped in awe at the detonations, and then nearly fell out of

n. j detentio any for nailed was all so astounding and dramatic that I’m not sure Scotty was

T

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Times of Brunswick | WINTER winter 2010

Brunswick ’45

By Edward Trenkmann ’45

D

o our thoughts remember past of the times that will not last?

Please give me one more shot—have no fear

at Mr. Clark and Latin, dear.

Or Mr. Southworth, the history man,

he taught me then to be a fan.

Can Mr. Bogart teach me Spanish now,

or will the time not allow?

Mr. Ken of figures fame

is it still just a game?

Coach King and son Ned come to mind,

wouldn’t that be a find.

Gordon B., Louie S., Hugh D., and all the rest

they were all there at their best.

Let us not forget a soul

bring near Woody W., Bobby., Pete M., Bruce S.,

—they all did play a role.

Probably missed a few,

could someone give me but a clue?

Ah, Ed T. with his “B”

proudly worn, for all to see.

Bob G. and Bill E., we still have sought

and regret what time has wrought.

Has Philip Y. found the idol yet?

A life of searching he did set.

Now we see Gordon B. of hockey fame,

he and Neil B. ran a winning game.

Then it ended with a note

and that was all that history wrote.

Forward then into life so real,

the ups and downs we all did feel.

May all the egregious times be gone

and only left a happy song.

More has past than lies ahead

the book of life we have fed.

Could the Gods of fate decree a feat

and certain times let us repeat?

My Brunswick days would be one choice

in this I would but now rejoice.

We thank you all for days of yore.

Oh, how I wish that there were more.

We are, I know, a chosen few,

but still we all must say Adieu.

Ed Trenkmann ’45 is the student standing on the window ledge casting a shadow on the wall.

(Headmaster Alfred Everett is likely on the other side writing up a pink slip.)

Ode to Brunswick ail to thee our dear old Brunswick, Loud and strong thy name we praise. rage, Honor, Truth prevail.

As we go from out thy portals, let Cou us ever more to thee, May the spirit thou has brought us, bind Hail to thee our dear old Brunswick, Loud and strong thy name we praise.

—Edward Trenkmann ’45

Written in 2008

H

the Alumni Office (Note: Ed sang his ode and submitted to audio email attachment.)

as an

(Note: As an everlasting gift to Brunswick, Ed burnished his poem on a plaque that now hangs in the Development Office.)

Winter 2010 | Times of Brunswick WINTER

21

’w ck Author/Illustrator Patricia Polacco Makes a Thunderous Visit to Lower School When renowned author/illustrator Patricia Polacco walked through the glass door of the Lower School Library, students, faculty, and staff alike were in for a treat. Mesmerized by words of wisdom, this prolific writer of 77 books—including such classics as Chicken Sunday, When Lightning Comes in a Jar, Thunder Cake, Babushka’s Doll, and Meteor!—spoke of storytelling and sharing family lore.

“My grandmother was the penultimate storyteller,” said Ms. Polacco. “Every night she told us stories. We couldn’t afford a television, so she did what she called, ‘Fire-Talking’ every night. She’d light a fire, pop popcorn, and if my brother and I were lucky, make fudge. In her thick Ukrainian accent, she would

What's your story?

We'd love to hear.

Please send your stories to Bonni Brodnick bbrodnick@brunswickschool.org or call the Brunswick News Room at 203.625.5864.

say, ‘Go in living room, because now I’m going to come in and fire-talk you!’ We’d go in and she would explode into story. There was something wonderful about learning how things were and how loved we were.”

When asked by a Brunswick School 4th grader how Ms. Polacco gets her inspiration, she responded, “Children and adults ask me that all the time.

Where do I get my ideas? I get them from the same place that you do … MY IMAGINATION! I would guess the reason my imagination is so fertile is because I came from storytelling and, WE DID NOT OWN A TV!! You see, when one is a writer, actor, dancer, musician, or a creator of any kind, he or she does these things because they listen to that ‘voice’ inside of them. All of us have that ‘voice.’

It is where all inspired thoughts come.

But when you have electronic screens in front of you—speaking that voice for

you—it drowns out the voice! When I talk to children and aspiring writers, I always ask them to listen to the voice: turn off the TV, and LISTEN, LISTEN, LISTEN.”

Echoing the Brunswick motto of Courage, Honor, Truth, Ms. Polacco also reminded the boys that change comes from honoring your friends, one by one.

“In your journey, remember your grace and your might, and what you will do to change this earth. You need stout hearts to do this, and it is the gift of your heart that guides you. I will end my talk this afternoon with this message: Lead with your hearts. Lead with your hearts.

Always, always lead with your hearts.” j

The Gonzalez-Bunster Family Trek to Success “Launching the Walkabout Foundation in honor of Luis is something I’ve wanted to do since his car accident in the summer of 1994,” said Carolina Gonzalez-Bunster (GA ’01) of her brother, who graduated from Brunswick School that same spring.

While spinal cord injury paralyzed Luis Gonzalez-Bunster ’94 from the waist down, he is living proof that leading a full life in a wheelchair is indeed possible.

Luis continues to conquer the world by participating in marathons; swimming up to 140 laps a day, and even sky diving.

Last August, Carolina launched The Walkabout by hiking a grueling and

22

Times of Brunswick | winter 2010

symbolic journey along the historical pilgrims’ route from the south of France to Santiago de Compostela, a city in the northwest of Spain. The 31-day/500-mile trek brought her through mountains, rocks, creeks, pastures, and cornstalks.

Joining at various points during the trip were her parents, Monica and Rolando, along with brothers, Diego ’09 and Matias ’12. And not one to miss a challenge, Luis accompanied Carolina on the final two weeks on his hand-cycle called the “Freedom Ryder.”

Carolina plans to organize abbreviated walks in different countries each

year. The foundation’s logo, which includes seven footsteps, represents the seven continents of the world, and highlights the international objective of her campaign.

“Today, scientists are closer than ever to finding a cure for paralysis,” Carolina said. “In the United States, United Kingdom, Israel, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland doctors are working hard to find ways to re-establish nerve function for those with spinal cord injuries.

With stem cells especially, we are so close to finding a cure. However, we need to spread the word and educate people.

’ wick S nippets

David Ho, AIDS Pioneer & 1996 TIME Magazine “Man of the Year” is Guest Speaker at Brunswick The legendary David Ho, AIDS researcher/pioneer, and 1996 Time magazine “Man of the Year,” was a guest speaker at Brunswick School to discuss “The AIDS Epidemic and Prospects for Control.”

Dr. Ho has been at the forefront of AIDS research for 26 years. He has published over 350 papers, enabling the scientific community to better understand the mechanism of HIV. While his discovery of the “AIDS Cocktail” has resulted in an enormous decrease in AIDS deaths, he emphasized the need to find a cure to this pandemic that is the worst plague in human history.

“By use of the AIDS Cocktail therapy, the virus can be held down for several years,” Dr. Ho said. He cited L.A. Laker star Magic Johnson, who has been combating AIDS for 15 years and is doing well. “Although there is a decline in AIDS mortality in the U.S.

with the use of combination antiretroviral therapy, we can never treat our way out of this enormous epidemic. I don’t expect the disease to be cured, or uniformly prevented, in my lifetime, and perhaps not even in the lifetime of any of the students in this room. What this emphasizes is the importance of awareness, education, and protection.”

Dr. Ho and his work in HIV/AIDS has been a strong influence on Peter Chu, a Brunswick School senior.

“I became interested in the topic of HIV/AIDS last spring,” Peter said.

“Dr. Ho is a family friend and during a conversation he told me about his past and current research efforts. I became entranced when I realized that it was directly because of Dr. Ho’s work that so many lives have been saved. I became determined to try and help save more.”

Peter has started “ADARC (Aaron Diamond’s AIDS Research Center) Aid,”

Peter Chu ’10, founder of the extracurricular club ADARC Aid, and Dr. David Ho, legendary AIDS researcher and pioneer.

an extracurricular club whose objective is to raise money throughout the school year and donate it to the research center, of which Dr. Ho is the CEO and lead doctor.

“I look forward to working with the Red Ribbon Foundation, a youth council in Greenwich that funds HIV/AIDSrelated charities, locally, nationally, and internationally,” Peter continued. “I will also encourage members of our school club to join the foundation and learn more about what they can do to help in the fight against HIV/AIDS.” j

Sponsoring annual walks is a perfect opportunity to do just that.”

“Seeing my brother, Luis, cross the entire country of Spain last summer with just his two arms made me realize that anything in life is possible if you set your mind to it,” said Matias, a sophomore at Brunswick. “Helping my family launch the Walkabout Foundation was one of the most unbelievable experiences of my life.” j To learn more about the Walkabout Foundation, please go to thewalkaboutfoundation.org.

Luis Gonzalez-Bunster ’94 gives the thumbs-up during a 500-mile trek to launch the Walkabout Foundation.

(Top inset): Carolina Gonzalez-Bunster (GA ’01), sister and greatest fan, hugs her brother.

Winter 2010 | Times of Brunswick

23

’ wick S nippets

 Holding a chicken at my grandmother’s cocoa farm and sugar cane plantation in Kwahu-Tafo.

Akwabaa* to My Adventure in Ghana

By Koby Ofori ’19 Last summer, my sister Lindsay and I went to the West African country of Ghana to meet our extended family. The flight took us from JFK to Frankfurt, Germany; to Lagos, Nigeria; to Accra, the capital of Ghana. The country is broken up into 10 regions: from game reserves in the arid north, to thick forests in the central region, and savannah plains and coastal regions in the south.

I was very excited when we touched down at Kotoka International airport in the capital city of Accra. My dad and 6 of his brothers and sisters together with their

children met us at the airport. At my grandma’s at her cocoa farm in KwahuTafo, I held a chicken. My sister and I planted mango trees in the garden, and tasted cocoa.

In the city of Elmina, we visited Elmina Slave Castle, where slaves were once traded and shipped. President Obama had visited this World Heritage site when he was in Ghana last summer.

The castle, an old Portuguese church with dungeons, has canons in front.

We hiked in Kakum National Park; visited Kumasi, the capital of the Ashanti

people; and heard the legend of Okomfo Anokye and his mystical sword. This region is where most of the gold exported comes from. The country was previously called “Gold Coast,” but was renamed “Ghana” after independence in 1957.

The trip was fun and I enjoyed seeing all of my relatives. I was glad to come home to Stamford, Conn., so that I could get ready to start third grade at Brunswick in the fall. j Additional contribution by Lindsay Ofori, CSH ’17

* Akwaaba means “welcome” in Twee language, the most widespread indigenous language of Ghana.

24

Times of Brunswick | winter 2010

’ wick S nippets

1

2

3

1. This is a statue of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, the first president of Ghana.

2. Elmina Slave Castle in Cape Coast, Ghana.

3. On a boat ride on Volta Lake with my sister, Lindsay (CSH ’17).

4. Billboard welcoming President Barack Obama to Ghana.

4

Winter 2010 | Times of Brunswick

25

BRUNSWICK

All photos by Dan Burns (except where otherwise noted)

Photo: Matt Savitt ’12

BRUINS

Compiled By Diana Samponaro

FOOTBALL

By Eric Tillman

This fall, Jarrett Shine ’92 began his inaugural season as head coach for the Brunswick Bruins with a talented squad of young men looking to surpass last year’s record. Coach Shine, who replaced the talented Sean Brennan and was a star on Coach Bob Sampson’s legendary Brunswick teams, taught for several years in the Middle School and Upper School divisions. Coach Shine was also a valuable member of the coaching staff for Pete Kashatus and Sean Brennan. He has returned to Brunswick as the varsity head coach after several successful years in the corporate world.

Rounding out the coaching staff are Steve Garnett, Marcus Chioffi, Mike Hannigan ’01, Mike Harris, and Steve Vasaka ’99 and each has contributed his unique abilities in the “building” of this year’s team. Captains Jimmy Craft ’10, Brett Moscati ’10, and Phil Pierce ’10 knew that much would be expected of them. Pre-season injuries for several key players may have contributed to the early loss to Hackley, and a challenging schedule definitely kept every player on his toes. Practices were difficult and the weather was completely uncooperative for most of our games, but there were great moments and memorable wins throughout the season. A lopsided victory over KingswoodOxford improved the team’s confidence. Offensively Jimmy Craft had a breakout day finding four different receivers for five touchdowns. Phil Pierce and Bret Moscati were both solid at receiver, and Nick Baccile impressed everyone with his hustle and performance. Coach Shine described the next game against the King School as “a showdown for the ages.” Brunswick lost, 27–20, but only after King scored a touchdown with 39 seconds left in the game. Other season highlights include playing tough with Kent School for the first 3 quarters and defeating Rye Country Day on their homecoming with a great defensive effort led by junior Sammy MacFarlane. The Brunswick Homecoming defeat of St. Luke’s, 27–6, was a brilliant game despite the rain. Against a very tough Salisbury team, Jimmy Craft threw for a season-high 446 yards in a total team effort that saw Brunswick come within 7 points of winning. In the November 11 game against a worthy Hopkins team, the defense shut down the Hopkins offense in the second half with key interceptions by Brian MacFarlane and Leo Russell. Offensively, Joe Beninati scored both of our touchdowns after battling the flu that week, and a 14–13 victory was cause for celebration. We ended the season with another exciting game against Trinity-Pawling. Trailing 42–7 at the half, the boys rallied again to keep Brunswick in the game. The comeback Bruins came within a touchdown before being overpowered. Our kicking game, led by Alex Marcus and Billy Murphy, remained solid all year long. With the entrance into the Ericsson league in 2010–2011, upcoming Captains Sammy Macfarlane, Ernie Rosato and Alex Marcus anticipate another challenging and exciting football season.

CROSS COUNTRY

By Coach Steve Polikoff

Brunswick’s XC team’s commitment to summer miles would render the 2009 season an unprecedented success regardless of how the campaign unfolded.

Besides placing second to Greens Farms Academy in the regular season and in the postseason league tournament, we won all other dual meets, including a fourth consecutive victory over Trinity-Pawling, going undefeated against Hopkins for the first time, and a best-ever 4th place finish at Canterbury Invitational en route to a record of 17 wins against 3 defeats for the second consecutive year. It was also source of pride that the process of assembling the best Brunswick team ever was completed with homegrown talent and familiar faces from 2008. As the remains of Hurricane Ida swept through the region on a November Saturday, those Bruins who toed the muddy line for New England possessed a shared allegiance to run hard. Among several unique events of the day: a trio wearing ’Wick colors would garner All New England recognition. Ryan Hagerbrant led the effort as he took 2nd place overall, with teammates Andrew Grasso in 7th place and Captain Brian DeAngelo in 11th place. The combination of Will Peisch in 24th and Sam Waters in 37th secured a total of 81 points and a first place tie with Suffield (3rd, 10th, 13th, 25th, 30th). While a rarity even in a dual meet, none present had ever experienced this outcome at a competition of such measure. A peek inside the surprising result magnified the closeness of the race and the significance of each runner’s effort over the final meters, revealing that the combined time of our top-five harriers was only four seconds faster than (eventual 2nd place) Suffield, and six seconds ahead of (eventual 3rd place) Milton. Since the contest was scored by position rather than time, it would therefore have to wait for our 6th runner Peter Geithner’s 50th place finish to break the tie in our favor. Jake Matthews closed out the lineup, which would win the Division II New England Championships for the first time, but victory was so unexpected that it would be nearly one hour after he crossed the line before we fully realized what had been accomplished. The well-worn pre-season mantra “You can run, but you can’t hide” had proved prophetic. As we anticipate the leadership of next year’s Captains, Hagerbrant, Grasso and Waters, we will not be surprised if they can continue the tradition of building on the burgeoning legacy of their predecessors.

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BRUINS BRUNSWICK

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Water Polo

By Coach Eric Tillman

On September 9, 2009, Brunswick’s newest sport began practice.

As 12 hearty souls jumped in the water at the Greenwich Family YMCA for their first swim set, the Brunswick Water Polo Club was born. Led by senior Harrison Oztemel, and juniors Ben Prout and Nick Ruppel, Brunswick Water Polo swam to an overall record of 11 wins and 2 losses. We suffered a season-opening loss to Hopkins, after three days of practice, but then we ran off 6 wins until we lost to Hotchkiss in late October. We did not lose again and concluded the season with wins against the varsity squads from Canterbury, Wilbraham & Monson, and Hopkins to win the Hopkins Invitational Tournament.

Ben Prout was the tournament high scorer, and Sander Profaci attracted the attention of many for his superb goal tending. To round out the roster of boys who took the risk of trying a new, and very demanding, sport was junior Matt Weill, and freshmen Pete D’Agostino, Holden Fett, Connor Kupersmith, Sander Profaci, Pete Rogan, Eric Ronda, and Ian Ronda. Pete Kazases began the season with us but was forced into retirement by allergies. We coaches—Bill Smith, Ulmis Iordache, and Eric Tillman—could not have been more pleased with the way the season went or how hard the boys worked.

SOCCER

By Coach Tucker Hastings While a record of 1–11–2 is ultimately disappointing, the positivity of the 2009 varsity soccer season came from the inherent value that the players found in the competition of each individual match (and by the fact that each match was indeed competitive). It came, too, from a team-first mentality exhibited by seniors Chris Baldock, Tyler Marks, Zach Lynch, and Adrian Sheppe and, especially, Co-Captains Ben Weisburger and Ross Collins.

Season highlights were, of course, the victory in October against Gunnery (5–0), a game in which four different scorers found the back of the net. While this game was not the turning point for which the team was hoping, one-goal losses against Trinity-Pawling and Hopkins seemed to indicate that sound soccer was being played. A 1–1 tie at Salisbury was preserved in the final seconds by a tremendous Tyler Marks save. The final week of the season showed no letdown as defending New England champion Hotchkiss, (who would go on to win the 2009 championship as well) needed all 90 minutes to win a 1–0 game, scoring only in the last five minutes. A 0–0 draw on the last day of the season at Westminster reinforced the idea that this year’s team had greatly improved and could defend as well as anyone. Vexing, of course, was the inability to score that first goal.

The 2009 campaign saw standout play from this year’s captains—from Ben Weisburger in the air and in the middle of the field, Ross Collins as a steady defender in the back, as well as from Daniel Taylor, an offensive threat who was recognized by each opposing coach as one of the league’s top players. It was a rare moment that sophomores Patrick Figgie and Cooper Briggs were not on the field and their play, along with the likes of 12 other sophomores and juniors, bodes very well for next year.

The Western New England Prep School Soccer Association (WNEPSSA) awarded Brunswick School the Class-A Sportsmanship Award at their end-of-year meeting. This is a tremendous honor for our School and for an outstanding team so ably co-coached by Power Fraser ’74.

Captains Michael Errichetti, Jared Nowell, and Daniel Taylor will lead the team in 2010.

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CROSS COUNTRY New England Division II Champions............................Brunswick School All New England............................................................Brian DeAngelo, Andrew Grasso,

Ryan Hagerbrant FAA 2nd Place All-League Selections..............................Brian DeAngelo, Andrew Grasso,

Ryan Hagerbrant Honorable Mention.......................................................Will Peisch, Sam Waters MVP Winner.................................................................Ryan Hagerbrant Most Improved..............................................................Will Peisch Sportsmanship Award.....................................................Brian DeAngelo Rookies of the Year Award..............................................Jonny Mills, Tommy Polak Senior Citizen Award.....................................................Jason John, Charlie Southwick Coaches’ Award..............................................................Henry Dornier, Paul Dornier SOCCER WNEPSSA 2009 Sportsmanship Award–Class A...........Brunswick School WNEPSSA Select Team.................................................Daniel Taylor,

Ben Weisburger (Honorable Mention) CSCA All State Team.....................................................Daniel Taylor James Brown Award.......................................................Ben Weisburger Coaches’ Awards.............................................................Chris Baldock, Ross Collins, Daniel Taylor Three Year Varsity Lettermen..........................................Tyler Marks, Ben Weisburger

Photo: Matt Savitt ’12

FOOTBALL All New England............................................................Jimmy Craft All-League......................................................................Jimmy Craft, Peter Kiernan Brett Moscati,

Philip Pierce Honorable Mention.......................................................Alex Marcus, Ernie Rosato, Cliff Simmons Pedersen Award..............................................................Philip Pierce Joe Reimer Award...........................................................Alex Marcus Offensive MVP..............................................................Jimmy Craft Bruin of the Year............................................................Dylan Troy Lineman of the Year.......................................................Peter Kiernan Most Improved Senior....................................................Cliff Simmons Rookie of the Year..........................................................Joe Beninati

Photo: Matt Savitt ’12

BRUINS BRUNSWICK

Fall 2009 FAA ALL-LEAGUE & SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARDS

Classroom beyond

the

BY BONNI BRODNICK

The Blue Notes Groove in New Orleans Last summer, Paul Raaen, Upper School music teacher, conducted the Brunswick School Blue Notes as they performed jazz under a 350-year-old live oak tree at the historic Oak Alley Plantation, located on the Mississippi River, just outside of New Orleans. The group also played finger zingin’ renditions of “Blues in the Night,” “Groovin’ Hard,” “Birdland” and “Fiesta Latina” at the Musicians Village Project in the Upper Ninth Ward of New Orleans and at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts. j

Jacques Bouffier Recognized by the French Ministry of National Education

Photo: Mike Buddy

Jacques Bouffier, former Upper School French teacher and chair of the Foreign Language Department, with a 38-year tenure, and who retired in 2007, is back in his home city of Paris where he was awarded the prestigious Ordre des Palmes Académiques (Order of Academic Palms). Originally created by Napoleon to honor eminent members of the University of Paris, the Order is one of the world’s oldest civil awards. Monsieur Bouffier was inducted as a “Chevalier” (Knight) for his distinguished contribution to the expansion of French language and culture beyond France. The medallion, which hangs from a violet ribbon, is worn on the left lapel on formal occasions.

“It is a great honor to be recognized for my lifelong work as a teacher,” wrote Monsieur from Paris. “Whoever knew me during my own high school years in France would have thought to find me upon the gallows rather than in the Order of Academic Palms. This recognition is a testimony to the American system of education, which gave me a second chance to start again my schooling, proving that there is more than one way to learn and to be learned, and, as the French saying goes, ‘il n’est jamais trop tard pour bien faire’ (it’s never too late to do well...). I wish Norman Pedersen, my first Brunswick School Headmaster, would have been standing next to me when I received the decoration. He was the first who believed that my life was in education, and he guided me throughout my formative years.” j

Gus Ruchman ’10 Wins “Future Global Leader Award” Brunswick is proud to announce Gus Ruchman ’10 as the winner of this year’s World Affairs Forum’s “Future Global Leader Award for Fairfield County” and the $10,000 Merit Scholarship for college, sponsored by Pitney Bowes and IBM.

The World Affairs Forum, part of a national network of 90 councils across the country, has a shared mission: to educate members, students, and the public about global affairs and America’s role in the world. The forum was established in 1946 to promote understanding of foreign policy issues by providing dialogue between its members and leaders in the field of international relations.

Gus competed with nominees from 39 other schools in Fairfield County. His winning essay was a letter to President Barack Obama about a crucial issue of today.

“I chose to address the intricacies of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by using my own experiences at Seeds of Peace to urge a human approach to peace negotiations,” Gus said. Seeds of Peace is an organization dedicated to empowering young leaders from regions of conflict with the leadership skills required to advance reconciliation and coexistence.

“John Booth (history department chair and Upper School history teacher) has encouraged my interest in world affairs and has provided tremendous support,” he continued.

When asked what Gus looks forward to doing post-Brunswick graduation, the Future Global Leader responded, “I hope to continue studying foreign languages and international affairs, particularly as related to issues of science and global health.” j

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B eyond the C lassroom

There’s Something New About Michael Allwood: MA = nMB

Nice to Meet (& Greet) You! Last June, more than 300 guests—mostly new and host families to Brunswick— attended “Meet & Greet,” a barbecue on Edwards Campus sponsored by Brunswick Parents’ Association and the Diversity Committee. Upper Schoolers played hoops in the basketball courts, Middle Schoolers played sports in the “turf” ice rink, and Lower Schoolers played on the squash courts and the green.

“This fun gathering after the finish of the school year is a terrific way for new families to get to know the Brunswick community,” said Marianne Barnum, Diversity Coordinator.

Be sure to mark your calendar for this year’s BPA “Meet & Greet” on June 10. j

Michael Allwood, chair of Brunswick School Mathematics Department and Upper School math teacher, would likely see the above title as a mathematical equation. The answer is: Michael Allwood = new Math Book.

Multiple Choice & Free Response Questions in Preparation for the AP Statistics Examination (D&S Marketing Systems, Inc., 2009), co-written with Bonnie Montgomery, gives students top tips for acing the Advanced Placement Statistics Exam. In addition, there are five sample exams of multiple- and freechoice questions that students can use to simulate taking the actual test.

Everything in statistics is logical. To help increase scores, the book also suggests using your test time wisely, answering in the context of the questions, and showing your work. Anything else?

“Get a good night’s sleep,” Mr. Allwood added to the list.

It, indeed, has been found that that supine skew-ness will lend itself well to calculating z-scores and the probability increase of values and positive statistics. j

Brunswick The United Way In December, more than 96 members of the Brunswick School faculty and staff participated in a schoolwide drive to benefit Greenwich United Way.

“It was our honor to give a check for $16,830,” said John Booth, all-school coordinator, chair of Brunswick History Department, our upper School history chair and history teacher. He also acknowledged Bonnie Cassone, in the Brunswick business office for her assistance with accounting, as well as division captains Beth Eno (Pre School and Kindergarten), Kathy Thorpe (Lower School), and Jim Canning (Middle School). Mr. Booth was division captain at the Upper School.

Stuart D. Adelberg, president and CEO of Greenwich United Way (far left in photo above), came to the Upper School to personally thank all those who helped organize and contribute to the seasonal drive. “We truly appreciate Brunswick’s generosity and support.” j

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B eyond the C lassroom

What are the chances? One in 35,000 Under the tutelage and mentorship of Andrew Hall, chair of Visual and Performing Arts and Upper School art teacher, Brunswick Advanced Placement (AP) art student Sarah Canning (GA ’10) submitted “Taxis,” a silk painting, to the AP Art College Board for consideration in their annual traveling exhibit. Each of the 35,000 portfolios submitted included 24 pieces, which means the review committee saw 84,000 best of the best-ofthe-best AP work from young artists around the country. Of the 840,000, only 30 pieces were chosen … and one of them was by Canning. The prestigious recognition is an accolade, too, to the excellent coordinate arts program Brunswick has with Greenwich Academy.

“It is an incredible tribute to Sarah’s talent that she was selected out of 35,000 entrants,” said Hall. “The exhibit was intended to demonstrate not only the rigor and the highest quality of AP art, but also the wide range of ways in which art can be exemplary.”

The AP exhibit traveled to schools and conferences in Baltimore, Chicago, Dallas, and San Antonio. A slide show that included Canning’s work was also presented at the College Board National Forum in New York City. j

Brunswick Gets Greener By the Semester In the fall, in a reverse twist to autumn, Brunswick got greener. In a continued effort to be thoughtful to our environment, numerous new initiatives were launched this school year.

Times of Brunswick is now printed on 100% recycled paper that is certified by Forest Stewardship Council standards. Environmental savings for the 2009 summer issue, for example, were: • 50 trees preserved for the future • 20,993 gallons of wastewater flow saved • Wind-generated electricity savings equivalent to not driving 2,298 miles or planting 158 trees.

Taking the “Path to Awakening” The 6th grade Middle Schoolers were enlightened on a field trip to Chuang Yen Monastery in Carmel, N.Y. This education center is dedicated to presenting and explaining the different schools of Buddhism and the core beliefs uniting them.

Standing on the Bodhi Path (or the “Path to Awakening”) are (left to right) Will Blumberg, Gaden James, Jack Haroche, and Harry Stone. In the background is “The Great Buddha Hall,” a design similar to the architectural style of the Tang Dynasty (618–907 A.D.).

• 142 lbs. waterborne waste not created • 35,004,308 BTUs energy not consumed.

To save water, Brunswick Upper School dining hall has forgone the use of plastic serving trays. To lessen exposure to BPA (bisphenol A) chemicals often found in everyday plastics, such as cups and storage containers, we have also switched to BPA-free plastics in the Lower, Middle and Upper Schools.

If you look in the School’s dining rooms, you’ll find fresh-from-the-local-farm displays of fruits and vegetables, which are prepared and served for lunches the next day.

“We could list all the reasons why we should support local family farms—especially in this sustainable climate—but one of the simple facts is that local produce tastes better,” said Billy LeVasseur, Brunswick School executive chef. “Most of the fruits and vegetables we serve are flavorful varieties that also help preserve the genetic pool of the local food shed.”

“In the long run, it’s not technologies like solar panels or hydrogen fuel cells that will make a difference—though they will certainly help—but the small choices we each make every day,” said Guy Pratt, Brunswick Upper School Life Science teacher and Sustainability Coordinator. “Using less water and electricity to wash trays, reduced food waste from having one plate, BPA-free cups, turning off lights, turning off our engines while waiting for pickups, and reducing what we use are some of the small things we can all do to ensure our children have a chance to see polar bears and snorkel a coral reef.” j

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Brunswick Alumni

A lu m n i H oliday G ig at New Yo r k Yac ht Clu b While the crowds were five blocks north watching the Rockefeller Center tree lighting, more than 50 alumni reveled at a holiday reception in early December with Headmaster Tom Philip and Board Chair Bill Durkin ’72 at the New York Yacht Club.

Many thanks to Ed Keller ’82 for hosting the event, which brought together alumni from 1962 to 2005. We hope to make this holiday gathering an annual Brunswick tradition.

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BRUNSWICK ALUMNI

Co n n e c ti n g at the A n n ual Ca r ee r Netwo r k i n g F o ru m The 6th Annual Career Networking Forum for Brunswick and Greenwich Academy grads was hosted by Pam Pagnani (GA ’76) at the law firm of Dewey & LeBoeuf in New York City. Speakers included Michael Castine (GA P’07, BWK P’09, ’11) from Korn Ferry, Andrea de Cholnoky (GA ’74) from Korn Ferry, and Lisa Rader Edwards (GA ’79) from ERE Search, LLC. 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.

BRUNSWICK ALUMNI

T he 2 009 A n n ual T ha n k sgi v i n g S k ate & S quash Alumni created a stir with lots of huzzah at the 2009 annual Thanksgiving Skate & Squash in Sampson Field House. This school year brought out a record number for competitive post-Thanksgiving-feast exercise on Hartong Hockey Rink and Stephens Squash Courts.

On the rink, 35+ hockey players faced off in a frisky competition of “Odds vs. Evens.� On the squash courts, Varsity A & B squads challenged returning alumni who represented college varsity teams from Williams, Middlebury, Princeton, Denison, Penn, Yale, and Dartmouth.

Each year, more and more alumni participate in the Thanksgiving Skate & Squash. Flag football and basketball will be added to the schedule next time. Keep your sports-dial tuned to Brunswick 2010 for more information!

BRUNSWICK ALUMNI

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BRUNSWICK ALUMNI

“ T ru stee Tailgate ” G athe r i n g with a View The Brunswick “Trustee Tailgate” had a bird’s-eye view as they watched our last at-home football game under the lights on Robert L. Cosby Memorial Field. Both former and current Trustees gathered in the comfort of Durkin Dining Hall as Brunswick competed against Trinity-Pawling School.

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BRUNSWICK ALUMNI

A Night at B a rc elo n a : ’Wick/GA Gather Midtown fo r a J u n e R e u n i ó n Barcelona Bar in New York City was the meeting place for a few happy hours as ’Wick/GA grads in classes 1984–2008 gathered at the annual “Summer Social.”

If you’re Midtown next mid-June, be sure to take a shot at attending this fun event that is always wellattended by our young alumni.

Homecoming

2009

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Gol f O uting at the Griff was

Brrrrrrr

By Bonni Brodnick

When the 9th Annual Alumni Golf Outing started at nine o’clock in the morning, it was a clear and brilliantly colored October day. In an anachronistic blur, blooming daisies and roses at the 18th hole made a splendid presentation against the autumnal backdrop. The Griff (Griffith E. Harris Golf Course in Greenwich) was in all its glory as 80 Brunswick golfers hit the links. Reunion Class of ’94 had four foursomes. Classes of ’69 and ’84 were also well-represented with alumni flying in from London (Peter Gilmore ’69), Denver (Bill Coleman ’69), and Seattle (Tim Johnson ’69). And although José Elverdin ’84 from Buenos Aires was unable to attend the golf outing, he was here in time for the Friday night Barn Party, Homecoming, and other ’84 celebrations.

By noontime at the Griff, the temperatures dropped, the wind got kicky, and the rain began. Golfers wearing shortsleeves quickly realized that they weren’t dressed for the change in weather. Fortunately, the club pro shop was well-stocked

with cold weather golf gear and folks were back in the comfort zone with their new fleecey windbreakers.

“It was getting awfully cold out there,” commented an alumnus among friends in the toasty clubhouse. Before everyone thawed out completely though, it was time to weather the chill once more.

Alums grabbed their wedges for the long-anticipated chipping contest for the game of skill.

“Anyone who chilly-dips it in the bunker has to buy everyone a round,” chided Joe Felder, Griff head pro and longtime PGA professional.

“If you chunk it in, you buy double the raffle tickets,” added Tom Murray, Director of Development always looking to make a buck for the betterment of Brunswick.

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John Carr ’01 stood up to the roar of the crowd and won a hybrid golf club in the chip-off against skillful opponents Andy Benerofe, Henk and Pieter Hartong, Tom O’Malley, and Tom Murray, who stood in for Jim Cabot. Tournament winners with the lowest score were Henk Hartong, Jr., his sons Pieter ’90 and Billy ’92, along with Jim Stephens (Middle School math teacher and all-around athlete/golf and squash coach). The foursomes’ score? An impressive 59.

Food, fun, fellowship, and warmth awaited back in the clubhouse. Jim Pinto ’69 gracefully served as master of ceremonies in Gary Oztemel’s ’75 absence.

Libby Edwards, Director of Alumni Relations, ably assisted Jim as they raffled off terrific prizes. Thanks were expressed to Jim Kingery ’83 and Rye Ford Subaru for putting up a brand-new Ford Fusion at the 11th hole, of which Mike Harris (Upper School math teacher) was the convivial monitor for the day.

Bill Durkin ’72, Brunswick alumnus, parent, Board Trustee, and current Chairman of the Board, recognized Gary O. for launching the Alumni Golf Outing nine years ago. Bill also enlightened alumni on what continues to make Brunswick a standout boys’ day school:

“ . . . and although it’s going to rain tomorrow, the weather won’t dampen our Bruins spirit.”

Brunswick alumni continued to celebrate their reunions with gusto and good cheer before heading out of the Griff to more Homecoming festivities (and a lingering, long and steady rain). j

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T he 2009 D istinguished Al umni Award:

Walter Burke ’4 0

If distinguished service is defined by answering the call for participation over several decades, Walter Burke ’40, belongs in an elite group of Brunswick Alumni. In fact, loyalty has been Walter’s hallmark not only to Brunswick, but also to his many philanthropic interests.

After graduating from Brunswick, Walter attended Dartmouth College (Class of 1944), served in the United States Navy, and obtained his law degree from Columbia University. These three educational institutions had a profound influence on Walter’s view on business, the arts, and society in general. Following law school and a brief tenure at Cadwalader, Wickersham, and Taft, Walter worked for Sherman Fairchild, the inventor and entrepreneur responsible for Fairchild Camera and Fairchild Engine, as well as Fairchild Semiconductor.

Walter transformed the nascent Sherman Fairchild Foundation. He placed it on a trajectory that would allow it to make major contributions to important institutions within education, medical research, and the museum world.

For Walter, the foundation became a perfect laboratory to apply his investment prowess and express his passionate philanthropy. Many of the foundation grants have focused on supporting talented researchers and scholars engaged in esoteric research not supported by conventional funding sources.

Walter felt deeply that the foundation should support these individuals. One of the researchers—whose early work faced funding limitations because it defied long-established basic biological tenets—went on to win a Nobel Prize.

Walter served on Brunswick’s Board as Trustee (1966–1973), and as Board Chairman (1974–1979).

In 1979, he honored his father by placing his name on the then newly constructed Maher Avenue gymnasium.

Walter’s father played a supporting role at Brunswick in the late–1930s when the School needed to convert the existing “country fields” behind the main building into athletic fields. In 2004, when plans were unveiled to transform Burke Gymnasium into a theater, Walter was instrumental in securing funding from Sherman Fairchild Foundation for the construction of the Field House on King Street.

Over several decades, Walter has also served on the Board of Trustees of Dartmouth College, Columbia University, the Morgan Library, California Institute of Technology, and the Metropolitan Museum. He and his wife, Connie, recently celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary.

Their family of five children (Bonnie, Wally ’67, Diane, Douglas ’74 and Nancy [P’08]) has grown to include nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Continuing their longevity at Brunswick School, Walter and Connie have thoroughly enjoyed seeing the next generation of Brunswick students through the eyes of their grandson, Drew Tunney ’08, who recently departed for Dartmouth College.

“When Walter Burke became Brunswick Board Chairman in 1974, we were strong academically, but the other aspects of the School were not yet in place,” recalled current Board Chair Bill Durkin ’72. “Endowment was practically nonexistent, physical facilities were antiquated, and faculty housing was becoming necessary. Improvements in all categories, including academics, were accelerated through his foresight and efforts. Walter was the person who truly ‘got the ball rolling’ to make Brunswick the great school that it is today.” j

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Weather R eport:

R a iny with a C hance o f M or e Rain

A

little drizzle it wasn’t. At Homecoming 2009, it rained buckets. Sideways and in sheets. All morning. All afternoon. All evening.

After a drenched, but lively ’Wick Walk Run on Maher Avenue, King Street reigned with activities nonetheless. Burke Field House provided shelter from the storm. Tables were laden with mini-pumpkins and seasonal mums. Director of Brunswick Food Service Herberth Melgar and Executive Chef Billy LeVasseur cooked up a storm and kept everyone satiated. The ad hoc Bruins Store did a brisk business with stadium cushions, plush Bruin bears wearing knit sweaters, caps, shirts, belts, and boxers, and the rush for umbrellas and rain gear created a new fashion niche at King Street.

Bear Fair, for ages 3 and up, started at 10 a.m. Within minutes, it was a beehive of frivolity as Brunswick offspring gave it their all. Frog Fling, Guitar Hero, NBA/NFL Blitz,

By Bonni Brodnick

Plinko, and Bingo were the hottest booths on the fairway.

And Dance, Dance Revolution (DDR), a rhythm and dance video game where players stand on a “dance platform” and hit colored arrows with their feet to musical and visual cues, was hopping.

When we asked Sean Kazazes, a 7th grader manning DDR, if there were any stand-out dancers, he responded, “People aren’t that great, but if they try really hard, I give them prize tickets anyway to make them feel good.”

Muddy fields didn’t hold back the cross country race, alumni soccer, and flag football games.

“Due to the weather of the last few alumni games at Homecoming, many of the faculty players were actually accustomed to playing in the mud,” said Neil Minsky, Middle School Academic Dean and English teacher, as well as Middle School soccer coach. “As we get older in fact, we use that to our advantage against the younger alumni. All in (continued on page 49)

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(continued from page 46)

all, there were only a couple of pulled hammies during the games. It wouldn’t be Homecoming Weekend without that.”

While in the Field House under cover, we caught up with alumnus Russ Seversen ’44 who reminisced about being a Brunswick student 65 years ago.

“William L. Henry was headmaster, and along with being a Latin teacher, he taught us how to be gentlemen,” Russ said. “Annual tuition was $500 and there were six students in my graduating year.”

“One of my favorite classes was Analytical Geometry taught by Mr. Cahill,” he continued. “With only two in the class, it was quite a rewarding learning experience, and if one didn’t complete his homework assignment it became altogether too obvious.”

Since his Bruins years, Russ has worked on the optical guidance system for the Apollo space program as project officer at MIT. He was also project engineer on the Star Tracker and Sun Sensors for the Voyager and Mars/Venus/Mercury space probes guidance system. Before retirement, his last project was program manager on the ICBM MX Missile.

“I’ve had an interesting life and received my start right here at Brunswick,” Russ said. “The teachers took a great deal of interest in their students and tried to help us find

our way. And not only did we learn academics, we also learned how to carry ourselves in conversations with the ability to express ourselves. It’s little things like that that play such an important part in later life.”

Varsity football vs. St. Luke’s School on Cosby Memorial Field was a shutout with Bruins 27/St. Luke’s 6.

Although it rained at every home game this season, the turf drained well and the boys were accustomed to playing in the inclement weather.

“Brunswick had no trouble moving the ball up and down the field,” said John Booth, chair of Brunswick History Department and Upper School history teacher, as he gave his perspective from the booth overlooking Robert L. Cosby Memorial Field. “Mike Harris is the ‘king’ of announcing football games at Brunswick, but since he’s mostly on the field helping to coach this season, this is only my second time announcing. Mike missed being in the booth though, so we let him come up and relive old times. We were a real team announcing the Homecoming game this afternoon.”

“It’s great to see alums back in town, especially students from my ’94, ’99 and ’04 classes,” John continued.

“Now they have jobs, wives, and kids of their own. It’s fun to see the boys all grown up and still loving Brunswick.””j

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class Notes Compiled by Libby Edwards & Leslie Lopez

1933 Brunswick Hockey Team

1959 “The Class of 1959 celebrated a joyous 50th Reunion on Homecoming Day,” reports Tom Hartch. “Out of a class of approximately 25, five of us, accompanied in most cases by our wives, returned.

The stalwarts in attendance were Jim Benerofe, newspaper publisher; Dimitri Bulazel, architect; Carter Ford, consultant; Tom Hartch, attorney, and Stan Hill, financial planner.

“The Reunion evening started at the award-winning Lower School located on the King Street campus.

After the general alumni cocktail party in the cafeteria, which has a sweeping view of Robert L. Cosby Memorial Field, we then went for dinner one flight up in the Lower School library.

“The cuisine and camaraderie were excellent. Not only were pleasant reminiscences of school days exchanged, but

 Class of ’59 enjoyed their 50th reunion at a 2009 Homecoming dinner in the Lower School library.

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CLASS NOTES

those present shared recent telephone communications and meetings with other class members including Gary Chase, Karl Feil, Bill Heron, Stephen Lewis, George Marshall, John Marshall, Steve Pomerance, Skipper Slack, and Peter Way. Tributes were paid to those classmates who are deceased: Walter Bivens, Michael Collyer, Charles (“Pug”) Sherwood, Jim Sonke, and Charles Weiss. Two classmates for whom we have no current contact information are Don Beebe and Martin Hatcher. If you have such information, please advise Libby Edwards, Director of Alumni Relations (ledwards@brunswickschool.org).

“At the end of the dinner, plans were made for our 55th reunion in 2014 and how we could stay in touch before then.

Altogether, it was a wonderful opportunity to renew and expand our friendships in the outstanding setting of our new King Street campus.”

1962 Pete Dunn informed us that he transferred from Northrop Grumman to SAIC as a senior systems engineer.

“I’m trying to figure out how to retire with two boys in college! In March, I went back on active duty with the Navy to teach orbital mechanics at Buckley AFB. I’m still teaching a Bible study in the dorm there. All goes well, by the grace of God....”

1963

1969

David Tufts was featured on the cover of Research magazine’s August 2009 issue in an article titled, “Portrait of a Branch Manager.” David, senior managing director of Oppenheimer & Company’s Park Avenue office, said that he is still using the English and math that was drilled into him while he attended Brunswick.

David lives in Manhattan, has two married daughters in Santa Barbara, and one granddaughter.

Albert (“Tim”) Johnson, Jr. writes:

“As a co-chair for the 40th reunion and Olympiad of the Class of ’69, the weekend was a great success in bringing together 15 classmates of varying circumferences and pate stylings. Thursday was the midpoint in a 10-day exhibition at Maher Avenue of the art of Robert Selkowitz. As a shameless supporter, Robert has developed his own discernible style in the mediums of oil and pastels.

Pete Dunn and his lovely family (left to right): “Andy, with curly hair since his bone marrow transplant last year; Caleb, with enough hair for all of us; Kris, ever-so-fetching; Pete (the ol’ guy), Katie (Dunn) Wallace (married May ’08), and her husband, Andy Wallace (he pays for Katie now),” wrote Pete.

 Alan (“Lanny”) Bolte ’62 sent greetings from Place de l’Hôtel de Ville in Arles, France.

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CLASS NOTES

Congrats! Friday at Homecoming was cold and gray, nonetheless a best ball foursome (Peter Gilmore, Bill Coleman, James Pinto, and me) upheld the honor of the Class in this Alumni contest. We finished and James took home several raffle prizes. On Friday evening, reunionites gathered for dinner at the Belle Haven Club hosted by Dale and James Pinto. A free meal always appeals to ’69ers. Fourteen classmates showed, with some wives and adult children, joining us. Andy Grunow won for Most Hair (not best hair) and Gary Montanus took Least Hair. I continued as BMOC (big man on campus) with a circumference equal to my height.

Bucky Johnson was Dorian Grey, but

all were recognizable. Saturday was cold and wet as we saw eight classmates cheer on the Bruins to victory. A surprise attendee was mate Greg Hohn, Greenwich Cycle Importer.

“From a surviving class of 33 total grads, nearly half returned. I call for all classmates to, once again, gather in the study hall at Maher 10 years hence to celebrate our 50th. Valet parking will be available for all walkers and wheelchairs.

Extra seating for nurses will be provided.

The words to ‘Boys of Brunswick’ are being revised to, ‘Boys of Brunswick, Life’s behind us./ Fifty years now nurses mind us./ Arthritic joints and cataracts blind us./ Courage, Honor, Soup!’

“Thanks to all for a great reunion.”

1972 William J. Oppenheim’s son, Willy, is among 32 American men and women chosen as Rhodes Scholars representing the U.S. He will study at the University of Oxford in England.

Willy graduated magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Bowdoin, with a self-designed major in anthropology, religion and education. To read more about his journey, research, and many awards visit bowdoin.edu/news/ archives/1bowdoincampus/006885.shtml.

1981 Neil Burger, New York-based film director and screenwriter, is directing Universal’s techno thriller, The Dark Fields. Starring Bradley Cooper (from The Hangover), the film is about a young man who comes into possession of the ultimate smart pill, and the events that ensue. Neil has also updated the screenplay, The Bride of Frankenstein for Universal. He lives in NYC with his two children and his wife, architect Diana Kellogg.

Robert Selkowitz’s ’69 oil on canvas artwork on display at Brunswick’s Center for the Arts in the Upper School. Left to right: Peggy’s Cove, Saranac Lake, Mohonk Porch.

Visit artfolks.com/docs/rcontent.htm.

Class of ’69 (left to right): Bucky Johnson, Tom Lopiano, Tim Johnson, Tim Etchells, James Pinto, Gary Montanus, Chris Schultz, Andy Grunow, Kevin McCauley, Mark Rice, Bill Coleman, Robert Selkowitz, Peter Gilmore, Mike GiGennero (our former Brunswick English teacher), and Wally Hauck. Thanks to Dale and James Pinto for hosting the reunion dinner at the Belle Haven Club.

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CLASS NOTES

1983 John-Paul (“JP”) Bruynes and Ashley Potter were married April 18, 2009, at Lyford Cay in the Bahamas. They had a small family wedding followed by a reception in NYC. JP’s nephew William Ponce ’13 was an usher in the wedding ceremony. JP and Ashley, also from Greenwich, knew one another growing up and reconnected on a date arranged by their sisters, who were friends at Greenwich Academy. JP is a partner in the Investment Funds Practice Group at Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP. Ashley is deputy chief special events officer at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, where the couple reside.

1987 Known to his devoted fans as “The Sports Guy,” Bill Simmons is one of the most popular sportswriters in the country. He recently published his second book, The Book of Basketball: The NBA According To The Sports Guy, which is a #1 bestseller on the New York Times list. Bill’s first book, Now I Can Die in Peace, published in 2005, is about his love of the Boston Red Sox.

Ryan Faherty ’93 is proud dad of son, Colin James.

JP Bruynes ’83 and Ashley Potter on their wedding day at Lyford Cay in the Bahamas.

1990 Douglas P. Fields, Jr. recently sold his firm, Puresend, which he founded in 2001, to The Active Network, Inc. Doug will stay on with Active as a director of technology, focusing on e-mail solutions. After Brunswick, Doug attended Yale and New York universities. He lives in NYC with his wife, Brenda, and son, Doug III, who goes by “Tres.”

Ian Murray ’93 and Dr. Jamie Meehan Roach on their wedding day in Edgartown, Martha’s Vineyard. (above) Getting to the church on time. (below) After the ceremony.

Jonathan Phillips, an actor passionate about his craft, has moved to Hollywood.

A Cos Cob native, he comes from a family of actors—his mother, Florence Phillips and Madelyn O’Neil.

1993 Ryan Faherty and his wife, Carol, announce the April 2009 arrival of their second child, Colin James Faherty. “All are well.”

REUNION 2010 ALERT! Celebrate the years since graduation at Homecoming Weekend! This year it’s Classes ending in 5s and 10s.

To stay informed of all events, please contact Libby Edwards at ledwards@brunswickschool.org or 800.546.9425.

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CLASS NOTES

Introducing Pierce Michael Ritman, son of James Ritman ’94

Ian Murray, co-founder and CEO of Vineyard Vines, married Dr. Jamie Meehan Roach at St. Elizabeth’s Church in Edgartown last May. Jamie is a pediatrician at Stamford/Darien Pediatrics. “We dated in high school and college,” Ian said. “Jamie went to the Brunswick prom with me and we got back together after a 10-year break.

Crazy.” Scott Bryant ’93 played the guitar at their wedding.

In October, Janne Kouri and NextStep Fitness were featured on ABC-TV’s “Good Morning America.” [See Times of Brunswick (summer 2009 issue) for Janne’s story]

Michael Kennedy ’99 and his bride, Courtney Campbell, are regaled under an archway of hockey sticks.

1994 James Ritman and his wife, Abby, welcomed Pierce Michael Ritman on Oct. 30, 2009. Baby Pierce weighed 7 lbs, 13 oz and was 21 inches long. “He is incredible! Abby and I couldn’t have wished for a more beautiful little boy.”

Brunswick grads and friends at Tucker Martin ’99’s wedding include: Front row (left to right): Colin Murphy, Robert Rafter ’99, Charles Carson ’98, and Greg Moroney ’99; Back row (left to right): Conor French, Bailey Hallingby ’98, the groom, Trevor Martin ’98,Tagg Martin ’09, and Ted Conrads ’99.

1995 Michael Grunow and his wife, Beth, had their new baby, Benjamin, in November.

Mike said, “‘Big Ben’ weighed in at 11 lbs, 6 oz and Mommy and baby are well.” They reside in Mountain View, Calif.

1998 Robert Profusek’s first feature film, Holy Rollers, was accepted into competition at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival. “I couldn’t be more happy to return to Park City with Holy Rollers,” Rob said. His company, Toy Closet Films, is also moving forward with nine other feature film projects, in addition to working with a collection of brands on various commercial and entertainment-based initiatives.

1999 Michael Kennedy, Brunswick Upper School English teacher and varsity hockey assistant coach, wed Courtney Campbell in October in New Canaan, Conn. Ron VanBelle, Upper School math teacher and varsity hockey head coach, along with a handful of Brunswick students held hockey sticks as an archway.

Tucker Martin wed Meredith Ann Vanderwarker last June on Martha’s Vineyard. Tucker’s brothers Trevor ’98 and Taggie ’09 were best men. His attendants included Edward Conrads, and Gregory Moroney.

’Wick and GA alums celebrate at Matthew Lorig ’99’s wedding in August. Back row (left to right): Trevor Sutton ’99, Parker Sutton ’03; Front row (left to right): Faith Carter GA ’99, Janet Boysen GA ’99, Howard Spector ’94, Erica Spector GA ’00, Julie Lenehan Lorig (bride), groom, Courtney Sutton GA ’02, Elizabeth Lorig GA ’01, Andy Lorig ’05, and John Stratton ’79.

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CLASS NOTES

The U.S. Army recently honored Captain Nathan Raymond. He is one of five U.S. infantry officers chosen for the Joint Chiefs Internship Program. Nate is at Fort Belvoir (Va.) and recently began a one-year master’s program at Georgetown. He will then serve two years with the Joint Chiefs at the Pentagon before moving on to another unit.

Scott Sievwright married Davina Pollak last July at the New York Botanical Garden. John Booth (Brunswick Upper School History Department Chair and a Justice of the Peace) performed the ceremony. Scott’s brother, Ian ’97, was his best man and Bobby Neilsen ’98 was an usher.

Capt. Nathan Raymond ’99 and his wife, Rebecca GA ’99, at the Redeployment Ball late last year.

Scott Sievwright ’99 married Davina Pollak.

2000 Joseph (“Tucker”) McKee recently wed Catherine Anne Greensfelder.

After Brunswick, Tucker attended Duke University. He is senior associate in acquisitions at Digital Realty Trust in San Francisco.

Classmates surround the groom Tucker McKee: (left to right) Chris Smith, Chase Marsh, Brian Moran, and Phil Geiger.

Sam Kies ’04, a second lieutenant in the Army’s 10th Mountain Division, pictured with his father, Bill ’66 and mother, Stefanie.

2002 In August, Mark Eisenacher married Alma Sawyer Moxon in Bald Head Island, N.C.

2004 Sam Kies, a second lieutenant in the Army’s 10th Mountain Division, graduated from Ranger School in October 2009. Sam deployed to Iraq this January.

If you’d like to send him a note and stay in touch: samuel.b.kies@gmail.com.

At the Bald Island, N.C., wedding of Mark Eisenacher ’02 and Alma Sawyer Maxon, at front, other Brunswick friends in attendance included (left to right): David Clarke ’85, Jamie Coffin ’02, Sam Epstein ’02, David Gerkin ’02, Matt Heineman ’01, Hugh Jessiman ’02, Steve Leary ’85, Matt MacDonald ’02, Ryan Purcell ’02, and Matt Wiggins ’02.

(Missing from photo is Akin Akingbala ’02.)

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CLASS NOTES

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. 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

2006 Phaethon Bolton, a senior at Wake Forest majoring in communications, has been selected to join Wake Forest’s basketball team.

Phaethon Bolton ’06

This past summer, tutoring entrepreneur James Francis, a student at Dartmouth College, launched the Greenwich branch of Ivy Insiders, an innovative SAT prep program. “Ivy Insiders is a fresh, new approach to test prep,” said Francis.

For more information, contact him at james_francis@ivyinsiders.com.

Matthew Sargent, a senior at Kenyon College majoring in economics, was named to the Merit List for the second semester of the 2008–09 academic year.

Tim Belden, co-captain, of the Hamilton College varsity eight crew, helped when they took first place in the Bridgeto-Bridge Head Race on the Erie Canal (6.6K) last October.

Vaughn Hodges volunteers at Stamford Hospital’s emergency department.

Hodges, a senior at Columbia University, wants to study medicine. “I chose to be in the emergency department where I get to see a lot of action,” Vaughn said.

James Thorman is tri-captain of Princeton’s varsity squash team this year.

All three tri-captains of the 2006 ’Wick varsity tennis team are captains of their college teams. James Francis is president of the Dartmouth tennis club, Zach Hascoe is captain of the Bucknell tennis team, and Charlie Brosens is captain of the Princeton tennis team.

2007 Colin Raymond won the Superior Cadet Award of the American Legion as the outstanding ROTC cadet at Notre Dame for the 2008–2009 school year.

He also won the German Armed Forces Badge, presented jointly by the U.S. and German armies for ROTC proficiency. Colin is on the Dean’s List for the academic year, and was elected vice president of Morrissey Hall.

REUNION 2010 ALERT! Celebrate the years since graduation at Homecoming Weekend! This year it’s Classes ending in 5s and 10s.

To stay informed of all events, please contact Libby Edwards at ledwards@brunswickschool.org or 800.546.9425..

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CLASS NOTES

2008 Chris Ghaffari was a leadership apprentice for the Greenwich Shakespeare on the Sound’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The position involves interested students in all aspects of theater production, from small parts in the play to ensuring everyone’s cell phone is turned off before the performers hit the stage.

“It’s not very glamorous,” he said about many of his duties. “It’s a lot of intern grunt work, but it has been really valu-

able.” Chris is in his second year at Princeton University studying economics and theater.

2009 While volunteering in Africa last summer, Will Drennen asked a Rwandan tour guide what distinguished a middleclass family from an upper-class family in that African country. The answer?

Surprisingly, a refrigerator. “Seeing that something that’s so common in

America was a luxury in Rwanda just gives you perspective,” Will said. He traveled to Rwanda for two weeks in order to participate in Project Blessing, and seeks to use donations and volunteer efforts to help modernize the Rwandan town of Cyabatanzit by making water, education, and medical services more accessible. His tour group visited several Rwandan genocide memorials, learned about the history of the 1994 genocide and the way in which it has affected, and continues to affect, the country. j

in memoriam John Armstrong ’36, former Riverside, Conn., resident, died on Nov. 4, 2009 in Shelburne, Va. After Brunswick, John attended Deerfield Academy, Williams College, and New York University. Following a brief period of employment with DuPont, John worked at his father’s firm, George S. Armstrong Company, NYC, as a consulting engineer and rose to be its president. He retired in 1995 and is survived by his three daughters, Karin, Christine, and Lise, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

John Erick Cole ’79 passed away last June in Arlington, Va. He was a horseman, polo player, announcer, and proud father. After Brunswick, John attended Texas A&M on a polo scholarship, before finishing at the University of Connecticut with a degree in animal sciences. John devoted his life to the training of horses and the people who

rode them. An accomplished equestrian, he began his career on the hunter jumper circuit, competing throughout the East Coast. He also achieved high rankings in arena and outdoor polo, became a well-regarded coach and teacher of the sport, managed several polo clubs, and coached both the Yale and the University of Connecticut teams. Later, he became a polo game announcer, making the game accessible and exciting for the uninitiated. He became a familiar voice at tournaments in Greenwich and Bridgehampton.

John is survived by a son, Emerson, his parents, and a brother, Chris Cole ’83.

Robert (“Bob”) Edwards ’41 passed away at his home in Hobe Sound, Fla. in March at the age of 84. After attending Brunswick with his brothers, Duncan ’30 and Alexander (“Sandy”) ’39, Bob attended Princeton. He served in the 8th Air Force as a bombardier and flew several missions out of England over Germany before returning to college. Bob spent many years with R.R. Donnelley & Sons and became a recognized expert in the field of printing.

For many years, he lived on the grounds of the Chicago Golf Club and was an avid golfer and hockey player.

Bob is survived by his wife, Gloria; daughter, Sally Simpson; two grandsons; and his sister, Eunice Tenney. He is a member of a long line of Edwards who have graced the halls of Brunswick: brothers Sandy ’39, Duncan ’30 (former Brunswick Trustee), nephews Duncan ’70 (former Brunswick Headmaster), Kevin ’76, as well as grand nieces and nephews.

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CLASS NOTES

in memoriam Steven P. Grunow ’65, of Old Greenwich, passed away in September 2009 at the age of 62. He was born in Cambridge, Mass., and moved to Old Greenwich in 1948. After Brunswick, Steven attended Bucknell and Columbia universities. He entered the building business, first working for Doublemont Corporation, the developer of Dolphin Cove in Stamford. In 1975, he opened his own company. He and his son, Benjamin, joined in 1999 to form Grunow Builders Inc., which Ben continues to operate. Steven loved Old Greenwich, the community in which he lived most of his life. He was committed to the Sound Beach Volunteer Fire Department, which he joined in 1968, served as chief from 1982 to 1986, and was president of the board of directors.

Steven is survived by his wife, Linda; his daughter, Margaret Grunow Conze, her husband, Dietrich, and their daughter, Maren of Kensington, Md.; Benjamin Grunow ’93, his wife, Dana, and their children, Charlie and Whitney of Darien; and Michael Grunow ’95, his wife, Beth, and their sons, Teddy and Benji of Mountain View, Calif. He is also survived by his sister, Patricia Robertson of Clinton, N.Y., and his brothers John ’65 of Ocean Reef, Fla.; Andrew ’69 of Stamford; Thomas ’70 of La Jolla, Calif.; Peter of Riverside; and 12 nieces and nephews, including Andrew (“AJ”) Grunow ’05 and Paul Grunow ’08.

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Derek (“Rick”) Lee ’62 died peacefully in August at the Commonwealth University Medical Center in Richmond, Va. His wife Margot said, “He was Ricky up to the end—still making passes at the nurses and jokes with his family.” At Brunswick since Kindergarten, Ricky was a “Lifer.”

He moved to the Bahamas in June 1986, after a 21-year career in the interior furnishings business in NYC. He started his Bahamian career as special project director for a hardware and building materials company. Rick then became chief financial officer for a shipping company. In 1996, the building materials company was sold.

Rick remained chief financial officer of the shipping company and went on to school to get a real estate license. He started the Abaco Islands branch of H. G. Christie, Ltd., the largest, oldest, and most extensive real estate service in the Bahamas. In 2006, Rick opened his own real estate company with a partner.

Rick continued to work in community service for most of his life. Most recently, he worked in several advisoryconsulting positions for the Bahamian local government. He also served on the board of directors of the Abaco Chamber of Commerce and was a former president. He was also founder and chairman emeritus of the Abaco Chapter of the Bahamas Real Estate Association, the governing and regulatory organization for Bahamian real estate.

In addition to his wife, Margot, Rick is survived by his three children; daughter, Caren; oldest son, Davis ’93, and youngest son, Timothy ’96.

Eric Sandberg ’55, from St. John, Fla., passed away suddenly in August while attending a conference in Albuquerque.

Fortunately, his loving wife, Ann, and his daughters were able to fly out to New Mexico to be by his side before he passed.

Thomas Hardy Schwalm died peacefully in July 2009 at his home in Florida. Thomas graduated from University of Wisconsin and followed a long family history in the beverage business by co-founding South Beach Beverage Company (SOBE). He later sold the business to PepsiCo Corp. In 2001, he became owner of the Thousand Islands Country Club (in Wellesley Island, N.Y.), which was established in the late 1800s and was once a portion of the George Boldt estate. An enthusiastic boat lover, Schwalm was an active member of the board at the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, N.Y. He will always be remembered as a loving husband, brother, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend to all.

Thomas is survived by his wife, JoAnn (former administrative assistant to the head of Brunswick Middle School for several years); three sons: Mat ’90; Dugan ’93; Brad ’98; a grandson, a sister, and nieces. j

In Remembrance of Bill Dick F ormer B runswick T eacher , M entor , B ridge - M aker

J une 1 5 , 1 9 3 1 – november 1 6 , 2 0 0 9

Winter 2010 | Times of Brunswick

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I

t is with sadness that Brunswick School announces that our beloved former Brunswick faculty member, Bill Dick, passed away at the age of 78 on November 16, 2009.

Bill was born and raised in Brooklyn, and was descended on his mother’s side from the family of Hans Hansen Bergen, one of the original European settlers of the Colony of New Amsterdam.

Bill earned his bachelor’s degree in Classics from Columbia University in 1953 and a master’s from Britain’s Oxford University in 1956, which he attended as a Kellett Fellow. He taught Latin at Brunswick from 1960 to 1998. As Dean of Coordination for Brunswick and Greenwich Academy, Bill was integral in developing the program for our Upper School students. The image of bridge-maker between the two schools is one that most accurately portrays the role played by a very special man with such a long and illustrious career at Brunswick School.

After retiring in 1998, Bill taught classes in poetry appreciation and Shakespeare at the Lifetime Learners program at Norwalk Community College. He was an avid student of ancient history and languages and was fluent in several. For many years he wrote poetry, some of which has been published in anthologies and textbooks.

“It was Mr. Dick’s role as a teacher that he was best able to share those personal qualities that helped sustain and inspire his students,” wrote the Brunswick Yearbook Committee as they acknowledged Bill’s retirement in Brown and White–1998. “His greatest happiness came from seeing his students do well. …”

Nouns and adjectives repeated time and again by students and faculty in describing Mr. Dick are self-control, reasonable, patient, unflappable, self-possession, scholarly, flexible, learned, thorough, dependable, competent, dry-wit, conscientious, and more. In 38 years, no one can recall him losing his temper or composure. “He is indeed a gentle-man who always had time to talk. … Here’s to Mr. William Dick, 1960 to 1998.”

The Brunswick community was quick to respond to the news of Bill’s passing.

“I knew Bill as both his student and his colleague,” wrote Duncan Edwards III, former Brunswick Headmaster from 1988– 2001 and Brunswick alumnus Class of ’70. “Bill met the standard of ‘gentleman’ by the strictest and truest definition of the word. He was not a man of glitz or flash; his ‘act’ was absent of self-promotion and self-congratulation; and he never sought or pursued great acclaim or attention. Simply, Bill did his job; he did it so very well and he did it—as he did everything—for always the right and most generous reasons. Instinctively, he always did, said, and defended what he thought and knew to be true; he respected and practiced his craft with the greatest grace, pride, and dignity; he served Brunswick School with a reassuring calm and the deepest pride; and the virtues he held dear—honor, truth, integrity, compassion—were virtues honored in his every day, in his every moment.

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“Bill was a quiet force at Brunswick,” Mr. Edwards continued, “but make no mistake, he was a force. His work may too often have gone without notice but for Bill that was fine, as he never sought credit, never chased titles, and never needed the casual approval of others. Instead, he sought only to give, to share, and to serve.

“Good men are, and will always be, in short supply. I’m afraid with Bill’s passing that supply is now one shorter. But our School (a place he dearly loved), its students, and all who were lucky enough to have known, to have worked with, or to have been taught by Bill are forever better for his touch, his simple decency, his great kindness, and his true heart,” he continued.

“I was lucky to have been taught by Bill both as a boy and as a man, and I will miss him.”

“He was a thoughtful, kind, and smart person,” wrote former student Marc Brahaney ’73. “Mr. Dick opened my eyes to Roman literature, theater, and history. Some of the Latin language training is still with me today. It just goes to show that the influence of good teachers can reverberate for a lifetime.”

Bill is survived by his wife, Esme; sons Peter and Paul; grandchildren Connor, Kelsey, and Stephen; his brother John and sister-in-law Mary Beth of Port Chester; eight nieces and nephews; ten great-nieces, and eight great-nephews. j

his greatest happiness came from seeing

his students do well.

Thanks for

answering the call!

D

uring our two-night Phonathon in early November, nearly 50 dedicated and enthusiastic dads volunteered to make calls on behalf of the 2009–2010 ’Wick Annual Fund. Many thanks to all who took the time (and forfeited watching the World Series) to help us communicate the Annual Fund message in support of our talented faculty … and thanks to you for answering the call.

By the end of the evening, several hundred phone calls were made, resulting in over $1 million in gifts and pledges. Because tuition at Brunswick only covers 85 percent of the School’s operating expenses (and income from endowment goes directly to service our debt), we rely on Annual Giving to cover 15 percent of our annual operating budget. Your support—at any level—is an invaluable contribution to our School, our programs and facilities, and most importantly … to our boys.

For those who may not have been home to pick up the phone, please contact Krista Bruce in the Development Office at 203.625.5864 or kbruce@ brunswickschool.org. You can also give online at BrunswickSchool.org/giving. Please ask your company whether it has a matching gift program.

Every dollar will serve to protect our beloved Brunswick in all we do to ably and generously educate every boy, day after day … year after year. Thank you!

Winter 2010 | Times of Brunswick

3

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