Berkshire Bulletin Class Notes Edition, Winter 2017

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Winter 2017

B U L L E T I N Class Notes Edition

BERKSHIRE


Remember when... Celebrate the classes of ’2s and ’7s! See who’s coming and register today! www.berkshireschool.org/reunionweekend or contact Jodi Rathbun at 413-229-1308 • jrathbun@berkshireschool.org

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Berkshire Bulletin


Class Notes

1943

1952

Teddy Sumner writes: “I am 92 and living with my wife Sarah Sumner (91), at Hampshire House in Oneonta, NY. My mailing address is: PO Box 302, Springfield Center, NY 13468. I am still dreaming up interesting inventions and fondly remembering great times doing my job at Berkshire, running up the mountain to check the water!” Editor’s Note: Sadly, Teddy passed away on January 15 of this year. He will be remembered in the next issue of the Bulletin.

Tad Woodhull writes: “I married Joan Patterson in Rye, NY in 1960. We have two children (Jay and Joy), four grandchildren (Allie, Corbin, Connor, and Victoria), and one great grandson on the way. I retired in 2010 and moved from Maine to Vero Beach, FL after living most everywhere else.

65 th

Tad Woodhull ’52 with family at Vero Beach, FL on his 75th birthday

1955 Stephen V. R. Spaulding III Teddy Sumner ’43 with wife, Sarah, at sunset

1947

70 th

1949 Robert W. Doyle, Sr. robertwdoylesr@gmail.com

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Moe England writes: “I’m still living in my hometown of Lenox, MA and have moved to Kimball Farms Retirement Community on Walker Street. I’m known at Kimball for my eclectic ‘bottles of beer on the wall’ from my days running Merchant du Vin. I’m one of the craft beer pioneers, helping ignite the local brew movement by importing brands like Sam Smith. I couldn’t give away beer for $7 a bottle 30 years ago, but now, that’s a bargain. I’m a salesman at heart and know a good product when I taste it so I’m thinking of getting back in the biz and distributing an artisanal whiskey. If anyone is in the Berkshires, stop by and we’ll have a drink.”

rensf@yahoo.com

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Frederick Twichell writes: “Recently moved to a smaller home. Downsizing is not fun. I have four grandchildren at Thacher School where I worked for 33 years. They are a lot of fun.”

1956 Daniel C. M. Crabbe dan.crabbe@comcast.net

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Frank Wolcott writes: “I retired from the financial world and am living on a small farm in Salisbury, CT and on the coast of Maine restoring old cars and boats.”

REUNION 2017 JUNE 9-11

Welcoming back ’2s and ’7s!

1957

60 th

Walter S. Henrion walthenrion@gmail.com

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Walt Henrion writes: “We’re all very excited about our 60th reunion. Here’s the lastest who’s coming list: Anderson, Benson, Billings, Case, Cohen, Conway, Delamater, Hall, Henrion, Katzenbach, Kirtz, McNamara, Monahan, Odell, Schroeder, Shields, Simpson, Wood, and wives. See y’all June 9-11.” Mac Odell writes: “Our forthcoming 60th reunion seems awfully far away from my vantage point out here in the Bangladesh Sundarbans—famous as home for the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger. I’m heading up an evaluation of a major project here that aims to save the Sundarbans and its tigers and will be heading by boat through the mangrove forests to see how effective the program has been so far. Last year I was in Pakistan, helping start up a large program I helped design to establish several Centers for Advanced Studies for water, energy and agriculture through a set of partnerships among Pakistani and American universities. I cut that assignment short, however, as the deteriorating security situation helped me decide that I really should be spending more time with my three wonderful grandchildren, with one more to arrive before this issue goes to press. I trust these delightful kids will help me get my priorities straight and keep me closer to home. “ Paul Tompkins writes: “This has been a very busy year for Gail and me as we juggle our travel adventures with watching our nine grandchildren grow and perform—all of whom we are fortunate enough to have near us. Sadly, we won’t be able to join my classmates for our 60th reunion due to our involvement in local (southern California) activities to which we are

Class Notes Edition • Winter 2017

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Class Notes

1970 Robert L. W. McGraw blackrockfarm@hotmail.com

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Robin McGraw writes: “The McGraws and Scarafonis came together to raise a huge amount of money for the Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield, MA. Buzz and Missy are both on the Board at the museum; Buzz is the Chair.”

Peter Kellogg ’61 with Jeri Langham ’61 on a flight to Dulles

committed. However, we will be there in spirit!”

beautiful home in Sun Valley, ID. Excited about our next stage.”

1961

Steve Rothstein writes: “I have been living in Hong Kong for six months and have visited with Sammy Chan.”

Peter R. Kellogg pkellogg@iatre.com

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Jeri Langham writes: “Since I was not able to join my class for our 55th reunion this year, I was very happy to be able to reconnect with Peter Kellogg and Cynnie Kellogg and my older son Gary in Charleston, SC just before hurricane Matthew hit. The hurricane forced us to leave a day early.”

1962

55 th

Andrew S. Berkman aberkman@cpny.com

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1967

50 th

1969

Robin McGraw ’70, his wife, Buzz, and Missy and Matt Scarafoni ’89

Kent S. Clow III ksc3@msn.com

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K.C. Clow writes: “John Turner, Seamus McKeon, Lydia McKeon, and I watched the boys varsity soccer team beat Canterbury on a cold, windy, rainy Alumni Homecoming in October.” Doug Martin writes: “Spent a couple of months last winter out in Tahiti, Cook Islands, and New Zealand. I am still out on Cape Cod, MA the rest of the year. Visitors are always welcome. I’m buying!”

1972

45 th

John Y. G. Walker III jwalker2353@gmail.com

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Spencer Willets writes: “Hello all. What a year! My son, PJ, eloped; and I love his wife, Laura. My daughter, Halowe, went on an adventure trip through Europe—on her own dime. I

Woodson Hancock III whancock3@aol.com

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1968 L. Keith Reed lkreed.mt@gmail.com

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Larry Meads writes: “I have left New York City to retire and live in our

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Berkshire Bulletin

Doug Martin ’69 in Rangiroa (about 355 km northeast of Tahiti)

Jan D’Angelo ’72 and Jess Sherman ’72 were recently found in “ship shape” at the Fort Lauderdale, FL Boat Show.


Class Notes

am very proud. Celebrated 28 years of marriage. Still going strong. Still above ground. Grateful.”

1979

1984

Robert Thomas

Steve Sanders writes: “In March 2015, I was promoted to Deputy Chief of the Appeals Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, where I have served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney since 2007. In June 2015, at a ceremony at the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C., two colleagues and I received Director’s Awards for the successful prosecution and conviction of Paul Bergrin, a defense lawyer (and former federal prosecutor) who used his law practice as a racketeering enterprise, engaging in witness murders, cocaine trafficking, and prostitution, among other crimes.”

bthomas@wwsg.com

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1975 Joseph M. Fusco joe@techworkers.com

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Joe Fusco writes: “Many thanks to Ward Doonan for generously hosting a contingent of alums this summer, including Pat Healy, Barrie Fisher ’78, and various spouses and pets. Chuck DelGrande made a moving tribute at my father’s memorial this summer, attended by Christina Petersen ’74, Beth Carlisle and husband Alex Carlisle ’74.” Rollin Gilbreath Tod writes: “David and I have identical twin 23-year-old daughters, Holly and Parker, pursuing careers in NYC. Our youngest, Hilary, will be attending college on the east coast in Fall 2017. We are currently residing in northeast Ohio.”

David Gefke writes: “All is well in Boston. I formed a new entity, Trident Properties LLC, primarily focused on acquisition and development with a six unit project in the works. Vivian has developed a line of K9 Aromatherapy products that she has launched to the general public and has a wholesale channel as well. The light bulb went off while working in her dog training practice; many of her clients’ dogs exhibited anxiety and fear. Check her out at naturenose.com or bostonk9concierge.com.”

1982

35 th

Anthony P. Addison Doubleany1@gmail.com Thomas B. Fahy, Jr. bfahy44@gmail.com

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James Demmert writes: “I’ve been very passionate about investing since my Econ class with Rick Bellas back in 1981! My recent book about my favorite subject is written for a wide range of readers. It’s educational, interesting and hopefully entertaining!”

40 th

David W. C. Riatti riattid@gmail.com

Lionel A. Shaw lionel_shaw@yahoo.com

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Mike Gibbons writes: “The Great Indoors, a sitcom that airs Thursday nights on CBS, was inspired by my days at Berkshire. Actually, that’s not true, but it will be nice for people to read in the Bulletin. Fun fact: One of the writers is Trey Kollmer, brother of Kat Kollmer Gaudin ’05, Courtney Kollmer ’06, and Dillon Kollmer ’10.”

Mike Gibbons ’85 is executive producer of The Great Indoors, a sitcom that airs Thursday nights on CBS.

Rollin Gilbreath Tod ’75’s daughters Holly, Parker, and Hilary

1977

1985

The Journey to Wealth by James Demmert ’82

Steve Kaczmarek writes: “Still running Borealis Fat Bikes here in Colorado Springs, CO. If anyone wants one just let me know!”

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Class Notes

1987

30 th

Tom Maddock writes: “I retired from the United States Air Force as a Lieutenant Colonel after 22 years of active duty that took me around the world to such locations as Europe, Asia, the Pacific, and the Middle East. My family and I decided to make Albuquerque, NM our permanent home. I now serve veterans and their families as the Human Resources Manager at the Albuquerque Virginia Regional Office. I still enjoy playing hockey, traveling, concerts and spending time with my family.” Eric Person writes: “I was recently awarded the 2015 Executive Officer of the Year from the National Association of Home Builders.”

1988 Scott M. Falso sfalso@gmail.com

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First row: Matt Brand ’88, Scott Falso ’88, John Mullaly ’87, Matt Azar ’87; Second Row: Tony Schwartz ’88, Tom Maiden ’88, Jeffrey Tillou ’88, Will Borders ’88, Kirk Kellogg ’87, Wyndham Lewis ’87, Corey Gilkes ’88, Sam Rockwell ’87, Steve Altman ’88, Paul Consolo (guest), and Errett Van Nice ’88 at the 8th Annual Scooter Open

Scott Falso writes: “We had a nearly record turnout for the 8th Annual Scooter Open with 15 Berkshire grads making the trip. If anyone is interested in participating next year, please reach out to me directly at sfalso@gmail.com.”

1989 Andrew D. Allen andrewdrexelallen@gmail.com David H. Wanamaker davewanamaker@yahoo.com

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1990 Natalie Bradley Clarke ninabclarke@gmail.com

Steven Altman ’88’s son, Joseph with Head of School Pieter Mulder at the Yankees versus Red Sox game in New York City on September 29

Natalie Dillon natdillon@gmail.com

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Nina Bradley Clarke writes: “We just returned from a wonderful trip to London, England in November. We spent several days touring the city with the greatest tour guide, our classmate Sarah Robinson Aird. We got to spend a lot of time with “Bird” and her gorgeous family who live in London. Lots of fun and laughs were had by all!”

1990 reunion: Maggie Ross Meiners, Kate Fisher Fitzgerald, and Nina Bradley Clarke in London, England visiting Sarah Robinson Aird

How are you? Communities thrive on communication. If your class is not listed, it’s because no one sent in an update. But we’d still love to hear from you — and updating the Berkshire community has never been easier. ONLINE www.berkshireschool.org/ classnotes EMAIL classnotes@berkshireschool.org CALL 413-229-1907

Ellie Glaccum Debenham ’88 with Bruce Blaisdell ’64 at the Sea Bright Beach Club this past summer 6

Berkshire Bulletin

Berkshire Bears cheering on the Cubs at Wrigley Field for game three of the 2016 World Series. Pictured, from left: Sam Bodman ’19, Ty Roselli ’10, Alex Colbert ’10, Hallie King Bodman ’90, and Jack Bodman ’89.

Please let us know how you’re doing.


Class Notes

Tales: Stories About Kids Solving Problems is available on Amazon and also on Kindle.

1995 Bradley P. Hunt Bradley_hunt1313@hotmail.com

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Eduardo Rivas writes: “As of August 2016, I am working as Senior Counsel, Business & Legal Affairs for Turner Broadcasting, Inc. in Burbank, CA. My primary clients are Cartoon Network and [adult swim]. I’ve discovered a newfound appreciation for all things animation.”

1996 Julie A. Lemire juleslemire@gmail.com Katherine King Mahan katiecking@yahoo.com Stephanie DiSantis ’92 with David Ortiz and her cousin Lori King

Tatum Vittengl Smigelski tvittengl@yahoo.com

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1992

25 th

Abram W. Duryee III bduryee@hotmail.com

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Stephanie DiSantis writes: “After 8.5 years at Amazon, I’m in the best job ever. I handle strategic partnerships with sports partners and work closely with Major League Baseball (no I can’t get you free tickets). As part of that, I created a commercial featuring David Ortiz, Joe Torre, and Dave O’Brien (sorry Orsillo!). Best part, I hired Bill Simmons to produce it. I now walk around saying annoying things like ‘We’ll fix it in post!’ and ‘That joke doesn’t land!’ like I’m in the biz. The commercial aired on ESPN on November 6, but you can check it out at aws.amazon.com/statcast. This was literally the highlight of not only my career, but life. Especially when Bill Simmons invited me to his offices to talk sports. Swoon!”

1993 Hilary Ivey Mueller hmueller@berkshireschool.org Tenley E. Reed Tenley@mac.com

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Bridgette Craig Bastien writes: “I am very excited to share that my 7-year-old daughter, Emily Bastien, just published her first book, Aqua Tales. This is a tremendous accomplishment for a young girl and I would like to share it with the Berkshire community. Aqua Tales is a collection of short stories about kids solving problems and overcoming life’s challenges. It offers creative solutions for children and reinforces the importance of love, trust, and honesty. It provides a unique glimpse into nature through the eyes of a young girl and encourages readers to let their imaginations run wild. Whether you are a ‘scaredy hunter’ or a ‘talk mouth’, this book will capture your heart and inspire you to pursue your dreams no matter the obstacles. Aqua

Siiri Morley writes: “I am living in Jamaica Plain, MA and leading a Bostonbased nonprofit called Strong Women, Strong Girls as the Executive Director. The organization’s vision is to enable every girl to realize her inner strengths to dream and do. With an after-school mentoring program in the Greater Boston area, it is focused on helping girls maintain high self esteem and leadership aspirations. My husband Jeremy and I are also expecting our first baby in January 2017. We are motivated to continue to dig into the Boston community as a small family to create positive changes.” Javier Winnik writes: “After selling 1,200 copies of my first graphic novel, A Reason to Smile! Volume 1, I have finally released Volume 2 for the masses to enjoy! I debuted the book at the North Carolina Comic Con and sold 33 copies, which is my third best sales weekend at a Comic Con! This book is better and was done faster than Volume 1, so here’s hoping it reaches the 1,200 mark faster

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Class Notes

B

Calling the classes of ’77

’42

’47

’52

’57

’72

’67

’62

as well! In another bit of amazing news, I am finally becoming a father with Carey Nava Winnik! Editor’s note: Maya Nava Winnik was born on 12/23/16.

1997 ’82

’87

’92

’97

’02

’07

’12

The Matt Brand ’88 Challenge

20 th

Gordon B. Kellam gordonkellam@yahoo.com

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John Harker writes: “Recently moved back to New Hampshire and became Commanding Officer of Coast Guard Station Portsmouth Harbor. With 16 years of service, I will be ‘retirement eligible’ in 2020.”

REUNION WEEKEND JUNE 9-11, 2017 Register by May 1! If 33%, or more, of your class registers and pays for Reunion Weekend by May 1, 2017, each classmate registered by this date will receive a complimentary Berkshire School puffy vest!

Register for Reunion Weekend today by calling 413-229-1308, emailing jrathbun@berkshireschool.org, or by going online to www.berkshireschool.org/reunionweekend.

SEE YOU UNDER THE MOUNTAIN IN JUNE!

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Berkshire Bulletin

John Harker ’97 became Commanding Officer of the Coast Guard Station in Portsmouth, NH Harbor.

1999 Michael D. Gutenplan michaelgutenplan@aol.com George S. Scoville III gscovillempp@gmail.com

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Michael Gutenplan writes: “I hope everyone had a fantastic 2016. I am still performing magic as well as creating reality TV shows. I love connecting with Berkshire alumni as I travel the world. It was great to catch up with Colin Ward ’98 in Cape Town, South Africa and Jason Javosky in New York. I am super happy that I get to see Alex Culter more often now that he’s made his triumphant return to Los Angeles, CA! If you’re in the LA area please let me know!”


Class Notes

Weddings 1997 Chris Ekster and Amanda Wheeler were married on September 30 at Kontokosta Winery in Greenport, NY.

2001

Hollis Davenport Cheng and Arvin Cheng were married on October 5 in Jackson, WY.

Nicole Picotte Smith ’09 and husband, Kyle, with classmates Allie Hibbs, Kelly Wallace, Shannon Kerr, Alena Luciani, Molly Ryan, Chelsea Fizell, and Barry Fisher ’78.

2009 Nicole Picotte Smith writes: “This past August, I married Kyle Smith at my parent’s house in Dorset, VT. Our wedding photographer, Barrie Fisher ’78, was actually a photography teacher for four years at Berkshire School, which we all thought was awesome. Small world.”

Kristin Wolfe Matthews writes: “On September 3, on the beach in Parrsboro, Nova Scotia I said ’I do’ to my best friend, Alexander Matthews. We currently live in Parrsboro with our two fur babies, Kasey and Zaba.”

Kristin Wolfe Matthews ’09 and husband, Alexander

Celebrating the marriage of Amanda Wheeler Ekster ’97 to Chris Ekster on September 30, 2016 at Kontokosta Winery, surrounded by Berkshire alumni and friends. From left: Julie Rubinstein Bronder ’97, Kristina Thaute Miller ’97, Jason King ’98, Leah Paine Clark ’95, Jennifer Wheeler Del Vaglio ’95, Amanda Wheeler Ekster ’97, Trey Simpson ’02, Marjorie Simpson ’10, Davis Anderson ’68, and Annie Chase Redman (daughter of former faculty Arthur Chase) Class Notes Edition • Winter 2017

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Class Notes

Bird in Atlanta, GA. If anyone’s in the neighborhood, let me know!”

2002

15 th

Jaclyn Brander Marshall jbrander@gmail.com Matthew P. Sposito Matthew.sposito@gmail.com

Michael Gutenplan ’99 with Colin Ward ’98

2000 Brooke Beebe Noble brookebeebe@gmail.com

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Chris Ditch writes: “My wife and I welcomed our third child on Leap Day this year and moved to a new home on Maryland’s eastern shore in March. We signed the closing papers at the hospital. Our oldest, Mason, is five, Payton is three, and Logan is almost nine months. I continue to try and use what I learned under the Mountain and at college to try and grow my sign and graphics business.” Alex Shuman writes: “I’m currently working at the Taft School in lovely Watertown, CT, teaching history and coaching football. We played Berkshire this fall and I only felt slightly guilty winning 47-7. I came across Max Bogue’s senior prank video on YouTube a few weeks ago and it brought back some great memories—mainly. Do the kids still listen to Rage Against The Machine? See you all at our 20th reunion!”

2001 Shannon M. Flynn flynnshannonm@gmail.com

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Phil Sandick writes: “I finished a clerkship with U.S. District Judge Amy Totenberg and am now an environmental lawyer at Alston & 10

Berkshire Bulletin

Adam Session writes: “After earning my Ph.D. from UC Berkeley last year, I published my first authored publication in Nature.” You can find it at: www.nature.com.

2006

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Courtney J. Kollmer Courtney.j.kollmer@pwc.con

2003

Emily K. Lichtenberg emily.k.lichtenberg@gmail.com

Jane Walker Blake janewblake@gmail.com

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Caitlyn Porto writes: “Greetings from Greenpoint, Brooklyn, NY! After an eightyear stint running the family trucking business in upstate New York, I have been living in the city for a full year now pursuing my real estate career with Town Residential and enjoying catching up with old friends, many from Berkshire!”

Stephen W. Piatelli steve.piatelli@gmail.com

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Chris Garis writes: “I have just returned from Tangier, Morocco, where I spent a year and a half working as an interior designer. I have moved to Washington, CT to work with photographer and furniture designer Gerald Incandela. Should anyone be in the area, don’t hesitate to send an email: Christopher.B.Garis@gmail.com.” Marjorie Crowley writes: I’m working at Alucia Productions, a nonprofit oceanographic production company based in New York City. I’m incredibly proud of the work we have been doing, including most recently working on Leonardo DiCaprio’s new climate change documentary, Before the Flood, for which I received my first Associate Producer credit.”

Caitlyn Porto ’03 in Brooklyn, NY

2005 Matthew G. Crowson matthew.g.crowson@gmail.com Ryan Farrell mryanfarrell@gmail.com

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Gabriel Geisler Mesevage writes: “I received my Ph.D. in Economic History from the Graduate Institute, Geneva, Switzerland in fall 2016 Suma Cum Laude. I have a fellowship at Oxford University.

Tommy Kaier writes: “While living in New York City, I produced a movie called Don’t Worry Baby. The Berkshire International Film Festival screened the film and John Beebe hosted the fête. Thank you! Having had a modest theatrical release, the movie is now available on Netflix so check it out. I still receive group chats from John, as well as Chris Drake, Ben Weil, and Evan Powell. I’m currently working for fellow Berkshire grad, Ken Halsband ’84, at Relativity Media in Los Angeles, CA. When not getting Ken coffee, I am surfing somewhere in the Pacific.”


Class Notes

Births Nicole Fusaro O’Reilly ’92 and her husband are excited to announce the birth of their first child, Brendan Finnian, “Finn.” He was a whopping 9 lbs 1 oz and 20 3/4 inches. He is a super sweet baby and they are so grateful for this blessing.

Van Johnstone ’79 and his wife, Jeanne, became proud grandparents to Vanderburgh “Van”Johnstone V on August 18. Van weighed in at 8 lbs 10 oz. He is residing in Scottsdale, AZ with his father Van IV, and mother, Candace.

Emily Bean Livezey ’02 and her husband, Rawson Livezey, welcomed their first child, Finley Hollis Livezey, on September 7, 2016.

1997

Kirven Blount ’86 and his wife, Emily, celebrated the birth of Amos on October 6.

Tom Hunt writes: “My wife, Julie and I welcomed a wonderful baby boy (and possibly future Bear which would be a third generation for the family) Lincoln Kellogg Hunt on November 19. Lincoln can’t wait for his first visit under the Mountain. He looks forward to seeing my classmates at our 20th reunion (wow, has it been 20 years already) in June.”

Hilary Day Calton ’03 and her husband, Bill, welcomed their son, Liam Henry, on June 29, 2016.

2003 Hilary Day Calton writes: “I wanted to send in a quick update from us here in Highlands Ranch, CO. There have been a lot of wonderful life changes for me. On June 29, 2016 my husband, Bill, and I welcomed our son, Liam Henry Calton, into the world. He is the happiest and sweetest baby ever, and already sleeping 12 hours a night. Brooke (9) absolutely loves being a big sister. We also moved into a new house, but stayed in the Highlands Ranch community. Bill is taking on new ventures at work as one of Comcast’s top vice presidents, and I am enjoying every moment of being able to be a stay-at-home mommy.”

1998

Kristina Laskovski McElhinney ’98 and her husband, Brian, welcomed their third daughter, Fiona Marie McElhinney.

Kristina Laskovski McElhinney writes: “I am thrilled to share that two weeks after finishing my Palliative Care fellowship at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital, we welcomed our third daughter Fiona Marie McElhinney. She was born on the autumn equinox, September 22, and is thriving.”

Former Faculty Former faculty Dana Currier and husband Baker Franke celebrated the birth of their second son, Nathan William Franke, on August 17. Dana’s late father and brother are Berkshire alumni, Chet Currier ’62 and Craig Currier ’01. Benjamin, twoand-a-half years old, is a proud older brother. Class Notes Edition • Winter 2017

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Class Notes

Lauren Ginsberg writes: “I became engaged to my long-time boyfriend, Albert Dunn, this November while vacationing in the Caribbean. We are planning our wedding for next year.”

2007

10 th

Casey A. Larkins casey.larkins@gmail.com Allison A. Letourneau letourneau.allison@gmail.com

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John Diebold writes: “I recently joined Madeira Global, a leading advisory and analysis firm dedicated to ESG research and reporting. I am excited to be working in the growing field of impact investing and hope to someday use my professional skills to further enrich the Berkshire community! I can’t believe it’s almost time for our 10-year reunion— see you soon, Class of 2007!”

2008 Christopher J. Buonomo cjbuonomo@gmail.com Melissa M. Fogarty Mmfoga08@gmail.com Erica Ginsberg Murphy eginzie@gmail.com Abigail I. Tufts abigail.tufts@gmail.com

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Kayla Arsenie writes: “All is well in Denver, CO—enjoying the mountains, the Broncos and getting ready for snow! I recently became engaged and will be getting married in September 2017. I have yet to bring my better half to visit under the Mountain, but cannot wait to make that trip with him soon. I send my best to everyone at Berkshire. Go Bears!”

REUNION 2017 JUNE 9-11

Welcoming back ’2s and ’7s!

12

Berkshire Bulletin

Kayla Arsenie ’08 with fiancé, Garrett

2009 Gregory T. Piatelli gpiatelli@gmail.com Molly L. Ryan mollyryan1024@yahoo.com

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Jon Or writes: “After Berkshire, I spent five years at Michigan and completed my undergrad and master’s degrees in industrial engineering. It was an amazing time at Michigan, except for the winter (only wish Jim Harbaugh was our football coach when I was there)! After Michigan, I moved to San Francisco, CA to work for SanDisk in its Operations Rotation Program. It was a very rewarding experience to live in the heart of Silicon Valley, where I had the opportunity to meet people from all over the world in all different kinds of professions. After just shy of two years at SanDisk, I decided to leave the States and continue my career. In June 2016, I moved to the tiny European country of Luxembourg—a country with only 550,000 people, 45% of which are not Luxembourgish. This was a very big change for me, especially since I have never lived in a country where I do not speak the language (in Luxembourg, that is French, German, and, believe it or

not, Luxembourgish). It’s been five short months since I’ve moved here, and while I do miss the sunny Californian weather, I have to say it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It’s surprising how much you learn in a very short time just by living in a foreign place. Now, I am working for Amazon out of its European headquarters in Luxembourg as a Program Manager to help develop our own logistics and transportation capabilities across Europe. I hope anyone who reads this will consider stepping out of your comfort zone by moving to a different country for a personal and career adventure. I recommend everyone give it a try!”

2010 Christopher B. Landry landrycb@gmail.com Shannon E. Nelson Senelson913@gmail.com

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Andrew Borts writes: “After two years working at UBS in Manhattan, NY, I enrolled at Nova School of Business and Economics in Lisbon, Portugal for my masters of finance degree. After Nova I will pursue a career in the Asset Management industry in London.”


Class Notes

Jack Lee writes: “I have started a GoFundMe page in order to raise money for my athletic endeavors as a snowboarder. I have a good shot at making the U.S. Snowboard Team this year, but I need help getting to the qualifying event. The link to my page is: https://www.gofundme.com/revolutiontour-snowboard-athlete-2vzkqyz8. All the help I can get is greatly appreciated. Thanks!”

2012

5 th

Juliet E. Shatkin jes714@nyu.edu

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2013’ers Rhi Vanderbeek, Maddie Bricken, Christina Cohen, and Hattie Waldron enjoying the High Line over the summer—Go Bears!

locating to Charlotte, NC in June working for Wells Fargo (Sales & Trading).” Chase Gerber writes: “I accepted a job offer as a knowledge analyst at Russell Reynolds Associates, an executive search firm in New York.”

2014 classmates studying abroad met up in Prague for the weekend! Serena Menges (Barcelona), Emily Hubbard (London), Sydney Beldock (Rome), Ali Malecka (Barcelona), Eloise Morrow (Milan)

2014 Jacob A. Grant jkgrnt12@gmail.com Sam Maher ‘12 with Deb Perkins, cofounder of Cat Perkins Shoes. Sam is the Brand Manager for the recently launched company, makers of “the world’s only stylish, interchangeable shoes.” Deb is the mother of 2014 Berkshire grads Lucia and Sam Perkins. For more information, visit www.catperkins.com.

2013 Steven H. Halperin shalperin93@gmail.com Charles G. Yorke, Jr. cgy2@mac.com

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Britt Brown writes: “Penn Womens’ Lacrosse made it to the NCAA Elite 8 and were Ivy League Champions. I will be re-

Emily M. Hubbard Emilymhubbard1@gmail.com Samuel G. Perkins Samgperkins@gmail.com

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Allie Brazo writes: “This Thanksgiving I traveled to Florence, Italy with Haley Bolton ’13. We got together for a Thanksgiving dinner with Clementina Davila Tejeida ’14 who is studying in Florence for the fall semester.”

Allie Brazo ’14 with Haley Bolton ’13 and Clementina Davila ’14 in Florence, Italy

Connect with Berkshire Class Notes Edition • Winter 2017

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Class Notes

Former Faculty Bart Elsbach writes: “The Fairgrounds project continues to pursue its mandates to preserve and improve the environmental health of the site in downtown Great Barrington, MA and to serve the community through open space, recreational, and agricultural programs. As Berkshire School continues its commitment to being a positive member of the greater Berkshire community we welcome our continued partnership as we strive to provide good things in our area. This year, we had a lovely start for our community garden with 25 raised garden plots that were tended by local families, school groups, and individuals. We hope to expand participation next year; and please visit our website to see inspiring photos of the garden as it grew this season. We again hosted many events including welcoming back Construct, a local nonprofit that helps people in need in the area find housing and other support, a festival, music events, the second annual fermentation festival, and school

Larry Rocha with Chris Googins ’16 and Sean Verrier ’16 at Saint Anselm College

group and volunteer work days as we continue to clean up and beautify the site. A major milestone was reached this year with the construction of a 500kw solar array that will provide power to the grid and service low-income housing units throughout our community. Please visit us on the web or stop by if you are driving through Great Barrington. You are always welcome.”

Sally Morgan’s book, Dances of the Heart

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Berkshire Bulletin

Sally A. Morgan writes: “ I am pleased to announce the release of my book, Dances of the Heart—Connecting With

Animals. It is available on my website at www.sallymorganpt.com or on Amazon. Former English faculty member, Jack Hornor helped with editing the book. Larry Rocha writes, “Chris Googins ’16 and Sean Verrier ’16 now play hockey for Saint Anselm College, where I am the Assistant Coach and Adjunct Professor of Economics.”


InClass Memoriam Notes

The Berkshire School community extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the following alumni and friends of the School who will be honored at our annual Service of Remembrance during Reunion Weekend in June. To send obituaries or remembrances of classmates or family members, please email bulletin@berkshireschool.org.

Parker Douglas Handy III ‘44C

Alexander Eaton Simpson ‘47

Richard S. Haenschen ‘48

Carlton “Gus” Hill, Jr. ‘49

David W. Sauer ‘54

Patrick W.E. Hodgson ‘58

David S. Eldridge ‘64

Manson C. Surdam ‘65

Murray French Lewis, Jr. ’65

Kenneth O. Friedman ‘75

William Wigton ’65, pictured here with his late roommate Murray Lewis ’65, writes: “Murray asked me to pass on the following message: ‘Goodbye to all my friends in the Berkshire community and thank you for all the memories….’” Class Notes Edition • Winter 2017

15


In Memoriam

Dick Unsworth

James D. Noyes ‘86

Peter Wadsworth ’97

James Denison Noyes grew up in Norwich, Conn., the youngest of six children. He attended local grade schools, and graduated from Berkshire School in 1986. Later that year Jimmy was diagnosed with Bi-polar Disorder. He returned home to Norwich, and despite his illness he seriously pursued his interests in photography, biking and music. He graduated from the Connecticut School of Broadcasting and then worked at the WICH radio station for several years. His fondest memories came from his biking excursions abroad, and he continued to learn as much as he could about a wide range of music genres. In 1997 Jimmy moved to northeast Massachusetts and spent the next 18 years living in both Marblehead and Rockport. He established deep roots with the community, participating in several church choirs, visiting family and pursing his passion for music. As always, he remained a positive, gentle and generous friend to all. Jimmy spent the last 16 months of his life at the Stanton Home Farm in Great Barrington, Mass., where he was surrounded by a loving ad supportive family-oriented community.

Peter Wadsworth was among those who tragically passed in the Oakland, CA warehouse fire in December. Peter was liked and admired by all who knew him. Friend and classmate Jessica Morris Noll ’97 writes: “I will remember Pete as a unique, kind, and generous human being. He always had an offbeat joke to deliver in a perfectly dry tone that begged you to guess whether he was serious or not. He was always generous – I cannot for the life of me remember a moment when he was unkind. A truly unique fellow has left the world.”
Former Berkshire faculty member Bill Gulotta remembers: “Peter had a freedom of spirit that allowed him to enjoy his friends and classmates at Berkshire. We are all deeply saddened by Peter’s sudden, tragic passing.”

Richard “Dick” P. Unsworth served as head of school from 1991 to 1996. Dick lived a life dedicated to serving others through education and social activism. An ordained minister of the United Presbyterian Church, Dick served as a chaplain at Yale University, where he met Martin Luther King, Jr., and became involved in the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. Dick taught at Dartmouth and Smith College, while also serving as chaplain at Smith. He served as Headmaster of his alma mater, Northfield Mount Hermon, and then as Berkshire’s Head of School, where he and he wife, Joy (also deceased), touched many lives.

Ted Jennings II ’48

Former Berkshire School Trustee Edward “Ted” A. Jennings II ’48 served as a trustee and a president of the Berkshire Alumni Association. His children Burr ’80, Chris ’84, and Jenny ’87 also attended Berkshire.

Alice Ehrenclou Cole ’76

Pieter M. Mulder

CHAIR, BOARD OF TRUSTEES

HEAD OF SCHOOL

Carol Visnapuu

Rob Schur

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING

DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT

Class Notes Editor: Kristina Thaute Miller ‘97 DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS

Design: Hammill Design Printing: Quality Printing Company Published by Berkshire School’s Communications and Marketing Office and Advancement Office for alumni and friends of the School.


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