BUZZER THE BROWNING SCHOOL
FALL/WINTER 2009–2010
TAKASHI MURAKAMI INSPIRES BROWNING ARTISTS
MISSION STATEMENT Founded in 1888 as a college preparatory school for boys, The Browning School continues its commitment to the goals of John A. Browning: the pursuit of academic excellence and a lifelong love of learning, the belief in the dignity of the individual, and the development of personal integrity and responsibility to the broader community. The Browning boy develops amid these values. The Browning alumnus is a good citizen, sensitive to the needs of others, and respectful of divergent yet informed opinions. He is, in the best sense of the word, a gentleman.
DIVERSITY STATEMENT The Browning School strives to create a diverse community in which all members are safe, respected, and valued. We believe that in actively promoting a diverse learning environment, we are fostering intellectual, social, and emotional growth for all. Recognizing and pursuing diversity, however, are not enough; we seek to transcend mere tolerance of differences and aspire to a celebration of the varied appearances, abilities, perspectives, and values that characterize our community.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2009–2010 James S. Chanos, President Samuel J. Weinhoff, Vice President Lois L. Hutzler, Secretary R. Thomas Herman ’64, Assistant Secretary Thomas S. Hexner, Treasurer Richard L. N. Weaver ’75, Assistant Treasurer Juan D. Reyes, III ’86, President, Alumni Association Christine A. Lambiris, President, Parents Association Susan A. Grimbilas, First Vice President, Parents Association Stephen M. Clement, III, Headmaster
Contents
FALL/WINTER 2009–2010
Mildred J. Berendsen, Honorary Trustee Marita F. Altman Mark P. Boisi Keith F. Barket Allan L. Gropper Celeste A. Guth William L. Jacob III Susan R. Kessler William S. Kingson Patricia S. Langton Wendy F. Levey Jeffrey S. Olsen Michael H. Perskin, M.D. Othon A. Prounis ’79 Michael L. Rankowitz W. Tucker York, Jr.
BUZZER STAFF Stephen M. Clement, III, Headmaster Martin T. Haase, Director of Development Mary A. Horenkamp, Director of Publications Lois L. Hutzler, Copy Editor Laura E. Neller, Director of Alumni Affairs
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DEPARTMENTS
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The Yankee Victory Parade! The 2009 Common Book Faculty Articles 13 13 14 15 16
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Alison Gilpin Elizabeth Suárez Kevin Lane Dearinger Sabrina B. Youry James R. Langworthy
Field Trips 2009 Browning College Trip Browning Reads!
The BUZZER is published three times a year by the Browning School Development Office. The School may be reached at 212 838 6280. The Web site is www.browning.edu.
The Browning School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sexual orientation, religion, or national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic and other school directed programs, or employment practices.
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FEATURES
Cover: “Flower Ball” by Takashi Murakami; drawn and painted by Upper School drawing and painting classes.
Contributing photographers: Christine Bramble, Allison Gilpin, Mary Horenkamp, Courtney Lawsing, Jenna Montemayor, Sarah Murphy, Laura Neller, Sanford Pelz ’71, Carrie Smith, and Marty Hyman Photography
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the buzzer is printed on paper containing 10% total recycled fiber
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Contributors Letter from the Headmaster Local Buzz Athletics Alumni News Class Notes
Contributors Kevin L. Dearinger Middle and Upper School English
Allison H. Gilpin Grade Two
Jacqueline F. Grant Assistant to the Division Heads
Michael E. Ingrisani Dean of Faculty; Chair, English Department; Middle and Upper School English
James R. Langworthy Chair, Department of Classics; Middle and Upper School Latin
O. Michael Klein Middle and Upper School Mathematics
Sarah A. Murphy Head Librarian
Laura E. Neller Director of Alumni Affairs
Sanford M. Pelz Director of College Guidance; Director of Computer Services
Elizabeth Suárez Middle School Latin; Middle and Upper School Spanish
Andrew H. West ’92 Director of Athletics
Sabrina B. Youry Pre-Primary Associate
Nicolas Perkin ’89
Berk Sonmez ’03
Nicholas M. Stieg ’11
Alex Vadukul ’07
From the Headmaster C
ome hear the music which rings as a hope to the nations! Hand chimes, strings, bells, trumpets, guitars, and of course the greatest instrument of all: the human voice. Come hear the music which
rings as a hope to the nations. We are infused, and enthused, with the music of the season. Boys to men, sopranos to basses, angel choirs to doo-wop octets, we relish the joy and creativity and complexity of the human spirit. Thank you especially, Ms. Warner and Mr. Prestigiacomo. At Browning, music is not a once-a-year show for the parents, but a key part of our identity day after day. It is an essential part of our wonderful boys school story. “Music which rings as a hope to the nations. . . .” But what about hope? Where is hope these cold, dark, short days? Our nation is gripped in conflict, and the health care compromise that offers a glimmer of hope seems about to be extinguished. Our country’s troop buildup in Afghanistan, which was presented with a specific timeline for withdrawal, takes on an endless and ominous quality. Unemployment stalks too many Americans, including members of our own community. What about hope? One of the most powerful books I have encountered this year is The Age of the Unthinkable by Joshua Cooper Ramo, a scholar of geopolitics who urges us to explore new ways of thinking. For example: “Why not look at U.S.–Chinese relations as a mesh to be shaped and managed. . . . What about working with China in dozens of areas more assiduously, instead of concentrating 90% of our effort on issues we disagree on?” In foreign policy Ramo urges us to be gardeners, not architects, to encourage but not impose. He exhorts us to discover within ourselves “a new sort of patience: at the times we’re most scared we’ll need to replace the habit of striking back with new efforts to connect to the world instead of alienating it and isolating ourselves.” I had the privilege of leading a discussion of Ramo’s book for a group of school heads: eight boarding schools and eight day schools. Although opinions were mixed, we came to agreement in one crucial area: we are fortunate to work with children, and we have faith in their abilities to cope creatively with the future. We teach because we hope. Music as hope to the nations . . . and to the Browning School. I am hopeful because of what I see daily through student initiative. Our boys have started the Peer Tutors program, where older boys work with younger boys in areas they need help. Our Peer Leaders are Form VI boys who have been trained to work with younger boys on issues of peer pressure and drug and alcohol abuse. One of our newest programs is Book Brothers, where boys get together and read. And ask any Pre-Primary boy who his Fourth Grade buddy is, and he’ll answer with eagerness and pride. Hope . . . matched by good deeds. Alexander Pope, 18th-century English poet and translator of Homer, cautioned us not to trumpet our good deeds. Do good by stealth And blush to find it fame In other words, be quiet about your good works, and be embarrassed if you get too much credit. Especially in this season, your mitzvah, your good deeds and kind acts, are important. Be a secret Santa. Practice random acts of kindness. Sing songs of joy. Music as hope to the nations. So: “On with the music!”
Stephen M. Clement, III Headmaster
The Local Buzz 2ND ANNUAL KEW FOREST GRASS COURT INVITATIONAL
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he 2nd Annual Kew-Forest Grass Court Invitational Tournament was hosted at the venerable Westside
Tennis Club, in Forest Hills, Queens, on October 4. Conceived by Browning alumnus Steve Schott ’72, whose daughter attends the Kew-Forest school, this tournament invites varsity and junior varsity players from independent schools to play together on the famous grass courts at the club. Tres vite!
The weather cooperated for a warm, sunny day. The format was random doubles, and three Browning players
MONSIEUR BERNARD SPOTTED AT THE ING NEW YORK MARATHON!
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his year, M. Bernard ran his 15th ING New York Marathon with a time of 3:14. He was seen by several members of
Browning’s faculty from various points along the marathon route. Ms. Suarez: 77th Street and First Avenue. Ms. Resika: Fifth Ave between 137th and 138th Sts. “He seemed to be running effortlessly at mile 21 in Harlem.” Ms. Ryan: 65th Street and First. “He was running faster than I typically drive my car. By the time I got out the three syllables of ‘Dominique,’ he had come and gone!”
participated: Jacob Frisch ’15, Andrew Chanos ’11, and Jason Bader ’11, along with players from Kew-Forest, Spence, and Trinity schools, among others. Both Andrew and Jason played on the varsity team last season. Jacob won the junior varsity bracket and Jason won the varsity bracket. They earned engraved silver plates for their efforts, and enjoyed the experience of playing on the grass courts. I —O. Michael Klein, Middle and Upper School Mathematics
Ms. Bramble: 80th Street and First Avenue.
M. Bernard was also spotted by Mr. Cantwell, Mr. Reynolds, and Ms. Jackson. He said it was a great marathon and he even saw Mayor Bloomberg at the start! His preparation includes a minimum of 40 miles per week for 16 weeks, and three or four long runs of 18 to 20 miles during the three months preceding the race. Interval training once a week involving bursts of high intensity work helps boost performance. Tapering down adequately three weeks before the race and listening to one’s body are crucial to avoiding injury. I
Jacob Frisch ’15, Andrew Chanos ’11, and Jason Bader ’11.
THE CHARLES W. COOK ’38 MEMORIAL EVENT
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he life and career of Charles W. Cook, Browning’s fourth
former colleagues. He noted the difficult times during which Mr. Cook led the school, remarked on his staying power, and called him “an inspiration.” Speaking most personally, of course, was John Cook ’71 “For
and longest-serving headmaster, were remembered by a
panel of speakers on September 21, 2009, at the school on 62nd Street where he spent six decades as student, teacher, and administrator. Headmaster Clement welcomed an audience of a hundred of his predecessor’s family, friends, fellow alumni, and
most everyone here, he is Mr. Cook. Well, he certainly was never that in my life, so tonight I’ll talk about Dad.” He introduced the Cook grandchildren, Justin, Stephen, Diana, and Charlie, and spoke of his father’s devotion to his schools, Browning and Princeton, his friends, and most of all, to his family. Tom Herman ’64 spoke of Cook’s dynamic personality, recalling “his booming laugh and the warm glow of his friendship.” As a teacher, “he could be tough and demanding. He pushed you beyond your comfort zone.” “Mr. Cook took a personal interest in each and every student. He challenged each student to do his best,” said Charles Plohn ’62. “[His] legacy will live forever at the Browning School and in the hearts and minds of all Browning students, faculty members, and parents who ever came in contact with him.” Tom Oliphant ’63, remembering his early
The Cook grandchildren with John Cook ’71 (far right) pictured under the portrait of Charles W. Cook ’38 (painted by Daniel E. Greene and a gift of Charles Plohn, Jr ’62).
years at Browning, spoke of the monthly meetings he had with the headmaster, who told him, “Just do the work and the fun stuff will follow,” advice he has never forgotten. “His love for Browning and his commitment to the education of young men were evident to us all,” added Dean of Faculty Michael Ingrisani, “and we remember him fondly for what he gave to the school for all those years.” At the reception that followed, members of the audience joined the Cook family and the featured speakers to share favorite stories about Charles W. Cook and the impact he had on those who knew him. I
Headmaster Clement welcomes the audience.
WELCOME, NEW FACES! Rachel Gerber, Grades One and Two Where were you born and where did you grow up? Born in New Haven, CT; grew up in Cheshire, CT. Where did you attend college/ graduate school? Undergraduate: Hamilton College; Graduate School: NYU. Where did you work before coming to Browning? Ethical Culture School What drew you to Browning? The opportunity to work in both the 1st and 2nd grades. What are your first impressions of Browning? Such a tight, supportive community among the staff/ administration. The students are proud and enthusiastic. What are your hobbies outside of school? Ashtanga yoga, painting, playing with my dog, travel, cleaning!
Jackie Grant, Assistant to the Division Heads Where were you born and where did you grow up? Born and raised in Mendham, NJ. Where did you attend college/ graduate school? Went to Trinity College in Hartford, CT, and am currently working on my master’s in childhood education at Hunter College. Where did you work before coming to Browning? The New York Observer newspaper. What drew you to Browning? My goal is eventually to teach, but I jumped at the opportunity to get involved in education at any level, so I was thrilled to come to Browning as assistant to the Division Heads. I loved the small size of Browning and the fact that it is an all boys school— coming from a heavily female dominated family I thought it would be a very interesting experience for me! What are your first impressions of Browning? I was struck by how friendly the faculty and staff were, and what a happy, cooperative environment there seemed to be here. This is still the case, maybe even more so than I originally thought. I love that even the boys seem happy to be here! I am so excited to be a part of such a positive place. What are your hobbies outside of school? Yoga, cooking, reading, going to the beach, and traveling.
Gwyn Hervochon, Library Assistant Where were you born and where did you grow up? I was born in Westwood NJ. My family moved to Damariscotta, Maine when I was four and I lived there until I went away to college. Where did you attend college/graduate school? I received my B.A. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and am currently finishing my master’s degree in library science at the Palmer School of Long Island University. Where did you work before coming to Browning? This is my first position in a school library! My background is in theatre. What drew you to Browning? I have worked with Ms. Murphy in the past and she has always spoken highly of the Browning School. When I learned of the open position of library assistant I was very eager to apply. What are your first impressions of Browning? I have been so happy to find Browning an extremely polite and respectful environment in which to work. The dedication and enthusiasm of the faculty and staff were immediately apparent to me, and it appears that there is a great deal of mutual trust between the boys and their teachers. What are your hobbies outside of school? Tennis, listening to records, acting, reading!, visiting museums, traveling, and generally exploring as much as I can.
Katerina Lanfranco, Art Where did you grow up? I grew up in Toronto, Ontario; Berlin, Germany; and Bangalore, India Where did you attend college/graduate school? I attended undergraduate at the University of California, Santa Cruz, and then moved here to attend Hunter College. Where did you work before coming to Browning? Before coming to Browning I worked at Fordham University and as a teaching artist through Studio in a School. What drew you to Browning? I was drawn to Browning for a chance to expand my teaching experience, and to work at an outstanding educational institution. What are your first impressions of Browning? My first impressions of Browning were very positive and continue to be so. I enjoy working with the students ranging from Pre-Primary to Form VI.
What are your hobbies outside of school? Outside of school, I make art and spend time visiting cultural institutions such as art museums.
Kaitlin Rorick, Grade Three Where were you born and where did you grow up? I was born in Manhattan and grew up in New Canaan, CT. Where did you attend college/graduate school? I attended Boston College and completed my graduate degree at DePaul University. Where did you work before coming to Browning? Before coming to Browning, I taught third grade at Crow Island Elementary School in Winnetka, IL. What drew you to Browning? I was very interested in Browning’s mission. I knew that I wanted to be a part of a school that strives for academic excellence and emphasizes good citizenship.
What are your first impressions of Browning? Browning has such a warm and supportive environment, both for the students and faculty. I am also very impressed by the Browning gentlemen—they are the most well-mannered, courteous, and bright young men I have ever met! What are your hobbies outside of school? I do a lot of baking and cooking. I knit during the winter, and I love a good hike during the warmer months when I have access to trails. I
NYSAIS EVALUATION COMMITTEE
I
had the privilege of serving on a NYSAIS Evaluation
Committee from October 25 through 28. As a part of a
19-member team, including faculty, division heads, department heads, and heads of school, I spent four days evaluating the Horace Mann School in Riverdale, NY, during its process for re-accreditation. I recall that Browning had just gone through this
What are your first impressions of Browning? When I interviewed, I noticed how cheerful the students and faculty were. Everyone was so happy to be here that it made me want to be a part of this community.
process during my first year here.
What are your hobbies outside of school? Outside of school I enjoy baking, reading, and running.
yet of course it does not compare to the actual experience.
I had a slight notion of what to expect, having sought the advice of colleagues who had previously served on committees,
Simultaneously, it was one of the most exhausting and the most professionally rewarding experiences of my teaching career.
Stephanie E. Seto, Lower and Middle School Science Where were you born and where did you grow up? I was born in Ohio and grew up in a number of places: Ohio, California, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Michigan. Where did you attend college/graduate school? I went to the University of Michigan for undergraduate and Columbia University for graduate school.
Reflecting, I remember focusing on the areas of the school’s selfstudy I had been assigned, (the mathematics department was only one of five), while absorbing the comments and advice of the committee chair and his three co-chairs. Days were spent observing and meeting with faculty and staff; nights were spent writing and reading aloud for input. We attended a voluntary all-school meeting on Wednesday
Where did you work before coming to Browning? Before Browning, I was finishing up classes at Columbia and volunteering at the American Museum of Natural History's Discovery Room.
afternoon. Nervous about the reaction, the committee gave
What drew you to Browning? During my first visits to Browning, I felt welcome and comfortable. Everyone was so friendly and open! The first Browning community members that I met, Ms. Laurie Gruhn and Mr. Sam Keany, were big influences; they gave such a wonderful impression of the people who are part of this community. Also, the value that Browning puts on science education, partly shown by providing the Lower School with such a wonderful science lab, attracted me to Browning.
begin a teaching career six years ago was reaffirmed by the
commendations and recommendations, which were well received. Lasting connections were made, and my decision to
collaboration, support, and professionalism of the other committee members. I —O. Michael Klein, Middle and Upper School Mathematics
Special thanks to Christine Bramble, Allison Gilpin, Courtney Lawsing, Jenna Montemayor, Sarah Murphy, and Carrie Smith for the photographs.
The Yankee Victory Parade!
The 2009 Common Book THE ABSOLUTELY TRUE DIARY OF A PART-TIME INDIAN BY SHERMAN ALEXIE By Sarah A. Murphy, Head Librarian
resources as essential to 21st-century learning. (And I could not
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be more pleased with the technological advances we’ve made in
embers of the Browning community recently had the opportunity to attend Selected Shorts with Sherman Alexie at Symphony Space. Actors B.D. Wong and
David Strathairn read stories from Alexie’s newest book, War Dances, and Alexie spoke in conversation with author Rick Moody. The setting was simple—blank stage, a few stools, a vase of flowers—and the lighting was low. Hundreds of people sat in the dark and listened to stories unfold; sentence by sentence, tiny worlds were created and changed, then destroyed and rebuilt as the actors interpreted Alexie’s words. Alexie spoke about Selected Shorts as an experience that “cannot be replicated in digital form.” Nothing on the Internet could replicate the palpable silence that took the place of audience laughter, coughing, and rustling when the stories suddenly turned and became something new. No eBook could provide the experience of listening together to a story, realizing how the story’s meaning changes based on who’s reading it and on who’s listening. Nostalgia is a common theme in Alexie’s work, and he is nostalgic for face-to-face encounters and shared experiences. Like The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, his latest work deals with loss and change. Alexie says that War Dances is about death—
the death of his father, the death of the newspaper industry, the death of Native culture, the death of the printed word. At Browning, most of us are inclined to think about the growth of technology, Web 2.0, and the resulting availability of
the library this year!) But like Selected Shorts, there are some Browning experiences that cannot be rendered digitally, and the Common Book project is one of them. A volunteer faculty committee began meeting late last winter to choose the 2009 Common Book. Our goal was to select a book with broad appeal among students entering Forms II–VI. To satisfy a discerning faculty and student body, the book would be skillfully written and deal with themes or topics relevant to Browning’s curriculum. In order to be a successful Common Book, it would also have to be something that people would actually read. There has traditionally been no formal evaluation of boys’ Common Book experience, and as summers are full of required class reading, internships, jobs, and vacations, we had to consider just why the students would read a book that we picked out. Many students were candid about the fact that the Common Book was not high on their summer priority list. To achieve the desired outcome—engaging the entire community in the shared activity of reading one book—we knew that we had to choose something that would be pleasurable, and maybe even fun. By the time a boy enters Form II, reading for pleasure for many is at best a rare activity. But those of us who know the satisfaction of a great read are always looking for ways to share that experience. To provide our students with some pleasure reading that would also serve their curricular endeavors was a compelling—though not an easily met—challenge for the Common Book committee.
Pictured at left, above, and on the following page: Posters in the library with student comments.
Why this book? The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is a young
the YA fiction is phenomenal: tight, provocative, full of rich and
adult novel inspired by autobiographical events. The diary
compelling characters struggling with problems similar to those
belongs to Arnold Spirit, Jr, teenage member of the Spokane tribe
that our students face. We hate to see good storytelling fail to
of Indians who, like Alexie, transfers to a high school off the
reach the minds of adults and older teens, and we thought that
Reservation. “Junior” on the rez and “Arnold” at Readron High,
choosing a YA book would highlight the genre, while proving to
Alexie’s protagonist faces resentment from his former classmates
be a great read for all ages.
and hostility from his new ones. Part-Time Indian won the 2007 National Book Award for
Ms. Levine and I believed that Part-Time Indian represented the best of the best of young adult fiction. We found it funny,
Young People’s Literature, and it was very much on the radar of
moving, and relevant, and felt that it explored important social
Browning’s librarians. Susan Levine and I came to the committee
issues without being heavy handed. It’s short, quickly read, and
advocating for a young adult (or YA in librarianese) novel for the
it has wide appeal to many ages. We loved the illustrations—
common book choice. Just as adult fiction ranges from trashy to
Junior is an aspiring cartoonist, and his diary is peppered with
transformative, YA literature comes in all varieties. The best of
drawings—and the forthright, slightly irreverent tone.
remainder of each poster contains student and teacher responses. In this manner, we have held on ongoing conversation about the book all trimester. Responses are anonymous, and range from a word or two to full paragraphs. Entire conversations, almost arguments, have broken out on these posters. Answers to the question “What is Part-Time Indian about?” included: “The life of a genius and how one mind can change your look on the world” “Being a teen and dealing with teen problems” “How to survive and put a funny spin on painful reality” “Enjoying life” “Survival of a hard worker. Opportunity.”
Opinions varied on the subject of whether the book’s tone was angry. Some felt that Junior’s survival and success made the overall tone optimistic, while others thought that it was “sad,” and that it revealed “the cruel things of life that not many of us see.” One student felt that “Junior is angry at society and mad The committee was not easily sold on the book. Some members were reluctant for the same reasons that Ms. Levine and I were enthusiastic. We worried that perhaps it was too short or too easy. Some were concerned that the pictures would convey a sense of juvenilia when what we wanted was to provide a forum for serious thought and discussion. We considered many other books, but ultimately kept coming back to Part-Time Indian. We each found something in the book to which we could relate. Whether it was the frank discussion of race, the complications of family, the death of a grandparent, the joy and
that his family meets the stereotype of Indian families.” Junior remarks towards the end of the book, “I realized that, sure, I was a Spokane Indian. I belonged to that tribe. But I also belonged to the tribe of American immigrants. And to the tribe of basketball players. And to the tribe of bookworms” (page 217). Alexie goes on to fill the page with Junior’s list of groups to which he belongs. The members of the tribe of Browning boys likely identified with at least one of Junior’s tribal affiliations, and to the list they added some of their own: “The tennis tribe”
agony of organized sports, the loss of a friend, or the courage to
“The Key Society tribe”
leave home, each of us found at least a moment when we saw
“Choctaw”
ourselves in Junior. While we could empathize with Junior, we also
“Cherokee Nation”
acknowledged that his life experiences were fundamentally
“The tribe of good friends”
different from ours and those of our students. This is the great
“I belong to the Browning tribe.”
power of literature: to let us know that we are not alone, but to
As I sat at Symphony Space with members of Form IV
remind us that the world exists far beyond the bounds of our own
listening to Sherman Alexie wax nostalgic about real and
understanding.
meaningful face-to-face interactions, I thought about the
Since September, there have been large yellow posters
Common Book. I felt lucky to be a member of the Browning tribe,
hanging all over the Browning Library. At the top of each one is a
where year after year the shared experience of reading one book
question about Part-Time Indian written in Sharpie. The
leads to just the kind of connection Alexie cherishes. I
Faculty Articles Each year the Parents Association awards stipends of $2,500 to faculty members who apply for specific projects, such as summer travel, research, or study. For the 2008–2009 school year fourteen stipends were given. Each recipient writes an article for the Buzzer about his or her project.
school encore yoga class this winter. Any Lower School boy with an interest in yoga is welcome to take the class. I would like to thank the Browning Parents Association for helping me take this course. I know that it will pay a dividend in the classroom by helping my students in so many ways. I
YOGA By Alison Gilpin, Grade Two
IN FASCINATING PERU
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By Elizabeth Suárez, Middle School Latin; Middle and Upper School Spanish
his past summer, due to the generosity of the Browning Parents Association, I was given the opportunity to attend a
class to earn my certification to teach yoga to children. I also was able to take a workshop for elementary educators about yoga in the classroom. I am thrilled that I am able to incorporate what I learned into the daily lives of my Second Grade students. Yoga may seem an unconventional subject to teach in a school, but this ancient practice does teach traditional concepts such as selfdiscipline that can help children learn. The course took place at a wonderful yoga studio for children in San Francisco, CA. It taught me creative ways to help children build confidence, trust, teamwork and concentration. The course also examined yoga techniques that help students relax and develop self-control. I have learned how to teach yoga postures in the classroom that are fun, safe, effective and engaging. As a yoga enthusiast myself, I currently use yoga or breathing exercises during transition times. I find that breaking up my class with movement is a tool that helps my students deal with restlessness and gives the boys an opportunity to take a break from academics. This in turn helps with their attention spans. This experience gave me practical and thoughtful ways of teaching my students at Browning yoga. I plan to offer an after-
P
eru has fascinated me for a long time. Its rich pre-Colombian and colonial history, breathtaking, varied geography and
heterogeneous population have been the topic of several of my classes. Hence, I am very grateful to the Parents Association for their support on my trip to Peru, which allowed me to deepen my knowledge of this beautiful country. My first stop was Lima, Peru’s vibrant, sprawling capital founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535. Soon after arriving I headed to Larco Museum, which houses a magnificent collection of pre-Colombian ceramics, gold artifacts and textiles surrounded by a lovely setting of cacti and lush vegetation. I was particularly impressed by the many highly naturalistic vessels, which portrayed rites, human faces, or typical local animals. Each one was very different to the other and time just flew by. Next day, I visited Lima’s colonial area, around the elegant Plaza Mayor. The interesting cathedral contains Francisco Pizarro’s sepulcher and carved choir stalls and paintings. The church and monastery of Saint Francis has a cloister with paintings from Ruben’s workshop. The catacombs where the vast majority of Lima’s population was buried until 1821, make it a must see. The Museum of the Inquisition served
adoration to the Incas. The use of filigree was also characteristic and the results, memorable. It should be noted that while some Europeans were hired as painters and instructors, this school had a fair number of local artists. In the fields surrounding Cuzco have survived many other examples of Incan architecture. To me, some of the most impressive ones were in Pisac and Ollantaytambo, The homes, baths and temples there are masterpieces of Inca stonework and the gorgeous natural setting only makes it more remarkable. Around Pisac, perfectly geometrical terraces used for agriculture have survived intact through the centuries. Machu Picchu
However, when it comes to Inca remains the most famous and striking sight is beyond doubt Machu Picchu. Much has
as the headquarters of the Spanish Inquisition in Peru from 1570
been hypothesized about its obscure origins. Its Hollywood-like
until it was abolished in 1820.
discovery in the 20th century and recent inclusion among the
As much as I enjoyed delving into Lima’s history and
Seven Marvels of the Modern World make it a ubiquitous poster
strolling its chic squares, I was immediately fascinated by Cuzco.
sight. Nevertheless, nothing beats observing in situ this almost
Its clear blue sky and fresh air were just what I needed. However,
magical place that leaves you filled with awe and peace.
some altitude sickness was the downside and I really had to take
You guessed right. I completely recommend a visit to Peru! I
it very easy the first day as just walking a few steps could elicit high-speed-running-like heartbeats! This charming little city is at the center of the Inca’s mythical origins and was the seat of their
STARTING A THIRD BOOK?
Empire until Pizarro moved the capital to newly founded Lima.
By Kevin Lane Dearinger, Middle and Upper School English
Several walls in town serve as a metaphor of the clash between both cultures, among them the outer walls of the Convent of Santo Domingo, which had been the Temple of the Sun or Coricancha, before the arrival of the Spaniards. The Spaniards, impressed by the solidity of Incan architecture but willing to impose their own beliefs, destroyed Incan (or native) palaces and on their still visible foundations, built their own. The Cathedral and the Church of the Compañia, both at the Plaza de Armas were astounding places to explore. I became interested in Cuzco’s School of Painting about which I knew little. A later visit to the Museum of Religious Art allowed me to learn more about that style. One of its salient features was the presence of indigenous religious forms that made Catholicism more accessible and acceptable to the locals, e.g. the Virgin Mary with a conical skirt that reproduces the shape of a mountain, an object of
A
s an English teacher at the Browning School, now for some years, it has been my pleasure and remains my joy
to teach something of the art of writing to my students. Every spring I watch the publication of The Lit with pride, as it continues to be a showcase for the amazing skills and talents of our student authors. Each year I also read and comment on hundreds of essays, stories, and poems produced by the boys in my classes in response to my assignments. I am told I spill a good deal of red ink on their pages, but I am always impressed and buoyed by what I read. I am also humbled, as the thought that most often crosses my mind is something like, “Wow, I was never this clever at his age!” or “Ouch, my imagination is a bucket of rocks next to this boy’s creative mind.” And so it is, as the saying goes, that in teaching, I am taught.
On one level, indeed, Browning has taught me to write. It
This past summer I worked for four or five hours a day,
has certainly allowed me write. I always thought that my own
trying to cobble together a very rough draft of this biography. I
literary outlet would be my poetry or short stories. I toyed with
made a three-hundred-and-fifty page start. My subject wrote
writing a novel and threatened to write a memoir. I never
nearly sixty plays and an enormous number of letters, and I am
thought I would be writing non-fiction, but the Browning
determined to write a “critical” biography, which means I am
Parents Association has been faithful and constant in
close-reading all of his plays and letters, as well as his stories and
encouraging and supporting my first two books of theatre
poems, and attempting to offer some analysis of his work in
history. My publications on Shakespearean performance and on
relation to his life and times.
the life of actress Marie Prescott were, of course, labors of love,
I am practicing what I preach. I hope that I am teaching
but the “labor” ran up some expenses, and the P.A. stepped in to
myself to be a better writer. I am grateful to the Parents
help me out.
Association.
The final preparations for Marie Prescott exhausted me, and
And, no, generous reader, I am not revealing my subject’s
I will admit that I considered calling it quits. I did not think I had
name, at least, not yet. I like the drama of withheld information,
another book in me, but after ten years of devoting my weekends
and he would approve. More to come? Oh, I do hope so! I
and vacations to research, revision, and rewriting, it seemed odd, strange, wrong, in fact, to be without a project. I have the habit of writing and enjoy it. I toyed around with three or four possible subjects for another biography and tried to move away from the
SUMMER CLASSES AT HUNTER By Sabrina B. Youry, Pre-Primary Associate
Shakespeareans. I did some preliminary research, compiled a stack of notes and outlines, considered an inter-woven triple biography, heard the wires of logic snap, and reconsidered. Well, maybe there would be no third book! Then I became aware of a name that I seemed to see everywhere I looked when I read about the American theatre of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. He was not a Shakespearean and not an actor. He was a playwright, a wildly successful playwright, but like most of the personalities in my books, a figure who has been largely forgotten over time. He traveled a good deal, he seemed to know everyone in the theatrical and social worlds of his time, he had an admirably intricate private life, and, to judge from the letters he left behind, he possessed a strength of character that was remarkable in his lifetime and remains remarkable today. I found that I admired him. As a teacher, I was moved by his early struggles; he was a bullied child who survived and thrived. He was devoted to his friends and to his writing. He was serious about his work and not about himself. His wit was quick, and his intelligence was quicker. He was never satisfied with who he was and remained more interested in who he might become.
T
hanks to the Parents Association, I was able to take two summer courses at Hunter College toward my master’s in
early childhood education. The courses were Early Childhood Curriculum: Birth through Grade 2, and Language and Literacy K through Grade 2. In addition to the benefit of completing six course credits in only one month, the classes provided another benefit: structure. Taking classes over the summer kept me in a comfortable routine and, more importantly, in teacher mode. I felt prepared and confident for the upcoming school year. The Curriculum course focused on the importance and utilization of Developmentally Appropriate Practice, or DAP. As the name implies, this practice focuses on meeting the natural cognitive, emotional, and physical abilities and needs of the child at each age milestone, rather than aggressively pushing a more academic, unnatural agenda (which many teachers mistakenly believe will accelerate learning). For young children, the biggest part of DAP is creative free play. I was surprised to learn that a young child’s ability to play creatively with other children is a better indicator of his or her future academic success than any other indicator, including vocabulary, counting skills, or
knowledge of the alphabet. Dramatic play is where children
troubling. Therefore, it would be desirable to implement some
learn to regulate themselves and to rein in their own unruly
strategies to correct the delay that puts students at a potential
minds and behavior.
disadvantage. Namely, teach the material earlier!
The Literacy class was more theory-based and focused on
With my summer stipend I signed up for a workshop at the
the beliefs and philosophies that have shaped literacy
Taft Educational Center in Watertown, Connecticut that took up
development and learning of 4- to 8-year-olds through history.
just this challenge. It was called “Pre-AP Strategies for Teaching
Special emphasis was placed on listening, speaking, reading, and
Latin in the Third Year” and focused on a methodology for
writing development across a variety of cultural and linguistic
introducing authentic Latin at an earlier stage of study. Among
communities. Addressing the literacy needs of a diverse
its goals were to teach the skill of literal translation, construct
classroom was nicely demonstrated when we went as a class to
multiple choice passages for Vergil, Caesar, and Catullus and to
observe the culturally diverse classrooms of the Rockefeller
adapt difficult passages for an intermediate Latin student. The
University Childcare Center where, at any given time, four
third year of Latin is typically one of transition from grammar to
languages might be spoken in one class.
real literature. It proceeds from Latin written by textbook editors
We discussed in depth the necessity of incorporating
to Caesar’s words as he outlined his activities in Gaul at the end
language into the classroom environment in a natural and
of his famous pro-consular command. College Board consultant
practical way. This could be as simple as labeling toy bins or
Jill Crooker, who leads the workshop, maintains that there are
providing written components to creative play (street signs in
really no remarkable third year Latin textbooks available.
the block area, checklists for games, etc.). Children will always
Therefore there is a need to come up with a variety of materials
be more eager, and natural readers when their desire to decode
to help make the step from intensive grammar study to authentic
results from wanting to understand their environment or
prose more gradual and enriching. Among the materials I am
enhance their play.
adding this year are some Roman burial inscriptions and the
Overall, it was a very enlightening and enjoyable summer. The coursework has already helped me in the
method by which they can be easily read. Crooker encourages making authentic materials available
PP-H classroom and will undoubtedly continue to serve me
to even younger learners, with appropriate adjustments. I
in my teaching career.
imagine that these initiatives could be brought into play as early
Thank you, PA! I
as possible, provided that the appropriate scaffolding is at hand. Starting with the very young, the crib could be a virtual petri dish of Vergilian learning and lore. See the Penates, the trusty and
FORTUNE FAVORS THE BALD By James R. Langworthy, Chair, Department of Classics; Middle and Upper School Latin
T
here is considerable evidence that many children will not
become acquainted with Vergil’s Aeneid until they are well
into their teens. Imagine a scary world in which the great tale of Aeneas and his vicissitudes at Troy, Carthage and the future site of Rome are not taught until the second half of high school. This bleak scenario I paint is the truth for some school communities. We, as concerned Latin teachers, find that possibility deeply
portable household gods of Troy looming over the child in the playpen. Now add perhaps a plush toy version of Juno, vengeful queen of the gods. New mothers and fathers could do worse than bringing Vergil into their child’s life right now. Introduce Rome’s little nuclear family: Aeneas, father Anchises, little Ascanius and Creusa, the abandoned wife. Then reinforce these materials with daily drill sessions. In the nursery themes from the epic are presented and become imprinted. A toddler may begin to see that the Aeneid is not merely a propaganda piece for Augustus’s new vision; nor is it a platform for Vergil to expose
trick or cause discomfort, as I had once thought, but to help students understand a passage of text. Nearly all of the questions on the Latin AP exam are passage based. Having students break up excerpts of Latin into small chunks of syntactic meaning is also one of our goals. This method is called “chunking” and is popular in many AP classrooms today. Speaking of the Latin AP Arts and Humanities Center at the Taft School in Watertown, CT.
front, it appears that Caesar is making a comeback. Did he ever leave, you ask? Well, not exactly. But he will share top billing with Vergil on the soon to be implemented new Latin AP exam. On a personal note, Caesar had a receding hairline and was prematurely bald. In addition, he was alleged to have plucked off all his body hair on a regular basis. Ironically, the Latin word caesar means a head of hair. Humanizing this man is perhaps necessary to keep students interested. What were his foibles and peccadilloes? He had a great reputation for clemency. But he was also a butcher, as one contemporary put it, having in him the villainy of 100 Mariuses (another Late Republican butcher). To
“Pre-AP Strategies for Teaching Latin in Third Year” workshop participants at the Taft Educational Center.
stimulate debate on these and other issues must be at the core of how Latin is taught today.
the history of Rome as it expanded and developed a national identity based on the slaughter of foreign nations, butchery of its neighbors and allies and, finally, the internecine murder of its own people. The Aeneid is all of these things. The ability for a child to hold these complex, opposing ideas in his/her head is crucial. But seriously, how do we make this difficult literature come alive? Start earlier and increase motivation by incorporating the parts of the poem that appeal to young people, such as the games and contests in Aeneid’s Book Five. At the workshop we also devoted some time to crafting objective multiple choice questions. Their aim is not to baffle,
I would like to thank the Parents Association cordially for making this experience possible. I
Field Trips A HALLMARK OF THE BROWNING EXPERIENCE
First Grade Queens County Farm Trip.
Second Grade Trip on the Staten Island Ferry.
Fifth Grade was accompanied by Mr. Dunham, Mr. Sheridan, and Mr. Carroll on their annual trip to Mystic, CT, on September 24 to 25. Highlights of the trip included visits to Mystic Seaport, Mystic Aquarium, and the Pequot Museum.
Sixth Grade took their annual overnight trip to Greenkill Outdoor Environmental Education Center in Huguenot, NY, on October 8 and 9. Mr. Dunham, Ms. Lien, and Ms. Bosworth joined the boys who participated in workshops on wildlife ecology and birds of prey, and also enjoyed the low ropes course and evening campfire.
Form III took its annual trip to the Pine Forest Camp in Greeley, PA, for two days of high ropes, canoeing, S’mores, and an eight-mile journey down the Delaware Rive.
The Form VI boys in Geology enjoyed the Grazin’ Angus Acres farm in Ghent, NY. The farm is modeled on Polyface Farm, featured in Michael Pollan’s The Ominvore's Dilemma.
2009 Browning College Trip BATES COLLEGE, BOWDOIN COLLEGE, COLBY COLLEGE, DARTMOUTH COLLEGE, PROVIDENCE COLLEGE, AND WHEATON COLLEGE By Sanford M. Pelz ’71, Director of College Guidance
What does “liberal arts” mean? (Not liberal and not just arts!)
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What is a “major”? A “minor”? A “Thematic Minor”? How are the
he annual Browning College Trip was the brainchild of former Upper School Head Keith W. Frome, who organized the first trip in the fall of 1994, with stops at Yale, Connecticut College, Harvard, Boston
University, and Boston College. Now considered a hallmark of the Upper School, the College Trip has ferried boys to 77 different colleges and universities in its 16-year history. The trip is a required component of Browning’s College Guidance curriculum, and its distinctive nature makes it, we believe, unique. Many schools offer their students optional tours of colleges; some have required day trips. No other school, to our knowledge, takes all of its juniors and seniors away together for three days to visit such an array of colleges and universities. The Browning College Trip serves a number of functions. First, it exposes all of the boys to a variety of post-secondary institutions: big, small; urban, rural; highly selective, not quite so selective; well-known, not quite so well-known. This helps them
various calendars (semesters, trimesters, quarters, 4-1-4, 4-4-1, Block Plan) different? The College Trip allows us to give these terms life as important factors in choosing colleges. As such, it is considered an academic field trip, similar to a museum visit by a history class. The boys learn how to visit colleges. Questions to ask, and not ask. What to look for. What to look at (bulletin boards and posters of student work). The trip also acts as an economic leveler. Visiting colleges can be an expensive and time-consuming process. Every Browning boy, however, is assured the opportunity to tour over a dozen schools over the course of his Fifth and Sixth Form years. The College Trip provides us with a unique opportunity to expose our students to the kinds of institutions where they will be continuing the education for which Browning has prepared them, while at the same time, allowing us to show off our Browning gentlemen to many of those same institutions. I
begin to frame their choices by allowing them to become familiar with the wide array of options available to them. This can be a great discussion starter as boys begin trying to decide what factors are important to them in selecting colleges. “On the College Trip, what schools did you like, and why?” Thoughtful, introspective answers to this question can be used to make sensible recommendations about additional schools to consider. In weekly College Prep meetings, I introduced the boys to jargon they will encounter during the college search process.
Adrian Muoio ’10, Anik Akhund ’10, Rawle Sterling ’10, Greg Davis ’10, Rohan Wiegoonarastra ’10, Steve Rachmoth ’11, Teddy Altman ’11, Ian Rankowitz ’11, and Peter Crisp ’10 at Colby College.
Photos of some of the colleges that Form V and VI boys visited.
Browning Reads! O
n November 13, parents, faculty, alumni, and friends of the Browning community attended the 2009 Book Fair’s Opening Night Cocktail Party. Several visiting authors signed copies of their books: Kevin Dearinger, Duff McDonald, Matteo Pericoli, Florence
Fabricant, Janeen Sarlin, Jill Bialosky, Christine Schutt, Elizabeth Mayhew, Jean Parker Phifer, Cleve Langton PP ’08, and Robert Sidorsky. The Book Fair was open to families on November 14, and to boys by grade on November 16. More visiting authors were present on that Saturday and Monday as well, including Brian Floca, Jason Chin, Rebecca Stead, Steven Kroll, and Matt De La Peña. I
Taylor Thomas ’21 with his mom, Genie Egerton-Warburton.
Daniel Westra ’17.
Director of Annual Giving Courtney Lawsing and Library Assistant Gwyn Hervochon.
L to R: Akshay Swani ’21, Preeti Swani, Danielle Clyburn-Bell, and Skylar Bell ’21.
L to R: Visiting author Cleve Langton PP ’08, Tricia Langton PP ’08, and Doreen Denton P ’10.
L to R: Stephen Fleischer '10, Ed Kent '02, Peter Allen '03, Gene Prentice '03, John Dearie '99, and Louis Lenglet '02.
Visiting Author Christine Schutt and Andy Madden '96.
L to R: Bill Reed '85, Sandy Pelz '71, Gene Prentice '03, and Visiting Author Kevin Dearinger.
L to R: Andrew Ponzo '98, Ed Kent '02, Headmaster Clement, and Lois Hutzler.
Director of College Guidance Sandy Pelz '71 and former Director of Publications Nan Lombardi.
L to R: Director of Development Martin Haase, Visiting Author Duff McDonald, and Headmaster Clement.
BREAKING NEWS! Congratulations to Terrel Phelps! He has become youngest and fastest basketball player in Browning history to reach the 1000-point milestone. Only a junior, the other two Browning Panthers hit the 1000 mark as seniors. He will be Browning’s all-time leading scorer. Terrel broke the record from the foul line in the 4th quarter versus Churchill on December 17. Browning went on to win the game by a score of 46–40.
Athletics FALL 2009 SEASON WRAP-UPS
Junior Varsity Soccer It was a very successful season for the junior varsity team.
By Andrew West ’92, Director of Athletics
I
was very happy overall with the performances of all the teams for the fall season. This was our first season participating in the New York City Division of the ISAL and we represented Browning very well. The NYC
Division is made up of the following schools: Trevor Day, Columbia Prep, Loyola, UNIS, St. Hildas, and St. Hughes, Calhoun, Dalton, and Browning. The highlight of the season was, without a doubt, the third straight championship by the Form I/II soccer team. The Panthers won the championship on a clutch goal by Alexander Makkos, with 30 seconds remaining
in regulation, to bring home the title. Go Panthers!
The boys compiled three impressive league victories and narrowly missed an ISAL playoff birth. We recorded our first victory since 2005 with a 3–2 win over rival Columbia Prep. The play of our freshmen starters (Lucas Schwartz, Zach Magill, Nick Greco, John Plenge, and Colin Carter) brings the prospect of a bright future for the JV program, while the more seasoned upperclassmen (Teddy Altman, Ben Altman-Desole, Brandon Valentin, Alejandro Morales) have raised the level of their game to the point where they will be expected to make contributions on the varsity level next season. Our players displayed a terrific work ethic, strong sportsmanship, and great team chemistry throughout the season (highlighted by the musical contributions from “DJ” Zach Magill).
Form I/II Soccer
—Coaches Sheridan and Zeuner
Our Middle School soccer team started the season with only eight returning players. It may seem like a good number of players, but most of these players were defenders. The addition of Form I players to the starting line, and their ability to learn our system quickly helped me move some experienced players into an offensive role. With a great deal of dedication and hard work, the team was able to capture the ISAL NYC Division league and playoff championships. During a season in which everyone improved, we only lost one league game and learned
Varsity Soccer The team went 5–5 for the season, missing the playoffs, coming in 4th in the league. There were only four seniors on the team—Adrian Muoio, Robert Denton, Thomas Phifer, and Nikihl Techchandani—so we should be strong next year, if everyone is fully committed. We struggled with injuries throughout the season, which hurt us down the stretch. Daighn Dunn was our top scorer with 9 goals.
how to use the size of the soccer field to our advantage. I was
—Coach Watson
very proud of all players and look forward to next season.
Varsity Cross Country
Thank you for your support. —Coach Taveras
The varsity cross country team finished up a very successful season with a hard-fought ISAL championship meet at Van Cortland Park. Browning ranked second overall, right behind
Form I/II Soccer
Junior Varsity Soccer
Front row (L to R): Juan Yanes Giugi, Jon Flinchum, Max Stacey, Jordan Greco, Alexander Makkos, Sumner Erbe, David Valentin, Brendan Walsh, and Chris Kiko. Back row (L to R): Harrison LaBranche, Alexander Wisowaty, Griffin Bassman, Caspar Boele, Henry Gans, Ben Kleinschmidt, Lorenzo Mezzatesta, Christopher Haack, Julian Kalogerakis, Arthur Elghouayel, Philip van Scheltinga, and Coach Taveras.
Front row (L to R): Ibrahima Diallo, Zachary Magil, Lucas Schwartz, Alejandro Morales, Teddy Altman, Ben Altman-Desole, Brandon Valentin, and Julian Rodriguez. Back row (L to R): Coach Sheridan, Colin Carter, Brendan Bassman, John Adam Plenge, Nicholas Grecco, James Adeleye, Brian Tudor, and Coach Zeuner. Not pictured: Clovis Ogilvie-Laing and John Scowcroft.
Varsity Soccer
Varsity Cross Country
Front row (L to R): Philip Conor, Daighn Dunn, Ian Rankowitz, Nate Montreverde, Luca Libani, Alex Bendo, Jesse Rost, Ryan Flynn, and Welf Wallace. Back row (L to R): Coach Watson, Adrian Muoio, Alex Ezratty, Terrel Phelps, Robert Denton, Michael Harley, Nick Stieg, Nikihil Teckchandani, and Thomas Phifer. Not pictured: Rex Mascheroni.
Front row (L to R): Coach Bernard, Jon Pelz, Michael Gabrellian, Brant Berrie, J.R Chansukul, and Kyle Johnson. Back row (L to R): Michele Gama Sosa, James Brisotti, David Baird, Peter Crisp, Peter Shapiro, Nicholas Hexner, Matthw Geline, and Maximillian Saint-Preux. Not pictured: Patrick Collins, Dylan Smith, Steven Kassapidis, Harrison Fields, and Gregory Belgorod.
Columbia Prep, and before LFNY. This honorable place truly
on the Browning team. All of the other boys improved their
rewards the hard work and great spirit demonstrated by each
personal records dramatically, thanks to good running conditions
boy during the entire season and also during the summer. Special
and appropriate tapering off before the championship.
mention to Michele Gama Sosa, J.R. Chansakul, David Baird, Kyle Johnson, and James Brisotti who were the top five runners
—Coach Bernard
Polo: A Lifelong Commitment By Nicholas M. Stieg ’11
I saw him one morning, practicing his mallet skills with a
W
ground mallet and began to question him. I immediately fell in
hen referring to polo, most people say that it is not a sport but lifestyle. By that they mean that when you commit to the sport, you commit your life to it. It is not
a sport that can be taken lightly. Because it requires both skill with the mallet and an innate sense of the horse, it must be practiced daily. Practicing has several aspects: one it’s that you practice your mallet skill, by working on the ground with a smaller mallet and a ball, working on ball control and hand-eye coordination. The other aspect is riding. Riding is the most difficult part of the sport. Most people think that even if they have never ridden before they pick up the sport with ease. This is not the case because the sport requires a great amount of trust between the rider and the horse. You have to learn how to ride before you can learn to play, just as you must learn to walk before you can run. In order to become good at polo you have to learn how to ride properly, and practice these skills every day in order to create a sense of absolute comfort on a horse. As my tutor always says, “practice is not what makes perfect, but instead, perfect practice makes perfect.” I began playing polo seven years ago, when I was ten. I had been riding all my life. Prior to taking up polo, I would take part in shows as a jumper. It was through my equestrian riding that I found polo. The barn that I was riding at also had polo, but I was unaware of this. One summer, I was enrolled in a “riding camp,” in which I would ride various horses every day and practice jumping. One of the other members was a young girl whose father was a world renowned polo player who happened to be playing on Long Island that summer and boarding his horses at the farm where I was learning to ride.
love with the idea of the sport. Seeing my enthusiasm, he gave me a mallet to practice my own skills. The very next day I asked the owner of the farm, who is now my coach, about his polo program. It just so happened that he had several kids who were learning to play, and he told me to come during the winter to play Arena polo. Arena, he said, was the best place to begin polo because it is a smaller playing field and not as fast. I was eager to learn, and began playing as soon as I could. After several winters of learning the game, I made my debut playing grass polo during the summer of 2004. Playing grass polo required a much greater commitment. During the winter, I could play on the weekends and not have to worry about mixing my commitment to polo with my commitment to school. The summer required me to be at the barn at 6:00 am every day to ride the horses, and I would remain there until six at night, except on the days that we would trailer the horses to games, which extended the days to as late as eleven at night. This commitment made it difficult to maintain a love for the sport because it demanded so much from me. I had no free time during the summer to see friends. I had no free time to sleep. I had no time to enjoy the luxuries that all kids look forward to with the arrival of summer. Instead I looked forward to exciting matches and improving my abilities. This does not mean that I hated my summer because I couldn’t be lazy, but rather, I looked forward to it as a time for me to grow in various aspects. My love for the sport is enduring; without it, I would not have been able to maintain such a commitment.
Nick Steig (on the left, in the white shirt and black helmet) playing at the Nick T. Aliano Annual Benefit Match; proceeds benefitted cancer research.
FOR THE NEWCOMER TO POLO From www.polo.co.uk/polo_rules.htm
The Teams • On a full-sized grass field, each team has four people. • In an enclosed arena usually played in winter, each team has three people.
The Player’s Gear • Helmet. • Long boots and knee guards to protect the legs when riding off or if hit by a mallet. • Gloves to protect the hands.
The Mallet • The bamboo mallet is about 52 inches long.
The Ground • The ground is 300 yards long, 160 yards wide if boarded. (Being boarded means the field has a 12-inch upright board bounding the perimeter.) • If the ground is unboarded, it is 200 yards wide and marked with a white line. • The goal posts, positioned at each end, are 8 yards apart.
Duration of the Play • The full game is 8 chukkas, but often in club matches 4 or 6 chukkas are played. • Each chukka is timed to last 7 minutes, then a bell is rung, but the game goes on until the ball goes out of play, or for another 30 seconds when the bell is rung again, the chukka ends where the ball is. • There are intervals of 3 minutes between chukkas and 5 mins at half time. Ends are changed at every goal scored—this has been found fairest when there is a wind.
The Ball • The wooden ball, 10 inches in circumference, is struck by the side of the mallet. • Indoor or Arena polo uses an inflated ball, which looks like a small soccer football.
The Polo Pony’s Gear • Polo is played using an English-type saddle. • Side reins are sometimes used, extended from the girth through the bridle rings to the rider’s hands to give better control—an important safety precaution when the horses are travelling at high speeds. • Leg bandages protect the lower legs of the pony, and the tail is wrapped to keep it from tangling in mallet strokes. The left side of the pony is called the near side; the right side is called the off side.
ALUMNI
Alumni Events ALUMNI COUNCIL MEETING
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n September 14, Browning’s Alumni Council held its first meeting of 2009–2010 in the Wilson Room with an
unprecedented turnout of more than 30 guests. To kick off the
ALUMNI SOCCER GAME By Berk Sonmez ’03
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n a beautiful, sunny, blue sky Friday afternoon on September 18, Browning’s Alumni and Faculty Soccer
meeting, the group listened to a technology presentation from
Team played their annual battle against the Varsity Soccer Team
Director of Technology Aaron Grill, which included a live stream
on Randall’s Island. In last year’s game, the varsity defeated the
from the U.S. Open men’s tennis final, as well as a SMART Board
alumni by scoring two goals late in the game, in which fitness -
demonstration and discussion of recent school technology
or more appropriately lack of fitness - was the cause of defeat.
initiatives. Three new members were appointed to the Alumni
However this year, the alumni and faculty team took precaution
Council: Edward D. Kent ’02, Andrew B. Sandberg ’01, and
and came out well-prepared, shocking the varsity in a 6-3 defeat.
Steven G. Schott ’72. Additionally, the group discussed an across
The alumni prevailed thanks to goals by Chris Matz ’03 and
the board increase in alumni annual fund numbers from
Martin Arnabal ’01. Berk Sonmez ’03 assisted. Daighn Dunn
2008–2009, particularly noting this year was the first time alumni
’12 scored two goals for the varsity team. Thanks to all the
donations exceeded $100,000. I
parents, faculty, students, and alumni who came out to support this annual event. We hope to see even more of you next year! I
2009–2010 ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
Congratulations to the alumni and faculty players: Martin Arnabal ’01
Officers
Albie Bramble ’04
Juan D. Reyes, III ’86, President
John Cannon ’77
Allanby Singleton-Green ’83, Vice President
Rich Fisher ’72
Joe G. Metzger ’02, Secretary
Spiros Frangos ’87
Sharif Tanamli ’87, Treasurer
Michael Klein, Faculty Courtney Lawsing, Director of Annual Giving
Council Members
Jeffrey M. Landes ’83
John B. Alfieri, Jr. ’75
Eric M. Lustgarten ’81
Lawrence W. Bahr ’96
T. Andrew Madden ’96
Michael P. Beys ’89
Nader Mobargha ’91
Jonathan A. Cohn ’01
John P. Moran, III ’97
Leon J. Dalva ’58
William T. Reed ’85
John C. Dearie ’99
Reja Sabet ’82
George Grimbilas ’80
Andrew B. Sandberg ’01
John E. Hutzler ’86
Steven G. Schott ’72
Edward D. Kent ’02
Peter G. Stavropoulos ’82
Samora Legros ’03 Robin Lewis ’05 Chris Matz ’03 Marty Murphy ’02 Alex Mykyta ’03 Gerry Protheroe, Faculty Stephan Rothe ’87 Berk Sonmez ’03 Asif Uddin ’05 Andrew West ’92
ALUMNI
Alumni returned to school on September 14 for the first Alumni Council Meeting of 2009–2010.
L to R, top row: Andrew West '92, Michael Klein, Berk Sonmez '03, Rich Fisher '72, Alex Mykyta '03, Marty Murphy '02, Chris Matz '03, Samora Legros '03, Albie Bramble '04, Robin Lewis '05, and Courtney Lawsing. L to R, bottom row: Asif Uddin '05, Gerry Protheroe, Martin Arnabal '01, John Cannon '77, and Spiros Frangos '87.
ALUMNI CHARLES W. COOK ’38 MEMORIAL EVENT
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n September 21, Browning honored the life of Headmaster Charles W. Cook ’38 with a memorial event. Student,
alumnus, teacher, administrator, parent, headmaster, and headmaster emeritus: no one in Browning’s history has had longer or deeper ties with the school. The following members of the Browning community spoke in memory of Mr. Cook in front of more than 100 people in the Lower Gym: Headmaster Stephen M. Clement, III, John C. Cook ’71, Charles J. Plohn ’62, Dean of Faculty Michael E. Ingrisani, Thomas N. Oliphant ’63, and R.
L to R: John Williams '80, George Grimbilas '80, Carla Camp, Greg Camp '80, and Tom Smith '80 at the Cook Memorial Event.
Thomas Herman ’64. Mr. Plohn, Mr. Oliphant, and Mr. Herman are all past recipients of the Class of 1938 Alumnus Achievement Award, established by the class of 1938 in honor of Mr. Cook. Additional guests included former and current faculty, past parents, alumni, and trustees. Following the speaking program, guests enjoyed a reception in the Upper Cafeteria, where archival photos of Mr. Cook were displayed. I Please see page 5 for more details and photos.
ALUMNI TENNIS EVENT
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n October 3, the 2nd Annual Alumni Tennis Event was
held at the West Side Tennis Club in Forest Hills, thanks
again to our gracious host Steve Schott ’72. Although rainy
L to R: Jim Root '71, Ralph Gardner '71, Sandy Pelz '71, and John Cook '71 at the Cook Memorial Event.
weather prevented match play on grass courts, more than 30 alumni, faculty, and friends showed up to compete indoors on clay courts, followed by an award ceremony and dinner in the clubhouse. Congratulations to the winners: Chris Jennings ’99 and Varsity Coach Michael Klein (A flight), and Nicholas Versandi ’01 and James Sterling ’88 (B flight). Congratulations also to our finalists: Jeremy Katz ’04 and David Moss ’86 (A flight), and Andy Madden ’96 and Patrick Murtaugh ’97 (B flight). More than $230 was raised from this event to benefit Browning’s varsity tennis team for the second year in a row. I L to R: Tom Oliphant '63, Tom Herman '64, and Linton Wells '63 at the Cook Memorial Event.
Alumni and faculty at the West Side Tennis Club for Browning's 2nd Annual Alumni Tennis Event.
Above (L to R): Nick Versandi '01, Chris Jennings '99, and Alex Mykyta '03 at the West Side Tennis Club.
Above (L to R): David Moss '86 and Jeremy Katz '04 competed against Chris Jennings '99 and Michael Klein in the finals of the A flight.
Below (L to R): Andy Madden '96 and Juan Reyes '86 played doubles together in one of the round robin rounds.
Below (L to R): James Sterling '88 and Steve Schott '72 during the award ceremony.
ALUMNI THIRTYSOMETHING PARTY WITH CHAPIN, ALLEN-STEVENSON, ST. BERNARD’S, AND SAINT DAVID’S
O
n October 28, Browning alumni from the classes of 1988–1998 met up with their alumni counterparts from
Chapin, Allen-Stevenson, St. Bernard’s, and Saint David’s. The reunion was held at PS 450, a restaurant and lounge located at 450 Park Avenue South. More than 100 alumni from all five schools mingled and reminisced with one another while Game 1 of the World Series played on the surrounding flat screen TVs. L to R: Chapin alumnae Holly Jordan '96 and Carolyn Davis '92 with Nader Mobargha '91 and Manoli Sakellarios '92 at the Thirtysomething Party.
The first round of drinks and appetizers were paid for by the five participating schools. We hope to see even more of you at next year’s Thirtysomething Party! I
ALUMNI COUNCIL MEETING
O
n November 9, Browning’s Alumni Council met for their second meeting of 2009–2010. The special guest was
librarian Sarah Murphy, who promoted the 2009 Book Fair and mentioned new technology initiatives in the Henry B. Martin ’24 Library. Also at this meeting, the Council decided to allocate money raised from the 2009 Alumni Tennis Event to Browning’s Varsity Tennis Team for the second year in a row. Additionally, L to R: Andrew Gamache '97, Seagram Villagomez '95, and John Ray '95 at the Thirtysomething Party.
the Council elected members to the Nominating Committee and listened to reports from the Alumnus Achievement Award Committee, Class Representative Committee, and Young Alumni Committee. Alumni were encouraged to attend the Book Fair and Holiday Party, and submit Class Notes to the Buzzer. I
YOUNG ALUMNI REUNION
O
n November 25, Browning hosted the annual Young Alumni Reunion. More than 40 young alumni from the
classes of 2004–2009 returned to school to visit with classmates, faculty, and current students. The day began with the annual Thanksgiving Assembly held at Christ Church at The November Alumni Council Meeting was held in the Wilson Room at Browning.
11:00 am, where alumni were introduced to the entire school by College Guidance Counselor Sandy Pelz ’71. Following the assembly, alumni headed back to school for a reception in the Upper Cafeteria with current faculty and Form VI. I
ALUMNI YOUNG ALUMNI REUNION
L to R: Coach Mastroianni, Dominik Davalos '08, Mike Glasser '08, and John FitzSimons '08.
L to R: Ms Suarez, Chris Brandt '09, and Ms. Neller.
L to R: Ms. Amley, Ms. Ryan, Tab McEntyre '09, Jake Ehrlich '09, and Jeff Rodriguez '09.
Special thanks to Chef Cecilie Clark for the delicious lunch for all! The following alumni attended this year’s Young Alumni Reunion: Jeremy Katz ’04 Alex Sheridan ’04 Ross Thompson ’04 Abraham Schneider ’05 Nathaniel Garcia ’06 Dominik Davalos ’08 Philip Devereux-Demetriad ’08
Charles Epstein ’08 John FitzSimons ’08 Mike Glasser ’08 Jonathan St. Firmin ’08 Anas Uddin ’08 Sean Zimmermann ’08 Chris Brandt ’09 Mike Chanos ’09 Nick Christy ’09 Grayson Cowing ’09 Barry Cregan ’09 Ben Duffy ’09 Jake Ehrlich ’09
Alex Gesswein ’09 Roger Gesswein ’09 Chris Jordan ’09 Alexander Lynn ’09 Tab McEntyre ’09 Robert O’Toole ’09 Zack Perskin ’09 Jeff Rodriguez ’09 Thaniil Theoharis ’09 Eamon Wagner ’09 Spencer Ward ’09 Sandy Pelz ’71 Andrew West ’92
ALUMNI YOUNG ALUMNI REUNION
L to R: Jeff Rodriguez '09, Tab McEntyre '09, and Headmaster Clement.
L to R: Charles Epstein '08, Sean Zimmermann '08, Jake Ehrlich '09, and Stephan Straub '10.
Alex Sheridan '04 and Marty Haase.
L to R: Thaniil Theoharis '09, Roger Gesswein '09, Coach Taveras, Nick Christy '09, and Alex Gesswein '09.
L to R: Zach Perskin '09, Alex Lynn '09, Mike Chanos '09, and Spencer Ward '09.
Abraham Schneider '05 and Ms. Muhlfeld.
ALUMNI
Class Notes To share news with Browning and your classmates, please contact Laura Neller, Director of Alumni Affairs, at 212 838 6280, x192, or via e-mail at lneller@browning.edu.
Peter P. Luce ’47 is a life trustee and honorary alumnus at Cornell College in Iowa.
1930s R. Sargent Shriver ’34 celebrated his 94th birthday in November. He will be honored at this year’s Alumni Reunion with the Class of 1938 Alumnus Achievement Award.
1950s The recently released film My One and Only, starring Renee Zellweger, is inspired by incidents in the life of actor and Hollywood icon George Hamilton ’57. In August, a screening of the film was held at a private residence in Bridgehampton,
1940s
followed by an after-party at East Hampton Mexican restaurant the Blue Parrot, of which restaurateur Andrew Chapman ’90 is a
In August, Rhode Island Senator Jack Reed wrote a piece for Forbes about the late Senator Claiborne Pell ’42 titled, “He Sent Millions of Kids to College.” According to a Washington Post
managing partner. Mr. Hamilton recently appeared as a contestant in the UK television series I’m A Celebrity…Get Me out of Here!, filmed in the Australian jungle.
article in October, President Obama aims to boost funding for Pell Grants by $40 billion. The Pell grants were named after
Thomas E. Lovejoy, III ’59 was recently appointed chair of the
Senator Pell in 1973 to provide financial aid for students
Council of Canadian Academies, a Canadian national panel
pursuing higher education. Author and filmmaker G. Wayne
tasked with reviewing the state of biodiversity research in
Miller is writing an authorized biography of the late Senator Pell
Canada. Dr. Lovejoy, who coined the term biodiversity, will lead
due to be published in late 2010. For more information about the
this panel of biodiversity experts to consider the supply of
book, please visit www.pellbook.com.
taxonomic expertise, the effect of changing technologies on the
George Hamilton ’57 and Barbara Strum at the film premiere of 2012 in Los Angeles in November.
Father Gerry Creedon and Tom Oliphant '63 (right) on PBS.
Craig Smith ’64 (far right) with his wife and children at Browning in September.
ALUMNI field, and Canada’s contribution to biodiversity research at the
Thomas N. Oliphant ’63 was featured on a PBS segment titled
international level. For more information, please visit
“Remembering Ted Kennedy’s Faith, Friendships, and
www.scienceadvice.ca/biodiversity.html. Additionally, Dr.
Persona.” Mr. Oliphant covered Mr. Kennedy for the Boston
Lovejoy recently gave the keynote address at a five-day global
Globe for four decades.
conference on forest canopy, held in Bangalore, India.
Linton B. Wells, II ’63 spoke at the Open Government and Innovations Conference in Washington in July, during a session titled “Web 2.0 and National Security.” Dr. Wells pointed out how
1960s
social networking tools are being used by organizations working in stressed environments to provide essential services to villages,
Geoffrey H. Stelling ’61 recently wrote us the following update: It’s been an exciting year for Stelling Banjo Works with the release of Steve Martin’s CD album The Crow. Steve played one of our banjos on his CD and actually mentioned it in the liner notes. It was the tune originally written as an instrumental called “Late for School,” which was given lyrics for his CD. It is the fourth tune on his CD and the longest one at a playing time of 4:48. We are currently working with Steve to acquire another Stelling banjo and hope to hear it on future recordings. Other notable bands who recently started using Stelling banjos are the Old Crow Medicine Show and the Avett Brothers. For more information, please check out www.stellingbanjo.com. I was unable to play at the first and second alumni tennis tournaments at Forest Hills these last two years, but may be able to attend next year. Another highlight in my life is that I heard from a friend and Browning classmate, Yank Brame ’62. We hope to reunite some time in the coming year.
Andrew P. Muller ’62 recently wrote to us:
global social network that uses social wikis, online photos, videos and microblogging tools like Twitter to provide organizations ways to communicate, collaborate, and engage with local populations. Two alumni are teaching seminars at Yale this semester. Howard B. Dean, III, M.D. ’66 is teaching a seminar on understanding politics and politicians. Dr. Dean, former governor of Vermont, ran for president in 2004. He is also former chairman of the Democratic National Committee. R. Thomas Herman ’64 is teaching a seminar at Yale called “The Press, Business and the Economy.” In the spring of 2010, Mr. Herman will teach a similar seminar at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism. Craig L. Smith ’64 and his wife, daughter, and son visited
Warmest greetings to all at Browning, especially those in my graduating class of June 1962, and to Francois De Menil ’63 and John Ballard ’63. And to those graduating in 2010, I wish you all the best as you continue your life’s journey in college and beyond.
Howard Dean ’66 was featured in the New York Times magazine in July.
particularly in Afghanistan. Dr. Wells founded STAR-TIDES, a
Browning in September when they were in New York on vacation. They currently live in Utah, where Mr. Smith is president of Moreton of Utah, an insurance broker.
Christopher Gray ’68 has been writing the Streetscapes column for the New York Times since 1987.
Arthur O. Sulzberger, Jr. ’70 (left) accepting an award at Gotham Hall on behalf of the New York Times Company.
ALUMNI F. Dodd Adair ’65 recently wrote to us: I was so saddened to read of Kenton Morris 65’s death last year. He had recently flown to Birmingham and we enjoyed a catch-up lunch spanning 40 years. I retired from Ingersoll-Rand (Asia-Pacific Division of the Torrington Company) 13 years ago and moved back south. My wife, Janet, and I have three children. All are happily on their own doing well. Janet and I travel for fun. Hello to all Browning friends. Class of ’65, we have done a poor job of updating news for the school and friends. Let’s challenge ourselves to do a better job. Look forward to reading about you in the next publication.
Christopher S. Gray ’68 writes a regular column in the New York Times called Streetscapes and recently referred to his walk to Browning while he was a student here.
John R. Prout ’71 recently sent us the following news: After 22 years in Europe, I am finally returning back home—or at least close enough—to the Virginia suburbs of our nation’s capital. Hoping to do some part-time pro bono work as well as improve my handicap.
Richard E. Fisher ’72 recently wrote to us: It was great getting together with Bart Wu ’72, TD Werblin ’72, Jeremy Galton ’72, and Steve Schott ’72 after the Alumni Soccer Game in September. I’m pretty sure they thought I’d show up for dinner on crutches, but the game was a lot of fun and any postgame aches and pains were eliminated by the thoughtful inclusion of cold beverages in the second cooler. I don’t get back to the city that often from North Carolina these days, but I relish seeing old friends when I have the chance.
Steven G. Schott ’72 hosted Browning’s 2nd Annual Tennis Event at the West Side Tennis Club on October 3. For more
1970s
information, please see the event write-up and photos on page
In November, Arthur O. Sulzberger, Jr. ’70 accepted an award on behalf of the New York Times Company from New York public radio station WNYC. The award was given in commemoration of the Times Co.’s stewardship of WQXR, which WNYC recently acquired from the Times Co. Also in November, Mr. Sulzberger was named a “Brave Thinker” by The Atlantic magazine for his commitment to avoiding staff cuts and expanding online presence; only 26 others (including President Obama) were selected for this distinguished list. For the full list and more detailed information, please visit http://bravethinkers.theatlantic.com.
Steven Pettinella ’73 is the chief marketing officer for Houlihan’s Restaurant Group.
30. On October 4, Mr. Schott served as event chair of the 2nd Annual Kew-Forest Grass Court Invitational Tennis Championships, also held at the West Side Tennis Club. Jacob Frisch ’15 was one of the tournament’s junior varsity winners, and Jason Bader ’11 was one of the varsity runner-ups. David G. Holleb ’73 recently sent us the following news: Our son Matthew just completed his three-month sea duty as a third classman at the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, NY. He completed four trips through the Suez Canal and travelled through the Gulf of Aden without being attacked by pirates! Our son Peter is a junior in high school and will be facing the college application process very soon. We reside in Peapack-Gladstone, NJ.
Jamie Dimon ’74, CEO of JPMorgan Chase (left) with Lloyd Blankfein, CEO of Goldman Sachs, at the White House in July. (New York Times photo.)
Jeff Sado ’76 and his son, Manny, during heir visit to Singer Castle this summer.
ALUMNI Kenneth Offit, M.D. ’73 traveled to China for the solar eclipse on
In August, Jeffrey H. Sado ’76 was published in the Thousand Islands
July 22, 2009, the longest total solar eclipse to occur in the 21st
Sun, a local newspaper in upstate New York. His article, “Magical
century and not to be surpassed until the next solar eclipse on
Mystery Tour at Singer Castle” details Mr. Sado’s trip to Commodore
June 13, 2132.
Frederick G. Bourne’s castle on Dark Island. Mr. Sado and fellow
Steven F. Pettinella ’73 recently wrote us the following update: I have returned to Houlihan’s Restaurant Group as chief marketing officer. After three months of hard strategizing, I have them on television and sales are responding. We’re looking at an aggressive integrated marketing program that includes broadcast, web and print programs. Barbara’s Decorating Den business is going strong now that it seems the recession has turned the corner. I wish everyone Happy Holidays!
Over the summer, Jamie Dimon ’74 was ranked #9 on the annual Vanity Fair 100 list—twelve spots higher than his 2008 ranking by the magazine. Vanity Fair writes that Mr. Dimon “has emerged as
Browning alum Jeffrey S. Blanchard ’77 are currently collaborating on a book about Commodore Bourne titled From Choir Boy to Singer: The Life and Times of Commodore Frederick G. Bourne (1851–1919). Randy J. Diamond ’77 visited Browning in November, where he spent time catching up with his former teacher Mike Ingrisani. Mr. Diamond’s mother worked at Browning as a receptionist while he was a student here. He currently lives in Columbus, Missouri, where he works at the University of Missouri’s Columbia Law School as the director of library and technology resources and associate legal research professor of law.
one of the most powerful bankers in the country, if not the
The 2010 New York City Michelin Guide gave one star each to
world.” In November, Mr. Dimon was ranked #30 on the Forbes
Christopher F. Cannon ’79’s restaurants Convivio and Marea, and
list of the world’s most powerful people.
two stars to Alto, Mr. Cannon’s third restaurant. For restaurateurs,
Jeremy Paul ’74 recently wrote us the following news: Laurie and I moved to a new home in West Hartford, CT, just a mile from the University of Connecticut School of Law where I remain dean. The home was once owned by Barbara Bush’s sister, and my son, Jason, now 23, is living in the addition that she built for her children. Jason just finished a stint as campaign manager for our town council Democratic slate, and is looking for work during the 2010 campaign. Our younger son, Russell, now 20, is a junior at UCONN, majoring in history. Laurie remains on the journalism faculty at Northeastern University in Boston, where she is at work on a book concerning American universities and European refugees in the period leading up to World War II.
Mr. Ingrisani and Randy Diamond ’77 at Browning in November.
getting “Michelin starred” is a career highlight, and Mr. Cannon told amNewYork, “Getting four Michelin stars in a day is pretty amazing. We’re so excited.” Marea was also voted New York’s top new restaurant by the 2010 Zagat Survey.
1980s Peter C. Lippman ’81 wrote his first book on architecture and design, due to be published in 2010 by John Wiley and Sons. Mr. Lippman is an architect with JCJ Architecture in New York.
Richard Helgason ’82 at 10 Downing Street in the UK.
Tasha and Mark Hulak ’83 have twin girls, Megan and Abigail (above).
ALUMNI Los Angeles–based actor Youssif H. Kamal ’82 appeared on the
Michael P. Beys ’89 and Nader Mobargha ’91 have started
CBS television series NCIS: Naval Criminal Investigative Service on
practicing law together. Mr. Beys is a formal federal prosecutor
October 13.
with extensive trial experience, and Mr. Mobargha is an
Richard A. Helgason ’82 delivered two presentations earlier this year in the United Kingdom at 10 Downing Street and the House of Commons. He spoke on the lessons of the Obama election. Mr. Helgason, a former chairman of the Democratic Leadership Council in New York, worked on President Obama’s campaign in 2008. Enrique Bonfils-Roberts ’83 works for UBS Wealth Management. He lives in Brooklyn with his wife, Margie, and their three children, Brandon (14), and twins Cameron (9) and Alexi (9). Mark A. Hulak ’83 and his wife, Tasha, have twin girls, Megan
experienced civil litigator who worked for over five years at the firm of Weil, Gotshal & Manges. They are focusing their practice on complex commercial litigation. In the words of Mr. Beys, “Browning lawyers of the world, unite!” Amy and Andrew Monachelli ’89 recently had a baby girl, Lauren Audrey Monachelli, born at 8:26 am on September 17, 2009, at NYU Hospital. She weighed in at 6 lbs., 12 oz. and was 20 1/4 ". Nicolas Perkin ’89 and his wife welcomed their first baby to the world on November 18, 2009. Amelie Scott Perkin was born at 7:22 am weighing in at 6 lbs., 15 oz., and 19 ¾" long. In August,
and Abigail.
Mr. Perkin was appointed by Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal Daniel T. Rencricca ’83 and his family recently moved to the Upper East Side. His daughter, Melissa, attends Sacred Heart.
to the Louisiana Innovation Council. Earlier in the summer, Mr. Perkin’s company, the Receivables Exchange, was featured in the
Constantinos Frangos ’86 lives in London with his wife, Jenny,
Louisiana Economic Quarterly. Forbes magazine calls the
and their twins, George and Elizabeth, born in 2007. Mr. Frangos
Receivables Exchange a “company to watch.” See page 47 for
works at Sotheby’s, where he is the senior director of Greek and
Mr. Perkin’s recent blog posting, marking the company’s
19th-century European Paintings.
one-year anniversary.
Spiros Frangos ’87 and his wife, Rosalia, had their second
Soly Vahabzadeh ’89 and his wife had a baby girl in August.
daughter, Arianna, born in June 2009. Dr. Frangos is an assistant professor of surgery at New York University’s
1990s
School of Medicine. Stephan E. Rothe ’87 and his wife, Denise, welcomed their second baby girl, Giselle, to their family on September 29, 2009.
Gregory C. Hewett ’93 and his wife, Katie, are the proud parents of Maya A. Hewett, born on May 26, 2009.
Lauren Monachelli at eight weeks old, daughter of Amy and Andrew Monachelli ’89.
Allyson West, daughter of Kelly and Andrew West ’92, was born in July.
Coach Taveras and Alexander Theodorou ’93 at Browning in November.
ALUMNI Alexander Theodorou ’93 visited Browning with his mother in
Philip Blake ’95 works at American Express Publishing, where
November. He is currently a pilot with SkyWest Airlines and is
he supports and designs editorial workflow for the company’s
based in Wisconsin. He caught up with Andrew West ’92 and
three main publications: Food & Wine, Travel+Leisure, and
Coach Taveras.
Departures. Recently he was interviewed in New York magazine
Over the summer, Matthew E. Webber ’93 took a three-month tour of Bolivia, Chile, and Peru. He currently lives in Portland, OR, where he works as the outreach coordinator for the Archimedes Movement, a nonprofit organization dedicated to health care reform.
about smartphone applications. For more information, please visit www.nymag.com/shopping/features/59879/. Christopher L. McLeod ’95 is engaged to Kimberly Perkins. John J. Ray ’95 is an associate editor for Forbes magazine. Each week he writes the “S&P 500 Weekly Wrap-Up,” in addition to co-editing
David W. Eppley ’94 is currently teaching at St. Thomas Choir
“Best Brokerage Analysts” and the “Fastest Growing Technology
School, Saint David’s School, and the Joan Mitchell Foundation.
Companies.” He was also a co-editor of Forbes’s 25th annual survey of America’s largest private companies, published in October.
Lorenzo Fornari ’94 recently wrote to us: I’m currently living in Paris and working for Eutelsat since 2002 and previously for Honeywell. It’s fantastic here and I have had the chance of crossing paths with a couple of Browning classmates over the years. Drop a line if you’re in town! lorenzo.fornari@gmail.com
Roman Vail ’94 recently wrote us the following news: I have been doing really well—doing audio mastering at a great studio in DUMBO, Brooklyn. Mastering is what brings a good recording or mix to sound like an album. All polished and sounding amazing! Here’s a link to my page: www.joelambertmastering.com/romanvail.html. Our studio has been doing a lot of great projects; many of our projects go to the indie site www.pitchfork.com with great ratings, Billboard, and several of our bands have been featured in the latest "Brooklyn Calling" article (New York magazine). Any genre—rock, urban, jazz, film, R&B, and world music! On a personal note, I have a beautiful three-year-old boy (Amaelian) and have been married seven years. Alot to feel good about.
Matt Webber ’93 in Coroico, Bolivia, over the summer.
Mark Frangos ’96 and his wife welcomed the birth of their baby girl, Joanna, in December 2008. Pascal E. Salvati ’96 visited Browning in October with his girlfriend. He lives in Switzerland where he is a currency trader. While at Browning, he caught up with Headmaster Clement, Mr. Salomon, Coach Taveras, Coach Watson, and Monsieur Bernard. His brother, Christian Salvati ’93, lives in Madrid. Mr. Dearinger ran into his former student, William L. Strouse ’96, at the opening night performance of Bye, Bye, Birdie in New York in October. Will was with his father, Bye, Bye, Birdie composer Charles Strouse; his mother, Barbara; and his wife, Erin, whose brother J. Patrick Murtaugh ’97 is also a Browning alumnus. John P. Moran, III ’97 was recently featured in Crain’s and various commercial real estate publications for representing Lek Securities Corporation in their lease of the 52nd floor of One
Greg Hewett ’93 with his wife, Katie, and their daughter, Maya, in Charlottesville in July.
Lorenzo Fornari ’94 currently lives in Paris.
ALUMNI Liberty Plaza. Mr. Moran is a director at Newmark Knight Frank
dedicated corporate mentors. Bryan is co-chair of the Mentor
and continues to be an active member of the Browning Alumni
Partnership of New York’s Young Professionals Advisory Board.
Council. He also recently became a member of Northwestern
For more information please visit
University’s New York regional council.
www.mentoring.org/newyork/ypab.
Joseph B. Khakshouri ’98’s photographs were on exhibition at
Francesco Civetta ’00 recently wrote us the following update:
the Gallery Neuenschwander in Zurich in November.
2000s Bryan P. Boisi '00, Evan H. Levey '00, Benjamin S. Melting '00, and Stuart A. Orenstein '00 are the Class Representatives for the class of 2000. They met on December 14 to discuss plans for their 10th reunion on April 22, 2010. Nikola Barisic '00 has been working in the entertainment industry since college, graduating with a degree in entertainment business. He has "temporarily" relocated to Los Angeles, where he is employed by Untitled Entertainment, a prominent talent management company. Nikola has frequently run into other Browning alums at business functions, keeping the Browning network alive and well on both the East and West Coasts. He was recently recognized and asked to participate in the Entertainment Industry Leadership Institute, sponsored by the United Jewish Appeal.
In the last 10 months, I have DJ’d at the Sundance Film Festival in Utah and the Cochella Music Festival in California. I went to Paris to DJ at Le Baron, then to the Cannes Film Festival to DJ the One Dream Rush premiere after party. Flew to Rome post-Cannes, and did Italy’s number one radio show "Life in Asia" on Lifegate Radio. Flew back to NYC to DJ at the Surf Lodge in Montauk all summer long, as well as events at Nello Summertimes and Day & Night Restaurant & Beach Club in the Hamptons. In September, I commenced working on a project for Calvin Klein—designing and creating a multimedia art installation for the Calvin Klein store at 60th Street and Madison Avenue. The project will open on November 19, 2009 and will be on view until January 16, 2010. At the same time, I have been involved with pre-production for my first feature film, Kosher Nostra. I also helped with production for Julian Lennon’s "Lucy" music video to support the Band Together project for the Lupus Foundation. I recently appeared in an episode for a new TV show on CW11 that will take Gossip Girl’s time slot after the current season is over. I also am scheduled to play several parties for Art Basil Miami in December, and will be producing and designing a gallery/store/event space on Collins Avenue with a New York theme and artists. Plans are in the works for the next Sundance Film Festival as well.
Charles Davi '00 graduated from New York University School of
Bryan P. Boisi '00 currently works as an equity analyst for Cullen
Law in May 2008. He is now an associate at a large firm in New
Capital Management. He recently bumped into a few members
York, working in structured finance and derivatives. In his free
from the class of ’98 at the National Mentor Partnerships’ annual
time he writes for The Atlantic’s Business Channel.
Back to the Bull event, which honors some of New York’s most
Roman Vail ’94 in his recording studio.
L to R: Coach Taveras, Pascal Salvati ’96, Pascal’s girlfriend, and Doug Salomon at Browning in October.
Jon Estreich ’00 (left) in front of ISF’s billboard in Times Square.
ALUMNI Francesco DeRege '00 graduated from New School University
John D. Hemminger ’00 currently lives in Brooklyn and works
with a B.S. in media studies and film production. He has since
as an interactive designer.
worked in a wide variety of fields including film, television, investment research analysis, and marketing. Although primarily based in NYC for the past decade, work has taken Cesco as far as India, New Zealand, and Italy. He is currently apprenticing for a wine producer in Piemonte and plans to return to school for an
Marcus C. Javier ’00 lives in San Francisco and recently wrote us the following update: “I have been working at UBS for the past four years. I started in 2005 and am now prepping myself towards going back to business school. Although I still love NY, after graduating from USC in ’04, I had to come back to California.”
associate’s degree in viticulture and enology next September. He recently wrote to us and said, “I love receiving Browning news and hope to participate in Browning events in the future, especially the Alumni Soccer Game.” Jonathan G. Estreich ’00 is a senior consultant in the New York Forensic & Dispute Services practice of Deloitte Financial Advisory Services LLP. He is a certified anti-money laundering specialist and has recently achieved his credential as a certified fraud examiner. Aside from his full-time job, Mr. Estreich is the managing director of Imagine Science Films (ISF), a nonprofit organization committed
A. Douglas Kellogg ’00 recently sent us the following update: Over the past year and a half, I have moved into conservative politics. I spent a year with Americans for Tax Reform in Washington, D.C. continuing to work in communications. I then moved on to the campaign trail in New Jersey on behalf of the College Republican National Committee. Our efforts in New Jersey led to the election of a new governor, as well as many Republican wins in local positions. I will be heading to Poland on Christmas Day and will return in late January. I will visit Gdansk, Warsaw, Krakow, Gdinia, and possibly Prague. It remains to be seen whether I will stay in New Jersey or get involved with a 2010 campaign.
to inspiring enthusiasm and curiosity for the field of science through the use of film and community outreach efforts. In October, ISF hosted its Second Annual Film Festival in New York
Jed B. Levinson ’00 is a trader at First New York Securities LLC and lives in Tribeca.
City, featuring 50 films shown over a nine-day period. Prior to the
Adrian Muzinich ’00 is currently living in Los Angeles studying
festival, an ISF billboard was on display in Times Square. For more
for his M.B.A. at Pepperdine University.
information, please visit www.imaginesciencefilms.com.
Stuart A. Orenstein ’00 is currently vice president of Maximus
After graduating from Davidson College with a B.A. in political
Capital Corporation, focusing on real estate and alternative
science, Philip J. Grant ’00 moved back to NYC and currently
investments. He is looking forward to planning his class’s 10th
works as a sales trader for CF Global Trading LLC in midtown
reunion and reaching out to classmates to get them involved, too.
Manhattan.
Devin Yalkin ’00 is currently living in New York City and is completing his final year at the School of Visual Arts. This past
L to R: Francesco Civetta ’00 with Julian Lennon, David Katz, and Bono after a U2 show in New York this fall.
L to R: Taylor Watson ’02, Headmaster Clement, Luke Forelle ’02, Aaron Berlow ’02, and Evan Sachs ’02 at Luke’s induction into the Marine Corps in November.
John Katsos ’03 and Kristina Kouhartsiouk were married on May 23.
ALUMNI summer he had his first solo exhibition in New Jersey. For more
Clement, Taylor Watson ’02, Aaron Berlow ’02, and
information, please visit www.devinyalkinphotography.com.
Evan Sachs ’02 were in attendance.
Andy Sandberg ’01 won a 2009 Tony Award as a producer of the
Edward D. Kent ’02 works at Colliers ABR in New York, a full
Broadway revival of HAIR: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical.
service commercial real estate firm. He is also studying at NYU
The Broadway production is still running, and Mr. Sandberg will be
in the real estate graduate program.
opening a London production of HAIR in April, along with a U.S. national tour in September. For tickets or more information, please visit www.hairbroadway.com. Mr. Sandberg is also the lead producer of the forthcoming new musical The Last Smoker in
John E. Katsos ’03 married Kristina Kouhartsiouk on May 23, 2009, in Paphos, Cyprus. Kristina is an M.S. candidate at the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University. John is a J.D./M.B.A. candidate at George Washington University.
America, with book and lyrics by Tony nominee Bill Russell (Side Show) and music by Drama Desk nominee Peter Melnick (Adrift in Macao). The Last Smoker in America recently completed a successful
In August, Laurent S. Manuel ’04 signed a one-year contract to play soccer for the KV Oostende of the Belgian Second Division.
developmental workshop and is moving forward with production
Steven Guzman ’04 visited Browning in October. He graduated
plans. For more information, please visit www.lastsmoker.com. Mr.
from Boston College in December 2008.
Sandberg is currently working with world-renowned circus performer and comic daredevil Bello Nock to develop a show for Broadway. If you are interested in learning more about any of these projects or would like to inquire about opportunities to get involved, Mr. Sandberg can be reached at andy@andysandberg.com.
Ross C. Thompson ’04 is currently running the International Student Security division at Investigative Management Group (IMG), a top private security and intelligence gathering firm. The mission of IMG International Student Security is to “supply young travelers with accurate and up-to-date information concerning
Nicholas S. Versandi ’01 completed his first marathon in
international destinations as well as comprehensive services that
Philadelphia on November 22 with a finish time of 4:08.12. He has
ensure a higher level of safety, awareness, and confidence.” For
no immediate urge to complete another marathon anytime soon.
more information, please visit www.investigativemanagement.com.
Nicholas E. Bruckman ’02 is the producer and director of a
Alexander B. Berardi ’05’s fashion line was featured in a
documentary film called La Americana. For more information,
spring/summer 2010 runway show in September at the Altman
please visit www.la-americana.com.
Building during New York Fashion Week.
Luke A. Forelle ’02 was inducted into the U.S. Marines Corps
Trafton J. Kenney ’05 is living in Paris after graduating from
on November 7 at the Union Club in New York. Headmaster
Colgate in May. Although Trafton studied Spanish while at
Alexander Berardi ’05 during New York Fashion Week this fall.
Marty Haase, Chris Jordan ’09, and Laura Neller at Browning this fall.
L to R: Recent graduates Connor Nolan ’09, Emanuel Ruano ’09, Barry Cregan ’09, and Geral Guzman ’09 at Browning this fall.
ALUMNI Browning, his father, John J. Kenney ’77, says, “Mr. Bernard
Dominik J. Davalos ’08 visited Browning in October while he
must have made an impression on him!”
was home in New York on fall break from Duke University.
W. Stafford Travers, II ’05 graduated from Union College in June
Sean Zimmerman ’08 worked part time in the technology office
and is back in New York teaching First Grade at Browning.
at Browning this fall to help with the integration of the twenty
Benjamin P. D’Innocenzo ’06 recently spent six months studying
new netbook laptops.
in South Africa. He is currently a senior at Hobart where he is
Christopher G. Brandt ’09 attended a luncheon at the Cornell
pursuing a double major in art history and studio art and a
Club in April featuring keynote speaker Admiral Michael Mullen,
double minor in economics and “business, art, and culture.”
chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The event was sponsored
In September, Elias D. Trahanas ’06 and Robert J. Bramble ’06 attended a seminar led by current faculty member Dr. Gerry Protheroe at Boston University. Dr. Protheroe spoke on Roger
by the Hudson Union Society. Bill Reed ’85, a member of the Hudson Union Society, was also in attendance. The two alumni had the opportunity to hear Admiral Mullen speak at length on subjects such as the challenges involved in restoring order to
Hilsman and the Vietnam War.
Afghanistan and Pakistan, the threat from a nuclear armed Iran, Andrew K. Warner ’06 recently traveled to India to research
and the need to improve care for injured soldiers.
spirit possession. He is now writing his thesis at Reed College on the merging of science and religion in the transhumanist
Christopher Jordan ’09 visited Browning in October. He is a freshman at Columbia University.
movement. In October, Daniel C. Wessel ’06 began working as a security specialist for the Naval Criminal Investigative Service in
CORRECTION
Washington, D.C.
Alexzander M. Vadukul ’07 writes for www.rollingstone.com,
Pierre M. Henry ’07 is spending this year studying literature at
not Rolling Stone magazine, as previously printed in the summer Buzzer.
St. Catherine’s College, Oxford. Alexzander M. Vadukul ’07 writes for www.rollingstone.com. In September, he wrote a piece about the Central Park Sound Tunnel, an installation by experimental composer John Morton. Please visit page 48 for the full article.
Jesse Steel ’05 with Nurse Linehan.
Chris Brandt ’09 with Chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Michael Mullen, in April at the Cornell Club.
Juan Reyes '86 and John Hadden '87 at this year’s Book Fair.
ALUMNI
From the Archives GENERAL FREDERICK HENRY OSBORN, CLASS OF 1906
T
he grandson of railroad tycoon William Henry Osborn, and nephew of Henry Fairfield Osborn, paleontologist and Director of the American Museum of Natural History, Frederick Osborn
was descended from New York’s merchant elite on both his paternal and maternal sides. After graduating from the Browning School in New York City, he took his bachelor’s
corporations, particularly in the oil industry, serving as officer or member of the board. During the 1920s, Osborn became increasingly interested in the fields of anthropology and population studies, perhaps with the encouragement of his uncle. He became one of the founding members of the American Eugenics Society (AES) in 1926, an organization founded to promote eugenic education in the general public, and was associated with the Society throughout its existence. He also began an active association with the Galton Society in 1928, serving as its secretary in 1931.
degree from Princeton in 1910, and attended
The year he joined the Galton Society
Trinity College, Cambridge, for a
marked the end of his business career, as
postgraduate year before entering into
Osborn decided to retire to devote himself
business. Following in the footsteps of his
to science and the public welfare.
grandfather, Osborn set out to make a career
Osborn represented a distinct strain of
as a railroad man, reviving the flagging
reformed eugenics, and is credited by later
Detroit, Toledo, and Ironton Railroad and
eugenicists with providing the “American
working his way from treasurer to
movement with a program that abandoned
president in the span of half a decade.
the race- and class-consciousness of an Osborn took leave from the railroad
earlier period and that tied eugenics closely
to enlist in the army during the First World War, and when refused, he joined the
General Frederick Henry Osborn, Class of 1906
Red Cross instead, serving in France as Commander of the Advance Zone during the last eleven months of the conflict. When he returned to business in 1919, he sold his share in the railroad to Henry Ford at considerable profit and entered into partnership with two friends from the Red Cross in the firm G.M.P. Murphy and Co., which specialized in industrial management and later in stock brokerage. His business interests, however, were highly diversified and he maintained a hand in several other
to science” (Social Biology 16, 1969, 58). Elected president of the AES in 1946, he convened a meeting to discuss the
reconstitution of the Society, steering it away from “propagandizing” on social policy and toward becoming a forum for the discussion of eugenic ideas with a “well-informed audience,” and toward promoting scientific studies of population. One of the most tangible fruits of his impact on the society was the new journal launched in 1954, the Eugenics Quarterly, which, after an acrimonious debate, changed its name in 1970 to Social Biology.
ALUMNI A trustee of Princeton, as his father was before him,
Armaments beginning in 1948. With John D. Rockefeller,
Osborn was also active in promoting study of the social issues
he was also co-founder of the Population Council in 1952,
surrounding population. He was instrumental in founding the
promoting birth control and population planning
Office of Population Research as part of the Woodrow Wilson
internationally. He remained active in public life into the
School of Public and International Affairs in 1936, an
1970s, opposing the war in Vietnam, largely because he felt
organization devoted to the study of population issues. He also
it flummoxed American foreign policy while the Soviets
served as trustee to the Milbank Memorial Fund and the Social
consolidated their position in Eastern Europe and Asia. He
Sciences Research Council. In 1937, he cofounded the Pioneer
held a dim view of the prospect of unchecked population
Fund, a nonprofit foundation established to advance the
growth in the third world.
scientific study of heredity and human differences. From the 1930s onward, Osborn was regularly drawn into
From middle age through the end of his long life, Osborn was active in civic affairs on a more local level, as well as
public life, and his experiences in the public realm both shaped
international, including taking part in the Palisades Interstate
and were shaped by his scientific interests. An advocate of an
Park Commission, the Olana Preservation Society (Olana was
activist foreign policy and an ardent anti-isolationist, he
home of the artist, Frederick Church), and the New York
volunteered for the war effort even before America entered the
Governor’s Committee to Study the Sale of Liquor to Minors,
war. His administrative and organizational skills made him a
1956–1957. He married Margaret Schiefflin, a descendent of
valuable asset, and in August 1940 he was selected by Franklin
John Jay, in 1916, with whom he had two sons and four
Roosevelt to chair the Civilian Advisory Committee on
daughters. Frederick Osborn died in 1981 at the age of 92. I
Selective Service. Five months later he took over as chair of the Army Committee on Welfare and Recreation, responsible for information and education services for military personnel, and in September 1941, he was commissioned as Brigadier General and appointed Chief of the Morale Branch of the War Department. His efforts were well regarded. By the war’s end he had earned promotion to Major General and had been awarded a bronze star in Paris, the Distinguished Service Medal, the Selective Service Medal, and was made Honorary Commander in the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. After the war, Osborn continued to pursue his joint interests in public policy and population policy. His military experiences further strengthened his belief in an activist position on the world stage, and he assumed a hard line position, though not extremist, with respect to the Soviet Union. A supporter of the Marshall Plan and moderation in reconstructing Germany and Japan, he was appointed Deputy to the U.S. Representative to the U.N. Atomic Energy Commission in March 1947 (resigning in 1950), and he served for a year on the U.N. Commission for Conventional
—www.sourcewatch.org
ALUMNI
Alumni Online NEED WORKING CAPITAL? THE ICE MAN COMETH
The industry peaked in 1886 when 25 million tons of ice were
By Nicolas Perkin ’89 November 16, 2009
had significantly penetrated into the ice market. By 1920, Frigidaire was selling a million refrigerators—although they
Nic Perkin is cofounder and president of the Receivables Exchange, an accounts receivable financing tool. The Exchange is the world’s first online marketplace for real-time trading of accounts receivable.
Nicolas Perkin ’89
harvested in the U.S. In the late 1800s, commercial refrigeration
were still considered expensive—and by 1925 the price of refrigerators had dropped 80%, bringing an end to the age of ice
ovember 17 marks
N
harvesting. Commercial refrigeration did more than just make ice
the one-year
easier to access, by making the solution faster and easier to use, it
anniversary that
also put the customer in the position to control how and when
the Receivables
they used ice. They could now make ice when they wanted it
Exchange went live—the first day
and needed it without having to depend on the longer and more
that accounts receivable were traded
costly process of waiting for the ice man. They were in effect, no
electronically in a transparent,
longer captive to an external third party for their needs.
real-time, online marketplace. Business history is filled with these
Price points for working capital on the Exchange have come down over 50% from our first trade a year ago. We pride ourselves
moments, a myriad of different instances when the advent of
on putting America’s small and midsize companies back in the
some new technology facilitated behavioral change that resulted
driver’s seat, controlling when they increase their working capital,
in a paradigm shift of how people conduct business. Last month,
how they procure it and what price they are willing to pay. So, on
the Exchange did more volume in a single month than eBay did
this one-year anniversary, I’d like to take a moment to thank all of
in its entire first year of operations. At our current levels, we are
our sellers on the Exchange, the companies large and small who
already on track to do more volume this year than eBay did in its
were willing to try something new. Companies willing to allow
entire second year.
us to try to change the world, one receivables auction at a time.
Over the years, I have had a fascination with new inventions
Maybe the next time you reach into your refrigerator, you can
and their business ramifications. Of course, the age-old buggy
pause and think about your unique place in history and how you
whip and the combustion engine analogy. But more recently,
were there when the way America’s small and medium
I have been interested in what XM is doing to radio, the Internet
companies access working capital changed forever. I
to newspapers, and Netflix to Blockbuster—what is called “Disruptive Technology.” The list goes on and on. For some reason or another, I woke up this morning thinking about what the electric refrigerator did to the ice delivery business. In the 1800s, America developed a thriving ice harvest industry.
—http://www.blog.receivablesxchange.com
ALUMNI EXPERIENCE NEW YORK IN AUDIO AT CITY’S “CENTRAL PARK SOUND TUNNEL”
reversal adding a psychedelic element. The exhibit closed on
By Alex Vadukul ’07 September 1, 2009
work with music boxes, spent a year collecting recordings
September 10, 2009. Morton, an experimental composer known for his inventive
around the park for the exhibit. “I started to go out into the park and do all these surreptitious recordings without people knowing,” he says. Morton aimed to gather as many interesting sounds as possible. He is particularly fond of the sounds recorded at last year’s Make Music New York, an annual day-long festival in which thousands of musicians, amateur and professional, emerge to make music around the city, many of them in Central Park. “I would say literally every 20 or 30 feet there was a musician doing something,” he says. “There was a kid sitting by the boat pond playing Beatles hits on his violin.” Indeed, one of the exhibits’ highlights is a charming rendering of “Eleanor Rigby” on the violin. Sound installations are rare in Central Park and Morton’s is the first to make use of one of the park’s hallowed tunnels. “I’d always wanted to do a tunnel exhibit,” says Clare Weiss, curator
P
eople travel from all over the world to experience
of public art programs for NYC Parks. “John really latched onto
the strange tranquility of Central Park—843 acres
this idea that people act differently in tunnels—they shout and
of scenic nature in the middle of New York City. But
listen to echoes.” She adds that children respond to the exhibit
this summer visitors have been accosted by sound
right away, “They start jumping and zooming around,” she says.
as they pass through one of the park’s tunnels near the children’s
The computer that randomly programs the performances is
zoo. Six speakers perched inside the tunnel play a loud but artful
located in the attic of a zoo building nearby. Morton says that the
arrangement of sounds recorded around the park over the course
random nature of the exhibit may seem simplistic, but it has
of a year. Listeners can experience the entire sonic nature of the
meaning to it. “I was really interested in the sense of New York
world’s most famous park in one sitting.
being a city of coincidence,” he says. “Where everything is
Each performance of John Morton’s sound installation,
so packed together that you have these coincidences, things
known as the “Central Park Sound Tunnel,” lasts 20 minutes and
overlapping each other. If you listen to it, sometimes it’s
starts anew on the hour and half-hour with the chiming of the
mundane, but sometimes the coincidences are amazing and
nearby Delacorte clock. Performances are all different, randomly
all you can say is ’Wow.’ I wanted that to be the overlying
generated by a computer program. The rich collage of sounds
principle of the piece.”
can include musicians playing in the park, penguins in the zoo, ducks in the pond, loud New Yorkers, snow being shoveled, leaves being raked, and countless other noises. Sounds are often tied together with effects like delay, warbling, looping, and
—www.rollingstone.com
In Memoriam Benjamin Feder, Past Parent (Geoffrey ’92)
Robert M. Murdock ’59
Mr. Feder was a graphic designer turned wine maker whose
Robert M. Murdock, an art
Clinton Vineyard vintages were served in the White House.
historian and curator of 20thcentury and contemporary art
James M. Montgomery ’38
who organized some notable
James M. Montgomery ’38 and his wife, Margaret, died as a
exhibitions, died on Thursday
result of an automobile accident on November 22, 2007. The
at his home in Manhattan.
Montgomerys lived in Amityville, NY, their home for 47 years. After attending the Browning School, Jim went to Pomfret where he graduated in 1938, followed by one year as a foreign exchange student at Shrewsbury School in England. Returning from England, Jim attended Harvard for two years but withdrew to join the army in 1942. He was quickly sent to the Mediterranean, North Africa, and Italy where he took part in the Anzio Beach offensive. After the war, Jim returned to Harvard and graduated from Harvard Law in 1948. He practiced law in Manhattan for 52 years. He was a member of the Amityville Volunteer Fire Department for 25 years and held a position as Amityville Village justice for many years. He was a lifelong sailor who could maneuver his wooden catboat (no motor) with great skill through any shallow creek in the Great South Bay. Jim and Margaret are survived by their daughter, Katherine M. Porter, and her husband, Frederick, and their grandchildren, James J. Porter and William N. Porter. Their son, Alexander, followed them in death on July 13, 2009. —Written by Katherine M. Porter for the Buzzer
He was 67. The cause was cancer, said his wife, Dez Ryan. Mr. Murdock’s career spanned more than three decades and several important American museums, including the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, the Dallas Museum of Art, and the Walker Art Center. Born on Dec. 18, 1941, he earned a B.A. from Trinity College in Hartford in 1963 and an M.A. in art history from Yale in 1965. That year he became the first intern named to the Ford Foundation museum curatorial training program at the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, the starting point of the museum’s reputation as an important training ground for young curators. In 1970, after three years as a curator at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery in Buffalo, he became the first curator of contemporary art at the Dallas Museum of Art. There his exhibitions included the first one-person museum show of Richard Tuttle’s work (1971); “Poets of the City: New York and San Francisco” (1974); and “Jess: Translations Salvages PasteUps” and “Berlin/Hanover: The 1920s” (both 1977). From 1978 to 1983, Mr. Murdock was director of the Grand Rapids Art Museum in Michigan, where he oversaw the museum’s move to a renovated historic building and also organized exhibitions devoted to the work of Siah Armajani, Helen Frankenthaler, and Inge Morath. From 1983 to 1985,
ALUMNI Mr. Murdoch returned to the Walker as chief curator, supervising
After his divorce in 1986, he moved to Landgrove and then
the curatorial department and working on several exhibitions,
East Dorset, where he continued cartooning with his second
including a retrospective of the Dutch Conceptualist Jan Dibbets.
wife, Patricia Wood Read, who predeceased him in 2005. He
From 1985 to 1994 he was involved with the founding and operation of the I.B.M. Gallery of Science and Art in New York, first as a consultant and then as program director. The exhibitions
perpetuated his political career in Dorset by serving as a selectman for a number of years. In 2007, he remarried his first wife, Signa Lynch Read, who
he organized there included “Theater in Revolution: Russian
survives him. He is also survived by four of his seven brothers,
Avant-Garde Stage Design, 1913–1935” (1992) and “Two Lives:
Peter B. Read of Jaffrey, NH, Donald B. Read of Old Lyme, CT,
Georgia O’Keeffe and Alfred Stieglitz” (1993). After 1994, Mr.
William A. Read, Jr. of Palm Beach, FL, Frederick H. Read of
Murdock worked as an independent curator, writer and
Malibu, CA; his sister, Jean R. Knox, of Williamsville, NY; his
consultant. Among much else, he organized exhibitions of the
children, Sandra Read of Dorset, Susan Read Cronin, of
work of Lesley Dill and Mr. Tuttle for his alma mater, Trinity.
Manchester, and Stewart W. Read of Bellows Falls; two step-
In addition to Ms. Ryan, Mr. Murdock is survived by his
daughters, Marci MacNeur of Manchester and Mindy Schwartz
daughters Alison Murdock of San Francisco and Annie Murdock
of Silver Springs, MD; four grandchildren and two great
of New York City, and three grandchildren.
grandchildren, as well as a large assortment of nieces and —New York Times
Alexander D. Read ’46 Alexander “Sandy” Read died happily at the Equinox Terrace in Manchester, VT. Sandy enjoyed the whole thing, starting with his birth in Boston in 1928. One of nine children of Vice Admiral William A. Read USNR and Edith Fabyan Read, he grew up in Purchase, NY, attended the Browning School in New York City, and graduated from St. Pauls’s and Yale, majoring in hockey. After a few weeks of active duty in the United States Marine Corps, he spent 18 years as a member of the New York Stock Exchange, eight with DeCoppet and Doremus and ten as a partner in Spear, Leeds, and Kellogg. During this time, he played hockey on the side for the St. Nicks and Beaver Dam teams. He retired in 1971 and moved to Peru, VT, full-time from Mill Neck, N.Y. with his wife Signa Lynch, whom he married in 1950. There he raised sheep, drew cartoons, and was a serious hunter and fisherman. He continued his interest in hockey as a part owner of the Buffalo Sabres and coaching the Brattleboro squirt team for several years. He took an active interest in politics and served Winhall as a Grand Juror, planner and selectman.
nephews, distributed nationally. He was a member of a whole pile of fancy clubs, where he drank copiously, and at his death was still a member of the Brook in New York City, and Mory’s and Delta Kappa Epsilon at Yale. He was the author and illustrator of several books, including The Bear with the Orvis Rod, and was a scrimshawer of note, with over 300 pieces of work. His cartoons are found all over the world, and he will be remembered for his humor and his favorite saying, “There’s a buck in every disaster!” Following his cremation, his ashes will hauled to his favorite places. There will be no service at his request. “Bear” says goodbye to all. —Manchester Journal
Thomas H. Reynolds ’38
history department and dean of men in 1957, and dean of the
Thomas Hedley Reynolds,
college seven years later. He was known there as “Dean Tom.”
known for nearly three decades of transformational
expansion and evolution that distinguished his tenure touched
leadership at two Maine
nearly every facet of the Bates experience, from student life to
educational institutions, died
academics, from physical facilities to college finances.
Sept. 22. Reynolds served as The late Thomas H. Reynolds ’38, president emeritus of Bates College.
Reynolds became Bates’ fifth president in January 1967. The
He took the helm of the University of New England just 12
president of Bates College from
years after that institution was born from the merger of a small
1967 through 1989, and of the
liberal arts college and a school of osteopathic medicine. His
University of New England
tenure was marked by steady increases in student enrollment,
from 1990 to 1995. His success as commander of an armored unit
academic prestige and financial capability. A signal Reynolds
in the Mediterranean theater of World War II came to symbolize
achievement was the construction of the Harold Alfond Center
Reynolds’ qualities as an academic leader: far-reaching vision,
for Health Sciences, product of a capital campaign that won the
decisiveness and energetic determination.
university’s first million-dollar gift.
At Bates, Reynolds presided over a regional school’s
Off campus, Reynolds served as a director of the Public
evolution into a national liberal arts college now regarded as
Broadcasting Service in Washington, D.C., and as a trustee and
one of the nation’s best. He led Bates to strengthen its faculty
chairman of the board of WCBB-TV in Lewiston; a member and
and curriculum, add such key facilities as a modern library and
director of the National Association of Independent Colleges and
arts center, diversify its student body, and eliminate the SAT
Universities; a longtime director of Liberty Mutual; and a
requirement.
director and president of the New England Colleges Fund. He
Reynolds left retirement to become the third president of the
chaired the Governor’s Special Commission on the Status of
University of New England, in Biddeford. Originally taking the
Education in Maine. Reynolds held honorary degrees from
position on a short-term basis, Reynolds ended up giving that
Williams, Bowdoin, Colby, Middlebury, and Bates colleges and
growing institution five years of valuable service.
from the University of Maine.
Reynolds was born Nov. 23, 1920, in New York. He attended
Known on campus as a private man, Reynolds was a
the Browning School in New York City and Deerfield Academy
voracious reader and an outdoorsman who enjoyed skiing,
in Massachusetts, from which he graduated in 1938. In 1942, he
tennis, and particularly sailing.
earned a bachelor’s degree in political science at Williams
Reynolds was predeceased by his parents and by a son,
College. During World War II, Reynolds enlisted in the U.S.
David Hewson Reynolds, one of four children born during his
Army and served as a unit commander in a tank battalion that
marriage to Jean Fine Lytle. They married in 1943. In addition to
fought in North Africa and Italy; he earned the Army’s Bronze
his wife and Jean Lytle of Randolph, VT, he is survived by a
Star and the French Croix de Guerre with Silver Star.
sister, Elizabeth Reynolds Henderson of Locust Valley, NY; two
After the war, he earned a master’s degree in 1947 and a
sons, Thomas Scott Reynolds of West Tisbury, MA, and John
doctorate in history in 1953, both from Columbia University.
Hedley Reynolds of Stannard, VT; and a daughter, Tay R.
After teaching at Hunter College and serving as staff historian for
Simpson, also of Randolph.
the American Red Cross in Washington, D.C., Reynolds joined the history faculty at Middlebury College in 1949. Reynolds remained at Middlebury for 18 years, becoming head of the
—www.bates.edu
Upcoming Events FEBRUARY Alumni Council Note-a-thon
Monday, February 22
6:00 pm
Wilson Room
MARCH Winter/Spring Buzzer Class Notes Deadline
Monday, March 15
APRIL Alumni Council Meeting
Monday, April 12
6:00 pm
Wilson Room
ALUMNI REUNION
Thursday, April 22
All Day
TBA
Form VI–Alumni Council Breakfast
Wednesday, April 28
8:00 am
New York Athletic Club
Browning-Hewitt Reunion
Thursday, April 29
6:30 pm
TBA
Spring Benefit
Friday, April 30
6:00 pm
583 Park Avenue
Annual Meeting of the Alumni Association
Monday, May 24
6:00 pm
Wilson Room
Young Alumni May Mixer
May TBA
6:30 pm
TBA
Graduation
Wednesday, June 9
11:00 am
Christ Church
Summer Buzzer Class Notes Deadline
Tuesday, June 15
MAY
JUNE
2009 HOLIDAY PARTY
“Come hear the music which rings as a hope to the nations.” The Browning School 2009 Holiday Program
a rb ba ke u l
’17