Times of Brunswick - Winter 2012 by Brunswick School

WINTER 2012

A Mindstorm of LegoRobotics Global Learning: New Off-Campus Study & Exchange Program The Inspiration of Louis Zamperini: American Hero & Olympic Champion

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Brunswick School 100 Maher Avenue Greenwich, CT 06830 Tel: 203.625.5800 BrunswickSchool.org H ead m aste r Thomas W. Philip E x ecu t i ve Director of De v e l opment Thomas Murray E d i tor - in-Chief Bonni Brodnick bbrodnick@brunswickschool.org A ssi stant Write r Courtney Kennedy ckennedy@brunswickschool.org Class N otes Edito r Libby Edwards ledwards@brunswickschool.org S ports Edito r Diana Samponaro dsamponaro@brunswickschool.org Cont r i buto rs Rhonda Bonom, Diane Briggs, Krista Bruce, Jeanne DeLarm-Neri, Libby Edwards, Power Fraser, Mike Harris, Tucker Hastings, Carter Johnson ’12, Amy Kundrat, Leslie Lopez, John Martin, Parker Odrich ’13, Steve Polikoff, Jarrett Shine, Eric Tillman, Jonathan Weiner ’19 Cu b Repo rte rs Ty Pastore ’20, Keshav Raghavan ’17 C a rtoonist Matthew LaVersa ’17 F ront C over P hoto Diane Briggs Cont r i buting Photo g raphe rs Diane Briggs, Dan Burns, Maggie Conley, Susie Foyle, Andrew Hall, Carter Hempleman, Ally Roach, David Ruf ’15, Matthew Savitt ’12, Wolf Conservation Center (nywolf.org) Des i g ne r Good Design LLC, gooddesignsusa.com Pri nt i n g Media Solutions

B oa r d o f T r u stees 2 0 1 1 – 2 0 1 2 William A. Durkin III ’72 Chairman W. Preston Baldwin III Nancy M. Better Dr. Mark H. Camel Robert F. Carangelo Michael P. Castine Leslie A. Dahl B. Cort Delany, Esq. ’73 Matthew S. DeSalvo Dr. Scott V. Haig Kathleen Harrington Gregory B. Hartch ’88 John R. Harvey ’84 Carlos M. Hernandez

Andrew H. Jacobson David B. MacFarlane D. Ian McKinnon Sanjeev K. Mehra Ian C. Murray ’93 Shepherd P. Murray ’89 Michael J. Odrich Thomas D. O’Malley, Jr. ’85 Suzanne P. Peisch Philip F. P. Pierce Clifton S. Robbins William A. Schneider ’72 Lucy M. Stitzer Michael A. Troy John S. Weinberg Tracy R. Wolstencroft

Ex Officio Thomas W. Philip, Headmaster Steven H. Dudley, Assistant Headmaster, Director of Finance Kathleen Harrington, Senior Accountant Christina C. Kazazes, President of Brunswick Parents’ Association Thomas G. Murray, Executive Director of Development

Brunswick School, founded in 1902, is an independent college-preparatory day school for 939 boys in grades Pre-K through 12. The Upper School grades 9 through 12 have a coordinate program with Greenwich Academy, a neighboring girls’ school. In a community of challenging academics; comprehensive arts, drama and music programs; along with 34 varsity and subvarsity sports teams; 36 extracurricular opportunities and a renowned language program, time for Brunswick School students is also reserved both for reflection and service to others. We believe in the potential of each and every boy in our charge and have successfully developed an educational experience that emphasizes rigorous traditional learning, self-discipline and character development. The School’s motto, “Courage, Honor, Truth,” is a phrase familiar to students who have graced our halls and one that is followed in both word and deed. For more information, please contact Gina Hurd, Admission Director, at 203.625.5800 or go to BrunswickSchool.org.

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Depa r t m ents 2 Message from the Headmaster

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3 Letters to the Editor 16 Beyond the Classroom Italian Class Gets Cooking; 5th Grade Spelling Bee; Trip to Plimoth Plantation; Shane Kirsch & The Fuzzy Flow; Peter Lourie, Travel Writer/ Adventurer; Mr. Urbon’s new CD; Care Packages to New Alums; Upper School Writing Center; Trip to Wolf Conservation Center; Something to Harp About; Snow Day!; Mr. Cosby’s Portrait; Michael Allwood’s new book 26 Sports Roundup 32 Brunswick 2.0 33 Brunswick Alumni 48 Class Notes 56 In Memoriam

Phonathon inside back cover

Meeting Louis Zamperini: American Hero and Olympic Champion by Bonni Brodnick Global Learning: New Off-Campus Study & Exchange Program by Tucker Hastings A mindstorm of legorobotics

Feat u r es

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The Blue Notes on an American Jazz Tour in England by Parker Odrich ’13 Kim Iorillo: Be The Match and Save a Life by Courtney Kennedy

12 Brunswick Faculty,

Staff & Dogs: The Faithful Companionship Between People, Their Pooches & Their School by Bonni Brodnick

36 Homecoming 2011 36 Blue Skies, Sunshine &

Lots of Reminiscing 40 2011 Distinguished Alumni Award: Power Fraser ’74 43 Alumni Golf Outing 46 2nd Annual Alumni Association Party

Message from the HEADMASTER

In Praise of Imperfection It is inevitable that in a school community such as ours, there will always be irresistible pressures on students, faculty, parents and the institution itself to be virtually, if not literally, perfect … at all times … and in all ways. Yet, while we, and our boys, are continually striving for excellence, it is important to bear in mind that our true interest lies not only in the achieving of excellence but in the mere act of striving for it as well. In author Anna Quindlen’s recent treatise, Being Perfect, she emphasizes how perfection is something that, while perhaps wonderful to work toward, is often best avoided as an actual achievement. This might be because perfection can be such a terminus. It implies a static point, an arrival, an end point. Perfection doesn’t imply much originality, much flexibility, or most certainly, much real likelihood of further growth. Sadly, in communities such as Fairfield County, Conn., and Westchester County, N.Y., with such highachieving and high-aspiring parents and children, the quest for perfection in all things can take on an almost maniacal quality. How we look, where we work, where we live, where we vacation, what school and college stickers we put on the back window of what we drive … all run the risk of becoming individually and collectively too important and too conforming for both our health and that of our boys.

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

The bottom line? Healthy, well-intentioned, likely to be successful and normal boys are not perfect. They are often not even close to perfect and occasionally (to be honest), they even work hard to avoid being perfect. In a society which seems, everywhere, to entice us to the achievement of “perfection” with just one more purchase, one more diet, one more home renovation, etc., I want to close this brief letter much as I closed my Opening of School remarks to the boys: For Brunswick School, it is the striving for excellence rather than the actual attainment of it that matters. How we face the challenges associated with the attainment of lofty goals, how we deal with the occasional setbacks along the way, what we learn about ourselves and others on that journey … those are the lessons we seek to teach. In fact, without learning those important lessons along the way, excellence or perfection, indeed, seems a little less excellent and perfect.

Thomas W. Philip

Summer 2011

Letters to the E D I TO R

ce Advanced Scien m Research Progra ick ’W at es Launch

w Spring Fashion Sho La Dolce Vita Channels Chic at ’98 ler Gel e What Brought Mik to the Farm? Back

I am greatly pleased to see the recognition of the Classics department in Times of Brunswick (winter 2011 issue, “Excellence Maximums: Newly Endowed Classics Fund Named in Honor of Father Richard G. Cipolla,” page 10). As a former student, I earned a Classics diploma and have gone on to major in Classics at Columbia University. I had the privilege of studying under some extraordinary teachers at Brunswick, taking Latin with Father Cipolla and Dr. Markey, and Greek with Doc Freeman. These three teachers—along with their fine records of academic excellence—distinguished themselves through their tireless efforts as instructors and mentors, giving me essential skills for combating both the intellectual challenges of rigorous higher education and the moral challenges of an ever-changing world full of human struggle. I hope, for the sake of the next generation of Brunswick students (of which my own brother, Keith, is a member of the Class of 2015), that Brunswick will honor these teachers’ commitment to the Classics and moral education by sustaining its own commitment to the instruction and intellectual pursuit of Latin and Greek.

I’ve just seen the summer (2011) issue of Times of Brunswick and would like to make some additions and corrections to Mintie Dole’s football team photo in “Class Notes” on page 76 (see below). Charlie Pettengill is holding a football that has “1946,” which indicates that this is the 1946–47 junior varsity team. Most of the boys were in the 8th grade (as was I in 1946). Some on the team were in the 7th and 9th grades that year: Front Row: Eric Fox, Al Morano #24, Tad Alwyn, John Zabriskie, Charlie Pettengill, Schach Van Steenberg, Murray Mortimer, John Westervelt; Middle Row: Werner Brunhuber (not brother Kurt), Dick Hall, Ned Selden, Bruce Simson, Dave Frankel; Back Row: Mintie Dole, Tony Van Voorhies, Ned Gregory #38, Ward Davis, Peter George, Tony Montgomery (Tony was also team manager). Best, Ken Towe ’52 Number 38 in the back row of the “Class Notes” football picture of your prodigious newest Times of Brunswick (summer 2011 issue, page 76, see below) Edward (Ned) S. Gregory III, my brother who currently lives in DeSoto, Texas. I was in third grade at the time, but I remember going to football games to watch the “big boys” at play.

All the best, Huson (Hugh) Gregory ’57 (Retired from schoolwork, living on Cape Cod and loving it.)

Sincerely, Kyle Radler ’09

We welcome your comments and letters to the editor. Please contact bbrodnick@brunswickschool.org

Meeting Louis Zamperini: American Hero + Olympic Champion By Bonni Brodnick ©iStockphoto.com/36clicks

runswick School would have been proud to host one of America’s greatest heroes, Louis Zamperini, at a special assembly that was to be broadcast simultaneously to the Middle School but due to unforeseen circumstances, Mr. Zamperini, who is 94 years old, was unable to appear. Nonetheless, his message of inspiration, bravery and perseverance abounded. John Naber, his manager and one of America’s most highly decorated Olympians at the 1976 Games in Montreal, stood in to speak about the life of Louis, a 1936 Berlin Olympic miler, World War II Army Air Corps bombardier, plane crash survivor and a POW with a ferocious will to live.

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

Louis Zamperini’s story was revealed in the best seller, Unbroken, a required 2011 summer reading for the Upper School students. Written by Pulitzer Prize winner Laura Hillenbrand (author of Seabiscuit), the book is an odyssey of bravery, survival, resilience and redemption. The theme ties in to Brunswick’s motto, “Courage, Honor, Truth.” Of Louis’s Olympic glory, Mr. Naber said, “The Olympic spirit is like the wind. You don’t see it coming and you don’t see it passing. You feel the power of its presence.”

described what it was like on the ship that took him and the other athletes to the Berlin Olympic games, and told the boys his impression of Adolf Hitler. “To my fellow Olympians and me, Hitler appeared comical with his silly square moustache, plastered-down hair and jumping around yelling and shaking his fists,” Louis said. He also described the reaction of the German people as lukewarm when Hitler entered the stadium, and over-

He said that he still runs in his dreams … ‘Going as fast as the wind, jumping over streams and logs, and twisting and turning.’ He also spoke about the importance of being hardy and of redemption. “When Louis left for the war, he was resilient, defiant and self-confident,” he continued. “The Bird (an abusive prison guard at the camp in which Louis was a prisoner) wanted to break him down. “After the war, Louis was tortured by nightmares and obsessed with vengeance. He had a religious conversion experience and eventually returned to Japan as a missionary. He saw it in his heart to forgive The Bird and was no longer haunted in his dreams. “Laura Hillenbrand’s book has magnified Louis’s powerful message,” Mr. Naber told the boys assembled in Baker Theater. “He believes in miracles, and in the miracle of letting go. He doesn’t carry a grudge. He walks the walk.” Mr. Naber also told the boys that Louis Zamperini stands for 3 Be’s: Be hardy. Be prepared. Be happy. Later that afternoon, Paul Withstandley, Brunswick Upper School assembly coordinator and Senior Class Dean, brought five students to Greenwich Hospital to meet their hero. Along with bringing good wishes, the boys were delighted to see that the two get-well cards signed earlier by hundreds of Brunswick Upper School students, faculty and staff had heartened Louis. During the boys’ visit, he shared several stories about his time as a young man and as an Olympian. Louis

whelmingly enthusiastic as Jesse Owens came in. “Louis told us that his philosophy on life was to, ‘Stay positive and have a cheerful attitude in all things,’” Mr. Withstandley said. Just before leaving, he asked Louis one more question. “I wanted to know if he still had the urge to run. He said that he does, all the time. He said that he still runs in his dreams … ‘Going as fast as the wind, jumping over streams and logs, and twisting and turning.’ Louis finds waking up to a different reality is a bit sobering, but ‘It’s just something I have to accept with age.’ “For those of us who got to see Louis Zamperini for that brief visit,” he added, “was an experience we will never forget.” j

Front row (left to right): Tommy Rosencranz ’14; Louis Zamperini, an American hero; Jake Matthews ’12. Back row: Willy Fein ’13, Michael Chronert ’12, Rick Salame ’12.

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

The Blue Notes By Parker Odrich ’13, member of The Blue Notes ast summer, the Brunswick Blue Notes toured and performed throughout England. The group of 23 student musicians—including the graduated seniors—was chaperoned by Paul Raaen (Brunswick Upper School Music Director), Andrew Hall (Chair of the Brunswick Arts Department), Beth Raaen, Performing Arts Chair at Greenwich Academy and Theresa Hall. Our nine-day tour included seven scheduled performances in four cities throughout the country.

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

While having a great time spreading the knowledge of American Jazz to another country, the trip was an opportunity to learn about the British culture, and provided us with invaluable performing experience in front of a variety audiences. 1 The Blue Notes’ first stop was London, the group’s hub for three days and three nights. While in town, we played a joint-concert at Victoria Embankment Gardens with

the National Youth Jazz Orchestra, which received great reviews from an enthusiastic audience. While visiting the capital, the Blue Notes had the opportunity to visit several iconic British landmarks: St. Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, the Tate Modern art gallery and Madame Tussaud’s. We also enjoyed a jazz performance at the infamous Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club.

2 & 3 The Blue Notes had two performances in Oxford at St. Michael’s Church in Northgate —a lunchtime performance as a fundraiser for Japanese Earthquake relief and a separate evening performance the following day. While there, we visited the Bates Instrument Collection and Oxford University. 4 During our day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s birthplace, we took a walking tour and saw a Royal Shakespeare Company production of The Merchant of Venice.

5 & 6 We continued our musical tour with a stop in Nottingham where we played another jointconcert with the Nottingham High School’s Jazz Ensemble and the Nottingham Lower School Big Band. One of our best performances was the following evening at Oakham School Theatre. We celebrated with a memorable dinner hosted by Brunswick parent, Sanjeev Mehra (Gabriel ’20, Sammy ’13, Devin ’12, Nikhil ’10), at a local restaurant. We ended our trip to England with a final stop in the quintessential English town of Guildford where we played a joint-concert with St. Peter’s School. Following the performance, we donated our drum set and

amplifiers to the school as a thankyou for their hospitality. “Performing with English students was a highlight of our performance experience,” said Mr. Raaen. “The opportunity to maintain a high performance level, travel in a foreign country and enjoy it as a group made the trip unforgettable.” “Members of the Blue Notes got to know one another much better outside the restrictions of the classroom,” said Pierre DelCourt ’12. When reflecting on our Blue Notes tour of England, the best takeaway was not a single musical performance or historical landmark, but rather the relationships we built with one another. The band bonded on a personal level, thus making our music even sweeter. j

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

global learning: New Off-Campus Study & Exchange Program By Tucker Hastings, Department Chair for Off-Campus Study and Student Exchange “The Island School constantly challenged me and gave me a sense of enormous accomplishment. The environment was incredibly supportive and motivating; my friends from all over the country were there for me around the Harkness table, during the research symposium, the half marathon and the 8-day kayak.” —Teddy Lamont ’12, The Island School, Eleuthera, Bahamas

ast fall Brunswick announced a new curricular initiative, one consistent with the idea of preparing boys for a lifetime of learning and growth. The Office of Off-Campus Study and Student Exchange will offer to our boys opportunities to study with several high-caliber programs throughout the United States and abroad during the academic year. Implicit in the selection of these offerings will be intense academics consistent with Brunswick’s own program. Students will also be exposed to experiential education, site-specific study and new understandings of the proverbial “classroom.” While Brunswick has always supported students’ own efforts to study off-campus, now we will be better equipped to help both in the selection process of potential programs and in the mapping out of a boy’s academic course load for when he returns. Students will typically study “away” during their junior 8

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

year; however, it is also possible that sophomores and Seniors could choose to do so. In the last three years, Brunswick students have studied in Spain, Italy and the Bahamas either for the entire academic year or for a semester. Each boy has come back with stellar reviews and an admirable enthusiasm for his program. We are hopeful that this enthusiasm will soon be shared by more of our students as they consider yearlong opportunities like School Year Abroad in several European and Asian countries, as well as semester schools including, but not limited to, Chewonki Semester School (Maine), The Mountain School (Vermont) and Swiss Semester (Switzerland). Inherent in all of these programs is an emphasis on interdisciplinary study: students will speak Spanish in Costa Rica (CIRENAS) as they learn about environmental stewardship; the Maine Coast will invite literary and artistic inquiry; service opportunities

“Being in a foreign culture and speaking the language has helped me to gain a more well-rounded perspective on the world and on life that simply would not be possible in America.” —Chris Barnett ’13, SYA Italy

“My year abroad in Zaragoza, Spain, was without doubt the best year of my life. Not only because of the experiences I had each and every day, but more importantly because of who I was when I came home.” —Luke Lorentzen ’11, SYA Spain

For additional information about Off-Campus Study and Student Exchange,

please contact Tucker Hastings, Department Chair for Off-Campus Study and Student Exchange at thastings@brunswickschool.org

Brunswick is in the process of establishing exchanges with schools in the U.K. and in Jordan. Kings Academy specifically offers a year of immersion in the Middle East for students of Arabic. The opportunity to send our boys abroad is an exciting one and, at the same time, the opening of our doors to members of peer schools throughout the world will undoubtedly engender a more profound learning of other cultures and world affairs right here in Greenwich. Global citizenry, leadership, environmental stewardship, language learning—so many critical themes of well-conceived curricula—are integral to the programs now available to our boys. While leaving Brunswick is invariably hard, it is clear that new, transformative experiences await the bold. j

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

©iStockphoto.com/Pingebat

will abound at The Island School (Bahamas) as students work with local schools, while at the same time they themselves learn about sustainability. Representatives from the aforementioned programs, have either been or will be coming soon to Brunswick to meet with interested students and faculty alike. Already directors of CIRENAS in Costa Rica met with me; Steve Weber, chair of the science department; Johnny Montanez, director of community service; and Dana Montanez, co-chair of Brunswick science department, teacher of Science Research, Biology and Genetics. It is also important to bring the world to Brunswick. In past years we have partnered with ASSIST, hosting boys from Germany and Sweden. Recently boys from Australia, France and Canada have also added to the Upper School community. Fortunate to benefit from an extensive network abroad,

Be The Match and Save a Life By Courtney Kennedy

Kim Iorillo, a 4th grade teacher, has always dreamed of

saving a life. As a child, she fantasized about rescuing her family from tidal waves, poisonous spiders and runaway trains. Fortunately for her family, but unfortunately for her hero status, she had a relatively safe childhood, free of natural disasters. Little did she know that years later as an adult, she would have the opportunity to be someone’s hero. Mrs. Iorillo’s journey began in the spring of 1996. She had recently been hired to teach at Brunswick and her excitement was high. In anticipation of starting her new job in September, Mrs. Iorillo and her husband, John, took a walk down Maher Avenue to visit the School. Upon arriving on campus, Mrs. Iorillo found a bone marrow drive for John Altman ’85 who was battling leukemia and in need of a transplant. With hopes that she would be a match, she filled out a questionnaire, someone took a swab of the inside of her cheek to get a DNA sample, and she was on her way.

“Before the procedure began, the doctor told me that not only would I have the possibility of saving someone, but the possibility of curing someone.” Although Mrs. Iorillo was not a match for John Altman, in April 2011, fifteen years after being added to the bone marrow donor registry, she received a call from Be The Match, a nonprofit organization that facilitates marrow and stem cell donations to patients in need of a transplant. To Mrs. Iorillo’s surprise, she learned that she was a potential match for someone dying of Hodgkin’s disease. Two months later, after a blood test determined that she was a viable match, Mrs. Iorillo went to New York



Kim Iorillo at New York Presbyterian Hospital donating her stem cells via peripheral blood stem cell transplant.

Presbyterian Hospital to donate her stem cells through a peripheral blood stem cell transplant. This is a more common form of stem cell donation than the traditional and more painful marrow transplant. For Mrs. Iorillo, the donation process was seamless. In preparation for the transplant, she received a series of injections over the course of five days that increased the number of blood-forming cells in her body. On the fifth day—the day of her donation—she was hooked up to a machine designed to collect blood through a needle in one arm, collect stem cells and return the filtered blood through her other arm. “Before the procedure began, the doctor told me that not only would I have the possibility of saving someone, but the possibility of curing someone,” said Mrs. Iorillo. “It couldn’t have been a more wonderful experience. Being a stem cell donor is a relatively painless way to change someone’s life.” For thousands of patients with life-threatening diseases, such as leukemia and lymphoma, a transplant from an unrelated donor is their best or only hope for a cure. These patients depend on the Be The Match Registry to find a match—and a second chance at life. While many patients find the lifesaving match they need each year, more donors are needed to help increase the likelihood that all patients will find a match. During Homecoming weekend in October, Mrs. Iorillo and Brunswick organized a Be The Match registration and screen station in Burke Field House. The table attracted potential donors of all ages and was a terrific way to support and bring awareness to the transplant organization. “We signed up 27 alumni, faculty and parents,” said Mrs. Iorillo. “Registering Headmaster Tom Philip was truly the icing on the cake. Altogether, the success of our drive was another testament to the generosity of the Brunswick community.” j

Headmaster Tom Philip registering as a donor at the Be The Match booth at Homecoming in October.

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

By Bonni Brodnick

Brunswick Faculty, Staff & Dogs:

Strider Withstandley in the Adirondacks

The Faithful Companionship Between People, Their Pooches & Their School It was brought to our attention that Brunswick School is a dog-loving community. No dis to the cats, fish, bearded dragon lizards, bunnies, guinea pigs, turtles and other pets amongst us, but in a schoolwide survey from King Street to Maher Avenue, it appears that dogs won out. It is not out-of-the-box to embrace that many of the traits Brunswick faculty and staff bestow upon our boys—such as devotion, truthfulness, patience, loyalty, leadership and mentorship—is also imparted to their pets (who eagerly await their owner’s return from school and/or athletics every afternoon). This implicit bond between Bruins’ faculty and staff and their pooches is exactly what is unleashed each and every day. The following montage is a bone-fied reflection of one of the myriad things that make Brunswick School head-of-the-class in so many ways. Faculty, staff and their dogs. It’s a beautiful thing.

Sit. Stay. See our photos. Share the love. 12

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

John Booth

(Chairman of the History Department & Upper School History teacher) “Here I am with Jackson (brown) and Otis (white), who are 7-yearold brothers from the same litter, whom we adopted five years ago. They came from a dog track in Florida and are enjoying the good life in Greenwich.”

Margot Beattie

(Director of Records & Scheduling) and Toby, a 6-month-old Bernese Mountain dog.

Bonni Brodnick

Diane Briggs

(Director of Communications) “My beloved Willis, a 14-year-old Pembroke Welsh corgi, was a dedicated and loyal friend.”

(Director of Donor Relations) and Bella, a 6-year-old Yellow Lab.

Brian Callahan

(5th Grade teacher) with Annie (left), a 3½-year-old Chocolate Labrador and Basset Hound and Chaussette—whose name means “sock” in French—a 3-year-old combination Black Labrador and bassett hound. “My dogs, who are the best of friends, were rescued from a high kill shelter in the South where euthanizing is commonplace.”

David Bruce

(Director of Middle School Admission, Financial Aid & Middle School Math teacher) with Braxton (3) and Wallace, a 13-year-old Shepherd and Terrier mix who was rescued from a kennel in Charlottesville,Va.

Sue Das

(1st Grade teacher): “Solo, is a 3-year-old Goldendoodle who shares his August 5 birthday with me and Rishi, who is in 6th grade. All three of us are as stubborn as ever.”

Mike Deangelo

(Director of Safety & Security) with Sport, a 10-year-old beagle.

Martha Durkin

(Upper School Book Store Manager) and Finn, a 2-year-old Golden Retriever. Finn is big brother of Handsome (Steve Garnett’s dog) and Lady (Tom Murray’s dog).

Brian (Doc) Freeman

(Upper School English & Greek teacher) with his 1¾-yearold Blue Belton English setter, Perikles Prince of Tyre. (Titus Andronicus, his 4¾-year-old halfbrother (who is partially in the photo, is also an English setter.)

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

Steve Garnett

(Director of Upper School Admission & Upper School English teacher) with his 9-month-old Golden Retriever, Handsome. “What has been particularly wonderful about having Handsome here is that kids come down all the time to visit. There are boys (and girls) I have gotten to know so much better simply because they want to spend time with him.”

Kim Goodman

(Upper School Science teacher) with Lucy, a 6-year-old Golden Retriever. “Lucy is the sweetest dog ever but she is constantly stealing food. She is, of course, a Giants fan.”

Mike Harris

(Upper School Math teacher) and Britty, a 14-year-old bassett hound. “In memory of our beloved hound Brit … thanks for always bein’ there for us … thanks for always takin’ the time to look for me … I will always remember you with a tear in my eye and smile in my heart.”

Jeff Harris

(Director of Athletics & Upper School History teacher) and Cooper, a 4-year-old Boynton spaniel.

Tucker Hastings

(Upper School French teacher, Junior Class Dean & Department Chair for Off-Campus Study and Student Exchange) and Crash, a 3-year-old Golden Retriever.

Krista Kern

(Middle School Art teacher) and Daisy, a 3-year-old boxer.

Amy Kundrat

Lorna LaRiviere

(Director of New Media) Charlie (left) and Meg (right) are both retired racing greyhounds adopted from Greyhound Rescue and Rehabilitation.

Brett Martell

(Lower School Science Coordinator) “Tank is an 8-year-old Great Pyrenees Yellow Lab mix. We adopted him from Kentucky.”

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

(Middle School Art teacher) and Bailey, her 2-year-old (and “very well mannered”) beagle/ Brittany spaniel.

Ginny Martin

(Lower & Middle School nurse) Nurse Martin with Smash, her 3-year-old German Shepherd. “Smash has his beloved tennis ball in his mouth. He is constantly playing.”

Johnny Montanez

Tom Murray

(Upper School Director of Community Service) and (left to right) Jayden (3), Ruby (5),

(Executive Director of Development) with Troy (3), Jake (5, a Brunswick Pre-Kindergartner) and Lady, a 4-month-old Golden Retriever, who is sister of Finn (Martha Durkin’s dog) and Handsome (Steve Garnett’s dog).

Dana Montanez

(Co-Chair of Brunswick Science Department & Science teacher) and Georgia (1) with Niño, a 5-yearold German Shepherd.

Lela Philip

(Pre School Art teacher) and Tom Philip (Headmaster) with their two Labrador Retrievers, Red (left, 2 years old) and Jack (right, 6 years old). In the middle is Beau, a 14-week-old Cavalier King Charles. (Note: Jack is Red’s uncle.)

Sharon Palmer

(Assistant to Doug Burdett, College Guidance) and Munchkin, an 8-year-old Shih Tzu.

Lisa Schultz

(Administrative Assistant, Upper School Admission) with Bess, a 4-year-old Yellow Lab who is a Guiding Eyes for the Blind release dog. In front are (left to right): Beatrice, an 8-year-old Black Lab, who is also a Guiding Eyes release dog and Bridget, an 11-year-old Chocolate Lab.

Sonia Schott

(Middle School Science teacher) and Zulu, an 8-year-old Black Lab. “He is the worst watchdog, but he makes up for it as the best ball catcher and Frisbee player ever!”

Deb Schwartz

(Pre-Kindergarten teacher) with Charlie (4), Jackson (7, a Brunswick 2nd Grader), Sam (9, a Brunswick 4th grader) and Lily (19 months) and Maggie in the middle. “Maggie is a 12-year-old Lab mix. She loves to play ball, swim in the Racquette River in Tupper Lake, but most of all … she adores kids.”

Steve Weber

(Co-Chair of Brunswick Science Department & Science teacher) and Einstein, a 4-year-old Yorkshire Terrier.

Robert Taylor

(Upper School History teacher) is the proud owner of Carolina, a 2-year-old Portuguese Water Dog.

Paul Withstandley (Upper School Dean of Senior Class & Spanish teacher) and Strider, a 13-month-old Rhodesian Ridgeback. j

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

Classroom beyon d

the

Italian Class Gets Cooking Students got a taste of the Mediterranean and authentic Italian culture without ever leaving the classroom. As part of a language immersion exercise, Sarah Crawford (Upper School Italian teacher) and her Italian II honors class made tiramisu, one of Italy’s most famous desserts and proudest culinary traditions. During the first of four lessons, students were handed an Italian vocabulary list and asked to watch an Italian cooking show clip, without subtitles. The purpose of the assignment was to translate the vocabulary words by listening to and watching the actions of the native speaker in the video. After

completing the vocabulary lesson, they previewed what they would be doing later in the class: making their own tiramisu. “At Brunswick, we emphasize language acquisition through immersion and activities such as cooking,” said Ms. Crawford. “Cooking is not only an important component of Italian culture but also a great way to learn new vocabulary and grammar.” During this hands-on Italian lesson, the students used a variety of utensils and ingredients to make their tiramisu, thus furthering their knowledge of Italian words and conversation. In the third lesson, students read

a series of cooking instructions and were asked to put them in order based on their previous cooking exercise. And lastly, the boys wrote the actual recipe in Italian. The Foreign Language Immersion Program (FLIP) enhances the Upper School Modern Language curriculum, which includes Arabic, Chinese, French, Italian and Spanish. FLIP offers study abroad opportunities to every Upper School student, regardless of financial need, so that they can practice their language skills, live with host families and further their understanding of the world. —Courtney Kennedy

 Scott DeAngelo ’14 mixing tiramisu batter during an Italian class immersion exercise.  Matias Gonzalez-Bunster ’12 and Stephen Seegar ’14 in the tiramisu assembly line.

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

B eyon d the C l ass r oo m

Annual 5th Grade Spelling Bee is a B-L-A-S-T Can you spell “ffffffun”? The 5th graders were in fine fettle at the annual Spelling Bee that was as highflying and intense as any athletic competition tournament, meet, match, or game. Kudos to Alexander Constantine, Middle and Upper School Choral Director, for coordinating the annual event. And a round of applause to Carter Hempleman ’02,

Middle School intern, who hosted the Bee in Camuto Auditorium and challenged the boys with harder and harder words. “Altitude,” he stated as one of the first words in the competition. “Can you please repeat the word?” asked one of the contestants. “Altitude,” Mr. Hempleman repeated slowly. “Can you please use it in a sentence?” “Altitude is a noun meaning the height above sea level or the earth’s surface.”

As misspellers were eliminated, tension mounted and there was one more empty seat onstage. Things began to really thin as the words got into “N” and beyond. The winning word? P-E-D-A-G-O-G-I-S-T. A round of applause to Christian Hartch ’19, this year’s crowned champion of the Brunswick School 2011–12 Spelling Bee and … drum roll, please … the first 5th grader to win in recent memory. —Bonni Brodnick

Last October, the 4th grade went on an overnight field trip to Plymouth, Mass. For this annual Brunswick Lower School tradition, students take on the identities of colonial tradesmen—silversmiths, blacksmiths, gunsmiths, wig makers, hat makers, glass blowers, weavers, candle makers, peddlers, potters, sail makers, bakers, metal cutters, tanners, printers, coopers and teachers—living in Hingham, Mass. in 1764 . Since we learned a lot about American history while preparing for this, we were excited about our trip to historic Plymouth. The buses left Brunswick at 7 a.m. filled with my classmates, teachers and a few class dads who volunteered as chaperones. When we arrived in Plymouth, we went straight to the Mayflower II, an exact replica of the original Mayflower that the Pilgrims sailed in 1620. Walking around the ship was interesting and I was surprised

by how small the cabins were. Even the captain’s cabin was tiny. After touring the ship, we walked down the hill to view Plymouth Rock. Most people assume that the Pilgrims stepped right off the Mayflower onto the rock, but the rock just represents their arrival in the New World. Our next stop was a museum called Plimoth Plantation. (Did you know that when the Pilgrims first arrived in America they spelled Plymouth with an “i” and no “u”?) Before exploring the museum, we watched a movie about the origins of Plymouth. We learned that when the Pilgrims came to America they built a Colonial village and that there was a tribe of Indians called the Wampanoag. We later visited the original Wampanoag village where there were huts and people dressed as Indians. Down a second path we found ourselves in a Colonial village where we saw more huts and little houses.

susie foyle

4th Grade Trip to Plimoth Plantation

On the 4th-grade trip to Plymouth Rock are (left to right): Andres Jasson, Charles Heath and writer Ty Pastore.

It was getting late so we boarded the bus back to the John Carver Inn, where we were staying overnight. At dinner, my classmates and I sat at huge tables with ten seats. We had a great time and the food at the hotel was excellent. Since it was too rainy and cold outside, our spooky lantern tour took place inside the hotel. We also listened to ghost stories in a dark room where the only light was the flame emitted from a lantern. The next morning we took another tour of Plimoth Plantation before boarding the buses to go home. As we pulled away, I couldn’t help think that this was the best field trip I had ever been on. —Ty Pastore ’20

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

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A Mindstorm of legorobotics At the beginning of LegoRobotics Club in September, Drew Dawson, Brunswick’s robotics teacher, handed out boxes of wheels and parts to the 4th graders signed up for the technotask in this after-school program. It was up to them to use their ingenuity to make sense of it all and invent their own unique LegoRobotic. After eight weeks, and lots of resourcefulness, the boys applied The Method of Line-Following that uses light and dark values to navigate a course. Cheering around a white table with a black-tape path, the inventors watched rounds of ’Bot Battle to see which invention could make it to the finish line without getting knocked over. In another challenge called “Drag Race,” ’bots raced to get to the

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

finish line but had to be careful not to go too fast and fall off the table. “Typically, students receive a challenge from me and, after an initial run, have time to make changes to their robot and edits to their program,” said Mr. Dawson. “The boys’ charge for this was to program a light sensor to read light and dark values so that the robot could follow a line all around the course.” “The fun thing about LegoRobotics is that you get to program your own computer and you don’t have to listen to what anyone says,” said Andrew Casturo-Burnette. “The robots can literally do anything we ask them to do.” (I know, I know … readers are wondering whether this is a chip that can be placed in children, right? Or

dogs? Bring it up with our young inventors. A few years from now we won’t be surprised if one of our own LegoRoboticators invents the firstever obedience chip.) “I love the LegoRobotics program, building with electric Legos and having them come to life,” added Peter Sheldon. “The boys have to walk a fine line between programming/designing something cool, and programming/ designing something functional,” said Mr. Dawson. “This group has done a fantastic job at incorporating both the aesthetic and intelligent. They’ve created robots that ably perform difficult tasks, while still looking pretty fantastic. I couldn’t be prouder of the boys’ development in robotics.” —Bonni Brodnick

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Exploring the World with Peter Lourie, Adventure Writer and Photographer

Shane Kirsch & The Fuzzy Flow Spin Out Lion in the Cut There’s plenty to groove on with Shane Kirsch’s new and second CD, Lion in the Cut. The Upper School instrumental teacher is a multiinstrumentalist sensation who bangs it out with sax, flute and keyboard playing, as well as drum programming and vocals. “This is the record I’ve wanted to do for a while,” said Mr. Kirsch. He felt lucky to reconnect with an old friend, who has worked with many artists including Stevie Wonder, Dave Matthews and The Roots. The CD also features some of the Hudson Valley’s most talented musicians on bass, keys, guitar and trombone who completely sizzle on the all-original jazz-infused tunes. Lion in the Cut produced by Craved Artist Records hits upon a range of styles—from sticky funk, to electronica, to Afro-jazz and hiphop. Turn up the volume and check it out at thefuzzyflow.com. —Bonni Brodnick

Brunswick Middle and Lower School boys went on an armchair trip around the world when adventure writer and photographer, Peter Lourie presented an action-packed assembly at King Street. Mr. Lourie, who has written 25 books about his global adventures, inspired the boys with firsthand experiences that were full of stuff kids adore: adventure, danger, monkeys, manatees and, most of all, buried treasures. “There is adventure in your own backyard,” Mr. Lourie said. “You just have to go out and find it.” Mr. Lourie has explored the Amazon jungle and the mountains of Ecuador; journeyed on the Mississippi, the Rio Grande and the Yukon; navigated the Everglades and the Erie Canal; and traced the trails of Lewis and Clark. On the day of his visit to Brunswick he spoke about being the first in history to canoe 315-miles down New York state’s Hudson River—from its highest pond source at Lake Tear of the Clouds to its mouth at Manhattan’s southern tip.

The message laced throughout Mr. Lourie’s presentation wasn’t the adventures he’s taken, but the stories he captures and writes while traveling. “You have to smell, see and experience a place in order to write about it,” said the rugged adventurer. He also emphasized, “…it’s not only OK to write about your feelings, but that emotion is absolutely essential to good writing.” “Mr. Lourie was a dynamic presenter and our Lower School boys loved his visit,” said Katie Signer, Head of Lower School. “Through storytelling and great photographs, they were introduced to the magic of adventure and writing. Whether canoeing, hiking, scuba diving or searching for hidden treasure, Mr. Lourie modeled the importance of curiosity and wonder.” —Courtney Kennedy

3rd graders with adventure writer/ photographer Peter Lourie. Left to right: Sam Eichmann, Keegan Gilsenan, Peter Lourie, Hugo Nutting, Victor Ferraro and Ahmad Al-Maqtari.

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

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A Music Review of Mr. Urbon’s New CD: MÉlodie: Jazz Manouche [+] More The talented Larry Urbon, 7th grade life science teacher and Middle School science coordinator, has a new CD that was released during the holiday season. Through an exclusive interview, I found out more about his latest musical masterpiece: Along with having a rich history at Brunswick Middle School, Larry Urbon is head of a vocalist-guitar group known as Café Musette. The group, which performs gypsy jazz every Wednesday at Luc’s Cafe in Ridgefield, Conn., has been playing in the Westchester/Connecticut region

for the past 25 years. In addition to singing classic French tunes and contemporary jazzy songs, Café Musette plays traditional Romani Mélodies from Eastern Europe, plus flamenco, tango and American jazz and pop standards that, according to his website (cafe-music.com), “… were part of the repertoire of the Hot Club of France back in the 1930s and ’40s.” Mélodie, Mr. Urbon’s second CD, features 16 songs that are a mix of Spanish, French, English and “vocalese,” a genre of music in which there are no real words, but only vocal sounds. Of the songs,

Mr. Urbon enjoys the French songs, specifically a song known as “Le Soleil, Ton Visage et La Mer” (English translation: The Sun, Your Face and the Sea). He is joined on the album by singer Noreen Mola, a visual artist from Redding. You can hear Mr. Urbon at Luc’s, but if you are too busy to swing by on a Wednesday, his songs are posted at cafe-music.com. And if you can’t get enough of the lively rhythm of Mr. Urbon’s music there, Mélodie and his previous albums are just waiting to hop into that CD drive. —Keshav Raghavan ’17

Sent with Love from Brunswick Moms New alumni from the Class of 2011 were in for a treat when a group of moms and members of the ’Wick Alumni/Development Office stuffed care packages to freshmen about to dive into their first semester of college exams. Big bubble mailers included a short note, the latest issue of Times of Brunswick, a ’Wick T-shirt and Bruins Bear magnet, microwaveable popcorn, hot chocolate and other yummy confections all sent with love from Maher Avenue. —Bonni Brodnick Left to right: Class of 2011 moms Marilyn Juan, Beba Erichetti, Eileen Grasso, Nancy Better, Barbara Buffone, Annesley MacFarlane and Denise Nowell.

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

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Cross Your T’s and Dot Your I’s: The Writing Center is Officially Open! The Brunswick Writing Center, piloted by Upper School English Chair Brendan Gilsenan, opened its doors to students in the English office on Pettengill campus in late October. By providing writing support for all students in grades 9 through 12, the Writing Center offers one-on-one consultations, group workshops and facultyconducted seminars designed to help students improve at all stages of the writing process. Whether they need guidance with an assigned essay, advice on a revision, or even feedback on an out-of-school creative writing project, the objective is to help students identify the weaknesses in their writing, as well as become more confident, sophisticated writers. “The Writing Center offers each student the opportunity to engage in a conversation about his writing and to gain valuable insight on how to become a more effective editor of his own work,” said Mr. Gilsenan. Consultations are led by members of the Upper School English and History departments who recommend outstanding students from their junior and senior classes to apply for “Master Writers” positions, a year-long commitment in mentoring. “Master Writers” (or “Writing Fellows”) on this year’s roster include Christopher Brown ’13, Willy Fein ’13, Peter Geithner ’12, Carter Johnson ’12, Jake Matthews ’12, Matthew Podlesak ’13 and James Whittemore ’13. “Having been selected to mentor in the Writing Center is a huge honor,” James said. “Students who

might be reluctant to go to their teachers if they have a problem with their writing, might be more comfortable choosing one of their peers instead.” “We are excited about the opportunity to provide the boys another resource to help them

improve their writing,” Mr. Gilsenan continued. “Providing a space for the Writing Center also gives a chance for students and teachers who are interested in writing to work together to provide an academic service to the community.” —Courtney Kennedy

A group of 11th grade “Master Writers” gathered in the Writing Center: (left to right) Matthew Podlesak, James Whittemore, Christopher Brown, Willy Fein.

Grant MacFaddin, a 9th grader (left) having a one-on-one writing consultation with 11th grade “Master Writer” Matthew Podlesak.

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

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Brunswick 5th graders listened closely as the wolves howled back at their calls when they visited the Wolf Conservation Center in South Salem, New York. In addition to learning more about how to protect the species, we learned many interesting facts: Did you know that when a wolf pup is born, its eyes are blue? That the closest relative to the wolf is the dachshund? That wolves need a lot of space for themselves … as in 100 miles? That they can travel long distances in short times … as in 40 miles in one day? For a while during the 20th century, wolves throughout North America were hunted, trapped and

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

killed. Few remained in the lower 48 states. This was detrimental to our environment because the species plays an important role in our ecosystem. Wolves limit the population of ungulates so that the plants they eat can reproduce. They also kill the sick so that the rest of the ungulate population can stay healthy. Thankfully, we have been reintroducing wolves all over the country. The red wolf has been brought back to North Carolina. In the 1990s, wolves were reintroduced into Yellowstone Park, which has created a positive effect on the area. We have also brought back the Mexican gray wolf into its native area.

wolf conservation center (nywolf.org/) and carter hempleman

A Howling Good Time at the Wolf Conservation Center

All four 5th grade advisories had a great time on the trip to WCC and hope to go back in the near future to learn more about wolves, what their job is in the ecosystem and how we can continue to protect this important species in the Northeast. —Jonathan Weiner ’19

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Something to Harp About: Library Time Gets Celestial When the Pre-Kindergarten boys come into the library for stories and rhymes, they take a seat upon one of the colorful animal figures woven into the rug. After Marianne McShane, Pre-K and Middle School librarian, reads them a story, something magical happens. It’s almost celestial, in fact. As a native of Northern Ireland’s County Down, she’s been doing Irish dancing since she was 5 years old, and has forever been enchanted by the harp. “I’ve always wanted to introduce music and singing into library time,” Ms. McShane said. She decided to follow her lifelong passion and began learning to play the Irish harp from a local teacher. “In ancient Ireland, storytellers were harpers,” she continued. “The difference between a harpist and a harper is that harps are what you see in orchestras. A harper plays a small folk harp which has no levers or pedals.” With a schedule that brings Ms. McShane from Pre-K on Maple Avenue to Middle School on King Street, she definitely needs to travel light. Enter the harpsico. The 26-string instrument has three-anda-half octaves, weighs four pounds, comes in a rainbow of colors and is easy to carry. “It’s the perfect instrument for accompanying nursery rhymes,” she said. “After reading to the boys, they

look forward to my playing. I never imagined, though, that it would inspire them to dance! It just started emanating from them.” On a recent morning, Ms. McShane read Owl Babies by Martin Waddell. As she put the book down and picked up the harpsico, several of the students took to the center of the circle to dance. “I love music and dancing,” said Jack Chioffi ’25, a member of the class who can do a magnificent arabesque with the best of them. “I

love the rhythm of the harp, too. It makes me feel like I just want to get up and dance.” Shai Niv, his classmate, joined him in the center of the rug. “My big sister used to go to ballet class, so whenever I hear the harp I feel like dancing,” he added. As the boys twirled before her, Ms. McShane whispered, “Wouldn’t life be wonderful if every day included being read to and dancing to the harp?” —Bonni Brodnick

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

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A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A BRUNSWICK BOY: Snow Day! Matthew LaVersa, a Brunswick 7th grader, is a contributor to the Greenwich Cartooning Chronicles. In September 2011, he was recognized by Greenwich Citizen as “Cartoonist of the Week.”

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

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Mr. Cosby’s Portrait Mr. Cosby’s portrait beams. The burnished face shines at brow and chin, laugh lines at eyes, an upturned sail of teeth. He recognizes you as you pass by from lunch; he’s perched under Upper School stairs. Painted in a morning yellow gym, the blurred lines of hard equipment his background, he’s grounded, gold-framed, a greeter, a familiar face on the wall who manages to walk along with you. —Jeanne DeLarm-Neri, Accounting Specialist, Business Office

It’s all in the Statistics & Data Analysis Michael Allwood, Chair of the Mathematics Department and Upper School Math teacher, has all the answers. After 13 months of writing, he has completed a new solutions manual to the problems in the textbook, Introduction to Statistics and Data Analysis by Peck, Olsen and Devore. The book is used by a large number of high schools and colleges across the country, including Brunswick. “It was a lot of work, quite a slog, but well worth the trouble,” said Mr. Allwood. “I calculated that I had to do 25 solutions per week in order to get the work completed in the time given to me by the publishers. This was fine for the first few chapters, but in the latter part of the book the questions get very long indeed, with multiple parts, loads of graphs and long and involved calculations. “Somehow I managed to get through it … and now this solutions manual is proving to be a valuable resource in my AP Statistics class.” —Bonni Brodnick

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

BRUINS

Compiled By Diana samponaro Athletics Coordinator

BRUNSWICK

All photos by Dan Burns (unless otherwise noted)

Water Polo

BY ERIC TILLMAN, HEAD WATER POLO COACH. UPPER SCHOOL ENGLISH TEACHER

The 2011 version of Brunswick water polo featured a revamped offense full of freshmen and sophomores. After losing five starters who accounted for over 80 percent of our offense in the 2010 season, we were concerned about who on the 2011 squad would score our goals. Fortunately, the combination of strong leadership from our Co-Captains Sperry Edwards ’12 and David Fitzpatrick ’12 and gritty play from our younger players filled the vacuum on our way to an 8–9 record. The boys swam hard and steadily made progress as we have begun to earn the respect of the more established programs in the New England Prep School League. Highlights of the season include an early win over Williston Northampton, a comeback victory over Trinity, a Homecoming win over Loomis, a last second win over Staples to finish the season, as well as close games with New England rivals Andover, Hotchkiss and Suffield. 2011 Brunswick water polo received standout performances from a number of people beginning with Edwards, Hole-D Connor Kupersmith ’13, Hole Set Matt Marvin ’15 and Goalie Sander Profaci ’13. Scoring goals and contributing to our optimistic view of the future were Emmet McElwreath ’14, Joe Caruso ’13, Holden Fett ’13, Grant Pierce ’15, Alex Prout ’15, Julian Ronda ’15, Craig Ruzika ’12, Pat Stefanou ’16 and Tommy Tranfo ’14. At our end-of-season team banquet, Edwards, Fitzpatrick, Kupersmith and Profaci were honored with Coaches Awards for their significant contributions to Brunswick water polo. Additionally, Kupersmith and Profaci garnered All-New England status, and USA Water Polo named Profaci as an Academic All-America. As our freshman and sophomore players mature, and our Middle School boys who are in the pipelines grow, we are confident that our young program will continue to develop, and we will soon contend for a New England title. Coaches Eric Tillman, Ulmis Iordache and Bill Smith want to thank everyone involved in our success. Without parent support, we would not be the team that we are, or will be.

Crew

By John Martin, Assistant Rowing Coach, Upper School English Teacher

Fall Crew had a highly successful 2011 campaign. This extremely cohesive team focused on technical development along with gains in strength and fitness, which led them to impressive race results. A record-high 41 boys took to the Mianus River in Cos Cob on a daily basis, working hard to prepare for the fall circuit of longer “head-style” races. Senior Captains Graham Miller ’12, Caleb Moran ’12 and Jack Williams ’12, each four-year members of the rowing team, provided experienced leadership. The highlight of the season is always the Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston. Coach Joe Falco’s Varsity Eight (Tobin Saer ’13, Matt Podlesak ’13, Michael Chronert ’12, Max Heiden ’12, Miller, Williams, Peter Rogan ’13, Rex Johnson ’12 and Corey Juan ’12) had a strong showing, finishing 20th in the field of 75 crews. The duo of Mac Singer ’12 and Jack Costello ’12 took 36th place in the doubles race. The squad also raced at five other large regattas: the Head of the Housatonic, Head of the Connecticut, Head of the Riverfront, Philadelphia Frostbite Regatta and the Bill Braxton Memorial Regatta. Brunswick boats came home with medals from each of these five events, hauling in an impressive total of nine gold, one silver and four bronze medals in various boat categories.

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

BRUINS BRUNSWICK

Times of Brunswick | winter 2012

Football

By Jarrett Shine ’92, head football coach, director of alumni relations

When talking about life lessons learned on the football field, it is definitely a theory that holds true for our season this year. If something could have gone wrong to set our team back week by week, it surely did happen. Yet, there is always a silver lining behind every struggle. Adversity is always unavoidable: it will happen, but it will always define one’s character. The Bruins football season was nothing short of adversity. We came into it expecting to have a chance to win our conference. We were confident and it showed from day one. As a result of injuries and playing inexperienced players from the start, we failed to win many games, but certainly improved as the season progressed. The last two games of the season provided much excitement as we beat an old rival Hopkins by a large margin, proving that we didn’t belong in our old league. We hung in there during a close battle with Trinity-Pawling in the last game of the season proving that we can play in the new league. The Bruins ended the season feeling positive about our future and confident that next year’s team will be successful. The leadership from Seniors Captain Donqutae Robinson, Captain Dylan Troy, Joe Beninati, Eddie DeDomenico, Will Hayden, Brandon Muto, Nile Rabb, Brian Schutzman, Bradley Seaton and Jack Voigt was outstanding. We look forward to the new leadership in rising Seniors Addison Pierce, Willy Rosato and Dylan Wadsworth to hopefully lead us to a New England Championship in 2012. Go ’Wick!

Cross Country

By Steve Polikoff, head cross country Coach, Middle school history teacher

MATT SAVITT ’12

Peter Geithner ’12 Leads the Pack

Cross Country Senior Captain Peter Geithner captured both the FAA individual title and the coveted New England Division I title during the 2011 CrossCountry season. In the New England race at Phillips Andover Academy in Andover, Mass., Geithner won the 3.1-mile race in Brunswick record time of 15:58, topping his previous record of 15:59.6, set just one week before at the FAA meet.

The reward for the Brunswick cross country team, following back-to-back New England Division II titles in 2009 and 2010, was a promotion to Division I status beginning in 2011. With so much talent lost to our 2011 graduation class, the task was expected to be a daunting one. Though reality would prove different. The harriers would take to the new trails and new lockers with more promise than expectation. The season began as a question mark, without a clear hierarchy of running talent, but quickly took the shape as an exclamation point. The character of this team was forged somewhere between the mountain lion sighting, the hurricane warning of early September, and the blizzard of late October, and its success would be no less surprising. Senior Captains Peter Geithner, Jake Matthews and Will Peisch, joined by fellow Seniors Brendan Bozorgmir, Andrew Camel, Matthew Cassoli, Alex Drakos, Teddy Lamont, Devin Mehra, Charlie Miller, Robbie Rovelli, Jack Schneider, Kip Werner and Ben Young found company in the youth movement of sophomore Kyle Chen and a freshmen class which is not only our largest class, but also a valuable one, earning the moniker of “fast and furious.” The regular season included only two losses to GFA en route to a record of 18–2 and a postseason FAA league tournament title, the first since 2005. Geithner led the Bruins to the league title, setting a new school record for 5K in the process, while the entire lineup earned All-League or Honorable Mention status. The trip to Andover for the Division I New England race and Brunswick’s first appearance in this competitive venue began with much optimism, and the team did not disappoint, earning a respectable 8th place along with recognition within the running community. Indeed, the story of that day—and possibly the season—was Geithner’s “unexpected” dominance in the field, which would serve as a microcosm of this campaign. Geithner placed himself within the trio who broke from the pack at the start. He made his move halfway through the race at the top of the downhill, opened a small gap by the 2-mile mark, and then owned the hill to put a 13-second lead on the field en route to victory, breaking his own school record with a time of 15:58. Teammate Christian Tanner ’15 finished 20th to achieve All-New England honors. Significant personal best times were garnered by fellow freshmen Will Berczuk ’15 and Parker Stitzer ’15. The Bruins’ Peisch, Chen and Matthews completed the lineup and proved Brunswick cross country belongs at this level. Assistant Coach Dwight Jackson was a great help throughout the season. Any and all who agree that hard work alone can be the single best determiner of achievement would also admit that the Brunswick 2011 XC season was not so surprising after all.

MATT SAVITT ’12

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BRUINS

Soccer

BRUNSWICK

Times of Brunswick | winter 2012

By Power fraser ’74, Head Soccer Coach, Assistant Director of athletics

With Head Coach Power Fraser and Assistant Coach Tucker Hastings at the helm, the 2011 Brunswick varsity soccer season’s eight victories is the highest win total since the program’s move to Class A. While we missed a return trip to the NEPSAC Class A tournament by the slimmest of margins, wins over powerhouse Kent and #1 Hotchkiss were outstanding and clear evidence that the level of play on the field was as good as that of any Brunswick team. The annual preseason trip to Camp Lenox in August helped form the cohesive unit that would be tested immediately by the most challenging of schedules. Brunswick’s early win against Deerfield and soon thereafter ones against Gunnery, Kent and Trinity-Pawling, indicated that the team was primed for success. Even though the near misses against Choate and Avon proved vexing, they were well played nonetheless. The final third of the season was the most successful: the team finished on a streak of 3–0–1, tying Worcester while beating Hopkins and Westminster. Arguably one of the finest performances in any sport recently at Brunswick, the 2–1 victory versus aforementioned New England titan Hotchkiss will not soon be forgotten. Finishing under the lights on a dark November afternoon, we scored a goal with 18 seconds to play in front of an enthralled crowd. Captains Cooper Briggs ’12 and Patrick Figgie ’12 showed each and every day what it meant both to work towards an objective and how to achieve it. Each was named WNEPSSA All-Star for their stellar play. Twelve Seniors were the core of this team: Goaltender Curt Townshend inspired confidence in his teammates; Luis Cobb and Michael McQuiston provided toughness and high-paced north-south play in the outside midfield; Jay Wong started at striker for the entire year and scored key goals down the stretch as did offensive wizard, Manuel Jurado; Nick Bartlett and Luke Esposito, a longtime duo in the central midfield, attacked and defended at the highest of levels; Charlie Castine and Brad Hanson were rarely beaten on the outside and provided a dangerous element to the attack in the final third. With an inspired start to the season, and with great competition at the end, there was much to be impressed by with this year’s squad. With veteran talent provided by the Seniors and immense contributions by the likes of junior Peter Khoury and sophomores Frankie Agrest and Harry Heffernan, the year’s side from Brunswick was committed to playing for 90 minutes every Wednesday and Saturday.

FALL 2011 ALL-LEAGUE & SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARDS CROSS COUNTRY All New England.................................................... Peter Geithner ’12, Christian Tanner ’15 FAA All-League Selections...................................... Peter Geithner ’12, Parker Stitzer ’15, Christian Tanner ’15 FAA Honorable Mention....................................... Will Berczuk ’15, Kyle Chen ’14, Jake Matthews ’12, Will Peisch ’12 MVP Winner......................................................... Peter Geithner ’12 Most Improved...................................................... Will Berczuk ’15, Kyle Chen ’14 Sportsmanship Award............................................. Chase Stitzer ’15 Rookie of the Year Award....................................... Christian Tanner ’15 Senior Citizens Awards........................................... Matthew Cassoli ’12, Devin Mehra ’12 Coaches Award....................................................... Jake Matthews ’12, Parker Stitzer ’15

FOOTBALL All New England.................................................... Donqutae Robinson ’12 Erikson All-League................................................. Donqutae Robinson ’12, Bradley Seaton ’12 Norm Pedersen Award (MVP)................................ Donqutae Robinson ’12 Joe Reimer Special Teams Award............................ Jack Voigt ’12 Bruin of the Year.................................................... Addison Pierce ’12 Best Senior Lineman ............................................. Bradley Seaton ’12 Most Improved Players........................................... Brandon Muto ’12, Willie Rosato ’13 Rookie of the Year.................................................. Henry Taylor ’14 Comeback Player of the Year.................................. Joe Beninati ’12

SOCCER WNEPSSA Select Team......................................... Patrick Figgie ’12 WNEPSSA Honorable Mention............................ Cooper Briggs ’12 CSCA All State Team............................................. Patrick Figgie ’12 James Brown Award............................................... Patrick Figgie ’12 Coaches Awards..................................................... Frankie Agrest ’14, Nick Bartlett ’12, Cooper Briggs ’12, Peter Khoury ’13 Three Year Varsity Lettermen................................. Nick Bartlett ’12, Cooper Briggs ’12, Luke Esposito ’12, Patrick Figgie ’12, Brad Hanson ’12, Jay Wong ’12

WATER POLO Coaches Awards..................................................... Sperry Edwards ’12, David Fitzpatrick ’12, Connor Kupersmith ’13, Sander Profaci ’13

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BRUNSWICK 2.0 By Amy Kundrat, Director of New Media

Wel come to Our B lo gosphe re Brunswick’s blogs are a great way to share news, promote events and foster engagement across School’s divisions. With eight ’Wick blogs and counting, they are becoming an increasingly effective and interactive way for students and faculty to communicate within and beyond our community. Independent school resource Edublog captures the growing popularity of blogs among independent schools, stating, “… Blogs strike the perfect balance of providing information anytime and anywhere, social networking and interaction, and the ability to openly share thoughts and achievements.” Each Brunswick blog begins as a topic that a student or faculty member is passionate about sharing with the community, or an idea that a webpage simply can’t contain. For example, last fall I began fielding requests from each library division to share their various news and events. It became clear by the volume of responses that a webpage or a regular mass email couldn’t begin to meet this need. New books in the library, author events and photos have culminated in WickReads.BrunswickSchool.org, a dynamic home for happenings in Brunswick’s libraries that students and faculty members from the Lower, Middle and Upper School update. Each blog is maintained in tandem with a faculty and/or student lead, and with me as a technical support as well as a bit of a wrangler. With varying degrees of technical know-how, we work together to design and launch the blog and then craft an editorial voice for the content. Blogs are most effective when updated frequently, which is why we not only try to share news, but aim to do so as often as possible. Each blog has comment moderation, meaning that comments by an outside reader are sent to a queue where they are approved before being published. To follow our blogs, please go to our website: BrunswickSchool.org. Hit the “About Brunswick” tab on the left of the homepage, and go to the “Blogs/ Connect” tab. Welcome to Brunswick’s blogosphere!

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

Our Brunswick blogs, to date, include the folowing: Alumni.BrunswickSchool.org—Class notes, alumni features and current Brunswick news aimed at our active alumni spanning the decades. Chronicle.BrunswickSchool.org—The Chronicle students staff at the Upper School features information on campus news, sports and related activities. Community.BrunswickSchool.org—Community service news, events and opportunities across each division. Crew.BrunswickSchool.org—Interested in checking out the crew results from last week’s regatta? The crew coaches maintain this blog that shares race results, student news and photos during both the fall and spring seasons. Headmaster.BrunswickSchool.org—From the desk of Headmaster Thomas Philip, this blog captures the perspective of the Headmaster through the lens of his monthly newsletter to students and parents. VisualArts.BrunswickSchool.org—An online portfolio of AP visual arts students at the Upper School. WaterPolo.BrunswickSchool.org—Dedicated to the sport of water polo, the coach maintains the blog during the sport’s fall season by sharing scores, photos and team news. WickReads.BrunswickSchool.org—Library news and events, summer reading lists, book reviews, recommended books and more from the librarians and Middle School students at Brunswick. Have an idea for a blog or a suggestion for a Brunswick topic or sport you’d like to hear more about? Email me at akundrat@brunswickschool.org.

Brunswick Alumni

The 2011 Annual Alumni Thanksgiving Skate & Squash

With many in town for Thanksgiving weekend, the annual Alumni Skate & Squash always attracts hockey and squash players from all classes. This year, there were 26 alumni hockey players competing in an intense game split evenly between the Gold and the Black teams. With 4 minutes left to play in the game, the score was a close 5–4. To shake it up, the Gold team broke it open, and the game ended with them winning 7–4. On the squash courts, 20 players (comprised of both alumni and ’Wick Varsity A & B players) teamed up. Many have continued their court conquests and play on college teams at Yale, UPenn, Middlebury, Princeton, Trinity, Cornell and UNC.

BRUNSWICK ALUMNI

Brunswick Alumni Holiday Part y in NYC

On a clear early December evening, things got a little nauti-and-nice at the 3rd Annual New York Alumni Holiday Gathering at the New York Yacht Club. Amidst the hulls, masts and models, Brunswick and GA alums gathered to celebrate the season with Headmaster Tom Philip, GA Head of School Molly King, friends and faculty. “It’s great to see Brunswick and GA alums coming together for this festive evening,” said Mr. Philip. “We especially welcome Malcolm Pray from the Class of ’46.” Alex Smith ’60 came all the way from Mexico and enjoyed meeting up with Robert Steinberg ’60, lifelong friend and business partner. Recent attendees of their 50th reunion, Robert mentioned, “I felt like I got to know old friends even better than when we went to school together.” “Our graduating class of 1960 had 36 students,” he continued. “Tuition was about $900 and I remember everyone at the School being so caring—from teachers to the maintenance and dining hall staffs. “The Brunswick phrase, ‘With All Thy Getting, Get Understanding,’ had great impact on me,” he continued. “Besides academics, the School taught me about loyalty and camaraderie. The School created an incredibly supportive and protective environment. When I saw my friends at the last reunion, we still felt close after 50 years.” Joe Bruno ’87, who drove in from Foxboro, Mass., for the yuletide event, was also happy to recall Brunswick past. “The camaraderie at ’Wick, on the sports side, was great. The education was amazing. “I wrote my Boston College essay on bettering myself and the importance of education,” he said. “Brunswick instilled in me both the desire to learn and the love of learning.” “The alumni holiday party is great opportunity to reconnect with people I haven’t seen in a long time,” added John Duffy ’01. “And it’s always fun to hear some of the teachers tell stories that I can’t even remember.” The evening took on a new dimension as photos were flashed on a large screen and party highlights were tweeted on Twitter (@Brunswick1902 and @BrunswickBruins). As our School continues to find new avenues of communication … via Times of Brunswick, BrunswickSchool.org, email, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and the U.S. Postal Service … you can be assured that Jarrett Shine (Director of Alumni Relations) and Libby Edwards (Alumni & Special Events Coordinator) remain just a phone call away at 203.625.5864. Photos by Diane Briggs

BRUNSWICK ALUMNI

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

Homecoming 2011 Blue Skies, Sunshine & Lots of Reminiscing By Bonni Brodnick

runswick Homecoming = rain (generally). For the past seven years, we’ve experienced inclement weather for at least part of the weekend. Last fall, we are happy to report that, by Saturday, the rain cleared and it was blue skies for all festivities. We had 60 degrees at kickoff for the varsity football game on Robert L. Cosby Field. With winds out of the east at 22 mph, gusting up to 40 mph, it was a perfect day for alumni and current students, past and current parents and longtime Brunswick friends to get together to enjoy the company, the view, the food, the fun and the hang time that keeps everyone coming back every fall. “It brings back so many good memories to be on campus,” said Phaethon Bolton ’06, who landed at Wake Forest playing Division I basketball. “It’s great to see the changes in the last five years. Brunswick keeps getting better and better.” “The school shaped my life and honestly gave me my foundation,” he continued. “One of my goals is to use my story of walking onto the Wake Forest basketball team as inspiration for other students who dream of playing at the Div. I level.” Chuck Redahan, the Director of King Street Maintenance, and his amazing crew, transformed Burke Field House into a resplendent autumnal setting with pumpkins, mums and balloons in our school colors of yellow and

brown. Bear Fair Co-Chairs Tiffany Burnette and Maine Park coordinated over 200 volunteers and 232 shifts to bring hours of fun to young Bruins. Current students and children of alumni who had luck on their side with Bingo and Wheel of Fortune took home cool prizes like Rock’em Sock’em Robots, Twister, Fuzzoodles, Bionicle and Hullaballoo. Other “action” games at Bear Fair were especially creative this year. Ever Tip-A-Troll? Bash-a-Bully? Toss a pizza like a Frisbee? Players were enthralled when they made a winning pitch that brought them to a colorful prize table to choose ring pops, fake plastic cell phones, x-ray fish and lots of other bells and whistles. Many thanks to the volunteer moms and dads for their patience as children traded in their winning tickets. Much gratitude, too, to Frank Acello (father of Paul ’18) for, once again, spinning pink in his usual place. “I’m the cotton candy man who has tenure,” said the 5-year veteran who is a master with candy floss and the centrifugal force. Mr. Acello can spin more than 1,000 cones in one afternoon. Brunswick Food Service Director Herberth Melgar and Executive Chef Billy LeVasseur cooked up an America-themed menu with Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, BBQ chicken, chili, hamburgers and hot dogs. Their team of 22 served more than 3,000 hot dogs, 320 pounds

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

of BBQ chicken, 3,000 hamburgers and 15 30-pound cases of French fries. It appears that Bruins also like their hamburgers with onions: more than 50 pounds were sliced and diced. The Brunswick Bookstore table did a swift business with tote bags, fleeces and other branded apparel like shirts, sweatpants and sweatshirts. “It’s so much fun to see the alums come back and buy things for their children,” said Martha Durkin, Upper School Bookstore Manager. Kim Iorillo, 4th grade teacher, organized a registration table and screen station for Be The Match organization. As a bone marrow donor herself, she was eager to share her enthusiasm about how simple it is to not only give hope to a patient with such diseases as leukemia or lymphoma, but to have the real possibility of curing them. (See feature story on page 10.) During halftime of the football game vs. Berkshire School, we caught up with the 4th grade water boys who were scurrying to refresh their Bruins big brothers. “It’s really fun to be a water boy because you get high-fives from the team,” said James Galef from the sidelines of Robert L. Cosby Field. “I signed up to be a water boy, hoped for the best, and got selected,” added classmate Zach Russell. When asked what he loves about being

a Brunswick boy, he was quick to respond, “The teachers are great. I just love it here.” Along with many special attendees from near and far, we were delighted to see Esmé Dick (wife of former Brunswick faculty member, Bill Dick) at Homecoming. Tom Zimmerman ’71, who came to celebrate his 40th reunion, wore his oneof-a-kind baseball cap. Every inch is filled with buttons dating from Tom’s 5th-year reunion. “I come back to every single one,” he said. “I knew Brunswick was a special place when I went here, but being away from it for a few years makes me appreciate it even more,” said Zach Hascoe ’06. “I can’t go back to college and hug a teacher like I can here,” he continued as he stood with Paul Withstandley, his former Spanish teacher and senior class dean. “It’s really like family here.” David Neff ’94 mentioned how his class year always has a great showing at Homecoming. “The trick is to always connect alums back to the School,” added Jimmy Ritman ’94 class agent. “Keeping classmates connected and remembering what resonates with them—be it a teacher, a class or a sport—is important. Coming back to reminisce with friends is, actually, one of the greatest things about Homecoming.” j

“I knew Brunswick was a special place when I went here, but being away from it for a few years makes me appreciate it even more.” —Zach Hascoe ’06

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

The 2011 Distinguished Alumni Award:

Power Fraser ’74 By Mike Harris, Upper School Math Teacher

ver its 109year history, Brunswick has been blessed with many outstanding teachers, coaches and athletes, but the number of people who have filled all three of those roles is minuscule. Last year’s winner of the 2011 Distinguished Alumni Award, Power Fraser ’74, has been either a student or faculty member at Brunswick for nearly a third of the school’s entire existence. Although the breadth of his tenure is remarkable, Power is deserving of recognition for the myriad outstanding qualities he brings to our school community. As an athlete, Power cut an impressive swath through his school days as he played football, basketball and baseball. One of the best athletes to ever put on a Brunswick uniform, he has also been a valuable member of the Middle School faculty and has coached three different varsity sports.

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

“Power was the consummate gentleman athlete,” recalled his childhood friend and Brunswick classmate, Gary Oztemel ’75. “He was also a great athlete … always a good sport and a fair competitor. Power was respected and well liked by all of his teammates, coaches, competitors and refs. I don’t remember him losing his cool, ever.” “The Frasers were part of the Brunswick fabric during the 1970s,” said Bill Durkin ’72, Chairman of the Board. Along with his family being longtime friends of the Frasers, Bill and his brothers were classmates of Power and his brother, Peter ’76. “The Frasers were dominant on the court and playing fields,” Bill continued. “Power’s dad, Power Sr., served on the Board of Trustees. His mom, Arlene, was a fixture on the sidelines and always ready to lend a hand.” Power has enjoyed great success as a coach at Brunswick, both in terms of wins and losses, as well as in the positive relationships he has forged with the countless

players he has mentored. Just last fall, Power guided the boys’ varsity soccer team to its first-ever appearance in the Class A WNEPSSA tournament. More importantly, he consistently, and above all else, models and promotes the values of camaraderie, sportsmanship and fair play. “I am a better coach, teacher and human being for having been Power’s colleague, neighbor and friend,” said veteran coach and Upper School English teacher Eric Tillman. Colleague and Head of Brunswick Middle School, Sarah Burdett, shared: “Power is a dedicated Middle School adviser and teacher. He knows from both instinct and experience as an alumnus, a parent, a teacher, a coach and an adviser how to motivate his advisees to perform their best in the classroom, on the sports field and in their interactions with each other. Power is, and has always been, passionate about guiding our young men to be their best in all areas of Brunswick School life, and we are fortunate for his presence.” Power Fraser embodies our School motto, “Courage, Honor, Truth.” His integrity, humility and loyalty make him a standout individual in all he does. It is with pride that our school recognizes him with the 2011 Distinguished Alumni Award. Congratulations to Power, his wife, Liz, and their two sons, Daniel ’11 and Sam ’13. j

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

Alumni Golf Outing Swing Hard. Take Chances. Stay Dry. By Bonni Brodnick

t wouldn’t be Homecoming weekend without a little rain. And at times, a lot of it. That was the “sitch” at The Griff on the morning of the 11th Annual Homecoming Golf Outing. If alums weren’t dodging fores, they were dodging raindrops. When it looked like the storm had passed, fog rolled over the autumn landscape. A ray of sunshine poked through the knotted sky. And then it rained. Again. Never letting foul weather dampen their spirits, Brunswick alums showed fortitude and prowess as they made their way around the 18-hole course. Before setting off for their first round in seasonally chic pumpkin-orange golf carts, Times of Brunswick caught up with brothers Benerofe (Andy ’57 and Mitch ’60) who eagerly looked forward to an afternoon of golf. “I have very fond memories of Brunswick,” Mitch reminisced. He cited the lifelong influence of Charles Sword (his Upper School English

teacher) and Thomas Shields (assistant headmaster and Upper School Math teacher). “They were great teachers and mentors.” We missed Rick Ford ’75 who couldn’t make it because of a pending performance in Twelfth Night at Westport Country Play House. At the putting green, we interrupted a backswing to ask his brother, Christopher ’81, a party DJ music mixologist, for his expertise on the hottest songs and hugest bands for dancing. “‘Moves Like Jagger,’ by Maroon 5 and ‘You Make Me Feel’ by Cobra Starship,” he assured us. “Katy Perry, Pitbull and Broken Bells also have cool music. But my new favorite band is Robbers On High Street, a power pop band from Brooklyn that sounds like The Jam, Style Council, The Monkees and The Beatles all rolled into one sound. They have a fun, dancey new rock album.” Next on the putting green was the unflappable Chris Pavelic ’78.

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

“When the grounds are wet, you can go after the putt more because the ball is slowed down,” he said. “As long as it doesn’t rain, it’s actually a good day for golfing.” For Thomas Toepke ’99, the golf outing was a breeze compared to the marathon he would have the following day. As a runner in the Avon Walk, he looked forward to a 26.2 full marathon distance on Saturday and a 13.1 half-marathon on Sunday. (See “Class Notes,” p.53) “The Alumni Golf Outing is my ‘mental health day’ before the marathon,” he said. “This is my fun day.” It was a fashion blast from the past when we noticed that Eric Christianson ’77 was sporting his 1st Annual Golf Outing T-shirt from 2001. “I love this outing,” he said. “You get to see all your old friends and have a great time. That’s about all you can ask for, isn’t it?” As awesome foursomes made their way around the course, we heard approaching music. Was it thunder? Could the Greenwich Mountain Lion be lurking? No. It was Chris Day ’81 with a mini-iPod rocking in his pocket. “We’ve got a little country music going on here,” he said. “It’s music to golf by. I call it the

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

‘Life Mix.’ There’s fast, slow, valleys and peaks. Just like life.” Back in the clubhouse, the room was filled with camaraderie, laughter and soggy golfers. Their collective mantra for the day was “Swing Hard. Take Chances. Stay Dry.” “I appreciate you all being here, and I know the School does as well,” said Gary Oztemel ’75, the brainchild behind initiating the golf outing eleven years ago. “Many thanks, also, to Joe Felder (golf pro at The Griff ) and the Brunswick Alumni/Development Office for coordinating and hosting the event. “The School is doing a lot to get great teachers and it’s the boys who benefit. Brunswick has really earned our support,” he continued. Bill Durkin ’72, Chairman of the Board, thanked everyone for returning to ’Wick for Homecoming. He also acknowledged the 50-year spread of alums on the course—from Andy Benerofe ’57 to Chris Harris ’07. The Alumni Office is ahead of the game by already air mailing a request for a sunny day at next year’s golf outing. Date forthcoming. Keep umbrella handy. (Just in case.) j

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

Brunswick Heritage Project By Bonni Brodnick

he 2nd Annual Alumni Association Party, held on the Friday of Homecoming weekend, was well attended by alums coming from as far as Las Vegas to see old friends and familiar faces. In Headmaster Tom Philip’s welcome address to those assembled in the Upper School glass atrium, he noted how 6 percent of our full-time faculty, and 30 percent of our current trustees are alums. “This high percentage is unique to Brunswick and shows how important our alumni are to the success of our School,” he said. “These are gentlemen who have, literally, dedicated their lives to Brunswick and our boys.”

The laudable list includes:

Faculty Richard Beattie ’80 Sasha Bulazel ’83 Brian Coughlin ’94 Josh Duennebier ’99 Power Fraser ’74 Mike Hannigan ’01 Michael Kennedy ’99 Brian Shepard, ’97 Jarrett Shine ’92 Charlie Tashjian ’05

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

Trustees Bill Durkin III ’72 Chairman B. Cort Delany ’73 Greg Hartch ’88 John Harvey ’84 Ian Murray ’93 Shepherd Murray ’89 Tom O’Malley Jr. ’85 Bill Schneider ’72

The alumni gathering also celebrated the unveiling of the Brunswick Heritage Project. The initiative, which was launched simultaneously with the new Brunswick photo archives project, is an effort to preserve Brunswick’s history of more than 100 years of “Courage, Honor, Truth.” The heritage project exhibit, which utilizes archival photos dating back as far as 1910, includes window collages, plexi-glass display panels and hanging banners. In addition, there are three-dimensional plexi-glass display cases that now hold some of Brunswick’s most distinguished awards, trophies and cups, including the Thomas Altman Prize, Brunswick Alumni Cup, Community Service Award, Brunswick Parents’ Association Award, Robert L. Cosby Award, Everett Award, Geis Trophy, Headmaster Trophy, Jenkins Athletic Award, Kulukundis Cup and Williamson Cup. Lists of recipients dating back to 1957 are noted in the displays so as to inspire current students. “I’m sure you agree how nice it is to come back to Brunswick and still feel so much a part of the School,” said Jon Ryckman ’88, president of the Alumni Association. “Thank you all for coming to this year’s Homecoming. We look forward to seeing you at more Brunswick alumni activities planned for the winter and spring.” j

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

class Notes Compiled by Libby Edwards & Leslie Lopez

The Brunswick football team, circa 1955, in Smith Garden on the Upper School campus. credit: keystone studio, greenwich, conn.

1955 Lenie and Bill Krauter and Sara and Ralph Risley enjoyed the festivities of the season at a Yale-Columbia holiday party. “Ralph and I are both happily retired in the Arizona sunshine,” writes Bill. Ralph Risley added, “Am very fortunate to live so close to Krauter. This is far less than 6-degrees of separation, especially given the size of our class. We see each other occasionally at the Columbia Club luncheons. “My wife Sara recently turned 73. Given the passage of time we are

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

both in good shape. We are currently involved in the third year of remodeling of our 11th house. Driving the design and work keeps us mentally and physically engaged. “From the two of us there are now 3 sons and 5 grandchildren. The multiplier effect really drives the economy. “My daughter-in-law is preparing an issues paper to run as an independent candidate for president under the AmericansElect.org venue. Anyone interested is seeing what this is all about can check the website. We will see where this leads.”

1961 Arthur Murphy writes in that he has finally retired! He also reports that his fellow classmate, Jon Saphier, is the founder and chairman of Teachers21 and Research for Better Teaching, two educational consulting organizations dedicated to the professionalization of teaching. Jon is an internationally recognized consultant on teacher induction, supervision and evaluation, staff development, core values and school culture.

CLASS NOTES

1962 Ross Ogden informed us that classmate Peter Dunn’s son, Andy, has fully recovered from a serious bout with cancer, and has been cancer-free for the last three years.

1966

Bill ’55 and Lenie Krauter with Ralph ’55 and Sarah Risley

In October, Dickerman Hollister Jr. M.D. was honored at the annual Gala for Greenwich Hospital that benefitted their Cancer Institute. Dickerman was the recipient of the President’s Award for his 30 years of dedicated service.

Peter Dunn ’62 and his son, Andy

Dickerman Hollister Jr. M.D. ’66 (left) accepting the President’s Award from Frank Corvina, Greenwich Hospital president and chief executive officer.

Class of 1981 30th Reunion. (Front row, left to right): Bill Aron, Chris Ford, Rick Pagnani,Teague Crocco, Gregg Delany, Andy Huntington; (middle row, left to right): Tom Bacon, Bill Douwes, Don Connor, Barend Van der Vorm, Neil Burger, Steven Helprin, Forbes Hopper, Bill Stowell, Matt Fahey, Phil McDonough, Bill Wright, James Cummisky; (back row, left to right): Joe Tranfo, Jim Stein, Chris Day. Katherine and Bill Aron generously hosted the reunion. ** To view photos of the combined Brunswick/Greenwich Academy Class of 1981 30th Reunion, please go to BrunswickSchool.org/alumni/reunions/class-of-1981/

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

CLASS NOTES

1983 Whit Sheppard, senior editor with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, N.C., is currently writing a 125-year history of the Horace Mann School in Riverdale, N.Y. Gregg Delany ’81 and his wife, Christie, are proud to announce the birth of their son, Breit Frith Delany, on August 17.

Keith Thomson’s ’83 novel, Once a Spy (Doubleday), made the New York Times best-seller list.

1985 Steve Leary was elected to Seat 1 of the Winter Park, Fla., city commission in last March, and was appointed vice-mayor in May. Steve and his wife, Caroline (Schiele) Leary (GA ’81), have triplets—Alexandra, Jack and William. Due to Winter Park’s proximity to the Orlando theme parks and convention facilities, the Learys see a number of alumni and friends throughout the year.

1988 Ian Mackinnon ’88 and his son, Edward Padraic.

Ian Mackinnon and his wife, Amy, welcomed the birth of their son, Edward Padraic, born on February 1.

1989 Addie, daughter of Matson Schwalm ’90 and his wife, Samantha, was born on January 5. [From Class Notes Editor: Apologies for incorrectly identifying Addie in Times of Brunswick summer 2011 issue.]

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

Pete Bevacqua left the USGA after nearly 10½ years (most recently as chief business officer) to join Creative Artists Agency (CAA) as the head of its global golf division. He writes, “CAA is headquartered in LA but I am based in NYC. Tiffany and I live in Bronxville, N.Y., with our

daughter, Sammy Wells (4), our son, Arthur William (19 months) and our fearless dog, Fredo.

1994 Luis A. Gonzalez-Bunster and his sister, Carolina (GA ’01), hosted the Walkabout Foundation’s first U.S. fund-raising event, the NYC premiere of The Way, a film written, directed and produced by Emilio Estevez and starring both him and his father, Martin Sheen. The evening was a tremendous success. President Bill Clinton was the keynote speaker, and celebrities Donna Karan, Ivanka Trump, Chelsea Clinton and Wyclef Jean were in attendance. With funds raised, the Walkabout Foundation was able to purchase 1,000 wheelchairs for those in need in Ghana, Malawi, Sudan, Kenya, Argentina and Colombia. (For more information, go to walkaboutfoundation.org.) Christopher Gugelmann married Margaret Wasilko in Rye, N.Y. Chris, who attended Kenyon College and received an M.B.A. from Georgetown University, is a real estate investment consultant in Manhattan.

1996 Jimmy Harris and his wife, Tracy, who live in Druid Hills, Ga., had their first child (a baby girl) this past November. Jimmy is a teaching golf professional at the Atlanta Athletic Club.

CLASS NOTES

Jarrett Shine ’92 (Director of Alumni Relations and Head Football Coach) and his wife, Kyna, proudly announce the birth of Bryce Ellington, born on October 27. His big brother, Landon, holds Bryce.

At the Walkabout Foundation’s film premiere of The Way. (Front row): Luis Gonzalez-Bunster ’94; (second row, left to right):Yorick van Wageningen, Deborah Kara Unger, Rolando Gonzalez-Bunster, Carolina GonzalezBunster (GA ’01), Emilio Estevez, David Alexanian and Martin Sheen

Brett Stephens ’94 and his wife, Lauren, joyfully announce the birth of Skylar Brooke, on June 15.

Steve Tusa ’93 and his wife, Aimee, welcome the birth of their son, Charles Stephen III, born on October 13. Proud grandfather is Charlie Tusa ’62.

John Alexander Flack III, son of John Flack ’94 and his wife, Abby, was born last March 21. “We are calling him Jax, short for John Alexander,” wrote his proud father.

Farley Towse ’95 and his wife, Kristin (left), announce the birth of their daughter, Ella Marguerite, on June 7. Holding the new arrival is proud grandmother, Joan.

looking Back We are pleased to launch the Brunswick Heritage Project in the Upper School atrium and look forward to upcoming exhibits that display our 109-year history to all who walk our halls. As we continue to augment our collection, please share archival photos and memorabilia that recall your days at Brunswick past. Much gratitude to Bill Durkin ’72 for bequeathing his baseball uniform, and to Jimmy Young ’89 for his three monogrammed sports jackets: Brunswick Wrestling/ Connecticut State Champions 1985; Brunswick FAA Soccer Champs League & Tourney 1987; Brunswick Wrestling/ Connecticut State Champions 1985 For more information on contributing or lending to our archival projects, please contact Libby Edwards in the Alumni/Development Office at 800.546.9425 or ledwards@brunswickschool.org.

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

CLASS NOTES

(above and right) Brian Shepard ’97, Associate Director of College Guidance and Upper School Art Teacher, wed Denise Penny on September 30, in Rye, N.Y. T.R. Shepard IV ’94 was best man, Ned Adams ’97 and Andrew Rosato ’97 were groomsmen. Also in attendance were Jeff Condon ’97, Tony Calabrese ’97, Jim Heekin ’97 and Chris Gugelmann ’94.

Shown here are Conor Flynn ’99, Grant Gyesky ’98, David Jamieson ’98, Byron Jamieson ’04, Justin Weinstein ’99, Josh Weinstein, Greg Vasey ’98, Cindy (Jamieson) Coscoros and Jeremy Weinstein.

One year later, David and Katherine welcomed their son, Samuel, who was born on October 1 in San Francisco.

Captain Kip Graham ’99 and his “crew” from the Class of 1999 pose in a photo booth at Kip’s wedding. Front row (left to right): George Hubbard and Deakin Bell; middle row (left to right): Greg Shenkman, Sal Taliercio, Brett Harriss, Mike Zarrilli and Tim Riemer; back row (left to right): Kip Graham and Zander Ross

Kip and his bride, Adriane Bennett MeVay, on their wedding day, October 15.

On September 18, 2010, ’Wick mates attended the wedding of David Jamieson ’98 and Katherine Armenta, in Kennebunkport, Maine.

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

CLASS NOTES

Thomas Toepke ’99 with his family at the 2011 Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in NYC. (Front row): Twin siblings Ella and Ben in the baby carriage (Lauren and Chris Toepke ’95’s children). (Middle row, left to right): Sarah (Thomas’s fiancée), Thomas, Chris and their mother, Beverley. (Back row, left to right): Lauren and Tom’s father, Utz Toepke.

1998 Todd Reynolds writes that he is now living and working in Manhattan with his wife of three years, Francis Montes de Oca.

Captain Ted Hubbard ’02 married Allison Johnston, on September 24, at the Ocean Club Resort in Indian Beach, N.C.

again this year.” Thomas was grateful for the encouragement from his family and many Brunswick buddies.

2000 Brendan Wallace founded Identified.com, an Internet company based in San Francisco.

1999 Kip Graham married Adriane Bennett MeVay on October 15 at Riverside Yacht Club. Tim Riemer was best man. Brunswick groomsmen included Mike Zarrilli, Greg Shenkman, Brett Harriss and Zander Ross. Thomas Toepke reports that the 2011 Avon Walk, which he did with his fiancée, Sarah, “was really great

2001 After almost four years living in India, Rana Kashyap moved back to the States to get his M.B.A. at Harvard. While oversees, he looked happy to be stateside, eating burgers and watching NFL, as well as participating in more ’Wick Alumni events.

2002 Captain Ted Hubbard is a Marine infantry officer assigned to Marine Barracks Washington as a silent drill platoon commander. He leads a 24 man rifle platoon that performs precision drill exhibitions. Ted served in Ramadi, Iraq, from October 2007–May 2008, and in the Helmand Province of Afghanistan from May–November 2009. He is a Boston College graduate. Ted’s mother, Bess Hubbard, is recently retired from Brunswick as assistant to Headmaster Tom Philip.

2nd ANNUAL spring Reunion WEEKEND Friday, May 4, & Saturday, May 5 Reunion Year for Classes Ending in 2 & 7 (details forthcoming)

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

CLASS NOTES

Digital Photos

We love pictures, and we like you to look good. Here are some tips for sending us digital photos that will look fantastic in print: • Set the photo size to 4 x 6 inches or larger, in 300 dpi. • Set your digital camera to the best photo setting. • Save files as JPG or TIF. • Identify everyone left to right in the photo and provide a caption. • Email photos as attachments to Libby Edwards at ledwards@brunswickschool.org. If you’d rather send a traditional print (made from a negative), we love them, too, but please send them on glossy paper. Matte prints and prints from digital photos do not scan well. We cannot reproduce photos from photocopies, magazines, or newsprint. Mail prints to: Libby Edwards Brunswick School Development/Alumni Office 100 Maher Avenue • Greenwich, CT 06830

2004 Several ’09 ’Wick Crew alums reunited over Thanksgiving break for a row on the Mianus River. (Left to right): Øivind Lorentzen, Taylor Black, Bridges King, Chan Mahaney, Toby Saer ’13, Lawrence Lopez ’10, Turner Smith and Ed Williams.

Michael Kristoff, co-wrote the script for Live at the Foxes Den. He directed the feature film, which shot in Los Angeles this past summer. Adam Gibbs and Peer Pedersen ’05 served as producers on the project that stars Jackson Rathbone (Twilight and Last Airbender fame), along with supporting roles from Bob Gunton (The Shawshank Redemption; TV series 24) and Michael Lerner (Elf; Barton Fink).

2010 The first King-Reibeisen Charity Open tennis tournament, coorganized by Sam King and Irwin Reibeisen, exceeded their expectations both in raising money and awareness for the American Cancer Society of Westchester. “Cancer has affected both of our families,” wrote Sam. “It was gratifying to see that our hard work was recognized by the community.” Sam, who currently attends Bowdoin College, estimated that 200–300 people attended the threeday event that took place in Augusta, Ga. Brunswick Varsity Tennis Coach George Boynton helped run the pre-tournament clinic that was attended by current ’Wick players Robbie Rovelli ’12 and Monty Yort ’13. For more information, please visit charitytennistournament.com. Sam also won a Flight Tournament at Stony Brook University last fall.

2011 Kyle Wolstencroft won a Flight Tournament at Bates College in the fall. He is currently attending Bowdoin College.

At the King-Reibeisen Charity Open tennis tournament, co-organized by Sam King ’11 (left) and Irwin Reibeisen

HOMECOMING WEEKEND Friday, September 28 (Alumni Golf Outing & 3rd Annual Alumni Association Party) and Saturday, September 29 (Alumni Soccer & Flag Football Games, Homecoming on King Street & Alumni/Faculty Tent Party). For more information, contact Libby Edwards at ledwards@brunswickschool.org or 800.546.9425.

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

CLASS NOTES

Faculty Notes Bob Benjamin, Upper School English teacher, is currently serving as Lieutenant Colonel Chief SPO Mobility for the Joint Sustainment Command-Afghanistan. “My job includes supervising surface movements, aerial delivery, contracted air services and container management in support of our warfighters. In addition to the sustainment fight, we are also planning for the reverse surge to comply with President Obama’s troop level directive, so things here are pretty busy! Looking forward to getting back to Brunswick for the 2012– 2013 academic year.” The Rev. Thomas Nins, Assistant Director of Diversity, received a Doctorate of Ministry Degree from New York Theological Seminary. Nins writes, “Jerome Fleishman said, ‘Most of us, swimming against the tides of trouble the world knows nothing about, need only a bit of praise or encouragement—and we’ll gain one more stroke, take one more breath and, ultimately, reach the goal.’ Each of you, quite possibly without knowing, helped me reach this goal, one breath, and one stroke at a time. Thank you for your unique gifts. Thank you especially for moments of extraordinary encouragement and grace along the way.”

“Greetings from Kandahar!” Bob Benjamin, Upper School English teacher, serving our country in Afghanistan.

Taylor Donovan, daughter of David and Krista Bruce, was born July 12. Big brother is Braxton (3). David is Director of Financial Aid and Math teacher. Krista is Brunswick’s Director of Annual Giving.

Caroline Mendelson, daughter of Marcus Chioffi and his wife, Joan, was born on July 13. Caroline is shown here with her older brother Jack ’25. Marcus teaches history at the Middle School.

Saira Yasoda, daughter of former Lower School Assistant teacher Aparna Vasudevan and her husband, Aanand, was born July 2. Her proud twin brothers are Dhruv and Tejas (7).

Lane Elise, daughter of Stephen Garnett and his wife, Claire, was born on August 11. Steve is Director of Upper School Admissions and English teacher.

Laura Anne, daughter of Guy Pratt and his wife, Jennifer, was born in June 7. Laura wore her Bruins hat at Homecoming in October. Guy is an Upper School Science teacher and Sustainability Coordinator.

Winter 2012 | Times of Brunswick

CLASS NOTES

Michael James, son of Kirsten Dinkels and her husband, Mike, was born on September 30. Proud big sisters are Elizabeth and Addison. Kirsten is the Director of Assistant Teacher Program.

Liam Henry, son of Shane Kirsch and his wife, Laurissa Strouth, was born on July 15. Older brothers are Gavin and Dylan ’23 holding their new little brother. Shane is director of Instrumental Music in the Upper School.

Andrea McGraw and Marc Strileckis were married on August 6. Andrea teaches fifth grade and Mark is assistant director of athletics. Former Brunswick faculty member, Matt Serieys, was a groomsman.

in memoriam Bradford Black ’05, beloved son of Debbie and Steve Black, passed away at the age of 24 on June 23. Brad attended Brunswick School and Greenwich High School before completing his bachelor’s degree at Washington State University. He loved drawing, creating cartoons and was particularly adept at innovative computer programming. With his contagious smile, Brad never failed to make those around him laugh. In the last year he had rediscovered his lifelong passion for food and was pursuing a diploma at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Los Angeles. He was so proud of his creations, frequently emailing photos of his dishes to his family and friends. In addition to his parents, Brad is survived by his sister, Heather (GA ’06); his brother, Taylor ’09; his paternal and maternal grandparents, along with many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Times of Brunswick | Winter 2012

Henry Ward Heaviside ’62, died on August 21 at the age of 67 in Charlotte, N.C. Ward, as he was known, was predeceased by his father, Robert D. Heaviside, his brother, R. Lee ’71, and his mother, Henrietta S. Heaviside. He is survived by his sons, Robert of Orlando, Fla. and Jeffrey of New Orleans, along with their wives Caroline and Anne; grandchildren, Connor and Helen; sisters, Lynne S. Heaviside and Jan C. Heaviside. Walter Cotant Humstone ’32, longtime Greenwich resident, died on August 11, at the age of 98. In addition to his wife, Anne, Walter was predeceased by his brother, Millard Humstone. Millicent Clarke Kelley, a former art teacher at Brunswick School and Riverdale Country School, died at the age of 92 after a long illness.

Antonio “Tony” Molina III ’90, beloved son of Antonio II and Jean Molina, passed away on October 27 at the age of 39. He was a talented football player and musician and was known for being the “King of Cool.” In addition to his parents, Tony leaves behind his two sons, Antonio IV and Alexander; sisters Carroll Passeriello and Yvette Molina; and brothers, Darrell Tyson, Adam Molina and Johnathan Molina. Madelyn Phillips O’Neil, former dance teacher at Greenwich Academy and mother of David O’Neil ’61, passed away at the age of 98. Bradlee Van Brunt Postell ’46 passed away at the age of 82 in Vero Beach, Fla.

Dialing It Up for Brunswick During last fall’s two-night Annual Fund Phonathon, several hundred phone calls were made by more than 50 Brunswick dads who volunteered their time to help launch the 2011–2012 ’Wick Annual Fund. Our sincere thanks to them for making the Phonathon such a success, and to you, our Brunswick families, for answering the call and responding so generously. Over the two nights, we raised approximately $295,000, approximately $50,000 more than was raised at the 2010 Phonathon. Since tuition pays for only a portion of expenses required to educate each student, the Annual Fund provides the additional and essential revenue to help cover 9 percent of Brunswick’s other operating expenses. It is clear from the success at the Phonathon that families understand the crucial need to be a part of this effort. If you missed your call during the 2011–2012 ’Wick Annual Fund Phonathon, or if you would like to join our team of callers this year (who, incidentally, along with making calls have a heck of a lot of fun), please contact Krista Bruce, Director of Annual Giving, in the Development Office at 203.625.5864 or kbruce@brunswickschool.org. You can also make your gift online at BrunswickSchool. org/give. (Please be sure to ask your company whether they have a matching gift program, which can double—sometimes triple—your gift.) Thank you for supporting the 2011–2012 ’Wick Annual Fund. Your generosity—at any level—is an invaluable contribution to our School, faculty and programs, facilities and most importantly … to our boys.

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