The Ordway Science & Technology Center: Home of Technology at Avon Old Farms Avon Old Farms School Established 1927 F all 2004

Headmaster Kenneth H. LaRocque Provost John T. Gardner Features Director of Publications Margaret Moss DeGraaf 10 Technology In Education at Avon Old Farms Class Notes by Margaret M. DeGraaf Lizabeth Abramson Photographers 16 Faculty Focus: Debra Case, Spencer Sloan Director of Information Technology Jonathan Lester ’63 Contributors 22 Alumni Profile: Stuart Holliday ’84 Kevin Buechler, Joan Brodie, Alex Callsen ’04, Debra Case, Henry Coons ’71, Art Custer, Michelle Custer, Peter Deckers ’90, 51 The Last Word: Big Doors Swing On Little Hinges Rob Dowling ’91, Peter Evans, Susan by Dane Lemeris ’05 Evans, Ted Garber, Susan Haile, Carol Ketcham, Gail Laferriere, Rolf Olson ’59 and Christine Walder. Thanks to everyone who contributed to this magazine. Departments Design Ann Sack Design 1 From the Headmaster The Avonian is published for the alumni, parents, and friends of Avon Old Farms 2 Village Green School. It is distributed to 7,000 readers. Avon Old Farms School 19 Athletics 500 Old Farms Road Avon, Connecticut 06001 25 From the Alumni Association President www.avonoldfarms.com by Seth Mendell ’52 School 860-404-4100 Admissions 800-464-2866 30 Class Notes Email [email protected] Alumni Affairs 800-336-8195 Email [email protected] T hank You Publications 860-404-4292 Carol Ketcham began working at Avon in 1983. She began her career at Avon Email [email protected] working in the Alumni/Development office, eventually becoming editor of the All Email: Any member of the faculty or Avonian. She then became Mr. LaRocque’s assistant upon his appointment as administration can be emailed by using this formula: last name + first initial + provost and then as director of external affairs when he became headmaster. avonoldfarms.com. The directory on the Her retirement last spring was heralded in various quarters, but no web site also has email links. mention was made in this magazine. Carol Ketcham, for many years, was the Avon Old Farms School admits students of any Avonian. For the past several years, she has served as an invaluable resource to race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally the magazine and her retirement signals the end of a long career of important accorded or made available to students at the service to this publication. We wish her the best in her future endeavors. school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin or disabilities Margaret DeGraaf in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs. Cover Photos – Spencer Sloan From The Headmaster

The Mission of two pay telephones per dormitory. Now each dormitory room is wired for a tele- Technology phone and a computer; most students also own a cell phone. Every member of the uring my 24 years as a member of community has at least one computer. D the Avon Old Farms School com- Upon arrival, every faculty member munity, I have been privileged to witness receives an IBM laptop computer. The far-reaching changes to our school campus, School sponsors a student computer our programs, and our culture. While these purchase program, so that many of our changes have improved our quality of life students have laptops. Each classroom and learning, they have not altered Avon’s features a docking station for faculty fundamental mission — addressing the computers as well as a projector so that developmental needs of young men, our “Men of Avon.” students are able to view an enlarged image of what is Mrs. Riddle’s campus is just as striking today as it was displayed on the computer. Interactive Smart Boards have 24 years ago. However, it has also needed attention in several taken the place of blackboards in many classrooms. areas. We have addressed major facility issues, providing Teaching and learning have been transformed into a multi- for the residential and educational needs of our students sensory activity through technology. Parents communicate and faculty families, while respecting the architectural easily with their sons or with faculty or administrators via integrity of our founder’s designs. Judging from the reactions telephone, email, or Instant Messaging. Parents are able to of visitors and alumni who continue to be moved by the access their son’s homework assignments in various courses “sense of place” they feel when they arrive on campus, we through the School web site. have succeeded in our efforts. Our quad dormitories have Our admissions program has also benefited signifi- been renovated, and are bright, warm, and efficient. New cantly from technology. Anyone with access to the Internet buildings serve the visual and performing arts, and science is able to communicate with us and to learn about our and technology. Our chapel has been wonderfully trans- school. We produce separate electronic newsletters for our formed. Our athletic facilities, including our playing fields admissions candidates and our alumni. Avon graduates are and hockey complex, have been improved substantially. able to find out about reunions, receptions, and events on We have also increased the number and quality of faculty campus with ease. homes on campus. Building community has always been a priority at Avon In addition, the past 24 years have seen numerous infra- and technology has enhanced our abilities in this endeavor. structure improvements. New power plants, sewage systems, Communicating and connecting create a community, and roadways and parking areas have been constructed. Our technology facilitates communication and connection. electrical and heating systems have also been updated. In As Avon evolves as a school, we will continue to fact, everywhere one looks, improvements have been made. adapt to societal changes and take advantage of any More significant in its impact on school culture than opportunities presented by technological advancements. any other project, however, was the installation of a campus- However, our success will depend not on technology, but wide intranet in 1995. When I arrived in 1981, there were on dedicating ourselves to fulfilling our mission to be “the no fax machines, very few computers, and only two copy best school for boys.” Our success will depend on focusing machines on campus. Mimeographing tests and quizzes was our efforts towards developing our students into “good the campus standard, and carbon paper was an invaluable men” who embrace our core values and will be productive resource. When I look at the importance of technology in members of an increasingly challenging society. During every aspect of campus life today, I wonder how we all my years at Avon, technology has helped us to fulfill our survived without it! mission, and I expect that it will continue to assist us in The most positive by-product of technology has been that quest in the years to come. vastly improved communication. Not long ago, we had Aspirando et Perseverando.

1Fall 2004 Village Green

The Architect’s renderings of the Student Center & Athletic Complex. The Final Phase of the Strategic Plan By Rolf Olson ’59, Chairman, Board of Directors

IT’SANEXCITING TIME AT AVON Center and Jennings Fairchild Hockey with the Ordway Science Center, the OLD FARMS SCHOOL. No sooner had Rink. A rendering of the new complex architect’s design will “bury” most of Avon completed the outstanding new is posted just outside the headmaster’s the building into the ground and Ordway Science Center building, office, and it can be viewed on the down the slope of the land. when the Board of Directors voted School’s website. It’s truly a marvelous There will be some disruptions to to begin construction on a Student complex. the School’s routine during the con- Center, Athletic Complex and Field Construction will begin in March struction process. The Hawk’s Nest House. This new project is the largest of 2005. Actual construction should will be in a temporary location until building program since Theodate take about 18 months and the new the new building is complete. The Pope Riddle started construction of facilities should be ready for the open- new Student Center Complex will the School itself in 1921. ing of school in September of 2006. contain the student center grill, The project recently received a A freshman entering Avon today will lounge, game rooms, meeting rooms, “jump start” lead gift from the Brown get to use the complex for two full school store, radio station, post office family which gave the Board confidence years before he graduates. and business center. It will be the to move forward. Once the Board of While the Building Committee center of student activity on campus. Directors voted to do the project, interviewed construction firms from In addition to a fully-equipped other alumni, parents, and friends around the Northeast, they selected gymnasium, the Athletic Complex also came forward with generous gifts. a firm based right here in Avon, will have seven new squash courts, a G. Garvin Brown III graduated from Connecticut. FIP will be in charge wrestling suite, and a fitness center Avon in 1962 and his sons, G. Garvin of the construction. that will include a free weight zone Brown IV graduated in 1987, and Avonians Bill Beatson ’59 and and an aerobic/fitness machine zone. Campbell P. Brown graduated in Peter Aron ’65 co-chair the Building The Field House will be the 1986. Campbell now serves on Avon’s Committee. Bill and Peter work on largest part of the new complex, and Board of Directors. Their generosity this project literally every day, and it will create a substantial space for can also be seen in other areas of the work closely with the architect, indoor winter sports (e.g. basketball) campus, such as “Brown House”. Jeffrey Millman, of Jeffrey Millman as well as a space for teams to practice The new complex will be con- & Associates, Boston. in the fall and spring (e.g. soccer, structed on the far edge of the Village The 100,000-square-foot complex lacrosse, baseball) when the outside Green between the Pierpont Activities is designed to fit into the landscape of fields are not playable. Mrs. Riddle’s Cotswold Village. As (Continued on page 3)

Avonian 2 V illage Green

All the new and exciting things Athletic Hall of Fame Inaugurated that are happening on campus are a testament to the dedication and com- On Saturday May 8th, mitment of the alumni, faculty, during Reunion Weekend, administration, parents, students, and the Athletic Hall of Fame at friends of the School. In the last few Avon Old Farms was officially years, we have seen the renovation inaugurated with the induc- of the Chapel, a new access road to tion of four outstanding campus, new walkways, the Ordway individuals and three teams. Science and Technology Center, a new roof on the Aron Academic The event was held in the Center, a new running track on the Adams Theatre and was athletic fields, and now, the Student attended by current student- Center, Athletic Complex and Field athletes, families and friends House. These things would not have of the inductees, and dozens happened without the support and of alumni. The 2004 inductees generosity of the Avon Family. and the highlights of their Skip Flanagan, Juan Nieves, and Chris Hetherington. Together, we are making a real differ- careers are now each com- ence in the quality of life here at memorated with a plaque in the hallway outside the Adams Theatre. The Avon Old Farms. permanent location for the Athletic Hall of Fame will be the new Student Center There are a number of wonderful (construction begins in March). naming opportunities for the new Those inducted were: Dr. Henry “Skip” Flanagan (lacrosse coach at Avon project and the fund raising continues. from 1972-1982); former major league pitcher Juan Nieves ’83; National Hockey A number of people in the Avon League defenseman Brian Leetch ’86; and National Football League fullback Chris Family have contributed valuable Hetherington ’91. The three teams selected were: the 1979 varsity lacrosse team assistance. For example, one parent (undefeated season and New England champions, coached by Skip Flanagan); the has offered to have his firm donate 1986 varsity hockey team (undefeated regular season); and the 1989 varsity hockey part of the excavation work for the team (Division I New England champions). construction. This significant contri- “This is a great honor for me,” Skip Flanagan said, “because I know so many bution will help bring down the cost of the talented people associated with athletics here. Avon is, and always will be, of what is expected to be a $20 million an important part of my life, and my experience coaching here was truly special.” project. Avon maintains a “wish list” and a “naming list” for those who wish “If you’re an athlete at Avon now,” said Chris Hetherington ’91, “you are to get involved. For more information, fortunate to have outstanding coaches, nice facilities, and a strong tradition of call Peter Evans at 860-404-4276. winning. I came to Avon as an undersized freshman, but eventually found success Any help is most appreciated and we and passion in athletics here and beyond. Keep working hard because you never thank you for your consideration. know what your limits are.” Avon is the last school in the Juan Nieves ’83 remembered how “running cross country at Avon Old Founders’ League to have a Student Farms was the hardest thing I have ever had to do in athletics. The mental part Center, Athletic Complex, and Field of running here was a big challenge and helped me to grow into a mentally tough House, and now, Avon will have the athlete. I learned so many life lessons here at Avon that have served me well.” newest and the best. Avon has always The purpose of the Athletic Hall of Fame is to honor exceptional teams, been able to attract outstanding stu- players, coaches, and administrators who have made outstanding contributions to dents, but as we strive to be the best athletics and have brought distinction to Avon Old Farms School and its athletic school for boys in the country, this tradition. Last year, acting on the suggestion of alumnus James Patten ’88, AOF complex will give us a greater advan- and its alumni association created a permanent Athletic Hall of Fame to honor tage in attracting students from around Avon’s outstanding athletic tradition. Following the announcement, the school the country and around the world. received dozens of nominations. The selection committee then carefully consid- On behalf of the Board of ered all of the individuals and teams who were suggested. This process is ongoing. Directors, I thank you for your help If you are interested in being part of the selection committee, headed by James and support. All you have to do is Patten ’88, please contact Rob Dowling ’91 at [email protected]. look around the campus to realize how significant your help and support have been to Avon. Thank you again.

3Fall 2004 V illage Green

School Opens

Headmaster LaRocque with Sam Emmes ’08 and parents from California. Avon Old Farms School welcomed a dynamic and diverse group of students when it opened its doors for the 2004-2005 academic year on Wednesday, Summer was Anything but Lazy as construction kept to a hectic pace all September 15, 2004. Of the 383 students summer. The roof of the Aron Academic Center — original from the time of the school’s construction arriving at school, 154 are new to Avon; they in the 1920s — was torn off and redone. The job required extensive work around the valleys and come from 11 countries and 27 states. dormers of the building to ensure that it would be water tight. The sides and front of the building were roofed in genuine red slate; the backside of the roof, which is not visible, was covered in a synthetic (and much less expensive) slate. Another major project was the installation of a state-of-the-art track. (See photo on page 19.) Other regular maintenance work included: installation of new sidewalks, removal of aging trees on the central campus, and some early infrastructure work to get ready for the new Student and Athletic Center construction to begin in March 2005.

A FLEA IN HER EAR

The cast of A Flea in Her Ear, front row, from left: Julian Sessa ’07 Rachel Spellman MPS ’06, Juliet Rubin MPS ’06, Cordelia Sklansky MPS ’07, and Brooke Scoles MPS ’06. Middle row (seated): Alvinn Paulino ’08, Lauren George MPS ’06, Ania Wójtowicz MPS ’06, and Matt Hopper ’05. Back row: Thomas Carroll ’06, John Ducci ’05, Kristian Walker ’08, Sam Hoffman ’07, Danny Arguedas ’07, Sam Emmes ’07, Sefira Fialkoff MPS ’05, Ralph Allen ’06, Maddie Guerlain MPS ’05, and Hillary Richmond MPS ’07. Not shown: Se Yoon (Sampson) Choi ’08.

A Flea in Her Ear, a French farce written by Georges Feydeu in 1907, played for three nights in November at Avon. In the play, Raymonde Chandebise, wrongfully suspects that her husband, Victor, is being unfaithful to her, and begs her best friend, Lucienne, to help set a trap for him. The two friends devise a plan to write a steamy love letter to Victor, inviting him to “commit a folly” at the Hotel Coq d’Or. If Victor shows up at the seedy hotel to meet the mystery woman, then The ropes course helps break the ice. Raymonde will have proof of her husband’s dalliances. Unfortunately, this seem- ingly simple plan quickly begins to unravel and let’s just say that the unusual collection of personalities at the hotel creates a riotously funny and entertaining spectacle. Almost no one escapes being punched, chased, kissed, or whirled around on revolving beds.

Avonian 4 V illage Green

Parents Weekend

Tobias Wolff Day “Tobias Wolff Day” at Avon was the brainchild of Mrs. Joan Brodie, Parents enjoyed the opportunity to see their sons’ school up close. English department chairman. For the second year, students were assigned a summer reading book that would be Despite some rain on Parents Weekend, parents turned out with great enthusiasm. followed up in September by a visit The program began Friday morning with morning meeting and classes. Parents from the author. This year, everyone were kept busy for the remainder of the weekend with many activities: senior was required to read Old School by college conferences, parent-teacher conferences, the Baxter Library book drive, Tobias Wolff. a concert in the Adams Theatre, fly-fishing with the Nimrod Club, and Saturday Wolff, a short story writer whose afternoon athletic games. stories are already acclaimed as modern classics, winner of the PEN/Faulkner Award, and professor at Stanford University, spent an entire day partici- Civil War History Comes to Life pating in various activities — a panel discussion with students and faculty, The crackle of musket fire was a book signing in Baxter Library, a heard in the Oak Grove in early writing workshop for students who November. Passersby were a bit entered the school’s short story writing confused and alarmed to see a contest, and a senior English class. In lone soldier from the 20th Maine, preparation for Wolff’s visit, students Company B firing his musket on discussed in their English classes the Old Farms campus. But it was Wolff’s short story Poaching last just Art Custer, history teacher- spring. All students read for summer cum-civil-war-reenactor, bringing reading his memoir This Boy’s Life Civil War history to life. and novel Old School. In addition, in Private Custer (a.k.a. dean keeping with an element of the plot of faculty and chairman of the of Old School, students participated “Private” Custer aims his musket. history department) gave an open- in a short story writing contest. As a air lecture on the difficulties result, the short stories of junior Alex faced by ordinary Civil War soldiers, who slept six-men-to-a-tent much like the Feld and sophomore Philip McEachin one Custer had pitched and who had no more than “Oh Be Joyful” (home-made earned them the privilege of sitting whiskey) and their campfires to give them comfort. on the panel that interviewed Wolff With only the sound of wind ruffling the oak leaves, an occasional musket during a 90-minute program in the shot, the smell of woodsmoke, and the sight of the bearded soldier in his faded Adams Theatre. blues, it was a truly eloquent history lesson.

5Fall 2004 V illage Green

Art News Community Service

The Ties That Bind Walkers for Juvenile Diabetes raised $7,500. The Winged Beaver 2004 yearbook, entitled The Ties That Bind won a first place award from the American Scholastic Press Association and The students of Avon Old Farms started their community service a silver medal from the Columbia Scholastic activities for the year on October 2, when an energetic group of students Press Association, who commented, “You’ve woke up early and traveled to Hartford to participate in a Habitat for nailed down the basics of good design with dominant photos and outstanding use of Humanity project. Scaling extension ladders and hammering in insulation graphics.” The editor of the 2004 yearbook for vinyl siding, the boys worked efficiently and productively prior to turning was Alex Rothaus ’04; its advisors were (as in their work boots for cleats as they competed in their athletic events always) Gail and André Laferriere. during the afternoon. On Sunday, October 3rd, 59 members of the Avon community joined in a two-mile walk to support the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. The Avon contingent loaded the buses to arrive en masse at the ADVO SummerWind Arts Center in Windsor. The students were generously sponsored by Avon parents and raised additional contributions through the community service program and a school-sponsored “Dress Down Day”. The Winged Beavers were awarded the “Top School” award at the walk. More importantly, the boys were able to raise more than $7,500 for a worthy cause. This pastel by Mike Lee ’04 is one of the Kevin Buechler, Community Service Coordinator selections from his portfolio currently on display in a one-man show in the library. When he was a student, the art studio was Mike’s second home on campus; he was an active member of the Art Club and our afternoon art program. His drawings won him a silver key in the Connecticut Scholastic Art competition and a place in last year’s regional exhibit at the Taft School. Mike is in his first year at Carnegie- Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The sculptural work of Patrick Quinn ’00 was on exhibit in the Ordway Gallery from October 10 to December 3, 2004.

The Habitat for Humanity work crew.

Avonian 6 Graduating Class of 2004 College Matriculation

Michael Alberti Union College Graham Klehr-Keyes Hobart College Kevin Anderson Bryant College Brett Kreter Ithaca College Luke Archambault Gettysburg College Jason LaVorgna University of Massachusetts Michael Arciero Clarkson University Griffin Leahy Columbia University Nicholas Asensio St. Joseph’s University Seung Jae Lee Carnegie Mellon University Andrew Baris Arizona State University Michael Lingenheld University of Connecticut Morgan Barrieau Lynchburg College Shaughn Lopes University of Tampa Zachary Bartholomew Bates College Weston Lou Lebanon Valley College Michael Beggins U.S. Naval Academy Prep School John Lucey Lynchburg College Andrew Bennett American University Craig Mackay Endicott College Adam Bergenty Bryant College Alexander Martin Bates College Kippery Bochain Stetson University Ryan Matalon College of Charleston Evan Bowen University of Delaware Edward Mazur University of Massachusetts Kyle Brewer Wake Forest University Owen McDonagh Ohio Wesleyan University Gilman Callsen Yale College Albert McDonald Goucher College Timothy Cartland Lasell College Kevin McLaughlin George Washington University Jayson Cash Merrimack College Matthew Moran Villanova University Ricardo Clement Southern Methodist University Alexander Miller University of East Anglia (England) Samuel Cole Southern Methodist University Nicholas Morris University of Denver Andrew Creed University of Vermont Vincent Mullins George Washington University Joseph Cucci Bentley College Alexander Nicolia University of Delaware Charles Custer Brown University Ryan Olsen University of Denver Matthew D’Annolfo Southern Methodist University Robert Olson Drexel University Matthew Dallin Endicott College Brian Orr Bowdoin College. Luke Daly Boston College Nicholas Pacquee Southern Methodist University Erik Davis Pennsylvania State University Gabriel Park Wake Forest University Michael Davis Fairfield University Jose Paz Camacho Florida Technical College Kieran Delaney Georgia Institute of Technology Patrick Percella Boston University Jared DeMichiel Providence College Matthew Peterson Clark University Nicholas Dimond Butler University Justin Pool Trinity College Ryan Donovan Alternate Year Blake Qvale Ohio Wesleyan University Matthew Dratch Dartmouth College Robert Reed Clarkson University Andrew Ferguson Alternate Year Kevin Riley Colgate University Adam Fine Gettysburg College Steven Rodriguez Holy Cross College Michael Finnegan University of New Hampshire Alexander Rothaus Hamilton College Patrick Forshner St. Anselm College Tobias Salmelainen St. Michael’s College Jonathan Fugge Trinity College Nathan Schlafer Elmira College Bryan Grier University of Maine Ryan Sheflott Fordham University Christopher Griffin College of Charleston Patrick Sheridan Union College Connor Grogan College of William and Mary Brennan Shutt Clemson University Walter Haims St. Michael’s College David Silver University of Connecticut Alexander Hall University of Colorado-Boulder Brett Smith University of Rhode Island Scott Hannah Drexel University Thomas Sponzo Lynchburg College Dwight Harris University of Richmond Joon Kyu Sung Cornell University Tyler Harris Syracuse University Salvatore Szwed Salve Regina University Jin-Woo Hong Michigan State University Alvaro Tapia George Washington University David Huck St. Michael’s College Brandon Thiess Dickinson College Wesley Jayne Endicott College Daniel Valentine Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Brian Kelaher Brown University Michael Voket Norwich University Tyler Kelley United States Coast James West Lake Forest College Guard Academy Timothy Willett St. Anselm College Adrian Keyes University of Colorado–Boulder Michael Wilson Marist College Nicholas Kirschner Central Connecticut Raymond Yozwiak Elon University State University

7Fall 2004 ≤ommencement 2004

Headmaster Ken LaRocque with Michael Finnegan, school warden, and winner of the Order of Old Farms, The F. Reed Estabrook Jr. ’36 Award, and the Edward Somerville Voss Award. Mike was also a member of the Cum Laude Society. Gilman Ordway ’44 and his wife, Marge, accept the Adams Parents Medal from Board Chairman Rolf Olson ’59. The Adams Medal is given to parents and grandparents for exceptional support of the School.

n May 30, 2004, 105 young In addition to the awarding of ¯men strode across the stage diplomas, Commencement day also on a flawless sun-dappled morning included the announcement of the to accept their high school diplomas School’s highest awards given to grad- from Headmaster Kenneth LaRocque uating seniors, as well as faculty awards. and Chairman of the Board Rolf Board member Paul Matalon (whose Olson ’59. The air was electric with nephew, Ryan, graduated in the class the energy of the graduates who were of 2004) was awarded the Alumni about to reach the culmination of Order of Old Farms, for his distin- their four years of intense effort; stu- guished loyalty and service to Avon. Art and Michelle Custer give Charlie his diploma. dents’ and parents’ aspirations realized. Brian Doyle, math teacher and hockey Charlie was the Scholar of Distinction — the School’s top student — and gave his speech on awards night. The keynote speaker was Dr. and baseball coach, won the Cashion Charlie also won the Order of Old Farms as well as Sandra Katz, author of Dearest of Faculty Award. Dean of Faculty and being a Cum Laude Society member. Art received the Geniuses: A Biography of Theodate history department chair Arthur Swan Award. (Michelle should receive her own special Pope Riddle, and a professor at the B.W. Custer received the SWAN award for governing the household of all of these remarkable men!) University of Hartford. Professor Katz award given by the directors of the posed the question, “Why would a WALKS (Westminster, Avon, Loomis female architect be determined to Chaffee, Kingswood Oxford, Suffield) build an all-boys’ school?” Reviewing Foundation. The night before, at the the unique genesis and history of the traditional Awards Ceremony, Jeff school, Katz answered that question. Miller, director of performing arts, was Behind Theo’s determination was her honored with the Fanning Faculty father, James Atwater Pope, for whom Award. Lara Doyle, manager of the she wanted to create a lasting tribute. school store, was chosen by the Student For the Class of 2004, there is Council to receive special recognition the great satisfaction of completing for her work on behalf of the students. their high school careers and moving on to an impressive list of colleges and universities. (See matriculation list, page 7.) Erik Davis ’04.

Avonian 8 In the Cum Laude ceremony, traditionally held the Sunday prior to Commencement, 15 members were inducted as members to the Avon Old Farms chapter of the academic honor society. The members are, from left: Hwi-Yoon Cheong, Dwight C. Harris, Garbriel K. Park, Kyle P. Brewer, Board member Paul Matalon (whose nephew, Ryan, graduated in the class of Daniel F. Valentine, Michael J. Finnegan, Connor R. Grogan, G. Alex Callsen, 2004) was presented with the Alumni Order of Old Farms for his distinguished Brennan J. Shutt, Nicholas S. Morris, Justin R. Pool, Matthew R. Dratch, loyalty, support and service to Avon by Rolf Olson ’59. Michael J. Davis, Charles H. Custer, and Joon Kyu Sung.

The Order of Old Farms Luke R. Archambault Kyle P. Brewer G. Alexander Callsen Joseph A. Cucci Charles H. Custer Michael J. Finnegan Tyler E. Kelley Jason B. Lavorgna Brian J. Orr Gabriel K. Park Tobias S. Salmelainen Dr. Sandra Katz was the keynote speaker. Alvaro J. Tapia

The Founder’s Medal Alex Callsen ’04 accepts congratulations from his Evan A. Bowen mom, Kitty Ordway, a member of the board and daughter of Gilman Ordway ’44. Jayson L. Cash Michael J. Davis Jared G. DeMichiel Matthew R. Dratch Christopher J. Griffin Connor R. Grogan Dwight C. Harris Adrian M. Keyes Ryan A. Matalon Nicholas S. Morris Nicholas T. Pacquee Justin R. Pool Alexander M. Rothaus Brennan J. Shutt Joon Kyu Sung Daniel F. Valentine James R. West Brian Doyle receives the Cashion Faculty Award. 9Fall 2004 eople,” says Avon’s IT black, blue, green, and red. The ele- “Technology doesn’t change director unequivocally. gance of its simplicity for users, how- pedagogy,” Custer continues, “but it “People are the School’s ever, belies the vast difference in its does make much of what I do easier. single-most valuable resource when functionality over a blackboard. Also, it serves to help students focus; talking about technology. Without Whatever goes on the Smart Board where once I might make copies of a people, technology is just hardware,” can be saved, distributed electronically, document and hand it out, now I says Debra Case. “We have resources and posted on the teacher’s website — project it on the Smart Board. The we hadn’t dreamed of 10 years ago, but a functional efficiency that is all but document and what I do with it are without good teachers to implement taken for granted now. If a student the same, but with it on screen, every and use the hardware creatively, it misses class, or just wants to review the student is looking up (rather than would just hang on a wall or sit on explanation for that complicated equa- down at his copy). It is easier for me a desk and collect dust.” tion later that evening, he can access to know who is with me, and it is more This assertion is somewhat it from AOFWeb, right on his laptop. interesting to the students. Again, surprising, given the fact that Avon afterward I can post the document to Old Farms School prides itself — “Smart Boards don’t educate AOFWeb — if a student needs it, he deservedly so — on its state-of-the-art kids; teachers do.” can find it there. If he prints it and technology program and computer loses it, he can print it again.” resources. Avon jumped on the infor- In the classroom, teachers turn This is not just wishful thinking mation superhighway in 1995, when on their computers, which are wired on the part of the teacher. Students IT was in its infancy, and has been to a ceiling-mounted projector and a are unanimous in their appreciation cruising ever since. Smart Board. Teachers can project of these technological efficiencies. Headmaster Ken LaRocque anything they choose — computer “Instead of losing focus on the concurs. “People are the beneficiaries documents, Internet sites, PowerPoint material in class while trying to jot of the technological tools on one side presentations, or class notes from the down every single note, I can focus on of the equation,” he says. “On the previous day. learning the material in class and be other side, people are the driving “I make extensive use of Smart comfortable doing so, because the force behind the technology. The Boards,” says Arthur Custer, dean of notes on the Smart Board will be quality of our people will ultimately faculty and history department chair- posted on AOFWeb and will always determine the way we work with all man. “They afford me the opportunity be accessible,” says Kyle Brewer ’04. of the technology at our disposal.” to print what I have written on the But, as IT Director Case says, Take the Smart Board®, for board during class, or to save it and “Smart Boards don’t teach kids; example. Mounted at the front of the attach it to the class website. They teachers do.” The use of technology at classroom, just like a blackboard, a also let me write on a PowerPoint Avon is predicated on that principle. Smart Board has a shelf for an eraser presentation; I often make PowerPoints In the midst of mind-boggling tech- and writing paraphernalia. In place of with images but no writing and then nological advances, teachers are still chalk, there are four digital markers — take notes ‘on the fly’ during class. Avon’s most valuable resource.

Avonian 10 “Without the creativity of the faculty, the technology would just sit there,” Case adds. “I think there was a fear, largely subconscious, that the traditions we value, and our very human ways of teaching, would be swept away with the rush to technology, that the one- on-one with students would become obsolete,” says Academic Dean, science teacher, and techno-enthusiast William Kron. “That has just not happened. Far from it.” Technology as we know it today at Avon Old Farms School sprung to life in 1995, with the installation of the network infrastructure — 40 miles of fiber optic cable laid throughout campus. In the world of education, Avon was actually ahead of the curve. The Internet itself had only recently Bill Kron’s honors chemistry classroom. been privatized, and most schools were just beginning to fathom the incredible impact that computer tech- nology would come to have on their Which is precisely why Avon farms.com (through which many other institutions. Old Farms has taken a measured and resources are available), homework- With the infrastructure in place, thoughtful approach. “Technology now.com, AOFWeb, library on-line Avon next tackled the purchasing and at Avon Old Farms is never on the resources, classroom research, and, installation of technical equipment, ‘bleeding edge,’” Associate Director coming soon, grades online. Branching followed by the training of faculty, of Technology Peter Deckers says. out from AOFNet (the Intranet) are staff, and students. The goal was to “Although there may be something AOFWeb teacher pages, the online bring the School’s computer technol- ‘new and improved’ on the market, library card catalog, administrative ogy into the 21st century, carefully this does not mean it is needed at software, file and print sharing, email, and thoughtfully, connecting AOF AOF.” Only after the latest technology grades and comments, entertainment, community members to each other, has been time-tested, and Case and and, coming soon, a state-of-the-art as well as to the world. Deckers are convinced of the benefits language lab. Deb Case and Bill Kron were for the AOF community, are upgrades Confused? To get a handle on the prime architects who brought the implemented. the way technology works and what it system into being. (See related story, does at Avon, you have to break down page 16.) Kron remembers the early “We started out with slide the different components, says Case. days well. At a recent meeting to rules and Super-8 movies…” Together, she and Peter Deckers man- discuss the School’s revamped website age the non-stop work of keeping all (coming next spring), as images from It may be difficult to wrap your those components up and running to Case’s laptop and from the Internet brain around the countless ways that serve 382 students and all 139 mem- were projected onto a Smart Board, technology can be applied to educa- bers of the faculty and staff. The job he took it all in and shook his head. tion — especially if you’re from the is vast — and invariably complicated. “And we started out working with B.C. (that’s “before computer”) era. The pair must oversee the school’s slide rules and Super-8 movies!” Ultimately, it all comes down to network (the infrastructure that allows But technology is not inexpen- connecting and communicating. members of the Old Farms community sive. “It’s a line item that was nonexist- Deb Case describes technology to communicate with one another), ent 30 years ago,” muses Headmaster at Avon as a series of spokes radiating diagnosing and solving network-related LaRocque. “Twenty years ago it was out from two separate but related problems. They must also maintain insignificant, and 10 years ago it grew hubs — AOFNet and the Internet. AOF’s hardware (computers and to a line item that we’d notice. Now, (See diagram on page 12.) Those servers) and implement software, it’s grown to a size that Board members spokes include email and Internet tackling problems such as adware, fret over.” access, Instant Messaging, avonold- SPAM, and viruses. And of course,

11 Fall 2004 they must constantly educate them- One IT decision has paid particu- siasm, Avon’s first-rate IT facilities selves about what’s happening in the larly big dividends. “The best thing we and equipment. Others seem to agree. IT world at large in order to continue ever did was to get laptops into the “When I talk to teaching candidates,” planning for the future. Finally, and hands of our faculty,” says Case of says Headmaster LaRocque, “who say perhaps most importantly, they must the 2001 move to provide laptop com- that the facilities that we have in our communicate what they know. puters for all faculty members. “That classrooms are better than their college really opened the door to bringing classrooms, I feel pretty good.” technology into the classroom and In fact, an Avon faculty member t many Morning Meetings, integrating it into the curriculum.” It whose spouse teaches the same subject Case makes announcements was a hard sell at the time, she reflects, at another school is amazed at the about the latest computer because of the initial costs, but in the technology gap. “We teach the exact virus, SPAM wave, or other potentially end the faculty laptop program, as same … course, but they have little or disastrous computer villain. Like the well as the student laptop program, no technology in the classroom. We computer network itself, IT problems has reduced the number and variety try and share lessons and ideas, but are always evolving. When one of computers the IT staff supports, most of what I am able to do with the virus is zapped, there’s a “new and and made it easy for faculty to bring technology here, she is unable to do. improved” version to take its place. technology — quite literally — into She can’t have different maps, pictures And with over 500 users, more than their classroom. of ancient historical artifacts, and other half of whom are teenage boys, the Case also emphasizes the impor- things readily available to her; she possibilities are enough to make any tance of the student laptop program. would have to sign out a projector IT manager tremble. Under this program, students purchase weeks in advance.” But the job does occasionally laptops at relatively low cost, which This past summer, when the include some comic relief. Deckers was can be repaired or replaced at no cost, Connecticut Association of Inde- recently overheard explaining to a with minimal angst, by the manufac- pendent Schools (CAIS) chose Avon’s concerned father that his son’s laptop turer. “We take care of all aspects of Ordway Science and Technology was not working because the boy had the computer repair,” Case says. “From Center as the venue for their annual spilled a glass of chocolate milk on it. troubleshooting the problem to con- conference on technology, conference “Lesson number one,” Deckers said tacting the vendor and arranging for organizer Diane Brewer said that the with a smile, “Computer circuitry is the repair if necessary. And when the general reaction from participants was not compatible with chocolate milk.” computer comes back repaired it is “Wow!” During the workshops, con- But Deckers assured the father that he re-imaged right here on campus to the ferees were heard confessing their would do his best to fix the machine. original configuration, this all happens envy for the tools Avon has to work The laptop in question, because it was within three or four days. We take the with and how such tools could make a part of the student laptop program, headache of computer ownership difference at their respective schools. was repaired by IBM at no charge. away from the student and parent.” Avon teachers and students, of “The main ingredient in any Three years later, Avon’s teachers course, have been reaping the benefits network are the users; that’s where we have enthusiastically embraced the of the School’s IT tools for several spend most of our time,” says Case. changes that technology has wrought. years, and in particular since the They also applaud, with equal enthu- opening of the Ordway Center in 2002.

Avonian 12 www.avonoldfarms.com

“Without a doubt, our web site has become the School’s most important communications vehicle,” says Headmaster Ken LaRocque. “We can communicate instantly with a global audience with continually updated material. It is a kind of communication we had not dreamed of even 10 years ago.” The web site, maintained by Peter Deckers ’90, associate director of tech- nology, contains a wealth of informa- tion. Deckers and his dedicated band of student techies are continually updating In James Kaehlert’s biology classroom, laptops are installed in the four classroom lab the web site with athletics results and stations to help facilitate student experiments. schedules, campus news, academic calendar and schedule information, and notices of upcoming events. The web site “My teaching has changed for here in 1976, we hand-wrote our pulls together all of the School’s com- the better,” says Jim Detora, chairman comments and used a mimeograph munications, including PDF versions of the science department. “I use most machine — remember the old purple of the technology. It makes learning sheets?” Now, she says, “computers of all School print publications. more interactive and visual for the allow us to get tests together faster, do Avon’s school community obvi- students. As educators, we can be research, find out what other schools ously appreciates the effort, judging more creative and meet the needs of are doing, and myriad other time- by the thousands of hits the web site the students. Because notes, solutions, saving tasks.” gets every month. For example, the fall and assignments are all available to the students through AOFWeb, they sports scores main page averages more have no excuse not to do their work.” echnology is particularly than 10,000 hits per month. Clearly Two of the AP labs and four of the beneficial to the visual students, parents, and alumni use the science classrooms are also equipped learners,” says Art Custer. web to keep up to date on what is with laptops integrated into the work- In his Advanced Placement U.S. ing laboratory areas. This allows the History classroom, he says, “It hasn’t happening in the athletic arena, as students to better collect, organize, and changed what I say about history or well as in other areas of school life. analyze their data while performing how I present history, in terms of its “It takes a tremendous amount an experiment. meaning, but it has certainly given of time and resources to keep the site Detora adds a caveat, however. me more options.” up to date,” says Deckers, “but it is “I personally think that the Internet Beyond the classroom, tech- can be a distraction. Also, there is a nology impacts many other aspects of definitely worth it. It has become an lot of information out there, and Avon life. Headmaster Ken LaRocque, essential tool and information source determining what is valid from what like virtually every other member of for everything we do, here on campus, is not is sometimes a problem. But as the campus community, says that email and for alumni and parents away from with most things,” he adds, “if it is is maybe the most important IT tool campus. It keeps everyone in the loop used properly, the technology can he uses on a daily basis. “It allows me provide the students with a new and to connect more quickly with students, and closer as a community.” exciting way to learn.” teachers, and parents; in emergency Coming soon, the web site’s Susan Evans, formerly a Spanish situations, I can contact our entire capabilities will be expanded further to teacher and now research director in extended community instantly. This include online grades, more newsletters, the development office, marvels at is particularly important for our inter- what she can do today using tech- national students. surveys, and advanced calendaring. nology. “When I first started teaching

13 Fall 2004 The goal of IT at Avon, of course, is to help teachers teach, to help students learn, and to prepare graduates to go on to college — and to a world that is increasingly complex. Educational technology consultant Jim Moulton, who served as the CAIS conference’s keynote speaker, puts technology and schools into perspec- tive. “Schools are funny places,” he says. “They are asked by society to do two things: hold onto the past and maintain our traditions, and at the same time prepare the students we entrust to you to be successful in a world that has yet to be. Technology will be a part of that world they will grow up — and then old — within.” Ultimately, Moulton concludes, successful schools must give their students experience with two different The Interactive Plasma screen and weather station in the Ordway Lobby. kinds of networks: the technical network and the human network. “The world is full of folks who under- “The Internet is probably our it’s changed the way I learn, but there stand the technology and can make second most important tool,” LaRocque are huge benefits to it. The ability to the machines work,” he says. “The continues, “because it allows us to communicate easily with anyone is true power will go to those who both communicate through our website. the greatest benefit, through email or understand the machines and can “What has changed overall here IM. During classes, Smart Boards are make them do their bidding, but can on campus is that whole sense of really helpful. You can take your own also work effectively with the people being able to communicate so easily,” notes, but then go back to the Internet who are the beneficiaries of the tech- LaRocque sais. “It connects with later to check your teacher’s notes.” nology’s contributions.” the whole sense of who we are. It’s ironic that something so modern, Technology at Avon Old Farms something that people first looked echnology at Avon Old at with skepticism and perceived as is about connecting. Farms, says Headmaster possibly detrimental to our sense of LaRocque, “is about con- community, has fostered a stronger “I find the Internet to be the necting, on many levels.” In addition sense of community.” first tool I use when researching an to the classroom and within the con- For today’s “screenagers,” none important paper,” says day student fines of the campus, those connections of this is revolutionary, of course. They Jackson Howard ’05. These days, the include the School’s greater accessi- have grown up with it. “They have all Day Student Center is wired, and bility and exposure, via the Internet, mastered computers, the Internet, and Howard and other day students can to prospective families and alumni, as cell phones,” notes Custer, “in ways plug in there (or anywhere) to access well as to current students and their that leave most of us behind.” And the network with all of its tools and families. “Instead of this feeling of while they see each new tool — Smart information. Along with the increased being in a small, insular world,” Boards and flat plasma screens, for technological advantages, though, LaRocque continues, “now it’s different. instance — as “very cool,” it is not so come increased responsibilities. Now, on a daily basis, we’re more open much a surprise as a natural progression “The expectations are higher and the and connected to the outside world. to them. They grew up on computers teachers expect better work than they Those connections enrich all of us. and Nintendo, after all, and have a may have before the Internet,” says “Technology makes so many more native intuition about these digital Howard, who adds, “It’s easier to get in things possible. Creative and inspiring tools that their teachers often do not. touch with faculty, so that’s a benefit teachers will always be the foundation “I’ve used technology and com- with no downside.” of education, but technology expands puters ever since I can remember,” says the possibilities,” LaRocque says. “It’s Mike Finnegan ’04, “so I don’t think inspiring. And we are, first and fore- most, in the inspiration business.”

Avonian 14 A Student’s Technology Tour By G. Alex Callsen ’04

This piece was written by Alex Callsen ’04, who served as a right hand to Mrs. Case and Mr. Deckers during his four years at Avon. He is now a freshman at Yale University.

Avon has truly defined the integration of technology-aided teaching into the classroom as a major school goal. During my four years at Avon, I watched this once far-fetched goal become a reality. Avon’s faculty has adjusted to the new technology and lead by example to show the possibilities of our new resources. To give you a feel for how technology is helping in classes across campus, I would like to take you on a virtual walk through the school. First we can poke our heads into Mr. Buechler’s World War I/World War II class in Dio, where he is projecting one of his renowned PowerPoint Jeopardy® games to the board from his faculty laptop. Mr. Buechler creates a new specialized game specific to the topics being covered in class whenever he wants. Now we can go over to Elephant and watch Mr. Cooper give a PowerPoint presentation to his Latin students in which he has broken down the ever-so-interesting Latin textbook into some more engaging terms. If we go across Jamerson Green and stop by Mr. Gillett’s Jamerson classroom, we can watch him surf the web with his Spanish students, keeping them up to date with current events in South America, or we can see Mr. Beneski show his Moral Philosophy class a new film. To see even more integration, we should swing by “Technology Central,” a.k.a. the Ordway Science and Technology Center. Our first stop will be Mr. Detora’s classroom, downstairs on the first floor. Here we can see Mr. Detora in his AP physics class writing up problems, equa- tions, and solutions on the Smart Board. If one of his students needs a little refresher on the day’s topics, that student can simply go online to AOF Web and download all of Mr. Detora’s classroom notes. If we go up one floor, we can listen to some of Mr. Kron’s chemistry students give oral presentations on the chemistry behind nuclear explosions. All of the students can bring their PowerPoint presentations to class on a CD or flash drive and use the classroom’s Smart Board to give their presentations. Going to the top floor, we can visit Mrs. Biekert’s classroom, where she is teaching her programming students the exciting features of JAVA. After some explanation, each student can try out making his own program on his individual classroom computer. Of course our walk would not be complete without stopping by the offices of Mrs. Case, Information Technology Director, and Mr. Deckers, Associate Director. These two keep campus technology operating smoothly, with an ever-increasing array of technical tools. As our virtual walk has come to its end I hope you have gained some insight into how beneficial technology-aided teaching is and how well our entire campus is becoming integrated. Avon has done a great job of integrating technology into virtually every classroom — it is not only the science and technology departments that take advantage of our new resources. I invite you to take your own stroll around the campus at some point to see this all for yourself.

15 Fall 2004 Faculty Focus

Debra Case Director of Information Technology

t was nearly three the School. So we got her Idecades ago that Debra back here to run the food Case – then Debra Paradis service and the refectory – came to Avon Old as well.” Farms School. Only a So, with consider- teenager, she was first able technology training hired to work in the and experience under her kitchen. That was then. belt, Case ran Avon’s Today, as director of refectory and did some information technology, computer-related consult- Case is at the epicenter ing in her spare time. It of the ongoing explosion wasn’t long, though, of information technology before Avon began to and all things computer- Paul and Deb Case. take full advantage of ized at Avon Old Farms her technology expertise. School. Just about everything that After all, Case was well trained, loved has anything to do with technology the School, and knew exactly what on campus is coordinated from her young woman,” says Headmaster Avon needed to get up to speed tech- office in the Ordway Science and Kenneth LaRocque. Case loved work- nologically. Technology Center. ing at Avon – the sense of community, “I had been helping out Bill Despite her title, those who know the boys, and the collegial atmosphere and Gail [Kron] with their daughter’s Case best say she belies the image of a of learning and shared values – but in wedding,” Case explains. “When I hard-core techno-geek. Kind, friendly, 1989 she decided to go back to school met with Bill one afternoon, I was in and eager to help others, she speaks to pursue her interest in computers. my ‘corporate clothes’ because I’d real English – not techno-babble – She studied computer programming at been consulting at Cigna. Bill asked and goes beyond the technical solu- Connecticut Processing Institute and me why I was all dressed up, so I tions to find real answers to Avon’s landed a job at Cigna. explained about my consulting work.” “man vs. machine” problems. Thank- Ultimately, she found, the cor- Kron, then science department chair- fully, she’s also a whiz at computers. porate world lacked the unique sense man and dean of faculty, knew that it Former Headmaster George of community that she had known at was time for Avon to begin offering Trautman first hired her in the spring Avon. So in 1992, she came back. courses in computer applications, of 1976. “Deb was so good and so Trautman remembers exactly but hadn’t found a teacher to fill the hard-working,” Trautman recalls. how it happened. “It was one of the slot yet. “So he asked if I would be “She began working here in the times I felt [Avon Old Farms founder] interested in teaching computer kitchen, but she did such a good job Mrs. Riddle was right there with us. applications in the fall. I jumped at at everything she did that she soon We had a food service director who the opportunity.” was promoted to food service director.” had quit. That very same day, Debie As Deb Case segued smoothly “When I came here in the was in touch with me and expressed into teaching computer applications spring of 1981, I remember a bright an interest in coming back to work at in 1993, she and Bill Kron became the

Avonian 16 At the beginning of each school year, you will find them both immersed in student technology. “Before the computers are connected to the net- work, each one is gone over with a fine-tooth comb to ensure the stability of the network,” says Case. Insuring that each student’s computer is free of viruses, ad-ware, and other potential mischief requires an enormous amount of time and effort. With the assistance of their student helpers, Case and Deckers see to it that all student computers are clean and connected to the School’s network within the first three weeks of school. One of the technology depart- ment’s first student helpers was Michael Brett ’98. Mike had picked up some Barbara and George Trautman, with Deb Case at the May 2004 Parents Dinner programming skills outside of AOF and Auction. that were invaluable to getting Old Farms on the Web. In the course of working closely with Deb Case and core of a team that started planning “I’ve always had an interest in technol- Peter Deckers, the three also became and building Avon’s computer network. ogy,” Deckers says. Initially, he began fast friends. “Deb had the vision to create a working with Case doing support for “Deb Case faced, met, and over- technology infrastructure,” recalls the early Macintosh computers, back when came a number of considerable chal- Headmaster. “Since then, as we have Avon still used both Macs and PCs. lenges in her time at AOF,” Brett says. gone through growing pains, she has “When Deb has something to be “Building and managing a campus-wide helped us to confront each of the done,” Deckers says, “she always gives IT infrastructure is no small feat. Her problems one at a time. I have always that task 100 percent of her attention. main challenge includes managing the appreciated her, not only for what she’s She is a perfectionist, but in the best technology that the administration, done for technology, but as a person sense of the word. She has to be, to faculty, staff, and students use that who helps to steer us on a path true keep track of everything that goes on ‘magically’ appears at their fingertips,” to our mission. She continues as our in technology here at AOF.” Brett continues. technological architect who keeps our Together with Deckers, Case “What people technology program up and running.” now manages the non-stop work of don’t see The main infrastructure of keeping Avon technology running Avon’s network was installed in the smoothly. It’s a daunting task, with summer of 1995. Incredibly, it was literally hundreds of people to please: functioning – and functioning well – 382 students and all 139 by Parents’ Day that year. And with members of the faculty Deb Case in charge, Avon’s technology and staff look to Case program has been growing and and Deckers to solve is the expanding exponentially ever since. their computer prob- ‘behind- Through her efforts, Avon Old Farms lems and answer their the-scenes’ remains on the leading edge of the technology questions. work that literally technological curve. Both admit that the job is keeps the campus con- Case’s partner in all of this is vast – and often complicated. nected. It takes time, dedication, Peter Deckers ’90, associate director With a multitude of servers, detailed knowledge, patience (especially of technology and webmaster. After well over 300 workstations, and the with young men), and hard work to graduating from Bowdoin College, student and faculty laptop program, make sure that the entire school runs Deckers returned to Avon in 1995 to their days are filled with new and at 100 percent. Today, AOF could not teach science. Gradually, he worked his interesting issues. run without its technology backbone. way into the technology department.

17 Fall 2004 ‘Mom’ when they needed her. My response was always, ‘Hey, wait a minute, she’s my mom!’ “My mother is devoted to what- ever project she is working on,” Jess continues. “She doesn't just look for one solution; she looks for the best solution. My mom considers all aspects of the problem so that her solutions always consider the long-term rather than the quick fix.” Paul Case attributes his wife’s success to “her character and a strong adherence to traditional family values; her belief that people are to be treated fairly and with respect. This guides her in the way she treats others and The technology team: from left, Ralph Allen ’05, Deb Case, Cody, Dane the way she expects to be treated,” he Lemeris ’05, and Peter Deckers ’90. adds. “Along with these values goes a strong sense of responsibility to chil- And technology simply wouldn’t exist Born and raised in nearby dren and students to help them grow (or work) at AOF without someone Plainville, Case attended the Plainville into responsible adults. like Deb.” public schools and married her high “I think Debie is good at what They may not be part of the job school sweetheart, Paul Case, right in she does,” Paul continues, “because description, but public relations and the Avon Old Farms Chapel in 1977. she takes pride in what she puts her diplomacy also factor into Case’s When she’s not solving Avon’s com- name to and because she places a high efforts. While not generally the strong puter problems, her life revolves around priority on her reputation. Avon Old suit of computer types, they are defi- her husband and two daughters – Farms has been a huge part of Debie’s nitely part of Case’s persona. “Deb has Jessica and Kelly. Jessica, now 23, entire adult life. When she left briefly dedicated a large portion of her life to teaches English at Northwest Regional to get an education and experience in the well-being of AOF students and School in Winsted, Connecticut, and computers, she very much missed the faculty,” Brett adds. “She is patient, Kelly, 20, attends Central Connecticut challenges and gratification that went yet stern; humorous, yet serious. And State University. In warm weather, along with her work at Old Farms.” from what I remember, a great friend their favorite escape is a lakeside Since returning to Avon more to all. From personal experience, cottage in Otis, Massachusetts, that than a decade ago, Deb Case has managing an IT environment with has been in Paul’s family for years. never missed the corporate world. In over 500 end-users is very difficult, fact, she can’t imagine her life with- especially in academia. Deb has risen out its Avon Old Farms connection. Deb Case faced, met, and What’s most important to her, beyond to the challenge and maintained her overcame a number of challenges composure and personality through it the computer connections, are the all, which is extremely important to in her time at AOF. Building and “people connections.” note, as her predominant clients are managing a campus-wide IT “Deb is truly a friend of mine,” energetic, demanding young men.” infrastructure is no small feat. says Mike Brett ’98. “She was always It is difficult to separate Deb there for advice when I needed to Case from technology at Avon, or vice Much like their mother, her vent or talk about school, girls, family, versa. “AOF has always been a huge daughters’ lives have been inter- work, etc. She was a friend not only part of Deb’s life,” says Peter Deckers. twined with Avon Old Farms since to me, but also to my family. We have “The mere fact that she has spent they were young. Playing on the kept in touch consistently over the almost 30 years on campus is proof of Village Green with other faculty kids past six years, and I’m sure we will for that.” But for all the time Deb Case is great fun, but sharing your mother many years to come. AOF students spends here, she most definitely has a with close to 400 teenage boys can be and faculty are lucky to have Deb full life beyond this Cotswold campus. tough. Jessica recalls “eating dinner Case. In my humble estimation, she is at AOF with my family and with the and has been a friend to many, as she boys, and hearing them call my mother has been to me.”

Avonian 18 Fall Sports

Varsity Soccer Varsity Cross Country Varsity Football

Coaches: Ron Nentwig & Coaches: Mike Schleer & Coaches: Kevin Driscoll, Jim Detora, Corey Gammill John Bourgault Lee Huguley & Tim Roller Captains: Dane Lemeris, Joey Sides Captains: Stefan Seitler & Captains: Patrick Irwin, Eric McGrath, & Rob Rosenhaus Kyle Rougeot Daniel Righi & Bryan Sweeney Season Record: 9-2-4 Season Record: 10-4 Season Record: 6-2 The varsity soccer team completed Avon’s Winged Harriers completed a Despite going into the final game of another successful season, posting a successful season with a final record the season with a long list of injured record of 9-2-4. The squad was led by of 10-4 and a third place finish at the players, Avon ended the season with a captains Joey Sides, Rob Rosenhaus, Williston Invitational. For the first 6-2 record. For the final game, we were and Dane Lemeris, (who was selected time in recent memory, schools like able to regroup by calling up the junior to play in the Connecticut Senior Bowl Loomis-Chaffe and Choate were varsity players to field a formidable game). Also contributing were Patrick looking in their rear view mirrors as team against a very physical N.M.H. Hamilton, selected to the WNEPSSA Avon’s Winged Harriers plowed team. Dan Righi, Andre Jones, and All Star Team, and Jesse Pereira’s through their opponents. Junior Bryan Sweeney led the defense with selection to both the WNESPSSA captain Kyle Rougeot led the team inspirational play and big hits that set and New England All Star Teams. with first place finishes in several the tone and constantly thwarted the There were great individual achieve- races. Junior Jon Pita ran second for N.M.H. offense. The strong efforts ments, yet the team concept was the most of the season and also earned by Jim Little, Stephen Driscoll, Rich formula for success. Every player on All-Founders honors. Junior Brendan Huntington and Sam Patterson playing the team knew his role and performed Avery ran in the number three slot their best defensive games were it well. The team won its first four and even produced a top 25 finish at instrumental in this first shutout of games, with three of those games the Founders’ League Championship. the season. Andre Jones carried the decided by one goal. This solid start Senior Jon Benoit ran extremely well offense, scoring his 20th and 21st gave this young team confidence early this season as he ran 6-minute miles touchdowns of the season, with the in the season, and it carried over to capture valuable points for the help of some fine blocking and running through the fall. team. Sophomore Mike Cooke and by fullback Stephen Driscoll. Eric The team’s determination and senior captain Stefan Seitler always McGrath continued his outstanding effort throughout the season was contributed valuable points. Cooke season as quarterback by leading the rewarded with a #2 ranking in ran a season best at Avon by breaking team with his composure and steady WNEPSSA, a #3 ranking in New into the low 17 minutes for 3.1 miles. play. This last game epitomized all of England Prep Schools, and a tourna- Post-grad Justin Oliver was a gutsy the characteristics that we value in our ment bid. Avon suffered a disappoint- runner who fought hard in every race. football players at Avon Old Farms— ing 3-1 loss in the quarterfinals to good sportsmanship, teamwork and Bridgeton Academy. The game could the strength to overcome adversity. have gone either way as three of the Winged Beaver’s shots hit the crossbar. Overall, it was a great season and a great group of young men to coach.

19 Fall 2004 Spring Sports

Varsity Baseball (.535) and had a slugging percentage efforts, resulted in only one victory that was over 1 (1.028)! He was also (against Choate). The team was able Coaches: Rob Dowling, Mike Schleer 4-0 on the mound as a pitcher, with to rebound with strong wins against & Brian Doyle a .95 ERA. Because of these statistics Kent, Trinity-Pawling, and Canterbury as well as his outstanding leadership, giving the Winged Beavers a 6-4 Captains: Brian Kelaher, Jason LaVorgna earned the team record. The toughest part of the Jason LaVorgna & Patrick Sheridan MVP award. schedule remained, with AOF facing Season Record: 18-3 The senior class in 2004 was a Deerfield, Taft, Salisbury and Loomis. The Avon Old Farms varsity baseball special group, each of whom helped Past history shows that these are team had another outstanding season maintain and promote the outstanding usually tight contests, but ones that in 2004, achieving an 18-3 record tradition of baseball at Old Farms. Avon had often won. Despite injuries, and winning both the Colonial and Avon baseball also benefitted from the not once did the young squad roll Founders’ League championships for talents of several gifted underclassman. over. The Men of Avon lost all four the second straight season. This team brought an intense contests, but the games went deep Avon led the league by placing attitude to the field every day last into the fourth quarter before our five senior players on the all-league spring, respected each other and their opponents could win. team: Evan Bowen, pitcher; Brian opponents, and played the game at a Despite being one of the youngest Kelaher, catcher; Jason LaVorgna, high level. Their talent, work ethic, teams in the league, they won many pitcher/outfielder; Ryan Sheflott, and results have set a high standard big games, and the ones that they lost pitcher; and Patrick Sheridan, infielder. for future teams. were due to lack of experience. The The team won its first 14 games, seniors should be proud of the job and clinched the league titles in early Varsity Lacrosse that they did in helping to mold the May. This group proved that great young raw talent, who will return to enjoy more wins next season. things result when talent meets hard Coaches: Ted Garber & Erkki Mackey work, discipline, and character. Captains: Brian Orr & Nick Diamond Leading the charge were the Varsity Track & Field senior captains: Brian Kelaher, Jason Season Record: 6-8 LaVorgna, and Patrick Sheridan. Each The varsity lacrosse team finished Coaches: Rick Dubois, Dan Murphy, brought enormous talent, drive, and the year with a 6-8 record. The team Jason Cummings & Karl Hall leadership to the team. Kelaher, the traveled to Disney World for a week Captains: Kevin Anderson, team MVP in 2003, hit .397 and led of pre-season training, where they Andrew Ferguson, Adrian Keyes & the defense behind the plate at the successfully competed against national Luke Archambault catcher position. Sheridan captained competition. The regular season Season Record: 5–5 the infield, led the team in stolen began with three road trips to NMH, bases and hit .368. LaVorgna was a Phillips-Exeter, and Tabor Academy, The season got off to a rough start, leader on the mound and in the out- resulting in a 2-1 record, including a with terrible weather conditions, field, and finished his four-year Avon notable overtime win versus Tabor. the largely-inexperienced team was career with some amazing numbers. The next three games, however, confined to the melted down hockey LaVorgna led the team in most offen- against Choate, Westminster, and rink to practice. After only two days sive categories, including homeruns, South Hadley were all intense battles working at the track, the team faced runs scored, RBI, batting average that, despite very strong defensive one of the toughest meets of the year;

Avonian 20 the perennial meet among Avon, Taft, Varsity Tennis everyone with his clear love and and Choate. The team performed well respect for the game, and his dedica- despite losing to both schools. Next, Coaches: Henry Coons & tion to the team; as a result, he was Avon traveled again to Loomis — last Gregory Cooper named this year’s Most Valuable Player. year’s Founders’ League Champions — Captains: Matt Jones & JJ West only two days after their first meet. Though they lost again, the Avon Season Record: 14-3 Varsity Golf team continued to improve. For the second year in a row, Avon Coach: Peter J. Deckers ’90 With good weather and hard made it into the New England playoffs Captain: Alvaro Tapia ’04 work, the team was able to do some following a terrific regular season. After serious training to get ready for its the 2003 graduation of #1 powerhouse Season Record: 19-3 next big meet against Westminster. Jon Hoak and #2 Tyler Conant, we This is where the team turned things The 2004 Varsity Golf Team had an had some big shoes to fill; luckily we awe-inspiring season, posting a record around. Led by Toby Salmelainen ’04 had talented athletes to fill them. with wins in the 4x100 meter relay, of 19-3. Avon was also able to earn We were joined this year by fourth place finishes in both the the 100 meter dash, the 200 meter Charlie Hyde ’05, a new junior from dash, and the long jump, Avon domi- Founders’ League and the KIT Washington, and Alex Bilsing ’05 tournaments. nated to make their first win of the from Germany. Hyde came to us with season. In the next meet against Captain Alvaro Tapia, Mike quick hands and a terrific net game, Lingenheld, Matt Moran, Blake Trinity-Pawling and Hotchkiss, the and he soon proved to us that he was Avon runners posted some of their Qvale and Ricardo Clement provided a force from the baseline, as well. the senior leadership on this year’s best times. Under the strong leadership Bilsing also proved to be a heavy of Adrian Keyes, Andrew Ferguson, team and the backbone of the squad. hitter, with a baseline game that often In addition to posting sub-80 rounds Luke Archambault, and Kevin stymied his opponents with its preci- Anderson, the team improved. The throughout the spring, all were able to sion shots and heavy top-spin. These finish a match as medalist (low score hard work and dedication paid off two rookies joined last year’s veterans, in their next meet as Avon swept of the day.) This year’s underclassmen, including the much-improved Andrew Chris Malloy ’05, Pat Irwin ’05 and Cheshire, Williston, and Suffield. The Schultz ’05 and Matt Jones ’05, who track team celebrated the final meet Connor Qvale ’06 all made notable traded the #1 and #2 positions contributions at different times of the season as well as the final meet throughout the year. Jones won Most on the old gravel track with a win at throughout the season. Improved Player award for the third For his consistency throughout home against Canterbury. year in a row. Schultz also developed Avon placed 6th overall at the the year and his proficiency in the big his baseline game a great deal. Dave matches, Alvaro Tapia earned MVP Founders’ League Championship meet, Rothschild ’05 moved from last year’s with several solid individual and relay honors. Mike Lingenheld was the #8 to a series of starting singles posi- team’s Most Improved Player. After performances. With a solid 5-5 season, tions this year. Seniors JJ West ’04 and the Avon track team looks forward to spending the 2003 season with the J.V. Andrew Baris ’04 brought their expe- Golf program, Mike concentrated on 2005 with strong promise in returning rience to the court, and they did their members as well as an all-new track. his game in the off-season and became team proud in their farewell season at one of the foundational players on this Avon. West, in particular, impressed year’s team. Mike’s level-headed and mature playing style often gave him the upper hand in matches this season.

C HECK www.avonoldfarms.com for the latest sports scores, events, and schedules.

21 Fall 2004 Stuart M. Holliday ’84

The Holliday family: Josephine (Stuart's mom), Henry (4), Stuart, and Gwen. Campbell (12 months) was napping and not available for photos.

These days, Stuart M. Holliday says Holliday, “and I also liked the tecture have always interested me,” ’84 is Ambassador Holliday. idea of trying something different.” he says, “and the School is very physi- None of his former Old Farms “Stuart Holliday was always a cally unique and beautiful. I think it teachers would be surprised that the stand-out,” says Peter M. Evans, captured for me the essence of what a former warden of the Class of 1984 director of development, who was a New England boarding school should is now an ambassador in the United history teacher and coach in the ’80s. look like.” States Mission to the United Nations. “He has always gravitated to where the Since 2000, he has worked for President action is and that’s obviously still true.” “Stuart Holliday was always a “Frank Leavitt ’52 [then director George W. Bush – first as a policy stand-out. He has always advisor to his election campaign, then of admissions] was the first person I met and he made a strong impression on gravitated to where the action is as special assistant to the President, and that’s obviously still true.” and later as coordinator for the Bureau me,” Holliday says. “I also remember of International Information Programs, listening to George Trautman, who within the State Department. was headmaster at the time. I thought Once at Avon Old Farms, The same hard-working and he was very charismatic. He infused Holliday participated in everything, charismatic character that served him the school with that magnetism.” seemingly, that the school had to so well at Avon has propelled him in Holliday also vividly remembers offer: he was a dorm monitor, cross- his career. the change of seasons, something he country runner, wrestler, and lacrosse Born in Malawi, Africa, where experienced for the first time at Avon. player, as well as a member of various his father was posted as a Foreign “When we arrived in summer, we committees and clubs. In his senior Service officer, Holliday is a natural were down on the fields with the year, he was the yearbook editor and statesman. By the time he was of high smell of the grass,” he recollects. “The warden. At graduation in 1984, he school age, his father was stationed in fall came alive with color.” He also was given the School’s highest award, Jidda, Saudi Arabia, and the family remembers watching with wonder as the Order of Old Farms. decided to send him back to the U.S. the winter snowfalls blanketed the “I had a very positive experience – and to Avon Old Farms. “There quad. “Having grown up primarily there and enjoyed the kind of structure were no appropriate high schools,” overseas, visual aesthetics and archi- the school provided, which essentially

Avonian 22 removed all the distractions that often the Nobel Peace Prize winner from divert a teenage boy’s focus and energy. Poland, then-Ambassador to the U.N. Eventually I found the balance of Bill Richardson, and Deputy Secretary academics and athletics,” Holliday Richard Armitage, among others.” says. He still has a passion for reading Holliday also wrote an occasional history, “thanks to Mr. Narsipur.” column for the Dallas Morning News. “Stu was thoroughly articulate, Then, in 1994, Holliday attended perceptive and instinctively proactive; a political fundraiser in Washington he was a strong warden at Avon,” for George W. Bush, who was then according to Evans. “Faculty would running for governor of Texas. “I was often comment, ‘Someday, Stu will impressed by his energy and plans for be in politics.’” the state of Texas,” Holliday recalls. A After Avon, Holliday received few years later, he was contacted by an his bachelor’s degree in 1988 from the old friend from IRI who was working Walsh School of Foreign Service at From the 1984 Yearbook. for then-Governor Bush. “I was excited Georgetown University, and then at the prospect of spending more time earned an M.S. in international rela- on Texas issues,” Holliday recalls, and tions from the London School of Bentsen of Texas. The couple married in 1998 he accepted a position as Economics. (He wrote his dissertation in 1993 and – since George H.W. assistant policy director in the office on the origins of NATO.) Bush had lost his re-election bid – of the governor. There he focused He never slowed down. From they decided to move to Dallas, Gwen’s on a variety of key issues: economic 1988 until 1995, Holliday served in hometown, to “water our roots.” development, trade, technology, and active and reserve positions in the “We both felt it was important military matters. And although he may United States Navy. He is the recipient to live in a place other than not have known it at the time, it was of the Joint Service Commendation Washington to get a better perspec- the beginning of a long and fruitful Medal, the Navy Achievement tive and to live a more balanced life,” relationship with George W. Bush. Medal, and other awards. he said. The Hollidays now have two “When the Presidential campaign Holliday says he ultimately boys: Henry, age 41/2, and Campbell, began, I remained in the governor’s decided on a political track, rather than 11 months. office until the 2000 Republican a career government track, by going to From 1993 to 1995 Holliday convention, when I began working as work for George Herbert Walker Bush served at the International Republican a policy aide for Dick Cheney, travel- in 1991-92. In 1992, he served on the Institute (IRI) in Dallas as regional ing with him around the country,” staff of the Bush re-election campaign. director for North Africa, the Middle Holliday recalls. “I was impressed by President East, and Turkey. “I traveled overseas “After the inauguration, I con- Bush,” Holliday reflects. “I had been in to many countries to set up programs tinued that work as a special assistant the Navy. I had seen the reunification that would either support elections, to the President,” Holliday says. He of Germany and was recalled for Desert train political parties, give grants, or spent the first year of the Bush admin- Storm. I thought that he provided the advise parliaments or legislatures,” istration assembling and recommending kind of international leadership that he says. candidates for service in the White was needed. Holliday also did some private House, the Defense Department, “I began as a volunteer. I showed sector consulting for an energy com- NASA, and the Peace Corps. “This up with my résumé and my new grad- pany and “got involved in the com- was probably one of the most fasci- uate degree,” Holliday says with a munity.” As director for the Dallas nating jobs I will ever have,” Holliday broad smile, “only to be told to wear Council on World Affairs, which was reflects. “It really was a daunting task.” comfortable clothes because we were the city’s international window, he After the first round of positions was going to be moving furniture.” invited prominent world leaders and filled, Holliday was posted to the It was during that stint in ambassadors to come to Dallas to speak State Department, where he worked Washington that he met the future about world affairs. “Some of the peo- with Secretary of State Colin Powell Mrs. Holliday, Gwen Moore, while ple we invited included Lech Walesa, in the area of public diplomacy. she was working for Senator Lloyd (Continued on page 24)

23 Fall 2004 he says. “In addition to supporting the work of Ambassador Danforth, I focus on immediate crises where the U.N. is involved in a peacekeeping operation or is planning to be involved in a peacekeeping operation,” he says. In the first week of October, Holliday was hard at work on the crisis in Sudan, which he says has been called the first African World War, because of the number of countries potentially impacted by the strife in this enormous country. Holliday has one word for his job: fascinating. Why? “First, it changes every day,” he says. “There is a very diverse set of circumstances that greets The Hollidays with then-Governor George W. Bush. you every morning.” A close second, he says, would be the people. “Not only the people I work with at the “Dealing with public opinion Adlai Stevenson, George H.W. Bush, U.S. Mission,” he adds, “but also at a time of political tumult, it’s diffi- Patrick Moynihan, and Madeleine negotiating with the best diplomats, cult,” says Holliday. “I remain very Albright. “I was nominated in and 191 other countries, who send interested in how to bridge the gaps November and confirmed in December their best and brightest to New York.” in communication … whether through and took up my duties here in New Although his career has kept educational exchanges, the Internet, York immediately,” he says. him – quite literally – on the move, speakers, TV – the whole range of the As part of the U.S. delegation, Holliday has stayed in touch with the communications spectrum.” Holliday focuses primarily on peace- School. During Alumni Weekend In May 2002, Holliday was keeping issues, working to address some 2002, he returned to Avon Old Farms appointed coordinator of International of the most pressing international to talk to students about “life after Information Programs (IIP) within the questions. His priorities have included Avon,” 9/11, and his career. He gave State Department. The coordinator working with the U.N. to stabilize the boys a perspective on how to take (the rank equivalent to an assistant Iraq, insuring free and fair elections in what they’ve learned at Avon and secretary) reports to the Under Afghanistan, and responding to the carry it forward to “real life.” Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy humanitarian crisis in the Darfur Holliday’s advice to students at and Public Affairs. International region of Sudan. Avon now? “I would just say that I Information Programs (IIP) is the think that Avonians — students — principal international strategic com- “Avon taught me to do things. should keep their eyes open to what is munications service for the foreign That has carried over to every happening in the world around them affairs community. aspect of my life and career.” and be prepared for a future where Then, in 2002, Holliday was their best opportunities and their offered the position at the United most significant challenges may come Nations, where he represents the U.S. It’s a job that keeps Holliday on from outside the U.S.” in the Security Council. “I am very his toes. “Just this past week [late “Avon taught me to do things,” fortunate to have been selected by the September], we had the president and Holliday says emphatically. “That has President for this position and very Secretary Powell outline America’s carried over to every aspect of my life fortunate to have a great boss in former goals for the United Nations for the and career. No amount of exposure or Senator Jack Danforth,” says Holliday. coming year, most of which involves interest can replace execution and Danforth was appointed U.N. ambas- the promotion of democracy and civil action. And Avon prepares you to sador by George W. Bush, following society as a way to lift people out of take action every day.” in the footsteps of such statesmen as poverty and to fight radical ideologies,”

Avonian 24 Building on the Riddle Foundation By Seth Mendell ’52 Alumni Association President

he first significant changes in terms The headmastership of George of buildings on the Avon campus Trautman brought many changes to the T took place in the 1960s. For approx- campus. The early 1970s saw the completion imately 33 years, from 1927 when Mrs. of the Jennings Hockey Rink (later the Riddle opened the school until the ’30s, Jennings-Fairchild Rink). This covered there was little change. True, the Refectory open-air facility with artificial ice initiated was completed the year following the open- a hockey program that has produced ing and the garage building (Brown House) numerous championship teams. Next, on a was constructed in the early 1940s, but that lesser scale, was the construction of a two- was all. The school closed in 1944 and the story log cabin behind the gym to serve as US Army used the campus as a convalescent the school store and student lounge, known hospital for men blinded in military service. as the Hawk’s Nest. (This building will After Avon Old Farms reopened in soon be razed to make way for the New 1948 under the leadership of Donald Student Center and Athletic Center.) Pierpont, the School struggled with finan- Long overdue on the campus was an cial problems. In the 1950s, the faculty took adequate library. Thanks to the architectural a salary cut and land was sold to keep the genius of Stephen Holt ’58, the north end school open. However, by the 1960s, due of the old powerhouse was transformed into in part to Headmaster Pierpont’s dogged the Baxter Library after a lengthy renova- determination to see the School succeed, tion. The upstairs of Mrs. Riddle’s original Avon was ready to embark on a program of bank building, that had housed the library, building and renovating which continues became the Estabrook Board Room with to this day. office space on the first floor, now the First was the Pierpont Activities Headmaster’s office. Center in 1965, constructed over the swim- The old station or freight house on ming pool built in ’45 by the Army for Scoville Road, long in disrepair, was thor- the veterans. Other major projects during oughly restored thanks to the expertise of that decade included building three faculty Wilber Durphey. It was transformed into homes, refurbishing the Barnes Gallery, and a gracious guest house and new faculty renovating the language and science labs apartments. and the top floor of Elephant dormitory. Following a successful capital campaign in 1979 for bricks and mortar, the remain- ing half of the powerhouse was overhauled to create the Adams Theatre. New science classrooms were also created in that wing and the entire complex including the Baxter Library became the Aron Academic Center. A two-story log dormitory, named Jennings House, was built next to the Hawk’s Nest. Early in the 1980s, engineers deter- mined that the water tower could no longer support the 88,000-gallon water tank that served the campus. Large cisterns were buried in the green by the chapel and pumps were installed in the basement of the garage building (Brown House) to provide the The refectory under construction.

25 Fall 2004 (Riddle Foundation Continued from page 25) When Kenneth LaRocque became headmaster in 1998, he worked necessary water pressure. The tank in with the Board to develop a strategic the tower was removed in pieces, and plan for the future, defining and prior- the tower, along with the adjacent itizing building goals. One of the first “Forge Theatre,” was renovated to cre- priorities was to improve vehicular ate the Ordway Art Gallery. traffic flow on campus. A new entrance and access road from Old Farms Road The chapel. into the back of the campus was built to accommodate all truck delivery to to the Barnes Gallery, replacement the kitchen and all traffic to and from of the dam at Beaver Pond, new slate the hockey rink. A large parking lot roofs on both the chapel and the Aron was built on the south side of the rink Academic Center, beautifying the old at the same time. “dumpster” area behind the kitchen, An enormous upgrade for the air conditioning in the library, and sciences was a new state-of-the-art in the summer of 2004, a new all- science building, the Ordway Science weather track. and Technology Center, dedicated in Now on the drawing board is, 2002. Designed by architect Rich The water tower. without doubt, the most ambitious of Connell ’74, the three-story structure all projects Avon has ever embarked During the ’80s, the student is built into the bluff next to the Aron upon. The Student Activities Center body was growing, along with the Academic Center and represents the and Field House Complex, to be number of faculty. Once again inno- largest new construction effort on the located between the gym and hockey vative renovations turned something campus to date. rink facing the Village Green, will old into something new: the large At alumni weekend in 2002, the significantly enhance the daily life garage building across from the water athletic fields were dedicated as the of the Old Farms school community. tower became Brown House, a com- George Trautman Athletic Fields in Mrs. Riddle may not have plex of faculty apartments around a recognition of Trautman’s tireless agreed with everything that has been core of dormitory rooms. For many efforts to improve athletics during his done on campus over the years, but years, the visual arts department had 29 years as headmaster. Other building she would be pleased with the results, occupied the first floor of that build- and renovating projects associated success, and prestige the school has ing. At about the same time, the with the strategic plan included two achieved. The physical growth of the Estabrook Fine Arts Center was built new faculty duplexes on campus, a campus, the buildings bearing the adjacent to the Brown House for both new single-family faculty home, the names of alumni, and the continuous the visual arts and music departments. Leavitt-Mendell Day Student Center groundswell of support are testament Next up was the transformation in the Aron Academic Center, the to the dedication of our alumni. Avon of the old army infirmary into a new Carpenter Baseball Field, the Globe is also fortunate to have strong support dormitory known as Jamerson House. Foundation Tennis Complex, a new from parents, grandparents and friends Leaving only a footprint, the old heating plant to serve the campus, of the school. We can all be proud of building was razed and replaced with replacement of the outside stone steps what has been accomplished. a new structure with a brick façade and cedar shake roof, housing classrooms, dorm rooms and faculty apartments. In the late 1980s, the hockey rink, nearly 20 years old, underwent a complete facelift including extensive dressing and training areas, new roof, ice-making machinery, exterior walls and climate control, making the Jennings Fairchild Hockey Rink one of the premier facilities in the private school circuit. The village green.

Avonian 26 Alumni & Development News

Peter Seeger ’36 ªeunion 2004 Returns to The Farm Pete Seeger ’36, A forecast for rain 48 hours before any Avon Old Farms Reunion is is an icon in usually a “good” sign that the weather will be marvelous. That turned out American cul- to be the case this year as over 300 alumni made their pilgrimage back to ture, and, while cur- campus to reunite with their friends and faculty and to reconnect with the rent Avon Old Farms stu- campus they love so much. dents may not always rec- Highlights of the weekend included the alumni golf outing on Friday ognize his influence on afternoon at Tunxis Plantation Golf Club and the many class gatherings the music they enjoy Friday evening. Pete Seeger ’36 entertained and enlightened the students every day, they never fail following Friday classes. to appreciate his pres- On Friday evening, many alumni (especially those from the founder’s ence and the songs era) had a great time at the Nimrod Cabin and the Classes of 1934, 1939, Self Portrait that he plays for them. 1954, 1959 and 1964 had a memorable time at the headmaster’s home. Pete returned to campus Ted Molloy ’74 hosted a family-style barbecue at his home in Granby and on Friday, May 7 for a short perform- Dr. Bob Gryboski ’57 hosted a lively party for his son David’s class of 1999 ance in the Adams Theatre and for in Farmington. that evening’s Verne Priest Supper. The Classes of 1979 and 1984 joined forces at the Golf Club of Avon His afternoon concert had a for a fun evening of remembrances. The Class of 1984 also invited the festive atmosphere. At 85, Pete tells classes of ’83 and ’85, which increased the numbers and the good times. us that his voice is not what it once The Classes of 1969, 1989 and 1994 had smaller, but meaningful gather- was, but he has always insisted that ings at Apricots, First and Last Tavern, and Little Mark’s Big Barbecue audiences sing along, and the boys respectively. were happy to oblige. They may not On Saturday morning, John Carroll ’99 and Curt Pandiscio ’79 tied have arrived for the concert knowing each other to win the 27th Annual Pennell Road Race in a time of 36:59, the refrains to such Seeger songs as with several runners not far behind. Meanwhile, Rich Connell ’74 hosted Turn, Turn, Turn and The Hammer his “award-winning” school architectural tour which drew a large number Song, but they learned quickly and of alumni and guests. sang loudly. If Pete’s voice has waned Later that morning, everyone gathered for the inauguration of the over the years, his fingers have not, Athletic Hall of Fame. (See story on page 3.) and he played the 5-string banjo and The remainder of Saturday featured the alumni parade, reunion 12-string guitar with extraordinary luncheon, tours of the new Ordway Science and Technology Center, dexterity and ease. student athletic contests, class pictures, and a reunion banquet where As he explained the context of George Trautman was honored for his 35 years of service to the School. each song, Pete had an opportunity to On Sunday, alumni and their families were invited to a bountiful touch on subjects dear to his heart, brunch in the Riddle Refectory. Alumni gathered in the school chapel at among them human rights, the labor 11 a.m. for a service to remember alumni, faculty, and friends of the movement, and the environment. School. Colonel Caldwell, Sid Clark, Don Wick, Bernie Hammons, John “The most important thing,” he said, Gile ’39, Peter Carriuolo ’77, Jan Nesbitt ’54, Peter Behr ’71, Tom Smith “is to ask the right questions.” From ’74, and Durno Chambers ’51 were remembered fondly. the questions they asked, it was clear The alumni lacrosse game was the last scheduled event of the week- that his audience was as interested in end, but since it was Mother’s Day, the turnout wasn’t huge. However, 12 his thoughts on these topics — and lacrosse alumni did appear and they, along with several lacrosse-playing his history of activism — as they were adults in the area, and several varsity lacrosse players, did get an opportu- in his music. The men of Avon were nity to show off their skills. The result was a lively game where two even- impressed, and they left the theater ly-matched teams made up of alumni, adults, and varsity players had a humming folk songs and wishing great afternoon of lacrosse. The final score was 14 –13, in overtime. there had been another encore. That evening, Pete attended the All alumni are invited to campus this May 6-8 to enjoy Reunion 2005. Verne Priest Supper, an annual event Henry R. Coons ’71 that takes place at the Nimrod Cabin during Alumni Weekend. Alumni from the Founder’s Era, and from the ’50s and ’60s, gather at the cabin to

27 Fall 2004 ¤eadership Weekend 2004

At Alumni Leadership Weekend on October 1-2, more than 40 alumni class agents joined the board of directors to plan and collaborate on their respective 2004-2005 programs. Avonians gathered Friday night for a social hour at the headmaster’s residence, followed by dinner in the Riddle Refectory. After dinner, each member of the student council gave a report on the opening of school and officially introduced the school’s new Winged Beaver mascot. One of the evening’s high- Pete Seeger. lights was the presentation of the Alumni Order of Old Farms medal to G. Garvin Brown ’62 by Board enjoy dinner and conversation around Garvin Brown III ’62 and Campbell Brown ’86 at Chairman Rolf Olson ’59. Garvin the campfire. There, he got to remi- the Leadership Weekend dinner. has been involved with Avon Old nisce with Donald “Pete” Hart ’36, Farms for close to 50 years, first Lothar Candels ’43 and other Founder’s as a 7th-grade student in 1956, as a board member beginning in 1984, and as a Era alumni, and to visit with more concsistently loyal benefactor. Upon receiving the medal, he remarked, “This is recent alumni, faculty, and staff. more than I expected … I have taken a sabbatical from some things in my life This was actually not Pete’s only from time to time, but never from Avon Old Farms. This is a great honor.” visit to campus this year. In March, he Mr. Brown has been a loyal alumnus and friend of Avon, serving on the returned with a film crew making a board of directors for many years. His sons Campbell ’86 (who is now an active documentary about his life. At that member of the board himself) and G. Garvin ’87 (who has previously served on time, he wandered through the quad and the Village Green reminiscing about the school mates and teachers he encountered here in the ’30s. As he looked up at his old window in Eagle, it was clear that his memories of life at school are quite vivid, and he smiled broadly as he told stories of schoolboy pranks and shenanigans. According to Pete, he was allowed to remain at Avon as a student only because Mrs. Riddle so enjoyed his underground newspaper, which is where she learned the campus gossip. He spoke in great detail of the process of putting the paper out and showed some of the surviving copies to his biographers. Whether as an underground reporter in Mrs. Riddle’s village or as a legendary musician and activist 70 years later, Pete Seeger is very much at home on the Avon Old Farms campus. Garvin Brown accepts the Alumni Order of Old Farms from Board Chairman Rolf Olson ’59. We hope he will return frequently. Arthur B.W. Custer

Avonian 28 Class Agents Doug Marshall ’59 and Winston McKellar ’69. Behind them, Rolf Olson ’59, John Gardner, Bill Beatson ’59, and Sioux Olson. Ellyn Marshall talks with Director of Development Peter Evans.

The School’s new mascot, Patrick Irwin ’05, School Warden, addresses the Bevan. The winged beaver board of directors and class agents at Friday’s dinner. made his official debut at the Alumni Leadership dinner. Richard and Dee Gordon with George Trautman (center).

the board) have also remained com- members of the board of directors The leadership weekend also mitted to the School. It was the Brown were treated to a special “Avon Today” marked the kick-off to the 2004-2005 family’s generous and timely gift that event following their normal meetings. alumni program. The alumni leader- was key in the decision to begin The Saturday morning session was ship set a goal of $1 million for the construction on Avon’s new Student designed to illustrate how Avon Old annual fund and also worked on plans Center and Athletic Complex with Farms functions on a daily basis. for reunion weekend, May 6-8, 2005. Field House. The gift allowed Avon Highlights of the program included Members of the class agent team and to commit to constructing the entire a student panel, comments from the board of directors departed from facility all at once, rather than to Brendon Welker ’91, director of the weekend with a clear understand- build in two phases, as was originally admissions, an update on the capital ing of the state of the School and its thought necessary. Groundbreaking building projects from Peter Evans, future, and energized to support the for the new facility will take place in director of development, and a demon- Avon Old Farms 2004-2005 March, 2005. The facility is scheduled stration of technology in action in alumni program. to be completed by September 2006. Avon classrooms: a history presentation Rob Dowling ’91 This year’s Saturday agenda on by Dean of Faculty Art Custer and a Director of Alumni Annual Giving Leadership Weekend included a new science demonstration by Academic program, as the class agents and Dean and Senior Master Bill Kron.

29 Fall 2004 Class Notes

From the Verne Priest Supper, Reunion Weekend 2004.

Directors meeting and Alumni 84, Fayette is still restoring ªeunion Leadership weekend. Both said old pieces of furniture and Pat eadmaster Ken LaRocque it was wonderful to see the handles the non-furniture part H and his wife, Heidi, invite School in such good shape. of the operation. the Class of 1935, 1940, 1945, Richard Price wrote, “Although 1950, 1955, 1960, 1965, and I have visited Greg Lindin at 1970 to join them at their 1940 his home in Sedalia, Colorado, home for dinner on Friday 65th Reunion Year I mistakenly listed his state night, May 6, 2005, during address in the last issue of the Richard Price Avonian as California, for which Reunion Weekend. Enjoying Reunion 2004 are student and teacher: Carl Candels ’51 and Class Agent I apologize. I am reminded his German and Latin teacher while Arlyn Farm, 55 Towne Road again of Matson (Bud) Ewell, at Avon — Donald (Pete) Hart ’36. Boxford, MA 01921-2234 whom I also wrote about in the 1936 [email protected] last Avonian. Bud, among his other artistic activities, has in Donald R. Hart Jr. Fayette Plum and his wife, Pat, the past been actively involved Class Agent were featured in the September in producing summer produc- Post Office Box 127 8th issue of The Ambler Gazette. tions of Shakespeare in the Dark West Cornwall, CT 06796-0127 They hosted a meeting of the in his hometown of Fairport, [email protected] Historical Society of Whitpain New York, and has also pub- at their antiques store, Troll lished a book of his poems. Pete Seeger was on campus House Antiques, in Blue Bell, Hopefully all members of the during Reunion in May, per- Pennsylvania. The main show- Class of 1940 will have one forming in the Adams Theater room is located next to their especially big opportunity to for the entire student body home with a back showroom, meet again at our rapidly and faculty. restoration shop, and warehouse approaching 65th Reunion Back row: Pete Hart ’36, Carl on their 1.5-acre property. At Weekend in 2005.” Reed Estabrook and his wife, Candels ’51, Rust Kessel ’54; Nancy, were on campus Front row: Jerry Sherry ’54, Jack October 1 for the Board of Miscall ’54, Harry Burt ’54.

Avonian 30 Class Notes

Orleans, where Lori and his 1942 wife, Judith, plan to return the first weekend in May. He is Russell Hunter very involved in Masonic work Head Class Agent (Shriners is a Masonic organi- Post Office Box 22 zation), and he is treasurer of Farmington, CT 06034-0022 the Masonic Angel Foundation which takes care of children when their needs “fall through 1945 the cracks” of social agencies. For more on Lorrie and The 60th Reunion Year Masonic Angel Foundation, see http://www.masonicangelfund. Ben Byers has moved to org/NewsItems/newsitem139. Hartford within walking dis- htm. and http://www.masonic- tance of the Athenaeum. Ben angelfund.org/NewsItems/newsi left Avon when it closed in tem138.htm. 1944, and graduated from On either side of graduating senior Gilman Alex Callsen ’04, are (from left) Tyler Cranbrook. He hopes to visit Callsen ’06, Griff Ordway, Gil Ordway ’44, Gigi Martz, Kitty Ordway, and Sean Avon again during his 60TH Martz. (Tyler, Alex and Sean are Gil’s grandsons); Griff, Gigi, and Kitty are reunion weekend in May. Gil’s children. Kitty is mother of Alex ’04 and Tyler ’06 and a current Avon Board member.) (See also pages 8-9.) Jim Storer and his wife Dede hosted Peter and Sue Evans daughter and 1 1/2-year-old from Avon Old Farms at their grandson. Their son, Andrew club in Naples, Florida, in lives in Belmont, Massachusetts, March. Jim retired from Storer has two children (4 1/2 and 1 Broadcasting and was on the year), and is building a vaca- Board until 1985 when the tion home next door to his company was bought out. Jim From left: Paula and Jim Flippin ’57 parents. Paul says it is really keeps busy with various con- had a great time salmon fishing in fun to have watched his chil- cerns and causes including the Riversong, Alaska, with Elliot Tuckel dren’s summer friends grow up ’57 and his wife, Kathy. environment. He is most inter- and all come back with their ested in helping to support own children. He was on the scholarship students at various Last March Don Monaco ’55 visited reunion committee for WPI’s Ohio colleges. He and Dede Walter White ’47 and his wife, Karen, in their home in Antigua, Guatemala. 50TH reunion and was back for hope to be back to visit Avon. 1952 After Walter left Avon, he went to his 50TH at Avon before that. Jim has not been at Avon since Lawrenceville School in New Jersey He hopes to see a bigger Seth F. Mendell it closed (temporarily) in 1944, and St. George’s in Newport, Rhode turnout for the 55TH and may Head Class Agent and he and his brother had to Island. Walter graduated from contact you by email! As a 28 North Street finish at Cranbrook. Hobart College and after serving Mattapoisett, MA 02739 two years in the U.S. Army, went to reminder to classmates, remem- graduate school at Babson School ber to look at www.avonold- [email protected] of Business Administration. farms.com for updates about reunion and news about the school, as well as to update your 1953 email address for the school and Jay Toole, Head Class Agent 1950 for classmates by clicking on “alumni” through that website. 874 Ridgeside Drive 55th Reunion Year Monrovia, CA 91016 [email protected] Paul Alasso is retired but still Lorrie Armstrong is retired doing some consulting. He and from mechanical engineering his wife, Juliana, are living in and reports from his place in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL that 1955 Enjoying the banquet during Reunion Little Compton, Rhode Island, Weekend were Richard Thorndike in the vacation/retirement they had very minimal damage 50th Reunion Year ’57 and his wife, Peggy, and Harry home they bought 45 years from hurricanes (4 shingles!) Burt ’53. ago. Daughter Sarah lives in His daughter lives in the same Amasa Rust Kessel Westport, Massachusetts, a complex in Florida and his son Head Class Agent is in Needham, Massachusetts, short distance from them, and 3785 Thistlewood about a two-hour drive from they get to babysit frequently Okemos, MI 48864 Lorrie's Cape Cod home in for their 3 1/2-year-old grand- [email protected]

31 Fall 2004 Class Notes

Don Monaco’s travels have connected him to Avonians the world over. Last summer, Don was wearing an Avon baseball cap when he was stopped by Duncan Broatch ’73 and asked about his connection to the School. It happened both were staying at the Surf Hotel on Block Island. Duncan, Al Rozinsky ’62 and his wife, Bobbie, who lives in Woodstock, at Reunion 2004. (Bobbie teaches Connecticut, was enjoying a “Exploring Creativity,” architecture, weekend with his son, Ethan and honors geometry at Avon.) (13). Don similarly met Walter White ’43 while wearing an Avon cap in Guatemala. 1956 John Oartel wrote last March: Richard G. Stahlman “I finished the season for Lyric Head Class Agent Opera of Chicago this after- Cheney’s Point Class of ’59: Front row: Ty Place, George Motter, Chuck Davis, Steve Schwolsky. 3044 Chautauqua Avenue noon. We have already started Back row: Peter Ramsey, David McShane, Ed Rickard, Rolf Olson. selling seats to subscribers for Ashville, NY 14710 the 50th-year Golden Jubilee [email protected] Season with seven operas (September 2004 to March 2005). The eighth opera in the 1957 Golden Season is The Ring (Wagner), March 28 through James C. Flippin April 16, 2005, in three cycles Head Class Agent with a Valhallan cast. This is 1311 Old Bernville Road keeping Lyric Opera busy with Leesport, PA 19533-9605 questions from every country. [email protected] I thought some people might be interested in the Golden Season we will be celebrating 1958 here in Chicago.” Austin Chambers Head Class Agent 317 Flanders Road Garvin Brown III ’62 and Campbell Brown ’86 studying the plans for Stonington, CT 06378-2109 Avon’s new Student Center and Athletic Complex. The Browns (includ- [email protected] ing Garvin IV ’87, not pictured), have stepped up as lead supporters for this vitally important project. Stephen Lash is now a member of the Board of Directors at Avon. Last April, for the second year in a row, he volunteered to be the auctioneer at the School’s Spring Parents Auction, Dr. Peter Mogielnicki ’58 and his wife, bringing in a record-breaking Nancy, enjoyed lunch at Skipper’s total of $158,000 for the live and Dock in Stonington, Connecticut, silent auction. Steve is chair- with classmate Austin Chambers man of Christie’s in New York. ’58 and his wife, Susan. Austin remarked, “After not seeing each other since our Avon graduation, we picked up right where we left off.” 1959 Douglas B. Marshall Head Class Agent Provost John Gardner, Steve Gorman ’86, Donnell Camp ’59, and Rob 2 Berkshire Road Dowling ’91 enjoyed playing in the Alumni Golf Tournament together Bloomfield, CT 06002 Friday of Reunion Weekend 2004. [email protected]

Avonian 32 Class Notes

1969 Winston P. McKellar Head Class Agent 311 East Rose Lane Phoenix, AZ 85012-1243 [email protected]

Bruce Berry and fellow Avonian, Lee Terry, had a great Reunion 2004: David Coleman ’69, time fly fishing in the Bahamas. Kim DesMarais ’69, George Purnell ’68 Lee accomplished the difficult and Phil Gaucher ’69. task of landing a 6 1/2-pound bonefish.

The Matalon family joins together to celebrate Ryan’s graduation: David Davis is president of the cousin Josh Truppman, aunt Linda Truppman, mother Joanie Matalon, 2004-2005 Tournament of brother Daniel Matalon ’00, Ryan ’04, uncle Paul Matalon ’70, grand- 1970 Roses. The 116th Rose Parade, mother Hiliary Matalon, and cousins Rachel and Andrew Matalon’01. themed “Celebrate Family”, will 35th Reunion Year take place on Saturday, January Harris H. Bucklin III 1, 2005, at 8:00 a.m. (PST), Head Class Agent featuring “majestic floral floats, 3004 Margaret Jones Lane high-stepping equestrian units, 1961 1965 Williamsburg, VA 23185 and spirited marching bands George F. Henschel Jr. 40th Reunion Year [email protected] from throughout the nation.” Head Class Agent See www.tournamentofroses. 101 Seminary Road Barton G. Barrett com/corp/press_2005Pres.htm Bedford, NY 10506 Co-Head Class Agent to read the complete article on [email protected] 1 Maple Avenue 1971 David’s election and the many Richmond, VA 23226-2339 Henry R. Coons qualifications he brings to the [email protected] Head Class Agent position. 1962 Avon Old Farms School 500 Old Farms Road Alan D. Rozinsky 1966 Avon, CT 06001 Head Class Agent [email protected] Avon Old Farms School Michael D. Barker 500 Old Farms Road Head Class Agent Avon, CT 06001 139 Kirkwood Road [email protected] West Hartford, CT 06117-2835 [email protected] 1964 1967 Spencer Beal ’65 rafting on the W. B. Harwood III Colorado River in the Grand Canyon Reunion Chair James W. Corrigan with about 38 friends, including Erika Co-Head Class Agent and Peter Aron ’65 (not pictured). 24 Overhill Avenue New Britain, CT 06053 826 Gould Hill Road Contoocook, NH 03229 Michael Nouri co-starred with [email protected] Patti LuPone in the New York 1960 revival of Can-Can in February 2004. Last fall, at the Goodspead 1968 45th Reunion Year Opera House in Haddam, Bob Gartzman ’73 visited campus Connecticut, Nouri played George L. Purnell this summer with his wife, Theresa, Richard L. Williams Rodin in Camille Claudel, a Head Class Agent and son, Hayden. Head Class Agent musical about the French 110 Watch Hill Road Post Office Box 218 sculptor’s mistress. Branford, CT 06405 South Orleans, MA 02662-0218 [email protected] [email protected]

33 Fall 2004 Class Notes

Henry Coons has just begun their weekend house in Malden Edward P. Molloy his 29th year at Avon. In spring Bridge, New York. It’s a fund- Co-Head Class Agent 2004, his varsity tennis team raising event where people 6 Winhart Drive had another successful season, enjoy a cocktail reception at Granby, CT 06035 winning 14 matches against the Opera House and then [email protected] only 3 losses. In the past three move on in small groups to seasons, the team has won 44 dine in one of the spectacular Congratulations to Mark matches and has lost only 7. historic homes in the city of DeBlois, who married Chris He is currently focusing his Hudson. Chris wrote, “I was Novicki on June 5, 2004. efforts on deferred giving and particularly excited because Thomas Mayer wrote, “I’ve just capital gifts for the new Student Charlie Bell (3), youngest child of having learned that my 1973 been accepted into the first Center and Field House. This Jeb Bell ’74, won seventh place out classmate and Hudson resident advanced-standing graduate past summer he enjoyed visiting of 53 contestants at the Devon Windle Davis was hosting one Horse Show. He was also one of the class at the UCONN School with many alumni and friends of the dinners, I specifically youngest competitors. of Social Work. I graduated in of the School throughout New requested to attend the dinner May from Western Connecticut England and also traveled out held in his home—itself a his- State University, a member of west to see Orod Sayyah ’82 toric theater in a dramatic loft Phi Alpha honor society (Chi in Indianapolis and Borum ’89 space. At the cocktail reception Sigma Chapter), a recipient and John Cooper ’87 in I was disappointed to learn that of the Beatrice K. Nemzer Bentonville, Arkansas. Henry’s Windle had been forced to Student Recognition Award, wife, Marie, still works in the travel to Florida to visit his Outstanding Senior, Craig Baxter Library, where she mother. Thinking that was the Lundwall Memorial Scholarship enjoys working with the boys end of any Avon connection, I and the WCSU Foundation on research projects. Each turned around and saw some- Scholarship. Four years ago, at Thursday in the fall and spring one approaching me. Imagine the age of 43, I was accepted to she leads area hikes for adults my surprise when he introduced WCSU. I hadn’t had an aca- as part of the Farmington con- himself as Chris Carone, Class demic experience in 25 years. tinuing education program. of 1971! I remembered him Amazingly, the training and She usually has between a well, and had no idea he had study habits that I somehow dozen and several dozen adults settled down in nearby Valatie, (don’t ask me how — must participating each week. New York. We had a great time have been osmosis) accrued at Henry’s daughter, Christina, catching up, and as I spied a Avon have served me well graduated from Muhlenberg photographer milling about, these many years later.” College in May 2004 and is an Ellie (11), daughter of Jeb Bell ’74, won asked her to take the attached intern history teacher at Culver photo for posterity.” [see photo] a ribbon for this competitive jump. Bill Batesole and Barrett Holby Academy in Culver, Indiana. took a sailing trip last year with Christina is an assistant coach friends in the Virgin Islands. for varsity girls’ soccer and will 1974 also coach girls’ lacrosse. 1972 Jeb Bell bought a new house Daughter Brittany is a junior at George J. Giannoni Kevin J. Driscoll adjoining his farm, adding St. Lawrence University, where Co-Head Class Agent Class Agent additional acres and access. Jeb she plays on the volleyball and 36 Twilight Drive Avon Old Farms School lacrosse teams. Casey Coons ’06 Granby, CT 06035-1212 500 Old Farms Road is a junior at Avon and is play- [email protected] Avon, CT 06001 ing goalie for Coach Beneski’s [email protected] “mighty mighty fourths” soccer team. Last year he enjoyed playing JV hockey and was co-captain of JV lacrosse along with Steve Driscoll ’06, the 1973 son of Joe Driscoll ’72. The JV Ron Protasewich lacrosse team is coached by Head Class Agent Peter Rice ’76, son of Harry 40 Pine Lake Road Rice, who coached football at Duxbury, MA 02332-4339 Avon in 1969 and 1970 and [email protected] was Casey’s dad’s football Chris Atkins ’73 caught up with coach at Avon. Chris Atkins and his wife, Fred Michel ’77 enjoyed a trip to Chris Carone ’71 at the Hudson Lauren, attended the annual Ireland in the summer of 2004. One Opera House gathering last spring. Hudson Opera House Movable of his stops was the Bushmills Feast last March 2004, near Distillery in Northern Ireland.

Avonian 34 Class Notes

in support of Operations Noble 1976 Eagle, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. Our unit was Alexander N. Worley deployed to numerous locations Head Class Agent providing air refueling missions 20 Shore Grove Road to various aircraft. I still remain Clinton, CT 06413 active in club lacrosse as the [email protected] goalie for the Circle City Lacrosse Club in Indianapolis Gary Gerken and his wife, and also in the Kokomo Civic Petrona, announced the arrival Theater, where I will be por- of their third child, Charlotte traying the role of Benny Lt. Col. Asad Khan ’78 is serving the Victoria, born March 24, 2004. U.S. military in Afghanistan, where Southstreet in the upcoming he is currently assigned as battalion musical Guys and Dolls.” commander for First Battalion Sixth Peik Van Waveren emailed, Marines. According to Major John “Over the summer I had the Bill Cross wrote to announce Bourgault, now a teacher at Avon, pleasure of meeting one of your Steven Cramer ’79 and his wife, the high school graduation of Asad is “a legend” in the Marine Corps. Martha, announce the arrival of faculty while fishing on his eldest son, Tyler. As a senior Nantucket. We were fortunate Maddox, born May 25, 2004, at Mount Auburn Hospital in at Longmont High in Colorado, enough to have Captain Corey Cambridge. Martha now works he served as captain of his wrote, “Eventually the move Gammill as our skipper. My for the Global Health Initiative at school’s drumline. Ty attends will make life easier; however, daughter, son, and some friends Harvard, and Steven works for Ohio University and plans to the house needs a lot of work who were visiting us all went psychologist and Harvard professor study architectural design. before we move in, so our fishing off the Nantucket shoals Howard Gardner, doing research on Nova Scotia trip this year for blues and stripers. We had a interdisciplinary education as part of Project Zero. could be in jeopardy.” All three great time, and it was fun to of his children compete in horse catch up with someone from 1978 shows, and at the first show Avon.” Corey teaches history Kenneth G. Cloud Greg DeMaio wrote, “I am sta- where all three competed, they at Avon and is one of the Head Class Agent all won ribbons! varsity soccer coaches. tioned at Grissom Air Reserve Base in Indiana, about 45 miles 107 North Wilton Road north of Indianapolis. Grissom Richmond, VA 23226 1975 1977 is home to the 434th Air [email protected] Refueling Wing, the largest air Lt. Col. Asad Khan is currently 30th Reunion Year Jorge E. Consuegra refueling wing in the Air Force assigned as the battalion com- Head Class Agent reserve. I am an aircraft main- mander for First Battalion Sixth 5 Andrews Road tenance officer and currently Marines. The unit is deployed ªeunion Greenwich, CT 06830 the commander of the 434th to Afghanistan for combat [email protected] Maintenance Squadron. Our operations. Cheryl and Asad’s he Class of 1975 will gather unit was activated right after son, Caleb, recently became a T for their 30th Reunion the 9/11 and we’ve been mobilized weekend of May 6-7. Alumni may view details as they are updated on our website — www.avonoldfarms.com. Bob Applegate ClassAgent 622 Hillendale Road Chadds Ford, PA 19317-9364 [email protected]

David Jack is working on many new initiatives in advertising. He lives in Stamford, Connecticut, with his wife, Tammy, and children, Emily Steve Glover ’79, his wife, Sheri, and (12) and Gregory (8). children Chloe (7), Spencer (5), and Fiona (2) enjoyed Steve’s 25th Reunion, and the induction of his Reunion 2004: Back row: Ted Garber, Jim (Boog) Powell ’79, Brian 1979 lacrosse team to Avon’s Hall Maitland ’80. Front row: Marianne Ritz, Charles Oliver Ritz ’79, Mr. of Fame. Mark, Bob Mark ’80.

35 Fall 2004 Class Notes

interdisciplinary lesson plans, to compare notes on best teaching practices, and to understand how one teaching discipline can inform another. Martha and I went to hear Dr. Paul Farmer speak at the Medical School about his work in Haiti — after reading Tracy Kidder’s book we wanted to see Last spring, Eric Johnson ’80 visited if he was human or superhero. campus with his mother, Helene, and He wore a suit.” stepfather, Doug Haugland, who are shown here with Peter Evans. Doug took some great shots with his digital camera and really enjoyed the archi- 1980 tecture of the school. 25th Reunion Year Members of the Class of 1984 in the Refectory on Reunion Weekend: Back row: Carl Valimont, Preston Cherouny, Andy Horning, Dean Graham, Fred Kenvin, Blake Beath, Leland Alper. Front row: Ted Blaine, Keith Tanny, Mark McGinley, Stuart Holliday, E4 Twining. midshipman at the U.S. Naval ªeunion Academy. Jesseca and Syra are he Class of 1980 will gather at home with mom at Camp Tfor their 25th Reunion the Lejeune, North Carolina. weekend of May 6-7. Alumni may view details as they are Mike Farmer defended his dis- sertation on February 9th. He updated on our website — now has a Ph.D. in computer www.avonoldfarms.com. science from Michigan State Kenneth H. Blanchard University. Co-Head Class Agent 846 Mountain Road West Hartford, CT 06117 1979 [email protected] Anthony M. Gray Thomas E. Davey Co-Head Class Agent Co-Head Class Agent 6212 Wagner Lane 4816 Sandestin Drive Bethesda, MD 20816 Dallas, TX 75287 [email protected] [email protected] Juan Nieves ’83, Stuart Holliday ’84, E4 Twining ’84. Scott B. Linke Ben Lucarelli is acting as Co-Head Class Agent owner’s representative during 16 Eleven Levels Road construction of the new home to, check out www.trtc.org. Go up this way. Whistler/ Ridgefield, CT 06877-3009 of Two River Theatre Company to TRTC’s new home and then Blackcomb is growing and [email protected] (TRTC) in Red Bank, New to construction update. He getting pumped for the 2010 Jersey. The new theater space photographed most of the con- Olympics.” Matt works as a Steve Cramer and his wife, of 300 seats will allow the struction pictures and is the systems analyst in the computer Martha, had a baby boy May audience to share more deeply project’s leading fund-raiser. science department at Western 25, 2004. Steve emailed last in the experience and partici- The first show at Two River Washington University. February, “My wife is six pate more actively in the art of Theatre Red Bank is scheduled months along now and Martha the stage. There will be space for May 7, 2005. is already asking me to disci- for theater arts classes and room pline the child. ‘Tell him to 1981 to expand popular educational Matt Paskus and his wife, stop kicking,’ she says. I think programming. Ben emailed Tamra, have two daughters, Samuel C. Bookbinder we have another soccer player/ Peter Evans, “It looks like my Ali (9) and Liz (13), two dogs, Head Class Agent drummer on the way. I am participation in the AOF a cat, and a rabbit, and we’ve Two Logan Square, Suite 700 working on Howard Gardner’s theater club started me down a heard he’s considering adding 18th & Arch Streets Good Work research team here very rewarding path. Your words chickens and a goat as they Philadelphia, PA 19103-2707 at Harvard. We are working to keep my options open have live in farming country in [email protected] with outstanding teachers in guided me along the way.” If Washington state. Matt emailed the Boston area to design new you want to see what Ben is up George Getz, “Skiing is great

Avonian 36 Class Notes

1982 Brian B. Conroy Chairman of Annual Fund, Co-Head Class Agent 47 Thurton Drive New Canaan, CT 06840 [email protected]

Gregory T. Fish Co-Head Class Agent Dean Graham ’84 currently serves 12 Brick Walk Lane on Avon’s Board of Directors. He is Farmington, CT 06032-2313 pictured vacationing in Chatham, [email protected] Cape Cod, with his wife Deb, and children Jack, Joe, and Katie. Jamie Lindemuth and his wife, Fred Kenvin ’84, Mark McGinley ’84, Andy Horning ’84 and Dean Graham ’84 Leah, announced the arrival of caught up at Reunion 2004. Caroline, born November 4, Rafael Laffitte emailed Peter 2003. He emailed in early Evans, “I am doing great. I 2004, “We actually celebrated have two daughters ages 16 and her four-month birthday this 14, both are excellent students. morning. This is our first child 1984 Apparently, they got that from and she is our pride and joy, as Dean C. Graham their mother, and I’m trying to every day is better than the last. Head Class Agent keep the boys away from them, We bought a new apartment 5407 Duvall Drive but it’s very difficult to do. in New York and I saw John Bethesda, MD 20816 After working for many years Feitelberg a few months ago in [email protected] for multinational insurance NYC. We had a little friendly brokerage companies, I now wager between the Yankees own my own company and Tom Adams and his wife, and Red Sox, and he delivered Kendall, had their third boy, after only three years we are my winnings of clam chowder the fourth largest insurance Griffin James, on March 15, from Legal Seafoods. It sure 2004. Tom was back for broker in Puerto Rico. My new was good!” hobby is blue marlin fishing Reunion and he continues as admissions director at The and cruising around the U.S. Rich Protasewich and his wife, and British Virgin Islands in Peter Fish ’84 and Jodi Wheeler were Gunnery School. Kennie, announce the arrival married last May on the islands of my boat. I am hoping to go of their third son, Adam. Big Turks and Caicos. Mike Gibbons and his wife, back to AOF for my 25th brothers Luke and Spencer are reunion in 2006, but in the Kim, are enjoying life with enjoying him. They live in their one-year-old daughter, meantime if you are planning Weddington, North Carolina. to visit Puerto Rico, let me Rick wrote, “My co-author is Abigail, born March 28, 2003. know and we will take good Jeffrey Fox, father of Damian care of you.” Fox ’91, Dean Graham ’84 Ted Blaine emailed, “We are 1983 provided an endorsement on so excited to have a happy the back cover, and Jon Lester healthy little baby girl to add Richard C. Gregory ’63 took my photo for the to the Blaine clan! Sophia Head Class Agent book jacket.” Isabella Blaine was born April 30 Walnut Farms Drive 15, 2004, at 4:59 a.m. Mom Farmington, CT 06032 Dan Green and his brother, and baby are well, and we are [email protected] Matt ’86, were on campus this all adjusting to life in a family Rick Gregory just had his summer. Dan lives in Worcester, of six. Fortunately, our new first book, The Dollarization Massachusetts, with his wife, Pat, home has just enough room Discipline, published by John where he is a case worker and (for now).” The Blaines live in Wiley & Sons. It is available assistant director at a juvenile Old Greenwich, Connecticut, in all major bookstores (see detention center called Eliot and it was great to see Ted at Doug Schluter ’84 and his family www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/ Community Human Services the Reunion banquet. enjoyed lunch in the Refectory while in Westboro [see photo]. at Reunion 2004. The Schluters WileyTitle/productCd0471659 509.html for press release). The The Alumni and Development make their home in Marblehead, Office got in touch by phone Masssachusetts. book is full of Avon connections. with Matt Weir, who is sailing

37 Fall 2004 Class Notes

for two years with his wife, Ann, and children Randy (7), Jordan (81/2, and Charlotte (1). At the time of the call, October 4th, they were just passing the Statue of Liberty, heading toward Maryland from Maine. He has a captain and crew of six and said updates could be found soon on his website at mysirenuse.com. His boat’s name, Sirenuse, means mermaid John ’86 and Mara Ashe with their in a southern Italian dialect. children, along with John’s father and The Weirs plan to sail to the nephew, after the ’86 hockey team South Pacific and probably Fiji. was inducted into the Hall of Fame over Reunion weekend. In addition to accepting his own award, John also accepted an award for friend At Charlotte reception in June '04, Brett Taylor '87 and his wife, Lane, enjoy and former Avon teammate, Brian conversation with Adam Cline '93. Leetch ’86.

Mike McHugh wrote, “I have Illinois, with their three sons: been elected to represent the Scott, James, and Connor. His 10th Congressional District as plan was to celebrate his 10th an alternate delegate for John anniversary on Martha’s F. Kerry. While I have been Vineyard and then go to active in public service and Boston for the Democratic local politics for a number of National Convention. years, I have never considered seeking election until I met John Kerry. This summer, I will 1986 help represent my congressional district at the Democratic John G. Ashe Children of Inger and Bill Young ’85: Convention in Boston and Class Agent Johnson, Gunnar, Margo, and support John Kerry as the 50 Edgewood Avenue Emmett. Democratic nominee for Longmeadow, MA 01106-1308 Christopher Gambrill James arrived President.” Mike and his wife, [email protected] on August 16, 2004, to the delight Margy, live in Northbrook, of his parents, Ann and Jim (Warner) Congratulations to Campbell James '87, and his siblings, Mary 1985 Brown on his engagement to and Jimmy. The James family lives in Cotuit, Massachusetts, where Jim 20th Reunion Year Sarah Barker over the 4th of July weekend. teaches in the humanities depart- ment and is director of admissions at Cape Cod Academy in Osterville. ªeunion Matt Green continues to teach English at Pomfret School in he Class of 1985 will gather Pomfret, Connecticut, where Tfor their 20th Reunion the he is also assistant academic weekend of May 6-7. Alumni dean. He and his wife, Jen, had 1987 may view details as they are a baby girl on September 30th. William C. Begien updated on our website — He wrote that on the way to the hospital in Farmington, Class Agent www.avonoldfarms.com. Jason Taylor ’86 and his fiancée, they got a flat tire at midnight 245 L Street, #3 Ardie Pendergast, attended the Sam L. Rubenstein while Jen was in labor! But South Boston, MA 02127 Charlotte Reception June 16 at the [email protected] Co-Chairman of the Annual Fund home of Andrew Fisher ’91 and his baby Jessica waited to get to the hospital to be born, arriving in Head Class Agent wife, Janet. Jon Lester and his wife, Paula, good health at 8 lbs. 14 oz. She 3045 Darien Lane are living in Delray Beach, was welcomed home by sister Twinsburg, OH 44087 Florida, with their children, Eliza (4) and brother Luke (7). [email protected] Gabriella (3) and Jonathan (1). After managing restaurants,

Avonian 38 Class Notes

lounges, and banquet depart- ments for the Four Seasons Hotel in Austin, Texas, and an independent hotel in Palm Beach, Jon became catering sales manager for the Delray Beach Marriott and Convention Center. The birth of Gabriella precipitated the change to a 9- to-5 job. He wrote, “Things are good and are getting better all Mike Lech ’88 sent in this picture of the time. I met Carter Redd, Culley Carson ’90 sent in this note: his family after the birth of Chase general manager of the Ocean Michael Johannes Lech, born August “This is a picture of my son, Culley Gabriella Pagni (15 months), daughter 15, 2004. Club, down here as well, but Clyde Carson V, and me checking of Katie and Jason Pagni ’90. with the hectic schedule, we out the Avon book to get him ready have never gotten together. I for his entrance exam in a few years!” like to spend at least two weeks Kelly Cragg lives in Hampden, of the summer in New England Massachusetts, with his wife, and I hang out with Charlie Sheila, and three children. Deckers as often as possible.” Jon and Charlie enjoyed last Jon Doering lives in Cleveland, year’s Masters Golf Tournament Ohio with his two sons and and were hoping to catch a daughter. game at Fenway in August. Charlie has one daughter, Olivia, Bret Stoffer and his wife, LN, and his second child, Braden announce the arrival of their Charles, was born in July. first baby, Oscar Zahn Stoffer, born on May 14, 2004. In On campus this summer for a visit: August, Bret wrote, “Oscar Matt Green ’86 and brother Dan Green ’83 flanking Dean Peter Evans. weighed 7 lbs. 11.6 oz, and is 1988 now almost 19 lbs. at (almost) Shawn E. Atkinson 3.5 months old. He’s a big boy! Co-Head Class Agent Everything is going very well, 131 East 81st Street, Apt 8 and we’re thoroughly enjoying New York, NY 10028-1450 parenthood!” [email protected] Oscar Stoffer, son of LN and Bret Stoffer ’88. Peter Reed Co-Head Class Agent 1989 435 Crestwood Road Brian Riva Fairfield, CT 06824 Class Agent [email protected] 14 Chatfield Drive Lakeville, CT 06039 brianriva@sbcglobal

Jeff Davis has started a new venture, Bluewater Mortgage, a Brian Riva ’89 with his wife, Mary residential mortgage company. Kate, and their children, Holly (4) and Hayden (2) along with Brian’s He and his wife, Carey Ann, parents, Mickey and Tanya Riva. along with their sons, Zachary They attended Avon’s Reunion last (21/2) and Drew (2 months), spring. Brian was part of the ’89 live in Amesbury, hockey team which was inducted Massachusetts. into the first Avon Hall of Fame.

Celebrating daughter Allison’s christening with Cynthia and Brian Regan ’88 were: From left, John Watson ’87 and daughter Ella, Ryan Martin ’88, Brian Regan ’88, Dave Crowe, Brendan Lynch ’88, and Kevin Ryan ’88. Allison (not pictured) was born February 22, 2004.

39 Fall 2004 After seven years as a sound engineer in the Baltimore area, Kevin Pedini changed careers in 2002 and received his certi- fication in web development from Johns Hopkins University. He is now a partner in the promising consulting firm www.kaygroup.net. He lives outside of Baltimore with his wife, Chrissy, and their two Robert Zane Grey ’90 and his wife, children, Duncan and Abby. Tomomi, stopped by Avon’s campus in September with their daughter, Jason Pagni and his wife, Katie, Anri Elizabeth Grey (8 months). live in Hamden, Connecticut, with their 15-month-old daughter, Gabriella. Jason came to Reunion 2004. Quentin Davis Cutler, son of Kristin and Matt Cutler ’91.

After graduating from Avon, Scott Blake went to Marietta College in Ohio. He is currently living in Gothenburg, Sweden, with his wife, Pernilla, and sons, Dylan (3) and Jordan (6 months). Scott works at the Volvo trucks European division at the headquarters in Marissa Janelle Burstein, daughter of Gothenburg as a technical Elysa and Jeff Burstein’91. sales engineer. He is fluent in Swedish and his work focuses on non-standard vehicle Jonathan Judd left Virgin- inquiries from English cus- Atlantic Airways after four tomers. The factory where the years to become a full-time trucks are manufactured is just graduate student at Central a two-minute drive from the Connecticut State College. Volvo car factory. Scott has kept close contact with Graham Gallagher, who lives in San 1990 Francisco. Scott is playing club AOF coach Rob Dowling ’91 and his son Brian enjoy a moment after a soccer, mountain bikes with baseball game in April 2004. The Avon Old Farms varsity baseball team 15th Reunion Year friends on weekends, and tries finished 18-3 and captured the league title in 2004. to fit in sailing and tennis during the summer months. ªeunion He enjoys winter by skiing in he Class of 1990 will gather Sweden and Norway and for their 15th Reunion the emailed, “Soon I'll be taking T the children to teach them!” weekend of May 6-7. Alumni may view details as they are Travis Tucker, and his wife, updated on our website — Suzanne, announce the birth of www.avonoldfarms.com. their son, Harrison Tucker, born on June 5, 2004. Adam J. Crane Class Agent 27 Rockridge Road Framingham, MA 01702-5512 [email protected]

Andrew Fisher '91 catches up with Peter Duggan '91 at the Charlotte Reception last June.

Avonian 40 Class Notes

to find some time to stop by again one of these days. I believe the campus has changed a great deal since I last saw it.”

Matt Cutler and his wife, Kristin, announce the arrival of Quentin Davis Cutler, born in Chicago on March 9, 2004. Proud grandparents are current Avon Board member Les Cutler and Terry Cutler, former director of admissions. Quentin From left: Adam Cline ’93, Andrew weighed 8 lbs. 2 oz. and was Fisher ’91 and friend, Will Bishop, 20 inches long. during the Latta Triathlon in the Charlotte, North Carolina, area on Andrew Fisher and his wife, June 5, 2004. Janet, announce the birth of their daughter, Ella Crawford, Cliff Hansen ’91 and Headmaster Ken LaRocque at the Charlotte Reception. on August 26, 2004. She weighed 6 lbs. 12 oz. and was 18 inches long. are 12 screens and 2200 seats 1991 with the latest sound. My pri- Michael M. Mullin vate life has changed too. My Head Class Agent wife I-rin and I are expecting a 400 East 59th Street, Apt 5D baby in December. If the baby New York, NY 10022 is a boy, I want him to become [email protected] an Avonian!” [Editor’s Note: It’s a girl!] Philippe Duvelle emailed, “After traveling a good deal, Jeff Burstein and his wife, I did ‘settle down’ (sort of) Elysa, proudly announce the in Massachusetts. I live in birth of their daughter, Marissa Marlborough and have been Janelle, on April 18, 2004. She working at Raytheon for five weighed 7 lbs. 12.6 oz., and Keiichi (Rambo) Nishikubo ’91 with years now. I am part of the was 201/2 inches long. Jeff grad- engineering group, responsible his wife, I-rin, and their dog, Doggyokun, a 3-year-old Irish Setter. uated from Union College with Brady Andrew McDonald, son of for designing radar systems a B.A. in English and from proud parents Beth and T.J. (among other things) for the Western New England College McDonald ’92. military/government. I’m not School of Law. He is a partner getting rich, but after 10 years Keiichi (Rambo) Nishikubo at Burstein Law Offices. Elysa in the military I feel I get to has been in touch with Avon also graduated from Union Avon. The Riddlers performed continue serving my country admissions director, Brendon College with a B.S. in psy- under Richie’s direction at the while doing something I enjoy. Welker ’91 and Dean Peter chology and from Hofstra alumni leadership dinner in Of course, the money is much Evans. He wrote, “I am trying University with an M.S. in October. Frank Leavitt ’52 better than enlisted pay. to organize a new company for elementary education. She is said he’d never heard the boys Anyway that’s about it for me. theater business in Japan. Last a fourth grade teacher in sound better. My brother, Charles ’84, who week, I went to Las Vegas to Ludlow, Massachusetts. The spent one year at AOF as a join the Showfest 2004 con- Bursteins recently moved to Todd Carroll is continuing his freshman, has been living in vention, where I met many Longmeadow, Massachusetts. France for about eight years Hollywood celebrities including acting career and recently appeared in several episodes now. He and his wife, Michele, Nichole Kidman, Jim Carey, Richie Diamond and his wife, of a new TV series, Rescue Me, have two boys – Nicolas (9) Nick Cage, Jude Law, and more. Aynsley, announce the arrival staring Dennis Leary. The show and Remy (8). He worked as a I want to visit Avon this year of their baby girl, Olivia is set in a New York City fire software engineer for a while, if I can! I just organized a new Margarethe Diamond, on department station still rever- and now manages an IT theater company called XYZ August 12th. She weighed 6 berating from the shock of department. I thought some Cinemas and plan on opening lbs., 13 oz. All are happy and September 11. Rescue Me of you were around then and the first site in April 2005, healthy. Richie is enjoying his appears on the FX network. would be interested. I will have near Tokyo Disneyland. There new position on the faculty as the vocal music teacher at

41 Fall 2004 Class Notes

Upton Shipley visited campus each other, I’ll miss Reunion. in September from Santa Fe, Please say hello to everyone for New Mexico, where he now me, and I hope to be able to lives, painting and doing art attend the next Avon reception therapy. He attended Hartwick in D.C.” [Editor’s note: Tim and Rhode Island School of graduated with his MBA in Design, as well as Parsons in August. Tim attended the New York. He has also been reception at The Chevy Chase involved in the movie-making Club December 7th.] process, working on a few sets. He has worked with Ron Jason Murgio and Patricia Howard on The Missing, and Anne Purcell of Schenectedy, From the Class of ’94: Mike Adam Sandler on The Longest New York, were married in Rozinsky, Paul Matthews, Eric Grey. Yard, and has been a produc- October in Saratoga Springs. tion designer (blueprints for Currently the couple resides in sets), and involved with set Atlanta. Jason is a principal at Anthony D. Silvestro design and purchasing for sets. a boutique investment bank Head Class Agent Adam Cline ’93 and son Andrew in Before settling into the art and specializing in mergers and 1001/2 Main Street, Unit R Charlotte, North Carolina, with Ken movie world, Upton traveled acquisitions for the insurance Andover, MA 01810 LaRocque and Peter Evans. Adam and lived in Eastern Europe, industry. [email protected] works for Lowe’s Home Improvement Egypt, Israel, Palestine, and at the corporate office in North Jordan, leaving Europe and the Wilkesboro. Ben Harper is working in the Middle East in 1995. He still 1995 import/export clothing field. keeps in touch with friends Ben enjoys racing bikes com- from Avon. His artwork is in 10th Reunion Year petitively. galleries from Oregon to 1992 Florida and he still finds time eunion Mike Halle joined the National to play ice hockey in Santa Fe. ª Guard after 9/11. After gradu- Damien J. Egan He plans to return to he Class of 1995 will gather ating from Elmira, Mike served Head Class Agent Philadelphia, eventually, to be for their 10th Reunion the in the 143rd unit in Baghdad [email protected] closer to family and friends. T as an MP and currently works weekend of May 6-7. Alumni full-time for the Guard in T.J. McDonald and his wife, may view details as they are homeland security. On Beth, announce the arrival of updated on our website — September 24, 2004, Mike Brady Andrew on April 14, 1994 www.avonoldfarms.com. married Amanda Narog in 2004. T.J. works for a third Graham C. Fuller Wethersfield, Connecticut. party administrator owned by Class Agent fellow Avonian Brian Rasnick. 100 Llanalew Road, Apt 8 Brian and his wife, Melanie, Haverford, PA 19041-1564 who also became parents to a [email protected] son, William James Rasnick, born November 12, 2003. Tim Waterman wants Avonians to get in touch if they are com- ing to the D.C. area (twater- 1993 [email protected]). He wrote, “I have been living Travis Merritt in D.C. now for two years. I Class Agent received a promotion to the 23 Church Street corporate office of General Flemington, NJ 08822 Dynamics; that’s the real [email protected] reason for my moving to D.C. Although I love all that D.C. Ben Mallory announced his has to offer, I miss Connecticut engagement to Jodi Kennedy. and the water. I have been A June 2005 wedding is going to school at night and planned in the Chapel at am almost done (in August) Avon. He is employed as an art with my M.B.A. from George director for AOL and resides in Terry Cutler, recently retired admissions director, was back to Avon for a visit Washington University. Leesburg, Virginia. with Kyle Youngquist ’97, Tim Stay ’97, and Frank Leavitt ’52. Because I am in the wedding of two friends I introduced to

Avonian 42 Class Notes

Members of the Class of ’99 — Top Row: Chris Gateman, Joe Montineri, David Gryboski, Mark Floyd, Bill Pollak, KC Tenukas ’00, Bottom Row: Jon Carroll, Greg O’Leary, Brooks Garber, D.J. Knecht, Erin Borger, Coulsen Barbiche.

John Hayes resides in Chicago where he is a third-year student 1996 at John Marshall Law School. Mark A. Caruso Last spring, Mike Fish emailed, Co-Head Class Agent “I am still with Genatt 78 Hollow Tree Ridge Road Associates, which is a retail Darien, CT 06820 insurance brokerage out of Long [email protected] Island. I am the Genatt Envi- ronmental representative, and John T. Jones specialize in environmental Co-Head Class Agent insurance. I also get involved in 88 W. Marshall Road Brian Lemek ’98 has been in Durban, South Africa, since last December all types of insurance, though, Lansdowne, PA 19050 where he works as a program co-coordinator for Playing for Peace (PfP). [email protected] Playing for Peace is a non-profit organization that uses the game of and our company is one of the basketball to bridge divides and develop leaders in regions of the world largest writers of real estate Peter Obre graduated from historically separated by strife. PfP uses a life skills program to train insurance. I moved within New the University of Southern young South African adults to be peer mentors/role models while edu- cating thousands of children about HIV/AIDS and other critical health York about eight months ago California in 2000 with a major and social issues. Basketball is the vehicle PfP uses to engage the children. from an apartment I shared in English (thanks to the inspi- with Todd Norton for four Brian writes, “What we are really doing is bridging divides, developing ration of AOF English teacher leaders, and sustaining health in youths. I would love to talk more about years. Todd moved to Miami in Tim Beneski). He wrote in PfP and what we are doing. If you are interested, please contact me at February and is enjoying it. I February 2004, “Since college I [email protected]. I will be returning home in December.” am regularly in touch with Tim have been working for Home Waterman ’94, who has been in Depot Corporation in outside Washington, D.C., for a few sales and sales training. P.J. Chesson, after joining Mo years now finishing his M.B.A. However, I have just been Nunn Racing’s new satellite at George Washington. He was 1997 hired by a commercial real team, beat series champion- promoted a couple of years ago estate firm, CB Richard Ellis, Timothy B. Stay elect Thiago Medeiros at Pikes to the home office of Electric the largest of its kind in the Co-Head Class Agent Peak. P.J. scored three consecu- Boat and now works in their world and will start the job on 431 Clayton Manor Drive South tive Menards Infinity Pro Series General Dynamics office out March 15. Needless to say, I’m Apt. 5 victories in August, including there. He seems to be doing overwhelmed!” Liverpool, NY 13088 one win at Kentucky Super- exceptionally well and has been [email protected] speedway. According to IndyCar, studying for his M.B.A. at night. younger brother, James ’99, I have been getting the enews Kyle R. Youngquist made his debut in another Mo and it is nice to catch up on Co-Head Class Agent Nunn Racing car at Chicago- Avon events when I receive it. 60 West 23rd Street, Apt. 950 land. [Editor’s Note: This fall I am glad to see that all is well New York, NY 10010 in California, James and P.J. and please let everyone know [email protected] Chesson made Indy racing that I say hello.”

43 Fall 2004 Class Notes

league history: Brothers finish- Jay Coscia visited Connecticut ing 1 and 2. James finished first from Fukushima, Japan, after on only his second start, having working at AEON, a Japanese followed older brother P.J. into company/English conversation the Indy League.] school. He is enjoying the cultural adventure and plans 1998 to be there one more year. J.C. Landry emailed Peter Geoffrey R. Barlow Evans, “I am currently working Co-Head Class Agent for a medical publishing com- 500 Old Farms Road pany in New Jersey. We pub- Avon, CT 06001 lish a physician publication [email protected] called MD Net Guide, and I sell advertising and other promo- J. Andrew Corrigan tional tools to pharmaceutical Co-Head Class Agent The 1999 Class Dinner during Reunion Weekend was held at Dr. Bob Gryboski’s companies and their advertis- Farmington home. Some of those gathered were, first row: K.C. Tenukas ’00, 2410 Shakespeare Street, Apt. 8 ing agencies. I’ve been here for Houston, TX 77030 D.J. Knecht; second row: Joe Montineri, Dr. Bob Gryboski ’57, Chris Grosch, Chris Gateman, Bill Pollak, John Carroll, David Gryboski, Brad Stewart, Will about seven months now and [email protected] Blanchard, Jayme Dorr; third row: Coulson Barbiche, Mr. Coons ’71, James things have gone really well. David Ayers is currently work- Aborn, Adam Stifel, Mrs. Leis, Mrs. Custer; fourth row: Mr. Schleer, Steve Besides that I have not really Zappone, Marc Phaneuf, Rob Dowling ’91, Casey McCanta, Matt Michaleski, been up to much, I’ve been to ing on his M.F.A. for motion Brendan Mooney, Glenn Berglund, Pat Tabb, J.R. Rakolta, and Mr. Custer. pictures producing at the Florida to visit my parents a University of Miami, Florida. few times, and I am still adjust- David is engaged to Erica Lustig. Jonathan M. Carroll ing to the working world, and Co-Head Class Agent Jersey. My parents are doing Greg Kraczkowsky lives in 29 Champlain Drive well; they just returned from D.C. and works as a consultant Old Lyme, CT 06371 Florida, and my dad was upset with Brailsford & Dunlavey, a [email protected] that he missed both hockey group specializing in sports, and baseball seasons at Avon.” Barry Joyce married Taylor recreation and university facility Leigh Reilly of Cotuit, planning. Greg wrote, “I am Rafael Bárcenas wrote Dean Massachusetts, at the home working on projects in Las Peter Evans that he was unable of the bride’s mother. After a Vegas, Pittsburgh, Kentucky, to make his 5th year Reunion honeymoon on St. Bart’s, the and Maine. There’s lots of because he had started a new couple resides in Cotuit. After travel and tons of work, but I business venture. Rafael saw completing two years at the can’t complain. I have been P.J. Chesson ’97 win the I.R.L., University of Delaware, Barry following the development at an Infinity Pro series race at attends Massachusetts Maritime AOF, and I believe that Mr. Pikes Peak, on television. He Academy in Buzzard’s Bay where LaRocque’s vision for the campus Todd Marr ’99, pictured in the fore- wrote, “I would like to con- he is a senior, on the President’s master plan is one that has the ground, played goalie his senior year gratulate Jamie ’99 and P.J. list, and lacrosse captain. support of every alum. The at Cornell. personally. I was looking at the plans for the field house and Internet today and noticed student center look terrific.” that Jamie signed with Mo Nunn Racing and will be teammates with his brother. That is just awesome.” Rafael 1999 and his brother, Mario, are rac- David R. Gryboski ing touring cars for Hyundai in Co-Head Class Agent Central America. They have 29 South Ridge Road been doing pretty well and are Farmington, CT 06032-3020 thinking of going outside of [email protected] Panama to test drive in a more competitive Formula series.

Retired Admissions Director, Terry Cutler and husband Les, back to Avon for a visit with Mark Floyd ’99 and Erin Borger ’99.

Avonian 44 Class Notes

Todd Marr graduated cum Dan Seiden began teaching laude from Cornell in May English at Avon this fall after 2004 with a degree in business graduating with a B.A. from and applied economics. During Emory University. Dan is his time at Cornell, playing coaching “The Mighty Mighty Division I hockey, Todd worked Fourths” team and is faculty out five hours a day. His parents advisor to the spirit club. When sent a letter to Avon this fall asked how he enjoys being on thanking Avon faculty, staff the faculty, Dan commented, and administration for helping “It is amazing being on the Todd develop important skills other side of things. The Avon like time management, a strong faculty is a dedicated group of work ethic and perseverance. individuals who really care They also mentioned Todd was about these young men. The elected to the Quill and Dagger time and effort that everyone Honor Society at Cornell which puts forth on a daily basis recognizes academic achieve- Ken and Heidi LaRocque and Al and Willa Thiess, parents of Brandon ’04, speaks volumes about their ment, leadership and service. meet Josh Groban after one of his concerts. character.”

2000 Michael J. O’Neill 2001 5th Reunion Year Co-Head Class Agent Christopher D. Coleman 34 Anderson Street, Apt. 4 Co-Head Class Agent Boston, MA 02114 35 Adelaide Avenue ªeunion [email protected] Barrington, RI 02806 [email protected] he Class of 2000 will gather Daniel J. Seiden Tfor their 5th Reunion the Co-Head Class Agent Nicholas H. LaRocque weekend of May 6-7 at Bill and 500 Old Farms Road Co-Head Class Agent Barbara Seiden’s home (PP Dan Avon, CT 06001 43 Oakwood Road [email protected] Seiden ’00). Alumni may view Brewster, MA 02631-1867 [email protected] details as they are updated Tom Villeco graduated from on our website — Hamilton last spring and Alex Dean bought his first car www.avonoldfarms.com. wrote, “Four years at Avon and attended jump school at went by quickly, but four years Fort Benning during the of college felt like a blur. So summer. His brother Tom ’01, now it’s on to the next stage, who is finishing up at the U.S. and for me, that’s law school. Naval Academy, spent his I have been accepted into summer doing plebe detail and Western New England Law going on an aviation cruise. School, but I am still waiting to hear from many other Craig Chester is a senior at schools. In the end, I hope to Patrick Dowling ’00 graduated from the University of Wisconsin- be attending either Seton Hall, Dartmouth in 2004 and served as Madison, where he is president Pace, or Quinnipiac. I am captain of the baseball team as a of his TKE fraternity. He works Grif Leahy ’04 (left) is attending interested in possibly entering senior. He is currently living in as a campus tour guide for Columbia University. He is pictured the field of criminal law, but Boston and is looking forward to his prospective students and is a 5th Reunion this May. at Avon’s graduation with his mother, that may all change if I find a member of Men Making a Carmen, and brother Brandt ’00 Difference, a sexual assault pre- (Harvard ’04). Brandt is employed different area of law that piques by Delaware Financial in Pennsylvania. my interest. From reading the vention group. Fellow Avonian He will be working for Jude Driscoll, school website, I can tell this browsed through some of the and University of Wisconsin a former Avon faculty member and has been an exciting year for pictures of the playoff games, student Dustin Lowery lives in brother of Dean Kevin Driscoll ’72. the School with Coach Gardner and I’m glad to see how much his Madison neighborhood. winning his 500th game, and student support there was. It his team winning the New brought back memories of my Last spring, Jon Berry emailed England Championship with a senior year when the hockey Mr. Evans, “ I will be graduating near perfect overall record. I team won the championship.” from Whittier College in the fall of ’04, an entire semester

45 Fall 2004 Class Notes

earlier than planned (very Mike Boggs, a history major excited about that). I will be at the University of Oregon, earning my B.A. in economics, plans to study abroad in Italy which has been very challeng- or Poland. Mike spends time ing. I came to Whittier to play teaching skating and hockey to lacrosse, but my freshman year handicapped children at the I had an ankle injury that kept local rink. me from playing the entire sea- son. I wanted to get back into lacrosse but I was persuaded to 2003 play football by many of my friends. In the summer of 2003 Jamie Tang I tore my MCL playing hockey. Class Agent Injuries have been rough in 111 East 80th Street, Apt.3B college but I still continue to New York, NY 10021 play hockey at least four days a [email protected] week. I am no longer playing The Custer family from left to right: Michelle, Charlie, Art, and Tim (Ben, 12, goalie; instead I have pursued a Warith Deen Madyun emailed is not pictured). Charlie Custer ’04 won the following commencement awards: Headmaster LaRocque, “Penn career as a defenseman. During Excellence in 12th grade english, government, civil war in film and fiction, and the summer I’ll be attending French and was given the Order of Old Farms. Charlie is now a student at Brown. is treating me well, and the Long Beach Ice Dogs train- His father, Dean of Faculty Art Custer, was honored with the Swan Award, Philadelphia is a great city. It’s ing camp. I currently work at which is given by the board of the WALKS Foundation. Michelle teaches French an amazing opportunity learn- hockeygiant.com, the largest at Avon and brother Tim is currently a senior. Charlie and Tim’s great-grand- ing at an Ivy League university; father taught at Avon; a grandfather and a great uncle were also Avon alumni. all the professors are authorities retailer of hockey equipment in (See also page 8.) North America. I have earned in the particular fields of study, the position as the manager of and each student is unique and the goalie department. I hope ambitious. Sometimes when I to stay in the hockey industry think about Avon, it seems like as long as I can, whether it’s a dream that never really hap- playing or working. If any of pened, only existing in memory, our current students or alumni photos, and my imagination. If need any hockey equipment, Avon has helped me with one feel free to give them my work thing it would have to be time email which is jberry@hockey- management. In college the giant.com, or my work number days are filled with seminars, which is (714) 940-1705. I’ll lectures, work-study, sympo- give a special discount to any- siums, and board meetings. So one at Avon Old Farms. This I have to plan each day, down season I have attended all of to the hour. the San Jose Sharks (my favorite team) vs. the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim games to 2004 see former Avonian Niko Morgan Barrieau ’04, surrounded by family and friends at graduation. From Luke Archambault Dimitrakos ’98. He has been a left: Gib Barrieau ’02 with his girlfriend, Cheyney Lanergan, Morgan’s girlfriend, real inspiration for me not only Danielle Storer, sister Jackie Barrieau, parents, Joan and Gerard Barrieau. 59 High Street playing for my favorite team South Hadley, MA 01275 but also attending my favorite [email protected] high school. I hope to come back and see all the changes to our school in the near future.” 2002 The Avonian appreciates receiving alumni photographs and news. All news, including obituaries, may be edited for space. Sam Taber is an economics William P. Beatson major at University of Vermont Class Agent Please send your pictures and news to Liz Abramson at with a minor in English. He Mistfield Farm [email protected], or by mail, to Liz’s attention, has been playing rugby as a PO Box 148 Alumni & Development Office, Avon Old Farms School. club sport and will help run the Butler, MD 21023 club hockey team as co-captain [email protected] Note: We love electronic images, but please make sure they this year. are of publishable-quality resolution.

Avonian 46 Class Notes

∞lumni Receptions

At the Charlotte Reception, back row, from left, Tom Purnell ’68, From the alumni reception at The Fours in Boston on October 26 Headmaster Ken LaRocque, Dean Peter Evans, Andrew Patterson (from left), Kyle Sheffield ’95, Pat Dowling ’00, Brian O’Neill ’96, ’89, Evan Bobbitt ’97, Brett Taylor ’87, Andrew Fisher ’91, Adam Peter Conlin ’94, former faculty Ian McGinn, Tony Silvestro ’95, Cline ’93, and Cliff Hansen ’91. Front row, Peter Duggan ’91, Jason Mike O’Neill ’00, and Mike Cuccia ’00. Taylor ’86, and Nick LaRocque ’01.

Enjoying the evening at The Chevy Chase Club were Will Beatson ’02, Board member Bill Beatson ’59, Board member Dean Graham ’84, Deb Graham and Dean Peter Evans. From the alumni reception at the Harvard Club in New York City on October 19, from left, Todd Marr ’99, Kyle Youngquist ’97, Paul Rhodes ’98, Ashton Crosby ’97, Drew Stroud ’98 and Mike Fish ’95.

2005 Alumni Hockey Game

Saturday, February 12, 2005 1:00 p.m.

Varsity Hockey plays Deerfield at 2:30 Register with Henry Coons @ [email protected] or 860-404-422

Hosting the Avon reception at The Chevy Chase Club were Peter Connolly ’83, his wife, Julia, and Honorary Director Captain Victor Delano.

47 Fall 2004 Faculty Notes

Graduates, mostly of the classes of ’59 and ’64, drifted past us. Suddenly Ken “The private talks of youthful LaRocque was there talking with escapades I heard at my table would renowned alumnus Pete Seeger ’36. As have curled Dean Kinkade’s already I sat there, warmed by the incomparable wavy hair into tight little knots. Told ambiance of that room Mrs. Riddle with tongues loosened by the years, designed, and by the men’s poignant those stories were mighty amusing.” stories, I felt profoundly thankful for the beginning Avon gave my career of 37 years in private schools. ‘I had slipped “Of course, I wasn’t surprised to the surly bonds of earth.’ And, inciden- discover that the Avon faculty I knew tally, I happened then to reflect upon Richard Loveland had been totally replaced. My old pal, the seven schools in which I had worked. Seth Mendell ’52, is probably the only I realized that of all of them, Avon survivor today with a title — President Former faculty member Richard Loveland seems to have kept the tightest grip of the Alumni Association. There is a and his wife, Margot, enjoyed dinner at the upon timeless virtues and valued ideals. legend for you. I felt a sad emptiness as Headmaster’s over Reunion Weekend and Considering the difficult passing times, I roamed familiar campus places before sent in the following remembrance. Richard we who love Avon should thank Don, the parade on Saturday, for not only Loveland taught history at Avon Old Farms George, and Ken for preserving those were my colleagues all absent from School from 1953 to 1960, and was head of values Mrs. Riddle planted there. Avon’s stage; a great many have died. the history department from 1957 to 1960. “The private talks of youthful In a wink though, I realized there was escapades I heard at my table would nothing sad there at all. Like every good “It all began when I wrote to have curled Dean Kinkade’s already wavy school, Avon had achieved smooth Rolf Olson ’59 to congratulate him on hair into tight little knots. Told with transition of years and people. All the becoming chairman of the Board of tongues loosened by the years, those venerable positions, and many new Avon Old Farms School. I was proud of stories were mighty amusing. Avon boys unexpected slots, are occupied now by my lanky, red-headed student of long might have been more daring 50 years educators probably far better than we ago. Rolf’s response, characteristically ago. Maybe the students of this decade were in the School’s first raw decade thoughtful, was to invite Margot and me are daring too. Those who greeted me after reopening in 1948. How could all to his Class’s 45th Reunion in May. I was seemed most confident, also pleasant, those splendid new buildings have been ‘as happy as a clam at high tide,’ as Patty cheerful, and courteous. I used to think created overnight? How can an Avon Tripp used to say, to return to the school 50 years was a long time, but now I’m boy’s life suddenly leap from age 18 to 63? where I began to teach and to see once confused. My clear remembrances, face How can such wonder be accomplished more my students of the 1950s. But there after face, of the gray-suited boys I at Avon in my brief absence, even with- was a problem. When those boys last saw taught in the 1950s in those stone class- out my help? When Avonians return to Margot and me we were in our late 20s. rooms and coached down on the field, their school after long absences, they Now our mid 70s! What the heck, we are still fresh; must have been only a must be impressed by the perfectly said, those guys are in their 60s now. moment ago. The same reuniting of blended architectural additions greeting Let’s go. So, on the mellow spring these men in 2004 looked not greatly them and inspired by the human talent evening of the headmaster’s dinner for different; I felt comfortable with them they observe. Moreover, like me, they certain alumni classes, there beside the and loved their company now as before. must be comforted to know that dear old leafy Village Green, we lingered before Sure, we all looked older, but after first friendships powerfully endure at Avon entering the house we still thought of as greetings we didn’t seem to notice. Old Farms School.” Don and Nan Pierpont’s home.

Avonian 48 In Memoriam

Nancy Pierpont Lehr H’67, retired from the U.S. Army was a lovely man. We discovered daughter of Nan and Donald Reserve in 1960 as a major. each of us had gone into the Pierpont, died in her sleep on Having lived in both Wilton Merchant Marine during World June 12, 2004. As the only child and Westminster, Massachusetts, War II, and Peter spent consid- of the Headmaster, Nancy was he served in a number of lead- erable time sailing in convoys a fixture on campus for many ership positions throughout his on the North Atlantic. Peter years. She had fond memories lifetime in numerous volunteer was modest about his lifetime and stories to tell about all of and civic organizations. He was interests in writing and art, her “big brothers”. Many an avid gardener and forester, but he was truly productive.” became life-long friends. Nancy and owned Maple Height Farm His son, Peter Burchard and her mother made several in Westminster. He is survived Jr., sent the following obituary: trips to Avon in recent years to by his wife of 61 years, Kathryn Peter was the author of 26 enjoy reunion weekend and be Thompson Schenck, of The books, nonfiction and fiction, part of the rededication cere- Gables, Farmington, Conn- adult and juvenile, published Herb “Coach” Cochrane died mony of the school chapel in ecticut; his three sons, Philip in his sleep August 12, 2004, by Random House, Atheneum, the spring of 2000. On gradu- Schenck Jr., (town manager of just six days short of his 97th Putnam, Little Brown, Crown, ation day in 1999, Nancy Avon), Stephen Schenck of birthday. His son, Warren and St. Martin’s, among others received a school diploma as Kentucky, and Frank Schenck Cochrane ’55, wrote, “Herb — and the illustrator of more an honorary member of the of Ohio; a sister, Jeanne still talked of ‘the best job I than 100 books. His biography, Class of 1967. Schenck Erskine of Nevada; ever had’ coaching ‘my boys’ One Gallant Rush: Robert three grandchildren; and two at Avon. One of his boys, Al Gould Shaw and His Brave great-grandchildren. (Excerpts Black Regiment (1965), became Philip Knight Schenck ’30, Pettingill ’59, visited him only from the Hartford Courant, the main source of historical one of the last surviving mem- a month before where Herb September 30, 2004) material for Glory, the Academy bers of the Class of 1930, died joked, ‘Football practice at two Award-winning film featuring in Avon on September 29, 2004 o’clock, but today we won’t Denzel Washington, Morgan at the age of 94. He attended Charles Cavendish Bennett ’33 have to run up the hill!’ One Freeman, and Matthew the McCallister School, died in June 2003. At Avon, of his last statements was about Broderick, who portrayed Concord, Massachusetts, he received the Order of Old how he needed to get stronger Colonel Shaw, commander of Milton Academy, Milton, Farms and then graduated from so he could walk again and the first black regiment in the Massachusetts; Avon Old Yale in 1937. He also attended begin coaching again this fall.” Civil War. Mr. Burchard’s first Farms School, Avon; and the Yale graduate school and in published illustrations appeared Connecticut Agricultural 1938 taught at the Foot School John K. Gile ’39 died on March in Yank, a magazine published College (University of in New Haven. He later did 27, 2004, after a brief battle with by the Army, in which he Connecticut). According to advertising work in New York, cancer. John was class agent served as a signal operator school records, Mr. Schenck was a radio writer, a staff for many years, and an Avon during World War II on troop started at Avon in 1927, stayed radio-television-film writer, employee during the 1960s. He ships between the United a couple of years, but did not and worked for the National would have celebrated his 84th States and France, Egypt and graduate; he then worked on Foundation for Infantile birthday on April 14. John had the North Atlantic. His short Mrs. Riddle’s farm. He received Paralysis in New York City. By retired to Asheville, North novel Jed (1960), the story his 1930 Avon diploma in 1990, 1965 he was a science editor. In Carolina, in 1986. of a friendship between a 16- presented by his grandson 1974 he was director of public year-old Yankee soldier and a Michael Schenck ’90 at the education for the Arthritis Southern boy that the Times request of former Headmaster Foundation. He also spent Peter Burchard ’40 died at called “an effective little George M. Trautman and time in Atlanta, Georgia, and home at the age of 83 in sketch, evocative and touch- former Board of Directors LaPointe, Wisconsin, before Williamstown, Massachusetts. ing,” went into 14 printings in Chairman F. Reed Estabrook, moving to California. Before Long-time friend Dick Price the States and was published Jr.’36. He served in the Army his death, he had been living ’40 wrote, “I am sad to have in several languages, notably during World War II in Europe in a retirement community in to report that Peter Burchard Arabic. The American Library and was in the Reserves for the Davis, California. passed away on July 3rd of this Association and the Library Korean War, as an officer with year. Peter and I had arranged Journal bestowed special recog- Logistical Command in Japan. to have a sail together in nition on his books, and he After 20 years of service, he Marlblehead this summer. He received a Christopher Award

49 Fall 2004 for the humanitarian value of from Avon Old Farms School his illustrations for Clyde he graduated from the University Robert Bulla’s Pocahontas and of Vermont with a bachelor of the Strangers. In 1966, Mr. science in economics. He was Burchard was awarded a the president of Blumberg Guggenheim Fellowship for the Associates, Inc., Blumberg Shaw biography. From that time Worldwide Associates, Inc., on, he wrote much on black and Blumberg Countrywide. history, focused mainly around He was a charter life under- the Civil War, slavery, and the writer and certified insurance antislavery movement. Other consultant. Mr. Blumberg subjects of his books are sail- served as a director of the ing, including ocean racing, Hartford Jewish Federation; the history of flight, World was a life director of the Hebrew War II, and New York City Home & Hospital, a corporator From the 1983 Yearbook. during the Boss Tweed era. Mr. of St. Francis Hospital & Burchard’s most recent book Medical Center; a trustee of Major Patrick Teichgraeber ’83, a career Marine, died was Frederick Douglass: For the the Mount Sinai/St. Francis Sunday, September 12, 2004, at the age of 40, after a Great Family of Man (Simon Foundation; and a member of valiant struggle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (“ALS”), and Schuster, 2003), a Parents’ the board of the National Choice honor book. He was a Conference of Christians and also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Pat graduated from member of the international Jews. He was a former trustee Denison University in 1988 and served in the Marine PEN Club and, up to the time and executive committee Corps, ultimately rising to Major. Pat served his country of his death, served on the member of the Hebrew Home with distinction. “Patrick will be remembered as a dutiful panel of advisers for the George & Hospital; former chairman son of Richard and Jacqueline; a respected brother to John, Polk Awards. His final work, a of Hillel at the University of Rick, and Michael; a proud father of Matthew and Justin; fictionalized autobiographical Hartford; and a former director story of a young serviceman’s of the Bradley Air Museum. and a loving husband to Alison. Patrick will be most first love affair in New York He was a member of the profes- remembered as a friend, Marine, son, brother, father, City, is entitled Paper Shoes. sional ski instructors association husband, friend, and hero.” (The Houston Chronicle) Just and taught at Ski Sundown; a last January, Pat’s wife Alison and his old friends from Avon life member of Beth El Temple; W. Dexter Bryant ’44 died and Denison, threw a surprise birthday party for Pat, which a life member of the Million February 22, 2004. He was a Dollar Round Table; and a he enjoyed immensely. (See the Avonian, Spring 2004.) veteran of the U.S. Navy, member of United Tae Kwon Kevin Driscoll ’72, Avon’s dean of students and serving in World War II. After Do. He leaves his wife, Ellen varsity football coach, began the 2004 football season by more than 40 years, he retired (Meshken) Blumberg; a son, as chairman of Bead Industries, dedicating the season to Pat, who wore No. 66 on the Matthew Blumberg; and a a family-owned company that varsity football team as a student-athlete. At Avon’s first daughter, Carolyn Blumberg, manufactures beaded chain and home game on a beautiful September day, everyone both of New York City; a electronics. He was predeceased brother, Harold Blumberg of paused for a moment of silence in Pat’s memory. All 100 by his wife, Jeanne Bryant, and Avon; and a sister, Ruth Avon football players have No. 66 on their helmets in his survived by his two sons, three Fleegler of Sarasota, Florida. honor. Coach Driscoll told all players on the Varsity, JV, daughters, three step-daughters, and 14 grandchildren. and Thirds teams about Pat and what a determined foot- Tom Smith ’74, age 47, died ball and lacrosse athlete he was during his years at Avon. after suffering a debilitating A college scholarship fund (independent of Avon Arthur Blumberg ’55 of Forest stroke. His mother flew to Hills Drive, West Hartford, Old Farms) has been set up for Pat and Alison’s two sons, Washington and took him off died February 17, 2004, at Matthew (age 9) and Justin (age 6). Anyone wishing to life support and he quietly Hartford Hospital. Born in passed away in February. He make a contribution should email Dan Lavoie at Hartford, he was the son of the was an organ donor and his [email protected] for the details. late Robert and Jean (Selden) donations have gone on to Blumberg. After graduating save many other lives.

Avonian 50 By Dane Lemeris ’05

Big Doors Swing On Little Hinges

The following was delivered as a Chapel then on, we would chat every time Talk on October 14, 2004 by Dane she came in. Her attitude toward life Lemeris ’05, who serves as secretary was excellent. The way she described on the student council. everything, it seemed as if nothing in ig doors swing on little hinges. her life had ever gone wrong. BMost of the time, we don’t see One day I asked her if she had the hinges on a door. We don’t even any children. After pausing for a pay attention to them. However, moment, she said, “Well, Dane, I did.” without them, the door would not She went on to explain that her son function. Our attitudes are the little died in a car accident when he was hinges on which the doors of our 18. She described her son as a great lives swing. kid, who did well in school, was a I want to tell you a story about great soccer player, and loved life. a woman I met this summer who I was shocked. This woman — taught me a lot about the power of a one of the happiest women I had positive attitude. I worked at a bank, ever met — had had to deal with and I saw this woman, Janet, twice a such tragedy, losing her only child at week. She was retired, in her mid-60s, such a young age. I asked her how and came every week to do her bank- she got through those tough times, ing. One day when we weren’t busy, because she looked so happy now. Janet and I struck up a conversation. “Dane,” she said, “at that She asked me where I went to school, moment in time, I had a choice to and where I lived, and I asked her make. I had my life in front of me. I what she used to do, where she lived; could decide to be happy, or I could stuff like that. She was one of the decide to lead a miserable, grieving nicest ladies I had ever met. From life. I decided to be happy. It isn’t

51 Fall 2004 easy and not a day goes by that I gesture, but multiplied thousands of Another regular at the bank don’t miss my son or wish that he times, think of the cumulative effect was a man named James Andrew was with me. But I have a good life. that that must have on the lives of Morger, who was severely retarded. I am a happy woman.” other people! James came in every week to cash a Looking into her eyes, listening Then, as the story goes, some- check. This, the most simple of all to her talk, I could see she wasn’t one who traveled the route often and tasks that a banker has to do, for me, superficial or hiding her true emo- knew of this cheerful toll-taker got in was the most difficult. You see, James tions. She was not someone who a cab one day and started talking with had partial use of his left hand, and papered over the negative aspects of the cab driver. He asked the driver if that was all. He could only control her life with some sort of artificial he knew of this “toll taker.” The cab the power wheel chair. He even had façade. She knew that, even though driver said, “Oh yeah, I know that trouble talking, because he had to she had dark days behind her, her guy! I wait in his line every time I go consciously think to breathe. Every attitude would be the determining through!” And it turned out that a time he would come in, I would walk factor for the rest of her life. She lot of other fellow travelers waited in around the counter and hold a clip- could choose to either sink into grief his line as well. Sometimes, his line board and a pen for him to have him and resentment over her son’s death, would be twice as long as the others, sign the check. Because of his disabil- or rise above it and create an excep- all because people enjoyed his posi- ities, he had a lot of trouble writing tional life, and that is what she did. tive attitude. even his initials. I would stand there Granted, this may be an extreme with him for at least five minutes example, but we all have that power We cannot control the curve while he signed — J A M. It was balls that life throws at us. Yet as well, regardless of our circumstances. difficult, even painful, to watch this we can control how we relate Attitude is a mind set. A good to them. It's a simple choice. A man struggle with something so attitude is positive, loving, affirmative, good attitude makes a good life. simple. Yet, despite the hardships he and open. It doesn’t look to life’s faces every single day of his life — challenges, it looks beyond them. We The right attitude is everything. writing, talking, breathing; he cannot control the curve balls that It puzzles me sometimes to see people remains positive. He always says life throws at us. Yet we can control with material wealth, great athletes, hello and asks how you are with a how we relate to them. It’s a simple great students, all people with smile on his face. He laughed all the choice. A good attitude makes a friends, freedoms and good means time and, when he did, all of us good life. indulge themselves with bad attitudes. laughed with him … genuine laughs. Another example: recently, I They have problems, as does every A positive attitude can bring out read an article about a man who other human being, but they can’t the best in all of us. And the best part worked in a tollbooth. He greeted seem to get beyond their negative of the whole thing is, your positive every person who came through with outlook on life. attitude will rub off on someone else, an enthusiastic, “Hello! How are On the opposite end of the and their’s on someone else and so on you!? What a great day!” Consider spectrum, it amazes me to see people down the line. It is a never-ending how many cars pass through a toll like Janet, who might have reason to cycle. And it all starts with you. A booth in one day. Thousands! And be negative or bitter, yet they have positive attitude is one of the few he says this to each and every car chosen to have a positive attitude. things of which you are in total con- that passes through. It is such a small trol. So oil up your hinges and open the door with a positive attitude.

Avonian 52 Make a Difference: Give to the Annual Fund

The Annual Fund is an essential part of Avon Old Farms’ operating budget. Avon depends on your thoughtful annual fund contribution to help bridge the 20 percent gap between tuition and the actual yearly cost of an Avon Old Farms education. The Annual Fund directly upholds the mission of Avon Old Farms School. It enhances teaching, learning, student activities, arts, athletics, financial aid, faculty needs, and our magnificent and historic campus. The Annual Fund makes a significant difference in the life of Avon Old Farms School. The annual fund is necessary for your school to function. If you have not made your annual fund gift this year, please do so now.

You can make an annual fund contribution in many ways. To make a gift, please call the Alumni & Development Office, 800-336-8195, Director of Development Peter Evans at 860-404-4276, or visit the alumni page of our website www.avonoldfarms.com. Your generosity makes a Difference. Thank You! pub 11.2004.7M Save the Date! Come Celebrate and Join the Parade! For details, visit www.avonoldfarms.com or call Liz 800-336-8195

Avon Old Farms School Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage 500 Old Farms Road PAID Avon, CT 06001 Avon, CT 06001 www.avonoldfarms.com Permit No. 12