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Annelise Osborne is chief business officer at Kadena, a blockchain technology company, where she is focused on upgrading finance. Annelise has over 20 years of experience in finance, credit, real estate, family office, risk, structuring, governance, and digital assets. She was previously head of institutional for Arca Labs, working with companies to drive blockchain innovation through strategic partnerships and advisory services as well as COO of Propellr LLC, company that creates a platform for digitally held assets. Annelise spent 12 years at Moody’s Investor Service running teams in structured finance. She is a thought leader, board advisor, university lecturer and author. Her book, From Hoodies to Suits: Innovating Digital Assets in Traditional Finance, hit shelves in June 2024. Annelise holds an M.B.A. from Columbia Business School and a B.A. in Economics from The College of William and Mary.

Summary

Video Presentation 

Jon E. Zagrodzky serves as First Selectman for the Town of Darien, having been elected to this position on November 7, 2023. Jon’s prior Town roles include: member of the Board of Selectmen; member and chairman of the Board of Finance; member of the Town and Police Pension Board; member of the Public Works Garage and Ox Ridge School Building Committee Board; member and president of the Darien Historical Society.

Until his December 2023 retirement, Jon served as COO and CFO at Rhône Group, LLC, a middle market private equity firm, where he was responsible for finance, operations, human resources, administration, information technology, and business planning. Prior to Rhône, he was CAO and Chief Compliance Officer at Oak Hill Capital Management and before that spent 16 years at McKinsey & Company.

Jon earned a BA in Economics and Romance Languages from Washington & Lee University and an MBA from The Wharton School.  He is a commercial pilot and owns a Piper Seneca III. Jon moved to Darien with his wife, Sara, and their two children, Maggie and Jack, in 2005.

Summary

Ric Grefé reports that Darien First Selectman John Zagrodzky provided an update on the state of the town, covering topics such as infrastructure, real estate, public safety, and the highly anticipated development of Great Island.

Town Strengths and Growth
Zagrodzky highlighted Darien’s strong public schools, praising the quality of education, facilities, and student engagement. He noted that the town’s property values remain high, with a 20% increase in average home prices despite a low housing inventory.

New commercial developments, including Corbin District, Heights Crossing, and Darien Commons, are revitalizing the town and attracting businesses. The First Selectman urged residents to support local restaurants and shops, emphasizing the importance of keeping Darien’s economy thriving.

Challenges: Infrastructure, Crime, and Traffic
Zagrodzky addressed concerns over aging infrastructure, including sewer system failures and ongoing flooding issues. He acknowledged that major storms could overwhelm the town’s flood control measures, urging residents to take proactive steps to protect their homes. The challenge for the town is that as much attention as they pay to the flooding issues, the combination of geology, old infrastructure, and the overwhelming cost and disruption of a comprehensive redesign of the infrastructure makes comprehensive change unrealistic.

Crime remains a challenge, with unlocked car thefts continuing to be a problem. “Every stolen car had the keys left inside,” he stated, calling on residents to take basic precautions.

Traffic congestion, particularly on Post Road and near new developments, remains an issue. While improvements such as better signal timing and road redesigns are in progress, the First Selectman acknowledged that traffic will remain a long-term concern due to regional development in Norwalk and Stamford.

Great Island and Town Debt
Zagrodzky reassured residents that a master plan is being developed through public workshops, balancing conservation with community use. However, a legal dispute over tree removal on an access road has delayed progress.

Darien’s town debt has reached approximately $192 million, largely due to school renovations and the Great Island acquisition. Future borrowing, including possible renovations to Middlesex Middle School, could push this figure higher. Despite these financial commitments, the town’s AAA credit rating remains intact.

Looking Ahead
Upcoming initiatives include sidewalk expansions, a modernized parking system, park improvements, and stricter enforcement of blight regulations. The town is also exploring better town service payment options for residents, such as digital transactions.

Zagrodzky ended on a positive note, praising Darien’s sense of community and volunteer spirit. “This is the best place to live, and I want everyone to feel the same way,” he said. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through the town newsletter and social media updates.

Video of Presentation

Presentation Slides: SOTT 2025 DMA

Video Presentation

John Sullivan, our American ambassador who was on the diplomatic front lines when Putin invaded Ukraine,  will share a behind-the-scenes account of how U.S.-Russia relations hit their nadir

For weeks before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, John J. Sullivan, the U.S. ambassador in Moscow, was warning that it would happen. When troops finally crossed the border, he was woken in the middle of the night with a prearranged code. The signal was even more bracing than the February cold: it meant that Sullivan needed to collect his bodyguards and get to the embassy as soon as possible. The war had begun, and the world would never be the same.

In Midnight in Moscow, Sullivan leads readers into the offices of the U.S. embassy and the halls of the Kremlin during this climactic period—among the most dangerous since World War II. He shows how the Putin regime repeatedly lied about its intentions to invade Ukraine in the weeks leading up to the attack, while also devoting huge numbers of personnel and vast resources to undermining the U.S. diplomatic mission in Russia. And he explains how, when Putin ultimately gave the order to launch a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, he proved that Russia was not just at war with its neighbor: it was also at war, in a very real sense, with the United States, and with everything that it represents. But while Putin decided how this conflict started, its ending will be shaped by us.

With his unique perspective on a pivotal moment in world history, Sullivanshows how our relationship with Russia has deteriorated, where it’s headed, and how far we should be prepared to go in standing up to the menace in Moscow.

Mark Nunan, a long time DMA member and prolific convener and presenter, will provide a focus on Slovenia, its history and place historically in Europe and in the geopolitics of the 20th century—the nature of the country, its experience in the world wars, its post-war assimilation by Yugoslavia, and its eventual emergence as an independent nation.

Slavoj Žižek, philosopher and Director of the Birbeck Institute of the Humanities at London University is the best-known Slovenian public intellectual. He has pointed to the many paradoxes characterizing the Balkans, and his home country, as follows.

“This very alibi confronts us with the first of many paradoxes concerning Balkan: its geographic delimitation was never precise. It is as if one can never receive a definitive answer to the question, “Where does it begin?” For Serbs, it begins down there in Kosovo or Bosnia, and they defend the Christian civilization against this Europe’s Other. For Croats, it begins with the Orthodox, despotic, Byzantine Serbia, against which Croatia defends the values of democratic Western civilization. For Slovenes, it begins with Croatia, and we Slovenes are the last outpost of the peaceful Mitteleuropa. For Italians and Austrians, it begins with Slovenia, where the reign of the Slavic hordes starts. For Germans, Austria itself, on account of its historic connections, is already tainted by Balkanic corruption and inefficiency. For some arrogant Frenchmen, Germany is associated with the Balkanian Eastern savagery—up to the extreme case of some conservative anti-European-Union Englishmen for whom, in an implicit way, it is ultimately the whole of continental Europe itself that functions as a kind of Balkan Turkish global empire with Brussels as the new Constantinople, the capricious despotic center threatening English freedom and sovereignty. So Balkan is always the Other: it lies somewhere else, always a little bit more to the southeast, with the paradox that, when we reach the very bottom of the Balkan peninsula, we again magically escape Balkan. Greece is no longer Balkan proper, but the cradle of our Western civilization.”

That’s a lot to think about! Mark will try to sort it out.

Mark, who currently lives in Slovenia, was born in Cork, Ireland, in 1953. At an early age, he moved to Alabama. He graduated from the University of Alabama in 1976. He continued his education at Stanford University, where he was awarded a master’s in 1979 and a Ph.D. in 1983. Mark also studied at L’ENS (L’école normale supérieure) and at the University of Paris-Sorbonne in Paris as part of his Ph.D. program.

Mark started his career at COS Inc. in 1982 in Palo Alto, Calif., and then transferred to Paris and New York City, where he retired as a senior vice president in 2018. COS is a private firm that provides business and economic development services, assisting companies and governments to research, develop and implement new business expansion opportunities globally.

Summary

Mark Nunan, a well researched and illustrated presentation, shared the history, geopolitical significance, and cultural identity of the Slovenes. He discussed Slovenia’s historical governance under various empires, including the Romans, the Holy Roman Empire, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and later Yugoslavia. He emphasized Slovenia’s unique cultural and linguistic identity, highlighting the role of poet France Prešeren in shaping national consciousness.

Slovenia was part of Yugoslavia in the 20th century but declared independence in 1991 after a brief 10-day war. Mark explored the complex dynamics within Yugoslavia, including Tito’s leadership, ethnic tensions, and Slovenia’s strategic exit from the federation. He highlighted Slovenia’s economic and political progress since joining the EU and NATO in 2004, emphasizing its stability, safety, and modern infrastructure.

In addition to the geopolitics, Mark also shared a glimpse of what a visitor will encounter in Slovenia—scenic landscapes, from the Alps to the Adriatic, and outdoor attractions, including hiking, paragliding, and thermal spas. He also touched on the country’s rich history in religious traditions, architecture, and beekeeping. Nunan concluded with reflections on Slovenia’s transformation from an overlooked region to a thriving, independent nation with a strong European identity.

Attendees engaged with questions about Slovenia’s political climate, its role in the EU, and cultural aspects, showing great interest in the country’s evolution and present-day status.

Video Presentation 

Ron Darling serves as a game analyst for SportsNet New York (SNY) covering the New York Mets. He is also the lead game analyst for Turner Sports’ (TBS) MLB regular and post-season telecast coverage as well as a studio analyst year-around for MLB Network.

Ron joined SNY in 2006 and works alongside former teammate Keith Hernandez and play-by-play announcer Gary Cohen. In addition to his game analyst work, Darling also contributes to SNY’s Mets pre- and post-game shows and to the SNY website. Darling won an Emmy Award for best “Sports Analyst” in his first season with SNY and again in 2011.

Since 2013, Darling has served as an offseason studio analyst, where he regularly appears on the Emmy Award-winning flagship show MLB Tonight and the daily offseason morning show Hot Stove.

During his playing days on the diamond, Darling spent nine seasons as a starting pitcher for the New York Mets highlighted by winning the 1986 World Series. During his 13-year career, the Gold Glove winner also played five seasons with the Oakland Athletics after a short stint with the Montreal Expos. He amassed a win-loss record of 136-116 and recorded 1,590 strikeouts with a 3.87 ERA.

Ron was inducted into the College Baseball Hall of Fame this past February. He was a student at Yale from 1979-81.

Ron has made a significant impact in the community through the Ron Darling Foundation, raising money for diabetes research due to his eldest son Jordan being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 11. He also sits on the Board of Directors for both the Diabetes Research Institute and Habitat For Humanity.

He has authored three books: “The Complete Game: Reflections of Baseball and the Art of Pitching” (2009), “Game 7, 1986: Failure and Triumph in the Biggest Game of My Life” (2016) and “108 Stitches: Loose Threads, Ripping Yarns, and the Darndest Characters From My Time In the Game” (2019).

Ron was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and attended Yale University where he was a two-time All-American, leading the Bulldogs to two Ivy League titles. He and his wife Joanna currently reside in Connecticut. He has three sons named Tyler, Jordan and Ronald.

Arranged by Paul Steinborn

Summary

Ron Darling’s talk, in conversation with DMA president Frank DeLeo, covered his early life, baseball career, and transition into broadcasting. It was a talk filled with insightful stories, humor, and deep reflections on baseball’s past and present. He shared stories about growing up in Worcester, Massachusetts, despite being born in Hawaii, and how his mother, a talented athlete, influenced his sports career. Ron attended Yale and recounted pitching one of the greatest college games ever, an 11-inning no-hitter against St. John’s, which he lost in the 12th inning.

Ron discussed his journey to professional baseball, including his draft experience with the Texas Rangers and how a business decision caused him to drop from first to the ninth pick. He was traded to the Mets shortly after being drafted and reflected on the realities of professional baseball, including minor league challenges. He shared stories about his call-up to the majors, and facing legends like Joe Morgan, Pete Rose, and Mike Schmidt in his first outing.

Ron highlighted the Mets’ dominant era in the mid-to-late 80s, praising the athleticism and extraordinary talent of teammates like Dwight Gooden and Darryl Strawberry, Keith Hernandez and Gary Carter. He shared memorable moments from the 1986 World Series, including his losses pitching in games 1 and 4, his pride in teammate Tim Teufel’s handling of media scrutiny over his error that cost the Mets the game, and the high stakes of facing the Red Sox.

He also discussed why the Mets didn’t become a dynasty, citing aging players, off-field issues, and the intensity of their style. He reflected on the pain of losing crucial games, particularly game 7 of the 1988 NLCS. Transitioning to broadcasting, he initially resisted TV but rediscovered his love for baseball through the chance to explain the dynamics of the game to broader audiences. He described his bond with Gary Cohen and Keith Hernandez in the broadcast booth as akin to having two older brothers.

On baseball today, Ron acknowledged analytics’ importance but criticized their impact on game strategy and player development. He addressed Hall of Fame criteria changes, the decline of dominant starting pitchers, and how relievers are undervalued. He supported Pete Rose’s Hall of Fame case but warned about gambling’s growing influence in sports.

Darling fielded questions on topics like the evolution of minor league systems, the impact of a lack of salary caps, and the frustration of rule changes like the ghost runner. He shared memories of the Mets’ 1986 NLCS Game 6 win over Houston, emphasizing its intensity and the wild postgame celebrations.

Video Presentation 

As Congress and the Supreme Court relegate an increasing number of responsibilities and authorities to the states—the core tenet of federalism—it raises questions about states’ capacity to meet these expectations and whether state constitutions provide sufficient guidance within states for direction of state governments’ permitted roles and obligations toward citizens’ rights. Our state attorney general will share his perspective on how states’ can work together on tasks once considered federal and on how human rights in Connecticut can be protected.

William Tong is the 25th Attorney General to serve Connecticut since the office was established in 1897. He took office on January 9, 2019 as the first Asian American elected at the statewide level, in Connecticut.

Before his election as Attorney General, Tong served for 12 years in Connecticut’s General Assembly representing the 147th District, which includes North Stamford and Darien. Most recently, Tong served as House Chairman of the Judiciary Committee. In this position Tong was responsible for all legislation related to constitutional law, criminal law, civil rights, consumer protection, probate, judicial nominations and the Judicial branch, and major areas of substantive law.

During his service in the legislature, Tong helped lead passage of landmark legislation, including the Connecticut Second Chance Act, Domestic Violence Restraining Order Act, Lost and Stolen Firearms Act, the Act Protecting Homeowner Rights, and the Act Protecting Schoolchildren.

A Connecticut native, Tong grew up in the Hartford area and attended schools in West Hartford. He graduated from Phillips Academy Andover, Brown University and the University of Chicago Law School. Before his election as Attorney General, he practiced law for 18 years as a litigator in both state and federal courts, first at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, in New York City and then for 15 years at Finn Dixon & Herling LLP, in Stamford.

Tong is the oldest of five children, and grew up working side-by-side with his immigrant parents in their family’s Chinese restaurant. He and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Stamford with their three children and too many pets. Elizabeth is Vice President of Tax for North America for Diageo Corporation.

Summary

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong presented an overview of his role, key responsibilities, and major initiatives. He emphasized the state’s sovereignty within the U.S. federal system and his office’s dual mandate: managing Connecticut’s legal affairs and addressing broader social issues such as consumer protection, public health, and corporate accountability.

Key responsibilities:

1. Legal Management: Tong described his role as running Connecticut’s largest law firm, handling litigation, contracts, and regulatory issues for state agencies.
2. Consumer Protection: He highlighted efforts to combat scams, ensure fair business practices, and address pressing social concerns like the opioid crisis, social media addiction, and vaping.

Major initiatives:

1. Opioid Crisis: Tong led Connecticut’s role in securing over $50 billion in state settlements from opioid manufacturers and distributors, emphasizing the addiction industry’s devastating effects on families and communities.
2. Tobacco Litigation: He discussed the legacy of the landmark tobacco settlement, which continues to fund public health initiatives while underscoring the inherent conflicts in relying on revenues from harmful industries.
3. Social Media Accountability: Tong focused on lawsuits against platforms like Meta (Facebook and Instagram) for exploiting user addiction, particularly targeting youth. He explained the harmful impact of algorithms, content moderation failures, and the platforms’ role in promoting mental health issues and misinformation.

Broader themes:

• Federalism: Tong underscored the importance of historic state sovereignty in addressing issues Congress has failed to resolve.
• Corporate Accountability: He critiques industries like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and technology for prioritizing profits over public well-being, advocating for systemic reforms.
• Youth and Technology: He expressed concern over social media’s addictive nature and its role in shaping harmful behaviors among young people, urging stronger state and corporate responsibility.
• Health and Gambling: Tong identified issues with legalized sports betting and vaping, particularly their appeal to young men, as ongoing challenges.

Challenges

• Systemic Inertia: Tong acknowledges that litigation is a slow and inefficient way to create policy, but he views it as necessary in the absence of congressional action.
• Balancing Innovation and Regulation: While advocating for stricter controls, he recognizes concerns about stifling technological and economic growth.

Closing thoughts:

Tong emphasized the role of attorneys general as a bipartisan force addressing large-scale issues Congress cannot, stressing the importance of state action in safeguarding public welfare. He calls for systemic changes to address healthcare costs, corporate influence, and the impact of digital technologies on society.

Video Presentation

The Economist has been published since September 1843 to take part “in a severe contest between intelligence, which presses forward, and an unworthy, timid ignorance obstructing our progress”. It is considered to be neither right nor left, but a blend of the two, drawing on the classical liberalism of the 19th century and coming from what we like to call the radical centre.

One of its features is its annual forecast of issues and events that are likely to influence our experience of the new year, this year “The World Ahead 2025.”

Daniel Franklin is currently serving as the senior Britain editor as well as executive editor of The Economist magazine. He has been executive editor since 2006. From 2003 to 2019 he was editor of The Economist‘s annual publication on the year ahead (at the time called “The World in…”). Daniel published “Megatech: Technology in 2050”  in 2017 and his book on long-term trends, “Megachange: The World in 2050”, published in 2012.

He joined The Economist in 1983 to write about Soviet and East European affairs. As the newspaper’s Europe editor from 1986 to 1992 he covered the great European upheavals, from the collapse of communism to the signing of the Maastricht treaty. After a stint as Britain editor he moved to the United States as Washington bureau chief, covering the first Clinton term. In 1997 he moved back to London as editorial director of the Economist Intelligence Unit. From 2006 to 2010 he was editor-in-chief of Economist.com. For the following four years he was business affairs editor, running the paper’s coverage of business, finance, science and technology. Before the pandemic he was diplomatic editor, shuttling between Washington and London.

Summary

Daniel Franklin, a seasoned journalist and executive editor of The Economist, offered a comprehensive review of global trends, challenges, and opportunities for 2025.  His presentation blended a mix of optimism about technological and economic opportunities with cautionary insights about geopolitical and economic risks, underscoring the complexities of navigating the global landscape in 2025:

Global Uncertainties and Shocks: Franklin emphasized the unpredictability of world events, from natural disasters to geopolitical upheavals, citing examples like the pandemic, regime changes, and economic shocks.

Focus on Donald Trump: A significant portion of the talk was dedicated to the expected impact of a second Trump presidency. Franklin outlined three phases: immediate executive actions on immigration and trade, legislative battles within the first 100 days, and foreign policy initiatives over the first year, including potential resolutions in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Major Global Players:

• China: Facing internal challenges like demographic shifts and external pressures from the U.S., China’s economic policies and technological advancements remain focal points.
• India: Highlighted as a rising power with strong economic growth, benefiting from a young demographic and expanding global influence.
• Europe: Struggles in major economies like France and Germany were contrasted with recoveries in Greece and Portugal. The UK faces post-Brexit challenges.
• Russia and Ukraine: The ongoing conflict and its implications for global geopolitics and energy markets were discussed, alongside Putin’s vulnerabilities.

Technology and AI: The role of artificial intelligence in reshaping industries. Franklin noted significant investments in AI but highlighted its slow integration into corporate processes.

Economic Concerns:

• Inflationary pressures and the risks of growing government deficits.
• Potential market corrections and their implications for global economies.

Media Landscape: Franklin discussed the challenges facing traditional media, emphasizing the transition to digital formats, the role of AI in content creation, and the importance of maintaining journalistic integrity in a landscape vulnerable to misinformation.

Global Trends and Innovations: He highlighted innovations in green technology, shifts in global trade routes due to geopolitical tensions, and cultural trends, such as Japan’s rising tourism appeal and the role of major global events like Expo 2025 in Osaka.

Audience Questions: The Q&A delved into:

• U.S. – China trade relations.
• The future of nuclear deterrence.
• The sustainability of media organizations like the Washington Post.
• Britain’s post-Brexit positioning and its relationship with Europe and the U.S.

Video Presentation 

Archaeological investigations throughout the northeastern United States have shown that the region has been occupied by Native Americans since the end of the Ice Age. In Fairfield County, archaeological digs have yielded evidence of this long tenure by these first occupants. Much of this evidence has been found by both professional and avocational archaeologists working in the area. This presentation will discuss the current state of our knowledge about the region’s first peoples and their cultural and technological adaptations to the changing natural environment of the Northeast. Artifacts from local sites investigated by students from the Norwalk Community College Archaeology Certificate Program will also be available for inspection. Attendees are encouraged to bring any Native American artifacts they have found in the area for identification.

Ernest A. Wiegand has been a professor of archaeology at Norwalk Community College since 1975, when the archaeology certificate program was designed to make archaeology accessible for the avocational archaeologist. He received a Master’s degree in anthropology from Hunter College and has also been active with the Archaeological Society of Connecticut as well as performing many compliance-driven archaeological and historical studies in Fairfield County Connecticut and Westchester County New York.

Summary
Professor Ernest Wiegand provided a comprehensive overview of the Fairfield County’s archaeological history from the Paleo-Indian period to early European contact.

Paleo-Indian Period (12000-8000 BC)
The earliest human occupation in Connecticut dates back to around 13,000-14,000 years ago, following the retreat of glaciers. During this time, the environment was significantly different, with the shoreline much further out and now-extinct megafauna like mammoths and mastodons roaming the area. The Paleo-Indian people used distinctive fluted projectile points known as Clovis points for hunting.

Notable Paleo-Indian sites in Connecticut include:

• The Templeton site in Washington Depot
• A recently discovered site along the Farmington River
• The Allen Meadow site in Wilton

These sites provide valuable insights into the earliest human inhabitants of the region, their tools, and their way of life.

Archaic Period (8000-1000 BC)
Following the Paleo-Indian period , the Archaic period saw significant environmental changes, including the establishment of modern flora and fauna. Key developments during this time included:

• The transition to a deciduous forest ecosystem
• The rise of white-tailed deer as the primary game animal
• The use of spear-throwers for hunting
• The development of ground stone tools

Archaic period sites are more numerous and diverse, reflecting a more settled lifestyle and adaptation to local environments.

Woodland Period (1000 BC – 1540 AD)
The Woodland period is marked by several important innovations:

• The introduction of pottery around 1,000 BC
• The adoption of bow and arrow technology around 500 AD
• The beginnings of agriculture, particularly corn cultivation
• The establishment of more permanent settlements

During this period, there’s evidence of increased social complexity and the first signs of conflict between Native American groups.

Contact Period (Early 1600s)
The arrival of European explorers and settlers in the early 17th century marked the beginning of the Contact period. This era saw significant changes in Native American life, including:

• The introduction of European trade goods
• Devastating epidemics that decimated Native populations
• Increased conflict, such as the Pequot War

Archaeological evidence from this period is relatively rare but provides valuable insights into the early interactions between Native Americans and Europeans.

Archaeological Techniques and Challenges
The lecture highlighted several important aspects of archaeological practice:

• The use of various dating techniques, including radiocarbon dating and relative dating based on artifact typology
• The importance of context in interpreting archaeological finds
• The challenges of preservation in New England’s acidic soils
• The use of modern technologies like ground-penetrating radar and LIDAR in archaeological research

Threats to Archaeological Sites
The lecture also addressed the ongoing threats to archaeological sites, primarily from development. Key points include:

• The irreplaceable nature of archaeological sites and the information they contain
• The importance of conducting archaeological surveys before development projects
• The role of state and local regulations in protecting archaeological resources
• The need for collaboration between archaeologists, developers, and local communities

Community Involvement and Education
Professor Wiegand emphasized the importance of community involvement in archaeology, highlighting:

• The contributions of avocational archaeologists to local research
• The archaeology program at Norwalk Community College, which provides hands-on experience for students
• The value of public education and outreach in preserving archaeological resources

Conclusion
The lecture underscores the rich archaeological heritage of Connecticut and the ongoing efforts to study and preserve it. It emphasizes the importance of archaeology in understanding the region’s long human history and the need for continued research and protection of archaeological sites. Professor Wiegand concluded with a call for increased awareness and cooperation in preserving archaeological resources, recognizing that once these sites are destroyed, a unique page of history is lost forever. The lecturer encouraged audience members to report any potential archaeological finds and to support local efforts in archaeological research and preservation.

Professor Wiegand also offered to evaluate findings of DMA members that may have archeological significance. Simply contact him to arrange an appointment and bring your artifacts.

Video Presentation 

We all have our individual impressions of IBM, many from the 1960s, when the company was seen as the safest source of business processing support. Led for 40 years by Thomas J. Watson, Sr., as an enlightened source of mechanical computing capability based on punch cards. There would inevitably be challenges of corporate and family (and technological) succession. Tom Watson, Jr., became the internal champion of transitioning the firm to electronic computing. And he may have been the only person who could oppose his father in a company built on yes men; apparently, his own motivation to transform IBM was an  intense antipathy toward his father.

Marc Wortman, PhD, is a multi-award-winning independent historian and freelance journalist. He is the author of five books on American military, technology, and social history, most recently The Greatest Capitalist Who Ever Lived: Tom Watson Jr. and the Epic Story of How IBM Created the Digital Age (PublicAffairs, 2023). A New York Times Book Review Editor’s Choice, it is the first solo biography of the leader who launched the computer revolution. The U.S. Military History Group named his previous book, Admiral Hyman Rickover: Engineer of Power (Yale University Press, 2022), winner of the 2023 Captain Richard Lukaszewicz Memorial Book Award as the outstanding military history book of the year.

His other books are 1941: Fighting the Shadow War, A Divided America in a World at War (Atlantic Monthly, 2016); The Bonfire: The Siege and Burning of Atlanta (PublicAffairs, 2009), and The Millionaires’ Unit: The Aristocratic Flyboys Who Fought the Great War and Invented American Air Power (PublicAffairs, 2006). A feature-length documentary based on The Millionaires’ Unit is available on streaming services. 

Following college at Brown University, he received a doctorate in Comparative Literature from Princeton University. He lives with his family in New Haven. 

Summary

Our speaker—historian and journalist Marc Wortman— on shared the life and legacy of Thomas J. Watson Jr., his impact on IBM, and its pivotal role in creating the modern digital age. Marc explored the fascinating interplay of technology, leadership, and personal drama that defined Watson Jr.’s tenure and IBM’s rise to prominence. The talk was based on his research for his recent book, The Greatest Capitalist Who Ever Lived: Tom Watson Jr. and the Epic Story of How IBM Created the Digital Age (A New York Times Book Review Editor’s Choice).

Marc opened by acknowledging IBM’s historical significance, particularly under the leadership of Thomas J. Watson Sr., who transformed a failing company into a leader in business computing using mechanical systems based on punch cards. Wortman describes Watson Sr. as a charismatic but domineering leader who cultivated a corporate culture of loyalty and discipline, often to the point of fostering a cult of personality around himself. IBM became renowned for its guaranteed employment and superior worker benefits, a model referred to as the “IBM way.”

Transition to Thomas J. Watson Jr.

Thomas J. Watson Jr., the oldest son, had a contentious relationship with his father and initially resisted joining IBM. Described as rebellious and plagued by personal struggles, Watson Jr. ultimately found discipline and confidence as a World War II bomber pilot. His wartime experiences revealed his aptitude for leadership, decision-making, and logistics, prompting him to return to IBM, where he eventually assumed leadership in 1956.

Four Pivotal Decisions

Wortman structures his talk around four major decisions Watson Jr. made during his career, each demonstrating his forward-thinking approach and willingness to take risks:

1. Commitment to Electronics:
   • After the war, Watson Jr. recognized the potential of electronic computing, even as his father remained skeptical. Despite initial setbacks, Watson Jr. championed IBM’s shift from mechanical tabulators to electronic computers, leading to the creation of the IBM 650, the first mass-produced computer.
2. Cultural and Organizational Revamp:
   • Upon taking full control of IBM, Watson Jr. dismantled his father’s centralized, personality-driven management style. He decentralized decision-making, promoted innovation, and cultivated a culture that valued creative thinking over deference. This transformation prepared IBM to adapt to the rapidly changing technological landscape.
3. The System/360 Gamble:
   • Watson Jr.’s boldest move was the introduction of the IBM System/360, a revolutionary computer family designed to be compatible across applications. The project, costing over $5 billion (an unprecedented private investment), faced significant technical challenges but ultimately redefined computing, creating a standard for hardware compatibility and software flexibility. The System/360’s success cemented IBM’s dominance in the industry.
4. Choosing IBM Over Family:
   • During the System/360 crisis, Watson Jr. made the difficult decision to replace his brother, Dick Watson, who was struggling in his role overseeing engineering and manufacturing. This decision, though professionally necessary, deeply strained family relationships and underscored the personal costs of leadership.

IBM’s Legacy under Watson Jr.

Under Watson Jr.’s leadership, IBM became the world’s most valuable company, dominating the computing industry and driving the development of foundational technologies such as magnetic storage, database systems, and early artificial intelligence. The System/360 series alone set the stage for modern computing, enabling advancements in industries ranging from banking to aerospace.

Reflections and Conclusion

The presentation concludes by highlighting Watson Jr.’s extraordinary impact on both IBM and the global economy, justifying his designation as “the greatest capitalist who ever lived.” Wortman also reflects on the personal sacrifices and tragedies intertwined with Watson Jr.’s professional success, offering a nuanced portrait of a transformative leader.

Audience engagement included questions about IBM’s historical role, its relationships with other companies, and its long-term trajectory, providing additional context on the company’s influence and evolution. The session ended with Wortman signing copies of his book and expressing gratitude to the attendees.

Video Presentation 

The Koh-i-noor Diamond is one of the world’s most well known diamonds. It is by no means the world’s biggest diamond, but it is by far the most infamous. Its storied history spans centuries-the Koh-i-nor has passed through the hands of many rulers, dynasties and empires in South and Central Asia, including the Mughal emperors of India, Persian Shahs, Afghan rulers and Sikh Maharajas, before ending up in the British Crown Jewels. This rich history and the curse it allegedly casts on male owners has added to its notoriety, mystique and fame. Its controversial “acquisition” by Queen Victoria has made its presence in the British Crown Jewels a subject of debate. India, Pakistan, Iran and even the Taliban have laid a claim to it.

Sunil Saksena’s presentation will recount some of its history and the myths and legends that surround it. It’s an amazing story.

Sunil  is a member of the Darien DMA and its past President. He was born in India in 1944 and received a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology , Roorkee.

He worked at Union Carbide India before proceeding to the University of California, Berkeley in 1966 for graduate work. He received a masters degree in engineering as well as an MBA from Berkeley. Sunil worked as a mechanical engineer with American Can Company in San Francisco where his claim to fame is that he designed the machine that puts the can cover on the beer can making it safe for you beer drinkers to safely imbibe. For the majority of his career he was in finance, first as an international banker with Bankers Trust Company serving in Singapore, Mumbai and New York and later with Fidelity Investments from which he retired in 2004.

He and his wife  lived in Darien for  38 years and have just this year moved to Vermont.

Summary

Sunil Saksena shared with us the story of the The Koh-i-Noor Diamond: A Gem’s Journey Through History.

The Koh-i-Noor diamond, currently weighing 93 carats, is a legendary gem with a rich and dramatic history spanning centuries and continents. Despite its relatively modest size by modern standards, the Koh-i-Noor’s fame stems from its ancient origins and the captivating stories surrounding it.

Origins and Early History

The diamond originated in central India, with legends tracing its beginnings to a divine gift from the sun god Suria to a local king. Unlike modern diamond mining, ancient Indian diamonds were alluvial — gently collected from riverbeds in the legendary state of Gonda. While most diamonds were tiny, occasionally a remarkable stone like the Koh-i-Noor would emerge.

Cultural Significance in Ancient India

In ancient India, diamonds were more than mere decorative objects:

• Considered auspicious objects
• Believed to channel planetary influences
• Symbols of prosperity and power
• Often used as the primary form of adornment in royal courts

India was the world’s sole source of diamonds until the discovery of Brazilian mines in 1725. Indian diamonds were coveted globally, from ancient Egypt to Rome and China. Today, the largest diamonds, which have eclipsed the Koh-i-Noor in size, are principally from Africa.

The Legendary Curse

The Koh-i-Noor carries an intriguing curse suggesting that only “God or a woman” can wear it without consequence. Throughout its history, the diamond has been associated with a trail of theft, bloodshed, and misfortune to common men and noble men alike

Journey through empires

The diamond’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary:

• 12th Century: First documented in Delhi, where it remained for 500 years
• 1737: Taken by Persian Emperor Nader Shah to Herat
• Mid-1800s: Acquired by Sikh Emperor
• 1849: Captured by the British and transported to England

The Mughal Connection

The diamond became particularly famous during the Mughal Empire. Emperor Babur, who acquired it in 1526, transformed it into the “Mountain of Light” (Koh-i-Noor’s literal translation). During this period, the Mughal Empire was incredibly wealthy, controlling over 100 million subjects across current-day India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan.

The Mughals were known for their opulence and love of gemstones. Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned the spectacular Peacock Throne, which featured the Koh-i-Noor diamond as one of its centerpieces and included literally thousands of diamonds.

Persian Invasion and Afghan Rule

In 1739, Nader Shah of Persia invaded Delhi and plundered its riches, including the Koh-i-Noor. A popular legend, though unverified, tells of how Nader Shah acquired the diamond through a turban exchange with the defeated Mughal emperor, who had hidden it in his turban.

After Nader Shah’s assassination in 1747, the diamond came into the possession of Ahmad Shah Durrani, who established the kingdom of Afghanistan. The Koh-i-Noor remained in Afghanistan for the next 70 years

British Acquisition and Current Status

The British acquired the Koh-i-Noor in 1849 through a transaction that has been questioned by India as a colonial transgression and transported it to England. Today, it resides in the Tower of London as part of the British Crown jewels—the Crown of the Queen Mother, although it has not been worn publicly since 1953.

Ongoing Controversy

Currently, five different countries claim ownership of this remarkable gem: India, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and even the Taliban have made claims. England, however, has maintained that it acquired it legitimately and good faith as a spoil of empire

In the mid-19th century, British diplomats befriended a 10-year-old Punjabi Sikh prince, the Maharaja Duleep Singh, who’d inherited the Kohinoor. They took the boy’s diamond as part of an 1849 treaty marking the end of the second Anglo-Sikh war — and presented it to Queen Victoria.

Video Presentation

For over 40 years, Search for Common Ground has been building trust around the world, opening opportunities for collaboration between communities, and creating breakthroughs for peace. Whether global in nature, such as poverty, hunger or the environment, or closer to home, such as family or community relations, we face daily challenges to our abilities to deal with conflict constructively. Using everything from traditional diplomacy and mediation to video games and virtual exchange, we work one step at a time to change the nature of conflict – from a destructive force to a constructive one.

Stepping back from conflict enables and requires trust and provides the foundation for collaboration to solve complex problems. It allows people to look past differences, have difficult conversations, take shared risks, find common ground, and invest in pathways towards a shared future. Search for Common Ground CEO Shamil Idriss will discuss the organization’s principes, techniques and accomplishments—perhaps igniting a recognition in us for other arenas in which polarization can be bridged.

Shamil Idriss is the Chief Executive Officer of Search for Common Ground, the world’s largest dedicated peacebuilding organization. In his current capacity as CEO, and in his previous capacities as President, Chief Operating Officer, and Burundi Country Director, Shamil has led Search’s efforts to end violent conflict in more than 35 countries globally, including some of the most devastating conflict zones in the Middle East and Africa.

Shamil was appointed in 2005 by United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan as Deputy Director of the UN Alliance of Civilizations. In this role, he supported high-level political and religious leaders in developing policy recommendations and action plans to improve cross-cultural relations between Western and Muslim-majority countries, before, during, and after the Arab Spring revolutions. From 2004-2005, Shamil worked with the World Economic Forum to establish the Forum’s Council of 100 Leaders.

Shamil is also a pioneer in the use of interactive media technologies for cross-cultural education and collaboration. In 2008-2014, as the CEO of Soliya, he led a coalition to create a market for virtual exchange through partnerships with public and private sector leaders across the United States, the Arab League, and the European Union. This led to the establishment of the J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange Initiative announced by President Barack Obama in February 2015, and the subsequent announcement by the European Commission of their dedicated fund to expand virtual exchange in 2017.

A graduate of Swarthmore College with degrees in Economics and Philosophy.

Summary

Shamil Idriss, CEO of Search for Common Ground, discussed global polarization and conflict resolution through trust-building and understanding.

His organization’s mission is to transform the way the world deals with conflict, away from adversarial approaches and toward cooperative solutions. They believe that conflict is inevitable but violence is not. Conflict is a natural result of human diversity. When we deal with conflict adversarially, it generates polarization and violence. When we collaborate, conflict catalyzes positive change. Their vision is a world where cooperation is the norm—where differences stimulate social progress, rather than precipitate violence.

Global Polarization Landscape

Idriss highlighted that the world has been experiencing unprecedented levels of political polarization since 1900, with societies increasingly viewing opposing groups as existential threats. This polarization is not just a political phenomenon but a global challenge that can potentially lead to destructive conflicts.

Conflict as a Constructive Force

Conflict is natural and inevitable, but violence is not. Idriss uses a powerful metaphor comparing conflict to friction – which can be destructive like an uncontrolled fire or generative as human control of fire has allowed human development and innovation. The key in keeping the flames under control is managing conflict through trust and understanding.

Five Vital Signs of a Healthy Society

Inspired by medical vital signs, Idriss and his organization have developed five critical indicators to assess a society’s resilience.

1. Intercommunal Trust: The level of trust across different racial, political, religious, and ideological lines.
2. Institutional Trust: Citizens’ trust in governing institutions, media, and service providers.
3. Violence Levels: The degree of physical insecurity and potential for escalating violence.
4. Agency: People’s sense of ability to improve their circumstances.
5. Resources: Understanding what is prioritized in the budget and what is ignored.

Diversity and Trust

Idriss emphasizes that diverse teams can be both the most and least effective, depending on trust. High-performing diverse teams outperform homogeneous groups, but building trust takes more time and effort across different backgrounds. The key is creating an environment where diverse perspectives can be shared openly and respectfully.

Practical Peacebuilding Approach

Search for Common Ground works in 36 countries, employing 850 full-time staff. Their approach includes:

• Facilitating dialogue between conflicting groups
• Creating collaborative platforms
• Establishing cross-cultural educational initiatives

Notable Achievements

• Facilitated meetings between Israeli and Jordanian generals that influenced the 1994 Peace Accord
• Created bilingual, multi-ethnic schools in Macedonia to bridge ethnic divides
• Developed a global framework for understanding and mitigating societal tensions

The organization’s core philosophy is transforming conflict from a destructive force to a constructive one, emphasizing trust-building as the fundamental mechanism for positive change.

Slides: Darien Mens Association – Trends in Global Conflict & Cooperation

Video Presentation