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Ron Darling, “Baseball!,” Jan 29, 2025

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

William Tong, “Judicial Federalism and Legal Issues Facing Connecticut,” Jan 22, 2025

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. He has practiced law for the last 18 years as a litigator in both state and federal courts, first at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, in New York City and for the past 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.

Daniel Franklin, “The World in 2025,” Jan 15, 2025

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 in 2025.”

Daniel Franklin is currently serving as US editor, as well being 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”, was 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.

Ernest Wiegand, “Prehistoric Connecticut”, Jan 8, 2025

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.

Marc Wortman, “Thomas J. Watson, Jr., The Greatest Capitalist Who Ever Lived,” Dec 18, 2024

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 

Sunil Saksena, “The Koh-i-Noor: The Story of the World’s Most Infamous Diamond,” Dec 11, 2024

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

Shamil Idriss, “Finding Common Ground to Change the Nature of Conflict,” Nov 20, 2024

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 

 

Susan Herbst, “The 2024 American Election in Historical Perspective: Legacies of 1930s,” Nov 13, 2024

Certainly one of the most prominent topics surrounding politics this year is the influence of social media, with its opportunity to publish every personal opinion without an editor focusing on truth, objectivity, and balance. This is a central them of the academic work of Susan Herbst.

Susan Herbst is University Professor of Political Science and President Emeritus at the University of Connecticut, having served for eight years as the 15th president of the institution.  Herbst is author of five books, most recently, A Troubled Birth:  The 1930s and American Public Opinion from the University of Chicago Press.   Before coming to UCONN, she was Professor and Chair of Political Science at Northwestern University, Dean of Liberal Arts at Temple University, and Chief Academic Officer for the University System of Georgia.  She holds a B.A. in Political Science from Duke University and a doctorate in Communications from the Annenberg School of Communications, University of Southern California.

Summary

The talk presented by political historian Susan Herbst focused on the parallels between the 1930s and present-day America, especially in terms of public opinion, media influence, and the roles of government, populism, and public sentiment. Herbst began by discussing the rise of public opinion and polling in the 1930s, spearheaded by President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s innovative use of radio to communicate directly with the American public and George Gallup’s scientific polling methods. This era marked the birth of the concept of a unified American public opinion, and the use of radio as a tool for building national unity and morale, which was particularly relevant during the Great Depression and the lead-up to World War II.

Herbst also explored the dynamics of public opinion and populism in the 1930s, including the rise of figures like Huey Long and Father Coughlin, who both leveraged radio to spread their views. She argued that many current issues, such as anti-intellectualism, authoritarian populism, and paranoia about government, have roots in this earlier period. The development of polling in the 1930s by figures like Gallup not only aimed to quantify public opinion but also suggested that this “voice of the people” could serve as a safeguard for democracy. However, Herbst emphasized that polling itself can inadvertently shape public opinion by legitimizing specific issues, as seen with controversial topics in historical and modern polls.

The presentation drew direct lines between the public’s trust in polling, the ethics and expectations of political leaders, and modern-day concerns about misinformation, anti-elitism, and populism. Herbst suggested that polling today faces challenges, especially with issues around accuracy and the underrepresentation of certain groups, such as Trump supporters, due to response biases. The discussion extended into the role of media, arguing that news organizations often exploit polling data for sensationalism rather than informative reporting, a trend that echoes how 1930s advertisers and corporations promoted consumerism to form a “public.”

Herbst concluded by stressing the importance of teaching civics and media literacy from an early age to combat misinformation and polarization, arguing that better education could help future generations understand the importance of democratic participation. Additionally, she acknowledged the lasting influence of populist, charismatic leaders like Trump, who blend entertainment with politics. Ultimately, Herbst cautioned against taking democracy for granted, urging deeper reflection on the parallels between the 1930s and today, and the societal and structural changes needed to safeguard democratic principles.

Video Presentation 

Marcus Miller, “Beauty and Logic: Jazz and Math”, Nov 6, 2024

Marcus G. Miller is a distinguished saxophonist, composer, and Music Curator from South Orange, New Jersey, now based in New York City. He began performing professionally in his teens, later graduating from Harvard University in 2008 with a degree in Mathematics. After a stint at Bridgewater Associates, he returned to music, making a name for himself in New York’s jazz scene. Miller has performed at high-profile venues across the world, including the Obama White House, Madison Square Garden, the World Economic Forum at Davos, Carnegie Hall.

Miller has collaborated and performed extensively with Jon Batiste, including Batiste’s Grammy winning album “We Are”, his documentary American Symphony, and the nationwide Uneasy tour, which included a date opening for The Rolling Stones.

Miller’s life-long fascination with the intersection of math and music has led to residencies at the National Museum of Mathematics, Brown University’s physics department, and TED appearances. In 2022, Miller became the Music Director at Grace Farms Foundation, curating programs like “Voices of Culture,” where he invites, performs with, and interviews some of the world’s best musicians, enabling them to share their deep knowledge of their traditions; and “Beauty & Logic,” where he performs while exploring his shared wonder between mathematics and music. Marcus currently is working on a interdisciplinary project, exploring themes of beauty and humanity via music and design in the age of AI.

Summary

Marcus Miller, a noted jazz saxophonist and music director at Grace Farms, examined and demonstrated the relationship between mathematics, jazz, science, and art. He highlighted how patterns, rhythms, and disruptive elements exist in parallel constructs, though very different forms, across these disciplines, showcasing how creativity and analytical thought intersect or mirror each other.

After positing his observations on the relationships, based on his musical explorations as well as a Harvard degree in mathematics, he demonstrated the phenomenon with audio-video clips of artists performing in genres as diverse as be-bop, pop, blues, and classical Baroque. To make his point, he would accompany these performances on his sax to emphasize for the audience the points he was making—to wit, the expected patterns of the Golden Ratio of mathematics can be used by a musician to disrupt the expectations a listener might have for repetition and pattern so that the listener is drawn into anticipating change rather than continuity in the aural experience.

The presentation was an introduction into Marcus’ current interest in “Beauty & Logic,” an interdisciplinary project exploring themes of beauty and humanity via music and design in the age of AI. To  reassure the audience, he acknowledged during the Q&A that he is drawn to jazz experiences first by its intuitive “tasty” appeal before looking more deeply into the armature of the piece to continuously improve his own understanding of his discipline.

Video Presentation

Jim Knox & Carolyn Rinaldi, “The Wolves of Yellowstone,” Oct 30, 2024

In 1995 after an absence of more than half a century, North America’s most iconic apex predator returned to the pristine wilderness of the world’s first national park. In 2023, after more than a decade of planning, students from the national award-winning Conservation Discovery Corps launched a field study of the wolves of Yellowstone. Join Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo Curators, Jim Knox and Carolyn Rinaldi to hear their story…and experience the adventure of a lifetime.

Jim Knox serves as the Curator of Education for Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo where he directs educational programming and conducts field conservation for this AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) accredited institution. Jim is a graduate of Cornell University where he studied Animal Science and Applied Economics. He has tracked Gray Wolves in Yellowstone National Park, conducted field research on Alaskan Brown Bears, field conservation for Atlantic Salmon, and written for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and for Natural History magazine.

A member of The Explorers Club, Jim has served as an on-camera wildlife expert for The Today Show and The CBS Early Show. Jim has lectured for The Explorers Club and served as a guest speaker for The Yale School of The Environment, The Harvard College Conservation Society, and The United States Coast Guard Academy. He has been featured in The New York Times, served as a TEDx Presenter and as a Guest Host for Connoisseur Media Star 99.9 FM Anna & Raven Show. Jim writes a column, Wildly Successful, for The Greenwich Sentinel and is proud to serve as a Science Advisor to The Bruce Museum.

Carolyn Rinaldi is the Associate Curator of Education at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo where she leads Education and Conservation initiatives on and off grounds. Carolyn graduated from the University of Connecticut with a degree in Anthropology and Archaeology. As part of her studies, she travelled around the globe by ship, for three months, studying world cultures. Carolyn has experience as a veterinary technician as well as a birds of prey handler. After having a twenty-year career as a family therapist, Carolyn returned to the world of animals and joined the Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo team. She directs the Zoo’s AZA Award Winning Teen Volunteer program the Conservation Discovery Corps, and will be leading this year’s 2024 class in a second field expedition in Yellowstone National Park. Carolyn is the host of radio show, Zoonami – Adventures from Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo on iCRV Radio in Ivoryton, CT. She has had guest spots as a zoologist on Connoisseur Media’s Star 99.9 FM Anna & Raven Show.

Carolyn also has a passion for martial arts and teaches Karate and Self Defense at Yale University. In 2017, she was a member of the National Karate Team and competed in the Karate World Cup in Ireland, representing the United States.

Summary

Jim Knox and Carolyn Rinaldi from Beardsley Zoo explored the zoo’s conservation efforts and detailed their unique educational journey to Yellowstone National Park with students to study wolves and the broader ecosystem. They began by highlighting the intrinsic interest humans have in wolves, referencing Aldo Leopold’s insights on the “fierce green fire” within wolves’ eyes, symbolizing resilience, wisdom, and survival instincts. Jim and Carolyn presented Yellowstone’s history, focusing on the ecological impact of the park’s predator-prey dynamics, notably wolves, on its environment.

They traced the historical absence and reintroduction of wolves in Yellowstone. Due to human concerns for safety, wolves and other predators were eradicated from the park by the early 20th century. The absence led to severe ecological imbalance, mainly due to the overpopulation of elk, which caused overgrazing, eroded landscapes, and declines in tree and plant species like Aspen and Willow. This decline subsequently affected other wildlife, reducing populations of animals like grizzly bears, foxes, and beavers.

In the 1970s, recognizing wolves as a keystone species, conservationists pushed for their return, beginning with the Endangered Species Act. In 1995, 14 wolves from Alberta, Canada, were reintroduced into Yellowstone, leading to a restored ecological balance. Carolyn explained how wolves decreased elk numbers, which allowed plant life and tree populations to recover, fostering a positive cascading effect that boosted populations of other species. This balance brought back bears, beavers, and various bird species, enhancing biodiversity in the park.

The Beardsley Zoo team, alongside a group of students, observed and studied Yellowstone’s wolf packs during their expedition, experiencing firsthand the intricacies of predator-prey interactions. The group witnessed wolves feeding on bison kills and interacted with National Park Service biologists involved in the Yellowstone Wolf Project. They learned to track wolves using GPS collars and studied prominent wolves like number 21, a revered alpha known for his strength and loyalty. The experience allowed students to gain valuable conservation insights, from wolf-pack dynamics to the wolf’s critical role within ecosystems.

The presenters shared personal anecdotes from their expedition, including seeing grizzly bears up close and observing other wildlife like bison, elk, and salamanders (yes, salamanders which had been illusive), illustrating the park’s rich biodiversity. They discussed other conservation projects, including Beardsley Zoo’s efforts to restore habitats, protect endangered species, and foster environmental awareness through youth programs like the Conservation Discovery Corps. Jim and Carolyn highlighted the zoo’s commitment to conservation beyond its 50-acre property, with projects supporting Atlantic salmon restoration and horseshoe crab tagging.

Concluding the presentation, Jim reiterated the importance of wolves and other apex predators in maintaining ecological balance and encouraged collective efforts in conservation. This unique expedition enriched students’ understanding of wildlife and ecology, imparting an enduring appreciation for the complex interplay within natural ecosystems. The session ended with a Q&A, discussing future challenges, including maintaining balanced predator-prey relationships, the impact of wolves on other species, and broader efforts to manage coyote populations in suburban areas.

Video Presentation

Amit Khanna, “Promoting Colorectal Wellness,” Oct 23, 2024

Amit Khanna, MD, is the Regional Director of Colon & Rectal Surgery, Bridgeport Hospital

Dr. Khanna is a New York City native and completed his undergraduate education at Johns Hopkins University. Returning to New York, he completed his medical degree from Mount Sinai/ NYU School of Medicine and completed a master’s in public health with a concentration in Health Policy and Management from Columbia University. He completed general surgery training at the University of Rochester followed by a fellowship in colon and rectal surgery at The Cleveland Clinic Florida.

His special interest areas are in complex colorectal disease, colorectal malignancy, anorectal disease, and minimally invasive robotic surgery. Dr. Khanna has been named five times as a Castle Connolly Regional Top Doctor, Philadelphia Magazine Top Doctor-in Colon and Rectal Surgery, and Top Doctor for Cancer. He has served as an appointed member of national committees of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons in video-based education, health economics, new technology and website development. Dr. Khanna currently holds the position of Assistant Professor of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, Regional Director of Colon and Rectal Surgery and Director of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Bridgeport Hospital.

Summary

Dr. Amit  Khanna, an accomplished colorectal surgeon, gave an informative talk about colorectal health, focusing on colorectal cancer prevention, screening, and treatment

His presentation emphasized the seriousness of colorectal cancer, noting it as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite improvements in colorectal cancer rates in patients over 50, the incidence is rising alarmingly in people under 50. Dr. Khanna stressed the importance of screening, particularly since colorectal cancer often starts as benign polyps that can turn malignant over time.

He discussed various screening methods, from the gold standard of colonoscopy to stool-based DNA tests like Cologuard. While non-invasive tests offer convenience, Dr. Khanna noted that they can sometimes produce false positives or negatives, which might lead to unnecessary procedures or missed diagnoses. He mentioned recent developments, such as a newly FDA-approved blood test for average-risk patients, which could change future screening practices.

Dr. Khanna also highlighted the influence of lifestyle choices on colorectal health, explaining that smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, high red meat intake, and a sedentary lifestyle can significantly increase the risk of colorectal cancer. He encouraged increasing fiber intake, regular exercise, and a balanced diet rich in vegetables and whole grains.

Furthermore, he discussed emerging research on the microbiome’s role in colorectal cancer, noting ongoing studies at Yale examining the relationship between gut bacteria and cancer development. Dr. Khanna acknowledged that probiotics and dietary choices could impact the microbiome, but more research is needed to fully understand their preventive potential.

He also addressed the challenges survivors of colorectal cancer face, particularly in managing long-term effects from treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. The talk concluded with a strong message about the importance of primary care and team-based approaches to healthcare. Dr. Khanna emphasized that prevention, early detection, and ongoing support are key to reducing the burden of colorectal cancer

Video Presentation 

Richard Stevenson, “News Media Challenges Today,” Oct 16, 2024

There is little question that the news media have been severely disrupted over the past two decades. New gathering has suffered from a broad loss of faith in institutions, including established media. While social media and the siloing of new sources and their discrete audiences have challenged basic tenets of news gathering, the New York Times has also found ways to enhance the publication of news and its understanding with a comprehensive digital strategy. A former managing editor of the Times suggested the newspapers may be in a slump, but journalism, in all its forms, has never been more robust.

Dick Stevenson is currently the Washington editor in the Washington bureau of the New York TImes; he had had a particular focus on the Supreme Court.

Dick joined The Times in 1985 as a reporter trainee in BizDay. He went on to become a correspondent in the Los Angeles bureau from 1986 to 1992, and in London from 1992 to 1996. He then came to Washington, where he covered economics and then the White House before becoming deputy bureau chief in 2006, a role he held until 2011. He was also politics editor for the 2008 and 2012 cycles.

In 2013, he served as Europe editor, first in Paris, where he oversaw the International Herald Tribune’s transition into The New York Times International Edition, and then in London. After a stint working in New York, he returned to the Washington bureau as enterprise editor.

He was educated at the University of Pennsylvania and the London School of Economics.

Summary

Dick Stevenson, Washington Editor for The New York Times, delivered a talk addressing key challenges and transformations in journalism over the last two decades. He highlighted the broad disruption caused by the rise of social media, polarization, and loss of faith in traditional institutions. Despite these challenges, The New York Times has thrived by adopting a comprehensive digital strategy that includes reaching a global audience of over 10 million subscribers.

Stevenson discussed how traditional news models have been affected by the decline of local journalism, the collapse of business models for many newspapers, and the impact of new technology. While journalism itself is flourishing, the business of newspapers remains under strain. Local news, essential for accountability, is particularly endangered, with many counties in the U.S. having limited or no access to reliable news sources.

Another core theme was the polarized and tribal nature of today’s society. Stevenson remarked on the fracturing of shared reality, where individuals choose their own facts and news sources, leading to diminished trust in the media. Social media, misinformation, censorship, and political assaults on journalists compound the difficulties in maintaining journalistic integrity. Stevenson emphasized The New York Times’ commitment to independence and to reporting the facts as they are, even when these facts contradict popular narratives or political positions.

Stevenson highlighted the paper’s role in covering major political figures such as Trump and Biden. He explained how the paper has approached covering controversial topics like Biden’s cognitive abilities and Trump’s inflammatory rhetoric, striving to remain factual and analytical.

In addition to its core mission of delivering news, The New York Times has expanded into areas such as lifestyle, sports, and games, offering content that engages readers across multiple interests. The paper’s acquisition of The Athletic for sports coverage and the popularity of its games, such as Wordle, are key parts of this strategy.

Stevenson expressed optimism about the future of journalism, recognizing the opportunities provided by digital platforms and the broader reach that comes with them. However, he also acknowledged the risks of increasing polarization, tribalism, and the potential erosion of democratic norms if trust in journalism continues to decline. The constant need for reinvention, cultural adaptation, and technological integration remains a challenge for The Times and the news profession as a whole.

The talk concluded with a Q&A session, where Stevenson addressed issues like disinformation, the role of anonymous sources in journalism, and the potential long-term futures for the media industry. He also fielded questions on the relationship between journalism and politics, noting the complexities of media influence in Washington, and the shifting relationship between journalists and political figures who increasingly rely on alternative platforms for communication.

Video Presentation

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