Andrew Warde High School's Classes of 1981 and 1982 to Hold Combined Reunion This Year

Andrew Warde High School's graduating classes of 1981 and 1982 are holding a joint reunion on Saturday, August 15, from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Marriott in Trumbull. The event will include a disc jockey, an open bar, hors d’oeuvres, pasta, and carving stations.

The response has been fairly good to this point, according to Dawn (Anderson) Graham of the class of 1981. "There are 40 attending (that have already paid for tickets), and another 22 that have been invoiced, but have not paid yet," she told me via email. "Several others that I know plan to attend, but haven’t requested tickets yet. I’m thinking we’ll have about 150."

"We decided to do a joint one (reunion) midway between 25 and 30," Peter Bravo, a member of the Warde class of 1981, told me via email. "Dawn and Keith Anderson (1982) are doing most of the planning. I am doing the slide show, (and) other people are going to be greeters."

"There was a 25-year reunion for the class of ’82, but the last reunion for the class of ’81 was the 20-year," added Dawn. "Keith Anderson has been involved in organizing the last several reunions for the class of ’82, but we have had different people organize each reunion for the class of ’81, so it has been difficult to keep a list of contact information, until now." Click the image below to visit the class of 1982 Web site.

Dawn said both classes have remained very close, and that's the main reason for the combined reunion. "The reason we are having the reunion on an odd year is that people from the two classes haven’t seen each other for over 27 years, and we were ready to do something about it and just got it going!"

The cost of the event is $85 per person. However, classmates may purchase tickets at a discounted rate of $75 per person before April 30. To purchase tickets, send an email to Dawn with your full name and your guest's full name. You will receive a Pay Pal invoice, which will allow you to pay securely by credit card. For more information and email addresses, click the image below to visit the reunion Web page.

A block of hotel rooms is available for those attending the event at a discounted rate of $99 per night. Keith and Dawn will be hosting a party in a hospitality suite at the Marriott once the reunion is over. The party will start after 11 o'clock.

Bravo, a 24-year veteran of the Fairfield police department, said he will always consider himself a Crimson Eagle. "Of course I am still loyal to Warde," he admitted. "My work has brought me back there many times over the past 24 years."

The happily-married father of three also shared a story about one of his return visits to Warde. "(As a) matter of fact, in 1991, I was there in the summertime and found my old locker and opened it," Bravo related. "(It) had the same combination and I remembered it! You'd think I would have done better in school with a memory like that!"

Dawn is still very much connected to Warde, too. "I have two relatives who work at the school, and my niece is a student there," she wrote. "I was there last November when I was up in Fairfield for a visit. My dad was a housemaster at Warde, and he had started a Warde Hall of Fame, highlighting students that had attended Warde and became famous. A few that I know are John Mayer (musician), J. J. Henry (golfer) and (James Blake) a tennis player."

Best of luck to the Andrew Warde High School classes of 1981 and 1982.

Paul

Please sign the AWHS Guest Book.

Visit the Andrew Warde High School Gift Shop.

Watch the AWHS 1976 vintage "film".

Distinguished AWHS Class of 1959 Grad Shares Memories of School's Early Days, Storybook Romance, and Plans for 50-Year Reunion

Former Fairfield Police Captain Bob Comers is eagerly looking forward to his 50-year high school reunion. The Andrew Warde High School Class of 1959 product and his wife, Mickie, are co-chairs of the event, which is scheduled August 22, from 6 to 11 p.m. at Tashua Knolls in Trumbull.

Comers was a member of the third graduating class at Andrew Warde High School, pictured at its 40-year reunion below, and the last class at Warde with roots to Roger Ludlowe High School. The 43-year police department veteran attended Ludlowe during his freshman year in 1955-56, but found himself at the sparkling new public high school on Melville Avenue at the start of his sophomore year in the Fall of 1956.

"Both my wife, Mickie, and I did attend Ludlowe as freshmen," he wrote to me via email. "We went double sessions. Freshmen and sophomores went in the afternoon, (and) it was dark when we left school. Seniors and juniors went in the morning." Ludlowe, which was then located in what is now Tomlinson Middle School, was terribly overcrowded, and that led to the opening of Warde on the other side of town.

Fellow classmate Jane Servadio, who is also helping with the reunion, doesn't have fond memories of her freshman year at Roger Ludlowe. "Actually, I think that was the worst year of my life," she wrote via email. "I was in the afternoon shift at Ludlowe and got home after dark every day! It was really miserable. I was really glad to get to Warde even though the school wasn't actually finished when we started."

"We were excited about going to a new school," admitted Comers (pictured in the 1959 Flame yearbook at left), who retired from the Fairfield police department January 31 of this year. "It wasn't finished when we got there, but it didn't seem to interfere with us going to class. It was great to be in a brand new school. I don't know if the Ludlowe kids were envious or not, but I imagine they were.

"What I remember most was how big and spread out the new building was compared to Ludlowe. You had to really hustle to get from one class to another."

Servadio added that portions of the school weren't completed when Warde opened in 1956. "The gym wasn't finished," she pointed out. "The same for the cafeteria. Wiring was sticking out of all the walls in the halls."

As for the budding rivalry between the young Crimson Eagles and the established Flying Tigers? "The rivalry was friendly as I recall but somewhat intense," said Comers. "If there was any animosity, there wasn't much that I recall."

He and his wife, the former Mickie Buchino (pictured in the 1959 Flame yearbook at left), actually knew each other in high school, but it wasn't until fate brought them together many years later that they eventually married. "Mickie and I were classmates and we did know each other," he wrote.

"I thought she was very special, and I had a crush on her in high school. I was too shy to say anything to her, so we never dated or anything like that. She had a boyfriend whom she married after she graduated."

Many years later, after Mickie's husband passed away, Comers accidentally crossed paths with his high school crush. "We met at the Trumbull Mall," he continued. "She was working evenings at 'Glamour Shots,' and I went there to get a gift certificate for one of my daughter's friends," he said.

"She just happened to have brought her yearbook to work that day and was showing it to her co-workers. When I walked in she told them, 'See that guy? I went to school with him and here is his picture.' She then came up and spoke to me. I then learned of her husband's passing."

Comers went to the mall and saw her a second time. "We talked, and I spent her coffee break with her. We started dating, and slowly our friendship grew and turned into love for one another. We will have been married nine years this June. I am glad I got over my shyness. We are very happy, and she makes my life wonderful." They have five children and nine grandchildren between the two of them.

Mickie Buchino Sutay-Comers has four grandsons, ages 19, 14, 12 and 11, and one granddaughter, eight. "On June 9, 1959, while everyone was practicing for graduation, I was in Hartford taking my State Board Exam for hairdressing," she wrote. "On July 1, 2009, I will celebrate 50 years as a employeed stylist. Bob and I are sharing a wonderful life," she continued. "We have become quite a team. He's a great guy. Thank you, fate!"

Needless to say, many of their former classmates were happy for both of them at the last reunion ten years ago. "Our last reunion was our 40th," he pointed out. "It was held at Penfield II in Fairfield. Mickie and I were engaged at the time, and it sure turned some heads when we showed up together. Everyone congratulated us and was very happy for us."

Comers said both he and his wife stay in touch with a few former classmates. He also shares the sentiments of the Andrew Warde High School alumni. "I still have a sense of loyalty to Warde, but I wish they had changed the name back to Andrew Warde and brought back the original mascot," he wrote. "Ludlowe could have done the same."

For more information about the Andrew Warde High School Class of 1959 50-year reunion, visit the class homepage at http://www.andrewwarde50threunion.myevent.com, or contact Bob Comers at rcomers@optonline.net.

Best wishes to the Andrew Warde High School Class of 1959! May they have a wonderful 50-year reunion.

Paul

Please sign the AWHS Guest Book.

Visit the Andrew Warde High School Gift Shop.

Watch the AWHS 1976 vintage "film".

Andrew Warde and Roger Ludlowe High Schools Formed an Inter-School Council to Promote a Friendly Rivalry 50 Years Ago This Weekend

The formation of the Andrew Warde and Roger Ludlowe inter-school council to promote a friendly rivalry between the two Fairfield high schools was announced 50 years ago this weekend, according to a story which appeared in the Bridgeport Sunday Post, April 19, 1959 --- exactly a half-century ago today!

Five members were selected to the council from each school. They included Andrew Marak, Joyce Kamens, Laura MacKenzie, David Hartt, and Jan Howard from Ludlowe, and Norman Knott, Blanche LeBel, Richard Greenberg, Sandy Hobson, and David Kinsman from Warde.

Greenberg was elected president, and Marak was tabbed as vice president and treasurer. Kamens was the recording secretary, and LeBel was the corresponding secretary.

In addition to promoting a friendly rivalry, the council hoped to organize inter-school activities, dances, exchange assemblies, follow through on a code of good sportsmanship, and seek solutions to mutual problems.

Among the suggestions which were considered were a Thanksgiving Day football game between the two schools, a driver education campaign, inter-school sports day, inter-school decathlon, community projects, a play, and mayor-for-the-day project.

Do you recall any similar organizations during your days at Andrew Warde High School? Were there any clubs or groups which consisted of members from both schools? Let me know.

On a related note, the members of the Andrew Warde High School Class of 1959 will celebrate their 50-year reunion this year and are seeking classmates. For details, contact Jane Sullivan Servadio at janerino@optonline.net or Darlene Devaux Bradley at 386-9122.

Paul

Please sign the AWHS Guest Book.

Visit the Andrew Warde High School Gift Shop.

Watch the AWHS 1976 vintage "film".

Andrew Warde High School's Baseball Team Made Headlines With Back-to-Back Season-Opening Wins over Arch-Rival Ludlowe on This Date in History

Andrew Warde High School's Crimson Eagles opened their 1965 baseball season with a 5-3 victory over cross-town rival Roger Ludlowe in the feature game of a sparse scholastic schedule Wednesday afternoon, April 14, 1965.

Warde southpaw Dick Balek was outstanding for the triumphant host Eagles. He tossed a four-hitter while striking out 11 Tigers. In addition, Balek also starred offensively by delivering a two-run single during a three-run uprising in the second inning.

Ludlowe, though, drew first blood in the contest by plating two runs in the top of the first inning on a walk, a wild pitch, and singles by Gary Klahr and losing pitcher Gene Radomski. The Tigers added their other tally in the seventh frame on a single, a dropped fly ball, and a force out.

Warde erased the early 2-0 deficit in the home second inning. A single by Bob Scinto, a bunt safety by John Curley, and a fielder's choice on Ray Larsen's bunt preceded Balek's two-run single. The third run of the rally scored on Bill Dobi's forceout grounder.

Warde added two more runs in the fifth inning. Bruce Bernhard doubled, Clint Baye singled and took second on a passed ball, and both runners scored on Curley's second single of the game.

One year later, on the same date, April 14, 1966, the Crimson Eagles did it again. Pat McDonough bested Bill Seres in an exciting pitcher's duel as the Crimson Eagles edged the Flying Tigers, 2-1, in an FCIAC season-opening baseball game at Sturges Field in Fairfield.

According to an article which appeared The Bridgeport Post, Warde's McDonough and Ludlowe's Seres were both sharp on the mound as neither allowed an earned run. However, McDonough, a senior righthander, gained the victory by allowing only five hits and striking out 14.

The winners tallied both of their runs in the fourth inning when Bart Waldman was safe on a throwing error which enabled him to advance to second base. McDonough promptly helped his own cause with an RBI single. Frank Filippone brought McDonough all the way around when he hit a soft dribbler in front of the plate, and the catcher threw wildly to first base.

The hosts cut the deficit in half in the bottom of the fourth inning. Paul Mayer advanced to second base when Warde shortstop Waldman overthrew first base after fielding a ground ball. John White followed with a single to plate Mayer with Ludlowe's lone run. Overall, Ludlowe outhit Warde, five to three.

If you were a member of either or both teams, I'd like to hear from you. If you enjoy reading about Andrew Warde High School's rich history, please let me know. I'd appreciate a note or comment on the Guest Book. Thank you.

Paul

Please sign the AWHS Guest Book.

Visit the Andrew Warde High School Gift Shop.

Watch the AWHS 1976 vintage "film".

'Warde Day 2009' Celebrates Cultural Diversity & Traditions at Fairfield Warde High School

The following story was written by Genevieve Reilly, a staff writer for the Connecticut Post, and was published April 10. What activities or special events do you remember vividly from your days at Warde, and can you recall anything as significant as Warde Day 2009?

Fiona Haborak jumped off the blue and gold "chariot" when her trip around the Fairfield Warde High School courtyard came to an end. "That was awesome!" Haborak exulted as she ran to her friend, Sara Detrik.

The chariot rides for $1 were among the many activities being offered throughout the school Thursday as part of Warde Day 2009, a celebration of cultural diversity and traditions. Senior Mattias Mirabile, 17, gave a chariot ride to Italian teacher Marylyn Giacinto, above, in the courtyard of Warde. "If I could, I'd do it all day," he said. "It's such a nice day out. It's perfect toga weather."

Students toting small bowls of pasta or rice could learn about teaching English in Prague, a sister school project in Zimbabwe, or Chinese culture, to name a few of the presentations.

Back in the courtyard, members of the Latin Club were manning the human-powered chariot, which club members built for the annual Latin Day competition, according to Kate Cordone, 17, the club's president. "There'll be different kids pulling it," Cordone said, "and they'll all be wearing tunics."

Detrik and Haborak, both 15, easily declared the chariot rides their favorite activity of the day. "There's a lot of good food, but the chariot ride is the best," Haborak said. "It makes you happy inside." Both said the Warde Day events give students a chance to experience other cultures, rather than just reading about them in a book.

In the photo below, Seniors Jaime Bernstein and Aquiles Gallardo, center, and their classmates practiced the merengue during a salsa dancing class.

Meanwhile, in the gym, Elena Pannikoda and Ashley Pallathra were making sure things were all set for their Indian dance and fashion show. The two 17-year-olds both said they have been dancing for a while.

Decked out in traditional Indian garb with tinkling bells around their ankles, Pallathra said, "It's a good time and we're really proud of our culture. We love sharing it with everyone."

In the library, students followed the step-by-step instructions from math teacher Jaclyn Otterspoor as they folded small white pieces of paper that would become part of an origami flag quilt.

At one table, a group of seniors mixed their paper folding with talk of college. "My lines are all messed up," said Rachel Friedman. "How is there still room to fold?" wondered Amanda Sims. "I got it!" Sabrina Sicialiano proudly proclaimed.

Now that the folding was done, the students had to pick a nation's flag to draw on a small square of paper that would be attached to their origami. Otterspoor urges them to pick a country from the list she passed around, which represents the ethnic heritage of all the students in the school.

"In my four classes, we had over 40 countries; now, I think it's up to about 70," she said. When the flag quilt is done, Otterspoor said, it will be hung near the front entrance of the school. "Hopefully, as the years go on, we'll add more," she said.

Please sign the AWHS Guest Book.

Visit the Andrew Warde High School Gift Shop.

Watch the AWHS 1976 vintage "film".

Start of Scholastic Baseball Season Rekindles Memories of Crimson Eagles' Nine 35 Years Ago

The Fairfield Warde varsity baseball team opens its season tomorrow afternoon when the Mustangs host Staples High School in Fairfield at 3:30 p.m. Warde plays a 20-game schedule this year, including a matchup at Ludlowe on Monday, May 11, at 4:30 p.m. The game will be played at Kiwanis Field since the Falcons do not have a baseball field on campus.

The season, which lasts six weeks, concludes on Thursday, May 21, with a game at Greenwich. The Mustangs are looking to get off to a good start, much like their counterparts at Warde some 35 years ago. The 1974 edition of the Andrew Warde High School baseball team opened its season on the road with a victory against league rival Stamford Catholic.

Dave Horvath scattered three hits and struck out nine to lead Warde to a 5-1 win over the host Crusaders in the FCIAC opener for both schools Monday afternoon, April 15, 1974, in Stamford. Horvath, a senior righthander, issued only two walks in going the distance for the victorious Crimson Eagles.

Horvath was staked to an early 1-0 lead on an RBI single by Bob Cleveland in the second inning. With two out, Tim Walsh walked and moved to third base on a pair of errors before Cleveland's run-scoring safety. The Eagles plated their second run off Crusaders' starter and loser Mikey DeLeo an inning later. Dave Favale led off with a double and raced home on a two-out single by Ron DelBianco.

Warde secured the victory with a three-run uprising in the sixth inning to increase its lead to 5-0. With one out, Walsh walked and trotted home on Jeff Hannon's three-bagger to right field. Cleveland followed with his second RBI single to drive home Hannon, and Cleveland eventually scored on the second of Favale's two hits.

Stamford Catholic, 0-2 overall, averted a whitewash in the bottom of the sixth inning when it nicked Horvath for its only run. With one out, Mike Cerulli reached on a two-base error when his routine grounder to shortstop was thrown away, and Joe Lorenti walked with two outs. Vito Melli followed with a double to plate Cerulli with the Crusaders' lone tally.

Here's hoping the Mustangs have a season-opening win against the Wreckers. Good luck to the Warde baseball team this season!

Paul

Please sign the AWHS Guest Book.

Visit the Andrew Warde High School Gift Shop.

Watch the AWHS 1976 vintage "film".