Longtime gratitude for West Haven teachers

I would like to take this opportunity to sing the praises of two local resources. As we get into our later years, it’s easy to reflect on what made you who you are, and where it has taken you. I’m remembering two teachers I met while in the West Haven School System. I met Dr. Louis Negri in seventh grade at EC Stiles school. He took over teaching music there, then moved on to the high school and many other local venues. After falling head over heels in crush with him, as did every other girl in the school, you had to realize he was cool, moody, aloof, and a terrific musician. In high school, I took an English class from Dr. Dino Ciaburri. The first time I saw his baby grand piano and heard him play, I realized that he taught English, but loved music. He also has remained local with his teaching and music mentoring. I know that both these men have had health challenges in recent years, and none of us are getting any younger. I just wanted to say what a gift it has been that the New Haven area has kept these talented and devoted musicians to help grow and develop so many programs and so many remarkable and grateful students. The contribution I most appreciate from both is that they did not just teach music, rather they taught passion. Music still makes me smile, and sometimes I sing in the car; but passion has taught me how to be myself, to know joy, and to share. I hope to see them both in another two years at my 50th class reunion! Thank you so much to both for all these years I’ve had to appreciate what you really shared with us. — Nancy Held Adams Prineville, Oregon WHHS class of ’69