2003 Barnum Festival Ringmaster Len Berger

Receives His Official Symbols of Office at Whip, Whistle and Watch Luncheon 

BRIDGEPORT, May 16, 2003 - Len Berger officially took over the reins of the Barnum Festival as he received the official symbols of his office at the annual Whip, Whistle and Watch Luncheon May 16 at the Holiday Inn in Bridgeport.

In addition, Berger unveiled the winning name of the Festival's Name-the-Elephant contest - "Spirit," which was submitted by Jim Money of Bridgeport. The Festival introduced a new Elephant mascot in March and invited the public of all ages to submit names. The winner will receive a special Festival package of prizes.

Berger, Vice President and Senior Business Development Officer for Fleet Community Bank in Bridgeport, received the whip from Allan Berger, his brother at the sold out event that drew about 500 supporters.

Allan said the whip, the symbol of command, was appropriate for his brother because he always was in charge in the family because he was older. Allan recalls his brother taking him downtown Bridgeport to ride the escalators and browse in Mooney's Sporting Goods. "Len is always Mr. Positive, Allan said. "He's dependable, focused and will keep the Festival moving forward."

Patricia Profeta, Senior Vice President District Manager of Fleet Community Bank will present the whistle, the symbol of attention. She described Berger as her role model on the job. "What I like about Len is he's never unhappy. He has a great sense of humor and a pleasure to work with."

Mayor John Fabrizi handed over P.T. Barnum watch to Berger to remind him to be on time for the more than 35 Festival events throughout the year. "The Festival puts a lot of smiles on people's faces," Fabrizi said. "It does some tremendous things and Len will continue to maintain the Festival's great tradition."

Berger's motto for the 2003 Barnum Festival is the celebration of family, friends and traditions. Berger, a Shelton resident, is the 55th Ringmaster, who has been involved in the Festival for more than 25 years.

Berger said he was delighted to accept the whip, whistle and watch and looked forward to the 2003 Barnum Festival.

"This is when all the fun begins," Berger said. "All the planning and hard work done by the Barnum committees through the winter now pays off in all the Festival events. I'm honored to be a part of this great tradition and helping to create a spirit of community."

Bishop William E. Lori gave the Benediction and Rev. Brian Schofield-Bodt, Pastor of Goldenhill Methodist Church in Bridgeport offered the Invocation.