To the editor:
So who knows Darien Best??? As winners of the Darien Youth Commission’s second Annual Darien Dash, apparently Jim O’Brien, Kiera O’Brien, Whitney Scallon, Sophia Condon & Lindsey Turner do!

Photo from Darien Youth Commission
Pictured are the winners of the 2018 Darien Dash. 1st place team: Whitney Scallon, Kiera O’Brien, Jim O’Brien, Sophia Condon and Lindsey Turner.
The second annual community-wide scavenger hunt included many elements. Some of the expected components were: puzzle solving; geographical planning & mapping; and photography.
Some of the unexpected elements included good, clean competition; intergenerational cooperation; a whole lot of smiles, reflection & fun! The event, which took place on Saturday, March 10 started at the Darien Town Hall and ended with a reception at the Depot Teen Center.

Pictured are the winners of the 2018 Darien Dash 2nd place team: Craig Motz, Oliver Barkley and Christine Barkley.
Second place bragging rights belong to the Barkley family with the Hyatt family claiming third place.
Thanks to the students on the DYC whose vision and hard work culminated with a terrifically fun community event. Thanks to Diane Farrell of Farrell Marketing and Media for her expert guidance in once again promoting the event.

Third place team winners of the 2018 Darien Dash: Emily Hyatt, Reagan Hyatt and Alan Hyatt.
A huge shout-out to the following merchants who participated: Espresso Neat; Darien Diner; Barrett Bookstore; Palmer’s; Nielsen’s; Mama Carmela’s; Louie’s Italian Restaurant; Darien Doughnut; Darien Ice Rink; Chocolate Works; Everything’s Rosie; Wild Birds Unlimited; The Goose; Bertucci’s; Danny’s Cycles; Grieb’s Pharmacy; Jennifer’s Kitchen; Embody Café; Hands on Pottery; Johnny’s & Company; Burgers, Shakes & Fries; Driftwood Diner; the Dock Shop; Beadworks; & Uncle’s Deli (who ALSO provided gift certificates for each member of the winning team).
And finally, a special thank you to the Depot for again hosting the reception at the end of the event. Was a great opportunity while points were being calculated for participants to compare notes and strategies, share in a “debrief” of sorts and enjoy each other’s company.
Be certain to keep our third Annual Darien Dash (March 2019) on your radar. The only way you lose is by NOT participating!
Alicia Sillars ~ Youth Director ~ Darien Youth Commission