Eduardo Ramos

Eduardo Ramos, 50, of Horseshoe Lane in Westport, entered into his ex-girlfriend’s Wilton home on June 20 without permission and struck her with her own web-cam, according to a police report.

Using a set of keys, police said, Ramos entered through the front door.

In doing so, he violated a protective order issued in response to a similar incident that occurred May 27, in which Ramos entered without permission, pushed his ex-girlfriend down and grabbed and broke her glasses, resulting in disorderly conduct and criminal trespassing charges. Ramos reportedly has a child with the woman, and visits his son at the Wilton home the son shares with his mother.

When Ramos went to the house on June 20, he went into his ex-girlfriend’s bedroom and found her sitting at her computer. He grabbed her web-cam and threw it at her head, police said.

Ramos fled the scene shortly after.

When police responded around 1:51 a.m., they asked the woman if they could use her phone to contact Ramos. She complied. They asked Ramos if he would come down to the station. He complied.

Ramos was charged with burglary 1st, disorderly conduct, and violation of a protective order. He was released on $1,000 bond and had a court date of June 22.

Police conducted what are known as “deterrent runs” in the victim’s neighborhood several times a night for several days after the incident.

The Wilton Police Department is within the town hall complex at 240 Danbury Road. The number to call for routine matters is 203-834-6260.

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To the Editors:

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Bennett Cancer Center’s beloved Walk & Run — the signature event of the year-round Hope in Motion fund-raising initiative. Nearly 5,000 community members — including many from Wilton — came together on National Cancer Survivor’s Day to participate in our annual event, support those who have been touched by cancer and remember those who have lost their battle. To date, the event has raised over $833,000 of its $1 million goal.

All of the funds raised through this and other Hope in Motion events remain at the Bennett Cancer Center, and directly support the multitude of vital programs and services offered to our patients and their families. Our supportive care programs include an integrative medicine program (massage, Reflexology, Reiki, yoga and Tai Chi); individual, family and group counseling; exercise programs; nutritional counseling; and survivorship programs. Having served as director of the Bennett Cancer Center since the event’s inception in 1995, I have witnessed how these important programs make a real difference in the lives of our patients.

On behalf of the physicians and staff at the Bennett Cancer Center, as well as our 2015 event organizers, I would like to thank all of our committee members and volunteers who provided us with countless hours of hard work and dedication. In addition, we could not have such a successful event year after year without the continued and generous support of our sponsors. But most of all, we would like to extend our most sincere thanks and appreciation to all of those who joined us this past Sunday — friends, family and survivors — you truly put “hope in motion.”

See you all next year!

Liz Manfredo
Director, Cancer Services, Bennett Cancer Center
Stamford Hospital
Stamford, June 15

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The fourth annual Wilton Street Fair will take place at the Wilton Center on Saturday, July 18, from 10 to 4.

Retailers, artisans, restaurants, businesses, and local organizations from will come together to showcase their products and services.

Shoppers can end their day by heading to the gazebo, on the Wilton Town Green, and catching some of the entertainment, live demonstrations, and family activities provided by the Wilton Chamber of Commerce. There will be a live petting zoo, balloon characters and entertainment from the popular clown, Mr. Bungles, carnival games, and more for the kids.

Information: wiltonchamber.com.

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It wasn’t on the agenda, and no one really planned for it to happen, but last Thursday night’s Board of Ed meeting turned out to be a celebration of sorts, of all the wonderful things happening in our schools. I think it’s worth a minute to share what we experienced.

First, the evening began with a gallery of presentations from fifth grade and eighth grade students that was set up in the Wilton High School library. There were about 15 presentations in all. For each, a team of students identified “a problem,” and then detailed how they went about conducting research to guide them in developing a solution. To do this, students had to invoke all their educational tools — technology, math, science, social studies and writing. Whereas in the past, what a student learned in math pretty much stayed in the math classroom, and the same for every other course, today’s learning is based on cross-disciplinary models, where all learning is used all the time.

One group of Cider Mill students, for example, chose “too many inactive kids at recess” as their topic. They thoroughly researched the subject — why kids don’t get engaged in games or active playtime, the negative impact on health and well-being, and some ideas for encouraging students to get involved. The students interviewed a school climate expert, and had an iPad available so we could see the interview. Their recommendation? Initiate a program of organized activities during the recess period.

No doubt Cider Mill Principal Jen Mitchell and her team will take a close look at that recommendation!

You will be hearing more about this type of integrated instruction, because it really is a transformative approach to learning that will be used more extensively throughout our schools.

Next up on our agenda was a “poem recitation” by Middlebrook student Pierce Bazewicz.  Pierce gave a dramatic reading of a fabulous poem he wrote called “Ode to Clash of Clans,” which detailed his journey through the various levels of his favorite video game. It was incredibly well done, and Pierce just might have a career ahead of himself as a poet. But what really struck me was that Pierce was joined in his presentation by his English teacher, Suzanne Sedlak.

Sedlak introduced Pierce and explained how she had attended a professional development conference last year at Columbia University’s Teacher’s College, and learned about various ways to engage students in literacy. Sedlak’s pride in her student was very plain to see, and really, that’s what it’s all about: A teacher and student presenting a project and sharing their obvious joy of learning.

We also engaged in the year-end tradition of receiving school yearbooks from each building.  Every year the books become even more professional looking, and more creative than the year before! This year’s high school yearbook expanded on the use of “augmented reality” technology, whereby videos have been linked to photographs throughout the book, that can be activated via an app-enabled phone. It’s something you might expect to see in a college-level or professionally done publication, but our yearbook looks stunning, and I congratulate everyone involved.

Aside from these student-led presentations, the board approved several new courses for Wilton High School that will be offered beginning in the fall:

• Computer Animation and Game Design;

• Farm to Table Culinary Arts;

• Multivariable Calculus (college level course that will allow students to go beyond curriculum currently offered);

• AP Calculus BC (restructuring of current course offering).

Finally, I want to comment on a report we received from our principals and administrators about the progress made this year in working toward our “district vision and goals.” If you aren’t aware of the vision and goals that were developed by Superintendent Smith and the Board, I urge you to visit the district website and spend a few minutes reviewing them. They really are the roadmap we have established for our schools, and for giving our students the absolute best education, bar none.

With this in mind, it was inspiring to hear our principals talk about the work accomplished in each school this year. A common theme seemed to be “student-led,” and “student engagement.” Long gone are the days when teachers would stand at the front of a classroom and lecture. As Miller-Driscoll Assistant Principal Jeremy Cross described the environment in his building: “There’s definitely a buzz in the air, and it’s very exciting.”

We’ll spend the summer continuing to build on this positive momentum. As always, I encourage all parents and community members to share their thoughts.

Best wishes for a happy and healthy summer.

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The Bulletin Board is a guide to events of public interest happening in Wilton designed to let you know what’s happening and when, and to help schedule important events. Submissions may be emailed to editor@wiltonbulletin.com by 5 p.m. Wednesday the week before intended publication. The full listings are posted at wiltonbulletin.com.

Kiwanis Club Food Drive, Friday, June 26, 11-3. Members of the club will be at Stop & Shop on River Road and Village Market on Old Ridgefield Road collecting non-perishables for the Wilton Food Pantry.

Tales to Tails, Saturday, June 27, 11-noon, Wilton Library. Children who are shy but independent readers may read out loud to therapy dogs. Free, registration required. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Kiwanis Club Food Drive, Saturday, June 27, 11-3. Members of the club will be at Stop & Shop on River Road and Village Market on Old Ridgefield Road collecting non-perishables for the Wilton Food Pantry.

Take Part in Art, Saturday, June 27, 1-4, Weir Farm National Historic Site, 735 Nod Hill Road. Discover your inner artist while painting en plein air with watercolors supplied by Weir Farm. Instructional available. All ages. Free. Information: nps.gov/wefa or 203-834-1896.

Read with Matt Davies, Saturday, June 27, 2-3:30, Wilton Library. The Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist will draw, answer questions and read from his new book Ben Draws Trouble. Families welcome, registration required. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Kiwanis Club Food Drive, Sunday, June 28, 11-3. Members of the club will be at Stop & Shop on River Road and Village Market on Old Ridgefield Road collecting non-perishables for the Wilton Food Pantry.

Car Show, Sunday, June 28, 2-4 p.m., The Greens at Cannondale, 435 Danbury Road. Trophies awarded, hot dogs and ice cream, musical entertainment. RSVP by June 24: 203-761-1191.

Exploring the Five Senses, Monday, June 29, 4-4:45, Wilton Library. The last of a five-week exploration of the senses for children in grades 1-3. This week: smell. Free, registration required. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Author Talk, Tuesday, June 30, 7-8:30 p.m., Wilton Library. Beatriz Williams discusses a story of politics and past secrets that takes place during the summer on Cape Cod. Q&A and book signing. Free, registration highly recommended. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Music on the Hill Summer Chorus, Tuesday, June 30, 7-9 p.m., St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 48 New Canaan Road. Rehearsals begin for music of J. S. Bach and continue Tuesdays and Thursdays through July. Concert, with soloists and chamber orchestra, will be Thursday, July 30 at 8, also at St. Matthew’s. New singers, including high school students, welcome.  $40 suggested minimum contribution. Advance registration required: ellen@musiconthehillCT.org or 203-529-3133.

New Yorker Shorts, Wednesday, July 1, noon-1:30, Wilton Library. New this summer is Six Stories in Six Weeks with Susan Boyar, discussions of six short stories published in The New Yorker magazine. Meets through Aug. 5. Story titles announced one week ahead. Bring lunch, beverages provided. Registration suggested. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Author Talk, Thursday, July 2, 7-8:30 p.m., Wilton Library. Candace Bushnell, author of Sex and the City, will discuss her latest book, Killing Monica. Q&A and book signing. Free. Registration highly recommended. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Robert the Guitar Guy, Friday, July 3, 11-11:30, Wilton Library. Music, props and dance entertain children 2-6. Free, registration recommended. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Freedom Run Road Race, Friday, July 4, 8:30 a.m., Wilton High School Track, 395 Danbury Road. 5K race. Fees: $10/14 and younger, $20/15 and older. Entry form: wiltonct.org.

Wilton Family YMCA Open House, Saturday, July 4, 10-4, YMCA, 404 Danbuary Road. Free access to the outdoor pool, pond and beach area, children’s splash pool, fitness center, gym, and outdoor playgrounds.

Fourth of July Fireworks, Saturday, July 4, 9:30 p.m., Danbury Road. Festivities begin at 2:30 with annual Republicans vs. Democrats softball game; music begins at 5 with Shadow Act; Sheltered Dogs at 6, Eight to the Bar at 8. Fireworks at approximately 9:30, more music at 10. In the vicinity of Wilton High School athletic fields. Informtion: wiltonct.org.

Embroidered Tea Towels, Monday, July 6, 10-11:30, Wilton Library. Students entering sixth and seventh grade, and others, may learn to use the library’s electronic sewing machine. Must have Connecticut library card and signed Innovation Station agreement. Two students per session. Registration required. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Flower Pots & Plants, Tuesday, July 7, 3-4:30, Wilton Library. Teens entering grades 6-12 may decorate flower pots with paints decoupage, ceramics and more. Space limited; registration required. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Maximizing Social Security Benefits, Tuesday, July 7, 7-8:30 p.m., Wilton Library. Understand the key concepts and learn strategies to boost lifetime benefits. Financial advisers Michael Alimo and David Weyner will speak. Free, registration recommended. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

New Yorker Shorts, Wednesday, July 8, noon-1:30, Wilton Library. New this summer is Six Stories in Six Weeks with Susan Boyar, discussions of six short stories published in The New Yorker magazine. Meets through Aug. 5. Story titles announced one week ahead. Bring lunch, beverages provided. Registration suggested. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Monogrammed Bookmarks, Coasters & More, Wednesday, July 8, 3-4:30. Students entering sixth and seventh grade, and others, may learn to use Tinkercad to design a 3D bookmark, coaster, luggage tag or coin holder. Must have Connecticut library card and signed Innovation Station agreement. Eight students per session. Registration required. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Summer Movies, Thursday, July 9, Wilton Library. Disney Nature: Monkey Kingdom (G) will be shown from 10:15 to noon; SpongeBob: Sponge out of Water (PG) will be shown from 2 to 3:30. Free, no registration. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Summer Poetry, Thursday, July 9, 10:30-noon, Wilton Library. Judson Scruton leads an exploration of Shelley and Keats during their “Annus Mirabilis” of 1819. Poetry packets available at front desk one week before seminar begins. Free, advance registration required. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Summer Barbecue Invitations, Thursday, July 9, 2-3:30, Wilton Library. Students in sixth and seventh grade, and others, may learn to use the die cutter to create invitations with pizzazz. Must have Connecticut library card and signed Innovation Station agreement. Two students per session. Registration required. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Summer Music and More Concert Series, Thursday, July 9, 5-6:30, Wilton Library. The Blue Sky Band recreates the sounds of the acoustic 60s in the Brubeck Room. Rain or shine. Free, wine provided by Michael Crystal. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Mini Maker Camp, Friday, July 10, 10-noon, Wilton Library. Children in fifth and sixth grade will make rockets and launch them. Exploration of physics by making Heron’s Fountains. Free, registration required. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Annual Summer Show Exhibition Reception, Friday, July 10, 6-7:30 p.m., Wilton Library. The work of more than 50 Wilton artists will be on display. Show runs through Aug. 13. Open to the public. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Wilton Kiwanis Geeb Fleming Memorial Cruise Night, Friday, July 10, 6 p.m., Piersall Building parking lot, Center Street. Exotic, custom, vintage and antique cars, as well as hot rods, invited to be on display. Hamburgers, hot dogs and ice cream. Rain date is June 17.

Monogrammed Bookmarks, Coasters & More, Wednesday, July 13, 3-4:30. Students entering sixth and seventh grade, and others, may learn to use Tinkercad to design a 3D bookmark, coaster, luggage tag or coin holder. Must have Connecticut library card and signed Innovation Station agreement. Eight students per session. Registration required. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Decorative Plates Drop-in Craft, Tuesday, July 14, 11-1, Wilton Library. Decorate a plate using decoupage. Allow one hour to complete. All ages. No registration, but only while supplies last. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Yoga and Smoothies for Teens, Tuesday, July 14, 3-4:30, Wilton Library. Teens entering grades 6-12 may bring a yoga mat for some poses and then enjoy a fruit smoothie. Registration suggested. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Breast Cancer Survivors’ Support Group, Tuesday, July 14, 6-8 p.m., Wilton Library. A monthly support group for post-treatment cancer survivors presented by the Breast Cancer Survival Center (breastcancersurvival.org) Call Nina Marino at 203-857-7304 with questions. Free, registration highly encouraged. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

New Yorker Shorts, Wednesday, July 15, noon-1:30, Wilton Library. New this summer is Six Stories in Six Weeks with Susan Boyar, discussions of six short stories published in The New Yorker magazine. Meets through Aug. 5. Story titles announced one week ahead. Bring lunch, beverages provided. Registration suggested. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Summer Movies, Thursday, July 16, Wilton Library. Puppy in my Pocket will be shown from 10:15 to 11:15; Paddington (PG) will be shown from 2 to 3:30. Free, no registration. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Summer Poetry, Thursday, July 16, 10:30-noon, Wilton Library. Judson Scruton leads an exploration of Shelley and Keats during their “Annus Mirabilis” of 1819. Poetry packets available at front desk one week before seminar begins. Free, advance registration required. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Summer Music and More Concert Series, Thursday, July 16, 5-6:30, Wilton Library. The 5 O’clocks present rock, dance and blues numbers in the Brubeck Room. Rain or shine. Free, wine provided by Michael Crystal. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Summer Barbecue Invitations, Thursday, July 17, 10-11:30, Wilton Library. Students in sixth and seventh grade, and others, may learn to use the die cutter to create invitations with pizzazz. Must have Connecticut library card and signed Innovation Station agreement. Two students per session. Registration required. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Mini Maker Camp, Friday, July 18, 10-noon, Wilton Library. Children in fifth and sixth grade will make wearable LED tech and explore circuits by making light-up paper crafts. Free, registration required. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Summer Sidewalk Book Sale, Saturday, July 18, 10-4, Wilton Library. Gently used books for beach and vacation reading will be for sale during Wilton’s Sidewalk Sale and Street Fair. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Solder Craft, Monday, July 20, 3:30-5, Wilton Library. Students entering sixth and seventh grade, and others, may learn to solder to make a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry. Must have Connecticut library card and signed Innovation Station agreement. Five students per session. Registration required. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

Art Residence Exhibition/Reception, Monday, July 20, 6-7:30 p.m., Wilton Library. Cuyler Remick is Weir Farm’s artist in residence for July. Free; registration suggested. Information: 203-762-3950 or wiltonlibrary.org.

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Here’s what’s happening in town today, June 25:

• Enhance Fitness at Wilton Senior Center, from 9 to 10.

• Yoga at Wilton Senior Center, from 10 to 11.

• Lunch and Bingo at Wilton Meadows Rehabilitation and Health Care Center at 11:30.

• Introduction to Digital Scanning at Wilton Library, from 2 to 3.

• Annual Meeting and Potluck Dinner at 6:30, Wilton Historical Society.

• Board of Education meeting at 7, Wilton High School Professional Library.

• Inland Wetlands Commission meeting at 7:30, town hall annex Room A.

For more things to do, check the Wilton Bulletin Board.

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Peter Verrilli, principal of be3® Marketing Group and Robin Axness, director of development for Wilton Library, show the library’s 2013-2014 Annual Report which received an Honorable Mention during the Connecticut Library Association’s 2015 Publicity Awards program. The report highlights the opening of the library’s Innovation Station maker space as well as the new digital resources and technologies available. It used eye-catching graphics to liven up statistics, real quotes from patrons, and photos of programs and special events. The annual report concept was conceived, created and produced by be3 Marketing, a Wilton company. The narrative copy was written by Kathy Trentos, marketing communications assistant for the library.

Summer Show gets underway

Wilton artists are getting primed for the 71st Annual Wilton Library Summer Show which opens on Friday, July 10, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. In advance of the opening reception, adult Wilton artists are invited to enter up to two pieces of art — paintings, drawings, pastels or sculptures — in the exhibition. Submission dates are Friday, June 26 and Saturday, June 27, from 10 to 4. Forms for entry can be accessed on the library’s website and by clicking on the Call for Entries title on the homepage.  The link provides more information and another link to the actual entry form. Artists are reminded that pieces must be framed and wired for hanging. A portion of the proceeds from sales benefits the library.

Read with a pup

The library’s monthly Tales to Tails takes place this Saturday, June 27, from 11 to noon. This event brings gentle therapy dogs to the library so children can spend quiet time reading to the canines in a controlled environment. The activity helps to build confidence in the reluctant reader. Children may bring one of their favorite books or use suggestions from the library.

The dogs are provided courtesy of ROAR (Ridgefield Operation Animal Rescue). There is no fee but registration is required.

Cartoonist returns to the library

Matt Davies, a Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist, returns to Wilton Library to chat, draw and answer questions about his newest book, Ben Draws Trouble. Read with Matt Davies is Saturday, June 27, from 2 to 3:30. Matt’s character Ben apparently draws his teachers and classmates a little too well for comfort in this follow-up to his previous book, Ben Rides On. Registration is required for this program; families are welcome. Books will be available for purchase and signing.

Author visit in time for summer

New York Times best-selling author Beatriz Williams visits the library on Tuesday, June 30, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. just in time to talk about her latest summer read, Tiny Little Thing. The author of The Secret Life of Violet Grant, A Hundred Summers, and Overseas is back this summer with a story of politics and past secrets that takes place during what should be an idyllic summer on Cape Cod. A Q & A period will follow the talk. Books will be available for purchase and signing courtesy of Elm Street Books. There is no charge. Registration is recommended.

A short program of short stories

Susan Boyar, the professional discussion leader for Wilton Library Readers, is hosting a new twist on book groups with the program, New Yorker Shorts: Six Stories in Six Weeks on Wednesdays, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 and Aug. 5, from noon to 1:30. The short stories to be discussed will be published in The New Yorker magazine over six consecutive weeks. Each session will discuss the previous week’s story.  Beginning July 1, the first story will be from the June 23rd issue. The current issue of The New Yorker is available in the library’s Reading Room for in-library use. Free downloadable formats can be found on Zinio or Overdrive, two digital libraries available through Wilton Library’s website. Participants are welcome to visit the reference librarians to learn how to easily download these magazines on personal devices such as tablets, smartphones or laptops. Participants also are encouraged to bring their lunches; beverages will be provided. Registration is suggested. Let the summer reading begin!

Friends, fashions and fun with Sex and the City author

Candace Bushnell, creator and writer of Sex and the City, on which the hugely popular HBO series and movies were based, will be visiting the library on Thursday, July 2, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. What better way is there to begin the summer break than laughing it up with girlfriends and enjoying this best-selling author? Bushnell, whose other novels include Lipstick Jungle and The Carrie Diaries, now introduces Killing Monica, about an actress who plays the part of a popular character created from a series of books — and who blurs the lines of fiction and reality creating mayhem in the process. The talk will be followed by a Q&A period. There is no charge for the program. Books will be available for purchase and signing courtesy of Elm Street Books. Registration is highly recommended as seats are already filling up fast.

The library will be closing at 5 on July 2 due to the author talk. To register for programs, visit www.wiltonlibrary.org and click on Events or call 203-762-3950, ext. 213 for adult programs, ext. 217 for children’s activities and ext. 243 for teen events. The library is closed Sundays through the summer.

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Having difficulty falling sleep or staying asleep? Did you know that six to seven hours of sleep, not eight hours, is considered optimal; that some of us are born with a “weaker sleep system” but that we can learn how to strengthen our sleep system; that our thoughts and behaviors are the most common cause of sleep disorders and that we can be taught techniques to change these?

Join Cathy Pierce, director of Social Services, and Lauren Hughes, coordinator of Senior Services, for a four-week educational seminar in understanding insomnia and learning how to develop techniques to help improve your sleep.

The initial meeting of the seminar will be on Tuesday, July 14, from 10  to 11:30 in the senior center lounge. The group will meet at the same time on the next three consecutive Tuesdays — July 21, July 28, and Aug. 4 — and will be limited to eight participants.

The seminar will be based on the work of Gregg D. Jacobs, Ph.D, an insomnia specialist from the Sleep Disorder Center at UMass Memorial Medical Center. Jacobs has developed a cognitive behavioral therapy program for treating insomnia and this four-week seminar will draw on his model.

The first session will be focused on sleep education, separating the facts about sleep from popular myths and misconceptions which can be detrimental to a good night’s rest. In the second week, we will address sleep medications and sleep scheduling techniques. Participants will leave with homework in the form of a sleep chart to help track their personal sleep patterns. The third week’s session will cover stimulus control techniques or how to create the optimal internal and external environment for sleep.  In the final session we will cover relaxation and sleep hygiene techniques so you can learn to fall asleep more easily and stay asleep longer.

To enroll please call Sharon Powers at 203-834-6238.

Retirement reception

A reception for Sharon Powers, administrative secretary in Wilton’s Social Services Department, will take place tomorrow, June 26, from noon until 2 at the senior center. A light lunch will be available.  There will be a short program at 1. If you plan to attend, please call today and reserve your place: 203-834-6238.

Weekly activities

Enhance Fitness: Thursday, 9 to 10, $3 drop-in fee. This class includes 30 minutes of endurance-type activity. Leslie Hinshaw, instructor.

Feldenkrais: Friday, 10 to 11, $5 drop-in fee. Explore this exciting and innovative movement method designed to relieve pain, exercise your brain and teach you to move with greater comfort, ease, and fluidity. Cathy Paine, instructor.

Thursday lunch: Most Thursdays at noon, $3. Join other seniors for lunch by Chef Karen White. Seating is limited. Reservations required.

Tai chi: Wednesdays, 10:30 to 11:30, $3 drop-in fee. Tai chi contains a series of gentle and graceful movements performed with respiration coordination and deep concentration. It has been shown to prevent falls and improve the functioning of daily activities. Joe Alampi, instructor.

Bingo: Most Thursdays, 12:45 p.m., 25 cents per card. Winners get “the pot” each game.

Yoga: Tuesdays, 11 to noon,  Thursdays, 10 to 11. There is a $3 drop-in fee. Denise O’Hearn, owner of Vibrant Moves in Wilton, conducts this gentle class that warms up your joints, stretches and strengthens your muscles and helps your balance and focus.

Line Dance Fusion: Mondays, 10:30 to 11:30, $3 drop-in fee. This program blends traditional dance steps with elements of modern line dancing. This is a great form of exercise and social interaction. Beatriz Araujo, instructor.

Open bridge: Wednesdays, 10 to 12:30, $5 drop-in fee. Dan DeVlieg supervises. This is not a sanctioned game.

Coming events

For the week of June 26:

• Friday, June 26, 10, Feldenkrais with Cathy Paine; 12, Bridge with Eleanor Mihailidis; 12, Retirement Reception for Sharon Powers.

• Monday, June 29, 10:30, Line Dance Fusion with Beatriz Araujo; 1, Bridge.

• Tuesday, June 30, 11, Yoga with Denise O’Hearn; 12:30, Mah Jongg; 2, Chair Yoga at Ogden House.

• Wednesday, July 1, 10, Open Bridge; 10:30, Tai Chi with Joe Alampi; 1, Mah Jongg.

• Thursday, July 2, 9, Enhance Fitness with Leslie Hinshaw; 10, Yoga with Denise O’Hearn.

In the course of the renovation project, individual rooms in the senior center and social services wing of the building may, from time to time, become unavailable for public use. All senior programs and the room assignments will be posted at or on the entrance doors. We appreciate your understanding and patience.

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Celebrating Our Lady of Fatima’s graduation are from left, back row, Rev. Reginald Norman, Connor Murray, Robbie Steiwer, John Smith, Scott Dobos, Seamus Carbin and Principal Martha Reitman. In front are Willow Reid, Ellen Fair, Laura Turner, Kayla Lamour, Felicity Lagomarsino, Sabrina Hartz, Oriana DeRosa, Tarryn Trauth and eighth grade homeroom and middle school math specialist Geri Galasso.

Our Lady of Fatima School in Wilton held its commencement exercises on the evening of Friday, June 12.

The event included a mass by Rev. Reginald Norman, a reception, and commencement speakers Sarah and Matthew Fair, graduate parents and former school athletic directors; and Principal Martha Reitman.

Hailing from Easton, Fairfield, Norwalk, Weston, Westport and Wilton, the eighth grade graduates were:

• Seamus Carbin.
• Oriana DeRosa.
• Scott Dobos.
• Ellen Fair.
• Sabrina Hartz.
• Felicity Lagomarsino.
• Kayla Lamour.
• Connor Murray.
• Willow Reid.
• John Smith.
• Robbie Steiwer.
• Tarryn Trauth.
•  Laura Turner.

Annual scholarships were presented as follows:

• Eugene Rooney Award: Tarryn Trauth.
• Home School Association Awards: Tarryn Trauth and Scott Dobos.
• Performing Arts Award: John Smith.
• Jane Ryan Award: Ellen Fair.

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(Jerry Holdridge photo)

Restocking the pantry

Jeff Turner and Ray Tobiassen hold a sign indicating the Wilton Kiwanis Club will hold a food drive this weekend — June 26, 27 and 28 — at the Village Market and Stop & Shop. Members of the club swill be at the markets’ doors from 11 to 3, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. They will be handing out lists of the items most needed by the Wilton Interfaith Food Pantry, which has been closed for a month due to construction at the Comstock Community Center. The pantry serves some 50 Wilton families.

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To the Editors:

Parks and Rec recently purchased a $60,000 TRAX snow-removing machine rather than continue renting one for $3,000 per year. Rather than fix up the tennis courts in Wilton (of which there are few amenities compared to surrounding towns), the Board of Finance and Board of Selectmen approved an asset expenditure with a ROI (Return on Investment) of 20 years. Just another example of highly questionable finances and tax expenditures in Wilton. Now, we are also hearing from Ms. Dennies that the town will end up in the red because of worker compensation claims among other issues.  What will be next?

Kevin Hickey
29 Black Alder Lane, June 22

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Konnected by Carole Eisner.

Wilton Center will get its third piece of sculpture as part of the municipal sculpture program begun last year.

A short ceremony celebrating the installation of Carole Eisner’s welded metal sculpture Konnected will take place Friday, June 26, 11 a.m. on River Road opposite Stop & Shop. The public is invited.

The sculpture by Eisner, who lives in Weston, will be on loan through the collaboration of the artist and Silvermine Arts Center. The artist, who will join in the celebration on Friday, has an extensive portfolio of work over four decades that has been displayed in numerous public parks, corporate plazas, cultural centers and museums throughout the Northeast, as well as in Belgium, France, United Kingdom and Japan.

The town’s sculpture program brought Nurture by Peter Rubino to Wilton last December, and secured Gifford Proctor’s Valley Forge Washington for placement in the Clune Center as soon as funds are raised for its relocation.

The post Sculpture unveiling ceremony Friday appeared first on Wilton Bulletin.

Here’s what’s happening in town today, June 26:

• Feldenkrais at Wilton Senior Center, from 10 to 11.

• VHS-DVD Conversion at Wilton Library, from 10 to 11.

• Sharon’s Retirement Reception at Wilton Senior Center, from noon to 2.

• Bridge at Wilton Senior Center, from noon to 3.

• Free Senior Swim at Wilton Family Y, from 1:30 to 3.

• Children’s Garden Club at Wilton Library, from 4 to 4:45.

For more things to do, check the Wilton Bulletin Board.

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Executive Board President Cooper Pellaton welcoming the graduating seniors, their families and friends.

Good evening, Wilton High School Class of 2015, and welcome friends, family and WHS faculty who’ve come to support all of us on such a momentous occasion in our lives.

My name is Cooper Pellaton and I’ve had the pleasure of serving as the Executive Board president this past year. It’s been a distinct honor to represent the 328 seniors in this class of 2015, the 328 champions of academics, sports and the gamut of other activities we all pursue.

To be quite honest, it’s taken me a while to figure out precisely what I would say here today. It was exactly one year ago today, when we saw the Class of 2014 off, that I resolved I would write the graduation remarks then and be done with it (I had assumed that the year would be very static) and for a while I stuck by that. It wasn’t until a friend remarked on the importance of today that I abandoned that plan…

For many of you, Wilton is the only place you’ve known. For many, your fellow graduates are the people you started your schooling with, and your homes are those to which you’ve always been able to return, and today is the last day that we will all be together (save reunions). It was the emotion (the realization of the importance of this final day) that struck me. It was then that I realized I had to offer something more than a standard address.

I would now like to ask all who join us here today to think on the events of the last four years, whether it be the numerous championships our student athletes won, our academic accomplishments and awards, or the community outreach which we have done. In some way, Wilton High School has empowered us all to achieve success. We were given, or found a way to get, the tools we needed to accomplish some task which we all felt compelled to act upon. I know that personally I am very grateful for the faith that was vested in me by those in this building and for that I (and I hope you, similarly) will be eternally grateful.

Often we can be very negative about this place and all that surrounds us. Being so complacent here makes it easy to be critical, but I guarantee you it would be hard to find some place better off than us here, on balance. It is different for each and every graduate sitting here today, but you’ve all been prepared, by some means, for what comes next whether it be through a lacrosse coach’s advice, or that of your mathematics teacher. We’ve shared in experiences that will shape the rest of our lives.

But now those four years are over, and today we celebrate all that has happened, and all that is to happen. We stand at the beginning of the rest of our lives, the end of our youth (OK, maybe this is dramatic) and the beginning of our adult lives. So I ask you, do you know what it means to be an adult? I agree with Paul Graham’s definition of it to be one who “take[s] intellectual responsibility for oneself.” Today is the first day that you are expected to take control of your intellectual desire, and to independently pursue that which interests you.

So before you go on, and forget about me, I’d caution you of one thing…

Do not let what we celebrate here today define you. Whether you accomplished something significant and were featured in our local newspapers, or felt more comfortable going under the radar throughout high school, do not become obsessed with what you have done, for you run the risk of doing nothing else. I urge you all to raise your heads and open your eyes. Be cognizant of the opportunities which lie ahead, and never, never define yourself by what you’ve done.

Today you are a champion, tomorrow you are nothing. Today you are a champion, tomorrow you are nothing.

Go decide what you will pursue tomorrow.

Welcome to graduation.

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A purse containing a wallet, phone and keys was taken from a beach towel set up at the pond at Merwin Meadows on June 22.

The suspect is described as a white male in his 30s, driving a red, faded older Acura sedan with Connecticut plates.

Anyone with information is asked to call Wilton Police at 203-834-6260.

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Elinor Byrne is joined by her family at her 100th birthday party, from left, son Dan Byrne, daughter Marianne Foley, granddaughter Lauren Foley, and son-in-law Peter Foley. — Danielle Ancona photo

Elinor Byrne makes being 100 not only an accomplishment, but a very happy time of life.

“Everybody loves her” was heard over and over again at her birthday party at Wilton Meadows Rehabilitation and Health Care Center where she has lived for five years. She entertained the 50 or so “younger” residents and smiling staff assembled to honor and marvel at her poise, charm and lively sense of humor. When she was congratulated for having reached 100, she said, “Not bad!” and added “One hundred great years.”

Her daughter Marianne Foley, and son-in-law Peter of Wilton, her son Dan, who lives in Rhode Island, and one of her five grandchildren, Lauren Foley, were all there, proud as can be.

“Mom was involved in everything,” said Dan. “She was driving at 91. Family meant everything to her. She was married to my dad 47 years. They loved to bowl and play bridge.”

“It was a real love story,” said Marianne. “They adored each other.”

She’s outlived all her brothers and sisters. She was a twin, but her identical twin sister died 35 years ago. Her sister smoked. Elinor didn’t.

“Elinor loves chocolate and eats some every day. She can eat a whole bar,” said Dan. “Another favorite was a very dry martini.”

“I remember when we were kids and went to the beach, Elinor was there,” said Marianne.

“She was under an umbrella, wearing a hat and a dress with long sleeves. She never went near the water, but when we were there, she was there.”

“She had worries, like everybody else, but she never got stressed about it,” said Peter.

“She had several heart attacks when she was in her 50s, but aside from being hard of hearing, the only medications she takes are to control blood pressure,” added Marianne.

Elinor was born in Newburgh, N.Y., but when she was a year old, her parents moved to the Woodlawn section of the Bronx. That’s where Dan was born. Then came a move to White Plains and then to Stamford, where Marianne was born. She’s lived in Wilton 31 years.

“My mom lived with us for awhile, but then she needed more care, the kind of care she gets here,” Marianne said.

There was applause when Elinor blew out the 100-year candle and more applause when she cut the first slice of cake.

“We should have this every day for lunch, “she said.

During the difficult years of WWII and the Depression, Elinor had a saying, which she knows by heart, and uses to cheer up people: “Here’s to it and to it again. If you ever get to it and you don’t do it, may you never get to it again.”

Have fun. Take risks. Life is short. But not for Elinor.

The post Elinor Byrne is a pretty, witty 100 appeared first on Wilton Bulletin.

Betsy and Steve Pettit on their wedding day, June 19, 1965.

To the Editors:

Last week we received many cards, texts and emails from present and former Wiltonites congratulating us on our 50th wedding anniversary.

Thank you to all of you who took the time to send us special thoughts and good wishes.

It has been a blessing living our entire married life, raising three children and having three of our grandchildren here in such a family-oriented community as Wilton.

Betsy and Steve Pettit

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Norwalk River Valley Trail — Kendra Baker photo

Here’s what’s happening in town today, June 27:

• Norwalk River Valley Trail Groundbreaking on Route 7 at 10.

• Minecraft Club at Wilton Library, from 10 to noon.

• Tales to Tails at Wilton Library, from 11 to noon.

• Take Part in Art at Weir Farm at 1.

• Open house: 15 Patrick Lane, from 1 to 3.

• Open house: 5 Gaylord Drive South, from 1 to 4.

• Read with Matt Davies at Wilton Library, from 2 to 3:30.

For more things to do, check the Wilton Bulletin Board.

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To the Editors:

On Saturday, June 20, the 57th Annual Wilton High School graduation exercises were relocated to the Wilton High School Field House from Fujitani Field at the last minute, due to rain. The success of the ceremony and reception would not have been possible without the generosity of volunteers and businesses in our community — especially the many more who volunteered when the location changed due to a change in weather.

We are so appreciative of three annual supporters of our graduation ceremonies who we couldn’t do without: Jim and Young’s Nurseries, who generously provide a wonderful array of trees, shrubs and flowers to decorate; Nancy Dolnier and the Village Market who prepare refreshments for graduates and guests; and retired fire Capt. Karl Dolnier, who loans, delivers, and supervises the setup and breakdown of the refreshment tent.

We would like to thank the many volunteers who helped out, not only with the original plan, but serving double shifts with such grace and flexibility when Mother Nature moved in! Thank you also to the many young men who stepped forward to assist in putting water bottles under chairs for the graduates and helping to garner additional chairs in order to assure everyone had a seat. Many of these young men I didn’t know, but was touched by their servants’ hearts and generous smiles!

Carole Kelleher and Michelle Klink led an amazing team of Saturday morning volunteers: David and Eric Craven, Carl Fazio, Lisa Franco, Scott Ingerman, Clay and Sibylle Kinley, Cole and Dylan Miller, Spencer Goodwin, Dean Kim, Jack Linderman, Ryan Murphy, Tim Sullivan, Preston Turk and Michael Williams who worked with Jose Figueroa and our phenomenal WHS custodial team on setup both at Fujitani Field and the relocation to the field house.

Ann Margaret Mannix and Kelly Lash led our refreshment team including Karen and Isabel Silverberg, Katie Schmidt, Bridgette Wall and Caroline Coffey in decorating, setting up and cleaning up the field tent, and then relocating hundreds of cookies and drinks to the cafeteria last minute!

Finally, a sincere thanks to Principal O’Donnell and the Wilton High School administrative staff and Cooper Pellaton and the student government team who led the way to make Graduation Day a success for all! From Friday’s handing out of caps, gowns and senior gifts through graduation exercises Saturday evening, thank you for all you did to make the celebration all about the students! A special thank you also to our Friday volunteers: Jen Albee, Evelyn Gladstein, Margaret Glynn Pamela Hovland, Katie and Sibylle Kinley and Natalia White.

Above all, congratulations to the class of 2015: filled with so many bright, athletic and talented students. Over the years you’ve treated each other and those of us who were blessed to have volunteered in the many PTSA activities you were involved in, with grace and kindness. You will be missed — we can’t wait to see how you will positively affect our world!

Claire Craven
Graduation Chair and Extremely Proud Mother of David, Class of 2015
Wilton, June 22

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This summer, those driving from Wilton to Weston may feel as if they are stuck inside an enactment of the traditional New England saying: “You can’t get thay-ah from hea-ah.”

While getting from here to there will not be impossible, it’s definitely going to be more difficult over the next several weeks, as three major road projects in Weston overlap and detours are put into place.

The latest is the upcoming closure of the bridge over the West Branch of the Saugatuck River near the Cobbs Mill Inn, where routes 57 (Georgetown Road) and 53 (Newtown Turnpike/Weston Road) intersect. The bridge is expected to be closed to all traffic between July 1 and Sept. 15.

Cars traveling south on Georgetown Road will detour onto Old Mill Road, a narrow, winding road that has been the subject of many speeding complaints over the years.

Old Mill Road, which becomes Cobbs Mill Road over the Wilton town line, will only be open one way — southbound — from Georgetown Road to the Cobbs Mill Inn during construction, so residents can access their homes and the restaurant from either direction, but there will be no northbound through-traffic permitted.

Trucks will not be allowed at all on Old Mill Road during construction.

Vehicles traveling northbound on Route 53/Weston Road who want to get to Route 57/Georgetown Road will be officially re-routed onto Route 7 north — via Norfield Road, Cedar Road, and Chestnut Hill Road (Route 53) — to Route 107 in Georgetown.

Locals, however, will likely prefer to connect to Georgetown Road using Godfrey Road West.

Herein lies the problem.

Godfrey Road West continues to be closed to all traffic due to a bridge replacement project further north up the Saugatuck’s West Branch. The road is closed at the intersection with Pent Road on the eastern end of the bridge, and Old Orchard Drive to the west of the bridge.

The project, however, is on schedule to be completed by July 10, so the two bridge closures should only overlap for a few weeks.

In the meantime, motorists must use Michael’s Way and Old Orchard Drive to travel between Route 53/Newtown Turnpike and Route 57/Georgetown Road.

“Up the road a piece,” on Route 53/Newtown Turnpike near the Redding border, there is another construction project that will likely cause more traffic delays — but no detour is needed.

The state Department of Transportation is replacing a retaining wall across from Weston Racquet Club. The road is open for alternating one-way traffic, using a temporary traffic light that was installed last week.

This project is expected to be mostly completed by Sept. 15.

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