Here’s what’s happening in town today, Dec. 27:

• BeMoved at Wilton Senior Center at 9:45.

• Oil/Acrylics at Wilton Senior Center at 10.

• Holiday Book Sale at Wilton Library, from 10 to 8.

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

• Mah Jongg at Wilton Senior Center at 12:30.

• Blood Pressure Screening at Village Market, from 12:30 to 2.

• Studio Knitting at Wilton Senior Center at 1.

• Chair Yoga at Ogden House, from 2 to 3.

• Let’s Make Something! with Tinkercad at Wilton Library, from 2 to 3.

• Chanukah Celebration at Wilton Library, from 4 to 4:30.

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

The post What’s happening in Wilton? appeared first on Wilton Bulletin.

Presenting a $4,000 check to Wilton Social Services from the Encore Club are, from left, Karen Birck, treasurer; Nancy Helmig, president; (now retired) Social Services Director Cathy Pierce; and Carol Boehly, fund-raiser chair. The funds were raised at the club’s annual luncheon and fashion show on Oct. 21, and presented to Pierce on Dec. 12. The Encore Club is a social club for Wilton and area women founded 46 years ago.

The post Fashion show funds appeared first on Wilton Bulletin.

Soccer players representing military units from the U.S. and Japan face off on the field during a friendly soccer tournament supporting the Kick for Nick Foundation at the French school Kessel in downtown Djibouti Dec. 9, 2016. The event brought together eleven different teams from six countries for friendly competition in support of the Kick for Nick Foundation. — Master Sgt. Paul Gorman/U.S. Air National Guard photo

Adjutant Tom Moore of the James B. Whipple American Legion Post 86 last Saturday passed along the news that the post’s website contains a new link to a video of a soccer tournament in the Horn of Africa honoring Nick Madaras, the Marine from Wilton killed in Iraq in 2006.

The post’s news webpage at post86legion.org/news—notes.html also has a link to a video from NBCs Nightly News about Kick for Nick.

The soccer tournament video is on the Facebook page of the Combined Joint Task Force — Horn of Africa. The tournament was held in the Republic of Djibouti (a small country bordered by Eritrea to the north and Ethiopia to the south and west) in support of the #KickforNick Foundation. Players on 11 teams from six countries took part. Not only can you check out the video and story of the great event, there are many photos. Six new ones were added on Monday.

Go to Post 86’s website or www.facebook.com/cjtfhornofafrica/videos (and look for Kick for Nick scores a goooooaaaaaa!!!!!!!)

The Combined Joint Task Force — Horn of Africa has a mission that sounds strategically important and dangerous: “Through unified action with U.S. and international partners in East Africa, CJTF-HOA conducts security force assistance, executes military engagement, provides force protection, and provides military support to regional counter-violent extremist organization operations in order to support aligned regional efforts, ensure regional access and freedom of movement, and protect U.S. interests.”

Legion Post officers conducted a wreath laying ceremony at the Wilton Veterans Memorial on Saturday morning.

The post Tourney in Africa in honor of Kick for Nick appeared first on Wilton Bulletin.

Many know of the Russian writer Vladimir Nabokov who wrote Lolita, among other works. But what of his wife, Véra?

Born into a Russian Jewish family, she gave up her own budding career as a writer to marry Nabokov in 1925 and devote herself to his career. She became his editor, translator, and assistant.

“Without my wife,” Vladimir Nabokov once noted, “I wouldn’t have written a single novel.”

Her life is the subject of Véra (Mrs. Vladimir Nabokov) by Stacy Schiff. The book is next month’s selection for the Booked for Lunch history reading group that will meet Friday, Jan. 27, from 12:30 to 2, at Wilton Historical Society, 224 Danbury Road.

Set in prewar Europe and postwar America, spanning much of the century, the story of the Nabokovs’ 52-year marriage reads as vividly as a novel. It won the 2000 Pulitzer Prize for biography.

Book club participants may bring a brown bag lunch, the society provides a beverage and dessert. There is no charge, but registration is requested by emailing info@wiltonhistorical.org or calling 203762-7257.

The post Mrs. Nabokov is subject of discussion appeared first on Wilton Bulletin.

The Wilton fourth grade boys basketball team, the Future Warriors. From the left, front row: Grady Kaliski, Nathaniel Kalter, Matt Garcia and Jack Schwartz; second row: Liam Murphy, Patrick Lillis, Luke Perna and Mason Andrews; third row: coach McKiernan, Henry Soojian, Cael Dexter, Liam McKiernan, Ryan Luchetta and coach Evans. Missing are Luke Ginsburg and Charlie Keller.

Wilton Basketball Association teams had the following results in action from the weekend of Dec. 17-18:

Girls Travel

Fifth grade

Wilton 42, New Canaan Red (B) 4

Wilton 29, Westport PAL 9

Wilton 25, Darien YMCA 11

The undefeated Wilton fifth grade girls, sponsored by Wilton Sports Shop and coached by Cricket Luke, extended their winning streak by earning three decisive wins. The Warriors active teamwork, lightening speed and sharp offensive execution helped them fill up the scoreboards. On the other side of the court, the Warriors limited their opponents’ points with a barrage of blocks, steals and solid defense.

In the last two games combined, pretty much all the players scored, led by Ashleigh Masterson with 19 points and Anisa Burrows with 16 points. Molly Hancock scored five points and Madeline Dinesen had four points, while Marin Burke, Riley Fitzgerald, Caroline Hage, Siena McDermott, Lauren Moe and Kaitlyn Sullivan added two points each.

Sixth grade

Ridgefield 26, Wilton 23

The Wilton sixth grade girls team played two league games over the weekend.

On Saturday, the girls faced a tough competitor in Ridgefield. Kelly Holmgren (10 points, 6 steals, 4 rebounds) was solid all-around, Heather Plowright (4 points, 8 steals, 1 rebound) was unstoppable on defense and Kendall Scholz (2 points, 3 steals, 2 rebounds) proved to be strong once again. Despite fierce play by Emerson Pattillo (4 points, 1 assist, 1 rebound) and Sawyer Pendergast (2 steals, 5 rebounds), WIlton came up short.

Wilton 24, Newtown 14

On Sunday, the girls traveled to Newtown and came away with a win. Charlotte Casiraghi (6 points, 5 steals, 1 rebound) got the team off to a great start with early baskets and Mary Scally (4 points, 4 steals, 2 rebounds) played yet another solid game. Great hustle by Molly Snow (2 points, 2 steals, 2 rebounds) and Lucy Corry (1 assist, 2 steals, 2 rebounds) proved too tough for Newtown. Great play in the second half by Ava Fasano (4 points, 3 steals, 3 rebounds) increased Wilton’s lead to a final score of 24-14.

Boys travel

Fourth grade

St. Theresa’s 30, Wilton 16

The Wilton fourth grade boys team, sponsored by Diamond Deli, traversed the snow and sleet on Saturday to take on St. Theresa’s.

The Future Warriors showed determination and grit but came up short on the scoreboard with a final score of 30-16. Ryan Luchetta led the scoring for Wilton with eight points, hitting two 3-pointers. Luchetta also had an assist and six rebounds. Luke Ginsburg dominated the boards with seven rebounds and scored two buckets. Luke Perna was the playmaker of the game coming in with five assists. Liam McKiernan’s work on both sides of the court was solid with one bucket, four rebounds and some key defensive steals. Grady Kaliski helped power the offense with two points, one assist and some excellent work battling on the boards. Patrick Lillis threaded the needle with a beautiful pass earning him a quality assist and he also had one offensive rebound. Jack Schwartz led Wilton’s strong defensive efforts and helped contain St. Theresa’s capable shooters to only 12 points in the second half. Schwartz had four steals, four rebounds and hit one of his free throws. Only a couple games into the season this Wilton team is rapidly progressing. Cael Dexter, currently sidelined with an injury, is on the road to recovery.

Guilford 31, Wilton 25

The Future Warriors traveled to Guilford on Sunday to take on the Bulldogs on their home court. Wilton kept things even through the first quarter but by halftime fell behind by 10 points. Wilton made a valiant comeback in the second half, finishing the third quarter only down 23-16. In spite of the loss the boys can be proud of the fact that they managed to make a comeback against a solid team. Liam Murphy (12 points, 7 rebounds) and Liam McKiernan (8 points, 2  rebounds, 4 assists) led the scoring attack with Murphy being the game’s leading rebounder. Matt Garcia (2 points, 1 rebound) and Charlie Keller (2 points, 3 steals) also contributed lay-ups to try and pull Wilton closer. Mason Andrews (2 rebounds, 1 steal), Nathaniel Kalter (1 rebound, 2 steals) and Henry Soojian (2 rebounds, 1 steal) also helped to put good defensive pressure on Guilford throughout the game. Guilford banked a couple of shots from far outside late in the game that put it away.

Fifth/Sixth grade

Wilton 48, Monroe 33

The Wilton fifth/sixth boys team (56ers) put their 3-1 record to the test against a feisty team from Insports Monroe. Despite a hard-fought effort from Monroe, the Wilton 56ers prevailed and extended their record to 4-1 with a 48-33 victory.

The 56ers led at the end of the first half, 21-15, with strong rebounding on both ends of the court. Jefferson Mitchell paced the 56ers in the first half with seven points and aggressive play on the boards. Bailey Finn added five points down low and Spencer Liston, Andrew Roth (3 points), Andre Wiest and Colin Tsai with a 3-pointer got into the scoring column, while Wyatt Jones, Harrison Lent, Kyle Roesser, Declan Brokaw, Michael Byrnes and Michael Wall played solid defense. The second half started with no letdown by the 56ers as their tenacious defense and aggressive rebounding was no match for Monroe. Bailey Finn led the charge in the second half with eight points to finish with 13 points. Colin Tsai and Andre Wiest both added two baskets to finish with seven points and five points, while Declan Brokaw made clutch baskets down the stretch to finish with five points. Spencer Liston (4 points) and Michael Wall (2 points) both added buckets in the second half and both provided a steady hand at the point guard position. Harrison Lent (2 points) also got into the scoring column in the second half and along with tough defense from Byrnes, Jones and Roesser, the 56ers will head into the holiday break on a three-game winning streak.

Sixth grade

Stamford JCCC 48, Wilton 40

The Wilton sixth grade boys travel basketball team, sponsored by Wilton Deli, lost to Stamford JCC 48-40 on Saturday. Despite strong effort and hustle, turnovers got the better of the Warriors, who led by one at halftime after an 8-0 run late in the second quarter. Jackson Duncan and Alex Reyes were leading scorers with eight points each, followed by Ryan Preisano, Nicholas Walden and Peter Grandolfo who each tallied six points. Wilton’s defense was strong with excellent play by Reyes, Duncan, Will Sullivan, and Griffin Turner. Tommy Walsh and James Minnich were solid on both ends of the court.

Seventh grade

Darien YMCA 59, Wilton 58 (OT)

The Wilton seventh grade boys, sponsored by Servco-Oil, had the crowd at the edge of their seats during two intense games this weekend.

Saturday’s game against Darien YMCA had a promising start, with a game opening 3-point basket by Matthew Giller (3 points, 1 rebound).  On numerous occasions, the Hyzy boys — Craig (13 points, 7 rebounds) and Kevin (10 points, 2 rebounds) — trapped the ball in the corner allowing no easy shots for Darien. Lead scorers Max Andrews (14 points, 12 rebounds) and Parker Woodring (14 points, 4 rebounds) set the pace as they used their speed to convert defensive intensity into fast break opportunities. The boys maintained the lead for the Wilton team until the end of the third quarter. Action picked up in the fourth quarter as the determined Darien team tied the game with a buzzer-beating shot, taking the boys into overtime.  After some strong defensive plays by Connor Cummings (4 points, 4 rebounds) the Wilton boys lost in overtime 59-58.

Wilton 68, Bloomfield 60

On Sunday, the boys traveled upstate to win against an undefeated Bloomfield team. The game was typical for this squad as each boy contributed to the team’s success in scoring, rebounding, assists, steals and most of all, determination.  

Max Silva (2 rebounds) had two huge blocks in the same possession that stopped Bloomfield’s momentum while Parker Woodring (5 points, 9 rebounds) and Zarius Eusebe’s (3 points) on ball pressure, forced bad passes that turned into transition attempts.  However, it was Sean Wiseman (3 points, 2 rebounds) and Dillon Mannix (3 points, 2 rebounds) who both made clutch 3-point shots at critical points of the game to keep the Wilton boys in the lead. Big centers Max Andrews (15 points, 13 rebounds) and Connor Cummings (4 points, 6 rebounds) contributed strong plays under the hoop, grabbing several offensive rebounds and putting them back up for baskets. The 68-60 win was solidified by 3-point shots from Giller (3 points, 2 rebounds) Kevin (8 points, 4 steals) and six remarkable all-net baskets made by Craig Hyzy (24 points, 4 rebounds).

Seventh/Eighth grade

Wilton 44, Westport 29

The Wilton seven/eighth grade boys team, sponsored by Abercrombie, Burns, McKiernan & Company Insurance, Inc., won both its games over the weekend.

On Friday night, the team traveled to the Westport YMCA and were down 4-0 early in the first. Then Wilton had a 16-point unanswered run to close out the first quarter with the lead,16-4. Jermaine Vincent (10 points) led the team in baskets and defensive prowess. Sam Strazza (7 points, 2 assists) hit a 3-pointer and along with his two rebounds, helped the team finish the first half with a 30-10 lead. Davis Cote (2 points, 2 assists) came on the court all fired up and led the team in steals with three. AJ Preisano (1 assist) kept the guards off balance all game and made an important free throw to keep the Warriors in control. Jack Lynch (3 points, 1 assist) finished the first half with a buzzer-beater foul and sunk one. In the second half, rebounding was the name of the game led by Howie Long (4 points), John Stanley (4 points) and Jimmy McKiernan (1 assist). High energy output by Dylan Smith and Ben Weiner (4 points, 1 assist) kept Wilton on top, 37-24. In the final quarter, thanks to John McMahon (4 points, 1 assist) and EJ Fasano (2 points) Wilton finished strong.

Wilton 40, Fairfield 22

On Saturday, the team capped a 2-0 weekend with a solid 40-22 win over Fairfield. After a tightly contested first half, 12-11, the Warriors were on fire in the third quarter and outscored

Fairfield 14-4. Dylan Smith (3 points, 1 rebound), Sam Strazza (5 points, 1 rebound) and Ben Weiner (5 points, 2 free throws, 1 assist, 1 steal) drained 3-pointers. Jimmy McKiernan

led the team with six points (2 rebounds, 1 assist) and Jermaine Vincent’s good hustle in transition tallied four assists, two steals, two rebounds and four points. On defense, the tenacity and quick hands of Jack Lynch (4 steals, 2 rebounds) and Davis Cote (3 steals, 6 rebounds, 5 points) kept Fairfield on its heels. The momentum continued into the fourth quarter with all-around quick defense and superior offense from John McMahon (3 points, 2 assists), John Stanley (2 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist) and Howie Long (4 points, 2 rebounds). The victory was sealed with the rebound from EJ Fusano and free throw by AJ Preisano.

Eighth grade

Wilton 58, Ridgefield 39

The Wilton eighth grade boys, sponsored by Tavern on 7, defeated Ridgefield 58-39 in a league game on Sunday. Wilton trailed 6-0 before going on a 16-0 run. Ridgefield’s full-court press gave Wilton fits in the second quarter, cutting Wilton’s halftime lead to two. Beginning midway in the third quarter Wilton went on a 29-9 burst to settle the outcome. Wilton’s balanced scoring was led by the inside play of Matt Gulbin, who finished with 16 points. Alex Cocoros scored nine points, shooting 3-for-6 from downtown. Josh White (8 points) and Owen Lillis (5 points) also made 3-pointers. Wilton’s defense was led by Trevor Martines with five steals (5 points) and Mack Kepner (3 points) and Lillis with three steals each, while Matt Murphy (2 points) had four blocked shots.  Wilton’s rebounding was led by Michael Coffey with eight boards (6 points) and Sean Sullivan with four boards. Chase Autore led the team in assists and also scored four points on drives to the basket against significant defensive pressure. Wilton is now 6-0 on the season and 3-0 in league games.

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The large menorah in Wilton Center was lit Monday, Dec. 26, at 6 p.m., to observe the festival of Hanukah, which began the evening of Dec. 24 and ends on Jan. 1. Leading the celebration was Rabbi Levi Stone of the Schneerson Center.

The family-friendly event featured, live holiday music, donuts, dreidels and other holiday giveaways. 

Hanukah, the festival of lights, celebrates the victory of the Maccabees over the Greek Syrian oppressors in the land of Israel and the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem with the lighting of the menorah. Although they had only one day’s supply of olive oil it miraculously lasted eight full days until new oil was obtained. The menorah is a symbol of hope and freedom. Hanukah is celebrated for eight consecutive days with the lighting of one candle the first night and increasing each night with an additional light until all eight are lit.

— Bryan Haeffele photos

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There were stretches where the shots didn’t fall and the turnovers piled up for the Wilton High boys basketball team during Tuesday’s game in Westport.

But when they were good, the Warriors were very good — and that was more than enough for a convincing 83-51 win over Newtown in the first round of the 2016 Holiday Classic at Staples High School.

The Warriors (3-0) will play in the championship game on Thursday night at 7, against the winner of Tuesday’s second game pitting Staples against Kolbe Cathedral.

Things got off to a slow start in Tuesday’s game, with the Warriors holding only a 5-4 lead nearly five minutes into the game.

The Nighthawks tied the game 10-10 before a tip-in by Matt Kronenberg in the final 30 seconds made it 12-10 after one quarter. It proved to be the start of a decisive 22-0 run.

The second quarter was all Wilton, which used 12 to 13 players rotating in and out of the game in waves, and applied fullcourt pressure that helped lead to 13  turnovers for Newtown in the quarter. The Warriors hit seven of 14 shots (including four 3-pointers) and held the Nighthawks to only one field goal en route to a 38-16 halftime lead.

After a slow start to the third quarter, in which they hit only one of their first 10 shots, the Warriors poured it on over the final four minutes of the period, outscoring Newtown 18-4. When Jack Wood dropped a turnaround 3-pointer at the buzzer, the lead was 64-31 going into the fourth quarter.

For the game, 12 different Wilton players scored, and nine scored six or more points. The Warriors hit 12 3-pointers, getting treys from six different players.

Drew Connolly led the way with 13 points, including a trio of 3-pointers, and had four assists. Scoring nine points each were Matt Kronenberg, Nick Kronenberg (two 3-pointers) and Jack Williams (one 3-pointer).

Scott Cunningham and Joe Pozzi (two 3-pointers) each had eight points, and Sean Breslin tallied seven points (two 3-pointers).

Scoring six points each were Jack Wood (two 3-pointers) and Kyle Maatallah.

Kyle Shifin hit for four points and Kyle Phillips and Robbie Hermann added two points each. Ryan Schriber and Jackson Cote also contributed to the win.

Todd Peterson led Newtown with 14 points. Tucker Garrity had 10 points.

The post Boys basketball: Wilton routs Newtown in tourney opener appeared first on Wilton Bulletin.

Here’s what’s happening in town today, Dec. 28:

• Sewing at Ogden House at 9:30.

• Open Bridge at Wilton Senior Center at 10.

• Holiday Book Sale at Wilton Library, from 10 to 8.

• Tai Chi at Wilton Senior Center, from 10:30 to 11:30.

• Mah Jongg at Wilton Senior Center at 1.

• Night Time Knitters at Wilton Library, from 6 to 7:30.

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

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Absolute Logic founder Al Alper explains his high-tech approach to Wilton Chamber of Commerce President Tom Sato.

Al Alper, Wilton resident and founder of Absolute Logic, a firm providing technical support and technology consulting to the region, celebrated his company’s 25th anniversary on Dec. 16 with a ceremony at his office in the Piersall Building at 44 Old Ridgefield Road.

Alper was joined by state Sen. Toni Boucher, state Rep. Gail Lavielle, Wilton Chamber of Commerce President Tom Sato, Norwalk Chamber of Commerce Vice President Brian Griffin, and a representative from the Wilton Board of Selectmen.

Absolute Logic will receive official commendations from the state legislature for its contributions to the community. With an uptick in concerns about cybersecurity, Absolute Logic has worked with businesses and organizations throughout the region to help them protect their networks and information.

Since 1991, Absolute Logic has been providing Fortune 500-style technical support and technology consulting to businesses of up to 250 employees, including cybersecurity issues. Services include managed IT services and consulting, cloud computing, virtualization, email and spam protection, backup and disaster recovery, VoIP solutions, network security, and more.

The post Absolute Logic celebrates 25 years appeared first on Wilton Bulletin.

Lynn Huffard

I have many times tried in college essays and other English assignments writing about this experience. It is never-endingly frustrating because no matter how hard I try to capture improvisation and the troupe I am a part of at Wilton High School on paper, the words seem overworked, lifeless, and contrived. These three adjectives express everything that improv is not. Improv creates an illusion of ease and comfort. It captures the thrilling magic of teamwork and creativity all in one. Improv is vigorous. If anything it drills the life back into each participant. Improv is spontaneous and natural, like osmosis between the roots of a plant and the soil. It is the resultant of a blank stage, some fanciful minds, and laughter.

As a small, wide-eyed freshman, I found myself overwhelmed and slightly afraid of the high school that surrounded me. In order to cope with this feeling of miniscuality, I signed up for public speaking and theater arts. It was my hope that these classes would force me to learn how to better present myself, and how to be more confident in my own skin. My theater arts class had students from the high school that spanned all ages and interests. Within this medley of students is where Ms. Delude, our inspiring and intelligent director, first introduced me to the art form called improvisation. Come that November of freshman year, I auditioned to be cast in the novel improv show at Wilton High School. In that wonderful space, the Little Theater, for the next few years, my outlook and perspective on how I treat others and how I tackle the world around me changed for the better.

Improv infects your soul and never leaves. I believe wholeheartedly that any member of Freeplay: A Night of Improv Comedy at Wilton High School can attest to this statement. This year will be my fourth and final year with this comedy troupe. Walking into the first day of rehearsal was, in a nutshell, weird. The room was no longer primarily filled with the faces of those who helped start the program four years ago. As the rehearsals wore on, I realized that it did not matter that some of these improvisers were new to me. What mattered was the tangible energy and excitement in the room. What mattered was the passion and hunger that each of these students has for improvisation. These fresh faces reminded me why I love these winter months so much. It reminded me of the joy of play that improv demands, of the terms of agreement that are the crux of improvisation, and of what it means to feel free of judgment and concern.

I believe for the most part that our unhappiness comes when we reject the essential tenets of improvisation in our day-to-day lives. As we close off our minds to spontaneous choices, we limit ourselves. When we treat mistakes as trash, we lose the essence of creativity. If we never allow ourselves to take safe risks, or to find comfort in being uncomfortable, we prevent ourselves from growing. I will always hold dear to my heart the “yes, and” mentality of improv, wherever I go.

Graduates will say what they will about Wilton High School, but I know that this ensemble is what I will remember most of all. Each scene is fleeting, but the friendships and memories I have made will last a lifetime. The symbol for Freeplay: A Night of Improv Comedy is a small, shining lightbulb because improvisation encourages creativity. It is this symbol of a small lightbulb that stands for an experience which has brightened my life for good.

Lynn Huffard is a senior at Wilton High School. She shares this column with four classmates.

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To the Editors:

We can thank Mother Nature for a beautiful night for our annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Stroll event on Friday, Dec. 2, but the all the thank-yous go to the people that make this event so special.

The Wilton Chamber of Commerce would like to thank our first selectman, Lynne Vanderslice, the Wilton Fire Department, the Department of Public Works, Parks and Recreation, Santa (Mark Ketley) and his assistant, Joan Ketley, and all our volunteers: Tom Sato, Pat Russo, Peg Koellmer, Carol Johnson, Susan Goldman, Scott Benjamin, Michael Smith, Michael Kaelin, Tim Lashar, and Susan Schaefer.

Also, thank you to the Wilton Library, Nick Loafman and the Wilton High School band, and Sarah Michaels and her strolling carolers.

A special thank-you goes out to all the merchants and businesses that participated with their generous hospitality. We wish them all, and the wonderful town of Wilton, the best of this holiday season and a healthy and prosperous 2017.

Please remember to shop local and enjoy Wilton!

Debra Hanson
Executive Director
Wilton Chamber of Commerce

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Woodcock Nature Center, the nonprofit organization that manages the nature preserve on the border of Wilton and Ridgefield, is reflecting on 2016.

According to a year-end email newsletter message from the staff and board sent out earlier this week, Woodcock, with the help of supporters in the community accomplished quite a lot this year.

Some highlights include the fact that more than 3,000 students visited the preserve “to learn about the local environment and what they can do to protect it.” Some 200 teens and adults participated in the new Community Conservation Initiative where they learned similar lessons.

Community events, like summer nature camps (attended by 650 youth) and the Wreath Festival fund-raiser (1,000 adult participants), also contributed to services and cause.

“While 2016 was a great year, we are planning for an even better 2017,” Woodcock leadership’s emailed special announcement reports. Donations may be made at woodcocknaturecenter.org or Facebook.com/WoodcockNatureCenter.

Woodcock does not receive funding from local or state governments. “Your support keeps our doors open to schools and our preserve open to hikers, thank you!”

The post Time of reflection at Woodcock appeared first on Wilton Bulletin.

Sale of marijuana

A 25-year-old Wilton man was charged with sale and possession of a controlled substance Dec. 21 at 10:12 p.m. after failing to obey a stop sign, for which he was also charged.

Gregory Norman, of 21 Surrey Glen, was found with a plastic bag containing two ounces of marijuana and a lockbox in the backseat containing $6,420 in cash.

He was released on $5,000 bond with a court date of Jan. 3.

DUI

A 62-year-old Westport man was charged on Dec. 24 at 11 a.m. with assault on public safety, interference with an officer, breach of peace, driving under the influence, and failure to drive in the proper lane.

Gerard Gaspel, of 15 Partrick Lane, Westport, turned himself in on a warrant related to an incident on Nov. 21 that resulted in the above charges.

After officers pulled over Gaspel’s vehicle for his erratic driving on Nov. 21, attempts had to be made to forcefully remove him from the vehicle.

While in the ambulance he allegedly grabbed the EMS worker. He was later determined to be driving under the influence.

He was released on $10,000 bond with a court date of Jan. 3.

The Wilton Police Department responded to at least once case of domestic verbal abuse during the week of Dec. 13 to Dec. 20.

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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.

New Year Celebration, Friday, Dec. 30, 2-3, Wilton Library. Crafts and activities. All ages; registration required: 203-762-6336 or www.wiltonlibrary.org.

Art Exhibition and Reception, Friday, Jan. 6, 6-7:30 p.m., Wilton Library. The work of six Wilton artists is on display. Reception open to the public. www.wiltonlibrary.org.

Mother and Daughter Book Club, Saturday, Jan. 7, 11-noon, Wilton Library. This month’s book is Ramona the Pest. For grades 3-5. Registration required: 203-762-3950 or www.wiltonlibrary.org.

Candle Dipping Workshop for Kids, Saturday, Jan. 7, 11-12:30, Wilton Historical Society, 224 Danbury Road. Children can try their hand at dipping candles and learn about life in Colonial Connecticut from Museum Educator Lola Chen. Kids can help make their own snack — fruit dipped in chocolate. Members: $10/child, $25/family; non-members: $15/child, $35/family. Register: info@wiltonhistorical.org or 203-762-7257.

Men’s Breakfast, Tuesday, Jan. 10, 9 a.m., Orem’s Diner, Danbury Road. Stay at Home in Wilton sponsors an opportunity for men to get together. Rides available. Information: 203-762-2600.

Organize Yourself, Tuesday, Jan. 10, 11-12:30, Wilton Library. Learn the tricks of Bullet Journaling to get organized. Bring a Marble notebook. For ages 18 and older. Registration required: 203-762-3950 or www.wiltonlibrary.org.

Mah Jongg, Tuesday, Jan. 10, 12:30, Wilton Senior Center, Comstock Community Center, 180 School Road. Beginners welcome. Sponsored by Stay at Home in Wilton and the senior center. RSVP: Kay Chann at 203-762-9026.

Breast Cancer Survivors’ Support Group, Tuesday, Jan. 10, 6-8 p.m., Wilton Library. For post-treatment survivors, presented by Nina Marino, LCSW, and the library. Free, registration highly encouraged. Questions: call Nina Marino at 203-857-7304. Register: 203-762-3950 or www.wiltonlibrary.org.

Wilton Library Readers, Wednesday, Jan. 11, 12-1:30, Wilton Library. This month’s book is Everybody’s Fool and Nobody’s Fool by Richard Russo. Bring lunch, beverages will be provided. Advance registration suggested: 203-762-3950 or www.wiltonlibrary.org.

Free Downloads, Wednesday, Jan. 11, 1-2:30, Wilton Senior Center, Comstock Community Center, 180 School Road. Bring your own device and learn about the free downloadable ebooks and audiobooks available through Wilton Library. Registration strongly suggested: 203-762-3950 or www.wiltonlibrary.org.

Your Elevator Speech, Wednesday, Jan. 11, Wilton Library. Presented by the library, SCORE of Fairfield County and the Wilton Chamber of Commerce. Learn to develop a concise and memorable introduction to enhance business opportunities. Speaker is Stanley Witkow, former general counsel of GE Capital IT Solutions. Registration required: 203-831-0065 or scorefairfieldcounty.org.

New Perspectives Film Series, Saturday, Jan. 14, 7:30-9:30 p.m., Wilton Library. Back on Board, a documentary about Olympic diver Greg Louganis will be screened. Suggested donation of $5. Q&A after the film with moderator Megan Smith-Harris. Registration highly recommended: 203-762-3950 or www.wiltonlibrary.org.

Valuing Your Business, Tuesday, Jan. 17, 6-8 p.m., Comstock Community Center, 180 School Road. A free program presented by SCORE on how to understand and determine the value of a small business. Check-in starts at 5:30. Information: 203-831-0065 or score.fairfieldcounty@gmail.com.

AARP Driver Safety Class, Wednesday, Jan. 18, 10-2, Wilton Library. Practical techniques on how to adjust to changes in vision, hearing and reaction time associated with aging. No tests. Registration required. Cost: $15/AARP members, $20/non-members, cash or check only. Information: 203-762-3950 or www.wiltonlibrary.org.

Candlelight Concert, Sunday, Jan. 22, 4-5:30 p.m., Wilton Congregational Church, 70 Ridgefield Road. Pamela Frank and Friends presents a program of string quintets and other works by Dvorak, Mendelssohn, and Mozart. Tickets: 203-762-3401 or wiltoncandlelightconcerts.org.

Parent Support Group, Monday, Jan. 23, 10-11:30, G&B Cultural Center, 49 New Street. For parents  of children with behavioral, emotional and mental health issues. Free, presented by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Child and Adolescent Network (CAN). Information: Beth at 203-984-0123 or Beth44es@gmail.com or visit namisouthwestct.com.

Senior Center Book Discussion, Tuesday, Jan. 24, 11-noon, Wilton Senior Center, Comstock Community Center, 180 School Road. Michael Hess will lead a discussion of Empire by Gore Vidal. Register: 203-834-6240.

Mah Jongg, Tuesday, Jan. 24, 12:30, Wilton Senior Center, Comstock Community Center, 180 School Road. Beginners welcome. Sponsored by Stay at Home in Wilton and the senior center. RSVP: Kay Chann at 203-762-9026.

Tuesday Movie, Tuesday, Jan. 24, 3-5 p.m., Wilton Senior Center, Comstock Community Center, 180 School Road. Meryl Streep stars in Florence Foster Jenkins. Free. Complimentary popcorn, candy and soda. RSVP: 203-762-2600.

Author Talk, Thursday, Jan. 26, 7-8:30 p.m., Wilton Library. CNBC Senior Contributor Larry Kudlow discusses his new book, JFK and the Reagan Revolution: A Secret History of American Prosperity, written with Brian Domitrovic. Q&A and book signing will follow. Books available for purchase. Free, registration required: 203-762-3950 or www.wiltonlibrary.org.

Chinese New Year Celebration, Friday, Jan. 27, 4-4:45, Wilton Library. Families may welcome the Year of the Rooster with stories, snacks, fortunes, and crafts. Registration required: 203-762-6336 or www.wiltonlibrary.org.

Tales to Tails, Saturday, Jan. 28, 11-noon, Wilton Library. Children who are independent readers may read to therapy dogs. Free, registration required: 203-762-3950 orwww.wiltonlibrary.org.

Scholarly Series, Sunday, Jan. 29, 4-5:30, Wilton Library. The first of a five-part collaboration between the library and Wilton Historical Society: Finding Our Place: Evolving American Identity. The program focuses on the United States’ place in the world during World War I and its aftermath. John Tully, professor of history at Central Connecticut State University, will discuss how U.S. foreign policy in the 20th Century reflected American values. Registration required: 203-762-6334 or www.wiltonlibrary.org.

Technology Classes, Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2-3 and 6:30-7:30 p.m., Wilton Library. Michael Bellacosa will show how to create and format a basic spreadsheet in Microsoft Excel 2010. Free, basic computer skills required. Advance registration required: 203-762-3950 or www.wiltonlibrary.org.

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Here’s what’s happening in town today, Dec. 29:

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

• Holiday Book Sale at Wilton Library, from 10 to 8.

• Lunch at Wilton Senior Center at noon.

• Bingo at Wilton Senior Center at 12:45.

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

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Seniors participate in a round of bingo at the Wilton Senior Center. The ‘bingo balloons’ were provided courtesy of the Cider Mill PTA, which used them for a family bingo at the school. Synergy Homecare hosted the game and provided dessert and gift cards as prizes for the winners.

Improve your driving

AAA’s Driving Improvement Program is aimed at experienced drivers who wish to improve their driving skills and review defensive driving basics.  By completing this class, drivers 60 years of age and older qualify for a minimum 5% discount on their auto insurance (restrictions apply). In fact, some insurers provide that discount to experienced drivers as young as 55. So we encourage you to check with your insurer to see what they offer.

The class will be taught by Wilton Police Sgt. David Hartman on Friday, Jan. 6, from 8:30 to 12:30, in the Comstock Community Center.

Register online by visiting aaa.com/driverimprovement or call 203-937-2595, ext. 4684 for more information.  

Thanks

Wilton Social Services Department extends thanks to…

Sixteen Wilton families, Wilton Kiwanis Club, Wilton Rotary Club, Wilton Children’s Day School, Wilton Community Nursery School, Temple B’Nai Chaim, St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, Zion’s Hill United Methodist Church, Wilton Presbyterian Church, 14 Girl Scout troops, 10 Boy Scout troops, Riverbrook Regional Y, Riverbrook Gymnastics, Coldwell Banker, Realty 7, The Greens at Cannondale, Ridgefield RVNA, the J-Moms, the Wilton Working Moms, the Wilton Moms’ Club, the Wilton Newcomers Club, and Charles Taylor PLC, who in total provided 75 fabulous Thanksgiving dinner baskets and Stop & Shop gift cards for Wilton families; and the Wilton Woman’s Club whose members provided a basket and invaluable assistance the day of the dinner basket delivery and distribution;

The Wilton Woman’s Club who cooked and boxed more than 50 hot meals for Thanksgiving and Christmas for Wilton’s seniors;

The Mother-Daughter Leadership group members who delivered the hot meals for Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve;

Wilton Garden Club for preparing the beautiful centerpieces and Pat Russo of the Wilton Rotary Club for delivering the centerpieces to seniors;

The interfaith community, under the leadership of the Wilton Congregational Church, who shopped for gifts for 19 seniors and the Boy Scouts who delivered those gifts;

“Holiday helpers” from the ranks of individual residents, community-based service clubs, local businesses, all the Wilton churches and Temple B’Nai Chaim who provided 103 Wilton children with presents and gift cards to brighten their Hanukah and Christmas holidays;

Ambler Farm for the donation of Christmas trees for 25 families;

Realty 7 for the donation of Christmas trees for five families; and

The Wilton Children’s Day and Wilton Community Nursery schools who collected dozens of hats and mittens.

Your generosity made this holiday season a happy time for our Wilton neighbors in need.

Coming events

For the week of Dec. 30:

Friday, Dec. 30, 10, Feldenkrais with Cathy Paine; 12, Bridge with Eleanor Mihailidis; 12, Introduction to Bridge with Michael Hess; 1:30, Intermediate Bridge with Michael Hess.

Monday, Jan. 2, 26, Senior Center Closed.

Tuesday, Jan. 3, 9:45, BeMoved with Phyllis Hirschfield; 10, Oil and Acrylics with Althea Ericsson; 11, Yoga with Denise O’Hearn; 12, Garden Club and Activity; 12:30, Five Crowns with Nerina Klobas; 2, Chair Yoga at Ogden House.

Wednesday, Jan. 4, 9:30, Sewing at Ogden House; 10, Open Bridge with Michael Hess; 10, Writers with Magdalen Livesey; 10:30, Tai Chi with Joe Alampi; 1, Duplicate Bridge with Lois Bruce; 1, Mah Jongg.

Thursday, Jan. 5, 10, Yoga with Denise O’Hearn; 11-12, Blood Pressure Screening; 12, Lunch; 12:45, Bingo.

The post Senior Center News: Dec. 29 appeared first on Wilton Bulletin.

The spotlight was not only on this year’s Wilton High boys basketball team at last week’s season opener at home.

The Warriors also paid homage to a player who helped take the program to the next level, with a ceremony to honor 2015 graduate Matt Shifrin before the game.

Shifrin, Wilton’s all-time scoring leader with 1,113 points, was joined by his family and former teammates and was presented with a framed game jersey with the inscription:

Matt Shifrin

2011 – 2015

Boys Basketball All-Time Leading Scorer – 1,113 Points

Dedicated December 21, 2016

Shifrin was a four-year varsity player, playing in 89 games over that span, during which the Warriors compiled a record of 56-38. Wilton qualified for the state playoffs four straight years and made the FCIAC tournament three straight years, twice reaching the semifinals.

He was a team captain both his junior and senior seasons, during which he averaged 18 points per game. He was named first-team all-FCIAC and first-team all-state his senior year, as well as all-Metropolitan (Connecticut, New York, New Jersey) second team. He was also an all-state academic first team honoree.

“Even with all of these personal accolades, Matt is known for one thing — and that’s being a winner,” head coach Joel Geriak wrote in remarks for the ceremony, ready by announcer Fran Donovan. “Matt is a major reason why this program has helped turn Wilton into a basketball town. Matt has never been part of a losing season in his career.”

For his career, Shifrin hit 46% of his shots, and made 148 3-pointers — hitting 37% from beyond the arc. He shot 84% at the foul line, sinking 253 of 301 free throws.

Shifrin is currently playing and starting for Kenyon College.

The remarks concluded, “Matt, your #13 will not be worn by anyone in the program as long as coach Geriak is coaching at Wilton High School. Congratulations, Matt — well done and well deserved.”

Matt Shifrin (center) holds a framed game jersey of his #13 during the ceremony to honor him before the start of the Wilton High boys basketball team’s opener last week. Joining him were his fellow senior captains from the 2014-15 Wilton team and head coach Joel Geriak. From the left: Richie Williams, Luke Bingamin, Shifrin, coach Geriak and Scott Shouvlin. — GretchenMcMahonPhotography.com

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The Wilton High girls basketball team fell 2-3 on the season after a 64-42 loss at Norwich Free Academy on Wednesday.

The Warriors were shut out in the first quarter, 21-0, and never climbed out of that early hole.

Claire Gulbin led Wilton with 15 points and four rebounds, and Elizabeth Breslin had 10 points, three rebounds and two steals. Caroline Sweeny finished with nine points, nine rebounds and three blocked shots, while Lauren Robertson had six points and Meaghan Downey added two points.

Wilton got two assists each were Downey, Emily Tuin and Sweeny. Tuin also had four rebounds.

The Warriors return to action next Tuesday when they host Norwalk at 5:30.

Westhill

The Warriors were coming off a 51-32 win over Westhill last Friday in Stamford.
After scoring only 30 points through the first three quarters, the Warriors exploded for 21 points in the fourth quarter to put the game away.

The Warriors notched their first win in FCIAC play, improving to 1-2 in the conference.

Gulbin was again the team’s top scorer, finishing with 18 points, including five 3-pointers. The junior also had seven rebounds, four assists and two steals.

Sweeny also scored in double figures with 15 points, to go along with eight rebounds, two assists and two blocked shots.

Tuin had eight points (two 3-pointers), seven rebounds, one assist, two steals and a blocked shot, and Erica Smith contributed four points and four rebounds.

Breslin had a solid all-around game with two points, five steals, three assists, three rebounds and one blocked shot, while Robertson added two points and four rebounds, and Downey had two points and two rebounds.

Sweeny, Smith and Robertson each had one steal.

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New Year’s Eve is Saturday, Dec. 31, and it is not a federal holiday. New Year’s Day is Sunday, Jan. 1, and it is a federal holiday.

Wilton town offices will be closed Monday, Jan. 2.

Wilton public schools are on winter break and will reopen Tuesday, Jan. 3.

Wilton Library will be closed New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Wilton Senior Center will be closed Monday, Jan. 2.

Wilton Transfer Station will be closed News Year’s Day and Monday, Jan. 2.

Wilton Historical Society will be closed New Year’s Day.

Post offices will be closed New Year’s Day and Monday, Jan. 2.

Banks will be closed Monday, Jan. 2.

Department of Motor Vehicles will be open until 12:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 30, and closed New Year’s Eve.

Many stores and services, such as pharmacies, will have limited hours on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Metro-North will have early getaway service on Friday, Dec. 30, and operate a special schedule on New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31, with extra inbound late-afternoon and early evening service.

The Bulletin will be closed New Year’s Day and Monday, Jan. 2.

Send submissions to editor@wiltonbulletin.com.

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This is the time of year we think about giving, and let’s face it, getting. So here’s an idea. When we give to charitable organizations, we get quite a bit back — from the organizations and from Uncle Sam — and we feel good about it.

Americans gave $373.25 billion in charitable donations last year, according to the National Philanthropic Trust. The largest source of giving was individuals, at $268.28 billion, or 71% of total giving, followed by foundations ($57.19 billion/16%), bequests ($28.72 billion/9%), and corporations ($18.46 billion/5%).

If you are so inclined, there are many organizations right here in Wilton that are deserving of your consideration and your dollars, and there’s still time to do it before the end of the year.

The Norwalk River Valley Trail is growing season by season in Wilton, offering safe opportunities for walking and bicycling year-round. It receives no town funds. To donate, go to nrvt-trail.com and click on Donate.

Visiting Nurse & Hospice of Fairfield County provides charity care for those who cannot afford to pay. Secure donations may be made online at visitingnurse.net.

The Community Assistance Fund is an umbrella organization to help Wilton families in need with heating assistance, rental assistance and the food pantry. Checks may be made payable to Wilton Interfaith Council, 180 School Road, Wilton 06897.

CERT, Wilton’s Community Emergency Response Team, is comprised of volunteers who turn out during emergencies ranging from traffic accidents to major weather events. Monetary gifts pay for equipment and training. Checks may be made out to Wilton CERT and mailed to Wilton Fire Department, 236 Danbury Road, Wilton 06897, attn: Jack Majesky.

A cancer diagnosis is difficult enough, but when that diagnosis is for a child it can be devastating. The Circle of Care offers support to families of children with cancer. Visit thecircleofcare.org and click on Ways to Help.

Also raising money for childhood cancer research is the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. Each year students at Wilton High School shave their heads in exchange for donations. Contribute by visiting stbaldricks.org and searching for a specific participant or for Wilton High School.

In addition to nearly 365 days of service per year, Wilton Library provides knowledge and entertainment in the form of its wide-ranging collection, concerts, art exhibitions, Innovation Station, and many special events. Donations may be made online at www.wiltonlibrary.org, or by mailing a check to Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton 06897.

The Wilton Volunteer Ambulance Corps is an independent, nonprofit organization providing 911 emergency ambulance coverage 24/7 in Wilton. It receives only modest support from the town. To donate, send a check made payable to Wilton Volunteer Ambulance Corps to 234 Danbury Road, Wilton 06897.

More worthy organizations:

Wilton Land Trust: wiltonlandtrust.org.

Wilton Historical Society: wiltonhistorical.org or 203-762-7257.

Wilton Educational Foundation: wiltoneducationfoundation.org.

Meals on Wheels: 203-762-0566.

Wilton Playshop: wiltonplayshop.org.

Ambler Farm: amblerfarm.org or send a check to Friends of Ambler Farm, P.O. Box 7442, Wilton 06897.

Woodcock Nature Center: woodcocknaturecenter.org.

Wilton Family YMCA: wiltonymca.org.

Trackside Teen Center: 203-824-2888.

The Wilton unit of the Salvation Army: Wilton Unit, Salvation Army, c/o Nancy Milnamow, 35 Woods End Drive, Wilton CT 06897.

FISH transportation service: checks made out to FISH may be sent to Walt Misdom, 44 Village Court, Wilton 06897.

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