acorns

Town report hard copies available

If anyone is interested in a hard copy of the 2025 Annual Town report for FY2025, please stop by the Town Administrator’s office while supplies last. The report is also available online here. For additional materials relating to the Annual Town Meeting on March 29, click here.

LLCT/RLF events

The Lincoln Land Conservation Trust and Rural Land Foundation are hosting these upcoming Zoom events:

“Emerson’s Nature”
Tuesday, March 10 at 7:00pm
Ron McAdow reads selected excerpts from Emerson’s Nature, pairing the words with his own photographs of Lincoln’s landscapes. More info and Zoom link.

“Pocket Forests”
Tuesday, March 24 at 7:00pm
Discover how small, densely planted native forests can transform neighborhoods. Rachel Summers shares how pocket forests restore biodiversity, improve soil, and create thriving habitat in surprisingly small spaces. More info and Zoom link.

Blues/Latin music at First Parish

The Town Clerk’s office is looking for more people interested in becoming poll workers. There will be three elections this year, the first being the Annual Town Election on Monday, March 30. Training is provided. This is a great way to support the election process and become part of a team meeting new neighbors and friends. If interested, please email foxv@lincolntown.org.

SpongeBob musical coming up

The Doomsday Clock is ticking, with Mount Humongous threatening to erupt and destroy Bikini Bottom! Plankton and Krabs are scheming, everyone is panicking, neighbors are turning on each other… can SpongeBob, Sandy, and Patrick save the town? “The SpongeBob Musical, Youth Edition” will be performed in the Donaldson auditorium by the Lincoln School middle schoolers on four days next week:

• Wednesday, March 11 at 3:00pm
• Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, March 12-14 at 7:00pm

Tickets are general admission and available at the door from 30 minutes before showtime ($10 for adults or $5 for students, seniors, and LPS employees. Cash or check only.  

Classical concert in Bemis on Sunday

Lincoln members of the Concord Music Club invite everyone to their annual free public concert for Lincoln neighbors and friends on Sunday, March 1 at 2:00pm in Bemis Hall. The varied program includes works for violin, string quartet and piano by Chopin, Schubert, Beethoven, Mozart, Prokofiev, and Brahms.

Singing Resistance rescheduled for March 2

Singing Resistance, postponed from Feb. 23 due to the blizzard, will take place on Monday, March 2 at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church starting at 6:00pm. There will be pizzas, but bring a water bottle. At about 6:30pm, we’ll talk a bit about the movement, then we’ll sing together. This is a group open to all who wish to deepen into community.

Concerts with Lincoln and Sudbury students

The Lincoln and Sudbury Schools present the All Towns Concert Series bringing together student musicians from Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School, Ephraim Curtis Middle School, and Lincoln Middle School for three consecutive nights of performances starting on Monday, March 2 in the L-S auditorium. The series offers a unique “musical vertical” experience, allowing audiences to hear the progression from middle school through high school. Each evening features individual sets from each school’s ensembles, culminating in a combined grand finale where all three schools perform together on stage. All performances are free and open to the public.

• Monday, March 2 at 7:00pm — All Towns Band Concert
• Tuesday, March 3 at 7:00pm — All Towns Orchestra Concert
• Wednesday, March 4 at 7:00pm — All Towns Choir Concert

Coming up at the library

Click here for information about all events at the library or subscribe to the Library Linc weekly e-newsletter.

Craft & Chill: Watercolor Bird Cards
Monday, March 2 from 4:00-5:00pm, Tarbell Room
These crafts are for giving yourself a mental break and just having some fun with other chill adults. All supplies are provided by the library. For ages 16+. Register here.

Read to a Retriever
Thursday, March 5 from 4:00-4:55pm, Tarbell Room
Practice reading in a supportive environment with a certified therapy dog! Join Abigail, a six-year-old “Pets and People” certified therapy dog, for a one-on-one 15-minute reading session. Abigail is friendly, calm, and non-judgmental, helping young readers build confidence and strengthen literacy skills. This program is intended for emerging readers 5+ (please register for only one session).

“Crimson Courageous”
Thursday, March 5 from 6:30–7:30pm, Tarbell Room
Christine Omodi-Engola will read from her book, Crimson Courageous: Ibed Gi Chir. Through poetry, she outlines the worlds of work-life balance, family interaction, and day-to-day goings-on in Massachusetts.

Film: “Memories Flow Beneath It: From Valley to Quabbin”
Saturday, March 21 from 1:00–3:00pm, Tarbell Room
Local filmmaker Roger Hagopian presents his documentary film, “Memories Flow Beneath It: From Valley to Quabbin,” that traces the displacement of people and the loss of a way of life in the Swift River Valley of western Massachusetts, when the Quabbin Reservoir flooded four towns in order to create water infrastructure for 52 Boston metropolitan communities. More information.

Craft Supply Swap
Saturday, March 21 from 12:30-3:30pm, Reference Room
Do you have gift wrap supplies that you’ve had for years but are hoping to swap them out for something new? Bring them to the library to swap for new-to-you supplies! Donations are not required to participate. More information (no registration required).

Silent auction to benefit LSF

Bidding is open for Lincoln School Foundation‘s silent auction held in conjunction with the Lincoln Lounge benefit evening at the Pierce House on Saturday, March 7 from 7:00–10:00pm. Items up for bids include Colonial Theater tickets, a three-night Vermont getaway, kids’ birthday parties and summer camps, restaurant meals, Red Sox tickets, a private pizza-making party at Codman Farm, and an artist-led paint night at Clark Gallery. All proceeds support LSF’s annual grants, empowering Lincoln and Hanscom teachers to expand classroom experiences and create innovative learning opportunities for students. Browse and bid here. The auction closes at the end of the event on March 7.

High Maintenance Jug Band at LOMA

High Maintenance Jug Band is the headliner at the next Lincoln Open Mic Acoustic (LOMA) on Monday, March 9 from 7–10 p.m. in Bemis Hall. Bill McQuaid sings traditional, country blues, Celtic, and original songs, and he trades vocals and harmonies with Ed Loechler, who plays a variety of uncommon instruments including resophonic guitar, steel mandolin, and demijohn bottle. Hear their performance on YouTube of “She Done Sold It Out.” LOMA is a monthly open mike night event with mikes and instrumental pickups suitable for individuals or small groups playing acoustic-style. Come and perform (email loma3re@gmail.com to sign up) or just come listen to acoustic music and spoken word. Free admission.

COA&HS Lincoln Academy events

Here are some of the March activities hosted by the Lincoln Council on Aging and Human Services. Most events are open to Lincoln residents of all ages. For a full list — including clinics, exercise classes, regular meetings of interest groups, and online chats with town officials — see the COAHS’s newsletter page. Call 781-259-8811 or email gagnea@lincolntown.org for Zoom links and other information.

What is Regenerative Farming?
Friday, March 6 at 12:30pm, Bemis Hall
Farm manager Pete Lowy of Codman Community Farms describes Codman’s sustainable farming practices. These techniques preserve open spaces, protect our environment, promote more nutrient dense foods and help mitigate effects of climate change.

130 Years of the Boston Marathon
Friday, March 13 at 12:30pm, Bemis Hall
Freelance journalist Paul Clerici takes you through the colorful and historic years of the Boston Marathon — mile by mile, town by town, story by story. Sponsored by Friends of Lincoln Council on Aging & Friends of Lincoln Library.

Train Journeys of a Lifetime
Friday, March 20 at 12:30pm, Bemis Hall
Travel writer Everett Potter, author of National Geographic’s 100 Train Journeys of a Lifetime, offers pictures, stories, and itineraries to celebrate the 200th anniversary of rail travel. Discover train travel and why there is a current resurgence.

Lincoln’s Invaluable Vernal Pools
Friday, March 27 at 12:30pm, Bemis Hall
Michele Grzenda, Conservation Department Director, brings you on an immersive journey to share the spring awakening of the woodland wetlands — critical breeding grounds for amphibians.

MCC sponsors middle school hoops tourney

Lincoln kids fielded from both Lincoln and Hanscom middle schools can play with Boston-based peers in the first annual middle school 3v3 tournament on Sunday, March 15 from 2:30–5:30pm at the Kroc Community Center (650 Dudley St., Boston). Sponsored by the Lincoln METCO Coordinating Committee. Carpooling available. No entry fee; snacks and prizes provided. Bots and girls in grades 5–8 are eligible; sign up here by Tuesday, March 10.

Family movie night

First Parish in Lincoln (stone church) is hosting a family movie night with pizza and popcorn on Thursday, Feb. 26 at 5:30pm, with the movie “Zootopia 2” screening at 6:00pm. There will be refreshments and cheese board for adults as well as gluten-free options. Organizers are also collecting diapers for the Metro-Boston Diaper Drive (loose or in packages). Click here to RSVP by Wednesday, Feb. 25 at 2:00 pm and make a suggested donation of $10/family to help cover food costs. (Note: This is not a drop-off event.)

Mocktails at the library

Aiming to keep those New Year’s resolutions but finding mocktails a bit boring? Come to the library’s Tarbell Room on Saturday, Feb. 28 from 2:30–3:30pm to mix up some new recipes and maybe find your new favorite drink. All ingredients will be provided. Registration required.

Spring/summer outdoor volunteer opportunities

Looking for an opportunity to give back to your community? Join the Lincoln Conservation Crew and help steward the trails and conservation areas of Lincoln. These volunteer events are hosted by the Conservation Department and the Lincoln Land Conservation Trust. Workdays focus on a range of stewardship tasks such as invasive plant management, data collection, native plant restoration, and trail maintenance. Click on a date for more information and to sign up.

• Friday, March 20 from 1:00 to 3:00pm — Beaver Pond 
• Friday, April 10 from 1:00 to 3:00pm — Sandy Pond Trust
• Saturday, May 9 from 9:00am to noon — Beaver Pond
• Friday, June 5 from 1:00 to 3:00pm — Codman South
• Friday, July 17 from 1:00 to 4:00pm — Sudbury River (signup deadline: July 10)
• Saturday, Aug. 15 from 9:00am to noon — Mt. Misery 

Quirk promoted at The Commons

Nina Quirk

The Commons in Lincoln has promoted Nina Quirk to Campus Culinary Services Director. In her elevated role, Nina will oversee culinary services across The Commons in Lincoln’s entire campus, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and the health center. She previously oversaw dining for the independent living neighborhood.

“Nina’s passion for quality ingredients, creativity, and meaningful resident connections has helped redefine dining at The Commons,” said Campus Executive Director Reynaldo LeBlanc. Quirk, who has been at The Commons since 2023, holds a master’s degree in gastronomy from Boston University.

Info session on library HVAC issue

The Select Board will hold an information session during its meeting on Monday, March 9 at 7:00pm to discuss the Lincoln Public Library’s HVAC system, whose replacement is the subject of two articles at the upcoming Annual Town Meeting on March 28 (a draft list of warrant articles is now available). The agenda and Zoom link will be posted in advance of the meeting here.

Articles 7 and 8 ask whether the town should appropriate funds to replace the HVAC system with a ground source heat pump solution or pursue a more conventional system replacement. Residents are encouraged to attend to learn more about the proposal and the options considered, and to ask questions before Town Meeting. More information:

• Project overview and materials
• “Bemis Hall closed due to boiler failure; library also needs new HVAC” (Lincoln Squirrel, Feb. 1, 2026)

Evelyn Turner, 1945–2026

A graveside service was held on Feb. 17 for Evelyn Turner, who died on Feb. 6 at age 80. More information.

(Editor’s note: Full obituaries with photos are published in the Lincoln Squirrel for a fee paid by the funeral home. Please email lincolnsquirrelnews@gmail.com for details.)

Lincoln Democrats to caucus on Feb. 28

The Lincoln Democratic Town Committee is encouraging all registered Democrats in Lincoln to come to the annual town caucus to elect delegates for the state convention on May 29–30. Lincoln will choose five delegates and four alternates who will have the opportunity to vote on critical issues coming before the convention and ultimately the voters in November 2026.

The caucus is Saturday, Feb. 28. Doors open at 9:30am for registration and refreshments and the meeting starts at 10:00am (doors close at 10:15am). Democrats who will be 16 by February 4, 2026 may pre-register for the caucus and participate and run as a delegate or alternate to the convention. Youth, minorities, people with disabilities, and LGBTQ people who are not elected as a delegate or alternate may apply to be an add-on delegate to the caucus or at www.massdems.org. Questions? Email Travis Roland, LDTC chair, at lincolnmadems@gmail.com. Follow them on Instagram: @lincolnmadems.

First Parish talent show

All are invited to the third annual First Parish in Lincoln Talent Show on Saturday, Feb. 28 at 7:00pm in the stone church. There will be standup, songs, group numbers, poetry, flute, clarinet, and more. Admission free but organizers welcome donations to benefit LUCE Immigrant Justice Network of Massachusetts.

Volunteer training offered by DVSN

Domestic Violence Services Network, Inc. (DVSN) is offering a free volunteer advocate training program for interested community members. DVSN advocates provide emotional support, risk assessment, and safety planning for victims of domestic violence in its 13 partner communities. The 40-hour training is designed to familiarize volunteers with the many aspects of domestic violence and give them the skills necessary to provide confidential and appropriate services to DVSN’s clients. Once trained, volunteer advocates provide direct service over the phone, at Concord District Court, and at Emerson Hospital to people affected by domestic violence.

The training will be held at the Lexington Police Department on Mondays and Wednesdays, March 2–20 from 4:00–7:15pm, and Fridays from 9:15am–3:30pm. For those who decide to activate as volunteer advocates, there is an additional 10–12 hours of supervised field training. For more information or to request an application, call 978-318-3421 or send an e-mail to training@dvsn.org. Applications are due by Wednesday, Feb. 18.

Apply for scholarships from LSC

The Lincoln Scholarship Committee (LSC) is now accepting applications for scholarships and awards through Tuesday, March 31. Click here for details on the available scholarships and awards, and apply here. Questions? Email lincolnscholarship@lincolntown.org. 

Volunteer needed for Housing Commission 

The Select Board is seeking an interested volunteer to serve a three-year term as an appointed member on the Lincoln Housing Commission to fill an immediate vacancy. Lincoln residents who have demonstrated interest or engagement in issues concerning housing, affordable housing, property development and/or management, local policy, land use, or related topics are encouraged to apply. Commission members meet once a month.

Letters of interest should be addressed to Select Board Chair Jennifer Glass and sent to Peggy Elder, administrative assistant in the Select Board’s Office (elderp@lincolntown.org) along with a completed volunteer application by Wednesday, April 15. Applicants are also encouraged to attend a Housing Commission meeting, held on the first Thursday of the month. The Select Board will interview and appoint candidates at its April 27 meeting. For more information, call the Select Board’s Office at 781-259-2601.

Service opportunity for Lincoln teens

Does a teenager you know like working with their hands or with a group? Do they like helping people in need? Do they need service hours for school? If the answer to any of these is yes, your teen in grade 8–12 is invited to join students from First Parish in Lincoln’s youth service group for a half day of service at Household Goods in Acton on Feb. 28. 

Household Goods is a nonprofit that distributes donated furniture, kitchenware, mattresses, lamps and other goods to people in need. Volunteer teens will be helping people leaving homeless shelters or domestic abuse situations, unhoused veterans, people with disabilities, and others. Tasks might include loading trucks, cleaning furniture, stocking the showroom, organizing kitchenware, or sorting donations.

Teens will leave together from the First Parish stone church on Saturday, Feb. 28 at 12:15pm and return at 4:30pm. Volunteer don’t need to be members of the church, but they are responsible for bringing their own school community service form. Register here. Questions? Contact Lora Venesy at lora@fplincoln.org or Chris Andrysiak at chris.andrysiak@gmail.com.

Community center site about to go vertical

The community center construction site earlier this month.

Structural steel installation is expected to begin next week, a development that moves the project into the start of framing and above‑grade construction. Progress will be very visible and move fast. See the CCBC website for more pictures.

All work will remain fully contained within the construction site perimeter, and there will be no changes to parking lot access, Hartwell access, or any pedestrian routes. Material deliveries are planned for early mornings to avoid busy times such as daycare dropoff and school traffic. There are expected to be two to three days of early deliveries for steel members and decking. Delivery trucks will be escorted by crew members when exiting the site to ensure safety and smooth traffic movement.

Drumlin Farm seeks more sugar maples

As a result of climate change, the area is experiencing milder winters and earlier, more unpredictable spring thaws which are resulting in challenging maple sugaring seasons and lower sap yields. In order for Drumlin Farm to continue to produce enough syrup to support its educational goals, the farm is seeking to tap additional trees in Lincoln this season

An ideal site would have at least five trees and a place to park a pickup truck close to the trees for carrying out buckets of sap. Trees are large enough to be tapped if they have a diameter of at least a foot (an easy way to tell is to hug the tree — if your arms overlap, it’s still too young). The trees would be tapped by experienced staff who would return every few days throughout the maple season to check and collect the sap. The season lasts a maximum of 6six weeks from February through March (specific dates depend on weather conditions). As a thank-you for sharing your trees, you’d receive a bottle of the maple syrup, as well as admission to Drumlin’s Maple Magic program. If you’d like to participate, email dfgrower@massaudubon.org.

Lincoln School Foundation benefit evening

The Lincoln School Foundation invites residents to Lincoln Lounge on Saturday, March 7 from 7:00–10:00pm at the Pierce House to support teachers, administrators, and students at both the Lincoln and Hanscom school campuses. Enjoy a wine-tasting with Ansonia Wines, bid on silent auction items (going live one week before the event), listen to live music from the Mike Caudill Trio, have your photo taken with Corey Flint Photography, and experience a touch of magic with the Sage Raven tarot card reader. Participation helps fund teacher-driven grants that expand classroom possibilities, support professional growth, and help every student thrive. For adults 21+ only. Buy tickets here.

EV charging station aided by grant

The Lincoln Public Schools have been selected for the MassCEC (Massachusetts Clean Energy Center)’s first-of-its-kind Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) Demonstration program, according to a release from MassCEC. Selected participants (five school districts, four municipal districts and 30 state residents) will receive bi-directional electric vehicle (EV) chargers at no cost.

The program will help to accelerate the adoption of V2X technologies, which, at scale, can lower energy bills by reducing energy demand during expensive peak periods and limiting the need for new grid infrastructure. Lincoln is using its grant to build an EV charging station for use by school buses and vehicles in the commuter parking lot.

Bi-directional charging enables EV batteries to both draw power from and return power to the grid or to buildings. This functionality enables EVs, including electric buses and trucks, to provide backup power during outages and alleviate pressure on the grid during peak energy demand. These bi-directional chargers will enable EVs to act as mobile energy storage assets, with the program expected to deliver over 1mW of power back to the grid during a demand response event — enough to offset the electricity use of 300 average American homes for an hour.

Obituaries

• A memorial service for Ralph “Randy” Earle III, who died on December 26, 2025, will be held on Saturday, Feb. 28 at 11:00am at the Weston Art & Innovation Center (356 Boston Post Road, Weston). More information.

• Dorothy Goodman passed away peacefully surrounded by her daughters on Jan. 26 at the age of 95. More information.

(Editor’s note: Full obituaries with photos are published in the Lincoln Squirrel for a fee paid by the funeral home. Please email lincolnsquirrelnews@gmail.com for details.)

Lincoln Arts and Farmers Valentine’s Market

Click here for details on vendors selling Valentine’s gifts on Saturday, Feb. 7 from 9:00am–1:00pm at the Pierce House.

Celebrate Lunar New Year

First Parish in Lincoln welcomes back the Nüwa Athletic Club to celebrate the Lunar New Year and welcome the Year of the Horse on Saturday, Feb. 7 from 10:00am-noon at the Parish House (14 Bedford Road). They will perform a traditional lion dance and provide a fun workshop for kids of all ages afterward. All ages and abilities are welcome.

Benefit concert for emergency immigrant support 

A concert featuring the Honey Steelers on Sunday, Feb. 8 from 2:30–4:30pm at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church. Tickets available at the door; suggested donation of $20 (free for children). Refreshments and raffle ticket included. Co-sponsored by Lincoln Witness and St. Anne’s-in-the-Fields’ Social Justice Commission, with support from the First Parish Lincoln Racial Justice Committee and other generous contributors. All donations support immigrants through the Waltham-based Fuerza Emergency Interfaith Fund. For details and how to donate for those unable to attend, click here. 

“Baby & Me” meetup

LincFam is hosting its next “Baby & Me” walk for new and expecting parents on Sunday, Feb. 8 at 1:00pm in the Town Hall’s Donaldson Room to help families with young children meet other parents in the community. Registration requested but not required at Lincfam.org. Updates will be posted on the website and in LincFam’s New & Expecting Parents WhatsApp chat. Questions? Call Emily at 207-712-7363.

Two speed-dating events

The Councils on Aging of Belmont, Concord, Lexington, and Lincoln are teaming up to offer Valentine’s Senior Speed Dating for seniors age 65+ on Wednesday, Feb. 11 at 10:45am at the Belmont Council on Aging (266 Beech St., Belmont). You’ll meet up to 11 other local, single seniors through a series of six-minute “pre-dates.” After the event, organizers will contact you to let you know if you’ve made a match (more than two-thirds of speed daters match at least one person). Space is limited; call 781-259-8811 to sign up. 

Friend Speed Dating is a low-key social event designed to help adults age 20–45 make new friends on Thursday, Feb. 12 from 6:30-7:30pm in the Lincoln Public Library’s Tarbell Room. During this event, you’ll spend three minutes talking to each of the other attendees, followed by time for light refreshments and the opportunity to continue chatting over crafts and a puzzle. Registration recommended but not required.

Library activities for kids

All activities are in the Tarbell Room. Click on an event title for more information. No registration required unless otherwise indicated.

Songs with Seth
Wednesday, Feb. 4 at 10:30am

February Fiddle Fun
Saturday, Feb. 7 from 2:00–2:45pm

Science Challenge Fun
Monday, Feb. 9 at 4:00pm (registration required)

Valentine’s Dance Party
Saturday, Feb. 14 from 10:30–11:15am

Vacation week activities:

Puppet Playtime & Storytime with Nicola the Puppeteer
Tuesday, Feb. 17 from 10:30–11:15am

Hip Hop Xpression Dance Class
Wednesday, Feb. 18 from 11:00–11:45am

Big Ryan’s Mystery Rooms presents Alien Escape
Wednesday, Feb. 18 from 4:00–5:00pm (registration required) 

GearTicks Robotics Demonstration
Thursday, Feb. 19 from 4:00–5:00pm

Lego Club
Friday, Feb. 20 from 1:00–3:00pm

Coming up at the library for adults

Click on an event title for more information. No registration required unless otherwise indicated.

1890s: Gilded Age Fashion
Friday, Feb. 13 from 12:30–2:00pm, Bemis Hall
While dressing in vintage and reproduced undergarments, clothing, and accessories, Kandie Carle adds humor, history and intriguing anecdotes about fashion, home life and etiquette of men and women during the Gilded Age.

A First-hand Look at Second-hand Books
Wednesday, Feb. 18 from 6:00–7:30pm, Tarbell Room
Ken Gloss of the Brattle Book Shop will talk about some of his favorite finds and the joys of the hunt. He will also give free verbal appraisals of books that attendees have brought in.

Film: “Growing through Covid-19”
Saturday, Feb. 21 from 6:00–7:30pm, Tarbell Room
A documentary telling the dramatic story of the 144-year-old family-run Russell’s Garden Center during the pandemic.

Burglary at the Louvre: How Can Writers Top This?
Wednesday, Feb. 25 from 7:00-8:00pm (Zoom)
This program is in partnership with the Tewksbury Public Library. Click here to register.

Subscribe to the weekly Library Linc to learn about the latest events, services, and news at the Lincoln Public Library.

Concert: “A Glittering Embrace”

On Sunday, Feb. 22 at 7:30pm in Bemis Hall, Lincoln pianist Diane Katzenberg Braun accompanies award-winning Music Street musicians in a unique instrumental and vocal concert including Georgian folk tunes, Leonard Bernstein’s Candide, romantic Amy Beach and Rachmaninoff, jazzy Bolcom, and more.

Town offices closed Monday

All non-essential town departments/offices will be closed Monday due to the snowstorm. Some of our employees will be available by e-mail. Normal hours of operation will resume Tuesday morning.

The public safety and public works operations will be fully staffed throughout the storm. The Public Works Department can be reached at 259-8999. The Police Department can be reached at 259-8113 for routine matters (and of course, for emergencies, dial 911). In case of power outages, our public safety team will attempt to coordinate with Eversource to ensure that any emergency conditions receive priority attention.

Activities hosted by the library

“Creating a Modern Homestead”
Monday, Jan. 26 from 7:00–8:00 pm via Zoom
Modern-day homesteader, blogger, and author Victoria Pruett will chat about her book Creating a Modern Homestead: Traditional Skills for Real, Everyday Life. She’ll walk through various aspects of homesteading and cover simple life changes to get closer to nature and less dependent on large commercial organizations. This program is in partnership with the Ashland Public Library. Register here.

The Dudleys and the Howards with Authors Joanne Paul and Nicola Clark
Thursday, Jan. 29 from 10:00–11:30am via Zoom
Join authors and historians Joanne Paul and Nicola Clark as they discuss their books, The House of Dudley:  New History of Tudor England and The Waiting Game: The Untold Story of the Women Who Served the Tudor Queens. This program is in partnership with the Ashland Public Library. More information and registration here.

February Fiddle Fun
Saturday, Feb. 7 from 2:00–2:45pm, Tarbell Room
Fiddlers Julia Sullivan and Alanna Widman will play music from Ireland and other Celtic countries. Julia and Alanna (Tryder) both grew up in Lincoln and they have been fiddling since they were 5. Julia’s sons Finbar and Owen will make a special appearance, as will Alanna’s son Walter. This event is designed for families, but music lovers of all ages are welcome.

Steve Heck with Teri Coate at next LOMA

Steve Heck

Noted piano player Steve Heck with Teri Coate are the headliners at the next Lincoln Open Mic Acoustic (LOMA) on Monday, Feb. 9 from 7–10 p.m. in Bemis Hall. Here’s a video of him at Berklee College with Chris Emkey playing an intricate, boogie-woogie duet, “Rockin’ Pneumonia.” LOMA is a monthly open mike night event with mikes and instrumental pickups suitable for individuals or small groups playing acoustic-style. Come and perform (email loma3re@gmail.com to sign up) or just come listen to acoustic music and spoken word. Free admission.

A boy checks out the community center construction equipment from his perch in the Magic Garden Children’s Center.

Community Center work progresses

The new Community Center foundation is near completion, and workers are excavating and installing underground utilities across the front sections of the site. Steel installation and framing will start in February. For more information and photos, see the Community Center Building Committee website.

Outdoor winter scavenger hunt

Can you find all four “tree-mendous” deer recently spotted on Lincoln Conservation Land? Each deer has been carefully placed in a scenic spot — use these descriptions and photo clues to guide your search. When you spot one, feel free to snap a photo of you (and/or your family) with the deer and share your discovery with the Lincoln Conservation Department here. It’s the perfect winter adventure for families and a great way to explore our town’s conservation land. Questions? Email conservation@lincolntown.org.

Webinar on estate planning for parents

LincFam is hosting its second collaboration with Parents Estate Planning Law Firm on Thursday, Jan. 22 at 8:00pm via Zoom. Learn how to ensure your kids are cared for by the short- and long-term guardians you trust, how to navigate essential documents, how to avoid probate court, and how to pass on your story, values, guidance, and advice to the people you love the most. Open to all.  Register here.

Jan. 26 deadline for Town Meeting petitions 

The deadline for submitting citizen petitions for the March 28, 2026, Annual Town Meeting is Monday, Jan. 26 at 9:00am. The Select Board  began accepting petitions on Jan. 12 when they voted to open the warrant. Citizens who may be considering sponsoring a Town Meeting petition are strongly urged to contact the Town Clerk’s Office (781-259-2607 or foxv@lincolntown.org) for guidance about the process. They will contact the people identified as lead petitioners to ensure coordination as officials prepare for the discussions and presentations that will be occurring in advance of Town Meeting. The Select Board’s office (781-259-2601 or elderp@lincolntown.org) is also available to assist. 

“Inside the Sensorium”

Neuroscience meets music, plants, and perfume in “Inside the Sensorium: What Science Can Bring to the Senses,” which explores how scientists and artists turn life Into sound and scents on Tuesday, Jan. 27 from 6:00–9:00pm at the deCordova Museum. Hungry Ninja in Newton is providing vegan rice and ramen bowls for dinner, available for pre-order or for purchase at the event (limited supply). Free, but donations and/or dinner purchase are encouraged. Register here. Sponsored by Catalyst Conversations, a Cambridge nonprofit.

Webinar on going green

Domestic violence service group offers volunteer training

The Domestic Violence Services Network, Inc. (DVSN) is offering a free 40-hour training to familiarize volunteers with the many aspects of domestic violence and give them the skills necessary to provide confidential and appropriate services to DVSN’s clients. Once trained, DVSN’s volunteer advocates provide direct service over the phone, at Concord District Court, and at Emerson Hospital to people affected by domestic violence. Advocates provide emotional support, risk assessment and safety planning for victims of domestic violence in 13 communities.

The training will be held at the Lexington Police Department from March 2–20 on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4:00–7:15pm and Fridays from 9:15am–3:30pm. For those who decide to activate as volunteer advocates, there is an additional 10–12 hours of supervised field training. For more information about the training or to request an application, call 978-318-3421 or e-mail training@dvsn.org. Applications are due by Wednesday, Feb. 18.

Coming up at the Council on Aging & Human Services

AI For Seniors: The Benefits & Pitfalls
Friday, Jan. 16 at 12:30pm, Bemis Hall
Henry Quinlan will bring an engaging presentation into the world of artificial intelligence (AI). He will cover what AI is, some of the benefits, and potential dangers. Attendees will learn about the most popular AI tools and their accuracy and reliability, and see a practical demo.

Film screening: “Selma” (2014)
Friday, Jan. 23 at 12:30pm, Bemis Hall
A chronicle of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s campaign to secure equal voting rights via an epic march from Selma to Montgomery, Ala., in 1965. Directed by Ava DuVernay.

Activities at Codman Community Farms

Click on an event title for more information and registration. 

Sunday Supper
Sunday, Jan. 25

Soup Making 101
Wednesday, Jan. 28

Cozy Story Time in the Greenhouse with Sarah Bishop
Saturday, Jan. 31

Pizza in the Pavilion
Thursday, Feb. 5

Summer Barn Buddies
Twelve one-week sessions from 9:00am–1:00pm starting on June 15. Click here for more information and registration. 

Quilt exhibit closing reception

Winners of the silent auction for the quilts that have bene on display in the Lincoln Public Library in January will be announced at the exhibit’s closing reception on Friday, Jan. 30 from 3:00–5:00pm. Proceeds will go to the successful bidder’s charity of choice. Questions? Call Tricia Deck at 781-223-8983.

CFREE tip: Benefits of a shift to plant-based foods (serving #1 of 12)

Editor’s note: This is “Serving 1” in a series of 12 items on the benefits of a shift to plant-based foods, which in turn comprise CFREE tip #9. To view the full series, click here.

Reducing the carbon footprint of humans is critical to preserving the viability of Earth. One of the few things affecting the climate that we as individuals can control, and one of the most important, is what we eat. A plant-based diet is healthier for us — the medical community is united on that. And climate scientists say with one voice that it is also healthier for the planet. In the graph below, notice the trifling impact of plant-based proteins (in green) on our world.

Orange represents animal products and green represents plant foods. Figures are the mean of greenhouse gas emission ranges across thousands of farms studied. Source: Canary Media/Science.

CFREE (Carbon Free Residential — Everything Electric) is a subcommittee of the Lincoln Green Energy Committee that provides guidance on how households can reduce use of fossil fuels and decrease greenhouse gas emissions to help Massachusetts meet statewide emissions limits set for 2030, 2040, and 2050. It also provides information about state and federal incentives that help reduce the cost of such changes. For guidance on such projects at your home, email lincolngreencoach@gmail.com.

Public forum on Dark Skies Initiative

The Dark Skies Committee, a subcommittee of the Lincoln Planning Board, will hold a public information forum on Thursday, Jan. 15 at 7:30pm in the Donaldson Room in the Town Hall and via Zoom. The discussion will center on the effects of nocturnal lighting on wildlife, insects, and humans, and on what can be done to mitigate its negative effects while promoting safe lighting practices. The committee will also address possible bylaw changes that could move the town towards compliance with guidelines in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Dark Skies Initiative.

Library happenings

The Lincoln Quilt Group members (Nancy Constable, Anne Crosby, Tricia Deck, Linda MacNeil, Victoria Mielke, Margaret Olson, Lucy Sachs, Kathleen Sacknoff, Jane Solar, and Dilla Tingley) are showing their quilts in the Lincoln Library gallery for the month of January. The quilts will be offered for sale in a silent auction, and proceeds will go to the successful bidder’s charity of choice. Bids will close on Thursday, Jan. 29 and winners will be announced at the closing reception to be held on Friday, Jan. 30 from 3:00–5:00pm. Instructions for bidding are on the table just inside the entryway. Questions? Call Tricia Deck at 781-223-8983.

Also coming up:

Superspy Science: Science, Death & Tech in the World of James Bond
Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2:00-3:00pm (Zoom)
Author Dr. Kathryn Harkup, writer, science communicator and vampirologist, will discuss the science behind James Bond’s exploits, including armaments, tactics, plots and enemy tech, outlined in her book. Register here.

Wildlife Out Your Window
Saturday, Jan. 17, 1:30–2:30pm, Tarbell Room
Join us for an author event with Brad Timm on his book, Wildlife Out Your Window: Fascinating Facts About 100 Animals Commonly Seen in the Northeastern U.S. Did you know that blue jay feathers aren’t actually blue, or that some foxes can climb trees? Brad, a wildlife ecologist and the founder and executive director of the Northeast Wildlife Team, will share some of his favorite facts from the book, discuss simple actions each of us can take to help wildlife around us, and answer your wildlife questions.

How Librarians Became the Unlikely Spies of World War II
Wednesday, Jan. 21, 7:00–8:00pm, Zoom
Author Elyse Graham will discuss her new book, Book and Dagger: How Scholars and Librarians Became the Unlikely Spies of World War II, the true untold story of the academics who became OSS spies, invented modern spycraft, and helped turn the tide of the war to defeat the Nazis. Register here.

Drop-in Craft: Make a Vision Board
Saturday, Jan. 24, 12:00–3:00pm
Stop by the Reference Room and create your own vision board. This is a drop-in craft and all materials will be provided — just bring your goals and dreams for the year! Ages 10 and up. 

Pop-Up Art School: Night Sky with Trees
Wednesday, Jan. 28, 5:30–7:00pm
Paint a star-filled night sky with silhouettes of a hillside and trees. Ages 13+. Register here.

Hospice volunteer training

Care Dimensions is offering training for this interested in becoming hospice volunteers and offering companionship and support to patients and families, usually in their homes or at the hospice house in Lincoln. Training is on Monday and Wednesday mornings from Feb. 23 to March 11 via Zoom. Click here to register by February 13 or email volunteerinfo@caredimensions.org to learn more.

Movie: “A Squirrel’s Guide to Success”

Come to the Lincoln Land Conservation Trust office above the Tack Room on Thursday, Jan. 29 to see a Nature/PBS production about squirrels’ problem-solving skills, acrobatic maneuvers, and more. Free; all ages welcome. RSVP here.

Book discussion with Minute Men

All are invited to join the Lincoln Minute Men for their next book group event, a discussion of Alfred Young’s The Shoemaker and the Tea Party: Memory and the American Revolution on Sunday, Feb. 8 at 2:30 in the Lincoln Public Library’s Tarbell Room. The book examines the role of George Robert Twelves Hewes, who participated in key events of the American Revolution. Purchase a copy or order one to borrow from the Minuteman Library Network.