The Lincoln Squirrel – News, features and photos from Lincoln, Mass.

charity/volunteer

News acorns

 Park & Rec seeks new member

The Lincoln Parks & Recreation Committee has an open seat and is seeking a resident to fill it ASAP. The term of service would be through March 2019.  We are accepting applications through Friday, April 14. Anyone interested in serving on the committee should fill out the town volunteer form and return it to Peggy Elder in the Selectman’s Office by April 14.

Tick season is here

The Board of Health urges residents to take precautions against deer tick bites, which can cause Lyne disease and other ailments. Preventive measures and tick removal guidelines can be found here.

Volunteers, artists sought for Lincoln Arts Show

The second annual Lincoln Arts Show on Patriots Day Weekend at Bemis Hall is still seeking volunteers for setup, hosting during the show, reception, and take-down. Contact Sarah Chester at schester636@gmail.com. The show is also still accepting entries until Monday, April 10. Click here for entry forms. Come see paintings, photography, ceramics, hand crafts, etc., created by your Lincoln friends and neighbors. Free admission. The opening reception is Saturday, April 15 from 5–6:30 p.m. Show times are:

  • Saturday, April 15 from 12–5 p.m.
  • Sunday, April 16 from 1–5 p.m.
  • Monday, April 17 from 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Sponsored by the Lincoln Parks and Recreation Department and the Council on Aging.

Donate household items to Domestic Violence Roundtable

The Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable invites area residents to donate new household items to help families transitioning from a shelter to establish a new home. The Shower for Shelters runs from Monday, April 10 through Sunday, April 30. New unwrapped gifts may be dropped off at the Lincoln Public Library, the Goodnow Library in Sudbury or the Wayland Public Library. Items may also be dropped off at the group’s free wine-tasting event at Sudbury Wine and Spirits in the Rugged Bear Plaza (410 Boston Post Rd., Sudbury) on Friday, April 21 starting at 7 p.m.

Requested items include twin-size sheets, pillowcases, summer blankets and comforters as well as pillows, crib sheets, bath towels and face cloths, unscented cleaning products and laundry detergent, laundry baskets, kitchen utensils, flatware, dishes, drinking glasses and small kitchen appliances. Gift cards are also welcome. For a complete list of requested items, please visit the Roundtable website. All gifts collected are donated to clients of REACH Beyond Domestic Violence, The Second Step, and Voices Against Violence.

Journalism event has updated panelists

“Breaking News:  Journalism and Democracy in the 21st Century” is the topic of the annual FELS Talk on Wednesday, April 5 at 7 p.m. in the Kirshner Auditorium at L-S. The event benefits the Foundation for Educators at Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School’s Kirshner Auditorium.

The evening will feature an updated slate of educators and journalists from a variety of media, discussing the current state of professional journalism, the multiple media outlets from which readers, watchers and listeners have their news delivered, how media literacy is challenged today, and how the First Amendment’s guarantee for a free press is upheld in this new era of journalism. The panelists will offer grassroots, state, national, and global perspectives. They will exchange thoughts on the rapidly changing media landscape, how it offers many opportunities and also poses many challenges.

Panelists scheduled to appear are:

  • Isaac Feldberg, correspondent in the Living/Arts department of The Boston Globe, staff writer for Tastemakers Magazine, and a third-year journalism major at Northeastern University.
  • David Grace, history faculty member at L-S. In addition to modern European history, his research and teaching focus is on U.S. foreign policy and security issues, which he teaches in his World Crises course at LSRHS.
  • Louise Kennedy, senior editor, education, WBUR. Louise oversees Edify, WBUR’s new home for coverage on all media platforms, whether on air, online or in person, about education and learning at all stages of life.
  • Anne Mostue, Bloomberg News Radio anchor, reporter and producer. Anne reports on biotech and finance and co-hosts the Baystate Business Hour, interviewing CEOs on Friday afternoons.
  • Rachel Rohr is managing editor of The GroundTruth Project, a nonprofit media organization, founded by veteran foreign correspondent Charles Sennott and dedicated to supporting a new generation of international correspondents and to adding increased knowledge and understanding on critical global issues through their enterprise journalism.
  • Alice Waugh, founder and editor of The Lincoln Squirrel, an online newspaper she created in 2012. She began her career at the Sudbury Town Crier before earning her master’s degree in journalism from UC-Berkeley.

Julie Dobrow, senior fellow for media and civic engagement at the Tisch College of Civic Life at Tufts University, will moderate the evening. She teaches in the Eliot-Pearson Department of Child Study and Human Development, the Environmental Studies, and the Film and Media Studies programs at Tufts University. She also serves as director of the Center for Interdisciplinary Studies.

The format for the evening will be approximately an hour of directed questions from the moderator, followed by opportunities for audience questions. Admission is $10. All proceeds will benefit FELS, a non-profit organization that awards enrichment grants to Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School faculty and staff to pursue their professional and personal interests and passions.

FELS was founded in 2000 to offer parents a tangible way to show their appreciation to the L-S professional staff for the unflagging dedication, tireless effort, and genuine caring they routinely offer their students. The FELS Talk was designated The Faye Goldberg-Scheff Memorial Lecture in 2012, to honor the memory of Goldberg-Scheff, a cherished member of the FELS board.

News acorns

Information evening on water bottles, plastic bags

In preparation for upcoming Town Meeting votes on banning some plastic bags and disposable water bottles in Lincoln and Sudbury, residents are invited to see Tapped, a film about bottled water, and learn about BYOBB—Bring Your Own Bags and Bottles—on Tuesday, March 14 at 7 p.m. in the high schools’ Kirshner Auditorium.

Lecture on gardening with native plants 

The Lincoln Garden Club is sponsoring a free lecture on native plants on Tuesday, March 14 at 7 p.m. at Bemis Hall. Claudia Thompson, founder and president of the nonprofit Grow Native Massachusetts, will explain the differences between native, naturalized and invasive plants, and explore the food web that links plants to insects, birds, wildlife and humans.

Fundraiser for Lincoln summer camp scholarships for METCO students

Last summer, the METCO Coordinating Committee (MCC) collaborated with the Lincoln Parks & Recreation Department, the Lincoln METCO Director and the Codman Trust to provide nearly full scholarships to 26 Boston-based children, enabling their full participation in the Lincoln Summer Day Camp. This pilot program was made possible through the Lincoln community’s generosity and the MCC would like to offer the opportunity again this year. Click here to learn more about the MCC’s $10,000 goal and how you can donate.

Panel with former L-S students who have fought addiction

Connections at Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School presents “Fighting Addiction: Success Stories from Former L-S Students” on Wednesday, March 15 at 7:30 p.m. in the L-S Lecture Hall. The high school has lost some former students to the disease of opioid addiction, and has had a number of students battle and/or continue to battle with addiction. This event features three former students who struggled with addiction while attending L-S but who are now winning their fights. There will be time for questions.

Sleep seminar on March 15

Searching for the elusive good night’s sleep? Join Lincoln resident, nurse practitioner and health educator Catherine Collins on Thursday, March 15 at 7 p.m. in the Lincoln Public Library’s Tarbell Room for an evening of tips on  healthy, helpful ways to fall asleep and sleep the whole night through. Sponsored by The Friends of the Lincoln Public Library.

Volunteers sought for kindergarten reading program

The METCO Coordinating Committee will resume its fun and rewarding Kindergarten Reading Program on Thursday, March 30. The program provides both Boston and Lincoln-based students with additional opportunities to benefit from listening to adults read aloud. Reading aloud encourages language development, strengthens emerging literacy skills, lays a foundation for a life-long love of reading, and strengthens intergenerational relationships. Volunteers are needed to read to pairs of children on Thursday afternoons from 3-4 p.m. in the school library. Contact Pilar Doughty at pilar73@icloud.com or 617-320-9306 to volunteer and/or obtain more information.

News acorns

Video and discussion on Mexican border issues

Parishioners from First Parish in Lincoln who traveled to the Arizona-Mexico border in November will present a 20-minute video about their experiences on Sunday, March 5 at noon at St. Anne’s in-the-Fields Episcopal Church. The video includes photographs from the trip and interviews with six participants sharing what they learned about the complex issues of migration and border security. Following the film, there will be time for questions and discussion as well as a potluck lunch.

Play-reading group invites new members

A play-reading group led by Sally Kindleberger will read the comic play God of Carnage (winner of the 2009 Tony Award for best play) at its next meeting on Tuesday, March 7 at 11 a.m. in Bemis Hall New participants of all ages are invited. No experience necessary; scripts are provided. The group meets on the first two Tuesdays of each month. For more information, call Kindleberger at 781-259-1169.

Lincoln photographer in Griffin Museum show

“Red Ladder” by Mark Levinson.

Lincoln photographer Mark Levinson will be exhibiting in “Photography Atelier 25” as part of a group show of student artwork at the Griffin Museum of Photography from March 9-31. The public is invited to attend the opening reception, 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 9 at the Griffin Museum (67 Shore Road, Winchester, Mass., 01890). The Atelier is a course for intermediate and advanced photographers offered by the museum.

Alzheimer’s Association sponsors deCordova tour

Research has clearly shown that staying active is the most powerful way to manage Alzheimer’s and other dementias. To provide those living with mild Alzheimer’s disease or other memory disorder with opportunities for social engagement, the Alzheimer’s Association’s Massachusetts/New Hampshire chapter will host a guided tour of the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum on Friday, March 10 at 10:30 a.m. The tour is free, but reservations are required; call 800-272-3900.

The event is part of the Alzheimer’s Association’s Alz Meet Up program. “We are excited to start offering engaging activities year round through this program,” said Melody Bushmich, manager of early stage engagement programs at the Alzheimer’s Association. “We want to create a stigma-free environment for diagnosed individuals and their care partners that will also present an opportunity to form much-needed bonds.” Alz Meet Ups are a part of the Alzheimer’s Association Power+Purpose campaign, which aims to offer those Alzheimer’s the resources to continue living their lives as close to normal for as long as possible.

Resident offers workshop on end-of-life conversations with dementia patients

Rosemary Lloyd

Lincoln resident Rosemary Lloyd, a minister and former nurse, will lead a small group workshop introduction on Monday, Feb. 27 for families of dementia patients who may need help starting conversations about the patient’s wishes for care through the end of life.

Lloyd is advisor to faith communities for The Conversation Project, which is dedicated to helping people talk about their wishes for end-of-life care. The organization recently published a free Conversation Starter Kit to support families and loved ones of people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, and Lloyd hopes to learn whether using it in small group settings would be helpful for family members and caregivers.

After briefly sharing their stories, participants in the 90-minute workshop in Lloyd’s home will use quiet reflection, brief writing exercises, and small and large group sharing to gain a framework and process for exploring what matters most to them and to their loved one. The session is not an informational meeting or support group for Alzheimer’s caregivers or patients; “it’s a chance for people to get some tools on how to manage having the conversation with their loved one and other family members and how to express [the patient’s] wishes for care,” Lloyd said.

It’s often hard to know when to have an end-of-life conversation with Alzheimer’s and dementia patients, and sometimes when family members are ready, the patient is no longer able to express his or her wishes, Lloyd noted. In that case, “we try to imagine what they would say even if they can’t speak any more… we pull it back to the person” and away as much as possible from the sometimes complicated feelings and wishes of family members, she said.

There are four slots left for the eight-person workshop on February 27. Anyone interested should contact Lloyd at 617-359-3372 or rsmlloyd@gmail.com to learn the time and address of the meeting.

Lloyd worked as a registered nurse and hospice volunteer before attending Harvard Divinity School in her 40s (she did some of her ministerial training at the First Parish of Lincoln). She is an ordained Unitarian Universalist minister and a graduate of the Metta Institute.

News acorns

Con Com seeks member

The Conservation Commission is looking for a new commissioner to complete the term of a member who has moved out of town. The group, which meets every third week on Wednesdays from 7-10:30 p.m., approves or denies permits under the guidelines of the state wetlands law and town bylaw. The Con Com also maintains 80 miles of trails in town and stewards 200 acres of agricultural land. Commissioners are expected to participate on related town boards or committees as representatives from Con Com.

Anyone interested in this or other town volunteer opportunities should visit this Volunteer web page, download the application and send it to Peggy Elder in the Board of Selectman’s office. Appointments are made by the board. For more information, please contact Tom Gumbart in the Conservation Department office (781-259-2612) or any commissioner.

Library activities for kids this week

  • Wednesday, Feb. 22 at 11 a.m. — Luna Goes to Mars! is a play about 11-year-old Luna who is determined to build a rocket to go to Mars, with a little help from her pet hedgehog, Astro. A production of ArtsReach, from UNH. Recommended for ages 6 and up. Drop in.
  • Thursday, Feb. 23 from 4- 5 p.m. — Brixology! Kids will learn about different types of engineering and then team up to construct an engineering-themed project using LEGO bricks. Ages 6 and up. To register, call the library at 781-259-8465 ext. 4
  • Friday, Feb. 24 at 10:30 a.m. — Movies and Muffins. Gentle science-themed films based on beloved children’s books. Ages 2 and up. Drop in.
  • Saturday, Feb. 25 at 11 a.m. — Meet author Joshua Funk, who will read from his picture book about the funniest food fight ever: Lady Pancake & Sir French Toast. Recommended for all ages. No registration necessary. Join us after the story time for mini pancakes and waffles.

Library to screen “Seven Beauties”

The Lincoln Public Library Film Society presents Seven Beauties directed by Lina Wertmuller (rated R. approx. 121 minutes, in Italian with English subtitles) on Thursday, March 2 at 6:30 p.m. This 1976 film stars Giancarlo Giannini as a petty crook with seven unattractive sisters to support, and it features a picaresque, World War II-era journey through a prison asylum, army service and a Nazi concentration camp. Giannini became a 1970s international icon partially on the basis of this work.

Tour the new Hanscom Middle School

Lincoln Public Schools Superintendent Becky McFall and Principal Erich Ledebuhr will lead tours of the new Hanscom Middle School school on Wednesday, March 8 and Monday, March 13, both from 9-11 a.m. The 85,000-square-foot building serves 300 students in grades 4-8 and cost $34 million, funded entirely by the Department of Defense. The school’s design is based on grade-level “neighborhoods” where individual classrooms are clustered around common areas and small break-out spaces. This creates a flexible environment that fosters collaboration, accommodates project work, and provides opportunities for small, class-sized or grade-level groups. The music room, art room, library, full kitchen and gymnasium all have direct access to a central commons that features a stage and serves multiple functions: cafeteria space during lunch, performance center for music and drama, and a place to practice presentation skills for individuals and groups of students.

Tour participants must sign up in advance in order to be granted access to Hanscom Air Force Base. Please contact Mary Gately at gatelym@lincnet.org or at 781-274-7720. The signup deadlines are Marchy 3 for the March 8 tours, and March 8 for the March 13 tour.

Spelling bee registration coming up

Registration for the Lincoln School Foundation’s 10th Annual Spelling Bee will begin on February 27 and run through March 10. The bee will take place on Sunday, April 2 in the Brooks Auditorium from 1-6:30 p.m. This fun, multi-community event is open to all students in grades 3-6 from Smith, Brooks, the Hansom Schools, and Lincoln residents who attend private school or are home-schooled. Children within the same grade will register as a two- or three-person team and compete against other grade-level teams. For more information, see the LSF website or email Gabby Berberian at bee@lincolnschoolfoundation.org.

Fireside Chats on civic engagement, American opportunity

Sharon Antia will lead two Fireside Chats in Bemis Hall on “What Does Civic Engagement Mean to You?” on Wednesday, Feb. 22 at 11:30 a.m., and “Is America Still a Land of Opportunity?” on Wednesday, March 22. Both events run from 10-11:30 a.m.

America prides itself on being a place where anyone can succeed, but is this still true? Do some people grow up receiving a better education which leads to better jobs, health and other benefits? How much of an advantage does coming from a wealthier family convey? What do the answers to these questions mean for our society? Come join others in a lively but respectful discussion of this topic facilitated by Sharon Antia using questions and answers on March 22. The purpose of the Fireside Chats is not to convince others of your opinion, but rather to share information and ideas so as to create dialogue and greater understanding.

Author talk on fly-fishing and friendship

The Lincoln Public Library presents a book talk and signing on The Confluence: Fly-fishing & Friendship in the Dartmouth College Grant with former Lincoln resident Phil Odence on Thursday, March 9 at 7 p.m. In a collection of intertwined essays, seven authors who head north each June to a remote cabin reveal how their friendships have grown deeper as their lives flow into middle age, with laughs, tears and insight into the intersection between humanity and the natural world. The reader comes along to experience New England wilderness wonders, stinky outhouses, original watercolors, floods, a wine tasting, a dramatic search and rescue… and fly-fishing for native brook trout. Odence and his family, who are now Waltham residents, lived in Lincoln for more than a decade. He was a long time coach and president of Lincoln Youth Soccer. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing.

 

Selectman candidate forum Sunday, and news acorns

Selectmen candidates forum on Sunday

On Sunday, Feb. 12, Northside News is sponsoring a Selectmen Candidates Forum from 12:30-2:30 p.m. at the Lincoln North office building (55 Old Bedford Road in Lincoln). All three candidates—Jonathan Dwyer, who is running unopposed for Peter Braun’s seat, and Jennifer Glass and Allen Vander Meulen, who are vying for the one year remaining on Renel Fredriksen’s term—will participate and take questions from those in attendance. All are welcome.

Pajama drive

Starting Monday, Feb. 13 through March 10, the Magic Garden Children’s Center, in collaboration with the Boston Bruins, will be collecting NEW infant, toddler and children’s pajamas to support families in need. Collection boxes can be found at Magic Garden, the Lincoln Public Library, and the Lincoln Public Safety Building. The preschool classes have been decorating the boxes and involved with the pajama drive. Anyone with questions may email Brianna at doofam@gmail.com.

HATS meeting

The Hanscom Area Towns Committee (HATS) will meet on Thursday, Feb. 23 at 7:30 p.m. in the Town Office Building. Agenda items include presentations and Q&A from representatives of MITRE (Douglas Robbins, director of strategic development) and Lincoln Laboratory (Dr. Israel Soibelman).

News acorns

Special teacher’s book sale on Wednesday

The Friends of the Lincoln Library will host a special Teacher’s Valentine’s Day book sale on Wednesday, Feb. 8 from 4-7 p.m. in the Bemis Hall basement. The sale features gently used books of interest to teachers, including children’s series, chapter books, early readers, non-fiction, professional books and more!

Hamilton karaoke singalong next week

On Thursday, Feb. 16, L-S will host the Hamilton Singalong, a karaoke event featuring the songs of the Broadway musical Hamilton, starting at 7 p.m. in the high school’s auditorium. The event will have two parts; middle school students will sing from 7-8:30 p.m. and high school students will sing from 8:30-10:30 p.m. Music and lyrics will be provided for every song. People may perform as individuals or groups, or just come watch and enjoy. Costumes encouraged (but no weapons, please).

The event is free, but donations are welcome; proceeds benefit the Lincoln-Sudbury Memorial School in Cambodia, which opened in 2009 after a fundraising effort by members of the L-S community. Middle school and high school students from any town or school can sign up by emailing Danielle Weisse at danielle_weisse@lsrhs.net. Non-students will be allowed to sing if there are slots available; email Weisse ahead of time and she will get back to you closer to the event date.

Library offers “blind date with a book”

The Lincoln Public Library is offering “blind date” books for loan through Valentine’s Day. The books (on display near the circulation desk) are covered in blank paper; with only the first line of the book visible. Read the first line written on the paper cover, decide if the chemistry is right, and check out the book as you normally would.

News acorns

Candidates still needed for two town posts

There’s still time to run for office in the upcoming Town Election of March 27. Currently there are no candidates for the Housing Commission (a three-year seat) or Bemis Board of Trustees (a one-year seat). The deadline to take out nomination papers from the Town Clerk’s office is Friday, Feb. 3. Papers must be returned for certification by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 7.  Candidates must collect 28 registered voter signatures to appear on the ballot.

Selectman candidate’s forum on Feb. 12

The Northside News will host a session for candidates for the Board of Selectmen—Jonathan Dwyer, Jennifer Glass and Allen Vander Meulen—in a discussion of issues facing the town on Sunday, Feb. 12 from 12:30-2:30 p.m. at the Lincoln North Office Building (55 Old Bedford Road). Residents will have a chance to hear from each candidate, pose questions and discuss issues. (Editor’s note: the Lincoln Squirrel will publish interviews with Glass and Vander Meulen before this event.)

Donated toiletries sought

Women and children who are in shelters remaking their lives after experiencing domestic violence need toiletries like shampoo, soap, toothpaste, hand and body lotions, and more. If you have unopened toiletries from hotels or stores that you can’t use, please bring them to Bemis Hall by Friday, Feb. 6. A volunteer will take them to local domestic violence organizations for Valentine’s Day distribution.

“Lincoln marchers” start email list

Some of the “Lincoln marchers” who went to the Boston Women’s March for America (or those who went to the Washington March) on January 21 are organizing an email network to facilitate follow-up action on behalf of the march objectives of peace and justice. The group is starting with the “10 actions 100 days” agenda that can be found on the website of the Women’s March for America (www.womensmarch.com/100). If you would like to add your name to the Lincoln email list, whether or not you actually marched on that date, please contact Barbara Slayter at bslayter@comcast.net.

LOMA features Greg Klyma

Greg Klyma will be the featured performer at the next LOMA (Lincoln Open-Mike Acoustic) night on Monday, Feb. 13 from 7-10 p.m. at the Lincoln Public Library. Admission is free and refreshments are provided. Klyma will perform a half-hour set starting around 8:30. His articulate and amusing stories and populist ideals make him a rare young artist in the mold of Woody and Ramblin’ Jack. A nationally touring performer, he has seven albums to his credit; his latest, Another Man’s Treasure, features the song Livin’ the Life.

LOMA is a monthly event. Performers can sign up at the event or email Rich Eilbert at loma3re@gmail.com for a slot. There is a sound system with mikes and instrumental pickups suitable for individuals or small groups.

Council on Aging activities in February

Domestic Violence Services Network office hours
February 1 at 10 a.m.
If you are experiencing violence or abuse by a family member, whether physical, emotional, or sexual, or you are concerned about someone who is, come to Bemis Hall on Wednesday, Feb. 1 between 10 a.m. and noon to have a confidential discussion with an advocate from Domestic Violence Services Network, Inc. Come find out more about domestic violence, and how to cope with it, as well as learn about available resources in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. All conversations are completely confidential.

Meet with an aide to Congresswoman Katherine Clark
February 1 at 1 p.m.
Jimmy Santos, constituent services and military liaison for Congresswoman Katherine Clark, will hold office hours at Bemis Hall on Wednesday, Feb. 1 on federal benefits and other concerns. No need to sign up.

What you need to know about Annual Town Meeting bylaw proposals
February 3 at 9:30 a.m.
Important new bylaws and changes to existing bylaws that affect your everyday life will be voted on at Annual Town Meeting in March. Come find out more and have a chance to ask questions in an informal setting when Jennifer Burney, Director of Planning and Land Use, and members of committees proposing the bylaws will be at Bemis Hall on Friday, Feb. 3 at 9:30 a.m. One proposal would change the solar bylaw to reflect industry standards, eliminating the 12-inch setback requirement and adding in a waiver provision. Another would impose a possible moratorium on recreational marijuana. An Affordable Accessory Apartment Bylaw would create accessory apartments that qualify for the town’s affordable housing inventory. A proposed tax exemption would allow the portion of the property dedicated to an affordable accessory apartment to be tax exempt. A request to the Community Preservation Committee would create a fund for homeowners to access interest free loans for renovating or creating an affordable accessory apartment. Finally, a proposed amendment to a bylaw would allow the sale of farm products for conforming parcels between 80,000 square feet and 5 acres. Come find out more and bring your questions, concerns and ideas!

Trad jazz band
February 3 at 12:30 p.m.
Come join your neighbors who never miss a session. The Lincoln Traditional Jazz Band be at Bemis on Friday Feb. 3 from 12:30–1:30 to entertain you. There will be some good old tunes to sing along to, maybe Ain’t She Sweet or When You’re Smilin’ or All of Me or maybe something completely different this time. Maybe the music will put you in the mood to get up and dance like some of the audience do. Or maybe you’d prefer to just sit and tap your toes. See you there!

Lincoln Academy with Mark Hopkins—Walking the thornfeld: saving Africa’s most dangerous and beautiful creatures
February 6 at 12:30 p.m.
Join Earthwatch volunteer Mark Hopkins as he hikes 60 miles through scenic thornveld landscapes, accompanied by an armed Zulu ranger, counting wild rhino, giraffe, buffalo, elephant, and a dozen other large mammal species, then returning to the campsite for close-up photographic visits with lions, leopards, hippos and crocodiles. Bring a bag lunch. The Council on Aging provides beverages and dessert. The lectures last about an hour, including a question and answer period. Participants are welcome to stay after the program to continue their discussion.

Coffee with watercolor artist Jack Foley
February 7 at 2:30 p.m.
Join Lincoln artist Jack Foley for a celebration of his exhibit of watercolors at Bemis Hall on Tuesday, Feb. 7, at 2:30 pm. Jack says, “I started painting watercolors in the early ’80s, usually just on vacations. I paint most of my watercolors on site and occasionally at my kitchen table. I sell paintings, donate them to charities, or just paint for fun. Lincoln’s a great place to paint.” His work has been shown at the Clark Gallery, Concord Art, the New England Watercolor Society, the Attleboro Arts Museum, and other venues. The exhibit will run through February.

Communicating across lines of difference
February 8 at 9:30 a.m.
Effective and respectful communication between people with differing characteristics and life experiences has never been more important yet can seem ever more difficult. How do we know if we have inadvertently offended someone and what do we do about it? How do we get started talking to each other about such topics as race, gender, economic status, and other such issues in a way that strengthens relationships as well as recognizes our many commonalities? Mandy Beal, Ministerial Intern at First Parish who has completed special training, will lead a discussion at Bemis Hall on Wednesday, Feb. 8 at 9:30 a.m. about communicating around lines of difference, focusing not on being “good” or “bad” but on effectiveness. The 90-minute session will include a short presentation on current thinking and research followed by a group discussion using reflection and questions and answers.

Drawing
February 8 at 10 a.m.
Drawing is a way to capture the world as you see it and the gateway to painting and other art forms. Learn to draw and you have created a new language for yourself! Get started when Bernadette Quirk, a local artist and experienced art teacher, teaches a four-session course on Wednesday mornings from 10 a.m. to noon beginning February 8 at Bemis Hall. This session will start with simple still life objects to develop skills in measuring and perspective. The cost is $20 for the course. No prior experience necessary or expected! We provide all supplies. Please call the COA at 781-259-8811 to sign up as space is limited.

Reframing as a technique for greater happiness
February 10 at 9:30 a.m.
Whether it is a traffic jam, loss of an opportunity, or a negative life story, reframing can change your perspective and outlook on life. Learn various ways to use this technique of being honest about your situation, but finding new ways to look at its opportunities, advantages, and challenges when Pam Mizrahi, the COA’s assistant director and a social worker, holds a discussion on Friday, Feb. 10 at 9:30 a.m. at Bemis Hall. The discussion will focus on actual examples you can use every day.

First look at Annual Town Meeting: town and public schools budgets and projects
February 10 at 12:30 p.m.
Selectmen Peter Braun and Renel Fredriksen, Town Administrator Tim Higgins, Lincoln Public Schools Superintendent Becky McFall, and Lincoln School Committee Chair Jennifer Glass will present an overview of FY18 budget priorities on Friday, Feb. 10 at 12:30 p.m. at Bemis Hall. Find out what is on the Annual Town Meeting warrant for the town and school budgets. There will also be a discussion of the current status of a Lincoln school building project, and any related warrant articles that might be up for a vote at Town Meeting as well as town-related projects and initiatives. This is your opportunity to discuss the budget, the School building project, and other school and town-related topics in an informal, conversational setting. They welcome your questions, your ideas and concerns.

Valentine’s Day jazz brunch
February 12 at 10:15 a.m.
What could be more fun for Valentine’s Day than a delicious jazz brunch at Trail’s End in Concord? Join the Lincoln COA on Sunday, Feb. 12 when you’ll have a wonderful brunch while listening to some of the best local jazz around! The fun starts by boarding Doherty’s bus at the Mall at 10:15 to go to Concord. Once there, you can choose from menu items including eggs, an omelette, French toast or granola parfait, coffee, tea, juice, sides like bacon, fruit, etc. The venue does have some stairs inside. The cost is $10, with the cost of breakfast on your own. To reserve a space, send your check made out to FLCOA/Trips to Claire Mount, 123 Tower Road, Lincoln, MA 01773. Be sure to include your phone and email so she can send you a menu. Space is limited. Questions? Contact Claire at 781-259-8695.

Lincoln Academy with Tom Gumbart—Backyard butterflies, dragonflies and more
February 13 at 12:30 p.m.
Come to Bemis Hall on Monday, Feb. 13, at 12:30 to hear Tom Gumbart discuss “Backyard Butterflies, Dragonflies and More.” Lincoln’s Conservation Director, Tom Gumbart, will give a photo show and talk on insects and other small critters found locally. Featured photos will be close-up images, especially of pollinator species on flowers. Tom spent a significant amount of time this past summer taking photos, mostly at his home in Stow, and will share his experiences with the audience. Bring a bag lunch. The Council on Aging provides beverages and dessert. The lectures last about an hour, including a question and answer period. Participants are welcome to stay after the program to continue their discussion.

Free legal clinic
February 13 at 2 p.m.
Got a question about a legal issue? The Council on Aging is pleased to provide a monthly legal clinic with elder law attorney and Lincoln resident Sasha Golden on Monday, Feb. 13 from 2-4 pm. There is no charge for the 30-minute consultation, but advance registration is required. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space is available. Register in advance by calling the COA at 781-259-8811.

Free wellness clinic for all ages
February 14 at 10 a.m.
Meet with a nurse at Lincoln Woods on Tuesday, Feb. 14 from 10 a.m. to noon. Get blood pressure checks, nutrition and fitness information, medication management, chronic disease management, resources, and more. Funded by the Ogden Codman Trust and provided by Emerson Hospital Home Care.

Science club: breeding and raising miniature sheep in Lincoln
February 16 at 10 a.m.
In 2008, Ray Tomlinson and Karen Seo began working on establishing Ouessant sheep in the United States, beginning in Oregon, later moving to Lincoln in 2010. This breed is the smallest in the world—25 to 45 lbs. and 16 to 20 inches at the shoulder—about one-quarter the size of an average sheep. Unfortunately, they exist only in Europe, from where it is illegal to import any kind of ruminant (cow, goat, sheep, etc.) into the U.S. So this has meant importing semen and upbreeding from a breed already present in the U.S., using artificial insemination to slowly, generation by generation, build a flock of increasingly purebred Ouessant sheep. Each succeeding generation of females is inseminated laparascopically with 100% Ouessant semen. So the filial generations are half Ouessant, then 3/4, then 7/8, and so on. Join Karen as she talks about her sheep, the statistics and process of upbreeding in a suburban environment, caring for and selling the sheep, and more on Thursday, Feb. 16 at 10 a.m.

Coffee with a cop
February 16 at 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Come to Bemis Hall on Thursday, Feb. 16 from 1 to 2:30 pm to meet privately with a Lincoln police officer. Do you have a security concern regarding yourself, a family member, or neighbor? An idea for the Police should try? Would you like guidance about a situation? Come on down! No need to make an appointment; an officer will be at Bemis each third Thursday of the month.

Rapture of the senses retreat
February 17 at 11 a.m.
Nourish your body, soul, and heart through this special workshop celebrating loving ourselves. It will be held on Friday, Feb. 17 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Bemis Hall. Create bath bombs using dried flowers and essential oils, learn how to make a luxurious face cream; let your mind and nerves be soothed with love songs and poems; write a love poem to yourself: tantalize your taste buds with delicious, healthy treats to fall in love with! Please call the COA at 781-259-8811 to sign up as space is limited.

Senior dining
February 21 at 11:30 a.m.
Lincolnites 60 and older are invited to enjoy a delicious gourmet meal with new friends and old at 11:30 on Tuesday Feb. 21 at St. Anne’s Church. Please reserve by calling the COA at 781-259-8811 at least a week ahead even if you have previously attended. The cost of each meal is $5. Caregivers are welcome to come with those for whom they are caring. Let the COA know if you need transportation or a seating partner. The lunch is co-sponsored by the COA, the Friends of the COA, Minuteman Senior Services, Newbury Court, St. Anne’s, and the Lincoln Garden Club. A special dessert will be provided by the staff and children of the Magic Garden Children’s Center.

Fireside chat: civic engagement
February 22 at 10 a.m.
What does it mean to you to be a “good citizen,” whether of the town, the nation or the world? What can and should we do as responsible citizens? How can we engage with others in listening and talking about public life? What are some ways we can still be a good citizen when we are limited in our participation, either by physical or other disabilities, a lack of finances or other circumstances? Come join others in a lively but respectful discussion of this topic facilitated by Sharon Antia using questions and answers on Wednesday, Feb. 22 at 10 a.m. at Bemis Hall. The purpose of the Fireside Chats is not to convince others of your opinion, but rather to share information and ideas so as to create dialogue and greater understanding.

Coloring as a meditation tool
February 24 at 9:30 a.m.
All over the country adults are finding that coloring designs like mandalas, peaceful scenes, and more is a way to center, to express creativity, and to aid in meditation. Plus, it’s easy and does not require supplies other than books of designs and some colored pencils or crayons. Come find out more about adult coloring and meditation and give it a try when Tracey Cornogg comes to Bemis Hall on Friday, Feb. 24 at 9:30 a.m. Please sign up by calling the COA at 781-259-8811 so Tracey knows how many sets of materials to bring.

Mini-massage
February 24 at 11 a.m.
Jai Kaur (Annamaria San Antonio) will be offering seated mini back and neck massages as a gift or by donation February 24 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Bemis Hall. Massage reduces anxiety and stress, stiffness, fatigue and depression. Jai Kaur is a licensed and certified massage and bodywork therapist offering an integrative approach, yoga teacher and stress management instructor. Call the COA at 781-259-8811 to sign up for a 15-minute appointment.

Lincoln Academy with Ron McAdow and Betsy Stokey—A visit to Cuba with Mass Audubon
February 27 at 12:30 p.m.
A highlight of 2016 for Lincoln residents Ron McAdow and Betsy Stokey was their participation in a MassAudubon birding trip to Cuba. Ron and Betsy will show their pictures and describe their impressions of the island nation that has been so close and yet so far for most of our lives. The photos include birds—but plenty of other subjects were also photographed, making this a presentation of general interest rather than just for the “avi-centric.” Bring a bag lunch. The Council on Aging provides beverages and dessert. The lectures last about an hour, including a question and answer period. Participants are welcome to stay after the program to continue their discussion.

Free income tax preparation help
Volunteers certified under the AARP TaxAide program will prepare your federal and Massachusetts personal income tax returns or answer your tax questions. This free service can answer most of the tax issues faced by low- and middle-income taxpayers, with special attention to those over age 60. Appointments begin in February. Call the COA office at 781-259-8811 to schedule a confidential appointment and get a list of documents to bring.