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

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Mindfulness walk with John Calabria at Adams Woods

Join us for the next outing in the mindfulness walk series sponsored by the Lincoln Land Conservation Trust and Council on Aging on Tuesday, March 6 from 1–2:30 p.m. Park along the roadside next to Lindentree Farm on Old Concord Road off Route 126; meet at the chain-linked posts. Unplug, disconnect from the world and let your senses come alive in nature. Free. The series is organized for 55+, but all are welcome. In case of inclement weather, call the LLCT’s general line at 781-259-9251 after 10 a.m. the morning of the walk.

Sap-to-syrup time at Drumlin Farm

The annual Sap-to-Syrup Farmer’s Breakfast weekend takes place at Drumlin Farm Saturday and Sunday, March 10 and 11. From 9 a.m.–1 p.m. each day, visitors of all ages can feast on hearty pancakes with real maple syrup as well as Drumlin Farm sausage and roasted potatoes. Diners are welcome to stay and enjoy special maple-themed activities:

  • See how sap is collected from the wildlife sanctuary’s own sugar maples.
  • Explore the natural history of trees as you learn about the distinctly “Northwoods” product of maple syrup.
  • Learn about Native American sap-to-syrup techniques.
  • Purchase maple syrup made at Drumlin Farm to take home.

Tickets are $15 for Mass Audubon members, $17 for nonmembers. Children under 2 are free. Register online or by calling 781-259-2200.

Take an adult-ed class at L-S

Registration is now open for Lincoln-Sudbury Adult Education spring classes, which include “Learn to Paint: Classical to Contemporary Oil Painting” with artist Joanne Tarlin and “Beaded Herringbone Ropes” with Susan St. Maurice. See the full brochure and register online at www.lsrhs.net/sites/adulted.

Talk on reviving the woolly mammoth

Justin Quinn of Dr. George Church’s Harvard University lab will speak on the Woolly Mammoth Revive & Restore Project on Thursday, March 22 at 7 p.m. in the Lincoln Public Library Tarbell Room. This work is the subject of Ben Mezrich’s book Woolly: The True Story of the Quest to Revive One of History’s Most Iconic Extinct Creatures. The program is funded by the Friends of the Lincoln Public Library, Inc.

Film series looks at “swinging London”

“Swinging London” is the theme for the March films being screened by the Lincoln Library Film Society. All movies start at 3 p.m. in the Tarbell Room.

  • March 5 — “Darling” (1965) starring Julie Christie and Dirk Bogarde. A beautiful but amoral model sleeps her way to the top of the London fashion scene at the height of the Swinging Sixties.
  • March 12 — “Sunday Bloody Sunday” (1971) starring Peter Finch and Glenda Jackson. Divorced working woman Alex and well-to-do Jewish family doctor Daniel Hirsh share not only the same answering service but also the favors of young Bob Elkin, who bed-hops between them as the mood takes him.
  • March 19 — “Fish Tank” (2009) directed by Andrew Arnold. Mia, an aggressive 15-year-old, lives on an Essex estate with her tarty mother Joanne and precocious little sister Tyler. She begins an uneasy friendship with Joanne’s slick boyfriend, Connor, who encourages her one interest: dancing.
  • March 26 — “Wonderland” (1999) starring Ian Hart and Shirley Henderson. A series of vignettes focus on three sisters’ dreams, conflicts and weekend escapades, all beautifully interwoven into a single tapestry of love, pain and joy.

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Climate change film on Maldives shown Tuesday

The film The Island President will have a free showing on Tuesday, Feb. 27 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church in Lincoln, part of its ongoing Climate Justice Film Series. The film chronicles the presidency of Mohamed Nasheed, who served as the first democratically elected president of the Maldives during a tumultuous period from 2008–2012. During his presidency, Nasheed gained world attention for his activism related to climate change. Though it has put a relatively tiny amount of carbon pollution into the atmosphere, the Maldives (the world’s lowest country, with an average elevation of five feet) will be one of the first to disappear due to the rising sea levels caused by the warming effect of man-made greenhouse emissions.

A light vegetarian supper will be served at 6:30, followed by the film at 7 p.m. All are welcome. Donations will be accepted to defray the costs of public screening rights.

Monthly book sale coordinator sought

The Friends of the Lincoln Public Library are looking for a volunteer to help oversee the monthly book sale held at Bemis Hall the second Saturday of each month. The sale is the largest on-going fundraiser that the Friends run and plays a crucial part in helping the Lincoln Library offer wonderful programs for both adults and children. For more information on volunteering for this position, please contact outgoing coordinator Susan Richards Hallstein at reerichards1@gmail.com.

Arbo and Mayhem at next LOMA

Rani Arbo and Daisy Mayhem

Rani Arbo and Daisy Mayhem are the featured performers at the next LOMA (Lincoln Open-Mike Acoustic) night on Monday, March 12 in the Lincoln Public Library’s Tarbell Room. The event runs from 7-10 p.m., and Arbo and Mayhem will perform a half-hour set starting around 8:30. The duo has five albums out; their latest, Violets Are Blue (2015), is an eclectic bouquet of love songs infused with poetry and groove.

LOMA is a monthly event. Admission is free and refreshments are provided. 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.

Group hosts discussion on role of men in a time of #MeToo

The Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable will commemorate White Ribbon Day by hosting a discussion of “The Role of Men in the Time of #MeToo” on Tuesday, March 13 at 3 p.m. in the Community Meeting Room of the Wayland Public Safety Building (38 Cochituate Rd., Wayland). After an opening ceremony featuring the raising of the White Ribbon flag, two short films will be screened. One features local men and boys sharing their thoughts on the #MeToo Movement. The second screening will feature a segment of the CBS program, “A Panel of Men on the #MeToo Movement.” The films will be followed by a moderated discussion on the issues raised by the films. Participants will be encouraged to identify ways in which they, as individuals, can be allies in creating change.

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Democratic town caucus times given

A previous news item about the March 3 date of the Lincoln Democrats’ caucus omitted the time. Registration for the caucus begins at 9:30 a.m. and the event begins at 10 a.m.

Jazz concert on Wednesday

The CJALL jazz concert with Jimmy Mazzy & The Last Minute Men originally planned for February 7  was rescheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 14 at Bemis Hall. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the concert starts at 8 p.m. Sponsored by Manson Solomon and The Friends of the Lincoln Public Library. CJALL played old-time New Orleans jazz classics at the Colonial Inn in Concord for 30 years. Accompanying Jimmy are Moshe Feldman and Carol Moeller as well as trombone, sax, cornet, clarinet and vocalists.

Learn about natural burial on Feb. 21

“What (In) Earth Is A Green Burial?” is the title of a talk by Candace Currie on Wednesday, Feb. 21 from 7–8:30 p.m. in the Lincoln Public Library’s Tarbell Room. Going back to burial traditions prior to the Civil War, all burials were natural or “green” burials. Come learn about re-establishing these traditions. And yes, natural burials are legal in Massachusetts, but few cemeteries in the state are performing them. Find out why and how you can change the rules for your cemetery or create a new burial ground that conserves open space. Currie is director of planning and cemetery development for Mount Auburn Cemetery and director of Green Burial Massachusetts, Inc.

Series on domestic violence continues at First Parish

“Hidden in Plain Sight: Domestic Violence Awareness” continues at the First Parish in Lincoln on Wednesday, Feb. 21 and Wednesday, March 17 from 7–8:30 p.m. in the Parish House (14 Bedford Rd.). This series, which began on January 23, is designed to raise awareness of domestic violence and abuse in Lincoln and the surrounding communities. Ministerial Intern Terry Cummings will lead the program, along with Lauren Montanaro, community engagement specialist with REACH Beyond Domestic Violence.

At the February 21 session, participants will assess different situations and learn about the type of skills needed to respond to the situations appropriately. For those interested in becoming a domestic violence volunteer, this class will provide a preview of an aspect of the training program offered by REACH and similar organizations.

On March 27, First Parish will host a vigil to honor and remember survivors of domestic violence and abuse, as well as those who support people in need of help to cope with their situations. The vigil will include prayer, shared reflections, music and song. The meetings are open to all and are free of charge. To register, please contact Terry at terry@fplincoln.org.

Composting event on Feb. 24

The Lincoln Public Library will host “Composting with Adam Janauskas” on Saturday, Feb. 24 from 2–4 p.m. Janauskas of City Compost will help attendees learn about what to include in a compost pile, the factors that go into making a healthy compost, and what’s required for a good home composting system.

Introduction to music at L-S

Parents of eighth-graders in Sudbury and Lincoln are invited to visit Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School on Wednesday, Feb. 28 at 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium lobby to learn more about the L-S Music Department. Meet the music faculty, tour the music spaces and learn more about music offerings at the high school. Parents of students in chorus, band or orchestra, those who sing or study outside of school, or who just loves music are welcome. For more information or questions, email lsfriendsofmusic@gmail.com or visit www.lsfom.org.

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One-woman show about Eleanor Roosevelt

Sheryl Fay as Eleanor Roosevelt.

Sheryl Faye will perform “Eleanor Roosevelt: First Lady of the World,” her one-woman show highlighting the life and work of the longest-serving First Lady, on Saturday, Feb. 3 at 2 p.m. in the Lincoln Public Library’s Tarbell Room. Experience how this dynamic woman rose above an unhappy childhood to reshape the role of First Lady and how she influenced our world. Faye holds a B.A in acting from Emerson College and has performed throughout the Boston area as Eleanor Roosevelt, Abigail Adams and Amelia Earhart. Sponsored by The Friends of the Lincoln Public Library, Inc.

Lincoln doctor dons skates to benefit Jimmy Fund

John Ready, a Lincoln resident and chief of orthopedic oncology at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, will be among the Dana-Farber doctors, researchers, and staff who will play a charity hockey game against Boston Bruins alumni to benefit the Jimmy Fund. The Dana-Farber Rink Rats’ game will be held Saturday, Feb. 3 from 2–4 p.m. at Warriors Ice Arena in Boston. Dr. Ready has committed to raise $1,200 to play in the February 3 game. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children, and are available online and at the door. To support a participant or for more information, please visit www.jimmyfund.org/rinkrats.

Author of book set in Lincoln to appear

The Lincoln Public Library will host a book talk and signing with Howard Foster, author of Miranda’s War: a Novel of the Upzone, on Monday, Feb. 5 at 1 p.m. The book focuses on the legal and social battles of a determined (fictional) member of the Lincoln Conservation Commission. Copies of the book will be available for purchase.

Brahms headlines “Live at Lincoln Center”

The First Parish in Lincoln will present “Essential Brahms,” an afternoon of chamber music from the Handel and Haydn Society, on Saturday, Feb. 10 at 3 p.m. in the Parish House auditorium (14 Bedford Rd.). World-class artists Ian Watson, Guy Fishman, Aisslinn Nosky, Todd Williams, and others will perform Johannes Brahms’ Horn Trio in E-flat, Op. 40 and String Sextet in G Major, Op. 36. Watson is also the music director at First Parish in Lincoln. Seating is limited and is first-come/first seated; doors open at 2:30 p.m. Suggested donation is $30, and any amount is appreciated. This concert is part of First Parish’s “Live in Lincoln Center” music series.

Ethan Robbins to appear at LOMA

Ethan Robbins

Ethan Robbins is the featured performer at the next LOMA (Lincoln Open-Mike Acoustic) night on Monday, Feb. 12 in the Lincoln Public Library’s Tarbell Room. The event runs from 7-10 p.m., and Robbins will perform a half-hour set starting around 8:30. Robbins is a founding member of Cold Chocolate, a local progressive bluegrass trio that has shared bills with bluegrass giants such as David Grisman and Leftover Salmon, and has performed at major festivals, including Grey Fox, FloydFest, FreshGrass, and Ossipee Valley. His singing and guitar work prowess is evident in his solo cover of “Mercedes Benz“ from a recent appearance at The Spire in Plymouth.

LOMA is a monthly event. Admission is free and refreshments are provided. 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. 

First Parish hosts end-of-life workshop

“The Conversation Project,” a two-part workshop on wishes for end-of-life care, will be offered by the First Parish in Lincoln on February 14 and March 22 from 7–8:30 p.m. in the Parish House (14 Bedford Rd.). Rev. Rosemary Lloyd, advisor to faith communities for The Conversation Project (TCP) at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, will introduce a process and tools developed by TCP for having crucial conversations. Through guided reflection, personal writing, and small group sharing, participants will gain support and motivation to have values-based, relationship-building conversations about what matters most to you so your loved ones won’t be left in the dark. The March session builds on the February workshop, so attendance at both sessions is helpful. Registration is limited and pre-registration is required. Register via e-mail at rsmlloyd@gmail.com or on the signup sheet at the entry to the Parish House.

Donate Valentine’s Day gifts to domestic violence program

Each year the Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable (DVR) sponsors a Valentine’s Day Gift Drive to help make the day brighter for families who are not safe in their own homes. The families reside in shelters and transitional housing programs of three area domestic violence organizations: REACH Beyond Domestic Violence, The Second Step, and Voices Against Violence. The DVR gives each family member a bag of age-appropriate gifts to remind recipients that people care about them and support their decision to end abuse in their lives. Click here for a list of recommended donations. There will be a basket for donations at the Wayland Public Safety Building (38 Cochituate Rd. at the intersection of Routes 20 and 27) from February 1-9.

Volunteers are welcome to join Roundtable members as they assemble the gift bags on Tuesday, Feb. 13 at 3 p.m. in the Community Meeting Room of the Wayland Public Safety Building. For further information, please email the DVR at infodvrt@gmail.com.

Council on Aging activities in January

Celebrate the new year with the Trad Jazz Band
January 5 at 12:30 p.m.
Don’t miss the free New Year’s offering of traditional jazz on Friday, Jan. 5 from 12:30–1:30 p.m. at Bemis Hall. Enjoy all your favorites including music of such greats as Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, Louis Armstrong, and Fats Waller, played by a fun group who enjoy playing and providing toe-tapping enjoyment for you.

Paint in pastels with Juliet
January 8 at 10 a.m.
Express your vibrant self with the brilliant colors of pastels with Juliet Rago! She will begin with a short introduction to drawing for those who feel they need it. The class will meet from 10 a.m. to noon on January 8, 12, 19, 22, and 26 at Bemis Hall. No experience necessary. All materials furnished. Please sign up by calling the COA at 781-259-8811. Limit of six. $40.

Lincoln Academy with Margaret Coffin Brown—linebacks, Lincoln pippins, and rangeways: resource management at Minute Man National Historical Park
January 8 at 12:30 p.m.
Come to Bemis Hall on Monday, Jan. 8 at 12:30 to hear Margaret Coffin Brown discuss “Linebacks, Lincoln Pippins, and Rangeways: Resource Management at Minute Man National Park.” North Lincoln retains historic resources preserved in Minute Man National Historical Park. Margie Brown will discuss the delights and challenges of preserving North Lincoln’s cultural and natural resources including heirloom cattle, orchards, witness homes, stonewalls, and the Battle Road. The COA 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. All ages welcome.

Free elder law clinic
January 8 at 3 p.m.
Got a question about issues such as estate planning, MassHealth, protecting assets for a loved one with a serious disability, guardianship, conservatorship or probate? The COA provides a monthly legal clinic with elder law attorney and Lincoln resident Sasha Golden on Monday, Jan. 8 from 3–4 p.m. at Bemis Hall. There is no charge for the thirty-minute consultation, but please sign up by calling the COA at 781-259-8811.

Free wellness clinic for all ages
January 9 at 10 a.m. at Lincoln Woods
Meet with a nurse at 50 Wells Rd. in Lincoln Woods on Tuesday, Jan. 9 from 10 a.m.–noon. Blood pressure, nutrition and fitness, medication management, chronic disease management, resources, and more. Funded by the Ogden Codman Trust and provided by Emerson Hospital Home Care.

Memoir group
January 10 at 10 a.m.
If you’re interested in writing your memoirs or just curious about what goes on in the group, come to the first meeting of the group at Bemis Hall on Wednesday, Jan. 10 from 10 a.m. to noon. If you want to continue, the cost of the eight-session term is $75. The dates for the term are Jan. 10 and 24; Feb. 7 and 21; Mar. 7 and 21; Apr. 4, 7 18; and May 2 and 16. For info, call Connie Lewis 781-259-9415 or email her at conlewis1000@gmail.com.

How to decide what to do next with your new freedom
January 10 at 2 p.m.
What do you want to do with your freedom when you’ve retired or had another life change? How do you decide what to do next? Join Pam Mizrahi in a free course of practical strategies to uncover your own values, plan retirement’s stages, identify goals, create helpful habits, balance your days and weeks, celebrate accomplishments, and build in flexibility based on a book by Jean Risley. It will be held every other week for nine Wednesdays at 2 p.m. beginning January 10 at Bemis Hall.

Protect yourself from Medicare fraud
January 12 at 10 a.m.
$60 to $90 billion of our tax dollars are lost to Medicare fraud each year. Come meet Patricia McMillen, a representative of the Massachusetts Senior Medicare Patrol Program, on Friday, Jan. 12, at 10 a.m. at Bemis Hall to participate in a discussion on how to prevent, detect, and report healthcare errors, fraud and abuse. Please sign up by calling the COA at 781-259-8811. The program is co-sponsored by the Massachusetts Senior Medicare Patrol Program which is funded in part by grant number 90-MP 0226-03-01 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC 20201.

Enjoy a potpourri of songs with Rich Eilbert
January 12 at 1 p.m.
Spend a fun, enriching musical afternoon with Lincoln-based singer/songwriter Rich Eilbert on Friday, Jan. 12 at 1 p.m. at Bemis Hall! Rich has run the LOMA (Lincoln open-mike acoustic) event at the Lincoln Library for over eight years and can be seen annually at the Lincoln Winter Carnival coffeehouse. Rich will be performing original songs during the concert covering the gamut from romantic to humorous to topical/political. He’ll welcome comments or discussions at the end about the songs or songwriting in general.

World hand-drumming
January 16 at 9:30 a.m.
Hand drumming is a fun and unique way to express yourself and enhance well-being that’s sweeping the country. Come learn the joy of drumming with acclaimed drummer Mike Connors from the Concord Conservatory of Music on six Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. beginning January 16 at Bemis Hall. $78. Sign up by calling the COA at 781-259-8811 as space is limited. No need to bring a drum.

Senior dining: now free in your birthday month
January 16 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, Jan. 16 at St. Anne’s Church. They welcome new diners often—give them a try! Please reserve by calling the COA at 781-259-8811 at least a week ahead. The cost of each meal is $5. Caregivers are welcome to come with those for whom they are caring. Let them 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. New: enjoy a lunch free during the month of your birthday! Just come and let us know it’s your special month.

Coffee with pastel artist Bernadette Quirk
January 16 at 2:15 p.m.
Join Lincoln artist Bernadette Quirk at a Coffee in the Bemis Hall Gallery on Tuesday, Jan. 16 at 2:15 to celebrate her exhibit of pastel paintings during January and February. Bernadette is currently an active member of the Lowell Arts Association and has a pastel painting in their Fall 2017 Members Juried Show at Lowell’s Whistler House Museum until January 27, 2018. She teaches at local senior centers and gives private lessons in art mediums.

The Science Club: advances and innovations in the field of radiation therapy to treat cancer from the research labs at MIT past and present
January 18 at 10:15 a.m.
Come to Bemis Hall on Thursday, Jan. 18 at 10:15 a.m. to hear Richard Keough discuss a project he was involved in along with the MGH Radiation Therapy department to combine the traditional forms of ionizing X-rays with a non-ionizing method of ultrasound hyperthermia to treat cancer. Developing this ultrasound system entailed a major engineering effort over a decade which required that the treatments be done at this facility at MIT. Otherwise this lab was a typical academic research center utilizing grad students, postdocs, and technical and medical talents spanning a wide spectrum of talent. Keough will discuss the fundamental principles differentiating the types of radiation interactions that take place in treating this disease as well as some more recent research efforts in this field utilizing concepts of nuclear and high energy physics.

Getting the most out of your iPhone and iPad
January 19 at 9:30 a.m.
The COA’s programs on iPhones and iPads given by Andy Payne have been so popular that they have asked him to come back yet again. Andy will be at Bemis Hall on Friday, Jan. 19 at 9:30 a.m. to give you more information on the operation and features of iPhones and iPads and answer your questions. You are welcome to attend whether you came to the other sessions or not. If you have tips for using your iPhone or iPad, bring those, too!

New group for spouses of veterans
January 19 at 10 a.m.
Priscilla Leach, Lincoln’s Veterans Services Officer, is pleased to announce that she is starting a group for spouses of veterans (whether the vet is living or deceased). She hopes that the spouses will benefit from getting to know each other, discussing common concerns, and having fun together. The first meeting will be held on Friday, Jan. 19 at 10 a.m. at Bemis Hall and subsequent meeting places will be The Commons and Lincoln Woods. No need to sign up, but if you would like more information, please contact Priscilla at 781-259-4472 or leachp@lincolntown.org.

Uber and Lyft: they’re easier than you think
January 19 at 11 a.m.
If you need to get somewhere, the best way may be to use services like Uber and Lyft. However, these require a smartphone to set up your rides. If you’re befuddled by Uber, Lyft, and GoGoGrandparent (a new service to use Uber and Lyft without a phone), come on down to Bemis Hall on Friday, Jan. 19 at 11 a.m. for an introduction by Andy Payne. Besides telling you how these options work, the class will go through signing up for Uber and Lyft (bring a credit card for your account setup), as well as showing how to request rides.

The stories of your life should be told
January 19 at 12:30 p.m.
Our lives are made of stories, but too often we don’t feel they are valuable to others or we just don’t know how to tell them. Sharing both the fun and tough stories is healing for ourselves and important for our families. Join Lincoln native and professional storyteller Elisa Pearmain on Friday, Jan. 19 at 12:30 p.m. at Bemis Hall for an engaging and playful workshop on remembering, shaping and sharing stories for yourself, your family and friends.

2018 Top of the Town Winter Gala
January 20 at 5 p.m.
Are you planning to go to the Top of the Town Winter Gala on Saturday, Jan. 20 from 5–8 p.m. at the deCordova Museum? If so, please send in the reservation form you got in the mail. The form must reach the FLCOA at PO Box 143, Lincoln, MA 01773 or Bemis Hall by January 11 to confirm your attendance. This is a catered party, and an accurate head count is important. Because there is a space limit of 200 persons, the FLCOA will start a wait list if replies reach that number. They request that you let them know promptly if you must cancel so they can notify the next person on the list. While the Friends of the Lincoln COA are pleased to host this event with free admission for Lincoln residents, they greatly appreciate your donations to show support for this event.

Lincoln Academy with Peter Conrad—the medicalization of society: origins and consequences
January 22 at 12:30 p.m.
Come to Bemis Hall on Monday, Jan. 22 at 12:30 to hear Peter Conrad discuss “The Medicalization of Society— Origins and Consequences.” In recent years an increasing number of behaviors, conditions and human differences have been defined and treated as medical disorders. Examples include addictions of all sorts, ADHD, obesity, menopause, a wide range of sadness, erectile dysfunction, PMS, infertility, childbirth, aging, cognition loss, and dozens of others. This talk examines the origins and consequences of this widespread medicalization of society. The COA 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. All ages welcome!

Fireside chat: marijuana
January 24 at 10 a.m.
“Should Lincoln become the marijuana mecca? After all, this is a farming community and we are trying to bring more traffic into our downtown area,” quips Fireside Chat facilitator Sharon Antia. Do we want to grow pot commercially? Do we want to have a dispensary here in town? Join the discussion at 10 a.m. on Wednesday Jan. 24 in the Community Room at Lincoln Woods as the Fireside Chat thinks through what options make sense for us here in Lincoln. The Fireside Chat meets monthly on the fourth Wednesday at 10 a.m.

Healing motion for life: a free movement workshop
January 26 at 1 p.m.
Being in touch with the way our bodies move, and working to keep our movements unrestricted and fluid help bring health and clarity to every aspect of our lives. Join Susanne Liebich on Friday, Jan. 26 at 1 p.m. at Bemis Hall to experience a variety of sustainable exercises including expressive movement, breathing and relaxation in a program sponsored by Deaconess Abundant Life Services and Newbury Court. Susanne’s movement practice helps you achieve body awareness, presence, physical strength, balance, focus, and serenity. Future programs will be held on February 23 and March 30.

Lincoln’s intergenerational singalong
January 26 at 3:30 p.m.
The LEAP After-School Program, the Lincoln Council on Aging, and the Magic Garden Children’s Center invite Lincoln residents of all ages to enjoy a free Multigenerational Concert and Sing-Along as part of the Winter Carnival on Friday, Jan. 26 at 3:30 p.m. at Bemis Hall. The program will include singing groups from each of the three organizations. Members of the audience will enjoy favorite folk songs, children songs, and more.

Lincoln Academy with Zach Woods: amateurs assist in the second war for U.S. independence
January 29 at 12:30 p.m.
Come to Bemis Hall on Monday, Jan. 29 at 12:30 to hear Zach Woods discuss “Amateurs Assist in the Second War for U.S. Independence.” Non-professional militia, privateers, and Napoleon hindered and helped as we fought against the superior but hamstrung British Military in the War of 1812. What was the war all about? Learn about some of the surprising and telling moments in the conflict through a short film and presentation. The COA 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. All ages welcome.

Save the date

The Irish and how they got that way
Join us to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day on Wednesday, March 14 at the Stoneham Theatre. Trip-goers will attend the matinee performance of The Irish and How They Got That Way by Pulitzer Prize winning author Frank McCourt (Angela’s Ashes). This revue is a celebration of a heritage that confronts adversity with determination, good humor, music and love of life. It is a fabulous show, with excellent reviews, an uplifting musical that will leave you smiling. A comfortable air-ride bus will leave Donelan’s parking lot at 12:45 p.m., returning at approximately 5:30 p.m. This trip is rated easy, as it entails a short walk from the bus to the theater with no stairs to climb. Complimentary refreshments are served at intermission. The cost of the trip is $29 and is non-refundable. Space is limited. To reserve a seat, send your check, made out to FLCOA Trips, to Virginia O’Brien, 4 Linway Road, Lincoln, MA 01773. Please include your phone number and email address. If you have questions you can call Virginia at 781-259-1291 or email her at vobrien39@yahoo.com.

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Food co-op info session on Thursday

There will be an Assabet Village Co-op Market information session on Thursday, Dec. 28 from 7–8:15 p.m. at the Lincoln Public Library. The organization is building a locally sourced, community owned grocery store in the Metro West area and needs 900 co-op members to open.

Activities for kids at library this week

The Lincoln Public Library is offering drop-in winter crafts for kids during vacation week. The crafts table is available whenever the library is open: Wednesday, Dec. 27 and Thursday, Dec. 28 from 9 a.m.–8:30 a.m., and Friday, Dec. 29 from 9 a.m.–6 p.m.

The library will also host winter-themed “Movies & Muffins” on Friday, Dec. 29 at 10:30 a.m.
Preschoolers are invited to join us for a screening of short films based on beloved children’s books. Recommended for ages 2 and up. No sign-up necessary.

Christmas tree removal offered

Lincoln-Sudbury students are offering a Christmas tree removal service for Lincoln and Sudbury residents on Saturday, Jan. 6 from 8 a.m.–1 p.m. to benefit the L-S Class of 2020 and the girls’ basketball team. The cost is $20 ($10 for senior citizens). Click here to sign up by Wednesday, Jan. 3. The service is being assisted by K.T. Fenton Masonry in Sudbury and Lynch Landscape and Tree Service in Wayland. Anyone with questions may contact Kathleen Thompson (Class of 2020 advisor and basketball coach) at kathleen_thompson@lsrhs.net.

Moberg to perform at next LOMA event

Kim Moberg is the featured performer at the next LOMA (Lincoln Open-Mike Acoustic) night on Monday, Jan. 8 in the Lincoln Public Library’s Tarbell Room. The event runs from 7-10 p.m., and Moberg (with accompanist Kathleen Healy) will perform a half-hour set starting around 8:30. The Alaska native and self-taught finger-style guitarist has appeared at this year’s NERFA DJ showcase, the Cape Cod Playhouse, and the South Shore Music Club Earlier this year she released her extended EP Above Ground, featuring The Call.

LOMA is a monthly event. Admission is free and refreshments are provided.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.

Choral concert, Cabaret Night to celebrate music at L-S

In light of potential budget cuts to the Lincoln-Sudbury Music Department that would reduce the number of music classes offered as well as reduce the position of choral instructor, vocal advisor, and music director Michael Bunting, L-S students and alumni will perform a choral concert on Wednesday, Jan. 10 at 7 p.m. in the Kirshner Auditorium. The students are requesting that audience members write a memory or a few sentences about what the L-S music department means to them before they leave the concert. Concessions will be available in the lobby. For more information, contact Ruby Carmel at ruby2000carmel@yahoo.com.

The Music Department will also present its annual Cabaret Night on Friday, Jan. 12 in the LSRHS Café at 7:30 p.m. The program will feature select instrumental and choral ensembles in addition to soloists performing jazz, Broadway, and pop selections. L-S Friends of Music will be selling refreshments. Tickets are $5 each at the door. For more information on supporting the Music Department, please visit www.lsfom.org.

METCO to host book discussions

Join the national conversation on race, culture and identity with two book discussions hosted by the METCO program at the Lincoln School. On Thursday, Jan. 11 at 6 p.m. the book to be discussed is The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin. Participants will discuss The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri on March 15 at 6 p.m. Both discussions will take place in the Brooks gym and will include dinner and fellowship. Please sign up on the Lincoln School METCO website.

News acorns

“Snowman Mailbox” built by Team Webber (11 Minebrook Rd.) in February 2015.

Snow sculpture contest now underway

Given the vagaries of New England weather, the Parks and recreation Department has decided this year to widen the time window for the annual Lincoln Winter Festival snow sculpture contest. Resients can build a snow sculpture any time between now and late January. Once it’s finished, take a photo with a time/date stamp and email it to smulroy@lincnet.org. Email submissions will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 27. Parks and Rec will then post everything online for the community to vote on. Winners will be chosen on Friday, Feb. 2. Click here to see photos of the 2015 entries and the winners.

Personnel Board has an opening

The town’s Personnel Board is seeking a volunteer to fill a vacancy. Subject matter expertise isn’t necessary. Anyone who is interested in this position—or any other opportunity to serve on a town board of commission—should fill out and submit this volunteer form.

L-S Adult Ed offers bridge, yoga, tai chi, SAT prep

Lincoln-Sudbury Adult Education is offering a special six-week program in January and February to play and practice bridge with a teacher’s guidance. Bridge players of all abilities are welcome. Muggsie Rocco, a successful tournament player and bridge teacher, will give a brief mini-lesson or “bridge tip” each week, then stay while you play to answer questions as you go. Scoring will be Chicago style and all tables will play the same pre-arranged but randomly dealt hands. This is a great opportunity for newer players to gain some valuable practice under the guidance of a seasoned player/teacher. More experienced players are also invited to play in a friendly, no-pressure setting with new friends and old, ask questions, and gain knowledge of modern bridge techniques. To enroll, you should already know the fundamentals of bridge, as you will launch right into playing in week #1. Bring a partner if you have one; singles are welcome and will be paired up in class. Sessions take place in the L-S library from 7–9 p.m. on Thursday, January 11, 18, and 25 and February 1, 8, and 15. March 1 will be a snow make-up date if necessary. The cost is $70.

L-S Adult Ed is also offering special winter classes in yoga, tai chi and SAT preparation. Register online for any of these classes or mail a check payable to “L-S Adult Ed” to LS Adult Ed, 390 Lincoln Rd., Sudbury, MA 01776.

Town offers well-being calls

The Council on Aging and the Public Safety Department offer “well-being” telephone calls to residents of all ages during storms and other emergencies. They will call you when storms cause extensive power outages and during extended spells of extreme cold and other similar situations. If they can’t reach you by phone, Public Safety will visit your home for a well-being check to make sure you’re all right. You may also specify when you would like to be called.

To sign up for this service, please call the COA at 781-259-8811 and give your name, address, and any phone numbers you would like them to call (a cell phone or family member, for example), as well as any other pertinent information you would like to share with them, such as special medical needs. You may ask to be taken off the list at any time.

GearTicks students help create prosthetic hands for kids

The GearTicks robotics team. Back row, left to right: Trevor Tsang, Anna Sander, Evan Lee, Jack Hutchinson, Wesley Lo, Ben Morris, Kevin Ji, Alex Payne, and Andreas Muzila. Middle/front row, left to right: Emily Appleby, Olivia Crisafi, Amelia Pilar, Howie Tsang, Irene Terpstra, Audrey Gammack, Ken Hawkey,  and Prerna Karmacharya. All are Lincoln residents; Lee, Terpstra, and the Tsangs are L-S students, Hutchinson and Sander attend Concord Academy, and the others are Lincoln School students (click image to enlarge).

By Anna Sander, Prerna Karmacharya, and Evan Lee

A group of middle- and high school students from Lincoln has partnered with the Maker Club at the Perkins School for the Blind to make prosthetic hands using the Lincoln GearTicks’ 3D printer.

The GearTicks—the robotics team of students from the Lincoln School, Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School and other schools—used their 3D printing, puzzle solving, and mechanical assembly skills to create low-cost prosthetic hands for children who aren’t able to afford more expensive prosthetics as they grow.

e-NABLE, which provides the designs for the hands, had its beginnings five years ago when founder Ivan Owen collaborated with a South African carpenter who had lost a finger in a woodworking accident. He ultimately developed a set of 3D-printable prosthetic hands and put the designs for them in the public domain so they can be printed and assembled by anyone with access to a 3D printer.

The GearTicks participate in FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC), an annual robotics competition whose mission to encourage students to enter robotics and other STEM-related fields. Although the competition involves designing, building, and programming robots, there’s also a focus on community outreach. After hearing about e-NABLE’s project, the team knew they wanted to become part of the global e-NABLE community of hand-builders that’s sprung up to help those who were born without fingers or lost them to due to injuries or disease.

The GearTicks got their first 3D printer, a Flashforge Creator, four years ago, and they were able to print most of the parts for their robot for the 2016-17 season. The machine uses plastic filaments to create a precise layered object based on a CAD (computer-aided design) file. The team now has a new Prusa i3 MK2 3D printer and is in the process of designing and printing for this season’s robot. With the help of GearTicks coach Anne Hutchinson, they even made this video starring and written by team members Anna Sander and Jack Hutchinson explaining how the team uses 3D printing.

This fall, the GearTicks printed several sets of the e-NABLE hands. They used a plethora of colors, mixing and matching fingers, thumbs and various other joints to create colorful and unique hands to ship around the world. Eventually, they expanded the project to other outreach events, such as Boston Scientific’s Bring Your Child to Work Day and the Girl Scouts’ “Geek is Glam” Expo, where they worked with students on assembling the hands. At this year’s Boston Scientific event (which the GearTicks have been involved with every summer since 2015) they hosted about 300 kids over the course of six hours and worked with them to assemble hands, build Bristlebots, and teach them how to drive the GearTicks robot.

Most recently, the GearTicks partnered with the Perkins School’s Maker Club, which began as a group for visually impaired students interested in STEM-related opportunities beyond the classroom. The Lincoln students attended several of the club’s meetings, getting to know the Perkins students by working alongside them on their current projects. Later, the students split into mixed teams with each group receiving a kit of parts for one hand and all the necessary instructions to assemble it. Everyone got to work deciphering the assembly guide, and the sighted students helped the Perkins kids feel how the parts were supposed to fit together. Subsequent visits focused on creating the hands in these groups.

Natalie, a 21-year-old Perkins student, worked in a group with GearTicks members Evan Lee of L-S and Lincoln School eighth-grader Alex Payne. Pushing in the assembly pins for the hands was initially a challenge for her, but she and her group mates completed one full hand and half of a second. The kids also found that they had many common interests beyond engineering—everyone loved Spanish and music. By the third meeting, Natalie had learned the words for different colors and hand parts in Spanish.

Another Perkins student, CJ, worked with Jack Hutchinson, a student at Concord Academy. CJ, who really enjoys puzzles, immediately dove into the project. Despite not being able to see, he had a natural grasp of the project and required little instruction or help. “CJ was a really cool kid to work with. He was really talented with his hands, and I’m looking forward to seeing what he does in the future,” Hutchinson said.

Together, the groups assembled over 20 prosthetic hands. Despite coming from different backgrounds and abilities, all the students found a common passion for using their engineering skills for the benefit of their community. They’re hoping to meet one more time to package the hands and send them to kids who need them.

Other community service projects

In addition to the hands project, the GearTicks have been working on a Deer DeFence project for Minuteman National Historic Park. A landscape architect for the National Park Service contacted them last spring to see if they could design a fastener to support an enclosure to protect trees in the park’s orchards from hungry deer and goats. Over the summer and fall, they designed several iterations of the part and, after a few rounds of testing, recently installed these fasteners on about ten trees at Minuteman NHP.

The team also helped the Solarize Mass group of Lincoln, Sudbury, and Wayland by creating a sandwich board sign to promote awareness of solar power that required them to design a number of 3D printed parts.

“These projects have been a blast, and we’re always looking for more ways to get involved,” Sander said.

Council on Aging activities in December

Jazz oldies concert at Bemis
December 1 at 12:30 p.m.
The Lincoln Traditional Jazz Band will present a concert of beloved songs from the early days of jazz at Bemis Hall at 12:30 on Friday Dec. 1. Channel your inner Al Jolson, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, or Fats Waller by singing along with the band. Or, if you prefer to get up and move around to the music, feel free to do your best Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. Everyone welcome!

Lincoln Academy with Kathy Mierzwa: What’s so cool about Iceland?
December 4 at 12:30 p.m.
Come to Bemis Hall on Monday, Dec. 4 at 12:30 to hear Kathy Mierzwa discuss “What’s so Cool about Iceland?” Why is Iceland such a popular travel destination these days? Do tourists go for the ice, the geothermal pools, the volcanoes or the Northern Lights? Come see some stunning photos from Katherine Mierzwa’s recent trip to Southern Iceland. The COA 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. All ages welcome!

Demystifying probate when executor of an estate
December 5 at 2:15 p.m.
Does the word “probate” make you nervous? Has a loved one recently died and left you to manage his affairs? Are you unsure whether and when you might need to file Probate Court paperwork and tax returns after someone’s death? Please join Lincoln resident and estate planning attorney Sasha Golden on Dec. 5 at 2:15 p.m. at Bemis Hall to demystify probate and talk about what you need to do if you are appointed as the executor of an estate.

Meet with an aide to Congresswoman Katherine Clark
December 6 at 1 p.m.
A Constituent Services representative for Congresswoman Katherine Clark, will hold Office Hours at Bemis Hall on Wednesday, Dec. 6 from 1–2 p.m. on federal benefits and other concerns. No need to sign up.

Visit with a member of the Board of Selectmen
December 6 at 2 p.m.
Bring your ideas, feedback, questions, or favorite Lincoln anecdote. Whether you stop by for a minute or stay for the hour, they hope to see you from 2–3 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 6 at Bemis Hall.

Coffee and conversation with Abby
December 7 at 10 a.m.
Come share coffee and conversation with the COA’s new assistant director, Abby Butt, on Thursday, Dec. 7 at 10 a.m. Abby provides assistance in evaluating in-home needs and finding services, as well as crisis intervention, and general support to Lincoln seniors, families, and caregivers, individually or in groups. She brings many years of experience working in other COAs as well as conducting community needs assessments, program and policy development, and more. Come and ask her a question about what the COA can offer, concerns you might have or ideas you would like to share.

Have coffee with the library’s photo share
December 7 at 2:15 p.m.
Come join the members of the group “Photoshare at the Lincoln Library” on Thursday, Dec. 7 at 2:15 at Bemis Hall to celebrate their exhibit in the Bemis Gallery in December. In the decade-plus that the club has been around, it’s been a haven for people to come together to share and grow their photography. They accept all, both in terms of experience and in subject matter — portraiture, nature, wildlife, travel. Come on the first Wednesday of the month at 7pm in the Tarbell Room of the Lincoln Library.

The Birches musical: “The Ocean Show”
December 8 at 8:15 a.m.
The Birches School grades K-3 invite you to their fall musical, The Ocean Show, on Friday, Dec. 8 at 8:15 a.m. at Bemis Hall. Follow the journey of Ashley and Maya, two businesswomen bent on destroying tidal pools to build luxury apartments, as they visit the wonders of the ocean and encounter fish and plankton, sea mammals and bioluminescent creatures. This fun and educational journey shows that oceans are a series of interconnected systems, and destroying any one part will have unintended consequences elsewhere.

Lunch and tips for eating through the holidays
December 8 at 11:30 a.m.
You may be tempted to overeat or eat foods you shouldn’t at the holidays, but you can eat healthfully and have a delicious holiday season, too! Come to Bemis Hall on Friday, Dec. 8 at 11:30 a.m. to have a yummy lunch prepared by the chef from the Commons and hear some tips for eating well through the holidays without feeling deprived from Sadie Daniels, RD, dietician at the Commons. You’ll feel better, look better, and enjoy the holidays knowing you are being good to yourself! On the menu will be a formal gourmet luncheon! Please sign up by calling the COA at 781-259-8811 by December 4 as space is limited. The Commons in Lincoln recently earned a Five-Star Quality Rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for overall quality and staffing in its skilled nursing center.

Lincoln Academy with Mark Hopkins: Making a difference in rural Honduras
December 11 at 12:30 p.m.
Come to Bemis Hall on Monday, Dec. 11 at 12:30 to hear Mark Hopkins discuss “Making a Difference in Rural Honduras.” In this presentation, Mark Hopkins documents how a small, volunteer-run NGO (non-government organization) has spent the last 25 years helping the residents of a remote mountain village raise themselves out of poverty. His talk describes the many challenges involved — lack of education, poor health, polluted water sources, and an uncaring government — and follows the organization’s progress as it brings in teams of doctors, teachers, and engineers who volunteer their time to solve those problems. The COA 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. All ages welcome!

Free elder law clinic
December 11 at 3 p.m.
Got a question about issues such as estate planning, MassHealth, protecting assets for a loved one with a serious disability, guardianship, conservatorship or probate? The COA is pleased to provide a monthly legal clinic with elder law attorney and Lincoln resident Sasha Golden on Monday, Dec. 11 from 3-4 p.m. at Bemis Hall. There is no charge for the 30-minute consultation, but please sign up by calling the COA at 781-259-8811.

Free wellness clinic for all ages
December 12 at 10 a.m.
Meet with a nurse at Lincoln Woods on Tuesday, Dec. 12 from 10 a.m.–noon. Blood pressure, nutrition and fitness, medication management, chronic disease management, resources, and more. Funded by the Ogden Codman Trust and provided by Emerson Hospital Home Care.

Celebrate the holidays in a new way
December 13 and 27 at 2 p.m.
Most of us are used to celebrating the holidays through certain activities and traditions we have done for decades. But often there comes a time in our lives when those ways no longer serve us. Come join Pam Mizrahi on Wednesdays, Dec. 13 and 27 at 2 p.m. at Bemis Hall for a comfortable and informal yet upbeat discussion about how we can rethink and reinvent our holiday traditions to fit who we are and our lives now. We will then spend low-key yet festive time with others in the group. No need to sign up.

Breathe, relax, and de-stress for the holidays
December 14 at 10 a.m.
Whether you perceive the holidays to be stressful or not, this is a perfect time to give yourself the gift of a little relaxation. Ahhhhh! Learn some practical, easy-to-remember techniques and strategies for reducing your stress, relaxing your body and mind, and enhancing your well being when Catherine Collins comes to Bemis Hall on Thursday, Dec. 14 at 10 a.m. She’ll show you a variety of ways to both begin a relaxation practice that you can do every day as well as calm yourself down when you find yourself getting overly upset. Catherine Collins, RN, MS is a registered nurse and a master’s level nurse practitioner with 30 years experience in health care.

Prevent falls and trips to the E.R. with the Fire Dept.
December 15 at 11 a.m.
Falls are the #1 reason why people end up in the Emergency Room, yet they are almost entirely preventable. Join Ben Juhola of the Fire Department on Friday, Dec. 15 at 11 here at Bemis Hall to learn how you can make your home safer with easy-to-take actions, staying on your feet in winter weather, using assistive devices, health conditions that may contribute to falls, and more. The Fire Department will be serving a sandwich lunch, so please sign up by calling the COA at 781-259-8811.

Gourmet luncheon with friends old and new
December 19 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, Dec. 19 at St. Anne’s Church. They welcome new diners often — give them a try! 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 them know if you need transportation or a seating partner when you sign up. 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.

The COA Science Group: 4,000 feet of climate change, Part III
December 21 at 10:15 a.m.
Join physicist Stanley Solomon on Thursday, Dec. 21 at 10:15 a.m. in Bemis Hall for the third in a three-part series exploring the physicists’ view of climate change using articles from three issues of Physics Today, a professional journal published by the American Physics Society and read by physicists worldwide. In this session, Stan’s presentation will examine how the collected data leads to an inescapable conclusion. He plans to distribute copies of the articles before the sessions, so if you would like copies, please call the COA at 781-259-8811 to leave your name and email address.

The fireside chat: the First Amendment
December 27 at  10 a.m.
Many of us take the First Amendment for granted and proudly stand up for it, at least our own interpretation. What do “freedom of speech,” “free exercise of religion” et al really mean? Come join the discussion as the Fireside Chat group wrestles with this important topic on Wednesday, Dec. 27 at 10 a.m. at their new location in the Community Room at Lincoln Woods, 50 Wells Rd. The Fireside Chat meets monthly on the fourth Wednesday at 10 a.m. and is facilitated by Sharon Antia.

Save the date:

Revel at the Top of the Town winter gala
The Friends of the Lincoln COA (FLCOA) are pleased to announce that the annual Top of the Town Winter Gala will again be held at the deCordova Museum! The date is set for Saturday, Jan. 20 from 5–8 p.m. Mark your calendars and look for your invitation in the mail in late December. Be sure to return your reservation form promptly — space is limited to 200 people. Don’t procrastinate! The event is free but the FLCOA, as always, is extremely grateful for any donations to support this event and all its activities.

Tell your story with the memoir group
In the spring, there will room in the memoir group for a couple of new (or returning) members. If you are interested in writing your memoirs or just curious about what goes on in the group, please come to the first meeting of the group at Bemis Hall on Wednesday, January 10 from 10 a.m. to noon and find out what the group does. If you like what you hear and you want to continue, the cost of the eight-session term is $75. The dates for the term are Jan. 10 and 24; Feb. 7 and 21; March 7 and 21; April 4 and 18; and May 2 and 16. If you want more information, call Connie Lewis 781-259-9415 or email her at conlewis1000@gmail.com.

Color your life with pastels with Juliet
Express your most vibrant self with the brilliant colors of pastels in a class with Juliet Rago. She will begin with a short introduction to drawing for those who feel they need it. The class will meet from 10 a.m.–noon on January 8, 12, 19, 22, and 26. No experience is necessary. All materials will be furnished. Please sign up by calling the COA at 781-259-8811. Limit of six people. The fee is $40.

World hand drumming for fun and well being
Hand drumming is a fun and unique way to express yourself and enhance well being that’s sweeping the country. It’s a great way to spend enjoyable time with others, improve overall musical skills, and de-stress, relax, and feel more positive. Come learn the joy of drumming with acclaimed drummer Mike Connors from the Concord Conservatory of Music on six Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. beginning January 16 at a cost of $78. Please sign up as space is limited. No need to bring a drum.

News acorns

Screening of climate change film “Freightened”

The film Freightened will have a free showing on Tuesday, Nov. 28 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church as part of the church’s ongoing Climate Justice Film Series. The shipping industry has become one of the planet’s most dangerous pollution sources contributing to climate change. It is calculated that the 20 largest vessels pump more sulphur into the atmosphere than all the billions cars on the planet. Every day, 5,000 tons of toxic waste are dumped into the sea.

A light vegetarian supper will be served at 6:30, followed by the film at 7:00. All are welcome. Donations will be accepted to defray the costs of public screening rights which are paid for all our films.

Marijuana committee seeks members

The Board of Selectmen is still seeking volunteers for a committee to make recommendations on regulations, policies and bylaws for recreational marijuana businesses that might be interested in operating in Lincoln. The state’s Cannabis Control Commission expects to establish license regulations by March 2018, though Lincoln has approved a moratorium until November 2018. The issue first came up for discussion at the 2015 State of the Town meeting. To learn more about the work of this Committee, please contact the Town Administrator, Timothy S. Higgins (781-259-2604 or higginst@lincolntown.org). To apply, please submit a letter of interest to Peggy Elder, administrative assistant (elderp@lincolntown.org). Applications will be accepted until  Thursday, Nov. 30.

More home energy assessments could result in grant for town

The town of Lincoln has achieved important milestones toward a grant from National Grid designed to motivate residents to take easy and inexpensive steps in 2017 to increase the energy efficiency of their homes. If 60 more residents sign up for no-cost home energy assessments by the end of December, Lincoln will receive almost $8,000 for energy saving programs. Lincoln has already reached 200 percent of the goal for new heating and cooling systems. We are at about 70 percent of our air sealing and insulation goals.

The energy assessments are performed by a trained technician who recommends improvements to insulation, air sealing, and heating and cooling systems. They also include a safety check on furnaces and gas water heaters and an inspection for asbestos, mold and mildew. Significant discounts and rebates are provided to the homeowner for insulation and HVAC systems. No-cost LED light bulbs, smart power strips, smart thermostats, and air sealing are provided by the program. For more information, see the Lincoln Energy Challenge website, or contact Sue Klem of Lincoln’s Green Energy Committee at Susan.M.Klem@gmail.com or 781-305-3319.