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

nature

New app means happy trails for Lincoln woods walkers

By Maureen Belt

Few things are as embarrassing. You’re in the midst of a peaceful walk along one of the town’s 80-plus miles of trails and suddenly you find yourself turned around. Each tree and trail looks like the last, and the GPS on your phone (if you even get a signal) offers no guidance back to civilization.

You’re lost.

Eventually, you try your luck on different paths — any path — and it works. You see something up ahead. As you draw nearer, you discover it’s a stranger’s backyard. You could turn back, but you’ll probably end up walking in circles again. Plus it’s getting dark. So you saunter through the private property as if this was part of your original plan. If you’re lucky, no one will notice. If not, you’ll just have to apologetically explain what happened and rightfully assume you’re not their first trespasser. Either way, the solace you sought on your walk has eluded you. 

Good news — getting lost in the woods is becoming a plight of the past thanks to the folks at the Lincoln Land Conservation Trust. Earlier this year, the LLCT partnered with Outerspatial, a cloud-based platform that allows parks and recreation agencies and similar nonprofits to digitize their trails, maps, and other outdoor activities so users can access them from mobile devices.

The LLCT not only funded the map digitization of Lincoln’s trails, parklands and open spaces — its members did the heavy lifting. Stewardship Director Sara Lupkas pored over reams of data from the Assessor’s Office and tweezed out the details that were needed to populate the free, user-friendly app to help anyone navigate and enjoy Lincoln’s great outdoors. 

Besides directions, photographs, and a brief history of the town’s trails and open spaces, the app tells you which trails are best for dog walkers, strollers, and wheelchairs as well cyclists and off-roading. Anglers and hunters have not been forgotten. The app even includes directions to gas stations, crosswalks and where to get a pizza.

More importantly, you won’t get lost. “The app tells you exactly where you are on the trail,” Lupkas said.

The app (which is free for Apple and Android phones) only works while you’re in Lincoln or one of the  other Outerspatial partners, so it won’t pinpoint your exact location if you wander into Wayland or Weston, though officials from Weston officials are currently in talks with the company. Other nearby organizations already in the network include The Nature Conservancy, Mass Audubon, The Trustees of Reservations, and several towns on Martha’s Vineyard.

“Our hope is that there is more connectivity,” said Lupkas. 

Scores of Lincolnites downloaded the app to post photos of themselves on social media during the scavenger hunt portion of February’s Winter Carnival. Lupkas said similar community events are in the pipeline. 

Meanwhile, the LLCT will upload articles, such as Gwyn Loud’s popular monthly wildlife column, and upcoming events. 

“There are a few kinks that need to be ironed out,” Lupkas said, adding the app allows for real-time edits, which are impossible for printed maps. “But it’s been very well received.”

Click on images for larger versions and captions:

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Cat power (Lincoln Through the Lens)

Craig Nicholson grabbed this photo of a bobcat on his property last week.

Readers may submit photos for consideration for Lincoln Through the Lens by emailing them to lincolnsquirrelnews@gmail.com. If your photo is published, you’ll receive credit in the Squirrel. Photos must be taken in Lincoln and include the date, location, and names of any people who are identifiable in the photo. Previously published photos can be viewed on the Lincoln Through the Lens page of the Lincoln Squirrel.

News acorns

Holy Week at St. Anne’s-in-the-Fields Church

Palm Sunday (March 28)

  • 8 a.m. — In-person Holy Eucharist (click here to register)
  • 10 a.m. — Live-streamed Holy Eucharist
  • 5 p.m. — Outdoor firepit service (click here to register)

Maundy Thursday, April 1

  • 7:30 p.m. — Live-streamed Holy Eucharist

Good Friday, April 2

  • 12 p.m. — Live-streamed Service
  • 5 p.m. — Outdoor service (click here to register)

Holy Saturday, April 3

  • 10 a.m. — Live-streamed morning prayer
  • 10 p.m. — Live-streamed Service of Light

Easter Sunday, April 4

  • 9 a.m. — Live-streamed Holy Eucharist
  • 11 a.m. — Holy Eucharist with choir in the parking lot
 

Farrington offers nature-themed programs

Join Farrington Nature Linc and the Lincoln Land Conservation Trust on Thursday, April 22 from 2–­3 p.m. via Zoom for “Owls Up Close,” a virtual version of “Eyes on Owls.” Naturalists Marcia and Mark Wilson will introduce everyone to six live owls up close and personal, followed by some owl call practice with a hooting lesson. They’ll highlight the owls’ unique adaptations, habitats, and behaviors in the wild, while sharing tips on how you can look for owls yourself. All are welcome at this family friendly program. Register here to receive the Zoom link. This is a free program, but donations are encouraged and help us bring this program to the community. Viewers may purchase copies of Mark’s book, Owling (signed and personalized by the author) by emailing eyesonowls@earthlink.net.

Join award-winning producer, film composer, and author Ruth Mendelson of Lincoln to discuss her new book, The Water Tree Way, on Thursday, April 22 from 7–8:15 p.m. The main character Jai (pronounced “Jay”), filled with spunk, stealth, and courage, leaves everything she’s known to embark on a hair-raising journey. A 240-page children’s book intended for readers of all ages, the story exalts the triumph of the human spirit as experienced by a girl who can be none other than her unabashed self. Register here.

Upcoming talks in “On Belonging in Outdoors Spaces” series

Artist Evelyn Rydz will speak on “Close Attention: Exploring a Creative Practice Inside and Outside the Studio” on Wednesday, April 14 at 7 p.m. Exploring the vulnerability and the resiliency of natural and cultural ecosystems, Rydz invites viewers and participants of her projects to imagine a different future — one shaped by our connections and care for local and global communities. Her talk is part of “On Belonging in Outdoors Spaces,” a free virtual speaker series featuring prominent speakers whose are advancing efforts to strengthen belonging and connection between communities of color and the benefits of time in nature.

Also in the series:

  • Monica White, author of Freedom Farmers: Agricultural Resistance and the Black Freedom Movement, on Wednesday, May 12 at 7 p.m.
  • J. Drew Lanham, Alumni Distinguished Professor of Wildlife Ecology and Master Teacher at Clemson University, on “Coloring the Conservation Conversation” on Wednesday, June 2 at 7 p.m. Dr. Lanham will highlight what it means to embrace the full breadth of his African-American heritage and his deep kinship to nature and adoration of birds. He will discuss how conservation must be a rigorous science and evocative art, inviting diversity and race to play active roles in celebrating our natural world.

Register here and get more information about the presentations and speakers. The series is organized by the Lincoln Land Conservation Trust, the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, Farrington Nature Linc, The Food Project, Mass Audubon, and The Walden Woods Project. Additional support is provided by the Ogden Codman Trust, the Lincoln Garden Club, and the Bemis Free Lecture Series.

My Turn: “Big Night” for amphibians is nigh

By Michele Grzenda, Conservation Director

Even though it’s still winter, warmer days and increased daylight is upon us. With that brings my favorite event: Big Night!

Big Night is often used to describe the annual ritual of certain frogs and salamanders when they migrate from their upland overwintering habitat towards their spring breeding ground. During Big Night, you have a chance of seeing spotted salamanders, wood frogs, spring peepers, and other amphibians heading towards a vernal pool (generally a small pond or wetland which dries up in the summer months and does not support fish populations).

When will Big Night occur? It’s always hard to predict but it generally happens on the first few rainy nights in March and early April when the night temperature is above 40 degrees. Most years, Lincoln does not have one “big night” but rather lots of smaller movements (though “many little nights” doesn’t sound as exciting as “Big Night”). Even though the snow lingers in Lincoln, towns just south of here are already hearing frogs and seeing some salamander migration. With temperatures warming and wet weather on its way, we are only days away from the excitement.

Big Night is bittersweet for many naturalists. It’s fun to see the amphibians on the move, but in a landscape bisected by a network of roads, it often means that these small creatures risk their own lives crossing onto pavement each year. The best we can hope for is that Big Night happens late at night, when most cars are off the roads. 

What you can do

Consider visiting a roadway on a rainy night looking for migrating salamanders. The Conservation Department has placed signage at three major salamander crossings — Conant Road, Lexington Road, and Silver Hill Road — warning motorists to drive carefully on rainy nights. There are some common-sense precautions you should take:

  • Find a spot to park well before you reach the wetland crossing.
  • Wear reflective vests or clothing if possible.
  • Have multiple flashlights and be very careful looking where you walk – you don’t want to step on a frog or salamander!
  • Keep young children next to you and show them how to look with a flashlight before walking.
  • Assume vehicles do not see you and stay off the road when they approach.
  • Wear warm, weather resistant clothing and shoes.
  • Wash your hands afterwards if you handle the amphibians.

Drivers: be alert for frogs and salamanders on rainy nights this spring! This salamander may look huge in this picture, but they are small and camouflaged as they slowly cross the many roads throughout Lincoln this spring. (Photo by Michele Grzenda)

Amphibians do not like to be handled, so in most cases simply observe them. If vehicle headlights are in the distance and there is a frog or salamander in the road, please move it off the road in the direction it was heading. If possible, moisten hands in a puddle before handling the animal to minimize disturbance to their skin. You’re likely to see (yellow) spotted salamanders (which can be nine inches long), wood frogs, spring peepers, and American toads. And there’s always a possibility of a rarer sighting, such as a blue-spotted salamander.

Once you experience first-hand the activity on these special nights, you’ll certainly understand the concern we have for these small creatures. On all rainy nights in spring and summer, there is considerable animal activity on the roadways, so please keep that in mind as you’re out on any roadway. Be safe but try to give them a chance at survival. 

To learn more about amphibians, vernal pools, and Big Night, check out www.Vernalpool.org.

”My Turn” is a forum for readers to offer their views on any subject of interest to other Lincolnites. Submissions must be signed with the writer’s name and street address and sent via email to lincolnsquirrelnews@gmail.com. Items will be edited for punctuation, spelling, style, etc., and will be published at the discretion of the editor. Submissions containing personal attacks, errors of fact, or other inappropriate material will not be published.

News acorns

Program offers film, panel, and group discussions on racism

The Lincoln METCO Coordinating Committee and Sudbury Community for Racial and Social Justice is hosting a 90-minute feature documentary screening of “I’m Not Racist… Am I?” and other subsequent events. All those who live, work, attend school, or have a connection to Lincoln or Sudbury may watch the film online as a diverse group of teens and their families go through a yearlong exploration of race and racism. The effort also focuses on the courageous voices of young people and provides Lincoln, Sudbury, and Boston METCO families with a forum for working together on local race-related issues.

The screening will run from Saturday, Feb. 27 at 9 a.m. through Monday, March 1 at noon. On Wednesday, March 3 at 6:30 p.m., the Organizing Committee and Point Made Learning (the film’s producer) will host a virtual discussion with a panel of people from the Lincoln, Sudbury, and Boston communities, asking them questions and using the film content as a springboard for dialogue on race and identity. In addition to the film viewing and the panel event, there will be an opportunity for community members to sign up to participate in facilitated small group discussions based on the movie.

Sponsors include the Sudbury Foundation, the Ogden Codman Trust, the First Parish of Lincoln, the Bemis Free Lecture Series, the Lincoln Public Schools, WIDE, the Sudbury Public Library and anonymous donors. All events are free but registration is required. The small group discussions are only for those who live, work, or go to school in Lincoln or Sudbury

Session for parents of rising L-S freshmen

Will your eighth-grader be a Lincoln-Sudbury freshman next year? Might it be helpful to connect with Lincoln parents whose students have made this same transition, both before and during the Covid era? Tune into “Life at L-S: A Parent-to-Parent Conversation About the 8th-to-9th Grade Transition” on Tuesday, March 2 at 7–8:30 p.m. via Google Meet. Featuring Lincoln School Principal Sharon Hobbs and L-S veteran parents panelists, along with L-S administrators. The program will focus on all the co-curricular elements of a high-schooler’s life so families have contextual knowledge that supports the LS course selection process in March. To RSVP and/or to pre-submit panelist questions, email Hobbs at shobbs@lincnet.org. For more information, contact Carole Kasper at carolemkasper@gmail.com.

Nature sketching classes offered

Farrington Nature Linc is hosting a virtual three-session nature sketching series starting on Tuesday, March 2. Each week, we’ll meet via Zoom with artist and teacher Alex Boersma, a freelance scientific illustrator and designer from Toronto, to learn how to draw natural objects we’ve collected throughout the week. We’ll improve our observational drawing skills while exploring new media: first graphite, then pen and ink, and finally watercolor. No experience necessary.

Classes will meet Tuesday evenings from 6–8 p.m. (the final workshop will go until 9 p.m.). You may attend a single workshop or all three; however, the skills taught in each workshop will build on one another, so organizers recommend signing up for all three. Register online via Eventbrite. The supply list will be emailed once you’re registered for the class (please be sure you have acquired the necessary materials ahead of the workshop).

Talk on Edith Wharton and Ogden Codman

Join a Zoom talk on “Edith Wharton and Ogden Codman: A Creative Kinship” on Wednesday,  March 17 at 7 p.m. Edith Wharton’s first published work was not a novel, but a design manual that she co-authored with Lincoln native Ogden Codman, Jr., The Decoration of Houses, which was destined to become an interior design classic. Using original letters from Historic New England’s Codman archival collection, this illustrated talk offers an inside peek into Wharton’s and Codman’s 40-year artistic friendship. Advance registration required on this HNE web page or call 617-994-6651. Free to Lincoln residents via a 2021 Lincoln Cultural Council grant. Historic New England members: $15. Non-members: $20. Program partners for this event are the Lincoln Public Library and the Council on Aging.

Council on Aging activities

  • Lincoln Public Health Nurse Tricia McGean will conduct her regular “Chats with the Nurse” via Zoom for residents of all ages on Wednesdays, March 3 and 17 at 11 a.m.  Bring your questions about Covid-19 and other issues, and McGean will share the latest updates. Preregister by calling 781-259-8811 x102 or emailing gagnea@Lincolntown.org to get the Zoom invite.
  • The Council on Aging invites seniors to a drive-up ice cream sundae cup event on Tuesday, March 16 in the parking lot of the First Parish Church. Please help stagger arrivals by coming at the time that corresponds to your last name (A–G, arrive from 12-12:45 p.m.; H–R, arrive from 12:45-1:30 p.m.; S–Z, arrive from 1:30-2 p.m.). Ice cream sundae cups generously sponsored by the Friends of the COA.
  • The COA welcomes seniors who want to connect in March with an L-S student via a weekly conversation via Zoom, phone, or letter. Students sign up to have a weekly conversation with a senior and they receive school credit. After seniors fill out this Connections survey to make their preferences known as to dates and times, they will be matched with a high school student. For more information, visit www.connections01773.org. This third Connections series will take place over four weeks beginning the week of March 15. Questions? Email Amy Gagne at gagnea@lincolntown.org.
  • To support people who are struggling with isolation and loneliness during this difficult time, Advocates for Human Potential (AHP) has adapted their evidence-based Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) to produce a special publication that addresses isolation and loneliness. The Wellness Guide to Overcoming Isolation During COVID-19: Being Connected, Staying Connected, and Choosing Connection is available to everyone online, and the Council on Aging has a limited number of free print copies. The guide can help you engage in connection activities with others and in online support groups. For more information to receive the WRAP Up monthly newsletter, please email mjaffe@ahpnet.com.

Most Lincoln Council on Aging events are open to Lincoln residents of all ages. For a full list — including clinics, exercise classes, regular meetings of interest groups, and online chats with town officials — see the COA’s calendar page or March newsletter. Contact the COA at 781-259-8811 or gagnea@lincolntown.org for Zoom links to events.

News acorns

Winter Carnival features scavenger hunt, ice sculpture demonstration

As part of Lincoln’s annual Winter Carnival, the Lincoln Land Conservation Trust/Rural Land Foundation (LLCT/RLF) invites the public to participate in two of its featured free events:

  • From Saturday, Feb. 20 through Sunday, Feb. 28, the LLCT/RLF will host a Winter Animals Scavenger Hunt. Gear up and take a hike on Lincoln’s many walking trails in search of the various animal sculptures hidden on trails and created by local artists and students at the Birches School. Take a selfie at each sculpture and submit your photos to be eligible to receive a $10 gift card from Twisted Tree Cafe or Something Special (one per household while supplies last). Click here for instructions and scavenger hunt clues.

    Ice sculptor Donald Chapelle with a frog in progress.

  • On Saturday, Feb. 27 from 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m, the LLCT/RLF and William Jackson Associates will host an ice sculpture demonstration featuring Donald Chapelle, a local artist with 40 years of ice carving experience and founder of Brilliant Ice Sculpture. In addition to showcasing a number of pre-made ice sculptures, which he’ll have on-site, Chappelle will use chainsaws, ice picks, and various carving elements to bring a moose to life out of a block of ice. The demonstration, which takes place on the green at the Mall at Lincoln Station, is a great fun-for-the-whole-family experience (physical distancing protocols will be in place). Twisted Tree Cafe will set up a pop-up shop with hot chocolate and cookies starting at 10:30. Hint: the moose will be the last sculpture on the scavenger hunt (see above).

See and hear spring birds in fireside chat

The LLCT is also sponsoring a Zoom fireside chat and photo-sharing session with Lincoln resident and photographer Barbara Peskin about spring birds on Thursday, Feb. 25 at 7 p.m. Spring is a time of renewal, return and migration, and Peskin will highlight spring visitors to our yards, woods and fields, including rose-breasted grosbeaks and a scarlet tanager, a pair of cardinals, black-capped chickadees, pileated woodpeckers, and more. She’ll also play some of the calls and songs of these backyard friends. Along with the spring songbirds will be a few local and special photos. After her remarks, there will be time for questions and conversation. The program is free and open to all, but registration is required.

Library works to improve contactless pickup

Since the Lincoln Public Library second closure to the public, patrons have had to rely on reserving books online and picking them up in paper bags in the library vestibule. But because of limited space and demand outstripping the skeleton staff’s ability to quickly fill all the requests, the library has announced some changes.

As of February 18, items will no longer be put into separate paper bags so as to maximize the limited space in the vestibule. Staff are also looking into more temporary shelving in the small space. Empty paper bags and hand sanitizer are available. The staff also asks that patrons fill out the online pickup scheduling form only after they receive notification that they have an item ready for pickup. Complete information and links are available on the library’s Contactless Pickup web page.

Scholarship committee seeks member

The Board of Selectmen seeks volunteers to fill a vacancy on the Lincoln Scholarship Committee. The committee administers the information, applicant review, and selection processes for several scholarships and awards available to Lincoln students graduating from secondary schools. The group also fundraises on behalf of the Lincoln Permanent Scholarship Fund and mails an annual appeal letter to residents of Lincoln. For more information about the Committee, you can visit their webpage or email LincolnScholarship@LincolnTown.org

Letters of interest should be addressed to Select Board Chair James Craig and sent to Peggy Elder, administrative assistant in the Selectmen’s Office, at elderp@lincolntown.org. Residents are also welcome to fill out and submit this volunteer application or call the Selectmen’s Office at 781-259-2601.

News acorns

Youth talent show coming up on Wednesday

The Kids4Covid talent show will be live on Zoom on Wednesday, Dec. 23. Entrance starts at 5 p.m., and the show begins at 5:15. Everyone is welcome; donations from adults who watch are requested, but organizers understand that the pandemic has affected everyone differently. All donations will go straight to Save the Children. The goal is $1,000 and the effort has raised $665 so far. Donate here, and watch on Zoom here.

Mass Audubon offers free admission for foster families

Furthering its commitment to connect people of all ages and backgrounds to nature, Mass Audubon is now participating in the Wonderfund Access Card program, which serves thousands of children in foster care with the state Department of Children and Families (DCF). Foster families can now enjoy free access in 2021 for up to four individuals per visit to Mass Audubon’s network of wildlife sanctuaries, including Drumlin Farm. Wonderfund, which serves more than 5,000 DCF foster families statewide, joins other programs for which Mass Audubon is a participating partner year-round, including EBT Card to Culture, ConnectorCare Card to Culture, and Blue Star Families.

College magazine profiles alumna and MCC fundraiser Schmergel

Joanna Schmergel and her successful ongoing estate sale to benefit the Lincoln METCO Coordinating Committee is the focus of a story in the Norwich Bulletin, a publication of her alma mater, Norwich University. Quoting fellow Lincolnites Erica Gonella and Pilar Doughty, the article described how Schmergel, a former lieutenant in the army’s 82nd Airborne division, “jumped in feet-first, Airborne style” when she was first asked for a donation to the MCC.

News acorns

Fall farm fun for church group

First Parish in Lincoln church members and friends enjoyed socially distanced picnicking, pumpkin-picking, hay ride, and ice cream truck hired by the church at Matlock Farm on September 27. FPL member families, whose children have missed seeing each other on Sunday mornings, were happy to be together again on a beautiful fall day. Several parents commented that without the Flints’ pumpkin patch, they wouldn’t have felt comfortable engaging in the fall tradition of going into a field to get a pumpkin, as the larger farms are often crowded. The farm will be open for family fun every weekend this month (see the Lincoln Squirrel News Acorns on September 21 for details).

Confronting the climate change crisis

“24 Hours of Reality” with former Lincoln residents Ariel Hoover & Bob Moore, an international event organized by the Climate Reality Project, takes place via Zoom on Sunday, Oct. 11 at 2 p.m. via Zoom. For 24 straight hours, activists from around the world will lead digital presentations and discussions highlighting what people can do to confront these challenges. To receive the Zoom link, RSVP to climatereality.leecountychapter@gmail.com and indicate you’re from the Lincoln Public Library. Participation is free and open to all.

Scarecrow Classic 5K on Oct. 18

On Sunday, Oct. 18 from 8 a.m.–noon, the Lincoln Land Conservation Trust is holding the eighth Annual Scarecrow Classic 5K as a limited in-person race. There will be many physical distancing protocols in place, and runners will sign up for a start time, with each time capped at 10 participants. There also won’t be a gathering before or after.

To offer maximum flexibility, the Scarecrow Classic 5K will also include a virtual race option. Participants who sign up will receive their race shirt in the mail and can choose to run anytime, anywhere from October 11–18. They’re are encouraged to share pictures and experiences on social media.

Register by Wednesday, Oct. 7 to get your shirt on race day. There will be no day-of registrations and space is limited, so sign up today. The race directly supports LLCT and helps fund conservation acquisition projects, land stewardship goals, and educational programming. For registration and more details about safety protocols, visit www.scarecrowclassic5k.com.

Domestic Violence Roundtable hosts “What to Do, What to Say”

The Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable invites area residents to its meeting via Zoom on Tuesday, Oct. 13 at 3 p.m., where staff from REACH Beyond Domestic Violence leading a discussion entitled “What to Do, What to Say.” This hourlong workshop will review warning signs and patterns of abusive relationships, identify available resources, and develop the skills of friends, family, and neighbors to support loved ones in their lives. Registration is required and can be completed by visiting the organization’s website.

Please note that the meeting will be recorded. Those who wish to not be viewed in the recording are encouraged to turn off their video. We will hide those with videos turned off from the recording. Folks are also welcome to change their name for the meeting. We will review how to hide video and change one’s name at the start of the meeting. Anyone with questions may email infodvrt@gmail.com.

Fill out online survey for Connections

Connections, a program to connect high school students and seniors, kicks off during the week of October 17, and the program has launch a website (www.connections01773.org) where all participants can fill out a brief survey about their interests, schedule, and preferred method of communication (phone, Zoom, or paper letter). Click here to go to directly to the survey page. The deadline is Friday, Oct. 16.

Library event celebrates voting rights anniversary

Sheryl Faye as Susan B. Anthony

Celebrate the 100th anniversary of women’s right to vote and learn all about Susan B. Anthony’s life in an immersive multimedia show where Sheryl Faye will portray Anthony followed by a Q&A session on Saturday, Oct. 17 at 2 p.m. via Zoom. Free and open to all ages. For a Zoom invitation, email lrothenberg@minlib.net. Sponsored by the Friends of the Lincoln Library.

LLCT hosts author Richard Primack

Richard Primack

Join the Lincoln Land Conservation Trust for a talk by Richard Primack, author of Walden Warming: Climate Change Comes to Thoreau’s Woods on Thursday, Oct. 29 at 7:30 p.m. The evening will begin with a brief business meeting to elect/re-elect trustees.

Primack is a professor of biology at Boston University with a specialization in plant ecology, conservation biology, and climate change biology. He and his team have been using Thoreau’s records from the 1850s to document changing flowering and leafing out times of plants, earlier flight times of butterflies, and changes to migratory bird patterns. As his work gains momentum, he is extending his research to look at changes to the autumn season as well.

All are welcome to this free program; click here to register. If you would like to attend but need help registering, email llct@lincolnconservation.org. 

Lincoln’s Emanuel wins award from WGBH

Gabrielle Emanuel

WBGH reporter and Lincoln resident Gabrielle Emanuel has been named a 2021 Margret and Hans Rey/Curious George Fellowship awardee by WGBH. She’s among a group of five WGBH content creators who were recognized for their outstanding work with the Boston public media producer. The award noted that Emanuel has produced “thoughtful and in-depth journalism, unveiling nuanced stories on subjects such as the opioid trials in federal court and the untold history of the Reverse Freedom Riders.” Made possible through a bequest from author Margret Rey through the Curious George Foundation, this fellowship recognizes GBH creators who work in areas reflecting Rey’s broad interests, including science, public affairs, arts, health and children’s programming. Emanuel has received numerous other awards for her reporting, including national and regional Edward R. Murrow Awards, a Sigma Delta Chi Award, and a Clarion Award. 

Buy used books at the library

The Lincoln Public Library is now open by appointment, and visitors are welcome to browse carts of used books for sale in the connector lobby. Books are $2 each; please bring dollar bills as staff will no be able to make change. All revenue from book sales supports programs and special equipment at the library.

Face masks required for everyone on school campus

Face masks are now required by everyone on school property (students, staff, parents, visitors, and construction workers) at the Lincoln School and on school vehicles. Masks must be worn securely over nose and mouth at all times indoors, and outdoors any time you’re within six feet of another person. The policy follows recommendations by the CDC, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

Based on guidance from health authorities, neck gaiters, open-chin, triangle bandanas, and face coverings containing valves, mesh material, or holes of any kind will not be considered appropriate. Masks must have at least two layers of breathable material and must be worn by all individuals in school buildings, on school grounds, and on school transportation.

Masks may be removed during “mask breaks” and while eating and drinking. Appropriate accommodations will be made for those who are unable to wear masks due to medical conditions, disability impact, or other identified health or safety concerns. If students are in violation of this policy, the building principal will consult with the parent/guardians to determine whether an exception is appropriate, or the student may be removed from the school building and transferred to remote learning until such time as they can comply with the requirement or the requirement is lifted. This policy will remain in place until rescinded by the School Committee.

News acorns

LFA event for new or soon-to-be parents

The Lincoln Family Association invites new and expecting parents to a virtual meetup on Saturday, Aug. 23 at 2 p.m. Please RSVP to carolinemfiore@gmail.com to receive the Zoom link.

How to vote in the upcoming primary

There are three ways to vote in the September 1 primary:

  1. Vote by mail — Request a ballot by returning the postcard you received. That single postcard allows you to vote in both the primary and the general election. The deadline to submit a vote by mail using the prepaid envelope provided is Wednesday, Aug. 26. Voters may also drop completed ballots in the black mailbox at the front entrance of Town Hall. The town must receive ballot by close of polls on September 1. If you misplaced your postcard, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot by filling out this form, printing it and mailing it back to the address on the form
  1.  Early voting in person — Come to Town Hall to vote at any of these times:
    • Saturday, Aug. 22 and Sunday, Aug. 23 from 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
    • August 24–28 from 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (open until 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 27)
  1. Voting at the polls on Election Day — Polls will be open on Tuesday, Sept 1 in the Smith Gym on Ballfield Road from 7 a.m.–8 p.m. 

To register to vote or check your status as a voter, you can go to this Secretary of the Commonwealth web page. Anyone with questions, may call the Town Clerk’s office at 781-259-2607.

Outdoor Mass in Pierce Park

St. Julia Parish will offer outdoor Mass on the lawn (or under the tent in case of rain) on Sunday, Aug. 30 at 8 a.m. No reservations required. Please bring a blanket or chair and masks for attendees age 5 and up, as social distancing protocols apply. Parking is at the rear of the house or on the property on Weston Road.

Farrington Nature Linc hosts events for kids and adults

Farrington Nature Linc, a Lincoln nonprofit dedicated to connecting under-resourced children to the natural world, will host the following end-of-summer events:

End of Summer Virtual Glow Dance Party — Saturday, Aug. 22 at 6:30 p.m.
Get your glow on with a live set from DJ Alison, glow-in-the-dark activities and games, and a special appearance by our goat friends. Click here to register.

Herbal Cocktails Virtual Happy Hour — Thursday, Sept. 10 at 6:30 p.m.
This online workshop led by Jenny Hauf from Muddy River Herbals will introduce participants to making and growing their own cocktails. You’ll come away knowing how to make a mojito, simple syrup, and blueberry pine shrub. Jenny will also discuss alcohol-free options so you can treat everyone in your life to a beautifully crafted drink. Click here to purchase tickets.

Garden Club opens online shop

The Lincoln Garden Club has opened an online garden shop to help support its mission. Inventory includes house plants and shrubs, metal plant stands, gardening books, and more, all donated by a former Lincoln neighbor. Click here for details. Because the club was unable to have our usual biennial perennial plant sale in May, they will be having one in 2021 (in person if circumstances allow) to celebrate spring.

Free library delivery for the homebound

The Lincoln Public Library offers weekly home delivery on Tuesdays for Lincoln residents who are unable to visit the library due to special needs, illness, or disability, thanks to a program offered by the Friends of the Lincoln Library. A Friends volunteer can deliver up to six items to a home at one time, including books, DVDs, CDs, magazines, and two-week new releases. To request materials, use the Minuteman online catalog or call the library (781-259-8465 x204) to request either specific items or general selections (for example, “please send me five mysteries by women authors”).

When the library calls or emails to indicate your items are available, let them know you would like to have them delivered. They will arrange a safe way to deliver your items based on your particular situation. The volunteer will also call on delivery day to make sure someone is home. Items to be returned will be picked up when deliveries are made. Questions? Contact the Reference Department at 781-259-8465 x204 or linref@minlib.net.

New transfer station/commuter lot stickers required

The Town of Lincoln is combining transfer station and commuter lot resident stickers into a single sticker affixed to car windshields. They will become effective on September 1 and are good for one year. To obtain a sticker, complete the application online by clicking here or go to the Department of Public Works on Lewis Street. The free stickers will be mailed upon receipt of the completed application. Any resident who does not have a new sticker by November 1, 2020 may be refused access to the transfer station or commuter lot.

Moderate-income condo for sale

A three-bedroom, 1,420-square-foot moderate-income condo unit in Battle Road Farm is now being offered to “ineligible” households, meaning those that do not meet the income and asset requirements for affordable housing. The purchase price is $321,200 and is being offered in a first-come, first-served basis, meaning that the first qualified applicant with a completed application will be eligible to purchase the unit. Click here for details, and contact Lara Plaskon at the Regional Housing Services Office with any questions or to submit an application:

Lara Plaskon, Regional Housing Services Office
37 Knox Trail
Acton, MA 01720
978-287-1092 or 978-639-3387
info@rhsohousing.org

 

 

News acorns

Events from the Lincoln Public Library

  • Harper Kincaid will speak on her newest mystery, To Kill A Mocking Girl, via Zoom on Wednesday, Aug. 12 at 7 p.m. The library invited her after one of its book groups enjoyed the book last month. The book is available online either as an e-book or a digital audio book through an Overdrive Advantage subscription. To access the title without a waiting list, you will need to log in with a Lincoln Library card. For an invite to the Zoom meeting, please
  • Mandy Roberge will host a virtual mini-dreamcatcher craft activity for children 10 and up. Sign up to receive a craft material package via curbside pick up at the library, then join artist and teacher Mandy Roberge for the craft class via Zoom. Limited to 12 screens. Email sfeather@minlib.net to register and receive program information, including when to pick up materials and the Zoom link and password.
  • The library will host Virtual Trivia Night with the Trivia Brothers. This is an invitation-only program for children going into grades 4-7 who have completed their Summer Reading Challenges. Return your completed Summer Reading Challenge to dleopold@minlib.net to receive your invite. The deadline is Wednesday, Aug. 12.

Talk on monarchs and milkweed

The Lincoln Land Conservation Trust is sponsoring a virtual talk on “Monarchs, Milkweed, and Citizen Science“ with Kristin Steinmetz on Tuesday, Aug. 11 at 7 p.m. Steinmetz, the education coordinator at Mass Audubon’s Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, will cover information about milkweed plant species and how to collect seed, as well as citizen science opportunities and resources. She’ll also provide an update on the status of monarchs in our area this year. Free, but registration is required; click here.

Dash ’n Dine for seniors

The Council on Aging is sponsoring a Dash ’n Dine drive-through box lunch pickup for Lincoln seniors on Thursday, Aug. 13 from 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. at the Real Restaurant. Seniors must register by calling 781-259-8811 or emailing GagneA@Lincolntown.org by August 11. Contactless pickup offered by COA staff. Co-sponsored by Deaconess Abundant Life Services and The Commons.