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

sports & recreation

Robotics team hosts expo for aspiring young engineers

The GearTicks’ Laura Appleby (second from right) and Evan Lee (far right) congratulate teams in a blue-wigged high-five line at the awards ceremony.

By Evan Lee

Dozens of students gathered at Lincoln School’s Reed Field House on November 17 for Lincoln Legopalooza, an exciting day of fun with LEGO robotics and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math).

FIRST Lego League Jr. (FLLJr) is a new addition to Lincoln’s robotics programs, allowing students as young as 5 to enter the STEM world. For the past two months, small groups of K-3 students have been industriously working in teams building and programming LEGO models as well as creating a “ShowMe” poster documenting their process.

Each year, FIRST creates a challenge for teams to tackle. This year’s “Mission Moon” challenged teams to learn about the moon and how to support a living environment in a moon base. The GearTicks, Lincoln’s local robotics team, organized the Legopalooza—Massachusetts’ first FLLJr Expo this season. The team’s middle- and high-school students helped kick-start and mentor all six of Lincoln’s FLLJr teams, bringing them together at the event to showcase their work.

The students’ excitement shone through the entire day and their season, highlighted in their quirky team names. GearTicks members served as reviewers, evaluating each of the teams’ models and posters. Camille of team Moon Ice Cream explained their moon base’s sliding door: the team used sensors to automatically open and close it. Pointing to a printout of their WeDo block programming code, she aptly noted, “It’s really, really long! It took us most of [a whole meeting] to program.”Moon Ice Cream’s obstacle-avoiding car won them the Master Programmer award.

Debra Daugherty, the team’s coach, appreciated GearTicks team members’ mentoring role through the season. “They tried to get the kids to think for themselves and to problem solve instead of just handing them the answers. The kids loved the final product,” she said.

Team Galactic Bots was thrilled with their Inquiring Minds award.

Team Blast to the Past took a recreational approach for their moon base, including a central area with campfires and diving boards. The students’ focus on fun was evident as they proudly presented their model and poster. Each team won a unique award, recognizing the strengths of each of their presentations.

Legopalooza also had a slew of other fun activities for the kids. Imaginations ran wild at the LEGO free-build table, and students were able to give their medal name tags a unique personal touch with colorful LEGO studs and cones at the medal decoration table. The Green GearTicks FIRST LEGO League had a display alongside the GearTicks FIRST Tech Challenge robot, introducing the younger generation to the next steps in the organization’s progressions of competition and inspiring them to continue pursuing STEM activities.

The event was a significant step in fostering a culture of STEM with Lincoln’s young students. “The FIRST progression of programs is beautifully designed to increase the challenges as students grow,” said Tim Hawkey, a coach of both FLL and FTC teams. Richard Gammack agreed. “It’s incredible how rapidly they progress from simple fun toy robots to sophisticated, engineered, 3D printed and machined robots,” he said. “I was thrilled to share my love of STEM with these aspiring engineers, and I hope we continue to organize FLLJr teams and events in years to come!”

News acorns

Fireside Chats coming up

Now that Lincoln has voted in favor of being a “safe and welcoming community,” what does it mean? How are we currently honoring this charge, and how can we improve? Anyone who has (or has not) been made to feel safe and welcome is invited to join the discussion on Saturday, Nov. 17 from 10–11:30 a.m. in the Lincoln Woods community room.

On Saturday, Dec. 22 (same time and place), the Fireside Chat will address “Healing Our Divisions.” Using Them: Why We Hate Each Other—and How to Heal by Ben Sasse, we’ll talk about why there’s so much anger in our country, how our everyday actions and decisions feed into this, and whether we can love our neighbors even when we have differing opinions.

CSA veggies for sale

Each year during Thanksgiving week, Lindentree Farm CSA offers an organic vegetable share for members and others—this year on Tuesday and Wednesday, Nov. 20 and 21. If interested, email lindentreecsa@gmail.com.

Annual L-S alumni soccer game next week

The Lincoln-Sudbury Alumni Soccer Game is being held for the 26th time on Saturday, Nov. 24 at noon.  It’s a casual game for alumni from any era. To RSVP, email Tim Mangini at tim_mangini@wgbh.org or post on the group’s Facebook page.

Cradles to Crayons children’s clothing drive

Please drop off your donations of children’s gently used clothing at the Liepert home at 108 Trapelo Rd. in Lincoln (leave bags by garage door) for Cradles to Crayons before Friday, Nov. 30. Sizes infant through adult small. Most-needed items include sweaters and sweatshirts, but children’s clothing/shoes for any season are welcome. For a full list of accepted items, visit Cradlestocrayons.org. Email sarahliepert@me.com with any questions.

Buy crafts and gifts from local artisans

Samples of jewelry that will be on sale at the GiftLocal Lincoln event on December 1.

The Old Town Hall Exchange is hosting a local artisan/crafter holiday market at the Pierce House on Saturday, Dec. 1 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 2 from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. On sale will be home-made chocolate bars, photographs, cards, woven household items, hand-blown glass bowls, upcycled mittens, jewelry, art clothing, knitted sweaters, soaps, and lotions. For details, visit the GiftLocalLincoln Facebook page.

Touch of Christmas Fair at First Parish

The First Parish in Lincoln will hold its annual Touch of Christmas Fair on Saturday, Dec. 8 from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. in the Parish House (14 Bedford Rd.). There will be many hands-on activities for children; Santa will arrive at 11 a.m., and children can have photos taken on Santa’s lap. There will be a baked-goods table and a handmade craft table, as well as second-hand antiques, housewares, jewelry, homemade holiday wreathes, and centerpieces for sale made by many volunteers the week before the fair. Lunch will be served from noon–1 p.m. Admission is free. 

Town seeks social worker, members for two groups

The Town of Lincoln seeks qualified applicants for the 12-hour-a-week grant-funded position of Town Social Worker. Under the direction of the Council on Aging director, this person will provide social work services to Lincoln residents under 60. Duties include case management, call reassurance and follow-up, and problem resolution as well as family counseling, home visits, and maintaining on-call status. A master’s degree in social work or an equivalent mental health field required with a minimum of three years of progressive experience. Pay range is $25–$30/hour. Please submit a cover letter and resume to Mary Day, Town Offices, 16 Lincoln Rd., Lincoln MA 01773 or jobs@lincolntown.org by Saturday, Dec. 1.

The town is also seeking volunteers for the Historic Commission and the Historic District Commission. More information on the mission and purview of the organizations can be found on their website. The deadline for submittals is Friday, Nov. 30. Click here for an application. For more information, call the Selectmen’s Office at 781-259-2601.

GearTicks teach robotics at Girl Scout event

The GearTicks at WPI for the “Geek is Glam” event: Howie Tsang, Ben Morris, Prerna Karmacharya, Andreas Muzila, Erin Crisafi, Amelia Pillar, and Kevin Ji (click to enlarge).

By Prerna Karmacharya

The GearTicks, a local robotics team based in Lincoln, demonstrated their vacuum pump and helped the Girl Scouts build prosthetic hands and drive LEGO Segways at the Girl Scout “Geek is Glam” event on October 13 at WPI in Worcester.

At the event, the Lincoln GearTicks interacted with girls in grades 4–8, teaching them about how robotics is fun and getting them interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math).

Prerna Karmacharya shows a 3D-printed prosthetic hand to a Girl Scout.

The GearTicks also take part in a competition called FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) for middle and high school students, where they design, build, and program robots to compete in a challenge once a year. Teams all over the globe compete in this competition. FTC also encourages community outreach.

Last year for FTC, the GearTicks designed a vacuum pump as part of their design for their robot and built the pump from parts they made on their 3D printer. The team also spent lots of time perfecting the custom vacuum pump and enjoy sharing knowledge about it with others.

The GearTicks also 3D-printed prosthetic hands as part of the e-NABLE prosthetic hand project. Through building the hands, they are able to give back to the community using their knowledge, and share their skills with others.

The Girl Scouts came in four groups of about 100 kids in each group. Overall there were about 440 Girl Scouts there. Other exhibitors were iRobot and Bose, along with other groups including a few FRC teams.

Lincoln GearTicks team members Amelia Pillar, Erin Crisafi, Howie Tsang, and Andreas Muzila get ready for the Girl Scouts event. 

One of the Girl Scouts worked with GearTick members Prerna and Amelia to build the prosthetic hands. It turned out that this Girl Scout’s foster sister had a prosthetic hand that was also from e-NABLE.

“It overjoyed me to learn about someone who had benefited from these hands,” Prerna said.

The GearTicks hope that they can keep helping the community. They really enjoyed teaching the Girl Scouts about science and engineering, as well as getting them more interested in STEM. The team strives to use their STEM skills to help their local community.

Council on Aging activities in November

Coffee with photographer Barbara Peskin
November 1 at 2:45 p.m.
Join artist Barbara Peskin on Thursday, Nov. 1 at 2:45 p.m. to celebrate her exhibit “Moments in Nature,” shown in the Bemis Hall gallery through mid-November. Barbara enjoys sharing photos that play on the patience to let nature unfold as you observe, listen and watch and may come unexpectedly in quiet moments. Her photos come from places like Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons, along with photos of mergansers and puffins from Maine, and more from Lincoln and local areas.

Lunchtime jazz
November 2 at 12:30 p.m.
At lunchtime on Friday, Nov. 2, the Lincoln Traditional Jazz Band will be upstairs at Bemis with a menu of delicious oldies but goodies for your enjoyment. Give yourself a break, join your fellow seniors. Relax, take the weight off, sit back and enjoy the music. Trombone, cornet, clarinet, piano, and drums will be in the house from 12:30–1:30.

Toni Lynn Washington and Sax Gordon Beadle play the blues
November 4 at 2 p.m.
All ages are invited to a free concert by renowned Boston-area blues vocalist Toni Lynn Washington and acclaimed saxophonist Sax Gordon Beadle on Sunday, Nov. 4 at 2 p.m. at Bemis Hall. The performance is the Second Annual Ronna Cooper Memorial Concert and is sponsored by the Friends of the Lincoln COA. It is a gift from Margo Cooper in celebration of her mother’s life. Washington has delighted and awed audiences in Boston and around the country and the globe for decades as both a singer and songwriter. Marty Ballou on bass, Bryan Claunch on keyboard and Tom Avery on drums will back up Toni Lynn and Sax Gordon. [Read more…] about Council on Aging activities in November

News acorns

Scarecrow Classic steps off this Sunday

More than 550 participants are expected to join the LLCT for the sixth Annual Scarecrow Classic on Sunday, Oct. 14. The race kicks off at 9:30 a.m. on Codman Road by the fire station and runs along Lincoln’s scenic roads, fields, and trails.

After the race, there will be a raffle with prizes, live music, cider donuts, seasonal soup, and prizes for the top three runners in each age category. Raffle tickets can be purchased in advance at the LLCT offices, from LLCT trustees, or on October 14 before the race. Online registration is open through Friday, Oct. 12 and same-day registration is available starting at 8 a.m. Visit scarecrowclassic5k.com for the route map and online registration.

In keeping with conservation principles, participants are asked to bring a refillable water bottle (they can place it at the finish line ahead of time). There will be a hydration station and limited emergency water supplies for those without a water bottle. All utensils, cups, bowls, and napkins will be 100% compostable.

Diaper drive headed by Lincoln residents seeks donations

Residents are urged to drop off disposable diapers at the Lincoln Public Library for the Metro-Boston Diaper Drive, which runs through Sunday, Oct. 21. Diapers will be donated to the Somerville WIC office, which serves Somerville, Cambridge, Arlington, Watertown, Belmont, Bedford, Lexington, and Lincoln. Donors may also purchase diapers from these Amazon or Target registries and having them sent directly to the WIC office.

The diaper drive began six years ago after Kerstin Sinkevicius (now of Lincoln) and Aimee Mills of Somerville read an article detailing how difficult it was for financially challenged families to afford diapers. Neither WIC nor SNAP benefits cover the cost of diapers. Two years ago, Kim Jalet of Lincoln replaced Mills as co-coordinator. A full list of collection points can be found at mbdiapers.org.

The Metro-Boston Diaper Drive was formerly called the Somerville Moms’ Diaper Drive, but “we changed the name this year to the Metro-Boston Diaper Drive because it has grown far beyond the original scope of Somerville now that we have 31 collection points in eight towns,” said Jalet said. A full list of collection points can be found at mbdiapers.org. Last year, the event donated more than 22,000 diapers. This year, organizers hope to donate at least 30,000 diapers.

College planning seminar at L-S

Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School Adult Ed is offering a college planning seminar for parents of ninth- and tenth-graders on Thursday, Oct. 25 from 7–9 p.m. in the L-S lecture hall. Tuition is $20/family and pre-registration at www.lsrhs.net/sites/adulted/ is required. Todd Richman, founder of Achieve Admissions, and Annika Noren, co-founder of InspireDo LLC, will address how colleges evaluate applicants, academic planning during high school, extracurricular and summer activities, considerations for student-athletes, when to take standardized tests, and why sophomore year is important to financial aid. 

Tales of the Night at Drumlin

Put on your favorite costume, grab a flashlight, and come to Tales of the Night, Drumlin Farm’s  family-friendly Halloween tradition, on Thursday and Friday, Oct. 25 and 26 from 6:30–9 p.m. Visitors will have the chance to:

  • Explore the farm at night, lit by a display of over 100 jack-o-lanterns
  • Meet some of the nocturnal wildlife of Massachusetts
  • Enjoy treats, “spider cider,” and “witches’ brew” at the ghoulish graveyard
  • Step into a story on the Nursery Rhyme Trail to meet your favorite characters
  • Venture out into the fields for a haunted hayride full of spooky surprises (7–8:30 p.m.)

Tickets ($15 for Mass Audubon members, $17 for nonmembers) must be purchased in advance—no admission at the gate. Purchase tickets online or register by phone at 781-259-2206.

Amelia Earhart events at library

Actor Sheryl Faye returns to the Lincoln Public Library to portray aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart on Saturday, Oct. 27 at 2 p.m. As attendees learn how Earhart follows her dream with an indomitable spirit, her story will inspire them to pursue their own budding interests and passions. Local historian and Medford Public Library Director Barbara Kerr will discuss Earhart’s Boston-area connections on Thursday, Nov. 8 at 7 p.m. Both events are free and open to all.

Seminar covers Hindu period in India history

The next seminar in the India Discovery Project (IDP) covering the Hindu period (500–1500 AD) is on Saturday, Nov. 3 from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. The seminar is an all-day event with slide presentations, lectures and music; lunch and tea will be provided. Presenters will include Lincoln resident and IDP President Bijoy Misra. The public online registration fee is $25, but Lincoln residents can get a $5 discount by sending a check to the India Discovery Center, 180 Bedford Rd., Lincoln, MA 01773.

Council on Aging activities in October

Watercolor class with Jane
October 1 at 9 a.m.
Rediscover your joyful soul through art and nature in Jane Cooper’s watercolor class painting of scenes of nature, landscapes or some favorite sky. One class of four sessions will be offered on Mondays, Oct. 1 and 15 and Fridays, Oct. 5 and 12 from 9–11 a.m. at Bemis Hall. Cost is $30, materials included. Sign up now by calling the Council on Aging at 781-259-8811.

Lincoln Academy with Timothy Johnson, MD: 35 years at ABC News
October 1 at 12:30 p.m.
Come to Bemis Hall on Monday, Oct. 1 at 12:30 to hear Timothy Johnson, MD, discuss “35 Years at ABC News.” For 35 years, Dr. Tim Johnson was the chief medical correspondent for ABC News, giving medical information to millions of Americans in a way that was accurate yet accessible. His contributions to such shows as Good Morning America, World News Tonight, Nightline, 20/20, and more helped viewers understand their medical conditions as well as how they can take charge of their own health. He will discuss his decades at ABC News and answer your questions. 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.

Noticing walks with John Calabria
October 2 at 1 p.m. (location TBD)
Come for a series of gently paced walks through nature guided by John Calabria beginning Oct. 2 from 1 to 2:30 at a location posted at lincolnconservation.org. Bring walking sticks or walking poles if you like. More walks will be held November 6 and December 4. If the weather is bad, call 781-259-9251 after 10 a.m. on the morning of the walk for an update. Co-sponsored by the COA and Lincoln Land Conservation Trust.

Find out who’s in your family tree
October 2 at 2 p.m.
Tracing your family tree is like a treasure hunt of self-discovery. Enjoy sharing stories, tips, and resources with others (and hearing about what works for others might help you, too) on Tuesday, Oct. 2 at 2 p.m. at Bemis Hall at a discussion group for genealogy enthusiasts.

New Russian conversation group
October 3 at 1 p.m.
Come brush up on your Russian by speaking it with others the first and third Wednesdays of each month at 1 p.m. at Bemis Hall. In October the group will meet on October 3 and 17. Please come whether you are a native speaker, beginner, or in-between. All ages welcome.

The challenges of change and loss 
October 4 at 10 a.m.
As we age we face changes in many aspects of our lives. We may be dealing with changes in physical or cognitive health in loved ones, friends or ourselves or the death of a loved one. It may be negotiating the transition to retirement and the loss of professional identity. We may be making decisions about whether to stay in our homes or to move to a retirement community. Relationships with adult children may also change and at times we may have to address their sense of what is good for us and what we want. Claire Gerstein, LICSW, the COA’s social worker with many years of experience helping people navigate the issues of later life, will be facilitating a group that will give people the opportunity to talk about these issues in a supportive environment. The six-week group will run on Thursdays from10-11:30 on October 4, 11, 18, 25, and November 1 and 8. Sign up by calling the Lincoln Council on Aging at 781-259-8811 is helpful but not required.

Coffee with photographer Barbara Peskin
October 4 at 3 p.m.
Join artist Barbara Peskin on Thursday, Oct. 4 at 3 p.m. to celebrate her exhibit “Moments in Nature” shown in the Bemis Hall gallery October through mid-November. Barbara enjoys sharing photos that play on the patience to let nature unfold as you observe, listen and watch and may come unexpectedly in quiet moments. Her photos come from places like Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons, along with mergansers from Rangeley, ME, puffins from Machias Seal Island, ME, and more from Lincoln and local areas. Barbara has exhibited her photography at local libraries and COA’s, Concord’s Reasons to Be Cheerful and Stow’s Nancy’s Air Field Cafe. She’s won awards from the Lincoln Garden Club and Parker River Wildlife Refuge.

Trad jazz band
October 5 at 12:30 p.m.
You are not alone if when you turn on the radio you find yourself wishing they’d play On The Sunny Side of the Street or Ain’t Misbehavin’ or Toot-Toot-Tootsie. You can get your wish on Friday, Oct. 5 when the Lincoln Traditional Jazz Band serves up a lunchtime platter of those golden oldies at Bemis from 12:30–1:30. Come upstairs, kickoff your shoes, enjoy. 

Technology workshops hosted by local Boy Scout troop
October 6 at 2 p.m.
Jacob Anthony, a member of Concord Boy Scout Troop 132 and resident of Lincoln, will be leading two technology workshops for Lincoln seniors. The workshops will take place on October 6 and December 2 from 2-4 p.m. in Bemis Hall. Each workshop will consist of a presentation on email (October 6) and internet safety (December 2), followed by a chance for COA members to work with scouts from the troop and troubleshoot any issues they have with their portable electronic devices. The classes will conclude with a refreshment period for socializing. Seniors are invited to bring their personal electronic devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops) that they would like help with to the workshop. Please sign up by calling the COA at 781-259-8811.

The Supreme Court with Walter Bossert
October 6 at 2 p.m.
Get a deeper understanding of the Supreme Court that has influenced almost every aspect of American life for over 200 years when Lincoln resident Walter Bossert presents “The Supreme Court.” The program will be on Saturday, Oct. 6 from 2 to 4:15 p.m. at the library (not Bemis Hall). First, you’ll watch a video by C-Span including interviews with 11 justices about the role, traditions, and history of the Court and a tour of the Supreme Court building. Following the video, Bossert will discuss the Supreme Court case Central Hudson v. PSC (1980), a seminal case on commercial freedom of speech. For that case, Bossert successfully organized and led a three-man team for a favorable 8–1 decision, and was a co-author of the winning brief. Questions will be welcomed after the discussion. Co-sponsored by the COA and the Lincoln Public Library.

Free wellness clinic for all ages
October 9 at 10 a.m.
Meet with a nurse at 50 Wells Road in Lincoln Woods on Tuesday, Oct. 9 from 10 a.m. to noon. Blood pressure, nutrition and fitness, medication management, chronic disease management, resources, and more. Services provided by Emerson Hospital Home Care.

Getting the most out of your iPhone and iPad
October 11 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 Thursday, Oct. 11 at 9:30 a.m. to give you more information on the operation and features of iPhones and iPads and answer your questions. If you have tips for using your iPhone or iPad, bring those, too.

What you need to know about Instagram
October 11 at 11 a.m.
Instagram is the latest thing among the kids and you might enjoy this fun and simple way to share photos and videos with your friends and family. Come to Bemis Hall on Thursday, Oct. 11 at 11 a.m. to hear Andy Payne talk about Instagram, what it is, how to use it safely, and how to communicate via hashtags. He will demonstrate what it is, show you how to set up an account, and give some tips.

LGBT-focused group for older adults to share tea and conversation
October 12 at 10 a.m.
All are invited to enjoy tea and conversation at a new LGBT-focused group to be held the second Friday of each month at 10 a.m. at Bemis Hall. Come share your thoughts, ideas, and life experiences. Another group will also be held November 9. Older adults from other towns most welcome.

Town Clerk voter update
October 12 at 11 a.m.
Join Interim Town Clerk Valerie Fox on Friday, Oct. 12 at 11 a.m. at Bemis Hall to find out what you need to know to make sure you can make your voice be heard by voting November 6. The deadline for registering to vote for the November 6 election is October 17. Find out about how to get an absentee ballot and vote absentee, early voting, making sure you’re registered, and more. Valerie will even check to make sure you’re on the voting rolls.

A trunk full of tales – sharing personal and family stories
October 12 at 1 p.m.
Our lives are made of stories. Stories of our family members and ancestors who influenced our lives, and our own stories of the experiences that helped us become who we are today. They live inside us, but too often we don’t feel they are valuable to others or we just don’t know how to tell them. Sharing and hearing both the fun and tough stories is healing for ourselves and important for our children, grandchildren, and peers. Join Lincoln native and professional storyteller Elisa Pearmain on Friday, Oct. 12 at 1 p.m. at Bemis Hall for an engaging and playful workshop on remembering, shaping, and sharing personal and family stories. You may bring an item (or facsimile) that has been passed to you, or that represents an experience that touched your life. No experience necessary.

Lincoln Academy with Avram Kalisky: A voyage through Scandinavia
October 15 at 12:30 p.m.
Come to Bemis Hall on Monday, Oct. 15 at 12:30 to hear Avram Kalisky discuss “A Voyage Through Scandinavia.” Join Avram Kalisky as he takes you on a voyage through Scandinavia that he and Esther enjoyed in 2004. You will visit, vicariously, Copenhagen, Sweden, and a number of locations in Norway, where you will take a train trip with an old steam engine, visit churches, have a barbecue next to a lake, eat shrimp fresh from the sea, and more. Avram will also share thoughts on the current situation in Israel. 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
October 15 at 2 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, Oct. 15 from 2–3 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.

Senior dining
October 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, Oct. 16 at St. Anne’s Church. Please reserve by calling the COA at 781-259-8811. The cost of each meal is $5. Caregivers are welcome to come with those for whom they are caring. Let them know when you call 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. Enjoy a Lunch free during your birthday. All you need to do is let them know at the reception desk.

Fall barbecue for veterans and spouses/partners
October 17 at 12 p.m.
All Lincoln veterans and their spouses/partners are welcome to another of the COA’s famous Veterans Barbecues on Wednesday, Oct. 17 at noon. The BBQ will feature a delicious lunch of barbecued pork or chicken or beef brisket. Please sign up by calling the COA at 781-259-8811 by October 10. A $5 donation is requested.

Tour of Trinity Church and tea at the Boston Public Library
October 18 at 10 a.m.
Join the COA on Thursday, Oct. 18 for a guided tour of Trinity Church in Boston, designated as “one of the ten most important buildings in America” by the American Institute of Architects. It was founded in 1734. You will then take a short walk to the Boston Public Library for High Tea in the Courtyard Restaurant. The High Tea features assorted savory tea sandwiches, scones, petit fours and tea. The caterer is incredible and you will not be disappointed. There will be time to view the Gallery and tour the architecture of its famed Central Library buildings as well as the art treasures within. The bus will leave Donelan’s parking lot at 10 a.m. and return at approximately 3:15 p.m. This trip is rated moderate with walking, standing and negotiating stairs. The cost of the trip is $39.00. To reserve a space, send a check made out to FLCOA/Trips to Donna Rizzo, 22 Blackburnian Road, Lincoln, MA 01773. Be sure to include your phone number and email address. Your reservation is complete when your check is received. Questions? Contact Donna at 781-257-5050 or donna@ecacbed.com.

Healing motion for life: a free movement workshop
October 19 at 9 a.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, Oct. 19 at 9 a.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. Another session will be held in November.

The flu shot clinic is back!
October 19 at 10 a.m.
Lincoln residents 65 and over are invited to come to the Board of Health/COA flu clinic at Bemis Hall on Friday, Oct. 19 from 10 a.m. to noon. Please wear a short-sleeved shirt and bring your insurance cards, but there is no out-of-pocket charge to you. They will have the quadrivalent form of the vaccine which makes up approximately 80 percent of available 2018-2019 vaccine and is indicated for a majority of the adult population. Check with your doctor if you have questions about the high-dose vaccine. Services provided by Emerson Hospital Home Care.

Stay on your feet with the Better Balance Fair
October 19 at 1 p.m.
Find out how to improve your balance and prevent injury if you fall at a Better Balance Fair on Friday, Oct. 19 from 1–3 p.m. at Bemis Hall. The fair is free and sponsored by the Lincoln Fire Department and the COA. At 1 p.m., attend a demonstration by Jane Moss, a COA tai chi teacher, of how tai chi improves balance, or watch a video about how to prevent fall injuries. At 2 p.m., attend a demonstration by Lana Israel, who teaches Lana’s Ultimate Fitness classes for the Parks and Rec Department, of exercises that can help you improve and maintain your strength and balance to prevent falls or practice how to fall to prevent injury. You will also be able to take home lots of information about other programs and services. The Fire Department will be providing delicious refreshments.

Share tips or get help at smartphone meetup
October 22 at 11 a.m.
Do you have a smart phone that you would like to learn more about or be able to use better? Or, can you give smart phone pointers? Come to a group that will be facilitated by Carol Peskin for smart phone users to share tips and get help on Monday, Oct. 22 at 11 a.m. at Bemis Hall. This isn’t a class, but rather a chance for people to teach each other. Whether you’re new to smart phones or are a pro, this group is for you.

Lincoln Academy with Carol Paik: NYC landmarks from a recycled doll’s perspective
October 22 at 12:30 p.m.
Come to Bemis Hall on Monday, Oct. 22 at 12:30 to hear Carol Paik discuss “NYC Landmarks from a Recycled Doll’s Perspective.” A recycling project became much more than that when former corporate litigator Carol Paik, daughter of Lincoln residents Frank and Wanda Paik, decided to combine her passion for dollmaking with her being a quintessential New Yorker, creating a new handmade doll and outfit out of old discarded stuff every week for one year, pairing them with iconic NYC landmarks such as the Met, Central Park, the Cloisters, Natural History Museum, Botanical Gardens, WTC, Whitney Museum, Governors’ Island, Roosevelt Island, Brooklyn Bridge, Chinatown, Staten Island ferry, the Plaza Hotel, etc., delving lightly into history, literature, poetry and celebrity quotes. Come hear Carol describe her project and exhibit a sampling of her resting stitch face dolls and their write-ups. You can see more of her dolls at www.restingstitchfacenyc.com. 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.

Medicare open enrollment insurance update
October 26 at 10 a.m.
Find out what changes could affect your Medicare coverage and how much you will pay in 2019 when Don Milan and Anne Meade, Lincoln’s counselors from the Minuteman Senior Services SHINE Program-health benefits counseling for Medicare enrollees, come to Bemis Hall on Friday, Oct. 26 at 10 a.m. This is an important time to ;understand the changes for 2019 and to be sure you ;are satisfied with your current health insurance benefits. Medicare open enrollment period—Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, 2018—is your opportunity to make any changes to your Medicare coverage, effective Jan. 1. Representatives from most major supplemental health insurance plans (Harvard Pilgrim, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Tufts, Fallon, and AARP/United Health Care) will have 2019 information for Medicare Supplement plans, Medicare Advantage plans and Part D plans. Also present will be Peter Harvell, Veterans Service Officer.

Note: This program is designed to go over 2019 changes in basic Medicare, Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage insurance plans. On Monday, Nov. 5 at 7 p.m., SHINE will present an in-depth “Medicare 101” to go over the basics of Medicare and the different types of insurance plans (Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage) available to supplement coverage. SHINE provides accurate, unbiased information regarding health insurance and prescription drug options through community education and free, confidential counseling for Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers. Minuteman Senior Services provides a variety of services that help seniors and people with disabilities live in the setting of their choice. For more information, call toll-free 888-222-6171 or visit www.minutemansenior.org.

Lincoln Academy with Ruth Mendelson: Producing Jane Goodall
October 29 at 12:30 p.m.
Come to Bemis Hall on Monday, Oct. 29 at 12:30 to hear Ruth Mendelson discuss “Producing Jane Goodall.” For the past two years, composer/producer Ruth Mendelson has been working with longtime friend Dr. Jane Goodall, creating the updated audio version of her classic book, My Life with the Chimpanzees. After recording and editing Dr. Goodall’s narration track, Ruth created an elaborate soundscape for the audio book—akin to an old-fashioned radio show in which all text is illustrated with sound. For this week’s Lincoln Academy, Ruth will discuss aspects of production, demonstrating how she created the soundscapes for the book as well as premier tracks. 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.

Council on Aging activities in July

Lincoln Traditional Jazz Band
July 5 at 12:30 p.m.
Jazz up your summer at Bemis Hall on Thursday, July 5 at 12:30 p.m. when the Lincoln Traditional Jazz Band will share with you their love of traditional jazz music. The group are all retirees, amateur musicians who give expression to their love of the jazz of the ’20s, ’30s and ’40s at Bemis the first Thursdays (summer) at 12:30 or Fridays (fall) or the third Saturdays at 1:00.

Free wellness clinic for all ages
July 10 at 10 a.m.
Meet with a nurse at 50 Wells Rd. in Lincoln Woods on Tuesday, July 10 from 10 a.m. to noon. Blood pressure, nutrition and fitness, medication management, chronic disease management, resources, and more. Provided by Emerson Hospital Home Care.

Sip and paint by the numbers
July 11 at 1 p.m.
The COA is combining two fun trends into one. Come “sip and paint” with some non-alcoholic wine while you “paint by the numbers,” a hobby from long ago that’s making a comeback and was recently featured in Historic New England magazine. You’ll have a masterpiece in no time. The session will be on Wednesday, July 11 at 1 p.m. at Bemis Hall. You don’t need to bring anything, just a willingness to socialize and have fun. The COA will provide the paint-by-number kits. Please call the COA at 781-259-8811 to sign up as the number of kits is limited.

Dinner al fresco before the Alter Ego Concert at the Codman Pool
July 11 at 5 p.m.
If you’ve never been to one of the Parks and Recreation concerts at the Codman Pool, you’re in for a treat. The band Alter Ego will play at 6 p.m. on July 11. At 5 p.m., Parks and Recreation, the COA, Lincoln Family Association, and the Girl Scouts invite you to bring a picnic dinner and spend some quality time lounging by the pool. You’ll meet old friends and new and have a great time. You may use the pool for the usual fee. Co-sponsored by the Council on Aging, Lincoln Parks and Recreation, the Lincoln Family Association, and the Girl Scouts.

Draw your pet class for beginners
July 12 at 10 a.m.
If you have always wanted to draw, but didn’t know how to begin, this is the class for you. Artist and Lincoln resident Bernadette Quirk will show you how to draw a lifelike picture from a photo of your pet, 5×7 or larger You’ll learn how to sketch your pet, then fill in shading and other details to make your work more lifelike. You will leave with a drawing that you can finish at home. The class will be given on Thursday, July 12 at 10 a.m. at Bemis Hall. Materials are provided, but bring a spiral notebook for notes. The class is free but please sign up by calling the COA at 781-259-8811 so they know how many to expect. Limited to eight people. If there is interest, they may offer a weekly open studio.

Share tips for or get help using your smart phone
July 23 at 1 p.m.
Do you have a smart phone that you would like to learn more about or be able to use better? Or, can you give smart phone pointers? Come to a group that will be facilitated by Carol Peskin for smart phone users to share tips and get help on Monday, July 23 at 1 p.m. at Bemis Hall. This isn’t a class, but rather a chance for people to teach each other. Whether you are new to smart phones or have them all figured out, this group is for you. If there’s enough interest, the COA will continue the group in the fall.

Who’s in your family tree?
July 24 at 2 p.m.
Tracing your family tree is like a treasure hunt of self-discovery. You will be surprised, moved, enlightened, and inspired—but discovering ancestors takes time and a nose for sleuthing. Whether you are just starting out or have been at it for years, you’ll enjoy sharing your stories, tips, and resources with others (and hearing about what works for others might help you, too) on Tuesday, July 24 at 2 p.m. at Bemis Hall when the COA holds a discussion group for genealogy enthusiasts. If there is interest, the COA will continue the group in the fall.

Picnic in Pierce Park
July 26 at 4 p.m.
Enjoy a relaxing early evening picnic at the Pierce Park on Thursday, July 26 from 4 to 6 p.m.. We’ll bring the pizza, cookies, and drinks, or bring your own dinner. There will be intergenerational games and activities for all of us to participate in together, or you can just sit and have fun watching the kids play. If you are a senior, please call the COA at 781-259-8811 to sign up and let them know if you would like pizza so they’re sure there is enough to go around. Co-sponsored by the Council on Aging, Lincoln Parks and Recreation, the Lincoln Family Association, the Girl Scouts, and the Pierce House.

Boston Harbor cruise and clambake
July 26 at 4:45 p.m.
Come with the COA on Thursday, July 26 for the Boston Harbor Spectacle Island Clambake Cruise. You will travel on a comfortable air-ride bus to Long Wharf where you will board a Boston Harbor boat for the cruise to Spectacle Island. On the island you’ll enjoy a classic New England Clambake/ Lobster Dinner, with beautiful views of the Boston Skyline. If you are lucky there will be a lovely sunset. The bus will leave Donelan’s parking lot at 4:45 p.m., returning approximately at 10 p.m.. This trip is rated moderate, with walking, standing and negotiating stairs. The ramp for embarking and disembarking on the boat is not steady and not level, so, unfortunately, it is probably not safe for those with walkers. The cost of the trip is $68 per person, which includes the cruise and dinner. Beer and wine will be for sale on the island. To reserve a space, send a check made out to FLCOA/Trips to Donna Rizzo, 22 Blackburnian Rd., Lincoln, MA 01773. Be sure to include your phone number and email address. Your reservation is complete when your check is received. Questions? Contact Donna at 781-257-5050 or donna@ecacbed.com.

Learn how to fall to prevent injury with the Fire Dept.
July 30 at 11:30 a.m.
While preventing falls is always best, if you do fall, do you know how to fall to prevent injury? You need to know both how to land as well as what to do after you fall so that you don’t make injuries worse. Come to Bemis Hall on Monday, July 30 at 11:30 a.m. when Ben Juhola of the Lincoln Fire Department will show you how to fall, discuss fall prevention, and tell you what to do if you do fall. The Fire Department will also be providing lunch, so please call the COA at 781-259-8811 to sign up so we know how many are coming.

News acorns

Softball league getting underway

The Lincoln Co-Ed Softball League’s third season starts on June 24 and ends on August 9, and more players are always welcome. Click here for more information and registration, and save the date for a June 23 kickoff party.

Summer fitness for adults

The Parks and Recreation Department’s summer classes include Gentle Yoga in the Park and Pickleball, a popular racquet sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. Players use paddles and a plastic ball with holes similar to a whiffle ball. All equipment will be provided. Classes July 8 to August 12 are held on the Sport Court next to the Brooks parking lot. Click here for registration information.

Lincoln resident Melinda Bruno-Smith, a certified hatha yoga instructor, will lead Saturday yoga sessions in Station Park Garden. Classes ($10 each) are 9–10 a.m. and run through July 21. Register online for as many sessions as you wish, or bring a check made out to the Town of Lincoln (no cash, please). If it’s raining, class will be canceled. Please bring a yoga mat or towel to practice on and wear loose-fitting clothing.

Saturday hours at the library

The Lincoln Public Library will be open on Saturdays from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. from July 7–28. It will be closed on Saturdays during August. Regular Saturday hours (10 a.m.–5 p.m.) will resume on September 8. 

Council on Aging activities in May

Piano class with Wanda Paik
May 1 and 15 at 10 a.m.
Dust off your piano music books and come to the piano class at the COA led by Wanda Paik. This class is open to all pianophiles, whatever your level, to play, share, and learn more about how to play and practice to help reach your goals. This class will be held on May 1 and 15 from 10–11:15 a.m. at Bemis Hall.

Mindfulness walks in nature
May 1 at 1 p.m.
Spring can be a very special time to connect with nature through walking in a mindful way. Join naturalist John Calabria for a series of walks in some of Lincoln’s most beautiful places on Tuesdays May 1 and June 5 beginning at 1 p.m. Where the walks will take place is to be determined. Unplug, disconnect from the world for a while and let your senses come alive in nature. These are co-sponsored by the Lincoln Land Conservation Trust and the Lincoln Council on Aging. For more information, including locations of the walks, go to lincolnconservation.org.

Surviving and thriving through life’s challenges
May 2 at 9:30 a.m.
No matter what your phase of life or what you have encountered in life, you can learn and apply the scientifically-proven tenants of Positive Psychology to become more resilient and happier. Come to Bemis Hall at 9:30 on Wednesdays, May 2, 16, and 30 and June 13 to learn practical strategies, share practices, build connections and support each other. Facilitated by Alyson Lee, Social Worker, Life Coach, Certified and Licensed Facilitator of Positive Psychology. Funded by the Friends of the COA.

The many faces of loss: a new group
May 2 at 10 a.m.
As we age we confront loss in many forms. It may be the death of loved ones. It may also be dealing with physical health, or cognitive changes in loved ones, friends or in ourselves. It may include regrets about lost opportunities and we may also confront the recognition of our own mortality. Claire Gerstein, LICSW, one of the COA’s social workers with many years of experience helping people navigate the losses of later life, will be facilitating a group that will give people the opportunity to talk about these issues in a supportive environment. The six-week group will run on Wednesdays 10–11:30 on May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 and June 6. Signing up by calling the COA at 781-259-8811 is helpful but not required. [Read more…] about Council on Aging activities in May

News acorns

Forum on bike safety

There will be a Mass. Bike Forum co-sponsored by the Lincoln Cycling Safety Advisory Committee and members of the MetroWest cycling community to discuss how towns can create a safe cycling network in Middlesex County on Wednesday, March 28 from 7–9 p.m. in Bemis Hall. Richard Fries, executive director of MassBike, will speak on “Middlesex Revelations,” followed small-group brainstorming from 7:45–8:30 p.m. and a plenary discussion incorporating a summary, prioritization, and next steps from 8:30–9 p.m.

Fundraiser for L-S scholarships

Lotus Blossom (394 Boston Post Rd., Sudbury) will sponsor a fundraiser for the Lincoln-Sudbury Scholarship Fund on Tuesday, March 27. The restaurant will donate 20 of all orders between the hours of 5–9 p.m. when customers mention LSSF when ordering. There will also be representatives in attendance to answer questions about the scholarship application process.

Take library survey

The Lincoln Public Library encourages all residents to take the community survey to helpguide improvements and shape the future as it develops a new five-year plan of service. Each person in the household (kids too!) can submit a survey individually. Click here to take the survey.

Workshop on remembering names

The Friends of the Lincoln Public Library and the Friends of the Lincoln Council on Aging are co-sponsoring a free “Remembering Names” workshop with Neil Kutzen on Thursday, April 5 at 6:30 p.m. in the library’s Tarbell Room. The workshop will train attendees to remember the name of anyone they meet using Kutzen’s MemorizeBest program. Preregistration is required. To register, call 781-259-8465 ext. 202 or email lrothenberg@minlib.net.

Wates plays at next LOMA night

Rupert Wates

Rupert Wates is the featured performer at the next LOMA (Lincoln Open-Mike Acoustic) night on Monday, April 9 in the Lincoln Public Library’s Tarbell Room. The event runs from 7-10 p.m., and Wates will perform a half-hour set starting around 8:30. He has released nine albums and he can be seen in this video performing “Waiting to Begin.” 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.