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

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harvestHarvest feast at Drumlin Farm

For the first time ever, Drumlin Farm will play host to their locally sourced Fall Harvest Feast on Sunday, Oct. 11 from 4:30-7 p.m. The event, arranged by Food and Farm Educator Emma Scudder, will feature the sustainable farm’s just-picked fall harvest and late summer yield preserves.

“We wanted to create casual, family-friendly dinner that happens to be made using all of the freshest, local ingredients,” says Scudder. “Farm-to-table is about community. It’s about appreciating the food we have growing around us and the farmers who grow it.”

Starting at 4:30 p.m., guests can roam the fields with Scudder and Katarina Goldenberg, Drumlin Farm CSA Coordinator, who will share their knowledge about sustainable farming and agriculture. After working up an appetite, guests can bundle up by a warm fire in Drumlin Farm’s Nature Center and enjoy pizza made with late summer and early fall harvest produce and meat. Also on the menu is squash soup, a heart kale salad, homemade beverages, and festive ice cream.

Advance registration is required.or Mass Audubon members are are $20 for adults and $12 for children, or $25 and $15 for nonmembers.  Register online or call Jennifer Riley at 781-259-2200.

Three school committees to hold public forum

Two communities, three districts… Are there ideas or topics that the Lincoln and Sudbury school communities should talk about together? Do you have questions about transitioning to the high school or community supports for social and emotional health, or are you interested in hearing about current research regarding school start times? The Lincoln preK-8, Sudbury K-8, and L-S School Committees invite Lincoln, Sudbury and Boston METCO community members to a public forum on Wednesday, Oct. 21 from 7-9 p.m. in Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School library. The forum will begin with a short presentation period followed by an opportunity to brainstorm topics that are relevant to all three districts, and will conclude with a joint meeting of the three school committees.

Operatic divas, meditation programs, and Isabella Stewart Gardner at the library
  • Meditation workshop with Natalia Cepeda — Saturday, Oct. 17 from 3-4:30 p.m. Learn and practice easy meditation techniques and key philosophical principles to implement right away, plus tools for reducing stress, improving relationships, or just having more joy in your life.
  • “A Voice Fest: Operatic Divas with Erika Reitshamer” — Sunday, Oct. 25 at 2 p.m. in the library’s Tarbell Room. This lecture and multimedia presentation will feature world-renowned divas including Renata Tebaldi, Maria Callas, Leontyne Price, and Beverly Sills, as well as fabulous singers of the present day.
  • A reminder that character re-enactor Jessa Piaia will present a dramatic portrayal of Gardner in “A Visit with Isabella Stewart Gardner: America’s First Patroness of the Arts” at the library on Saturday, Oct. 24 at 2 p.m. (see the Lincoln Squirrel, September 4, 2015).

News acorns

artshow

Open Studio art to be displayed in library

During the month of October, artworks by members of Lincoln’s Open Studio group will be displayed and on sale at the Lincoln Public Library.The show features the group’s best work in recent years in a variety of styles. The group meets every Thursdays in Hartwell pod B from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and new artists are welcome. Register through the Parks and Recreation website or call 781-259-0784.

Pumkpin fun at Codman Farm

The 4th annual Lincoln Girl Scouts Pumpkin Sale takes place on Saturday, Oct. 24 from 2-5 p.m. at Codman Farm (rain date: Oct. 25). Come and support the Lincoln Girl Scouts and enjoy a bake sale, face-painting and pumpkin decorating as you stock up on pumpkins for Halloween.

Talk about death at the Death Café

St. Anne’s in-the-Fields Church is hosting a Death Café on Sunday, Oct. 25 from 2:30-4:30 p.m. as it did last year (see the Lincoln Squirrel, Oct. 8, 2014). Death Café is an international movement started in Europe dedicated to taking death out of the closet and discussing it publicly. At a Death Café, people come together to eat cake, drink tea and to discuss death in a relaxed and non-threatening setting. There are no agendas or objectives. It is not a bereavement or grief support group, nor is it a counseling session; it is simply conversation. The event is free, but space is limited and preregistration is required. Register via the St. Anne’s website. Learn more at www.DeathCafe.com.

Kids’ book author visit, ongoing groups

Sarah Brannen, who grew up in Lincoln, reads and discusses her new picture book Madame Martine Breaks the Rules on Wednesday, Oct. 14 from 4-5 p.m. at the Lincoln Public Library. Recommended for ages 4-7 but all are welcome; no registration necessary. The library also has several children’s book groups starting up:

  • Together Time Tales — For kids in grades 2 and 3 and their parents; meets on the first Monday of the month from 6-6:45 beginning October 5. Each family will receive one copy of the book to be read together. Books will be available two weeks prior to the meetings. The first book is The Firework-Maker’s Daughter by Philip Pullman. Advance signup required; email dleopold@minlib.net.
  • Books and Bites — for kids in grades 4-6; meets every other Thursday from 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. beginning October 8. Books are available at the Children’s Desk two weeks prior to the meeting. The book for the Oct. 9 meeting will be The Terrible Two by Mac Barnett. No signup required.
  • Middle Grade Book Share — for seventh- and eighth-graders; meets on the last Monday of the month from 7-8 p.m. beginning on October 26. No signup required. This is an opportunity to share what you’re reading and discover new books based on other kids’ recommendations.

See the children’s program page on the library’s website for other reading groups and activities for kids of all ages.

Campus Master Plan Committee schedules forum

The Community Center Study Committee's "preferred option." Click on the image for more options and interior design ideas.

The Community Center Study Committee’s “preferred option.”

The Lincoln Campus Master Planning Committee (CMPC) invites all Lincoln residents as well as Lincoln School faculty and staff to attend its first public forum on Thursday, Oct. 15 from 7-9 p.m. in the Brooks Gym.

The CMPC, which was jointly formed by the Board of Selectmen and the School Committee in June, is in the process of evaluating the infrastructure and layout of the Ballfield Road campus to inform plans for the renovated Lincoln School and a contemplated community center building. The group met regularly throughout the summer and is working alongside external consultants LLB Architects as they review the earlier School Building Advisory Committee efforts and the Community Center Feasibility Committee study conducted last year, share initial findings, and solicit input from the community—especially those who visit the campus frequently.

Town officials and consultants also presented options and price estimates for both projects at the November 2014 State of the Town meeting.

Residents are also encouraged to attend one of two follow-up CMPC forums on Friday, Oct. 30. The CMPC will present at the PTO’s monthly meeting from 8:15-9:30 a.m. in the library story room and also at a Council on Aging session at 1 p.m. in Bemis Hall.

News acorns

acornLincoln Democratic Town Committee to meet

At its next meeting on Saturday, Oct. 3 from 10 a.m. to noon in Bemis Hall, the Lincoln Democratic Town Committee will provide an overview of events and speakers at the recent state Democratic convention, and Lincoln resident John Terrell will discuss his pending 2016 Town Meeting resolution asking the town to divest all investments in companies involved in the fossil fuel industry as a means of mitigating climate change. Attendees will also discuss recent national events including visits by Pope Francis and Chinese President Xi Jingping and discussion of immigration, climate change, preparation for the upcoming Paris Climate Conference, and reliance on diplomacy as a priority rather than military force in resolution of international conflict. The meeting is open to the public.

Presentation on helping traumatized children

The Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable presents “Helping Children Cope With Common Childhood Challenges” on Tuesday, Oct. 13 at 7 p.m. in the Community Room of the Goodnow Library (21 Concord Road, Sudbury). Speakers will be:

  • Stephanie Howard, Ph.D., a licensed clinical psychologist and director of Project We Can Talk About It (the domestic violence team at Children’s Charter Trauma Clinic, a division of the Key Program). Combining research, clinical experience and thought-provoking discussions, she brings to life the devastating impact of domestic violence on children.
  • Joel M. Ristuccia, Ed.M., a certified school psychologist with over 25 years of experience working in the public schools. He has consulted on the impact of trauma on student learning to the Trauma and Learning Policy Initiative (TLPI) and is co-author of Helping Traumatized Children Learn. He has consulted for the MGH Department of School Psychiatry, and nationally on topics related to the impact of trauma on students’ behaviors that can lead to punitive discipline and school failure.
 “Ogden Codman Jr.: Transatlantic Tastemaker”

Lincoln’s Ogden Codman Jr. attained professional prominence in Gilded Age society as a co-author with Edith Wharton of the best-selling design manual The Decoration of Houses. Drawing on classical influences from both sides of the Atlantic, he designed buildings and interiors for clients including Vanderbilts and Rockefellers. An architectural historian, he also documented historic structures in America and France, a legacy that continues to aid scholars today. Discover the life and oeuvre of this transatlantic tastemaker during a talk on Saturday, Oct. 24 from 1-3 p.m. at the Codman Estate’s Carriage House featuring quotes and images from Historic New England’s archives, followed by a tour highlighting Codman’s 1890s redecoration of his family home, the Codman Estate.

The lecture is followed by an optional tour of the Codman House museum. Registration is required. Please call 617-994-6690 for more information or buy tickets online (Historic New England members and Lincoln residents $10; nonmembers $15).

St. Joseph’s gets new choir director/organist

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Daniel Farretta, the new organist for St. Joseph’s Church.    Photo: Patricia Fitzsimmons

Daniel Farretta is the new choir director and organist for St. Joseph’s Church in Lincoln. He plays at the 10:30 Mass on Sunday mornings, beginning with a prelude of music at 10:15.

Faretta noted that the choir needs a soprano (singers needn’t have experience or be Catholic). For more information, email Sylvia Kennedy at sylpky@verizon.net. 

October doings from the Council on Aging

bemisHere are the October activities hosted by the Lincoln Council on Aging.

Hot jazz for a cool fall afternoon
October 1 at 2:30 p.m.
Whether you like your jazz hot or cool, you’ll love the Trad Jazz Sextet free concert on Thursday, Oct. 1 at 2:30 p.m. at Bemis Hall. This roving band of jazz-lovin’ retirees will have you on your feet dancing one minute, then reminiscing to favorites that will bring back sweet memories the next. Nothing is better for lifting your mood than music, so treat yourself to an afternoon of fun, entertainment, and uplifting old-timey tunes.

Wellness clinics for all ages
October 2 at 10 a.m.
All Lincoln residents are invited to meet with a nurse at Lincoln Woods’ Community Building at 50 Wells Rd. on Friday, Oct. 2 from 10 a.m. to noon. These clinics are funded by the Ogden Codman Trust and provided by Emerson Hospital Home Care. [Read more…] about October doings from the Council on Aging

Lincoln Democrats attend state convention

democrat_donkey_logoBy Gary Davis

Delegates from the Lincoln Democratic Town Committee (LDTC) attended the September 19 Massachusetts Democratic “Action Agenda” Convention in Springfield, which focused on key progressive issues such as income inequality and opportunity, voting rights, women’s rights, the contribution of unions, the Massachusetts progressive legacy, organizing for the grassroots success, and the 2016 presidential campaign.

The LDTC delegation was energized by the range of progressive issues highlighted during the convention and studied more in depth at the break-out sessions for subjects including voting rights, income inequality, and grassroots organizing strategies. The convention delegation elected by the LDTC consisted of Sharon Antia, Graham Atkin, Peter Georgiou, Mari Haass, Peter Pease, John Santa, Brigid Sheehan, Barbara Slayter and Gary Davis.

The enthusiastic convention crowd was treated to stirring speeches by U.S. Sens. Markey and Warren and new Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey. Each of them addressed the convention theme that, given the growth of the economy over the past several years, working-class income has remained stagnant. Sen. Markey reminded delegates of our legacy as national leaders and challenged delegates that we have more work to do. Sen. Warren enthusiastically spoke of core values, encouraged delegates to fight for those values, and chided Republican candidates for their recent threats to shut down the government as had been so disastrous in 2013.

The 2016 Democratic presidential candidates were represented by some well-known surrogates since the candidates were busy campaigning in New Hampshire. Former Vermont Gov. Howard Dean’s inspirational comments described Hillary Clinton as the most qualified candidate with the most thorough grasp of both domestic and foreign policy. National Nurses United Co-president Karen Higgins referred to the growing national support of Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders’ populist message. Boston City Councilor Matt O’Malley spoke of the accomplishments of another candidate, former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley (apparently no relation). Each speaker was reinforced by their candidate’s enthusiastic supporters.

The convention approved several resolutions including support for a fair carbon pricing legislative bill—“An Act Combating Climate Change” developed by Lincoln’s state Sen. Michael Barrett. Another resolution supported the “We The People Act” to overturn the Supreme Court’s “Citizens United” decision as endorsed last spring by Lincoln residents at Town Meeting.

The convention also celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act while denouncing trends in conservative states aimed at suppressing voting, particularly for minorities and students.

Topics covered in the convention will be presented by the delegates at an LDTC meeting open to the public on Saturday, Oct. 3 from 10:00 a.m. to noon in Bemis Hall.

Gary Davis is the chair of the Democratic Town Committee.

New exhibits, kids’ activities at the deCordova

The deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum will debut two fall exhibitions on October 3 and is offering several new children’s activities next month.

Fall exhibitions

Drawing Redefined presents the distinctive work of Roni Horn, Esther Kläs, Joëlle Tuerlinckx, Richard Tuttle, and Jorinde Voigt, artists who have maintained a discipline of drawing as a constituent element of their artistic practice. For these artists, drawing is a forum for experimentation, a study, and an expansion of the vocabulary of images that recur in their art. In these artists’ hands and through their bodies, the traditional practice of drawing is transformed into an exploration of time and space manifest in forms beyond conventional linear representation in photographic, painterly, and sculptural work. See the Drawing Redefined web page for more information on the accompanying catalog.

The Sculptor’s Eye: Prints, Drawings, and Photographs from the Collection—drawn from deCordova’s permanent collection, this exhibition features works on paper and photographs by more than 30 artists who are primarily considered sculptors. Their work reveals the multitude of connections between two- and three-dimensional art-making processes and the means by which artists nurture and expand their creative vision. On view are photographs of sculptural forms that explore shared issues of space and volume. Pencil and charcoal drawings display the inventive ways in which artists experiment with spatial illusion on flat surfaces with graphic gestures, contours, and colors. Plans for large-scale art installations exemplify the tradition of artists considering architectural and environmental spaces. Altogether, these works emphasize the interplay of materiality, line, and form across artistic media. For details on the artists int he exhibition, see the Sculptor’s Eye web page.

Drawing Redefined and The Sculptor’s Eye will run through March 20.

“Enveloped by Drawing”

In conjunction with October’s worldwide drawing festival, The Big Draw, families are invited to participate in creating a temporary large-scale drawn sculpture in the galleries with artist Julia Von Eichel. “Enveloped by Drawing” takes place at the deCordova on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 10 and 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2-4 p.m. For families with children of all ages. Free with admission or membership.

A glimpse of "What does the imagination look like?"

A glimpse of “What does the imagination look like?”

Lincoln Nursery School collaboration

Also on view through November 11 is What Does the Imagination Look Like?—an educational exhibit presented in partnership with Lincoln Nursery School (LNS). The interactive exhibit delves into the process of imagination, drawing directly from young students’ conversations and explorations.

During the past academic year, LNS faculty and deCordova’s Learning and Engagement staff explored the process of imagination through children’s inquiries, negotiations, and transformation of materials. This exhibit showcases their research and makes visible the importance of imagination in students’ learning. Visitors to the exhibit can read LNS students’ conversations, view images drawn by the students, build a collaborative city, or create their own unusual sound score.

In conjunction with the exhibit, noted author and educator John Nimmo and LNS faculty will hold a dialogue on the topic of “The Story Behind the Story: Teachers as Collaborators in Supporting Children’s Inquiry” on Tuesday, Oct. 20 from 7-9 p.m. The program will include discussion about the role of the teacher in making curriculum decision and explore the challenges of collaboration, the potential of learning through conflict, and the importance of seeing teaching as a process of inquiry. Registration and $10 fee required.

Support for deCordova’s Family Learning and Engagement Programs has been provided in part by a grant from the Bessie Pappas Charitable Foundation.

Ongoing kids’ programs

Throughout the year, the deCordova offers two recurring monthly programs for children. The next ARTfull play for ages 2-5 will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 30 from 10:30-11:30 a.m., and the next ARTfull Explorations for ages 2-12 will be on Sunday, Oct. 1 from 1-3 p.m.

News acorns

firstparish-smSing in the First Parish Church choir

Experience the exhilaration and transformative effects of music by singing in the First Parish Church choir. Researchers have recently discovered that singing in a choir confers all sorts of positive physical and psychological effects, as well as being part of a community of soon-to-be friends. The choir is led by music director and organist Ian Watson, who is also the resident conductor, harpsichordist and organist with the Handel and Haydn Society. Ian also has created a successful concert series, Live in Lincoln Center, that often features First Parish choir members and is held at the First Parish several times a year.

The choir is open to all (you don’t need to become a member of First Parish) and is seeking all parts: soprano, alto, tenor and bass. No audition is required—you just need to have a love of music, be able to carry a tune, want to join a great group of people. Practices are on Thursdays from 7-9 p.m. and Sundays from 9-11 a.m. For more information, call the church at 781-259-8118.

Lincoln Cultural Council grant deadline coming up

The postmark deadline for organizations, schools and individuals to apply forLincoln Cultural Council (LCC) grants that support community-oriented arts, humanities and science projects is October 15. This year the LCC intends to award about $4,400 in grants to multiple recipients. Additional information is included in this press release.

The LCC is a part of, and funded by, the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Forms, local policy guidelines, application procedures, tips for applicants, and a list of frequently asked questions can be found at the Lincoln Cultural Council page on the Massachusetts Cultural Council’s official website. If you have questions, please send an email to the LCC. Completed grant applications and a signed copy of the local policy guidelines should be mailed to:

Lincoln Cultural Council
c/o Lincoln Town Offices
16 Lincoln Road
Lincoln, MA 01773

Get ready for Scarecrow Classic 5K road race

The third annual Lincoln Scarecrow Classic 5K road race will be on Sunday, Oct. 18. The race will start and finish at the Mall at Lincoln Station (145 Lincoln Road). Race day registration and packet pickup will begin at 8 a.m. and the race will begin at 9:30. Proceeds from the event will support the Lincoln Land Conservation Trust (LLCT), which helps manage over 2,000 acres of land and nearly 80 miles of public trails in town as a regional recreational resource for the greater Boston area.

The first 350 entrants will receive a free long-sleeve tech shirt, and there are prizes for the first three winners in each of seven age groups ranging from age 10 to 70+ (see race results from the past two years). There’s also a post-race celebration including plenty of food from local vendors. Register online for the Scarecrow 5K for $30 in advance or on the morning of the event for $35. If you’re interested in volunteering, please contact race director Geoff McGean at 781-259-9250 or McGean.RLF@lincolnconservation.org.

Also available: raffle tickets to benefit the LLCT with prizes donated by local businesses. To buy raffle tickets, ask an LLCT trustee or visit the LLCT offices at 145 Lincoln Rd., Suite 102A (above the Post Office at Lincoln Station). Call 781-259-9251 or email llct@lincolnconservation.org with questions.