In the September 14 article headlined “Architects, CCBC refine options for community center,” Option 3 for the community center was incorrectly described and a quote from CCBC member Tim Christenfeld was presented slightly out of context. The article has been corrected and also updated with a new penultimate paragraph describing the upcoming State of the Town meeting.
Architects, CCBC refine options for community center
(Editor’s note: This article was updated on September 17.)
Architects and the Community Center Building Committee this week continued to refine the community center options that residents will see at the State of the Town meeting on September 30, ending Wednesday with three main options plus alternates to two of them.
On September 13, ICON Architects offered refinements of the three options they presented on August 16 that will meet the cost limits voted by the town (up to 100%, 75% and 50% of the $25 million estimate from 2022, or $25 million/$18.75 million/$12.5 million). These latest options replace earlier ones with the same names and are based on discussion at the September 13 meeting and a public forum on September 12, plus more detailed figures from their cost estimators. Each new total includes both construction and a 20% add-on for “soft costs” (design, owner’s project manager, furniture and equipment, etc.) Costs are in 2025 dollars.
Option 1 ($20.01 million + soft costs = $24.01 million)
- Demolish all three pods
- Build a single new building of 19,474 square feet that would include 5,000 square feet exclusively for LEAP, the same as it has now
Option 2 ($15.99 million + soft costs = $19.19 million)
- Demolish pods A and B
- Renovate pod C
- Build either a one-story or two-story community center that’s not attached to pod C. A two-story building would have a more compact footprint and probably some roof overhangs to accommodate enough solar panels. The sizes would be similar (12,672 square feet for two stories or 12,285 for one story) and the price tags would be about the same.
Option 3 ($11.44 million + soft costs = $13.73 million)
- Demolish pod A
- Renovate pod B and add 5,485 square feet of new construction to result in a 10,500-square-foot building that’s roughly half new and half renovated
- Leave pods A and C as they are
- Alternate #1: Add another 900 square feet to the new building to meet the minimum size recommended by the architects (added cost: $714,000 for a total of $13.2 million).
- Alternate #2: Include renovation of pod C (added cost: $3.42 million for a total of $15.92 million). If both alternates were accepted, the total cost would be $16.64 million.
In summary, the approximate size of the community center exclusive of LEAP would be:
- 14,470 square feet for Option 1
- 12,285 or 12,672 square feet for Option 2
- 10,500 square feet for Option 3
ICON recommends a community center of at least 13,000 square feet, or 11,400 square feet “at the bare bones end of the spectrum,” said Ned Collier, principal architect. “Just by the numbers, [Option 3] this scheme falls short of our minimal target and does not renovate pod C… and we’ve heard that not renovating LEAP is a show-stopper.”
Renovating all three detached pods without adding more space is also not viable, CCBC member Tim Christenfeld said. “We’ve done really well pushing [the pods] as far as we can for 64 years… The idea that we would bring a proposal to the town for $12 million to move the COA&HS from one suboptimal facility to a different suboptimal facility is just nuts. It’s just pissing the money away if we’re not solving the problems we’re trying to solve.”
There has been some concern in past months about the cost of a much-needed renovation of the LEAP pod and whether it ought to even be considered in the community center construction planning, especially if it’s not physically attached. As one CCBC member said at the September 12 forum, “LEAP is not really our core thing,” but most of those involved assumed that LEAP would be at least renovated regardless of which option is chosen. However, making the LEAP renovation into a separate project would incur additional unnecessary spending for project management, design, and rapidly rising construction costs.
CCBC member Dan Pereira observed that Option 3 plus its alternates “is really another 75% option” in terms of cost. Collier acknowledged that but observed that Option 3 is substantially different from Option 2 in a design sense.
Sara Mattes, a frequent critic of the community center planning process, argued that “the only way it [the measure to design the community center] passed was because it committed to these lower price points. The vote also committed to [the idea that] alternate sites would be fully explored for some activities, and the second piece of the vote has not been fully explored — it’s been summarily dismissed rather than openly discussed.” Studies have shown that Bemis Hall and the Pierce House are not adequate in many ways, and there are ongoing problems with having senior lunches at the First Parish Church. Mattes acknowledged that money would have to be spent to bring Bemis and Pierce up to snuff if a community center isn’t built.
“I feel as if the committee and architects want something more than the 50% option, but I’m worried that the town isn’t going to be very interested in that,” said resident Lynne Smith.
At the State of the Town meeting, each repeating session on the community center will consist of a short presentation, a breakout session, and then a paper survey in which residents can rank their choices (including a “none of the above” option). There will be large drawings of all the options on easels as well as handouts, which will also be available before September 30.
The Finance Committee will discuss borrowing costs and tax implications as part of its SOTT preparations at its September 18 meeting. “The current estimate is that the median tax bill will increase by approximately $300 per year for every $10 million borrowed,” Town Administrator Tim Higgins said on Thursday.
News acorns
Life celebrations for Evelyn Harris, Toby Frost
Evelyn Harris
Toby Frost
Please join Glenn and David Harris as they celebrate the life of their mother Evelyn Harris on Sunday, Sept. 24 at 2 p.m. in Bemis Hall. A reception will follow. If you would like to speak at the service to share a memory of Evelyn, please email glennh.email@gmail.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Evelyn’s memory to Mass Audubon (288 South Great Rd., Lincoln MA 01773).
A celebration of the life of October (Toby) Frost will be held on Sunday, Oct. 1 at 1 p.m. at the Pierce House followed by a reception. Those who knew Toby are welcome to join us.
Evening at Gropius
During this evening slide show and house tour on Friday, Sept. 15 from 7-9 p.m. at the Gropius House (68 Baker Bridge Rd.), see how Walter Gropius’s innovative lighting scheme comes to life at night. Gropius, founder of the German design school the Bauhaus, was one of the most influential architects of the twentieth century. His 1938 home highlights the clean lines of Modernist design. Light refreshments are individual “nibbles” picnic bags. Advance tickets required ($65 for Historic New England members, $75 for nonmembers). Please call 781-259-8098 for more information. Note: the Gropius House is not handicapped-accessible.
“How and Why to Talk to Young Kids About Race”
Join a free public workshop on Monday, Sept. 18 from 7-8:15 p.m. at the Lincoln Public Library on “How & Why to Talk to Young Kids About Race” offered by Story Starters. Designed for caregivers and educators, this workshop will explain the research about how racial bias develops in children from a young age, and provide evidence-based strategies adults can use to disrupt that bias and develop children’s antiracist values. Click here to register.
“Leave the Leaves”
This fall, it couldn’t be easier to support pollinators, provide overwinter shelter for amphibians, nurture the soil, improve water retention, and drawdown carbon. Join us on the first day of fall for “Leave the Leaves: A Zoom Introduction & Conversation on Soil & Climate Benefits” by Lincoln soil microbial ecologist Dr. Rachel Neurath to learn about the benefits of leaving the leaves on Thursday, Sept. 21 at 8 p.m. And save the date for the Lincoln Garden Club’s public meeting on November 7. Kathy Connolly will give a presentation entitled “Leave the Leaves, Save the Stems.” Organized by Lincoln Common Ground and the Lincoln Land Conservation Trust in collaboration with the Lincoln Garden Club and Codman Community Farms. Click here to register.
Kid/caregiver discussion groups about banned books
Celebrate the freedom to read with a conversation between young people and their caregivers at two discussion groups during Banned Books Week at the Lincoln Public Library. On Monday, Sept. 25 at 6 p.m., children’s librarian Debbie Leopold will facilitate a talk for kids age 4+ about Answers in the Pages by David Levithan. Email dleopold@minlib.net to register. Lincoln author Ray Shepard (A Long Time Coming) will host a session with middle schoolers and caregivers on Wednesday, Sept. 27 at 6 p.m. to talk about Stamped by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi. Email sfeather@minlib.net to register.
Submit work to the Lincoln Arts Show
Calling all artists, photographers, potters, jewelers, wood workers, and crafters of all materials! Join us for the 2023 Lincoln Arts (and Crafts) Show on Friday to Sunday, Nov. 17-19 from noon–5 p.m. and an opening reception on Friday, Nov. 17 from 5–7 p.m. at the Pierce House. As always, this open show is for all ages, all creative arts, and all abilities — and student entries are free! We’ve seen 350 attendees at the show each of the past couple of years, so this year we’ll be opening up the second floor to additional displays. Click here for details and registration. Questions? Email Sarah Chester at schester636@gmail.com.
Lecture on Avis and Bernard DeVoto
Author Nate Schweber at the DeVoto Memorial Cedar Grove in Idaho’s Clearwater National Forest.
Award-winning author Nate Schweber brings to life the story of two remarkable environmental warriors and former Lincoln residents Avis and Bernard DeVoto in the next Bemis Free Lecture on Thursday, Oct. 5 at 7 p.m. in Bemis Hall. The DeVotos’ decades-long battle to protect public lands and save our National Park system is chronicled in Schweber’s latest book, This America of Ours: Bernard and Avis DeVoto and the Forgotten Fight to Save the Wild. Lecture immediately followed by book sales and signing with the author. Hosted by the Bemis Free Lecture Series with Friends of Minute Man National Park, Lincoln Historical Society, Lincoln Land Conservation Trust, and Walden Woods Project.
Limited seating; click here for reservations. The event will also be available via livestream and will remain available on the Bemis Free Lecture Series website.
New rotating-topic format for State of the Town meeting
There are four important topics to be discussed at the State of the Town (SOTT) meeting on September 30, and the Select Board has devised a new way to help residents focus and give feedback on them.
Rater than one continuous meeting, there will be four 45-minute repeating rotating sessions in different locations at the Lincoln School. Attendees can choose any or all of the four topics in whatever order they wish. Each session will include a short presentation, smaller group activities, and feedback tools. Overview information about each topic will be available for pickup.
The topics are:
- Housing Choice Act zoning — discuss which of two zoning options that residents will vote on at Annual Town Meeting in March 2024. Rezoning to allow more multifamily housing is required in order for the town to comply with the state Housing Choice Act and remain eligible for various grant programs.
- Community center building project — offer input on the scope of a proposed community center that will be voted on at a Special Town Meeting on December 2.
- Climate Action Plan
- Green Energy Committee’s Climate Action Plan web page
- “Town unveils draft Climate Action Plan” (Lincoln Squirrel, June 28, 2023)
- Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, & Anti-Racism Action Plan
- IDEA Committee webpage with information about work by consultants Racial Equity Group/Elite Research including its town staff/board racial equity audit report, town-wide survey, and focus groups.
The schedule:
- 10–10:45 a.m. — Session 1
- 11–11:45 a.m. — Session 2
- 11:45 a.m.–1 p.m. — Community lunch available for purchase thanks to the Twisted Tree (cash only, please)
- 1:15–2 p.m. — Session 3
- 2:15–3 p.m. — Session 4
There will also be inflatable obstacle courses for kids aged 3–12 to enjoy with parental supervision. The SOTT webpage has maps showing parking, building entrances, and the rooms where the topics will be headquartered.
Police log for August 29–September 7, 2023
August 29
Twin Pond Lane (3:38 p.m.) — A caller reported two unknown individuals arriving at their residence. Police responded to the residence and spoke with them.
Cambridge Turnpike eastbound (7:54 p.m.) — A motorist reported seeing two females walking on Route 2 near exit 125. State police and Concord police were notified. Concord police encountered the females on the overpass by the town line. The females were transported from Route 2.
August 30
North Great Road (10:58 p.m.) — A motorist traveling on Route 2A near Hanscom Drive struck a deer, which ran off into the woods. The vehicle sustained minor damage and was able to be driven from the scene.
Wells Road (11:41 a.m.) — Police were called to assist an individual in obtaining their property that had been given to someone else for repair purposes.
South Great Road (12:19 p.m.) — A motorist struck one of the signs on the 117 island by Lincoln Road. The DPW was notified and repaired the sign.
Conant Road (2:24 p.m.) — An individual called to report some possibly missing some items. Police spoke to the individual.
Wells Road (3:28 pm.) — A caller reported that a large vehicle had been parked for some time behind their residence. An officer spoke to the caller.
Old Sudbury Road (4:23 p.m.) — Police responded to the area for a report of an erratic driver. Weston Police and Wayland Police were also notified.
Doherty’s Garage, Lincoln Road (5:45 p.m.) — A resident called the police to report a passive encounter with a coyote. The Animal Control Officer was notified.
Winchelsea Lane (7:48 p.m.) — A resident called to report excessive noise coming from National Grid trucks working in the area.
Mary’s Way (7:44 p.m.) — A caller reported a dispute with a contractor. Police responded and spoke with the reporting party.
August 31
Winter Street (7:52 p.m.) — A resident reported that a neighbor’s landscapers were using gas-powered leaf blowers.
South Great Road (8:50 a.m.) — A single-vehicle crash was reported on Route 117 at Sweet Bay Lane. The driver reported that they had briefly dozed off and struck a sign and guardrail. The operator was cited for unsafe operation of a motor vehicle and the vehicle was towed from the scene.
Sunnyside Lane (3:07 p.m.) — A motorist reported striking a pothole on Route 2A, resulting in a flat tire. They had AAA coming to assist.
September 1
Bank of America, Lincoln Road 2:12 a.m.) — An officer encountered an individual who reported that they were unhoused and waiting for the next inbound train. When advised that the train would not be arriving for several hours, the individual stated that they would remain where they were until that time. The individual declined all offers for services.
Donelan’s Supermarket, Lincoln Road (2:48 a.m.) — Additional services were offered to the individual from the previous entry. The additional services were declined.
September 2
Codman Road (6:58 a.m.) — An individual was reported to be sleeping in the wooded area adjacent to the police station. Officers offered assistance to the individual, who was seeking transportation to Boston, with supplies and fare for the train.
September 3
Baker Bridge Road (4:11 p.m.) — Several citations were issued to vehicles whose occupants were accessing Walden Pond.
Tower Road (5:21 p.m.) — A resident reported that their Australian terrier was missing. They were provided the contact information for Animal Control.
Minuteman Technical High School (7:02 p.m.) — A caller reported that they were locked in the school’s parking lot. An officer assisted them with exiting the property.
Minuteman Technical High School (7:43 p.m.) — A second individual reported that they were locked in the parking lot the High School. An officer assisted them with exiting the property.
Paul Revere Lot, North Great Road (9:09 p.m.) — An officer checked on a parked, unoccupied vehicle located in the Paul Revere parking lot.
Mill Street (11:02 p.m.) — A suspicious motor vehicle was reported in the area of Mill Street and Lexington Road. The motorist was looking for a place to rest before proceeding to their final destination.
Mary’s Way (11:49 p.m.) — An odor of natural gas was reported in the area. National Grid was notified and was sending a representative to investigate.
September 4
Nothing of note.
September 5
Harvest Circle (2:00 p.m.) — Misplaced items were returned to their owner.
Bedford Road (5:49 p.m.) — A disabled motor vehicle was reported in the intersection of Bedford Road and Route 2A. A tow truck was called to remove it.
Walden Pond boat ramp (6:15 p.m.) —Lincoln firefighters assisted the Concord Fire Department in searching for a reported missing swimmer. The swimmer was located a short time later, safe and sound.
September 6
Lincoln Road (9:57 p.m.) — An individual was observed trespassing on the property of a resident. When confronted by the homeowner, the individual became defensive but left the area. Officers checked the area but were unable to locate them.
September 7
Greenridge Lane (5:16 p.m.) — Police were called to the area for a report of an individual seated behind a tree with a hunting rifle in their lap. Police made contact with the individual, who had a BB gun they were using to hunt squirrels. They were advised to immediately cease and leave the area, which they did.
Farrar Road (6:43 p.m.) — Police responded to a residence for an open front door. The residence was checked; the homeowner confirmed that the door may not have been properly secured and a gust of wind most likely pushed it open.
Upland Field Road (8:12 p.m.) — A motorist inquired where to temporarily park a flatbed trailer. They were told to use the commuter lot with the caveat that the trailer had to be removed prior to 7:00 a.m. the following morning.
News acorns
First Parish kicks off the fall with zoning forum, poetry walk
- Members of the Housing Choice Act Working Group (HCAWG) will present the three options for zoning bylaw proposals that are under consideration in Lincoln on Thursday, Sept. 21 at 7 p.m. in the First Parish Church’s Stearns Room (4 Bedford Rd.). In addition, Michelle Barnes, chair of the Trustees of the Lincoln Land Conservation Trust and the Rural Land Foundation, will present and explain their separate request to change the current zoning for the Lincoln Station Mall area. The event will also be livestreamed here.Residents are encouraged to bring questions to the discussion in preparation for the State of the Town Meeting on Saturday, Sept. 30 at 10 a.m. The Select Board, Planning Board, and the HCAWG will use community feedback to help choose a final option at a multiboard meeting on October 10. The zoning bylaw proposal will be submitted to the state in December and to town residents for a vote at the March 2024 Annual Town Meeting.
- On Friday, Sept. 22 from 1–3 p.m., meet at the famous “twisted tree” in front of Lincoln Public Library for a special Quiet Walks and Poetry for Seekers collaboration. We’ll walk for a mile or two in the neighborhood, stopping four or five times beneath particular trees. Beneath the shade of each tree, we will hear a poem that in some way honors or features that tree species. In between each poem, we will walk in silence. At the end, we will gather in a circle and reflect on what we saw and heard. If the weather looks questionable, email Rev. Nate Klug (nate@fplincoln.org) for the latest updates.
- The service at the First Parish in Lincoln on “Rally Sunday” on Sunday, Sept. 17 at 10 a.m. will include a blessing of the backpacks for our children and joyful music from the choir. With a bit of history during the service, and cake afterwards on the lawn, we’ll also be celebrating the 275th anniversary of the church.
Talk on architect Eleanor Raymond
Historic New England presents “Right Space, Right Time: Eleanor Raymond’s Architecture” on Thursday, Sept. 21 from 7-9 p.m. in the Codman Estate carriage barn and via Zoom. The presenter is Justin Kedl, an artist and scholar with an interest in 20th-century modernism — particularly Surrealism, the Bauhaus school, and Abstract Expressionism who works for Lincoln’s Gropius House and a local pottery studio. Advance tickets required; click here for more information. This program is funded in part by the Lincoln Cultural Council a local agency funded by Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
Codman Community Farms offers array of activities
Here are activities and classes in the coming weeks at Codman Community Farms. Click here for information on all of the farm’s events.
Seed-Saving Workshop
Friday, Sept. 15 from 11 a.m. to noon
With CCF education, outreach and volunteer coordinator Jess Myles (held at Concord Library Fowler branch, 1322 Main St., Concord). Click here to register.
Farm to Table Brunch Tours
Saturday, Sept. 16 and Oct. 14, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Come to the farm to collect your own eggs and veggies and then cook it in our kitchen. This is a combination walking tour of the farm, vegetable harvest, cooking session, and finally brunch. Cost: $55 for adults, $35 for kids. Click here to register.
Flowers in the Field Happy Hour
Saturday, Sept. 16 from 4–5:30 p.m.
What could be better than watching the sunset from our flower patch, with delicious farm snacks and friends? This is a perfect chance to get outside for a night off and enjoy the beauty of the farm, with your own bouquet to bring home. Cost: $40. Click here to register.
Flower Crowns for Kids
Sunday, Sept. 17 from 2-4 p.m.
This class is all about celebrating fall colors and having fun crafting with natural materials. In this class, each kid will learn how to make a traditional flower crown with a combination of fresh and dried flowers to wear and keep. Cost: $40. Click here to register.
Sugar Shack story time
Wednesdays, Sept. 20 to Oct. 25 from 4:15–5 p.m.
Our own Sarah Bishop will be back with her bag of books! Wonderful, funny, and artful stories for kids ages 3-5. Free, but registration is required to drop off tour child; click here.
Cooking at the Farm: Canning Basics with Historic New England
Saturday, Sept. 23 from 2–4 p.m.
We’ll start with a brief tour of the kitchens and grounds at the Codman Estate (including the old greenhouse!) and learn about Dorothy Codman’s family canning recipes and traditions. Then we’ll head to the newly renovated CCF commercial kitchen for a class on the basics of canning with our own farm-grown vegetables. Class fee: $65. Click here to register.
Annual Harvest Feast and Fair
Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 30–Oct. 1
Details TBA; click here for more information.
Medicinal Herb Farm Walk
Thursday, Oct. 5 from 5:30–6:30 p.m.
Join us for a guided walk around the farm with Lincoln’s Lucia Longnecker. We’ll learn how to identify common weeds as well as farm-grown herbs and flowers in their different stages of growth, learn ways to preserve their medicinal qualities, and discuss their traditional medicinal uses. Each participant will get to harvest materials to create their own herbal tea blend. Couse fee: $25. Click here to register.
Fermented Vegetables
Saturday, Oct. 14 from 2–4 p.m.
In this hands-on class, we’ll discuss a little about the traditions and nutrition of fermented foods, and then we’ll make our own sauerkraut and taste a variety of other naturally fermented vegetable condiments. Click here for more information.
Online training for hospice volunteers
Care Dimensions will hold online training classes for those interested in becoming volunteers for the nonprofit organization. Volunteers can help patients by engaging in a shared interest or hobby, helping with letter-writing or life review, reading aloud, listening and providing a supportive, comforting presence, and visiting with your approved dog. Volunteers visit patients in their homes, in facilities, and at our hospice houses in Lincoln and Danvers. If patient visits are not the right fit, you can volunteer in other ways such as providing administrative office support or making check-in phone calls to current patients or bereaved family members. Training will be held via Zoom on Mondays and Wednesdays, Oct. 16 to Nov. 8 from 9-11 a.m. (register by October 2). For more information or to register, click here or email volunteerinfo@caredimensions.org.
Swap shed needs volunteer help
The swap shed at the transfer station is seeking volunteers to help continue reducing waste by reusing and recycling. Volunteers are needed to help residents place their items in the appropriate area, make sure items are acceptable, and help keep the swap shed organized and safe for all to enjoy. Shifts are available Wednesdays and Saturdays for two to four hours. You can commit to once a week, twice a week, once a month, or whatever works with your schedule. If you’d like to volunteer or have any questions, please contact Susan Donaldson at the DPW (donaldsons@lincolntown.org).
Small fire extinguished at 160 Lincoln Rd.
The charred ceiling and attic insulation at the foot of the attic ladder at 160 Lincoln Rd. (Photos courtesy Lincoln Fire Department)
Tenants and visitors evacuated the commercial building along the railroad tracks on Friday, Sept. 1 after a malfunctioning bathroom ceiling fan started a small fire.
Lincoln firefighters responded to a fire alarm activation at the building at 160 Lincoln Rd. at 2:03 p.m. and found the fire in the ceiling fan of the women’s room on the second floor. Someone in the building had already used a fire extinguisher but the fire was not completely out, so firefighters used another extinguisher. Because a thermal imaging camera detected high temperatures in the ceiling, firefighters brought up a fire hose in case the fire had spread to the attic, but they didn’t need to use it, although the attic insulation had started to ignite.
Damage was limited to the ceiling and the floor littered with fire extinguisher material in the bathroom and hallway, as well as some burned insulation.
“The cause does appear to be electrical, but more importantly, thanks to working smoke detectors and early notification, the best possible outcome was accomplished. We would like to thank those bystanders for reporting and helping as well as all of our mutual aid partners for their assistance,” the Fire Department posted on its Facebook and Instagram pages. Units from Concord, Sudbury and Wayland also responded.
News acorns
Calling all cyclists for the Tour de Codman
The Tour de Codman will start at Codman Farm on Sunday, Sept. 10 and will take cyclists on a nearly 12-mile loop through Lincoln along roads and paths, featuring stops at three remote pastures where farm staff and volunteers will give a short talk on the farm’s sustainable, pasture-based agriculture before returning to the farm for coffee, cider and donuts. We welcome all ages but cyclists must be comfortable maintaining a 10-12 mph pace along Lincoln’s roads. The route will spend as much time as possible on bike paths and quiet roads. Any bike in good working order should suffice. Bring your own water and snacks for the route, and don’t forget your helmet (required). The ride leader will have basic tools but riders should plan to be self-sufficient. The total time for the ride, with stops, should be under two hours. Click here for more information and registration.
Two series of trails walks offered
John Calabria will return to lead “Noticing Walks” on Tuesdays from 1–2:30 p.m. Please fill out the online registration form to receive email reminders for the walks or call the Council on Aging and Human Services at 781-259-8811 to receive phone call reminders. Although gently paced, the walks cover rough terrain and have elevation change. Sturdy footwear is encouraged and walking poles are welcome.
- September 26 — Twin Pond Conservation Land. Meet at the Twin Pond parking lot.
- November 7 — Farrar Pond Trails. Meet at the Lincoln canoe landing parking lot (24 South Great Rd.)
- December 5 — Farm Meadow Trails. Meet at the Lincoln Station parking lot.
Another series of trail walks takes place on Tuesdays from 9:30–11:30 a.m. on September 19 and October 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31. Click here to register (use the tabs at the bottom of that page to switch between days).
Fall events at the deCordova
The deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum is offering several fall activities. Click on a program title for more information and ticket purchase.
Peter Mulvey’s Trustees Bike Tour (Sunday, Sept. 10) — Massachusetts musician Peter Mulvey will bring his Trustees Bike Tour to deCordova for a live performance.- Spotlight Tour: Stechet’s “Tall Feather” (Friday, Sept. 15) — Join Associate Curator of Native American Art Tess Lukey for a deep dive on this sculpture. This will be part of an ongoing series designed to give an insider’s take on a favorite sculpture.
- New England Performance Series with Vance Gilbert (Wednesday, Sept. 20) — This Grammy-nominated artist will deliver an evening of unforgettable music and storytelling on.
- Sculptural Flowers: Autumnal Flower Arranging (Saturday, Sept. 23) — Come to a workshop on floral arranging taught by an experienced designer with Derby Farm, a woman-owned farm in Arlington.
- Arts and Ales: Ciderfest (Sunday, Sept. 24) — A tasting of Massachusetts seasonal hard ciders and enjoy some live American Songbook music by Lincoln resident Jim White.
Walden Woods Project offers three events
“Bears of the West: Vital Ground Foundation & Douglas Chadwick”
Wednesday, Sept. 20 from 7–8:15 p.m. (virtual)
Veteran environmental writer Douglas Chadwick will present ideas from his most recent book Four Fifths A Grizzly: A New Perspective on Nature that Just Might Save Us All. He will present examples of successful recoveries of species and habitats, with the thought that “we really can save a whole lot in a hurry.” Doug will be introduced by Kim Davitt from the Vital Ground Foundation, a land trust working to protect and connect wildlife habitat in the West. Click here to register. Donations to the Vital Ground Foundation gladly accepted.
Reading Circle: “The Wellfleet Oysterman”
Wednesday, October 4 from 7–8:15 p.m. (virtual)
Reading Circle participants will read “The Wellfleet Oysterman” from Thoreau’s Cape Cod and come together for discussion with Walden Woods Project Curator of Collections and resident Thoreau Scholar Jeffrey S. Cramer. “The Wellfleet Oysterman” as well as discussion questions will be provided upon registration. “The Wellfleet Oysterman” (as well as the full Cape Cod text) is available to read on this Walden Woods web page.
The Reading Circle is an event in association with the Thoreau’s Cape Cod Readathon, a first-of-its-kind event sponsored by the Barnstable Land Trust, the Walden Woods Project, the town of Concord, and other partners in Concord and on Cape Cod. The Readathon will be held October 7 and 8 at Fuller Farm in Marstons Mills as well as live-streamed. Find out more here.
Lawrence Buell: “Henry David Thoreau: Thinking Disobediently”
Wednesday, Oct. 25 from 6:30–8 p.m. in person
Join us for a reading, presentation, and Q&A with Lincoln’s Lawrence Buell about his forthcoming book Henry David Thoreau: Thinking Disobediently, the first concise account of Thoreau’s life, thought, and impact in more than half a century. Buell is the Powell M. Cabot Professor of American Literature Emeritus at Harvard University and has written and lectured worldwide on Transcendentalism, American studies, and the environmental humanities. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for a wine and cheese reception. The book will be available for purchase at the event (address provided upon registration).
Police log for August 21-27, 2023
August 21
Tower Road (12:37 a.m.) — A resident of Tower Road reported the railroad crossing gates were stuck in the “down” position for approximately 10 minutes without a train passing by. An officer was dispatched and discovered malfunctioning railroad gates at Route 117, Old Sudbury Road, and Tower Road. Keolis was requested to respond to the scene. At 1:25 a.m., Keolis arrived and advised that testing was being done to another section of the track, causing malfunctions to the Lincoln crossings. The gates returned to normal working order at 1:30 a.m.
South Great Road (2:31 p.m.) — A caller reported possible fraudulent activity in their Bank of America account.
August 22
Trapelo Road (12:09 p.m.) — A motorist observed an individual fishing at the Cambridge Reservoir. No one was fishing when police arrived on scene.
Oak Meadow Road (4:08 p.m.) — A caller reported a dog had become aggressive and bit their arm. The caller was transported to the hospital. The Animal Control Officer was notified.
South Great Road (4:14 p.m.) — Multiple callers reported a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Lincoln Road and South Great Road. An officer responded and determined that neither operator was in need of medical attention. Both vehicles were towed from the scene.
Old County Road (4:20 p.m.) — Multiple callers reported a two-vehicle crash on Trapelo Road at the intersection of Old County Road. Lincoln and Waltham police responded. One of the operators was transported to Lahey Hospital and both vehicles were towed from the scene.
Trapelo Road (5:12 p.m.) — A caller requested assistance with a toy that their child could not remove from their leg. The caller notified the police that they were able to free the child a short time later.
Longmeadow Road (9:25 p.m.) — An officer responded to a residence to confirm an accidental 911 call.
August 23
Cambridge Turnpike westbound (2:29 a.m.) — Lincoln police assisted Massachusetts State Police with a disabled motor vehicle on Route 2.
North Great Road (3:43 p.m.) — National Park rangers called for assistance with an individual. Ultimately, the rangers handled the incident.
Windingwood Lane (7:08 p.m.) — Lincoln Police assisted Wayland police in locating an individual who needed medical attention.
August 24
Todd Pond Road (2:28 a.m.) — An officer was called to confirm that an individual returning home was in fact\ a family member who had their flight cancelled.
Old Cambridge Turnpike (5:46 p.m.) — A resident had called the station regarding an issue with cats. They were given contact information for Animal Control.
August 25
Lincoln Road (11:20 a.m.) — An individual was served with court paperwork.
Lincoln Road (1:50 p.m.) — An individual spoke to an officer about a previous and ongoing incident.
Hillside Road (3:19 p.m.) — A caller asked to speak to an officer regarding a possible scam.
August 26
Lincoln School (12:09 a.m.) — An officer spoke to individuals parked at the school complex after hours. They were advised and sent on their way.
Old Sudbury Road (8:45 a.m.) — A motorist reported a dog, believed to be the Codman Community Farms poultry protector, walking along the roadside. The area was checked and it appears as though after a brief recess, the dog went back to work.
South Great Road (10:36 a.m.) — A caller requested assistance with a coyote they had observed frequently during the day. The coyote left prior to the officer’s arrival.
Old Sudbury Road (3:23 p.m.) — A caller reported seeing a malnourished dog on the conservation trails. The Animal Control Officer was notified.
Cambridge Turnpike westbound (3:50 p.m.) — A disable motor vehicle was reported on Route 2 near Bedford Road. The motorist ran out of gas and a family member was en route.
Codman Community Farms (7:44 p.m.) — The Codman Farm dog was reportedly out for a nature walk. The farmer was notified.
Sandy Pond Road (9:08 p.m.) — A noise complaint was reported for the deCordova Museum, where a wedding was taking place and an outdoor band was performing. The caller was told that the band was allowed to continue for another 45 minutes.
August 27
Wells Road, Lincoln (3:46 a.m.) — A resident was on their way home and ran out of gas in Wayland. A Lincoln officer transported the party to their residence, where they coordinated refueling the vehicle and getting it home.
Donelan’s Supermarket (3:34 a.m.) — A caller was having difficulty with their ride-share application. The caller was transported to their residence.
Cambridge Turnpike (6:59 p.m.) — An officer checked on a possible disabled motor vehicle in the lot of Tracey’s Gas. The vehicle had stopped there briefly and was on their way a short time later.
August 28
Codman Road (7:03 a.m.) — A caller reported a deceased coyote near the sidewalk. The DPW was notified.
Virginia Road (4:17 p.m.) — A bicycle crash not involving a vehicle was reported on Virginia Road in Concord. The Concord Police and Fire Departments handled the incident.
Ent Road, Hanscom AFB (4:39 p.m.) — Court paperwork was served to an individual on Hanscom Air Force Base.
Old Cambridge Turnpike (8:26 p.m.) —A caller was given information for Animal Control.
My Turn: Shop at the Old Town Hall Exchange
Editor’s note: for more information, see “Old Town Hall Exchange is back in business” (Lincoln Squirrel, Feb. 21, 2023).
By Stacy Osur
Lincoln’s Old Town Hall Exchange will reopen this coming Wednesday after our annual summer break. Yes, our candy will be restocked and can’t wait to see our shortest customers back in the shop.
This Lincoln institution that was founded in 1963, supports both consignors and the lovely old building that it is housed in, Lincoln’s Old Town Hall. The building was rescued in 1962 from being taken away (yes, away!) by Henry Ford through a gallant group of neighbors that banded together and raised the funds to purchase the building and land from Sumner Smith (who had previously offered it to the town, but was rebuffed). The U.S. Post Office remains a tenant at will and we hope they remain as long as they wish.
Please volunteer with us, make a donation and visit soon! We’re open Tuesday through Friday from noon–4 p.m. through September (hours to be expanded later).
“My Turn” is a forum for readers to offer their letters to the editor or 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.