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Latest News

Wayland Nonprofit Is Saving Stray Dogs, Cats With ‘Simple Concept’. After Wayland veterinarian Amy Shroff sold her successful Waltham practice about a decade ago, she wanted to commit herself to helping stray animals. Shroff knew from her own experience — her father is from India — that nations across Asia struggle with stray cats and dogs, which are often subject to abuse and extermination because they carry diseases like rabies. The animals also often get maimed or killed by cars, or suffer from diseases like distemper — rare in America. First, she tried working on adopting the animals, jetting them across the globe to new owners in the U.S. Click here for their website, and donate online here.

Wayland Community Pool launches fundraising program. The Wayland Community Pool is Making Waves and needs your help! The time is now, WCP has launched Making Waves: The Campaign for the Wayland Community Pool with a goal of raising $1.3 M from individuals, foundations and public funding. Our goal is to reimagine and revitalize the interior spaces of the privately funded Wayland Community Pool. And we need YOU! Funds will address critical infrastructure needs and ensure long term sustainability of the pool and its programs. From competitive swim teams, to aquasize fitness, to daily lap swimmers & lessons, to community programs & camps, the WCP is the home to many. Join our initiative to make our pool a top notch facility and ensure the future of this long standing institution. Every drop counts! Show your support and Make Some Waves by donating online here: https://givebutter.com/wcpmakingwaves

Save the Date: The Wayland Community Pool Gala, March 23, 7-11pm at Sandy Burr Country Club. Evening will include cocktails & food, silent and live auctions, entertainment and more. Interested in being a sponsor or donating an auction item? Contact Cathy Shapley at cathy@wcpswim.org 

Robotic Team: Vinsanity 10102A seeks donations to US OPEN Robotics and VEX Worldwide Championship Tournaments.

On December 17, the Vinsanity Robotic Team 10102A competed with over 50 local teams, won first place in the final, and will attend the March 2024 CREATE US Open Robotics Tournament in Iowa. Recently, the team again earned first place at Gateway to the West, a signature tournament in West Virginia, earning them a spot in the largest robotic competition in the world, the VEX World Championship in Texas, on April 28-30! Both tournaments gather young minds from around the globe to showcase interest in programming, design, creativity, and technical skills with small robots in game-based engineering. The team has worked hard and is excited to showcase their efforts at the US Open and the VEX World Championship. However, they need financial support, and are looking to raise money to help defer the cost of these trips. Funding will help with travel expenses, uniforms, and future outreach events for our local schools and libraries. Donate online here: https://gofund.me/7b6927de

Wayland Community Fund serving Wayland residents temporarily in need of financial assistance. Please call us if you need help!

The Wayland Community Fund (WCF) provides short-term emergency financial assistance to Wayland residents who have lived in Wayland for at least one year. WCF provides funding for basic needs such as utilities, rent, food, medical bills, and other living expenses. Please call us if you need help with your bills, 508-358-3624 or go to the town website for an application.

Miniature Life – Dollhouse Open House, March 17 and 23. Wayland Historical Society, 12 Cochituate Rd

• * Sunday, March 17, 1-3pm
• * Saturday, March 23,10am-12pm

Come and enjoy a variety of dollhouses from the early 1900s to Barbie’s 2015 Dream House. In many ways, dollhouses embody – in miniature- the lives and the aspirations of their owners. For generations, dollhouses have facilitated imaginative play and have helped children develop life skills and make sense of the world. Visitors will be delighted with the artistry, history and size of the dollhouses on display. Visitors will also have an opportunity to make miniature crafts and share dollhouse memories. Admission free/ donations welcomed

Household Hazardous Waste Day is back again in Wayland! The Wayland Board of Health is excited to announce that we will be holding Household Hazardous Waste collection day in Wayland on March 23, 2024. Pre-registration for the event will open on March 4. Please note you will not be able to register before March 4th . More information will be provided in a press release and on the Health Department website: https://www.wayland.ma.us/health-department once we get closer to the pre-registration date. The collection location will be at the DPW Garage at 66 River Road, Wayland. Registration online here

Transform your lawn to save our ecosystem! March 21 at 7pm. Turf grass lawn covers more of the U.S. than any other irrigated crop. Lawns are resource-heavy, requiring mowing, irrigation, fertilizer, and pesticides to thrive.

Learn why you should transition your lawn using beautiful and environmentally friendly plants. Incorporating native plants in lawns and gardens helps to mitigate floods, heat waves, sea-level rise, and the mass extinction of species. Is it time to “kill your lawn?”

Webinar Speaker: Mark Richardson, Director of Horticulture, New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill. Mark has a passion for ecological horticulture and native plants. He has previously held leadership roles at The New England Wildflower Society and Longwood Gardens. Mark earned a B.S. in Urban Horticulture (URI) and an M.S. in Public Horticulture ( U. of Delaware). New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill sits on 200 acres. The Garden cares for an irreplaceable collection of plants. Sustainability and environmental stewardship are at the forefront of its work.

Register for this webinar at: metrowestclimatesolutions.org

What is Senior Circuit Breaker? IOn Wed., March 13 at 10:30am in the Council on Aging, Brian Lynch from the Mass. Dept. of Revenue will explain everything you want to know about the senior tax relief program mysteriously known as Circuit Breaker. If you’re 65 or older, you may be eligible to claim a refundable credit on your state personal income tax return. A staff person from the Wayland Assessors Office will also join us. Come find out more!

Armchair Travel: Artists’ Landscapes. On Tuesday, March 19 at 1pm on Zoom, join us for Armchair Travel, and a virtual trip around the world from the artist’s perspective. Our guest host this month is Margaret Dergalis, an inspiring educator with a wealth of knowledge about the world’s great art. She will take you to locations that have inspired some of the most renowned artists and works. Contact the COA at 508-358-2990 or coa@wayland.ma.us to register and receive the Zoom link.

Songs and Stories of Ireland. Join us on March 12 at 1pm in the Council on Aging when the incomparable Michael Goodwin presents Songs and Stories of Ireland and the Irish. This classically-trained tenor blends showmanship with artistry, and adds lecture and video clips to provide context and stories about the music and musicians. We’ll serve a little taste of Ireland. Free of charge, but registration is required: 508-358-2990 or coa@wayland.ma.us.

Arts Wayland presents: The March Online Exhibit.  Take some time to view the spectacular collection of art in our online March exhibit. The genres range in style, and the talent on display is second to none. This exhibit will be available for viewing online through March 31st. You can see the exhibit online here

The latest from the Wayland Library (full newsletter online here).

Note: Many events require registration. Please visit the Wayland Library calendar for registration links.

Adult Services

• *
  Virtual Author Talk: Christopher Paolini and Murtagh. The master storyteller and internationally bestselling will discuss his return to the world of Eragon with Murtagh, a stunning continuation of the epic fantasy. Register. Thursday, March 14 at 4 p.m.
• *
  Irish Music in America. From traditional ballads and folk songs, to pop ditties and movie themes, scholar and teacher John Clark surveys the breadth of Irish American music and tells the stories behind the tunes. This festive program features recordings by John McCormack, Bing Crosby, the Clancy Brothers, and more. Register. Monday, March 18 at 7 p.m.
• *
  Author Talk: Eric B. Schultz and King Philip’s War. It began in 1675 as an Indian raid on several farms, but quickly escalated into a full-scale war engulfing all of southern New England. At once an in-depth history of this pivotal war and a guide to the historical sites where the ambushes, raids, and battles took place, King Philip’s War expands our understanding of American history. The author of four books, Schultz is a Director Emeritus and former Chairman of the New England Historic Genealogical Society/American Ancestors. Register. Wednesday, March 20 at 7 p.m.
• *
  Virtual Author Talk: Madeline Miller. In what promises to be a fascinating, exploratory conversation, the bestselling author of Circe and The Song of Achilles will discuss her body of work and the process of transforming Greek classics into modern epics in fiction. Register. Tuesday, March 21 at 7 p.m.
• *
  Welcome our new Assistant Children’s Librarian, Abby McBride. Abby has extensive experience working with children, families, children’s books, and art. She has a Masters of Education/Art from Lesley University, as well as a Masters of Education Curriculum Development from Caldwell University. In addition, she is certified to teach Elementary Education, and Visual Art (Pre-K to 8).  Abby was Manager of Family Programs at the MFA. She will be a great addition to our staff, starting Monday, March 11. 
• *
  A24 Films Now on Hoopla. A24 is one of the most adventurous film producers and distributors in the world. Now a rich selection of their innovative, award-winning movies comes to Hoopla, including such titles as Past Lives, The Whale, Everything Everywhere All at Once, Aftersun, Minari, Zola, and The Humans. Always available, always free with your library card. Just install the app on your device, or create an account at hoopladigital.com.
  

Book Groups

• *
  Dystopian/Sci-Fi. Too Like the Lightning by Ada Palmer. Online only. Contact ekatz@minlib.net for the Zoom link and more information. Thursday, March 14 at 7 p.m.
• *
  Cookbook Club. Cook As You Are by Ruby Tandoh. Contact dwinn@minlib.net for details. Thursday, March 21 at 5:30 p.m.

For Babies, Toddlers and Preschoolers:

• *
  Music, Story, Fun! with Ms. Janet. Join Ms. Janet for a musical storytime. She’ll bring her ukulele, rainbow bells, and puppets! We will meet in the Children’s Room. For ages birth through age 4, with caregivers. Please register. Thursdays,  March 14, March 21, and March 28 at 10:30 a.m.
• *
  Baby & Toddler Storytime. This storytime encourages early literacy and caregiver-child interactions with lively songs and rhymes, bounces, books, and body-awareness. Best for babies and toddlers, with caregiver. Please register. Tuesdays, March 12, March 19, and March 26 at 10:30 a.m.
• *
  Baby Signing. Learn how to reduce frustration and help give your baby the ability to communicate before he/she can speak. Benefits of Baby Sign Language: Reduces frustration for everyone, gives babies the ability to express themselves before they can speak, accelerates babies’ speech development, enhances early literacy skills, deepens bonding. Workshop led by Sheryl White of Baby Kneads. Registration required. Please register HERE. Wednesday, March 13, at 10:30 a.m.
• *
  Yoga with Little Beats. Join Little Beats for 30 minutes of yoga-inspired movement. For ages 1-5, with caregiver. Please register HERE. Friday, March 15, at 10:30 a.m.
• *
  Chinese Storytime. Children will listen to stories and rhymes, and sing songs in Mandarin and in English. We will also make Dragon Puppets in celebration of the Year of the Dragon. Led by Isabelle Ren, director of Wonderwhiz Academy. For ages 2 to 5, with caregivers. Please register HERE. Saturday, March 23, at 10:30 a.m.

For Elementary School:

• *
  Irish Dance for Kids. Dance with the Irish! Ms.Salome will lead and Irish Dance class for kids. For ages 5 and up. Please register HERE. Saturday, March 9, at 2:00 p.m.
• *
  Purim Stories, Songs, & a Craft. The Jewish holiday of Purim is celebrated by dressing in costumes, hearing stories read aloud and making noise! Join us to learn about this joyous holiday with songs, stories and a craft. Led by Rabbi Josh Breindel and Cantor Vera Broekhuysen from Congregation Beth El, Sudbury. Please register HERE. Monday, March 11, at 3:00 p.m. For ages 4 and up, with caregivers. Festive costumes encouraged.
• *
  Build it! Spaceships. Have you ever imagined going into space? Would you like to visit the moon or another planet? As Earthlings, we need special, powerful ships to leave the planet. What would your spaceship look like? Join Ms. Stephanie to design and build spaceships using cardboard and recyclables. Please register HERE. Wednesday, March 13, at 3:00 p.m. For ages 4 and up, with caregiver.
• *
  Kids Chess Club. Children will learn chess and get tips to improve their game. This is a beginner’s club for children with little to no chess experience. Wayland High School students Andrew Fang and Michael Eberle will lead the club. For children ages 7 and up. Please register HERE. Saturday, March 16, at 2:00 p.m.
• *
  Maker Wednesday! Make a Mobile. Have you ever wondered about the person who invented the mobile? Have you ever wanted to make one yourself? Join Ms. Wendy to learn about the work of sculptor Alexander Calder and then design and make a mobile using craft materials. For children ages 5 and up. Please register HERE. Wednesday, March 20, at 2:30 p.m.
• *
  Beginning Ballet Class for Kids. Come dance with us! Wayland High School student Eyssa Grillo will teach beginning ballet. Wear comfortable clothes. Registration required. Please register HERE. Saturday, March 23, at 2:00 p.m. For ages 4 to 6, with caregiver.
• *
  4th/5th Grade Book Club. This book discussion group is for 4th and 5th graders. We will be discussing Shark Teeth by Sherri Winston. We will meet in the Teen Loft. Questions or to get a copy of the book, contact Pam McCuen at pmccuen@minlib.net. Please register HERE. Wednesday, March 27, at 7:00 p.m.
• *
  What is a Solar Eclipse? Join real scientists to learn about the total solar eclipse happening in our part of the world on April 8, 2024. Children will see what causes an eclipse and perform hands-on activities about the Sun and the Moon as we prepare for the eclipse. Workshop led by Dr. Lisa Bless and Dr. Sandra Pearl from SEED. For ages 5 and up. Registration is required. Please register HERE. Wednesday, March 27, at 4:00 p.m.
• *
  Pokémon Card Trading Day. Kids are invited to a Pokémon card trading day at the library. Come with cards you are willing to trade! For ages 7 to 11. Please register HERE. Thursday, March 28, at 4:00 p.m.

For Teens:

• *
  Magic the Gathering for Teens. Teens! Play Magic the Gathering with your friends! Bring your own Magic Cards or use ours. Experienced players and newbies welcome. For teens in grades 6 and up. Please register HERE. Friday, March 22, at 4:30 p.m.
• *
  Teen Crafternoon: Dragon Eye. Teens! Sculpt a Dragon Eye that’s fierce or friendly using a glass eye, air dry clay and metallic paint. If time allows we’ll also make a Dragon Egg. This program will be presented by Pop Up Art School. Registration required. Please register HERE. Thursday, March 28 at 4 p.m. For teens ages 12 and up. We will meet in the Teen Loft.

First Parish in Wayland: “Celebrating Our Gifts”. On Sunday, March 17 at 10 a.m., join us for a service exploring the gifts of community. In today’s world, community can take many forms but is always created and sustained by people who dedicate their time, talent, and treasures to its well-being. First Parish in Wayland has been blessed by thousands of such people over its 383 years as a congregation. Today, we come together to celebrate each of you and your contributions to sustaining and continually re-creating this community. Whether your family has been coming for generations or this is your first Sunday with us, each and every person is valued and vital to who we are. Come this morning ready to shake off the winter blues and celebrate! Complete listing online here. Photo by John Cameron on Unsplash

WaylandCAN announces new date for “How to Talk to Your Kids about Discrimination”. 

WaylandCAN’s Middle and High School parent workshop has a new date and location – Tuesday, March 19, 7-8:30pm at the Town Building. “How to Talk to your Kids about Discrimination,” will be led by equity and inclusion consultants, The Manso Brown Group. Sign up for this free skill-building workshop, made possible by the support of our outstanding sponsors, Wayland PTO, Wayland Dads, and Friends of Wayland Youth and Family Services.

Some topics that will be addressed include:

• * What to do if your child is the target of discrimination?
• * What to do if your child is the aggressor?
• * What to do if your child is a bystander and how to encourage them to speak up?
• * How to have reciprocal conversations with your teen?
• * How to navigate what they see on social media?

Sign up here (even if you signed up previously – please sign up again): https://forms.gle/mQKapy3ehKWH7wwe6

Event flyer online here: (click here for full sized version)

Golden Tones Chorus – live, in person! It’s a music-making opportunity for MetroWest people of retirement age with NO AUDITIONS and a come-when-you-can attendance policy. Join us for daytime rehearsals on Tuesdays, 11am-12:30pm. Choir experience and music-reading are NOT required to have fun singing, dancing, and creating live concerts for the MetroWest community! Visit goldentones.org, email office@goldentones.org, or call us at 508-318-6318.

Wayland offers subsidized tick testing as tick season nears. Wayland Offers Subsidized Tick Testing As Tick Season Nears. You’d typically want to get rid of a tick as soon as possible. But Wayland residents have a reason to save the gross little parasites under a new town program. Wayland has received a state grant to subsidize tick testing for any resident who wants it. The tests let you know if the tick you just removed from yourself or your dog is carrying diseases like Lyme, the rare Rocky Mountain spotted fever or babesiosis. Complete details online here.

Wayland resident launches “Meet Your Neighbors” video series. 

Wayland resident Ashley Fuller has launched a series of “Meet Your Neighbors” videos to highlight the phenomenal stories of people and businesses that reside in Wayland.

Episodes released so far:

• *
  Gastaldo Waste and Recycle ,  
• *
  Wayland School of Music and 
• * the Wayland Town Clerk

with more episodes to come

Celebration International Church Food Pantry serving the community for over 25 years Celebration International Church in Wayland partners with the Boston Food Bank to serve the people of Metrowest by providing groceries in a time of need. If you or someone you know is enduring unemployment, financial hardship, a disability, or something similar, we would like to help! Visit https://www.cicalive.org/food-pantry for more information.

Town of Wayland Encourages Residents to Enroll in New CodeRED Emergency Alert System. The Town of Wayland encourages residents, employees and businesses to sign up for CodeRED, the Town’s new emergency alert system. The CodeRed Emergency Alert System is a free community notification system available in Wayland that sends alerts concerning time-sensitive and emergency information that may impact the area.

Emergency alert notifications may include missing children or missing persons, criminal activity, fires, drinking water contamination, utility outages, various threats to people or the environment and other incidents as deemed necessary by Town public safety officials. Those enrolled also may receive timely non-emergency alerts, including road closures, snow plow schedules and more. The alerts are sent to residents via phone call, text message, email and social media. 

All community members are invited to register for the CodeRED notification system to receive important alerts and updates. To sign up for these informative, lifesaving alerts, please click here. Registration is customizable, allowing users to choose which alerts they’d like to receive, as well as preferred ways like text, email, cellphone, landline and more.

Community members are encouraged to download the CodeRED Mobile Alert app available in the App Store or Google Play after they sign up to receive alerts.