Disclosure: Waylandenews Executive Director Kim Reichelt is a member of the Wayland School Committee. Her work on this site, however, is as an individual, not as a member of the School Committee.
Non-Profit Spotlight: Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable
Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization of men and women incorporated in 1999. The goal of the Roundtable is to raise awareness about the issue of domestic violence through community education and networking and to improve the coordination between public and private services for victims and families touched by domestic violence.
Protecting yourself from mosquito bites and preventing mosquito breeding in your yard
Warm weather and periodic rain is expected through the next couple of weeks (or longer) and there will continue to be increased mosquito breeding and activity in the area. Based on current information provided by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH), at this time Wayland is considered to be at a low risk for mosquito-borne illness. However, last year was a very active year with mosquito-borne illness, Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus, in areas of Massachusetts including Middlesex County. We should be prepared to protect ourselves from mosquitoes and follow news alerts regarding mosquito-borne illness. The Health Department will continue to monitor the situation in Wayland and any new data we receive from MDPH. *Please check your yard for items that can collect water and harbor mosquito breeding. As outlined further below in this memo we have provided recommendations for avoiding mosquito bites (which can lead to mosquito-borne illness) and how to prevent your yard from becoming a mosquito breeding area.
Catch basins have been treated for mosquitoes
The catch basins in town have been treated with Altosid XR Ingot Slim Briquets, slow release larvicide control lasting up to 150 days. This product has (S) methoprene which interrupts normal development of mosquito larvae. The product is supplied by the Wayland Board of Health and distributed by the East Middlesex Mosquito Control Project. This treatment is done every year to control mosquito larvae to reduce mosquito-borne illness. Altosid is a larvicide in a briquet form that disrupts the normal growth pattern of immature mosquitoes in water and prevents them from becoming breeding, biting adults. This product is a long-term (up to 150 days), cost-effective and environmentally responsible mosquito control larvicide.
The treated catch basins have been marked with a white dot. The Town of Wayland contracts the services of the East Middlesex Mosquito Control Project for mosquito control including helicopter spraying using BTI larvicide in the spring and catch basin treatments in the early summer. Our program during mosquito season also includes mosquito trapping, identifying populations and surveillance for diseases and species. To review the state’s plan for 2020 see below link to MDPH Arbovirus Surveillance plan.
Mosquito habitats and mosquito-borne illness
The “Culex” mosquito species is common in suburban communities such as Wayland. This mosquito species prefers to breed/lay eggs in small artificial containers such as birdbaths, old tires, buckets, clogged gutters, and other standing water sources which can be found in people’s backyards and other similar areas of the suburbs (including catch basins).
Culex mosquitoes are the primary vectors of West Nile Virus. West Nile Virus (WNV) is a mosquito-carried virus that can cause illness in people ranging from a mild fever to more serious disease like encephalitis or meningitis. WNV is most commonly spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. The Culex species are also known as “bridge” vectors that will feed on birds and people. As the summer continues to progress, birds could be infected with West Nile Virus and the virus could be transmitted to a human when a mosquito bites a bird carrying the WNV virus and then subsequently bites a person.
The catch basin treatments using Altosid Briquets will reduce the population of Culex mosquito larvae (and other species of mosquito larvae) that could be growing in catch basins (standing water environment), decreasing the risk of West Nile Virus infection and potentially other mosquito-borne diseases in humans (i.e. newly emerging species and diseases).
To prevent a yard from becoming a source for Culex mosquitoes and potentially invasive mosquito species, homeowners should make a thorough inspection of their property and remove, empty, cover or treat water-holding containers. During the summer, mosquito larvae can complete their development in water within a week.
Although Wayland is not known for habitat areas where mosquito species that can carry the EEE virus (Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus) would be breeding, our town borders are adjacent to breeding areas in other towns as well as potential transmission with other mosquito species and birds that can carry the disease. Based on the very active year in 2019 for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) virus being found in mosquitoes, we will be monitoring things closely this year as trends of EEE disease in mosquitoes typically follow a 2-3 year cycle of increased activity of disease.
What to do in your yard to prevent mosquito breeding, West Nile Virus (WNV) and other Arboviral Diseases:
Mosquito proof your home and drain standing water in your yard
Containers where mosquitoes commonly lay eggs include neglected swimming pools, water in loose-fitting pool covers or tarps, unscreened rain barrels, rimless tires, and plastic toys, flower pots, trash barrels/containers. Check rain gutters, including all fittings and drains.
Tires should be disposed of properly or stored inside.
Rubbish barrels, wheelbarrows and small boats should be covered or stored upside down.
The water in wading pools and birdbaths should be changed weekly.
Infrequently used pools should be covered or properly maintained.
Some mosquitoes like to come indoors. Keep them outside by having tightly-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors. Fix any holes in screens and screen doors and replace worn weather stripping.
Keep the grass in your yard cut short and shrubs trimmed.
Once a week empty and scrub, turn over, cover or throw out any items that hold water.
Rainwater or rain/collection barrels tips:
Always use a mosquito-proof screen to seal and cover the rain barrel or other water-saving container. Mosquito-proof screen is a very fine mesh, usually 1/16 of an inch. If the barrel is covered, this will reduce the likelihood of mosquitoes becoming a problem.
If the barrel is holding a lot of water consider mosquitofish, or consider treating with products containing Bti (always read the product label and use according to the instructions).
Keep the rain barrel lid and connectors sealed to help keep bugs out.
Be sure to always remove the water that pools at the top of the barrel at least once or twice a week.
If possible, place your barrel on a surface that will soak up any water that overflows so it doesn’t pool and create a mosquito habitat.
Regularly inspect your rain barrel system. Check for cracks or leaks. Be sure that all fittings and seals are intact and that no water accumulates on the ground around the barrel.
Clean the barrel on a regular basis. Drain it completely and clean it out at least twice a year.
What you should do to avoid mosquito bites
At this time of year mosquito populations are on the rise and residents should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Be aware of peak mosquito hours:
The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are more active in damp, shady areas, during cloudy humid days, and at night. Take extra care to use repellent and protective clothing, and/or avoid these areas and times of day where mosquitoes are more prevalent.
There are some emerging mosquito species that are out and active during the day. Be sure to protect yourself and family members during the day also.
Wear protective clothing:
Clothing can help reduce mosquito bites. Although it may be difficult to do when it’s hot, wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
Cover up the arms and legs of children playing outdoors. Baby carriages and playpens should be covered with mosquito netting.
Apply insect repellent when you go outdoors.
Use a repellent with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), IR3535 (3-[N-butyl-N-acetyl]-aminopropionic acid) or oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-menthane 3, 8-diol (PMD)].
DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentration of 30% or less on older children.
The Center for Disease Control has recently listed Oil of lemon eucalyptus as providing protection against mosquitoes, however, it should not be used on children under three years of age.
Permethrin products can be effective but are intended for use on items such as clothing, shoes, bed nets and camping gear and should not be applied to the skin.
Protect pets and horses from mosquito bites.
Always follow the instructions on the label of any repellent. More information on choosing and using repellents safely is listed below.
For further information on WNV or EEE, log unto the Massachusetts Department of Public Health web site at:
The National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC) toll free at 1-800-858-7378 or online at http://npic.orst.edu/index.html. If you can’t go online contact MDPH at (617)983-6800 for a hard copy of the fact sheet.
A sense of fun and normalcy returns with the ninth annual Community Outdoor Concert Series sponsored by the Wayland Council on Aging. The concert will be held at the Wayland Town Building. It is by RESERVATION only. Concerts will be structured differently this year to adhere to state and Wayland Health Dept. safety guidelines for COVID-19. Attendance will be very limited. Outdoor concerts are allowed under Phase 3 of the governor’s reopening plan.
There are three ways to enjoy “THE STANDARDS” concert:
Listen from your car in one of our reserved parking spaces (the band will be closer to the parking lot than in years past)
Bring a chair or blanket for your pre-marked, socially-distanced spot on the lawn
Watch WayCam’s live stream on Verizon channel 37 or Comcast channel 8
Reservations are required; walk-ins cannot be accommodated. The Town Building remains closed, so there will be no rest rooms available. Seating cannot be provided; if you reserve a lawn spot, please bring your own chairs or blankets. The concert will be cancelled if inclement weather or if the governor delays the opening of Phase 3.
To reserve a spot, email the COA at coa@wayland.ma.us, or call 508-358-2990. Please specify drive-in or lawn seating, and the names and number that are in your party. Hope to see you there.
Wayland High School’s Red Cross Club is giving back to the community with a blood drive! This event will take place on July 27th, 2020, at the Trinitarian Congregational Church in Wayland from 2-7 pm.
For more information or to make an appointment to donate, call 1(800)-733-2767 or sign up online at redcrossblood.org.
Blood is routinely transfused to patients with cancer and other diseases, premature babies, organ transplant recipients, and trauma victims. Donations are particularly crucial during this time, due to the Covid-19 pandemic. We urge eligible donors to join us in the selfless act of giving blood.
Donors of all blood types are needed, especially those with types O negative, B negative and A negative.
Below is a joint statement from the Wayland Town Administrator, Chief of Police, Police Lieutenant, and Executive Board members of the Wayland Police Officers Union regarding Wayland Police and an invitation to the community to discuss racism and police interaction. It is also available as a PDF online here
“I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.” Dr. King’s “I have a dream” speech challenged American society to look beyond superficial distinctions. His dream was a dream that every person shares. To be judged not on preconceived, ill-informed notions, but rather on who they really are, what they stand for and what they have actually accomplished. It is a dream where all are free to move wherever they wish in society and accomplish to the best of their ability as they desire. If we are ever to get closer to seeing the true character of each person, we must stop placing barriers between ourselves and others. Only when we eliminate these barriers and we look at a man, a woman, or a child, and see each as a fellow human being will we have achieved true freedom and integration of all equally into our society.
In the wake of George Floyd’s killing and the ensuing protests against racial discrimination and incidents of police violence, we wish to reiterate Wayland’s core values and engage in a community discussion of these important issues.
Wayland has been ahead of other communities both in its understanding and reaction to racial discrimination and to unacceptable work or work-related behavior. Wayland has a clearly stated policy of the behavior expected of Town officials and employees. “It is the policy of the Town of Wayland that associated Boards, Committees, governing bodies and employees conduct their work and work-related activities with respect for all employees, residents and individuals conducting business with the Town. Any action, inaction, gesture, or language that would offend a reasonable individual or that a reasonable individual would deem unwelcome will not be tolerated. Harassment or discrimination under any circumstances is prohibited.” The Wayland Police Department has added its own statement of core values, among them:
Integrity – We are committed to the enforcement of laws and the preservation of order and property. We are honest, truthful, and consistent in our words and actions, and therefore worthy of the public’s trust. We exercise discretion in a manner that is beyond reproach. We do not accept gifts or special considerations as a consequence of our office.
Professionalism – We treat the public and our colleagues with courtesy and respect. We understand that our appearance, words, and demeanor contribute to the public’s confidence in us. We are responsive to the community and deliver services promptly and efficiently.
Fairness and Impartiality – We act with fairness, restraint, and impartiality in carrying out our duties. We work with the community to continually understand and overcome cultural influences and unconscious biases. We understand that our actions, combined with the way we treat members of the community, contribute to our legitimacy in the eyes of the public.
Advocacy and Empathy – We have compassion for victims of crime. As members of the community, we have respect for and promote the diversity of the community. We advocate for social and other supportive services for victims, youth, and others involved in the criminal justice system.
The Wayland Police Department, your police department, is a true community department, made up of 24 men and women, almost half of whom are your neighbors or family of neighbors. The officers who live in Wayland have children in the public schools. Those who grew up here graduated from Wayland High School. They are part of the fabric that makes up the Wayland community. They have chosen a police career to give back to their community.
We would like to share with you that the proposals surrounding accreditation, education and training, which are being discussed in Massachusetts and elsewhere, have already been addressed in Wayland. Earlier this year the Wayland Police Department attained re-certification from the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission, based on Wayland’s established professional standards, which are
considered best practices for the profession.
Last winter, we entered negotiations for a new contract, under the guidance and with the support of the Board of Selectmen. During negotiations, we spent time reviewing police officer education and training. The police officers who make up your Police Department here in Wayland are highly educated. We discussed the changing needs of the community and the changing expertise needed from police. We discussed how to recruit the most qualified officers for a modern police department and how to encourage officers to continue with their education in much needed areas. Rather than limit police officers to the traditional education in criminal justice and related fields, we placed value on degrees such as emergency management, finance, computer science, and psychology. Police officers today are expected to respond to more complex and more diverse issues. Wayland has supported and continues to support well-educated and well-trained police officers.
The commitment to public service of every police officer and the range of issues that they address was no more evident than during the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency. To provide sufficient police coverage for the community and maintain safe working conditions, all officers agreed to a schedule change and detectives were reassigned to patrol. Police officers performed such tasks as delivering meals and prescription medication to the most vulnerable residents. They also responded to an increased number of domestic and mental health crises. We have heard recent suggestions that police should not be responding to such calls. We support additional and continuing resources and services to help residents experiencing domestic and mental health challenges. However, when distressed residents call 911, they are in a state of emergency. Police are first responders. They are trained and able to respond promptly and to assess and address the immediate issues. Delays in responding to these types of calls could have serious consequences.
We are hopeful that, here in Wayland, we will continue to work together as a community and value the hard work and dedication of each and every officer as they continue to provide the highest level of service. Their dedication to the community will not waiver. We plan to host further discussions on these important issues. Together, we hope to continue the work of achieving true freedom and integration of all.
Louise Miller, Town Administrator
Mark Wilkins, President, Wayland Police Officers Union
Patrick Swanick, Police Chief
Mark Hebert, Vice President, WPOU
Sean Gibbons, Police Lieutenant
Tyler Castagno, Secretary and Treasurer, WPOU
Reopening, Step 2: Bring ‘Em Back Alive. Starting July 6, you can rid yourself of those stacks of library materials that have been hanging around all spring. Just put them in the black hamper next to the parking lot door (the book drops will remain sealed). In addition, we’re expanding curbside pickup and phone reference to the entire day until 5:00. We still can’t open to the public or take donations, but we will be able to get materials from other libraries. The journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step–or two.
What, to the Slave, is Your 4th of July? A Virtual Community Reading Event. Following the model of the Mass Humanities Program, we will take turns reading aloud—via Zoom–Frederick Douglass’ powerful 1852 speech to the Rochester Ladies’ Anti-Slavery Society and share some time for optional discussion and reflection. If you would like to be a reader, please contact Courtney Michael at cmichael@minlib.net.To simply attend, register on our website under Events. You’ll receive the Zoom link via email on Thursday, July 2. The reading begins that day at 7:00 p.m.
The Older Driver: Smart Features and Safety Strategies. Presented by Mark Schieldrop of AAA, this talk is for seniors and those who love them. Mark will highlight new car features, designed for safety, ergonomics, and comfort, that can help you remain mobile and safe on the roads. You will also learn safe driving strategies to compensate for the vision, cognitive, and physical changes that come with aging. Contact cmichael@minlib.net for the Zoom link via email. Wednesday, July 8 at 7:30 p.m.
Evening Book Group. This month, it’s reader’s choice. Share what you’re reading, watching, and listening to, and would recommend to the group. Podcasts, audiobooks, TV shows, movies, and book suggestions are all welcome! Contact btuttle@minlib.net for an emailed Zoom invitation. Monday, July 6 at 7:00 p.m.
Noon Book Group. The book for this month is Bloomland by John Englehardt, available on Hoopla. Please join us. Contact amoore@minlib.net for a Zoom invitation. Friday, July 10.
Read Against Racism. In light of the protests following the death of George Floyd, the staff at the Wayland Free Public Library encourages those who want to learn more about the racial climate in the US and how we got here to explore the resources on our Read Against Racism page. You can find it through the Library Spotlight feature on our home page. We will continue to add to and update these resources. Please check back often.
Wowbrary for Browsing. One of the pleasures that library users are missing most acutely right now is that of wandering through the collection, panning for library gold. Until we can offer that experience again, we have Wowbrary, a weekly email that lists all the hot new items that we’ve added to our collection. It’s insider info that’ll let you get a top spot on the waiting list, with every entry linked to our catalog. To sign up, just go to our home page and scroll down till you see the Wowbrary logo. It’s easy, free, and almost like being back in the stacks.
YOUTH SERVICES
FOR BABIES , TODDLERS AND PRESCHOOLERS
Weekly Facebook Live Storytimes. Join Ms. Carly for a Facebook Live storytime on the Wayland Public Library’s facebook page. Children and their caregivers will listen to stories, sing songs, and perform fun rhymes and movements. Tuesdays, July 7, 14, 21 and 28 at 10:30 a.m.
Weekly Sing-alongs posted on Facebook. Check out our Facebook page or Youtube channel for prerecorded sing-alongs created by Ms. Laura, Ms. Janet, and others on our Youth Services team. Check out our Facebook page or our youtube page on Fridays, July 12, 19, 26 and 31 to see the new posts. (Or anytime to see what has already been posted.)
Storyvine moves to Zoom. Join Ms. Pam for stories, fingerplays, puppets, and songs. Contact Pam at pmccuen@minlib.net in advance if you and your child would like to get on the Zoom invite list. For caregivers and children ages 2 to 5. Thursdays, July 9, 16, 23 and 30 at 10:30 a.m.
Kids Yoga moves to FaceBook! Sonia Gomez from Serfi Yoga will give a yoga class for children, toddles to age 5. Her class will stream on the Wayland Facebook page on Thursday, July 9, at 1:30 p.m.
FOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Weekly Craft programs posted on Facebook. Children’s Librarian Elise Katz will demonstrate easy crafts you can do at home with your children. These short videos will be posted on the Wayland Facebook page on Wednesdays, July 8, 15, 22 and 29 at 3 p.m.
4th/5th Grade Book Group on Zoom. Will be discussing A Mango-Shaped Space by Wendy Mass. Please contact Pam at pmccuen@minlib.net if you would like to join the Zoom group. Tuesday, July 7, at 7 p.m.
Pumpernickel Puppets performs Sir George and the Dragon. Register online to get the link to view the 45 minute show…which will be posted all day on Thursday, July 16. For ages 4 and up.
Animal Adventures on Zoom. Animal Adventures will introduce children to live animals over Zoom. Children will meet a black and white tegu, an alligator, a pale fox, an eagle owl, an armadillo, a bobcat, and more. There will be an opportunity to ask questions over zoom. Please register online to get the zoom invite. For ages 4 and up. Tuesday, July 28 at 2 p.m.
FOR TEENS
Watercolor Flowers. See how simple shapes with watercolor paints can turn into adorable flowers. You’ll only need watercolors, a brush, paper, and pen to create these fabulous florals. Will post on our FB page and on Youtube on Thursday, July 2 at 3 p.m. For ages 12 and up.
6th Grade Book Group on Zoom. Will be discussing Eragon by Christopher Paolini. Please contact Pam at pmccuen@minlib.net if you would like to join the Zoom group. Wednesday, July 8 at 4 p.m.
Teen Paper Rose. Learn how to create a rose out of a single sheet of paper. You will also need a gluestick and a pair of scissors. We’ll post the tutorial on our FB page and on our YouTube channel on Thursday, July 23 at 3 p.m. For ages 14 and up.
Comic Drawing workshop on Zoom. Comic Book artist Jonathan Todd will lead a workshop on creating a graphic novel page. He will start with the elements of a story, then coach participants on how to plan the panels, create the thumbnail sketches, and pencil in and ink the page. A packet of art supplies will be provided to all participants, and will be available for curbside pickup at the library prior to the event. Please register online. For ages 10 and up. Thursday, July 30, 3 to 5 p..m
SUMMER READING
This year’s Summer Reading Program for children in grades pre-K to Grade 5 Imagine Your Story started on June 22. We are celebrating fairy tales, imagination and reading! Children keep track of their reading online and earn virtual badges for reading and completing fun craft and STEM challenges. Our youth services librarians have lots of great activities posted for you to do at home with your children. Also, we are hosting virtual programs throughout the summer, including a live animal show through zoom, and a virtual puppet show performed by the Pumpernickel Puppets.
Our Teen Summer Reading Program will also started on June 22. Teens keep track of their reading online and earn badges for reading, writing reviews, and completing activities. Every teen who writes 3 original book reviews will win a $10 gift certificate to Barnes & Noble. All participants in our teen summer reading club will be entered into a lottery to win a free Kindle Fire. Programing for teens, includes virtual crafternoons, a zoom class on drawing comics, and a virtual Escape Room.
Greetings from the Library! Would you be interested in participating in a live, virtual reading of Frederick Douglass’ famous address, What, to the slave, is your Fourth of July?
In an effort to provide educational programming and virtual discussion spaces addressing Black Lives Matter and issues of systemic racism in America, the Wayland Library will be hosting this event on Thursday, July 2nd at 7pm. We are following the model program created by Mass Humanities and hosted on the Boston Common the last few years.
The Library is looking for volunteers to read 2-3 paragraphs aloud, in a Zoom setting, and to possibly participate in a brief discussion/reflection exercise afterwards. The text is dense but powerful. The abridged version of the address is 30-35 minutes total and we anticipate 15-20 minutes for discussion. Please respond ASAP if you are interested (email Courtney Michael). Paragraphs will be distributed to readers on Sunday.
Thank you for your time, attention, and commitment to the community of Wayland.
Sincerely
Courtney Michael (Library) and Mary Antes (Board of Selectmen)
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During the coronovirus outbreak, we are cancelling Scrabble. Stay healthy, and check back for updates. Do you enjoy Scrabble, or want to learn? Would you enjoy playing with new or old friends? Word games are[...]
A sense of fun and normalcy returns with the ninth annual Community Outdoor Concert Series sponsored by the Wayland Council on Aging. The concert will be held at the Wayland Town Building. It is by RESERVATION[...]
Bring your art or craft to the COA on Friday mornings for a time of creativity and camaraderie. Are you a knitter, painter, jewelry maker, quilter, scrapbooker, or simply a creative soul? Join together for[...]
Are you a talented young musician? Do you know a talented young musician? This open mic welcomes anyone grade 5 – 12 to come perform! Whether a rock band or classical musician, come share your[...]
Run your Wayland errands with us on the 2nd Monday of each month. Home pick-ups begin at 10:00 a.m. Stops include Stop & Shop, Wayland Public Library, Panera and CVS. No charge. Call the COA[...]
Connect with old and new friends and enjoy good company and conversation. This informal conversation group, led by Wayland resident Irma Bloom, is for everyone. The group meets in the Council on Aging. Come when[...]
Recurring every two weeks on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month (except January 28) This open mic provides performers a venue where their music will be heard, and provides those attending the ability[...]
During the coronovirus outbreak, we are cancelling Scrabble. Stay healthy, and check back for updates. Do you enjoy Scrabble, or want to learn? Would you enjoy playing with new or old friends? Word games are[...]
Bring your art or craft to the COA on Friday mornings for a time of creativity and camaraderie. Are you a knitter, painter, jewelry maker, quilter, scrapbooker, or simply a creative soul? Join together for[...]
by Wendy Mass. Please contact Pam at 
by Christopher Paolini. Please contact Pam at 
