Lincoln PPT Meeting - Monday, September 26 7:00pm

Please join us for the first PPT meeting of the year this Monday, September 26 at 7:00pm in the Media Center. PPT meetings are a great opportunity to hear what PPT is planning, a great way to meet fellow parents, and a place to share your opinions or issues related to making Lincoln a great place for students and families.

The PPT is made up of parents/guardians, staff representatives, and the principal. You will be glad to know that all parents/guardians are members of the PPT simply because your child attends Lincoln. This means that all parents/guardians, staff representatives, and the principal have voting rights in regard to PPT business. In order for our PPT to be successful, we need you! Hope to see you Monday at 7:00pm.

Parent/Guardian Orientation - Thursday, September 22 - TONIGHT 6:00pm!

On Thursday, Sept 22, we will be hosting Parent/Guardian Orientation at Lincoln. It will begin at 6:00 in the gym with a presentation done by Mr. Sonju. Following the presentation, there will be two sessions to attend your child’s classroom(s). Each teacher or team will have important information regarding the school year.

2011 Lincoln Auction

Mark Your Calendar!

Saturday, October 29, 2011

Excitement is building for this year’s Lincoln Auction on

Saturday, October 29, 2011!

This year’s AUCTION will include the famous LIVE AUCTION, the always amazing SILENT AUCTION, and the much beloved BAKE SALE.

The Live Auction will feature a hot air balloon ride, weekend getaways, birthday parties, wine tastings, tickets to pro ball games and more! The Silent Auction rooms will host a wide variety of baskets, along with gift certificates and magazines.

AUCTION HOURS: Doors will open at 11:30am; Silent Auction rooms will close from 12:30-1:30pm; and the Live Auction will begin at 2:00pm. We hope all Lincoln families and friends will attend this fun event!

FUN FOR THE FAMILY! We haven’t forgotten the kids! The game Heads or Tails will be back by popular demand on Auction Day and all ages are welcome to play! Other activities include face painting, hair braiding and coloring, temporary tattoos and balloon animals. Child care for younger children and BINGO for the big kids will also be provided!

Help Make This Our Best Auction Ever!

Auction 2011 – Lincoln Family and Friends Donations Needed

The Lincoln Auction is a success because of you! Every year we highlight services and items donated by our Lincoln Families and Friends. What can you donate? Some previous donations are listed to help spark your own creative ideas:

• Vacation Experiences: Use of time shares, cabins, vacation properties or trips to water parks with hotels
• Unique Opportunities: Fishing excursions, cooking classes, wine tasting, dinner parties
• Party Planning: Birthday or other theme party, complete with party planning, supplies and clean up
• Baked Goods: Decorated cakes or cupcakes, pie of the month
• Professional Services: Tax preparation, will preparation, carpentry, tutoring, haircuts, day care, kitchen design, architectural consulting
• Special Services: Gift wrapping, garden tilling, floral arranging
• Tickets and Gift Certificates: Vikings, Wild and Timberwolves tickets; Beer of the Month membership
• Business Donations: Donations of goods and services from Lincoln Family and Friends owned businesses

If you are interested in making a donation:
Contact Melissa Murphy at mfmurphy1@charter.net; phone 358-5107 or Betsy Schroeder at betsyms@charter.net; phone 250-6137.137.

Rochester Alpine Ski Team - Info Meeting October 13

The Rochester High School Alpine Ski Team is holding a Parent/Skier Informational Meeting on October 13th at 7 p.m. in the Mayo High School Cafeteria. The Alpine Ski team is open to Rochester students, grades 7 - 12. The Rochester High School Alpine Ski Team's sign-up is October 18, 2011. Information and forms are available in the high school activities’ offices. For more information visit: www.RHSSST.com or e-mail RHSSST@hotmail.com

Gifted Services Informational Meetings - September 27 and 28

Gifted Services Informational Meetings will be held at Gibbs Elementary on September 27, 2011 from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. and at Riverside Elementary on September 29, 2011 from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. The same information will be shared at both sessions. These meetings are open to any interested parents. Information will be shared about Gifted Services in Rochester Public Schools for students in grades 3-5.

VIE - Volunteers in Education - September News

We are looking forward to another great year! Over the next few weeks the Volunteers in Education (VIE) committee will be organizing and matching volunteers with areas where they are needed. Thank you to all of you who have turned in your VIE form! If you have not turned in your VIE form yet, please do.
We are still in need of volunteers in many areas! One current need is during the students' lunch time (12-1pm). This opportunity is great for anyone who has a free lunch hour! We need volunteers to help out in the cafeteria who will:

• Assist with supervising students in the lunch room
• Assist students with opening items in their lunches
• Assist/monitor the use of the microwaves

If you are able to help out with this volunteer opportunity, please contact Cinnamon Marxen at cinnamonmarxen@yahoo.com. This is just one of the many great opportunities in VIE. Let us help match your interests and schedule so you can help the students at Lincoln by volunteering your time.
Thanks! Jodi Kruse ~ Kara Short ~ Cinnamon Marxen ~ Dani Nikolai

Temporary Transportation Requests

Transportation Services would like to clarify the use of Temporary Transportation Requests. These forms are to be used in the event of an emergency, i.e. out of town, family emergency etc. We do need a 24 hour notice for the request and keep in mind that not all requests will be honored as there has to be a bus stop in the area. We are getting many requests that don’t meet the criteria and will be denied.

Thanks,

Transportation Services

Parent of K Info Day Presentation

Kindergarten Parents:

CLICK HERE FOR THE PARENT OF K INFO DAY POWER POINT

Parents - Review Drop-Off, Pick-up and Parking Procedures

CLICK HERE FOR THE Drop-Off, Pick-up and Parking Procedures at Lincoln. 
Please review these documents so we can keep our Lincoln students safe!

Breakfast and Lunch Menus!!!

If you did not pick up a breakfast/lunch menu at Meet the Teacher yesterday, they are available here.

CLICK HERE FOR THE SEPTEMBER ELEMENTARY BREAKFAST/LUNCH MENU

CLICK HERE FOR THE SEPTEMBER UPPERS BREAKFAST/LUNCH MENU

AUGUST 31 - MEET THE TEACHER AND BACK TO SCHOOL PICNIC

MEET THE TEACHER - 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Start with the Information Fair in the gymnasium to get important information for families. Then visit the classrooms and connect/reconnect with staff members and classmates.

LINCOLN BACK TO SCHOOL PICNIC - NOTE THE CHANGE IN TIME!
We will be serving food from 4:30 – 6:OO pm.
Bring your own beverages, lawn chairs and picnic blankets!

SEE YOU TOMORROW!

Spirit Wear Order Form Available Online!

Lincoln Spirit Wear orders are being taken online now!
Lincoln t-shirts are available for $12.00, adult and child sizes, in multiple colors and three designs:

• Original Lincoln logo
• Lynx Classic logo
• Wild Lynx logo

Click on the link below and look in the column on the left - click on "Lincoln Spirit Order Form".
LINCOLN SPIRIT WEAR

Volunteers in Education - ViE - Complete the Volunteer Form!

The attached volunteer form must be filled out each year prior to volunteering in the school. One form per volunteer. Please turn in form to the VIE table at Meet the Teacher day or to the school office. Whether you can help once a week or once a year, we welcome you! Lincoln’s success comes from parental involvement and support!

CLICK HERE FOR THE ViE 2011 VOLUNTEER FORM

Lincoln Directory Form - Available to Complete Online!

Each year we have parents complete a directory form on Meet the Teacher day. This directory is published and sent to all parents. This year we will NOT being filling out the form but instead we are asking that you go to the Lincoln Website and complete the form ONLINE. This will insure that all the information is accurate and correct.

Click on the link below and look in the column on the left - click on "Parent Directory Form".

http://www.rochester.k12.mn.us/se3bin/clientschool.cgi?schoolname=school97

Notice to Parents - Student Accident Insurance and CHIP 2011

CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION ON: Student Accident Insurance and CHIP - Free or Low-Cost Health Coverage to Children and Families

Don't miss Meet the Teacher

Wednesday, August 31
3:00p.m to 5:00p.m.

What is it? All of Lincoln, all at one time. Don’t miss this great day to meet and greet friends, teachers and staff. Fill out important forms and get familiar with your classroom. Visit the tables at the Information Fair to pick up important information about organizations and activities at Lincoln. Find out how you can participate in making this a successful year!

Where do we begin? Meet the Teacher Day starts in the gymnasium with the Information Fair. When you arrive at school and before you visit your child’s classroom, please go to the gym. Once you’ve visited the Information Fair tables and picked up your Family Folder, drop off your Fair Agenda to enter the prize raffle, grab your meal ticket for the Back to School Picnic, and visit your child’s classroom.

What’s there to do at the Fair?

• Complete the School Directory form.
• Stop at the Auction table to sign up for your volunteer slot on Auction Day, October 29.
• Find out how you can contribute to the Auction through a Family and Friends Donation.
• Our Volunteers in Education (VIE) Coordinators will be there to tell you about the many great ways you can volunteer at Lincoln. Drop off your completed ViE form!
• Visit the Program Planning Team (PPT) table to find out how parents continue to play an important role in school-decision making and organizing school activities.
• Calculators and Student Agendas will be available for purchase during Meet the Teacher Day in the Office.

There will be other tables available to provide you with information from Food Service, the School Nurse, Lincoln’s Art, Music and Physical Education teachers. Information about Lincoln enrichment activities such as Destination Imagination, First Lego League, Chess Club, Math Masters, and Junior Great Books will also be there. SCRIP cards will also be on sale, so stock up!

Important Lincoln Dates - Mark Your Calendars:
• August 31 – Meet the Teacher, Information Fair & Back to School Picnic
• September 6 – Grades 1-8 First Day of School
• September 8 – Kindergarten First Day of School
• September 26, 7:00 PPT meeting

After Meet the Teacher....

...PLEASE JOIN US FOR THE FREE…

LINCOLN BACK TO SCHOOL PICNIC!

Wednesday, August 31 5:00 – 6:30 pm

AT LINCOLN SCHOOL

The picnic will immediately follow Meet the Teacher time. The picnic is a great opportunity to meet new families and connect with old friends.
The Lincoln Program Planning Team (PPT) will be providing the meal. We will be serving hamburgers/cheeseburgers on a Kaiser bun, fresh fruit, & potato chips.
Bring your own beverages (water or soda). Bring your own lawn chairs and picnic blankets.

We are looking for volunteers for the following timeframes:
• 4:30 – 5:00 pm Set Up - 3 people needed
• 5:00 – 5:45 pm Food Servers – 4 people needed
• 5:45 – 6:30 pm Food Servers – 4 people needed
• 6:30 – 7:00 pm Clean Up – 3 people needed
If you can volunteer for any of the above shifts, please contact
Robin Stearns at RStearns@olmmed.org 285-5649.
Your help is greatly appreciated!

Prinicpal's Letter

Dear Lincoln Families,

I hope everyone has had a wonderful summer and is as excited as I am to come back to school!

Family involvement and staff commitment that occurs for Lincoln’s benefit, even during the summer months, continues to amaze me! It is easy to see why Lincoln is such a special place with so many incredibly dedicated people. I am really looking forward to the school being filled with our energetic students, the talented staff, and involved families. It is going to be a fantastic year!

Of course, there is a whole lot of anticipation for the first day of school (September 6 for Grades 1-8 and September 8 for Kindergarten students), but there is a lot of preparation taking place in August including:

• Preparation for the Meet the Teacher event is well underway. We would like to extend an invitation to all families to attend two special events on
August 31. Meet the Teacher will take place from 3:00- 5:00pm. This time will allow students and their families to visit the classrooms and connect/ reconnect with staff members and classmates. The Information Fair in the gymnasium will provide important information for families. Please make plans to join us for this important event.

• The Lincoln Back to School Picnic will follow Meet the Teacher Day on August 31 from 5:00-6:30 pm at Lincoln. All Lincoln families are encouraged to attend this special event. The picnic is sponsored by Lincoln’s Programming Planning Team (PPT) and organized by the PPT Social Committee. Their hard work will be evident at the Back to School Picnic and other exciting events throughout the year.

More information about both of these events and other back to school news can be found in this August Lincs newsletter.

I would like to personally welcome and congratulate all incoming Kindergarten students, new students and new families that will be joining Lincoln K-8 this fall. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help make you feel at home.

Please feel free to contact me at 328-3550 if you have any questions, concerns, or comments or would just like to converse about the “Greatest School in the Universe” - Lincoln K-8 Choice School!

You can reach me by e-mail at jasonju@rochester.k12.mn.us.

Sincerely,
Jim Sonju
Principal

NEWS FROM THE PPT (PROGRAM PLANNING TEAM)

Welcome to the 2011-12 school year! For those new to Lincoln, PPT stands for Program Planning Team. The PPT is made up of parents/guardians, staff representatives, and the principal. You will be glad to know that all parents/guardians are members of the PPT simply because your child attends Lincoln.

The PPT is responsible for organizing a variety of social events, for raising funds to support academic enrichment opportunities, and for encouraging active parent/guardian involvement. We want you to feel welcomed and informed about the happenings at Lincoln. For example, one of the first big PPT events of the fall is Lincoln’s annual Auction. This is Lincoln’s primary fundraiser, and its success directly benefits Lincoln’s students. PPT meetings also provide opportunities for parents to learn more about some of Lincoln’s programs like InSciEd Out and Study Island.

However, in order for our PPT to be successful, we need you. We invite you to be a participating member of the Lincoln community by attending PPT meetings when you can. All are welcome! The meetings are held the fourth Monday of the month in Lincoln’s Media Center. The meetings begin promptly at 7:00 pm and last about an hour.

You can find more information about the PPT and other Lincoln happenings in the following places:
• The LincolnLincs online newsletter at www.lincolnlincs.blogspot.com
• The Lincoln Parent E-files electronic newsletter
• The Family Folder you will receive at the Meet the Teacher Information Fair
• The PPT website at http://www.rochester.k12.mn.us/school97/ppt

If the PPT can answer any questions or concerns about Lincoln, please let us know. We are here to help. We look forward to seeing you at the Meet the Teacher Information Fair and Back to School Picnic on August 31st.

Sincerely,
Chris Harmon PPT Co-President 282-7366 chharmon@rochester.k12.mn.us
Joscelyn Martin PPT Co-President 261-2716 jrkm911@gmail.com

LEGO LEAGUE

Lincoln FIRST LEGO League (FLL)

FIRST LEGO League and Jr FIRST LEGO League (Jr FLL) will be on display at the Meet the Teacher Day Information Fair.  For more information contact Cheryl Kliewer at 261-3699 or Cheryl@wiseraccoon.net

Jr FIRST LEGO (Jr FLL) For K – 3^rd Graders

Lincoln 2012 Snack Attack Season - This Spring - Keeping Food Safe

 Can Junior FIRST LEGO League teams master the science of safely preparing food?  In the 2011/2012 Snack Attack Challenge, K-3^rd grade Lincoln students will take a “hands on” approach to the topic of food safety by exploring how proper preparation and storage can help keep us healthy.   

The Challenge has two defined parts: Show-Me Poster and Model.  The Show-Me Poster requires kids to illustrate their research and team journey.   The Model portion of the Challenge gets kids’ hands busy. They build a representation of their research utilizing a motor to power movement in their model or moving an element of it by hand. 

Look for registration information in Dec/Jan.  This is Lincoln’s first year participating in Jr FLL.  It is a fun activity to coach and we need volunteer coaches!  Teams consist of 6 or less members. Teams will meet 6-8 times for 1½ hours.  Coaches can decide to meet once or twice a week.           

Lincoln FIRST LEGO League for 4^th -8^th graders

This year’s theme:   Food Factor Challenge “Keeping Food Safe”

2011 teams are formed and begin meeting in September.  Watch for next year’s registration this spring.  FIRST LEGO League is an exciting robotics competition that ignites an enthusiasm for discovery, science, and technology in Lincoln 4^th -8^th graders. Through their involvement in FIRST programs, children learn important life skills such as planning, research, collaboration, and mentorship. Registration for Fall 2012 teams will be this spring.

Kindergarten Parents!

ATTENTION KINDERGARTEN PARENTS!
“PARENT OF K INFO DAY” SESSIONS SEPTEMBER 6 AND 7

A special Lincoln orientation session will be held for kindergarten parents during your child’s Kindergarten Mini Day session. Experienced Lincoln parents and Lincoln leaders will be present to pass on important information about how you and your family can make the most out of your Lincoln experience. Information will include how to make kindergarten a great year; tips for student success; orientation to Lincoln organizations, events, traditions and lingo; and a look ahead to what your child’s future at Lincoln will look like.

Look for the Sign up for your “PARENT OF K INFO DAY” session in your child’s kindergarten classroom during Meet the Teacher Day.

AUCTION NEWS!

Mark Your Calendar!

2011 Lincoln Auction

Saturday, October 29, 2011

Excitement is building for this year’s Lincoln Auction that will be held on Saturday, October 29, 2011!

This year’s AUCTION will include the famous LIVE AUCTION, the always amazing SILENT AUCTION, and the much beloved BAKE SALE.  The Live Auction will feature weekend getaways, birthday parties, wine tastings, tickets to pro ball games and more!  The Silent Auction rooms will host a wide variety of baskets, along with gift certificates and magazines.

AUCTION HOURS:  Doors will open at 11:30am; Silent Auction rooms will close from 12:30-1:30pm; and the Live Auction will begin at 2:00pm.  We hope all Lincoln families and friends will attend this fun event!

FUN FOR THE FAMILY!  We haven’t forgotten the kids!  The game Heads or Tails will be back by popular demand on Auction day and all ages are welcome to play!  Other activities will include face painting, hair braiding and coloring, temporary tattoos, and balloon animals.  Child care for younger children and BINGO for the big kids will also be provided! 

There are many opportunities for families to get involved in the Auction: 

·         Poofing - We will be poofing this year in late August - October.  There will be more information to come on this opportunity.  Contact Amy King if you would like to be involved in poofing! (amyizzybear@yahoo.com)

·         Bake Sale – It’s not too early to start thinking about those tasty treats you could contribute to the Bake Sale.  If you would like more information on the Bake Sale please contact Melissa Engelken (jefnmel@charter.net) or Jodi Kruse (jmkruse22@gmail.com). 

·         Promotion - If you are interested in helping promote the Auction, handing out/posting flyers or posters, please contact Robin Stearns (RStearns@Olmmed.org) or Julie Wingert (djnwingert@aol.com).

      ·         Friends and Family Donation – If you have a donation for the Lincoln Auction, please  

           contact Melissa Murphy (mfmurphy1@charter.net) or Betsy Schroeder

          (betsyms@charter.net)

      ·         Auction Day Volunteers – Look for the Auction table on Meet the Teacher Day, August

          31^st, to sign up for volunteering on Auction Day.  You can also contact Nicci Watson 

          (onawat@aol.com) to volunteer your time.

Auction 2011– Lincoln Family and Friends Donations Needed

The Lincoln Auction is a success because of you!  Every year, we will highlight services and items donated by our Lincoln Families and Friends.  Put your creative hats on and sign-up to donate at the Auction table during the Meet the Teacher Day Information Fair!

What can you donate?  Some previous donations are listed to help spark your own creative ideas:

·        Vacation Experiences:  Use of time shares, cabins, vacation properties, or trips to water parks with hotel

·        Unique Opportunities: Fishing excursions, cooking classes, wine tasting, dinner parties

·        Party Planning: Birthday or other theme party, complete with party planning and party supplies and clean up

·        Baked Goods:  Decorated cakes or cupcakes, pie of the month

·        Professional Services: Tax preparation, will preparation, carpentry, tutoring, haircuts, daycare, interior design, professional consulting

·        Special Services: Gift wrapping, garden tilling, floral arranging

·        Tickets and Gift Certificates: Vikings and TimberWolves tickets, Beer or Food of the Month Membership

·        Business Donations: Donations of goods and services from Lincoln Family- and Friends-owned businesses

If you are interested in making a donation: 

·        Watch for the signup sheet at the Meet the Teacher Information Fair OR

·        Contact Melissa Murphy at mmurphy1@charter.net; phone 358-5107 or Betsy Schroeder at betsyms@charter.net; phone 250-6137.

 Please advise of donations by September 17^th!

AUCTION SUPPLIES NEEDED!

We are getting ready for the start of another school year and also preparing for the Lincoln Auction! As in the past, there are some items that we need: wired ribbon, paper shred, and large baskets. Please feel free to return any baskets from items you won last year – we love to recycle!  If you have any questions, please contact Amy King at amyizzybear@yahoo.com.

ViE-- Volunteers in Education NEWS

Dear Lincoln Families- 

Welcome to the 2011-12 school year!  If you are new to Lincoln, we welcome you into the great Lincoln community.  One of the many things that makes Lincoln stand out is the family volunteer support system.   

Volunteers in Education, or ViE, links parents to the volunteer opportunities that we have available at Lincoln, and within the district, to support our children’s learning.  Some of those opportunities include:

·         helping a teacher in the classroom

·         leading after school activities

·         being a media helper

·         helping students with math and reading 

This year, we are also encouraging grandparents to be involved as volunteers as well as parents.  What a wonderful way to be a part of your child or grandchild’s education! 

The ViE coordinators will be at Meet the Teacher day in the gym to talk further with you about the opportunities available for volunteering at Lincoln.  We have an interest inventory that will be coming to your inbox via email to print and bring with you to Meet the Teacher day.  If you did not get this copy, one will be available for you to complete that day.  We ask that every parent fill this out if you think at any time during the year you will be volunteering at the school in any way.  (This includes field trips or take-home projects.)   

We look forward to seeing you at Meet the Teacher day! 

ViE Coordinators,

Kara Short

Jodi Kruse

Cinnamon Marxen

Dani Nikolai

SCRIP

So what is this SCRIP thing that everyone at Lincoln talks about?

SCRIP is a fundraising program designed to help schools raise money without the door to door sales of typical fundraisers.  SCRIP is a program in which you purchase gift cards at face value and you get to use the full face value of the gift card.  Lincoln gets a set amount of profit from each card purchased. 

How do I purchase SCRIP?  Stop in the Lincoln Main Office and see what we have to choose from.  We keep in stock over 50 different cards from some of the most popular stops in Rochester.  We accept cash and checks. Funds raised from SCRIP

NEWS from the School Nurse:

Emergency Health Plan:
If you received an Emergency Care Plan (ECP) in the mail; you are asked to see the nurse during the orientation/meet the teacher event. The ECP needs to be turned in, updated if needed and signed for the coming school year. Please allow time to accomplish this important task before the start of school so we can meet your child’s needs during the school day.

Should your child need any scheduled or as needed medication(s) during the school day, orientation/meet the teacher is an excellent time to bring them into the health office. Prescription medications need to have a medication authorization form signed by a medical care provider. These can be found in the health office, on the Rochester public schools web site or provided by your medical care provider.

Immunizations - Important Notice: No one will be allowed to start school until all immunizations are current. Registration materials for students who need shots will be taken to the Edison Building in August, and parents will need to go there with proof of immunizations before your child can be admitted to school.

NEWS FROM THE LUNCHROOM:

 All meals must be prepaid. A payment into your student’s lunch
account is necessary prior to the first day of school.

 You will have an opportunity to put funds in your child’s
lunch account at Meet the Teacher Day.

 The balance from your child’s lunch account last year will be carried
over into this school year – whether it was a positive or negative balance.

 Incoming Kindergarten families – your student will have one opportunity this
year to eat lunch at Lincoln. You may pay for that lunch during
Meet the Teacher Day.

 You can sign up online any time (even before Meet the Teacher Day!) at www.paypams.com to electronically deposit money into your child’s lunch account throughout the year. You will need your child’s student I.D. number or lunch account number. Please contact Student Nutrition Services at 328-4218 if you don’t know this information.

 If you feel you might be eligible for the free and reduced lunch program, please make sure you complete an application. Contact the Student Nutrition Services office at 328-4218 if you need an application.

Lincoln Communication - School Year Wrap-Up

Thank you for using the LincolnLincs this year. We will be using the feedback from the Parent Communication Survey to make it an even better source of information for Lincoln families this Fall.

Some updates for the summer:

• The blog will not be updated very much during the summer. Watch your U.S. mailboxes for a print edition of the LincolnLincs in mid-August and come back in August to the LincolnLincs online to view all the August LincolnLincs articles online.

• Watch your e-mail in-boxes this summer for the Lincoln Parent E-Files. As news happens, it will be sent out, not every week but as often as needed.

• If you know of someone that is not getting the Lincoln Parent E-Files, have them send an email to jakulzer@rochester.k12.mn.us and he will put them on the distribution list. We have had issues this year with our lists, SPAM and other things that have resulted in parents being deleted from our database.

• If you are leaving Lincoln and no longer need or want these e-files, send an email to jakulzer@rochester.k12.mn.us. and put REMOVE ME in the subject line.

Have a GREAT SUMMER!

School Supply List Available

The school supply list is available at this link:  Supply list - Lincoln on page 21 and 22

Labels for Lincoln

Labels for Education


It's time for kids to go back to school, and Labels for Education, Cub® Foods, Farm Fresh®, Shoppers® Stores and Shop 'n Save® Stores are committed to enhancing education and local schools.


To assist in collecting Labels for Education points, Cub Foods, will have great deals from September 11-23, 2011 (varies by store), on select Labels for Education participating products from Campbell, Pepperidge Farm, Pop Secret, Dannon, Emerald and BIC products.

Once you have received your certificate, turn it into school!

BoxTops for Education


Box tops for education is offering double box tops on various products- watch for them! Our school goal is 1525.00 this year- we are already at 420.00. Remember to log into the Market place at http://www.boxtops4education.com/earn/marketplace/Default.aspx   to shop online and earn boxtops points from qualifying products! Some stores that participate are , but not limited to, Cabelas, Barnes and Noble, Best Buy, Expedia, iTunes, Overstock.com, Snapfish, Target, Zoobooks to name a few.

Log into http://www.boxtops4education.com/earn/bonus/Default.aspx  to learn where more bonus tops are being issued throughout the school year

Kemps, Milk Moola, Land o Lakes


Continue to collect these milk tops!

Running Start for School

PURPOSE: Provide school supplies to low-income students in Olmsted County.
The start of a new school year means buying school supplies, but for families with low-income it can be a challenge to provide the essential tools for their children to succeed in school. United Way of Olmsted County manages the Running Start for School initiative, which coordinates the collect and distribution of donated school supplies to students in need.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
Last year, 2,532 students received school supplies. This year there are 6,874 students eligible to receive school supplies. Eligibility requirements are as follows:

• Attend Kindergarten through 12th grade
• Live in Olmsted County
• Eligible for free/reduced lunch

HOW TO REGISTER?
Call (507) 287-1958 between June 1 and August 12 to register.
Registration is available in English, Somali and Spanish.
Longfellow Elementary School students must call between June 1 and July 15 to register.

COLLECTING SCHOOL SUPPLIES: Organizations, groups, or businesses are invited to either hold their own school supply collection drives and/or serve as a donation collection site for customers, clients and the general public to drop off school supplies. For information about how to hold a drive, be a drop site or to see what groups are already participating, go to: www.uwolmsted.org/runningstart. All collected school supplies must be dropped off at the United Way building (903 West Center Street) August 10-12. The school supplies are sorted and distributed to students on August 23 and 24.

DISTRIBUTING SCHOOL SUPPLIES: Students in grades K-5 receive a backpack (if needed) and students in grades 6-12 receive a backpack or a binder (if needed). Additionally students receive pencils, pens, markers, colored pencils, glue, pencil bag or box, highlighter, ruler, scissors, notebooks, folders, loose-leaf paper, and other items needed for individual grades. For a complete list of supplies we are collecting, go to: www.uwolmsted.org/runningstart.

VOLUNTEER: We need LOTS of help to sort and distribute school supplies August 8-24. Starting June 1 individuals may view volunteer opportunities under the Events section at: www.volunteersolutions.org/olmsted. Volunteers are also needed to help distribute school supplies to Longfellow Elementary School students on July 26.

CASH DONATIONS: Cash or check donations are accepted at United Way of Olmsted County (903 West Center Street, Suite 100 • Rochester MN 55902) and should be designated to Running Start for School. Donations are used to support the Running Start for School initiative.

SPONSORS: Running Start for School is a community initiative coordinated by United Way of Olmsted County in partnership with Rochester Public Schools and various business and community service organizations. Media partners include Cumulus Broadcasting (KYBA-FM Y105) and ABC 6 News (KAAL-TV).

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Contact United Way of Olmsted County at (507) 287-2000 or runningstart@uwolmsted.org.

Student Artwork on Display at Edison Building

Congratulations to the following Lincoln students who have art work hanging at the Edison Administration Building:

• Middles: Damien, SonyaIntermediates:  Ellie M., Tristyn, Madison, Makenna, Octavio, Ronan, Sydney, Ryan G., Jackson, Megan, Elisabeth, Drew, Nick
• Uppers:  Ben G., Bennett, Jordyn, Jackson R., Mya, Sybastyn, Dakota
• Lexi S., Catie, Emeline, Lauren, Ella, Bella, Ella S

Midwest Regional Zebrafish Conference - Student Scientist Presentations

August 5, 2011 3:00-5:00pm
Marriott Ballroom, Downtown, Rochester, MN

Students are invited to participate in the K-16 student science poster session of the Midwest Regional Zebrafish Conference and Education Summit.
Projects presented in categories including K-8, 9-12 and 13-16 and will be considered for awards. Also, unique entries will be considered and mentored for publication in a special issue of the journal, Zebrafish.
You DO NOT have to be using zebrafish to participate in this conference.

The deadline to submit an outline of your presentation idea to be considered for participation is June 30, 2011.

Click HERE for the flyer with full information on presentation requirements and contact information.

SCRIP SUMMER SALES DATES!

Here are the dates that Amy will be in the office from 8-10 AM selling SCRIP:

June 13 – 15 (available 8:30-3:00) Kwik Trip cards will be available on Wednesday.
June 29 8-10am
July 13 8-10am
July 27 8-10am

Back in office full time August 15th.

VIE Wrap Up of 2010-2011 School Year

The 2010-2011 School year has ended with some amazing volunteer hours numbers! Many thanks to all of you who donated your time to Lincoln this year. VIE would like to recognize the following volunteers who have logged in well over a hundred hours:
Vicki Couch
Cheri Philpott
Elizabeth Glowac
Heidi Haroldson
Jodi Kruse
Melissa Murphy
Noel Taylor

The following volunteers came in at about a hundred hours logged:
Gerard Wimmer
Julie Salsman
Pat Lynaugh
April Ekblad
Juli Gifford
Cinnamon Marxen
Cathy Nathan

Plus there are about 20 people who have between 50-90 hours and about two dozen that have 25-50 hours logged! WOW! Lincoln is blessed to have so many incredible volunteers. Thanks for a great year.

Lincoln Parent Communication Survey 2011

Lincoln wants to ensure that we are effectively communicating with all parents/guardians. Lincoln is conducting an online survey through the end of the school year that will give you the opportunity to give feedback that will be used to improve Lincoln's communication methods. The survey is anonymous. Please click on this link to take the survey: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ZT6W8TV

School Success Ideas for Parents - New LincolnLincs and Lincoln Website Feature!

The LincolnLincs has added a new feature called "School Success Ideas for Parents". Click on "School Success Ideas for Parents" at the top of the LincolnLincs page to access the information. Information is available in both English and Spanish. The links are also available on the front page of the Lincoln website.

"School Success Ideas for Parents" is developed by the nationally recognized Parent Institute and includes professional, research-based tips and ideas for school success on responsibility, respect, student motivation, reading, math, homework, study skills, routines, and discipline. This feature is provided by the Lincoln PPT and the Rochester Area PTSA Council.

PLEASE READ…Road Construction Begins Monday May 2

Construction on 12^th Street (i.e., Beltline/HWY 14) will be starting on Monday, May 2. The 8^th Avenue intersection with 12^th Street will remain open and the traffic signal will remain operational for at least the first week of construction. We will keep you updated as to when that will change.

At some point all 12th Street traffic will be moved over to the south side of the roadway and there will be no access to 8^th Avenue south of Lincoln School. Access will be provided for buses through the work area from 9 ½ Avenue to 8^th Avenue.

PPT May 2011

Greetings!
It's hard to believe the end of the school year is here already! We had our last PPT meeting of the year on Monday, May 16th, and we had several things to celebrate.

First, congratulation to Jeanne Depman. This former Lincoln student and up-coming JM grad was the recipient of Lincoln's Ellen Hunt scholarship. Well deserved, Jeanne!

Lincoln volunteers Noel Taylor and Pat Lyniugh also received an honor. These devoted Lincoln volunteers won the REA human rights award. What wonderful role models they are for us and our children! Congratulations!

Lastly, congratulations to Karen MacLaughlin our new in-coming PPT secretary and to Donna Layton our new PPT president-elect. We are excited to have you both in PPT leadership positions.

That's all there is to report for now! Have a wonderful summer break, and we'll see you back at Lincoln -- the greatest school in the universe -- next fall!

Chris Harmon
PPT co-president

Lincoln's FIRST LEGO League (FLL) - Informational Meeting and Pre-Registration - May 17

Attached is information and the pre-registration form for Lincoln's First Lego League (FLL) 2011-2012 season. FLL is an exciting and fun global robotics program that ignites an enthusiasm for discovery, science, and technology in kids in 4th - 8th grade. Lincoln's teams are now being formed for the 2011-2012 season, to begin this September.

An informational meeting is May 17th 7-8 pm in the Lincoln Media Center. The deadline for pre- registration for this Fall is May 27th, 2011. The registration fee will be collected in August at “Meet the Teacher Day.”

Click here for the Lincoln First Lego League Registration Form.
Click here for the Lincoln First Lego League Informational Handout.

For more information contact Cheryl Kliewer: 280-4107 or Cheryl@wiseraccoon.net




Lincoln Student Artwork on Display at Mayo Clinic May 24-26

Congratulations to the following students who will have their art on display at the Mayo Clinic Children’s Art Show, located on the main floor of the Mayo Building May 24th-May 26th.
Isabella Sinha
Ella Napton
Lauren Carlson
Jordyn Koenig
Bella Schlotthauer

Lincoln Sprouts Head to Farmers Market - May 14 and May 28

Andi and Ginelle and all the 2nd/3rd grade Lincoln Sprouts have been busy planting, watering and tending the plants in their classroom. On Saturdays May 14 and May 28 they will head to the Rochester Farmers Market to sell their plants to the public. Come on out and support Lincoln by buying vegetable, herb and flower plants from the Sprouts.

Are You Receiving the Lincoln Parent E-Files?

We are aware that some parents are not getting the weekly E-files. If you know someone that is not getting E-files each Thursday, please have them send an email to jakulzer@rochester.k12.mn.us and we will check out the problem. Many of the problems are a result of this email going into a SPAM folder.

Spring Dance - May 13!

Click here for the Lincoln Spring Dance flyer.
Spring Dance - May 13, 2011
Dance times:
K-5 6:00 to 7:30 PM (Parent must attend)
Uppers 6/7/8 8:00 to 10:00 PM
Refreshments available for purchase.
Music by Med City Music DJ Tom Garrett.

2011-2012 Family Input Forms - Due Friday, May 6

Click HERE for the Family Input Form for 2011-2012. This form gives you the opportunity
to provide input about your child for next year’s class placement. It is not required that you fill out the form, but it is an opportunity for your input. Please return to school office by Friday May 6th.

Zip-Loc Bags Needed for Book Swap

With Spring just around the corner, the Lincoln K-8 Book Swap will be here before we know it! We are need of Zip-loc bags (gallon size or larger) to hold books. Zip-loc donations can be sent to your child’s classroom or dropped off in the book bin outside the office. We have ordered several additional books from Scholastic and continue to receive numerous book donations from generous Lincoln families! Thank you! We have almost 3,000 books leveled and labeled. Our goal is for students to each receive 6 books to read over the summer. The only “summer slide” Lincoln children will have this year is straight up!! Thanks again for your support!

No SACC at Lincoln 2011-12

Rochester Public Schools School Age Child Care recently conducted a survey regarding the possibility of SACC being open on site at Lincoln for next school year 2011-2012. The results have been complied. At this time SACC is unable to open a location on site at Lincoln. Thank you to the 22 families who did reply. We will continue to offer SACC at all other elementary buildings to Lincoln families. We will also continue to monitor the needs in the future. Please let me know if you have questions. Thank you.

Melissa Fredin
Rochester Public Schools Community Education
Youth Manager
http://www.rochesterce.org
Desk 507/328-4042
SACC Office 507/328-4040
Youth Office 507/328-4000
Fax 507/328-4015

MCA Hall Volunteers Needed

We are looking for volunteers to be hall monitors during the testing times.  Starting next week on Tues., April 19th and Wed., April 20th we need 4 volunteers each morning from 9:30-12:00 and 2 volunteers in the afternoon 12:45-3:00. 

The following two weeks of testing we will need 2 people in the morning each day of testing starting at 9:30 for about 2 hours.  These days are Tues 4/36, Wed 4/27, Thurs 4/28,  Tues 5/3, Wed. 5/4, Thurs. 5/5.  Please email jeffnmel5@gmail.com if you can help any of these times.  Volunteering during the MCA is an easy way to help out, bring a book, get comfortable and keep the halls quiet and calm so the students can do their best on the MCAs.

Lincoln Garage Sale – Items Needed

Spring cleaning? While you're cleaning out your closets, toy boxes and bookcases please set aside items that you can donate to our Annual Lincoln Garage Sale. This year's sale will be held on Saturday, May 21. You can start dropping off your donated items on the afternoon of Thursday, May 19.

MCA Volunteers Needed

We are looking for volunteers to be hall monitors during the testing times for MCA. Volunteering during the MCA is an easy way to help out. A hall monitor helps keep the halls quiet and calm so the students can do their best on the MCAs. Add bonus, it is also a great time to catch up on some reading! So bring a book and help Lincoln out at the same time! Starting next week on Tues., April 19th and Wed., April 20th we need 4 volunteers each morning from 9:30-12:00 and 2 volunteers in the afternoon 12:45-3:00. The following two weeks of testing we will need 2 people in the morning each day of testing starting at 9:30 for about 2 hours. These days are Tues 4/36, Wed 4/27, Thurs 4/28, Tues 5/3, Wed. 5/4, Thurs. 5/5. Please email jeffnmel5@gmail.com if you can help any of these times. Thanks!

AUCTION 2011

We're gearing up for the 2011 Auction and we need your help! The Lincoln Auction is the primary fundraiser for our wonderful school. Many of the programs that help make Lincoln special are funded by the Auction. That is why we need everyone to take part in making the 2011 Auction the best ever!

We are looking for volunteers to solicit goods and services for the Auction. There are three different Solicitor Committees: Friends and Family Solicitor, Live/Platinum Local Solicitor and Internet Solicitor. These Committees and their work are crucial to the success of our Auction.

Please call or email Melissa Murphy (280-6367, mfmurphy1@charter.net) or Betsy Schroeder (292-0986, betsyms@charter.net) to learn more about these positions and to volunteer.

THIS WEEK! Chat With the Principal - Thursday, April 7 12:00 Noon

Thursday April 7 – 12:00 to 12:45pm in the Conference Room - Join Lincoln Principal Jim Sonju for this year's first "Chat With the Principal". Mr. Sonju will share information about the latest news and issues at Lincoln, and then he wants to hear from parents. You will have a chance to ask questions of and raise issues with Mr. Sonju. Bring your lunch – we hope to see you there!

Study Island and MCA Prep

It is the most vital time of the year for students to prepare for the MCA test in April.  Spring Break is a lengthy time off - 15,360 minutes! Plenty of minutes to BOTH enjoy some time off AND to stay engaged with Study Island!  Please encourage your son/daughter to work on Study Island 20-30 minutes a day over this time period.  You can help them through areas they have been struggling with to provide them with the assistance and motivation to complete unfinished sections.

You should be getting an Individual Student Report next week telling you how your student is doing in Study Island.  We need students to work on Study Island over the break.  Research has shown that students that complete the Math, Reading and Science(5^th and 8^th) do significantly better on the MCA test.  Students that are having trouble passing a section can email Jakulzer@rochester.k12.mn.us or jasonju@rochester.k12.mn.us or migobin@rochester.k12.mn.us and we will reset that section of Study Island so that students can start over.  It is very important that students spend DAILY time on Study Island over the break so that they are ready to take the tests on April 19^th.

The second reason for working on Study Island is that teachers can look their class and identify problem areas that can be re-taught before the test.    Student Success on the MCA's involves everyone- parents, students, and staff.  If we are working together, the students will be successful.

Another MCA Prep Site: Please be sure and check out this year's MCA sample tests available on our website, www.ppnie.com.  Log in directions are listed on our home page.

Chat With the Principal – April 7 12:00-12:45

Thursday April 7 – 12:00 to 12:45pm in the Conference Room - Join Lincoln Principal Jim Sonju for this year's first "Chat With the Principal". Mr. Sonju will share information about the latest news and issues at Lincoln, and then he wants to hear from parents. You will have a chance to ask questions of and raise issues with Mr. Sonju. Bring your lunch – we hope to see you there!

Auction Solicicitors Needed

We're gearing up for the 2011 Lincoln Auction and we need your help! The Lincoln Auction is the primary fundraiser for our wonderful school. Many of the programs that help make Lincoln special are funded by the Auction. That is why we need everyone to take part in making the 2011 Auction the best ever!

We are looking for volunteers to solicit goods and services for the Auction. There are three different Solicitor Committees: Friends and Family Solicitor, Live/Platinum Local Solicitor and Internet Solicitor. These Committees and their work is crucial to the success of our Auction.

Please call or email Melissa Murphy (280-6367, mfmurphy1@charter.net) or Betsy Schroeder (292-0986, betsyms@charter.net) to learn more about these positions and to volunteer.

Lego Robotics Boot Camp – FOR ADULTS!

Hey adults, don't let the kids have all the fun! Here are few reasons why you should join Lego Robotics boot camp:

• Easily program and manipulate your robot to go different directions.
  
• It's simple and easy. There are preset commands. You can select, drag and drop into your program. Click a button and watch your robot perform the task.
  
• No programming knowledge is required whatsoever. Codes are already in there, ready for you to select and activate.
  
• Your child/grandchild/student may want to join an First Lego League team.

Each class will teach different beginner programming skills. Join us in the Lincoln Media Center for one class or for all three:

• Tuesday April 12, 2011 7-9 pm
  
• Wednesday April 20, 2011 7-9pm
  
• Thursday May 12, 2011 7-9pm
  

RSVP to Cheryl Kliewer at 507-261-3699 or cheryl@wiseraccoon.net so we can plan for the right number of adults.

SACC Survey Available – Deadline April 8

NOTE – the online survey itself says the survey is due by March 11 – the correct deadline for the survey is April 8 – so don't let that discourage you from completing the survey if you are interested!

The School Age Child Care Program (SACC) is available where registration numbers will support an operating site. As you may be aware, Rochester Community Education had the tough decision to discontinue the School Age Child Care Program at Lincoln due to continuing low enrollment. SACC is currently still available for all Lincoln families at other buildings but not on site at Lincoln. SACC would like to conduct a survey regarding the next school year 2011-2012. If your family would be interested in using SACC for your child(ren) in grades K-5, please respond to the survey located here: Lincoln SACC Survey 2011. Please respond to the survey by April 8, 2011.

Click here for an information sheet on the SACC program and the survey.

PPT Minutes from February 28 Now Available

The minutes for the PPT Meeting from February 28 can be accessed here: PPT Minutes February or on the PPT Minutes tab at the top of the page.

SCRIP - Help fund our wireless access points!

SCRIP is still on sale in the office and continues to support technology. We are in the process of acquiring more netbooks and adding much need wireless ports so that students can get on our network. With the proliferation of cell phones, iPods, and laptops we overload our wireless access points and need to add more.

Lost and Found - Claim Your Missing Items!

The lost and found table is up and in the hall near the gym. Items will remain there during conferences this week and then unclaimed items will be donated to Savers.

Garage Sale - Saturday, May 21

Spring means turning the clock ahead, wearing lighter clothes (maybe?) and the Lincoln Garage Sale!

Mark your calendar! This year’s Garage Sale is on Saturday, May 21.

Start cleaning out those closets, toy chests, and garages. Get ready for the biggest garage sale yet!

School Age Child Care at Lincoln - Complete the Survey!

The School Age Child Care Program (SACC) is available where registration numbers will support an operating site. As you may be aware, Rochester Community Education had the tough decision to discontinue the School Age Child Care Program at Lincoln due to continuing low enrollment. SACC is currently still available for all Lincoln families at other buildings but not on site at Lincoln.

SACC would like to conduct a survey regarding the next school year 2011-2012. If your family would be interested in using SACC for your child(ren) in grades K-5, please respond to the survey located here: Lincoln SACC Survey 2011. Please respond to the survey by April 8, 2011.

Click here for an information sheet on the SACC program and the survey.

Book Fair Carnival - Your Ticket to Read!

Scholastic Book Fair is coming to Lincoln this week.  Wednesday March 9th from 9am-4:30pm, Thursday March 10th from 9am-8pm and Friday March 11th from 9am-4:30pm and then open again in the evening from 6:30pm-8:30pm.

On Friday evening, March 11th, we will be hosting the Lincoln Book Fair and Ice Cream & Soda Social in the gym.  Turn in your slip by Friday at noon to attend the ice cream & soda social.

Parent Feedback Needed on InSciEd Out

Dear Lincoln Parent – The InSciEd Out team is pulling together a number of metrics to use to evaluate the progress and impact the new science curriculum has had on students in grades K-5. We are collecting parent comments and observations on how the new science curriculum modules have impacted their Lincoln student. We are hoping you would be willing to share your comments and observations with us. We are hoping to use these parent comments in a power point/conference call we have next Tuesday with Michael Lach, advisory on STEM initiatives to the U.S. Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan.

We would like to keep this as open ended as possible so that we can get your genuine feedback about the impact of InSciEd Out, but some questions you might want to think about include:

• Is your child excited about learning science?
  
• Does your child want to do science activities at home or outside school?
  
• Is your child talking about science at home? Is your child eager to share what they are doing and learning in science?
  
• Do you feel that your child is learning science? Why or why not?
  
• Do you feel that your child's overall performance at school has been impacted by the new science curriculum?
  
• How does the science your child is learning at Lincoln compare to the science you learned when you are in school?
  
• How has InSciEd Out affected the learning environment at Lincoln?
  

Any observations you have about InSciEd Out and your child's Lincoln experience are welcome. Please email them to me at natecate13@charter.net as soon as you can, as we are pulling together the power point this weekend and on Monday. Also feel free to pass this on to any K-5 parent you think might want to add their feedback!

Thanks for your assistance –

Cathy Nathan natecate13@charter.net

Spring Picture Time

It is picture time again! We are looking for volunteers to help out. The date is Tuesday, March 8th. We need 2 volunteers to take the first shift from 9:30-11:30 and then two more from 11:30 to 1:45. Let us know if you are available to assist by emailing jmkruse22@gmail.com .

Thanks so much! Lincoln VIE

District Superintendent Search – Community Input

The Rochester Public School district has started the process of searching for the next superintendent. There are two opportunities for the public to provide input to the process of developing a "New Superintendent Profile" which the search firm will use to recruit candidates for the superintendent position.

• The District is conducting a survey to collect information from the community about the desired skills and characteristics for the next Superintendent. You may choose to give your confidential feedback by accessing the Survey linked here. Superintendent Survey. If you need a survey to complete by hand, please contact the Assistant School Board Clerk: 328-4224, weedgar@rochester.k12.mn.us, or 615 7th Street SW, Rochester, MN 55902. Please submit feedback by March 10, 2011. You may also send the feedback electronically to the consultants at mdragseth@comcast.net or fax the feedback form to 507-328-4212.
  

• March 10, 2011 - Provide input into the "New Superintendent Profile". Three sessions will be held. Meetings are open to the public. Interested community members should go to the site of their preference. No sign-up is required.
  
  • Gibbs Elementary School, 7:00pm, 5525 56^th Street NW
    
  • Kellogg Middle School, 7:00pm, 503 17^th Street NW
    
  • Willow Creek Middle School, 7:00pm, 2425 11^th Avenue SE
    

Memory Book

We have almost reached our goal in Memory Book orders.  If you or your children want a Lincoln Memory Book, get your order in next week.  $12.00 gets you 24 pages of memories.  Put the money in an envelope, put your child's name and teacher on the front and send it to school.

Zip-Loc Bags Needed for Book Swap

With Spring just around the corner, the Lincoln K-8 Book Swap will be here before we know it! We are need of Zip-loc bags (gallon size or larger) to hold books. Zip-loc donations can be sent to your child's classroom or dropped off in the book bin outside the office. We have ordered several additional books from Scholastic and continue to receive numerous book donations from generous Lincoln families! Thank you! Kohl's volunteers are also scheduled to label and level approx. 2,000 of our books at the end of the month. In addition to this, we will receive $500 from them!  Our goal is for students to each receive 6 books to read over the summer.  The only "summer slide" Lincoln children will have this year is straight up!! Thanks again for your support!

GEMS Food Drive for Channel One

GEMS (Girls Excel @ Modeling Success) are hosting another food drive for Channel One.  CAN you "fill" the love? (February 14^th-February 28^th)  Bring a can of food into the office, put your name on a heart, and place the heart in the appropriate container.  At the end of the month, the LINC with the most hearts will be awarded a "GEM" of a prize.  GEMS would like to thank you for supporting our local community.