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

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Vintage library door gets a facelift

The carved oak front door to the Lincoln Public Library has been restored to its 19th-century glory. Over the decades, the sun had stripped the finish from the wood, and a recently installed plexiglass storm door did not add to its visual appeal. “It was really in very poor shape,” said library trustee Peter Sugar.

A restoration painter stripped the wood, replaced some of the moldings and refinished everything, so now the door looks much as it did more than 125 years ago. The library, designed by noted Boston architect William G. Preston, was built using a $27,000 donation from Lincoln resident George Grosvenor Tarbell.

GearTicks teach robotics at Girl Scout event

The GearTicks at WPI for the “Geek is Glam” event: Howie Tsang, Ben Morris, Prerna Karmacharya, Andreas Muzila, Erin Crisafi, Amelia Pillar, and Kevin Ji (click to enlarge).

By Prerna Karmacharya

The GearTicks, a local robotics team based in Lincoln, demonstrated their vacuum pump and helped the Girl Scouts build prosthetic hands and drive LEGO Segways at the Girl Scout “Geek is Glam” event on October 13 at WPI in Worcester.

At the event, the Lincoln GearTicks interacted with girls in grades 4–8, teaching them about how robotics is fun and getting them interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math).

Prerna Karmacharya shows a 3D-printed prosthetic hand to a Girl Scout.

The GearTicks also take part in a competition called FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) for middle and high school students, where they design, build, and program robots to compete in a challenge once a year. Teams all over the globe compete in this competition. FTC also encourages community outreach.

Last year for FTC, the GearTicks designed a vacuum pump as part of their design for their robot and built the pump from parts they made on their 3D printer. The team also spent lots of time perfecting the custom vacuum pump and enjoy sharing knowledge about it with others.

The GearTicks also 3D-printed prosthetic hands as part of the e-NABLE prosthetic hand project. Through building the hands, they are able to give back to the community using their knowledge, and share their skills with others.

The Girl Scouts came in four groups of about 100 kids in each group. Overall there were about 440 Girl Scouts there. Other exhibitors were iRobot and Bose, along with other groups including a few FRC teams.

Lincoln GearTicks team members Amelia Pillar, Erin Crisafi, Howie Tsang, and Andreas Muzila get ready for the Girl Scouts event. 

One of the Girl Scouts worked with GearTick members Prerna and Amelia to build the prosthetic hands. It turned out that this Girl Scout’s foster sister had a prosthetic hand that was also from e-NABLE.

“It overjoyed me to learn about someone who had benefited from these hands,” Prerna said.

The GearTicks hope that they can keep helping the community. They really enjoyed teaching the Girl Scouts about science and engineering, as well as getting them more interested in STEM. The team strives to use their STEM skills to help their local community.

Court rules against McLean Hospital in Bypass Road case

In a much-awaited decision released this week, the state land court has denied McLean Hospital’s appeal of a town decision against a plan to put a 12-bed residential facility for boys in a residential property on Bypass Road.

The saga began in 2016 when the hospital purchased the 6,700-square-foot home at 22 Bypass Rd. with plans to house boys age 15-21 for transitional care as part of its 3East program. McLean argued that this constituted an educational use of the property, which made it exempt from town zoning restrictions. The so-called Dover Amendment in state law requires towns to permit educational and religious facilities in areas not zoned for such uses.

Citing previous court cases, town attorney Joel Bard said in a May 2016 letter that he believed McLean’s use was educational and thus permitted, so then-Building Inspector Dan Walsh gave the initial go-ahead in a letter of his own in July 2016. But a group of neighborhood residents successfully appealed to the Zoning Board if Appeals, which overruled Walsh. McLean then filed suit to appeal the ZBA decision in late 2017, and the case went to trial in October 2017.

McLean argued that its program included a curriculum to teach clients coping skills drawn from dialectical behavior therapy. “But to conclude that the structure of the program essentially transforms a therapeutic program into an educational one for the purposes of Dover Amendment protection would, in fact, elevate form over substance,” the court ruled. “The primary and predominant purpose of the 3East Boys Program is the treatment of a serious mental condition. Accordingly, this court finds and rules that McLean’s 3East Boys Program is not an educational use entitled to the benefits and protections of the Dover Amendment.”

“We are gratified by the decision of the court which affirms the thoughtful approach of our ZBA, and its careful analysis of the facts, and upholds the integrity of the town’s bylaw,” the Board of Selectmen said in a statement. “The nature of the project raised passions on both sides, among those who were concerned, and among those who were generally supportive of McLean’s proposal… In the end, we believe the process yielded the right result for our community.

“We always said this was a medical program that should not be allowed in a residential area under the educational exemption,” said Steve Kanner, the primary organizer of the residents who fought McLean’s proposal. “We’re certainly highly pleased to see the court came down and said exactly that, including referring to a possible overreach of the argument.”

Kanner called the ruling “a ringing affirmation of the correctness of the ZBA’s decision,” adding, “I would hope there would be some institutional reflection on the original decision [that McLean’s proposal was allowable] and how and why it came about.”

Selectmen sounded a similar note in their statement. “Going forward, we will reflect on the process and evaluate what worked well and where there are opportunities for improvement, to help inform our response should a similar proposal come forward in the future.”

Special counsel Jay Talerman, who represented the town during the lawsuit, declined to comment on the decision but said town officials and attorneys planned to meet Friday to discuss it.

“I’m happy for the decision. It upheld the analysis and decision that the ZBA made in its very careful review,” said Joel Freedman, who as ZBA co-chair was one of the defendants in the case. “It probably breaks some new law in the area of the Dover amendment and the limits of it, which is interesting.”

Dr. Philip Levendusky, senior vice president for business development and communications and director of McLean’s Psychology Department, and Diane Tillotson, McLean’s attorney in the case, did not return calls or emails Wednesday requesting comment.

News acorns

Public notices

  • The Board of Selectmen will hold a public hearing on Monday, Oct. 15 at 7 p.m. to consider the application by Lincoln Station LLC, 145 Lincoln Road, Lincoln, MA for the transfer of an on-premises all alcoholic beverages restaurant license.
  • There will be a bank auction of the property at 129 Concord Rd. formerly owned by Richard D. Salwitz and Susan Fulmer Salwitz on Friday, Oct. 12 at 11 a.m.

Open house at Masonic Lodge

Members of Joseph Warren-Soley Masonic Lodge of Lincoln invite the public to an open house on Saturday, Oct. 20 from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Residents can learn about Freemasonry, the numerous local charities they support, educational and leadership skills they impart, and the ability for qualified men to seek the best version of themselves. The lodge is in the old South School at 181 Lincoln Rd. On a recent Charity Night, the Lincoln group donated more than $17,000 to regional charities.

Train schedule change will happen Oct. 29

The adjustments to the commuter rail schedule  affecting Lincoln will take effect on October 29, not October 22 as originally announced. Click here for the October 1 News Acorn.

Parent-child ceramics at deCordova

Parents and children age 6-9 can create unique ceramic sculpture together in deCordova’s professional clay studio during “Family Clay Saturdays: Parent-Child Ceramic Series” on Saturdays, October 13 to November 3 from 10 a.m.–noon. Learn basic hand-building and glazing techniques as you work side by side to create a hanging mobile and a seasonal spirit house. Click here for more information and registration. Questions? Contact Julie Bernson at jbernson@decordova.org or 781-259-3649.

Concert, open house at First Parish

The First Parish in Lincoln will present a “Live in Lincoln Center” concert on Saturday, Oct. 20 at 3 p.m. in the Parish House (14 Bedford Rd.) with works by Corelli, Handel, Vivaldi, Bach and de Boismortier performed by musicians from the Handel & Haydn Society. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. Suggested donation is $30.

The following day (Sunday, Oct. 21), the church will hold an open house coffee at 11:15 a.m. in the sanctuary’s Stearns Room (4 Bedford Rd.). following the 10 a.m. worship service. Everyone interested in learning more about First Parish in Lincoln is welcome to attend.

Author talk by Cai Emmons

The Lincoln Public Library will host a talk by Lincoln native Cai Emmons, author of the recently published novel Weather Woman, on Thursday, Oct. 25 at 7 p.m. Tarbell Room. Emmons, who grew up in Lincoln, teaches in the University of Oregon’s Creative Writing Program and is the author of two earlier novels, His Mother’s Son and The Stylist. Copies of Weather Woman will be available for purchase and signing.

Talk on Codman Estate portraits

From high-end works by John Singleton Copley and Gilbert Stuart to others by once-famous artists to humble family snapshots, the Codman Estate’s portrait collection extends over 200 years of changing styles. “Portraits and Personalities” on Saturday, Oct. 27 from 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. takes a fresh look at this collection, including rarely seen works of art. Hear the real stories of the people behind these pictures, both the subjects and the artists. $15 for Historic New England members, $20 for nonmembers. Registration required; call 617-994-6690 or click here.

Two new classes at L-S Adult Ed

Lincoln-Sudbury Adult Education has added two classes to its fall/winter offerings. Lisa Cukier, a partner with Burns and Levinson will host sessions on estate planning and probate administration in Massachusetts on two Wednesdays, Nov. 7 and 14, from 7–8:30 p.m. in Room B330. She will also discuss estate litigation, family disputes, and financial exploitation by caregivers relating to the assets of individuals with diminished mental capacity. “Les Petits Chefs” is a hands-on cooking class for seventh- and eighth-graders 0ffered by L-S faculty members Dot Samsi and M.J. Galano (the ability to speak French is not required). A mini-lesson on French culture will accompany each session. The class will he held on three Thursdays (Nov. 29, Dec. 13, and Jan. 24) in Room C124. Click here for more information and to register for classes.

News acorns

20th anniversary event for Domestic Violence Roundtable

The Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable will host a dinner and documentary play to mark its 20th anniversary on Thursday, Oct. 18 starting at 6 p.m. at t the Trinitarian Congregational Church, 53 Cochituate Rd., Wayland The play, No More Secrets: Survivor Voices from The Second Step, will feature professional actors as well as actors from our local communities. Among the cast are Joyce Kulhawik, Aruna Pundit, Gail-Ann Simon, and Lynnet Sloa. Tickets for the evening are $25 and may be purchased online at the Roundtable website or by sending a check to Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable, P.O. Box 543, Sudbury, MA 01776.

Last hazardous waste collections for 2018

The last two hazardous waste collection days in the area will take place on two Saturdays, October 13 and November 3, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the hazardous waste collection facility at 60 Hartwell Ave. in Lexington. All residents must preregister with the Lincoln Board of Health by calling 781-259-2614. The next scheduled collection event will be in April 2019. No latex paint will be accepted.

Commuter rail schedules to change slightly

Effective Monday, Oct. 22, new commuter rail schedules will go into effect. On the Fitchburg line that passes through Lincoln, there are four peak-time trains whose stops are changing by more than five minutes:

  • #406 (inbound 6:45 a.m.) – departs Wachusett 5 minutes earlier at 6:40 a.m.
  • #410 (inbound 8:00 a.m.) – departs Wachusett 10 minutes later at 8:10 a.m.
  • #401 (outbound 6:25 a.m.) – departs North Station 10 minutes later at 6:35 a.m.
  • #419 (outbound 5:00 p.m.) – departs North Station 5 minutes later at 5:05 p.m.

The MBTA adjusts commuter rail schedules twice a year to meet changing passenger needs and reflect system upgrades. Schedules are posted at www.mbta.com.

Workshops at Farrington Nature Linc

Farrington Nature Linc in Lincoln is hosting a series of outdoor workshops in October and November. They will take place rain or shine. Minimum age is 6. Tickets are $30 for an adult-child pair, and $10 for an extra person of any age. Click here to buy tickets.

Primitive fire-making
Saturday, Oct. 20 from 9 a.m.–noon
Starting with a lighter, you will learn the mechanics of modern fire making tools, and we will move back in time and learn about the bow brill, hand drill, and strap drill friction fire making methods. We will then explore hands-on cordage making (rope from plant fibers) learning the history, how to harvest and prepare fibers, and of course make your own. Perhaps the most important ancient skill.

From tree to table
Saturday, Oct. 27 from 9 a.m.–noon
What is there to eat in the woods? Every season and landscape offers unique and nutritious plants to eat and use as medicine. Go on a walk and learn about the most local, organic, and free plants in our area.

Shelter building
Saturday, Nov. 3 from 9 a.m.–noon
It can get cold out there. Do you have the knowledge to keep yourself warm by using only materials found on the forest floor? We’ll learn about clothing selection, things to pack in your survival kit, and how to construct a debris shelter using no tools.

Intro to animal tracking and bird signs
Saturday, Nov. 17 from 1–4 p.m.
Go into the woods with Bob Metcalfe of New England Discovery to look for evidence of the animals around us. Tracking can be a very powerful way to learn about nature while seeing first-hand some of the many connections between animals and their environment.

News acorns

Lincoln Nursery School open house

Lincoln Nursery School (LNS), located inside the deCordova Sculpture Park, will hold an open house on Saturday, Oct. 13 from 9–11 a.m. Children are welcome. LNS accepts children from 2 years 9 months through six years, including a pre-K/kindergarten classroom.

Presentation on Maria Callas

The Lincoln Public Library presents “Opera for Everyone: Maria Callas,” a multimedia presentation with Erika Reitshamer on Sunday, Oct. 14 at 2 p.m. Reitshamer has lectured on opera for many years and was active in the formation of the Boston Lyric Opera Company more than 40 years ago. Sponsored by the Friends of the Lincoln Public Library.

Cabaret night at library

Mary Crowe (vocals) and Evelyn Harris (piano) will present an evening of cabaret music on Wednesday, Oct. 17 at 7 p.m. in the Lincoln Public Library’s Tarbell Room. They will perform cabaret songs by Poulenc, Britten, Bolcolm, and Weill, as well as contemporary cabaret songwriters Carole Hall, Harriet Goldberg, and Crowe. She and Harris perform as a duo and with the Lincoln Hill Trio at jazz clubs, arts centers, retirement communities and libraries throughout the Boston area. For more information and calendar of upcoming performances, visit www.marycrowesings.com. Free and open to all. Sponsored by the Friends of the Lincoln Public Library.

Hydrant flushing starts Oct. 15

The Lincoln Water Department will be flushing fire hydrants as part of its program to improve water quality. Flushing will begin on Monday, Oct. 15 from 1–6 p.m., Monday–Friday and will continue until completion. Check the Water Department web page or call at 781-259-8997 to see when your area will be affected.

If you encounter discolored water, shut the water off and wait several minutes. After waiting, check the clarity by running cold water for a few minutes, allowing new water to work its way into your pipes. The water may also have a milky appearance due to tiny but harmless air bubbles that will dissipate. It may also have a more pronounced chlorine taste or odor that will dissipate when water is left to sit in an open container.

Eric Lee at next LOMA

Eric Lee

Eric Lee is the featured performer at the next LOMA (Lincoln Open-Mike Acoustic) night on Monday, Oct. 15 in the Lincoln Public Library’s Tarbell Room. The event runs from 7–10 p.m., and Lee will perform a half-hour set starting around 8:30. He plays various genres including folk, bluegrass, psych-rock, Celtic, and Americana.

LOMA is a monthly event. Admission is free and refreshments are provided. Performers can sign up at the event or email Rich Eilbert at loma3re@gmail.com for a slot. There is a sound system with mikes and instrumental pickups suitable for individuals or small groups.

Twisted Tree set to open on Saturday

The Twisted Tree Cafe (photo courtesy Christine Doherty).

Saturday is opening day for the Twisted Tree Cafe, the Mall at Lincoln Station’s newest eatery.

Lincoln residents C.J. and Christine Doherty began working on renovations and permitting in the late spring, about three months after the Trail’s End Cafe closed. They will be open on weekends from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays.

The menu will feature gourmet coffees and teas, toast and pastries, sandwiches, salads, bento boxes, and more. Among the new features: cooking facilities that will allow the restaurant to serve foods including eggs, breakfast burritos and grilled sandwiches; and online ordering for commuters and others. The furnishings include a countertop for those who want to work, as well as tables and chairs. 

The Dohertys, who hope the Twisted Tree will serve as a neighborly gathering place, may apply for a liquor license in the future. “We’re just excited to open the doors and start serving good coffee and food,” Christine Doherty said.

Obituaries

John Hammond

John Hammond, 81 (September 16) — Harvard business professor and management consultant who championed environmental causes. A celebration of his life will take place on Sunday, Oct. 14 at 2 p.m. at the Pierce House. Feel free to come in your gardening clothes to enjoy ice cream and hear a few John stories.. Click here for full obituary.

Julianne Etcheverry

Julianne Etcheverry, 57 (August 19) — goldsmith and jewelry designer. Click here for full obituary.

South Lincoln “welcome center” under construction

Work has begun on a visitor-friendly “pocket park” at the entrance to the residents’ commuter lot.

Construction has begun on a small outdoor welcome center in South Lincoln next to the entrance to the resident commuter rail lot, and officials are seeking more input on the area through an online survey.

The “pocket park” is one of the projects suggested by the South Lincoln Planning and Implementation Committee (SLPIC) to revitalize the area near the train station/mall and make it more welcoming to visitors and pedestrians. When complete, the park will have a welcome kiosk with maps, a bike repair system, bike racks and a granite bench donated by the DPW.

After the pocket park/welcome center is completed, a wayfinding system will be installed that will lead pedestrians and cyclists from there to Drumlin Farm, with stops along the way at Codman Farm and Codman Estates. Future funding will allow the town to expand this system and complete Phase II of the pocket park/welcome center, which will include pavers to replace stone dust as well as a a trail connection to Codman Farm.

An image of the signs that will be installed in South Lincoln.

As it thinks about ways to encourage a vibrant, mixed use, pedestrian-oriented village center in South Lincoln, SLPIC is asking residents to offer their opinions about various design options. This survey includes summaries and questions on a series of images of things like business frontage, housing and business architecture, bike and pedestrian routes, signage, and more. The deadline for participating in the survey is Sunday, Sept. 30.

Part of SLPIC’s work includes developing a proposed zoning bylaw amendment to encourage mixed-use, transit-oriented development that can accommodate a variety of housing choices. The group is also conducting a feasibility study of the town-owed Department of Public Works site on Lewis Street for look at opportunities to consolidate public works functions that could free up some or all of the four-acre site for a potential housing development.

With the help of state grants, the town has already completed improvements to some sidewalks and roadside paths and installed a new pedestrian island on Route 126 at Lincoln Road. The town is hoping for more funding to make several improvements to the train stops on either side of Lincoln Road.

Public hearings coming up

Planning Board

There will be a public hearing on Tuesday, Sept. 25 at 7 p.m. on two proposed changes to the zoning bylaws relating to marijuana businesses in Lincoln. Residents will be asked to vote on the measures at a Special Town Meeting on October 20.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of the Appeals will hold a public hearing on Thursday, Oct. 4 at 7:30 p.m. to hear and to act on the following petitions:

  • Myra Ferguson, 14 Baker Bridge Rd., for transfer of a special permit for an accessory apartment.
  • Richard Hermann, 25 Bypass Rd., for renewal of a special permit for an accessory apartment.
  • Alex MacLean, 23 Conant Rd., for renewal of a special permit for an accessory apartment.