Lifesaving Museum’s annual Head of the Weir rowing race hits the water on Saturday

/

Hull Lifesaving Museum’s 38th annual Head of the Weir River Race is a celebration of the estuary at the height of its fall beauty and the fabulous array of the region’s open water rowers. As many as 60 boats jockey for position racing out of the narrow estuary and onto open water, traveling from the headwaters of the Weir River downstream, past Bumpkin Island, across Hull Bay, to the museum’s Windmill Point Boathouse at Hull Gut.

This year’s Head of the Weir race has been rescheduled to October 5 (from October 12) to avoid any conflict with Yom Kippur.

The race begins at 12:30 p.m.; check-in is from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Steamboat Wharf, 48 George Washington Boulevard. Entry fee is $45 per person. There is no day-of-event registration: Online registration ends on Friday, October 4 at noon. Register online at https://www.hulllifesavingmuseum.org/openwaterrowing.html#weir

A highly contested five-and-a-half miler, the Weir draws coxed youth and adult rowers in gigs, single and double livery and workboats, currachs, and ocean shells, as well as experienced kayakers. In the “head of the river” format, boats kick off the starting line at closely timed intervals, and times are collated at the finish to determine the race winners. The Weir is an exceptionally exciting race and a great spectator event, featuring more than 200 of the region’s finest rowers from all over New England and New York.

Please remember that due to worsening erosion of the marsh, the traditional starting line has been moved. All vessels must now launch at Steamboat Wharf and row to the starting line, 1-3/4 miles. High tide is scheduled for 1:36 p.m. on that date.

The traditional after-race party will be held at the boathouse, and all race competitors are welcome to nourishing chow and refreshments at the Boathouse Bistro. After competitors have gone through the line, friends, family, and spectators are welcome to enjoy the offerings with a $5 suggested donation.

Visit www.hulllifesavingmuseum.org for all the details regarding registration, launching, and parking. You can email your questions to info@hulllifesavingmuseum.org or call 781-925-5433.

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.

© 2024 The Hull Times. All rights reserved.

Volunteers needed to collect, record beach trash and debris during Coastsweep on October 6

/

The Coastsweep beach cleanup is being planned for next month on the town-owned section of Nantasket Beach. Join the other volunteers at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, October 6 to collect trash and debris from the beach.

Since 1987, thousands of volunteers in Massachusetts have removed hundreds of tons of trash and other marine debris through Coastal Zone Management’s annual Coastsweep cleanup. This year, Austin Roberts, a member of Hull’s surfing community, is coordinating a Coastsweep cleanup on the town-owned section of the beach on Sunday, October 6 at 9:30 a.m. Roberts learned to surf on Nantasket Beach and says that coordinating this beach cleanup is his way of giving back to the community. This year, Hull’s Beach Management Advisory Committee also is supporting this endeavor.

As a volunteer at a cleanup, you will remove trash and debris from the beach and record the types and quantities of material you find. This data will be used to better understand what types of materials are littering the beaches all over the world. All volunteers are encouraged to wear protective gloves while collecting trash. Disposable gloves and trash bags will be provided, but gardening gloves, other reusable gloves and buckets for trash also work well, so feel free to bring your own to cut down on waste. This year the meet-up spot will be at A Street and Beach Avenue. Tacos will be served to volunteers, compliments of the South Shore Taco Guy.

Sign up to volunteer by contacting Roberts, 774-222-0020 or austintroberts23@gmail.com.

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.

© 2024 The Hull Times. All rights reserved.

Affordable housing committee to focus on education, partnerships before applying for CPA funds

/

By Carol Britton Meyer

The Affordable Housing Committee’s special projects subcommittee met Tuesday night to discuss whether to recommend that full board request Community Preservation Act funding before next Monday’s deadline, and ultimately decided to focus on building partnerships and educating the public before submitting an application.

The first step in the Community Preservation Committee’s FY25 application process requires a submission by September 30. Eligible requests in the community-housing category include funds to acquire, create, preserve, and support affordable housing.

Subcommittee members Cynthia Koebert (who also is the AHC chair), Bob Pezzini, and Bob Pahl shared ideas for potential requests – ranging from a market study of Hull’s rental inventory to identifying tax credit opportunities for improving the housing stock and increasing Hull’s affordable housing count to a loan or grant program to assist single-family owner-occupants create accessible dwelling units.

Subcommittee members also discussed creating an Affordable Housing Trust Fund and developing partnerships with groups such as Habitat for Humanity to create more publicly supported affordable housing in town, which exists primarily in the units managed by the housing authority on Atlantic Avenue and on C and D Streets.

“These partnerships are very important,” Koebert said.

Creating a trust fund to manage the town’s community preservation affordable housing money would require town meeting approval.

Following an hour-long discussion, the subcommittee decided to recommend the AHC continue to focus on town-owned parcels, affordable housing education, and expanding its capacity through partnerships and the creation of a municipal affordable housing trust fund prior to requesting Community Preservation Act funding.

Building expertise, partnerships, and support

Members of the subcommittee who have reviewed the statewide Community Preservation Coalition’s searchable database of community preservation projects noted the importance of building sufficient expertise, partnerships, and support prior to taking on such initiatives. AHC members also observed that many of the CPA applicants were municipal affordable housing trust funds. Visit www.communitypreservation.org for more information.

After discussing these possibilities, the conversation turned to focusing on creating a community engagement process to support development of affordable housing on town-owned land and to educate the public about what affordable housing is and is not.

With regard to education, there is an overall misunderstanding in the community about the meaning of affordable housing, Pahl said.

Koebert noted that the Citizens Housing and Planning Association awards municipal engagement initiative grants. The AHC applied unsuccessfully before due to a lack of funding, but the process may be reopening.

The underlying goal is to create more deed-restricted affordable units that would count toward the state’s 10 percent affordable housing threshold. Hull is currently at about 1.5%, which Koebert said she considers to be “close to zero.”

Not reaching or exceeding that threshold makes such communities vulnerable to comprehensive permits (more commonly known as Chapter 40B projects), which allow developers to circumvent most local regulations in exchange for an affordable housing component.

Town-owned parcels considered

Last March, three vacant town-owned parcels were identified as potentially suitable for the development of affordable housing by two consultants in a grant-funded town land feasibility study. Only parcels larger than one-half acre were considered.

The lot next to St. Nicholas Church on Spring Street (formerly the Hull Village School) and the parking lot at XYZ Streets are considered more suitable than a parcel of land on Gosnold Street consisting of several lots that could be combined. The Gosnold property is wooded and would require removal of a large number of trees, while the other parcels are flat and already cleared, select board member Irwin Nesoff, the board’s liaison to the AHC, told The Hull Times at that time.

Working with the AHC, South Shore Habitat for Humanity earlier identified two smaller town-owned parcels of less than one-half acre – at the corner of N Street and Nantasket Avenue and on F Street near Cadish Avenue. No decisions have been made.

The AHC’s intent, Koebert said, is to engage the community from the beginning of the process before the town issues a request for proposals, to explain the meaning of affordable housing and for citizens to share what they envision affordable housing to be and their ideas about affordable housing.

‘We have to find ways to be more successful’

Koebert said she knows enough about affordable housing “to get frustrated that it takes so long and it’s so complicated and complex. We have to find ways to be more successful.”

She also expressed concern about communication issues between the AHC and managers of the Hull Housing Authority properties, who are not based in town. Jim Richman is the authority’s liaison to the AHC.

Resident Christopher Sweeney said he is concerned about how long it is taking to develop affordable housing.

“We have plenty of town-owned property,” he said. “All we have to do is [collaborate] with Habitat for Humanity [or another organization], and they can build it.”

At its October 8 meeting, the AHC will host guests from neighboring towns that have affordable housing trust funds to learn more about their experiences.

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.

© 2024 The Hull Times. All rights reserved.

Light plant, Chamber already planning for second annual holiday decorating campaign

/

By Carol Britton Meyer

 

When it comes to decorations, it’s not too early to get into the holiday spirit!

Hull Municipal Light Plant and the Hull Nantasket Chamber of Commerce are again sponsoring the “Light Up Hull” adopt-a-lamppost holiday light campaign.

The second annual program provides Hull residents and businesses with an opportunity to show their “Holiday Hull” spirit by helping to beautify 33 lantern-style lampposts in the Surfside area – from Water Street to Anastos Corner –with lighted garlands and bows, and also double-sided lighted wreaths and festive lighting in the Kenberma shopping district for a donation ranging from $25 to $500.

“We’re excited to broaden our footprint this year after last year’s success with the support of the light board, town manager, and the Nantasket Hull Chamber of Commerce … offering folks the chance to suggest other places that might be suitable for a small display,” Hull Municipal Light Plant Administrative Assistant Anne Finley told The Hull Times.

Individuals, families, and businesses that make a $150 tax-deductible contribution will have their names displayed as sponsors on a lamppost for the 2024 holiday season.

There are also supporting patron opportunities – $25 donation, Red Level sponsor; Silver Level, $250; and Gold Level, $500. Red Level sponsors will have their names displayed on a gift tag. Silver and Gold Level sponsors have the option of putting their donation toward lighting a pre-approved additional town location of their choice, such as the library – also with personalized gift tags – Finley explained.

Campaign supporters and sponsors will be featured in local advertising and social media and on an appreciation certificate displayed at town hall and at the light plant, along with an invitation to, and recognition at, a special holiday event.

LIGHT TOUCH. The Hull Municipal Light Plant and the Hull Nantasket Chamber of Commerce are again sponsoring the ‘Light Up Hull’ adopt-a-lamppost holiday decorating campaign. The effort will focus on wreaths and lighting in both the Surfside and Kenberma business districts.

Email HMLP@town.hull.ma.us for further details or to become a sponsor or supporter.

“The donations associated with the decorating campaign pay for the wreaths and the cost of keeping the holiday lights lit throughout the season,” Light Board Chair Patrick Cannon told The Hull Times.

Inserts about the holiday campaign will be included with upcoming electricity bills and have been sent out to last year’s contributors.

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.

© 2024 The Hull Times. All rights reserved.

In the Sport-light - Roundup of news about Hull athletes

/

Compiled by Matt Haraden

• Girls 5/6 Soccer has broken the ice, with a win over Kingston 2 in the pounding rain and wind. Goals were scored by Magnolia Harbin, Frankie Rockett, and Reese Irby. Hailey MacLeod also recorded an assist. Sydney O’Brien and Deirdre Flaherty were in net for Hull, both stopping countless shots and shutting down opponents’ attacks.

DOGGED DETERMINATION. Christian Truglia takes the ball downfield in the Hull High Pirates’ game against Rockland earlier this week. After celebrating back-to-back wins, the varsity boys soccer team lost, 5-0, to the Bulldogs, who are in a higher division than Hull. [Jennifer Whelan photo]

• After coming off back-to-back wins, Hull Boys Soccer came back down to Earth, falling to the higher division Rockland Bulldogs. The Pirates battled well in the first half, but with sickness and injuries mounting, the second half was all one-way traffic for the strong Rockland squad as the Pirates tired. The team came up short against another higher division team, East Bridgewater, at home on Wednesday. A goal by Oliver Szabo tied the score with 25 minutes left in the first, but the Vikings took control and opened up a 4-1 lead at the half. EB added another goal to finish up on top, 5-1. The boys’ next two games are on the road, first against the Norwell Clippers at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 1, and then against Sandwich at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, October 4.

• Hull High Girls Soccer defeated Rockland, 2-1, at home, improving to 6-0-1 on the year. Both goals came from Elly Thomas. The Pirates then hit the road to play East Bridgewater on Wednesday. The team took an early 2-1 lead, but the Vikings came back to tie the score before Hull went ahead again, 4-2. East Bridgewater played strong and tied the score again, 4-4, which ended up being the final score. The next varsity soccer match is against Norwell at home on Tuesday, October 1 at 5:30 p.m., followed by a road game against Sandwich on Friday, October 4 at 5:30 p.m. The JV girls play at 4 p.m. on both of those days.

• Coach Jaime Standridge and the Hull High girls basketball staff and players will lead a five-week shooting camp beginning on October 5. The camp is designed to focus on proper technique and following through, instill a shooter’s mentality, and will include take-home drills, shooting competitions, and prizes. The camp will be held on Saturdays in the Hull High gymnasium between October 5 and November 2; Grades K-5 will be from 4-5 p.m. and Grades 6-8 will be from 5:30-6:30 p.m. A camp T-shirt is included in the $75 fee per participant, and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Emma Ryan Memorial Fund. Email HullGirlsHoops@gmail.com or scan the QR code below for information and to register.

• Hull High Football defeated Holbrook, 41-6, on Friday, September 20. Lawrence Bodley scored his first varsity touchdown off an 18-yard catch. Teagan Bellew got his first varsity score as well, running it in from 15 yards out. Other touchdowns include a 50-yard Luke Dunham run and a 28-yard Isaiah Green catch. Nathan O’Hare had a 50-yard touchdown run as well as a 38-yard fumble recovery, leading to a defensive touchdown. Thomas Blake, Mason DelGallo, and Nick Perry all had strong games on defense. The Pirates play next on Friday, September 27, hosting Boston English, in the annual Homecoming Game at Finlayson Field. Game time is 6 p.m.; senior parents and players will be introduced beginning at 5:45 p.m. Homecoming ceremonies take place at halftime, and after the game, it’s Alumni Night at the Nantasket Beach Salt Water Club. Former Pirates are invited to gather after the game at the club to celebrate memories, both old and new. Next weekend, the team heads to the North Shore to face off against Kipp Academy at Manning Field in Lynn on Saturday, October 5. That noontime game is a rematch of the 2022 Division 8 Super Bowl, which the Pirates won, 27-6.

• Coaches and Super Fans – We need your help to report the scores and results of the latest events in Hull’s sports world! Please send local sports news and photos to sports@hulltimes.com. Deadline is Tuesday at 8 p.m. When providing details of the games or races, please be sure to include the sport/team, the players’ full names, and the final scores. When sending photos, names of those pictured are greatly appreciated, as well as who should get credit for taking the photo. 

Thank you for your help!

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.

© 2024 The Hull Times. All rights reserved.

Volunteers collect tons of trash, marine debris during week-long cleanup of Boston Harbor Islands

/

In a landmark environmental restoration initiative, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation and the Center for Coastal Studies led a historic cleanup of five key islands in the Boston Harbor. This once-in-a-generation project aimed to help restore the natural beauty and ecological health of Great Brewster, Middle Brewster, Outer Brewster, Calf, and Lovells islands.

CLEAN HARBORS. Hull teachers Heather Weber (left) and Sheila Blair (right) assembled their summer science and Green Team students to join dozens of other volunteers participating in a recent cleanup of five Boston Harbor islands. The group sorted debris and combed through scores of bags to separate recyclables, Styrofoam, and other flotsam and jetsam from the tons of material collected and brought to the staging area at Pemberton Pier for eventual disposal. [Courtesy photos]

This effort is the culmination of nearly two years of planning and organizing during which DCR and CCS brought together the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service, and Boston Harbor Now for a historic public-private partnership. These organizations are focused on removing substantial marine debris from the Boston Harbor Islands to help restore critical coastal bird nesting areas and enhanced ecological health of the islands. This project also helped revitalize recreational areas on the islands for residents and visitors and ensure their sustainability for future generations.

“The Boston Harbor Islands are precious natural, cultural, and recreational resources that are visited by more than half a million people a year and this historic cleanup represents a major milestone in our collective effort to protect and preserve them for generations to come,” said DCR Commissioner Brian Arrigo. “We are proud to lead this transformative effort alongside our dedicated partners… This initiative reflects our commitment to the environmental health of these islands and our belief in the power of collaboration to drive meaningful change.”

“The Boston Harbor Islands are unique in the Gulf of Maine, located in the back yard of New England’s largest city,” said Laura Ludwig, director of the Center for Coastal Studies’ Marine Debris & Plastics Program. “Our joint effort is not just about cleaning up debris; it’s about collecting data, finding value in the material where possible, and disposing of all items responsibly. A collaborative approach ensures that our collective expertise and resources are effectively applied for the benefit of wildlife and surrounding communities.”

Volunteers during the week-long effort included three members of the Hull Rowing Club and Hull High’s Green Team, an environmental service group. Pemberton Pier was used as a staging area, and many in the community came together to contribute to the cleanup, according to volunteer Hilary Moll of the rowing club.

She said that St. Nicholas Church in Hull Village donated its kitchen to prepare meals for the entire week. A chef cooked the food and it was brought over to Peddocks Island on a boat provided by Hull Lifesaving Museum Executive Director Mike McGurl. She added that one night, McGurl and the Hull rowers rowed the chef and the prepared dinner across the Gut.

The cleanup includes several funding sources, including a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Marine Debris grant, with funding provided by the Inflation Reduction Act. This $2.7 million grant was awarded to CCS for a multi-year coastal cleanup project, a portion of which will be used for the Boston Harbor Islands cleanup. In addition to the CCS grant, DCR is providing $150,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funding and an additional $35,000 from DCR’s operational budget to cover the cost of the commercial vessels and heavy equipment rental to remove and transport industrial debris. USFWS is providing $80,000 through the Natural Resource Damage Assessment and Restoration program.

The cleanup took place over a one-week period from September 13-22, and many volunteers camped out on the islands.

“The National Parks Service is dedicated to preserving the unique landscapes and ecosystems of our national treasures,” said National Parks of Boston Superintendent Michael Creasey. “This cleanup underscores our commitment to safeguarding these irreplaceable resources and demonstrates the strength of our partnerships in achieving impactful and sustainable results.”

The cleanup addressed a diverse array of marine debris, including dock, pier, and bridge timbers, skidder tires, lobster traps, ropes, nets, buoys, metal and fiberglass boat pieces, plastic float components, rebar, plastic foam, and other plastic waste. Volunteers strategically staged debris for removal using barges, cranes, and boats. Efforts will be made to divert debris from landfills by exploring creative reuse – some items may be repurposed by artists, builders, fishermen, students, and researchers, or delivered to recycling centers specializing in wood, metal, and fishing gear.

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.

© 2024 The Hull Times. All rights reserved.

Select Board changes Hull’s legal approach by hiring law firm as town counsel

/

By Carol Britton Meyer 

The select board named Mead, Talerman & Costa, LLC to serve as Hull’s new town counsel for a one-year term on a unanimous vote this week, following two separate one-hour interviews with MTC attorneys and also lawyers representing KP Law, PC. 

A screening committee had already narrowed the number of candidates to two. 

Whether the town will pay MTC a flat fee of $14,000 a month, a monthly “hybrid” fee of $9,000 a month, or pay for services at an hourly rate has not yet been determined. 

MTC replaces longtime Town Counsel James Lampke, who will assist with the transition. Lampke was a town employee; the new firm will be paid as a contractor. 

“We heard from two strong firms. Either would be a good choice,” Town Manager Jennifer Constable said. 

Mead, Talerman & Costa, with offices in Newburyport, Millis, and New Bedford, has expertise in general municipal law, land use and zoning, energy and environmental matters, labor issues, and residential and commercial real estate law, and serves as town counsel in dozens of Massachusetts communities, as well as special municipal counsel to others. 

Attorney Jay Talerman explained MTC’s team-based approach, while Brian Winner, the primary contact for the town, and co-primary Kate Feodoroff talked about the importance of good communication, accessibility to the attorneys working for the town, and proactively providing guidance along the way to avoid litigation if at all possible. 

“If chosen, we will be here to learn from you and what works best for the town,” Winner said during the interview. 

Attorneys Lauren Goldberg, Gregg Corbo, and Roger Smerage represented KP Law during the interview. 

KP represents more than one-third of the cities and towns in the Commonwealth as city solicitor or town counsel, and provides special counsel services. 

Dedicated attorneys 

Both firms offered dedicated attorneys to work on a regular basis with the town – with assistance provided by other associates in specialized fields – and training seminars. 

MTC also offers office hours for town officials to become acquainted with its attorneys “and to help [them] navigate the complexities of town government,” Feodoroff explained. 

MTC represents a number of coastal communities. 

“Coastal issues are near and dear to our hearts,” Talerman said. 

Feodoroff has experience dealing with labor and employment issues, while Winner has a background in environmental law and working with local, state, and federal agencies. 

MTC also has experience in dealing with railroad bed, beach, and dune-related issues, has its own real estate department, and will keep the town apprised about new state and federal laws and legislation that could affect Hull. 

‘We are approachable’ 

“We would be there and approachable,” Feodoroff said before the vote. “We really love being municipal lawyers. Attending meetings is not a drag. Of course it’s work, but we make the choices that we do because we really like what we do.” 

MTC will also provide assistance with town meeting and special town meeting preparations and have a presence there. 

All five board members agreed that the MTC fee structure was the most beneficial to the town as well as the fewer number of communities served by MTC, although a significant amount, compared with KP Law, which select board member Greg Grey felt was “a better fit to respond to our needs.” 

Constable said that the MTC fee structure also appealed to her because “it gives us some degree of certainty in our budgeting. My office has a financial responsibility to the town, and this is an important factor.” 

‘A big bang for the buck’ 

Select board member Brian McCarthy noted that two of the MTC attorneys present at the meeting were former employees of KP Law “and took that experience to MTC,” a fact that was mentioned during the interview. 

“We’re getting a big bang for the buck,” he said. 

Due to the MTC team’s experience in this field, Constable said she doesn’t foresee the need to hire an additional land use counsel. 

Board member Jerry Taverna noted that one of the payment options – a flat fee of $14,000 a month – “might seem like a lot, but that comes to $168,000 a year, an amount that wouldn’t cover the cost of hiring one lawyer” to serve as town counsel. 

“If the attorney we hired had to work the hours that Jim Lampke worked, I figure the total to be about half a million dollars [a year],” Grey said. “Jim put in 2,000 hours a year. He went above and beyond because he was part of the fabric of our community. He is irreplaceable.” 

The other two fee options include a hybrid rate of $9,000 a month, and a traditional hourly arrangement. 

The flat fee includes virtually all general services (excepting labor-related) and substantially all routine litigation. The hybrid fee includes virtually all general services, excluding litigation matters, which are billed at an hourly rate of $225 per hour. 

The traditional hourly fee arrangement would bill all matters on an hourly basis. No additional charges are assessed for services provided by the firm’s paralegals, staff, or other personnel or for brief consultations before a meeting, for instance. 

Contract will be revisited in a year 

Constable said the financial model will be determined once the contract is signed. The contract will be revisited in a year. 

KP Law proposed town counsel services at the single, blended hourly rate of $245 through June 30, 2025, and also a retainer option, with varying hourly rates for specialty legal services. 

The MTC team is looking forward to a smooth transition. 

“We know Jim and really respect him,” Talerman said. “We have a great line of communication, and he will provide updates on [all the issues facing the town.” 

This is “quite a change for Hull,” Constable said. “Jim has been town counsel for decades and then some.” 

Hull Community Television will replay on its cable channels and on-demand at hulltv.net. 

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.

© 2024 The Hull Times. All rights reserved.

Economic Development Committee hears bus service update, considers promotion ideas

/

By Carol Britton Meyer 

During a one-hour meeting that covered a lot of ground, the Economic Development Committee heard an encouraging update about the year-round MBTA 714 bus and discussed holding off-season events for residents and visitors, a collaborative website to promote the town, and the creation of a handbook on how to open a business in Hull. 

Director of Community Development & Planning Chris DiIorio and EDC Chair Jason McCann will first discuss the guide idea – which was suggested by EDC member Jim Pitrolo – with Town Manager Jennifer Constable, a past EDC chair, to flesh out the concept and to consider how the committee could be involved if the proposal moves forward. 

Further 714 bus updates and more information about the guide concept and off-season events, such as spring and fall festivals and a winter chowderfest similar to activities offered by other seaside communities – which will be explored by EDC alternates Jennifer Mullin and school committee representative Liliana Hedrick in the meantime – will be shared at the next EDC meeting on Monday, October 7, at 6 p.m. 

Hull Redevelopment Authority representative to the committee Bartley Kelly noted that an application process is outlined on www.hra02045.com for people with an interest in hosting events on HRA property. 

Bus Route 714 update 

McCann provided an update about recent productive meetings between Hull representatives – Town Manager Jennifer Constable, DiIorio, and McCann – and MBTA officials about enhancing the bus service. 

The bus system, operated by a new contractor who is interested in making improvements in response to feedback from the town, connects the Pemberton Point ferry to the 220 bus at the Hingham Depot on Station Street, with stops made along the way. 

“It seems as though the MBTA is more open to discussions [with the town] now,” DiIorio said. “The fact that the former bus didn’t look like a bus and other issues that have come up in the past are now being addressed.” 

EDC member and Hull Nantasket Chamber of Commerce President Steven Greenberg is hopeful that the town can demonstrate to the MBTA the need for additional bus and ferry service in Hull based on a vibrant economy and that this might be a real possibility. 

“It’s up to us to make that happen,” he said. 

Greenberg also noted that the Chamber and town officials will be hosting a “walk-through” with the MBTA in October. 

While ridership numbers aren’t high at this point, an increase is expected now that there is a regular marked MBTA bus in service on the Hull route, Charlie Cards and tickets can be used to pay bus fares, possible expansion of service is on the table, and discussions are under way about creating fixed Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant bus stops to replace the current flagging system. 

“The MBTA isn’t a big fan of flagging,” DiIorio said. “It’s not the safest way to operate.” 

Visit www.mbta.com/schedules/714/line for information on the Bus 714 Pemberton Point-Station Street, Hingham schedule, including recent changes, a schedule finder that allows riders to choose a direction and an origin stop and to access schedule information and real-time departure predictions, as well as a PDF of schedules and route maps. 

“This is a really useful tool,” McCann said, while encouraging residents to share this information with family and friends. 

The MBTA is considering an online 714 bus survey encouraging residents and local businesses to provide feedback about the service with the intention of “making adjustments based on the results -- obviously not all of them!” said McCann, who plans with DiIorio to follow up about the survey with the transit authority. He will share details with the community as they become available and encourages all riders to participate. 

In other business at the meeting 

EDC alternate Irena Davy talked about the Hull Next website she created and expressed an interest in providing a platform promoting Hull in partnership with the EDC and the Chamber. “The website grew from three to 47 pages in the past two years,” she said. EDC members will explore the website and provide feedback. “I do this [website design] for a living, but it’s absolutely a labor of love.” 

The website features “Moving to Hull,” “Old World Hull,” “Visiting Hull,” “Hull neighborhoods,” Hull attractions,” “Hull Real Estate,” and “Who We Are” links. 

“We’re looking for a singular [online] access point for the Town of Hull for tourists looking for what to do, where to go, what’s open [on a particular] day, restaurants, kayak and bicycle rentals, [and other information],” Greenberg said. “The Chamber has been considering this, and hullnext.com [could be a] big part of future strategy.” 

The idea of finding an effective way to create an inventory of vacant commercial spaces that are for rent or for sale in an effort to attract more businesses to Hull was floated, as well as consulting other communities’ EDCs about how they make such information available and “if they feel [doing so] is worth the effort,” DiIorio suggested, noting that regular updates would be required. 

Davy expressed the thought that vacant “dilapidated buildings don’t create an inviting place,” while acknowledging that progress in this area has been made in recent years. 

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.

© 2024 The Hull Times. All rights reserved.

In the Sport-light - Roundup of news about Hull athletes

/

Compiled by Matt Haraden 

ON POINT. Hull High soccer Captain Elly Thomas had a banner week, as she was named to The Boston Globe’s list of High School Players of the Week and scored her 100th point during Monday’s 7-2 victory over Abington. [Courtesy photo] 

• Hull High Girls Soccer players Elly Thomas and Fallon Ryan were named to The Boston Globe’s list of High School Players of the Week, and Brianna Ramos was named the High School Female Athlete of the Week by The Patriot Ledger. More than 20,500 people voted for Ramos, a freshman on the varsity team who scored two goals in the Pirates’ win over Mashpee. This week, Fallon Ryan is up against 24 other contenders for the honor, while Thomas celebrated her own milestone during Monday’s 7-2 victory over Abington, as she scored her 100th point! The Pirates defeated Carver, 6-0, on Tuesday – the third shutout of the season for goalkeeper Montana Alibrandi. The Pirates host East Bridgewater on Friday, September 20 at 6 p.m., with the JV game at 4:30 p.m., and then play Rockland at home on Monday at 5:30 p.m. (JV at 4 p.m.) before traveling to East Bridgewater on Wednesday at 4 p.m. 

• Boys 3/4 Soccer Team 1 tied Plympton, 5-5, this past weekend. The team, consisting of Owen Bilodeau, Liam Palermo, Luke Panetta,  Harrison Jones, Rhys Siegrist, Henry Lidington-Trubia, Luca Dibley, North Saforrian, Finn Saforrian, Rocko Truglia, Sawyer Markowitz, and Casey Resnick, played well in the nail-biter, back-and-forth game. 3/4 Team 2 defeated Plympton, 3-1, on Saturday, September 14. Jordan Dunn scored two goals. Gibran Succar scored one goal with an assist from Andy Michaelides. Landgon Walper and Declan Fahey both made many saves while taking turns as goalies. Samuel Chiba was a powerhouse on both offense and defense. Now 2-0 on the year, the team’s next game is on Saturday, September 21 at noon in Halifax. 5/6 Soccer beat Pembroke this weekend with a final score of 6-2. Will McCarthy played strong on offense, scoring three goals. Slava Rhzevskii scored two goals and Tomas Bromberg-Issokson scored one goal. Jacob Greenberg was excellent in midfield, helping to assist in at least two of the goals with beautiful crossover passes. Reefe Markowitz and Killian Kelly both were amazing in goal. The team’s next game is in Duxbury on Saturday, September 21 at 1:45 p.m. 

• Girls 3/4 Soccer split their first two games with a win over Carver, 3-1, and a tough loss to Halifax, 7-3. The loss came with stellar goalkeeping by Thalita Nascimento and Lydia Caparrotta, who combined for 28 saves. Willa Britton scored all six goals for the Pirates, with assists from teammates Ellie Caparrotta, Rae Rockett, Maisie Handrahan, and Addie Chalifoux. Cate Mulvihill, Mackenzie Deegan, and Meara Gilroy held Carver to one goal with their fierce defense, while Laila Dolan, Viola Pearson, and Eleanor Reilly attacked Halifax to try to change the result. Girls 5/6 took on Norwell Team 2 at home, losing 5-0. Standouts for the home team were Sydney O’Brien and Ruby D’Errico, splitting their time in net. Unfortunately for such a hot day on the field, the Pirates were frozen out in their efforts. Girls 7/8 lost, 6-1, to Duxbury on Saturday, September 14. Payton Dunn had Hull’s lone goal off a beautiful corner kick from Aubrey Littlefield. Ava and Stella Palermo had strong games at forward and midfield. The team faces Cohasset in its next game. 

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL? Although the Hull High football team came up short against South Shore Tech last week, hopes are high for the remainder of the season. This Friday, September 20, the Pirates head to Holbrook and then will return on the 27th for the annual Homecoming Game against Boston English at 6 p.m. It also will be Alumni Night, as former Pirates are invited to gather after the game at the Nantasket Beach Salt Water Club to celebrate memories, both old and new. [Sean Baggett photos] 

• Hull High Football fell to South Shore Technical High School on Friday, September 13, with a final score of 36-14. Luke Dunham had a touchdown run and pass, connecting with Toryn Ciulla-Hall for the reception. John Truglia played well on both sides of the ball. The team will travel to play Holbrook on Friday, September 20, and then will return home on September 27 to play Boston English at 6 p.m. This will be the team’s Homecoming Game and Alumni Night – former Pirates are invited to gather after the game at the Nantasket Beach Salt Water Club to celebrate memories, both old and new. 

PHOTO BY NICOLE TOWNSEND.

• The Hull High Varsity Boys Soccer team exploded for an 8-0 win over Carver on Tuesday night at home. The boys took the lead through a goal from Max Day and followed up with the first varsity goal by Finn Walsh. Although Carver was tough, the goals continued to come for the Pirates, who were playing at top of their game. Another goal came from Max Day to make it three, with Nick McDonald putting a corner in to make it four. This was followed by two long-range bullets from Oliver Szabo and Christian Truglia, and the scoring was completed by two fine efforts from JT Gould. Overall, an excellent showing before a large home crowd. Matthew Thomas made his starting debut in goal, while on defense, Jonah Whelan, Max Lofgren, Sam Tuchmann, and Nate Tiani stopped everything. Freshmen Patrick Hughes, Cameron Her, Christian Nolan, and Iktan Guzman played their part on the field as well. The next game is at Rockland on Monday, September 23 at 4 p.m., and then the team comes back home to play East Bridgewater on Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. 

• Coaches and Super Fans – We need your help to report the scores and results of the latest events in Hull’s sports world! Please send local sports news and photos to sports@hulltimes.com. Deadline is Tuesday at 8 p.m. When providing details of the games or races, please be sure to include the sport/team, the players’ full names, and the final scores. When sending photos, names of those pictured are greatly appreciated, as well as who should get credit for taking the photo.  

Thank you for your help! 

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.

© 2024 The Hull Times. All rights reserved.

Two weeks of early voting for November 5 election begins October 19

/

By Carol Britton Meyer 

In-person, vote-by-mail, absentee, and early voting are four options available to Hull’s registered voters for the November 5 presidential election. 

In-person voting for all precincts will take place at Hull High School, 180 Main St., from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day. 

The select board this week approved hours for early voting at Hull Town Hall, 253 Atlantic Ave., upon the recommendation of Town Clerk Lori West. 

Week one 

• Saturday, October 19: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

• Monday, October 21: 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 

• Tuesday, October 22: 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 

• Wednesday, October 23: 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 

• Thursday, October 24: 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 

Week two 

• Saturday, October 26: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. 

• Monday, October 28: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

• Tuesday, October 29: 8:30 a.m.  to 4:30 p.m. 

• Wednesday, October 30: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

• Thursday, October 31: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

• Friday, November 1: 8 a.m. to Noon 

The deadline to apply for the presidential/state election vote-by-mail ballot is October 29 at 5 p.m. Visit www.town.hull.ma.us/town-clerk for details.. 

The ballot return deadline is Election Day by 8 p.m. if returned in person or  by drop box. 

If returned by domestic mail, the deadline is 5 p.m. on November 8 (must be postmarked by Election Day). 

If returned by mail from outside the United States, the deadline is  5 p.m. on November 15 (must be postmarked by Election Day). 

The deadline to register to vote in the November 5 election is Saturday, October 26. To register to vote, update your address within Hull, or to change our party registration online, visit www.sec.state.ma.us/OVR/ or stop by the town clerk’s office during regular business hours to register in person. 

For full election and voter information, including how to request a vote-by-mail application, online voter registration, a Hull voter precinct map, and absentee ballot application,  visit www.town.hull.ma.us/town-clerk. This page also has links to the Secretary of State’s website to verify voter status and for online voter registration, absentee ballot, and other voting details. For a sample ballot, click here.

The state election ballot also features five questions, the text of which are available at this link. 

Like what you’re reading? Stay informed with a Hull Times subscription by clicking here.

Do you have an opinion to share? Click here to write a Letter to the Editor.

© 2024 The Hull Times. All rights reserved.