Pirates soccer, youth football teams continue winning ways in playoffs

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By Matt Haraden

There’s lots of great news to report this week, as several of Hull’s teams have been winning in post-season playoff action.

SUPER WIN. The Hull Youth Football A Team defeated Lower Cape by the score of 28-8 last weekend and will face off against West Bridgewater at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday in the Super Bowl, which will be played at Hull High School. [Courtesy photo]

Hull High Girls Soccer is moving on to the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association’s Round of 8 after defeating Francis Parker Charter School in a great game on Wednesday night at home. The Pirates finished on top, 4-1. This came after a 3-0 victory over Holbrook on Sunday, in which senior Veronica Fleming opened the scoring unassisted, followed by a goal from senior Sarah Duran, assisted by Fleming. The game’s third goal came from Maeve White off a feed from junior Fallon Ryan. After this week’s latest win, the team will host Hopedale in the next round on Friday, Nov. 10 at 1 p.m. at the high school field. Check our website, www.hulltimes.com and on social media for the results.

BOWL BOUND. Hull Youth Football’s C Team plays in the Old Colony Youth Football League’s Super Bowl this Sunday at Hull High, facing Sandwich at 10 a.m. [Courtesy photo]

The Hull High Boys Soccer team’s season ended on Thursday with a 7-0 loss to Westport, just days after upsetting #9 seed Hopedale on the road. In Monday’s game, the Pirates scored a goal 10 minutes from time, as Nick McDonald blasted a shot high into the net from a pass by Sean Walsh. Hull ended up on top with a 1-0 win and made local soccer history with this stellar tournament run. On Saturday, the Pirates defeated Holbrook, a 4-2 victory. The Pirates fell behind early, but were able to level the game on a nice shot from Thomas Brasil. Hull had a strong wind in the second half, with a shot from Jonah Whelan hitting the post. The Pirates were awarded a penalty kick and Nick McDonald stepped up to put the goal away and give Hull the lead. Holbrook bounced back quickly to tie it at two, but with 20 minutes left, McDonald scored a goal directly off a corner kick to give the Pirates the lead back. Max Day put away the insurance goal to seal the victory and put Hull into the next round. In addition to the players already mentioned, Teddy Hipp, Sam Tuchmann, Max Lofgren, Sean Walsh, Dillon Sliney Simpson, and Nate Tiani were outstanding on defense. Christian Truglia and Matt Angelis played strong in the midfield, and senior Robbie Casagrande led the team on the attacking side. JT Gould, Finn Walsh, Victor Healey, Jacob Freedman, and Patrick Hughes all had vital performances off the bench. Junior captain Oliver Szabo was injured for the game.

NETTING A WIN. The boys varsity soccer team continued its winning ways with a 1-0 win over Hopedale on the road this past Monday. Nick McDonald scored the game’s only goal, securing the win for the Pirates. [Jen Whelan photo]

In youth football news, the number-three ranked Hull Pirate Mites defeated number-two ranked West Bridgewater, 12-8, on Sunday, Nov. 5, clinching their spot in the Super Bowl. Chris Reilly scored two touchdowns, earning him the Old Colony Youth Football League game ball. John Dixon, Will McCarthy, Jordan Dunn, Zach Shea, and Juliano Andrade were strong on the defensive side of the ball, while Ada McMullen had the game-sealing interception. The Mites take on Sandwich at the high school field on Sunday, Nov. 12 at 10 a.m. The team’s coaches are Patrick McCarthy, Kevin Dunn, Eoin Kelly, and Steve Petrocelli.

Hull Pirates’ Midget Team also qualified for the Super Bowl with a 28-8 victory over Lower Cape on Sunday, Nov. 15. The Pirates scored 22 points in the first quarter, with Rocco Sestito breaking a 50-yard touchdown run on the second play of the game. Sestito also had a second touchdown and took home the game’s MVP award. The game’s second touchdown was scored by Ryan Delony and the third by PJ Rivieccio, with a successful two-point conversion attempt from Junior Conover. The game also saw strong play from Josh Gatto, Tom Blake, Harry Sestito, Jason Nguyen, Colby Lofgren, Bryce Preston, Luka Truglia, Iktan Mundo, and Declan Flaherty. This Sunday, Nov. 12, the Pirates will play West Bridgewater in the Super Bowl at Hull High School at 11:30 a.m. The team is coached by Domenico and Chico Sestito.

Thanksgiving tradition. All Hull High Pirates football alumni are invited to join the team on Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, Nov. 23, as the hometown team hosts the Cohasset Skippers for the annual Turkey Day game at Finlayson Field at Hull Gut 10 a.m. Alumni will lead the team onto the field to start this year’s installment of the annual rivalry off on the right foot.

Coaches and Super Fans! We can use your help to report the scores and results of the latest games 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.

Thank you for your help!

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Chamber sponsoring annual Holiday Showcase on Nov. 25

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 With the holiday season fast approaching and inflation rising, the Hull Nantasket Chamber of Commerce invites everyone to shop Small Business Saturday in Hull. Shop small, stay local, and gift creatively at the 2023 Hull Holiday Showcase. This in-person event is the best place to shop for unique and affordable holiday gifts, decorations, home decor, handmade items and local apparel, as well as coastal holiday arts and crafts created by local professional artisans.

This one-day event has a lot to offer and is free to attend. Help support local businesses and get a jump on holiday shopping by joining us at the Nantasket Beach Resort on Nov. 25 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The annual Hull Holiday Showcase is proudly produced by the Hull Nantasket Chamber of Commerce. For information, visit www.HullChamber.com.

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Pickleball upgrades, dog park study, historic church repairs considered for CPC funding

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By Carol Britton Meyer

Among the eight final applications for the current round of Community Preservation Act funding – totaling roughly $200,000 – are requests for repairs to the steeple of the historic Saint Nicholas United Methodist Church on Spring Street, a dog park feasibility study, Mariners Park enhancements, shade structures at several locations, and Hull Lifesaving Museum boathouse improvements.

A preliminary application requesting $100,000 to fund a Habitat for Humanity workforce homeownership opportunity proposed by the Affordable Housing Committee was withdrawn, pending completion of a grant-funded feasibility study to identify a suitable location for affordable housing in town.

Resurfacing of the pickleball courts at Kenberma, veterans grave markers at Hull Village Cemetery, and replacement of the Paragon Carousel incandescent light bulbs with LEDs are among the other proposals considered by the Community Preservation Committee this week.

Prior to the 2024 annual town meeting, the CPC will recommend some or all of these projects for voter consideration.

CPA funds, which come from a tax surcharge approved by Hull voters several years ago, may only be used for historic preservation, open space, community housing, and certain recreation projects.

The deadline for preliminary applications was Sept. 28 and the final deadline was Oct. 31.

If all the projects are approved, there will be a balance of about $400,000 in the town’s CPA fund, which Chair Rachel Kelly suggested might be used to help reduce the bond payments for the $1 million Village Fire Station restoration debt, and possibly other CPA-funded projects.

The funding for the eight proposals includes:

⦁ Pickleball courts resurfacing, $20,000: Proponent Paul Newman recommended taking a proactive approach, resurfacing the entire pickleball area rather than just the outside part, which is in rough shape, noting that it’s used by a “huge group” of people and that this would “protect this asset for the long-term.” The proposal was tabled temporarily until committee members visit the site.

• Dog park feasibility study ($10,000), since dogs aren’t allowed on Nantasket Beach for a good part of the year and people need a place to walk their pets. The study would gauge community interest in a dog park, identify the key elements of a park, review and recommend possible sites, and provide a cost assessment of construction and yearly maintenance.

⦁ St. Nicholas United Methodist Church steeple repairs, $27,000: Project proponent James Pitrolo explained that damage to the steeple was just recently discovered and that the church “has had no luck finding other funding for this work.”

⦁ Mariners Park enhancements, $20,000: This is a follow-up on resident Susan Short Green’s earlier proposal, “to add a little more color to the area and to provide people with a place to sit,” Director of Community Development & Planning Chris DiIorio explained. This proposal would provide funds to improve landscaping, install resin outdoor furniture such as benches and tables, and generally improve the user experience of the park.

The park was dedicated in 1967 to the memory of those in Hull whose occupations were connected to ships that sailed the seas, and then in 1991, members of the Nantasket Beach Salt Water Club added a bandstand.

⦁ Shade structures, $20,000: The town is seeking funding to install new shade structures around town next spring or new trees in several parks or other town-owned areas, such as the pickleball courts, Sullivan Field (also known as the Dust Bowl), James Avenue Wharf, and Mariners Park, among other sites. “We would like to improve the park and make it more comfortable for people to enjoy,” DiIorio said.

• Paragon Carousel lightbulbs, $25,000: Historical commission input will be sought about the proposal to replace the light bulbs on the Paragon Carousel structure with LED bulbs that are historically consistent but more energy efficient.

⦁ Grave markers at Hull Cemetery to commemorate Hull’s veterans, $7,700.

⦁ Boathouse restoration, $72,130: including upgrading the electrical service and completing the installation of a bathroom, with more information to come about which parts of the proposal are eligible for possible CPA funding.

As part of the St. Nicholas application, Hull Pride Co-Presidents Scott Helms and Dan Ambrose said, “This restoration project is meaningful to our LGBTQ+ community. St. Nicholas has been a welcoming and inclusive place for all residents, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. By contributing CPA funds to this project, we [would] not only preserve a historic icon but also send a powerful message of support to our LGBTQ+ community, reinforcing our commitment to an inclusive and diverse town.”

Project proponents intend to consult with the historical commission about the project.

CPC discussions of these proposals will continue in the months leading up to town meeting, where voters will have the final say.

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Residents propose solar-powered rapid transit, ‘eco-village,’ and dog park for HRA property

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By Dolores Sauca Lorusso

On Monday Oct. 30, the Hull Redevelopment Authority heard the final three presentations from citizens outlining possible uses of its land. Of the 20 citizen submissions, 10 pitches were given.

Judeth Van Hamm’s suggestion for the HRA property includes a solar-powered personal rapid transit system like this one…

Although the citizens who offered the other 10 proposals did not choose to give a formal presentation with a question-and-answer session, their ideas will still be considered by the HRA as members determine which options may become part of the Urban Renewal Plan.

The final three presentations included Judeth Van Hamm’ s proposal for solar-powered personal rapid transit and a Miyawaki Forest, Erin Swenson Gorrall’s Waterside Culture Hub, and Susan Vermilya’ s dog park proposal.

Van Hamm’s primary suggestion is that the HRA include a proposal for solar personal rapid transit as an “integral part” of the URP because it can reduce the parking needed for the HRA area, provide views of the ocean and bay, transportation to serve residents, businesses, and visitors, cut traffic congestion and carbon emissions, and generate income for the town.

According to Energy5.com, solar-powered personal rapid transit, commonly known as Solar PRT, is an eco-friendly, personalized, and efficient transportation system that relies on renewable solar energy to power lightweight vehicles consisting of small, driverless pods that navigate a network of elevated tracks or tunnels.

“If we didn’t have so many cars coming here, there would be more land use for economic development… there is economic importance to having a place be walkable. In addition, it makes it more enjoyable,” said Van Hamm, suggesting those in attendance read the book “Walkable City” by Jeff Speck.

She recommended locating the Solar PRT line on Nantasket Avenue, along the edge of the HRA land. It would include a station, likely on the corner of the HRA land at Water Street/Bay Street and Nantasket Avenue.

Van Hamm said the Solar PRT line could first connect to places within Hull, perhaps initially as far as the carousel, then further within and beyond Hull, such as to Quincy Center, and eventually connect to a Boston metropolitan network.

“Hull had the first railroad, first steamboat, and the first electric railroad; let’s be the first to have solar rapid transit,” she said. “It is fast, affordable, cutting-edge, electric, computer controlled. People will come to town to ride it because it is fun.”

Van Hamm also proposed a Miyawaki forest, a method for cultivating native vegetation, which could be part of open space on the property. The placement would depend on the layout of the other uses within the HRA area.

“It could be a focal point to the open space using species native to Hull, which can support biodiversity, cooling air temperature, buffering against flooding and erosion, and sequestering carbon,” she said, urging HRA members to visit the Northeast’ s first Miyawaki forest in Cambridge.

“Dealing with flooding and erosion are super important to me,” HRA Clerk Adrienne Paquin said. “Hull has to deal with getting people to the beach without cars.”

Community Preservation Committee member James Ianiri commented on Van Hamm’ s presentation in the meeting’s Zoom chat: “I love your forward thinking; Hull has to own its own future.”

Erin Swenson Gorrall, a business strategist, yogi, runner, and metaphysical enthusiast, proposed what she calls the Waterside Culture Hub.

She described the concept as “a historic skate, BMX, living, performing, and commerce hub by the water. A space for local Hullonians to use, build community, and prosper economically and culturally while also inviting the South Shore as well as lifestyle and culture enthusiasts a chance to visit Hull, spend money, and experience the amazing land we love.”

Gorrall’s proposal is for a surfing eco-village, an X-Games style BMX and skate park, pop up retail, walk loop and fitness path, small stage, outdoor agora-style seating, fire pit, and dog park. 

“The way to grow culture is to look at culture that is already growing in an area,” said Gorrall, citing surfing, skateboarding, and BMX as some with rapid growth during the past four years.

“Hull fosters culture in a way no other town has…this place has a magical connection and I want to honor that,” said Gorrall, who grew up in the Midwest.

Joan Senatore, the HRA’ s state-appointed board member and newly appointed treasurer, said she learned a lot from Gorrall’s presentation and had never heard of an eco-village before this presentation.

“An eco-village is an intentional, community consciously designed for regeneration and sustainability in four areas: social, cultural, ecological, and economic,” Gorrall said.

The surf eco-village would have rentable spaces for two to four weeks, allowing families and individuals to learn about communal living, sustainable living, and caring for the land. Grants for Hull residents would be given to teach the skills of a commune-style life.

in this screenshot from the proposal, an ECO-Village that provides temporary housing is part of one concept for the plan, which also includes a skate park, concert venue, popup retail and a dog park.

“Surfing is a skill that betters communities and would give a hook to the Hull eco-village that showcases our amazing waves,” said Gorrall.

“I love the fire pit…it can be a great addition to the bonfire or, hate to say it, replace the bonfire and start a new tradition in Hull,” said Senatore.

“So many plans in here, even at piecemeal. I would love to support the surf community,” Paquin said. “Agora seating is super interesting, wonder how to work it in.”

“Agora seating and the fire pit sound like a beautiful idea,” said HRA Vice Chair Dan Kernan.

SOS Hull founding member Susan Vermilya said that during the COVID19 pandemic, many more people adopted dogs, and per town hall records, there are 990 registered dogs in town.

Vermilya said there is a lot of interest in a dog park in Hull, and the Community Preservation Committee awarded $10,000 for a feasibility study for a site search.

Vermilya said the town is “running out of places for dogs to go.”

The park would include a five-foot-tall chain-link fence with double doors for safety and a large door opening for mowing; privacy fencing along the side of property abutting a home on Bay St.; an irrigation system to keep grass watered and minimize odors; pea stone in certain areas to help with drainage; a bag dispenser and barrel for dog waste; a dog water bubbler to ensure hydration; and benches where owners can sit.

Vermilya proposed parking for the dog park in the current residential lot at the end of HRA parcel 4.

 “You have done a lot of legwork,” said Chair Dennis Zaia. “If the dog park is already in process, that is incredible.”

“All the neighbors already use the spot as a dog park,” Kernan said. “A fence will make it safer for people already using the space.”

“Something to look at; there is a need for it,” said HRA member Bartley Kelly. “Interested to hear neighbors’ concerns about a dog park there.”

“A whole series of opportunities reinforce what we have heard before, but also new ideas,” said Zaia.

Comparing the “ideation process” going forward to the distillation procedure of making maple syrup to “collect liquid nutrient,” Zaia said, “now we have to refine and distill all we have heard into a new draft Urban Renewal Plan … [it] takes time, conversation, listening, and understanding where people are coming from.”

For all the details about these proposals, and the others that were submitted, visit the submissions tab at HRA02045.com. To watch the presentations, check Hull Community television online at hulltv.net and on either Comcast or Verizon.

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Hampton Circle neighbors still concerned about new playground’s effect on drainage

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By Dolores Sauca Lorusso

Residents who live near the Hampton Circle Playground remain concerned about longstanding problems with flooding, rain pooling, and poor drainage, problems that they say have been made worse by the town’s addition of fill during the reconstruction of the site.

Construction on the Hampton Circle Playground includes adding fill around the play structures. [Richard W. Green photo]

During a Zoom meeting among residents, town officials, and engineers last week, Director of Community Development & Planning Chris DiIorio assured the group that Federal Emergency Management Agency requirements are followed in all floodplain development projects in town. He added the playground was designed with the knowledge that this area experiences substantial flooding from the ocean, and that a portion of that ocean water – as well as water from rain events – is drained by the existing system.

“The playground is designed to work with that existing system. Drainage in that area is the subject of an upcoming study, which will start soon, that will develop recommendations for a more robust drainage system regarding rainwater to improve conditions at the site,” said DiIorio. “Drainage needs to be addressed beyond this project; the town realizes it and is taking it on. Any work we can do to help alleviate ponding and puddling, we will do that.”

Engineers from the Beta Group, an engineering firm, explained that the Hampton Circle area is in a floodplain, but is not considered a “floodway” because this term is used to describe systems that convey flood waters in a one-direction flow.

“The land is subject to coastal storm flowage, but is not a floodway,” Director of Climate Adaptation and Conservation Chris Krahforst said.

Liz Kay of Hampton Circle said it is difficult for many residents to follow the technical terminology and suggested that visuals may help to “communicate the process, especially issues of elevation, flood areas, and storm drains.”

“In the event of coastal flooding, it is not like the mound is a brick wall. When water hits , it will disperse,” Town Manager Jennifer Constable said. “The top 18 inches are permeable; water goes in the ground.”

Constable also highlighted the outreach to the neighborhood and responsiveness by town staff to concerns about the project.

“People feel there has been a lot of pushback at us, and we live here, dealing with the issues,” Hampton Circle resident Valerie Carlson said. “Really want to hear the town also wishes they had dealt with the drainage issues before building the playground.”

“It appears to me a dam has been created,” said Jen Romeo Picaro of Moreland Avenue. “When water floods, it won’t be able to go through the playground… I would like assurance from the engineers, because multiple properties are at stake of being ruined.”

Dave McKinley, landscape engineer from the Beta Group, said the playground work “did lift areas, but did not create a physical dam all the way around to prevent water from getting across; water can move around it.” He said the project “added a mound, but didn’t add grades around the mound so natural drainage should happen. However, if the drainage system is not working, then it will not take water off the road correctly and it will seek another way.”

“We don’t have to be an engineer or scientist; a mound of material was placed there,” Carlson said. “Water that is displaced has to go somewhere else. Doesn’t matter coastal flooding or rain, water that used to flow through has to flow around.”

The engineers said they did not do a drainage plan on site; they were hired to reconstruct the playground with the existing drainage.

“Drainage was not in the scope of the project,” said McKinley.

“If the stormwater system is working, the playground mass will not raise the storm water,” Beta Group civil engineer Gary James said. “[It] doesn’t take very much change in grade to change the drainage.”

Bryan Fenelon of Hampton Circle said the drainage is not working properly; water runs along the wall and into yards.

“I am talking about rain effect, not just coastal flooding,” he said.

“As Bryan explained, the drainage wasn’t working before, and now with the new playground there, it is working worse…changes need to be made soon,” said Deidre Murphy of Hampton Circle.

Krahforst reminded the group the playground was installed in one of the worst rainfall years of recent times, and the rainfall needs to be mapped to what is typical.

“Torrential downpours are part of the change in environment going forward; there is concern about absorbing this rainwater,” Kay said. “There are still many concerns about the known storm drain issues within the area, as well as along Moreland and Marginal, all which have been known culprits to severe drainage issues.”

When the project started, Eileen Weisslinger of Hampton Circle remembers asking if a drainage study had been done, and being told it was not required.

“I am not against the playground, but I believe the cart was put before the horse…drainage studies should have been done first,” said Weisslinger, adding she is “astounded how it all played out.”

DiIorio said a drainage study was not needed at the time of constructing the new playground because the project did change the drainage, and the ground was graded to work with the existing system. Abutters disagreed, and believe the drainage system was impacted because fill was added to change the elevation.

“MEPA didn’t think we needed a written report,” said McKinley.

Krahforst said he doesn’t want to “promise putting in a drainage system will solve flooding in the area. The drainage system will only work as well as the groundwater table and tides will let it. [It is] going to function as well as it can in an area that used to be wetlands.”

Krahforst said the town next will “need to look at cost and how to move forward” with potential solutions to the issues raised by the neighbors.

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Band’s performance to raise funds for Rotary’s ‘Stretch Your Food Budget’ program

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By Carol Britton Meyer

 

An upcoming fundraiser for a program that combats food insecurity in Hull will help residents stretch their food budgets as the holiday season approaches.

The Assisted Living band will play at the C Note on Friday, Nov. 17, as a fundraiser for the Nantasket-Hull Rotary Club’s Stretch Your Food Budget program, which provides many Hull seniors and families with free meal kits during these challenging times.

In addition to donating the proceeds from the concert, raffles and prizes will add to the fun and support SYFB at the same time. Tickets are $15 at the door, with no advance sales. The doors will open at 7 p.m., with the music beginning at 8 p.m.

SYFB was created by Rotarian Dennis Zaia during the height of the COVID19 pandemic with the goal of providing nutritious, protein-laden meals at a time of widespread food insecurity, and has continued ever since.

“There’s a real need in Hull for people of all ages,” SYFB program coordinator Jeff Thiebauth told The Hull Times. “We have about 100 different clients.”

The lively six-member Assisted Living band – which plays favorites from the ’80s and ’90s, with some contemporary tunes mixed in – is pleased to be able to support this effort.

“We had a very busy year playing paid gigs at local clubs, private parties, and even at a wedding on the Cape,” Hull’s David Kellem, who formed the band with two of his “buddies” to beat the middle-age blues more than 10 years ago, told The Hull Times. “We have so much fun playing but individually have been feeling somewhat despondent about the state of humanity and the world, so we wanted to ‘play’ a part in helping people in need. Everyone in the band is very charitable, caring, and giving.”

Included with the SYFB meal kits – which contain all the necessary ingredients for a particular meal – are easy-to-follow directions with a preparation time of fewer that 30 minutes that serve four to five people. The Parrot owner Brian Houlihan helped the SYFB team develop the recipes for the meal kits when the program started.

The support of Hull’s Volunteer Emergency Response Coordinator Craig Wolfe, The Village Market, the South Shore Community Action Council, and other volunteers who are concerned about food insecurity in town are key to this effort. New volunteers are welcome.

The Village Market is the primary source of the non-perishable staples that are used in the meal kits, according to Zaia.

“They have been a valuable contributor to the SYFB program from its inception, allowing us to purchase products at a special rate in a convenient and accessible location,” he said. “The Village Market has demonstrated strong support for the Hull community, and especially for the SYFB program.”

For more details about the SYFB program, including the seven meal kits to choose from, additional weekly items that are available upon request (from hand sanitizer, cereal, and pasta sauce to soup, peanut butter, and canned pumpkin), and how to order meals for delivery, visit https://www.syfb.space. There’s even a box to check off if any dogs are part of clients’ households.

Meal kits are also available at the Ann Scully Senior Center, 197A Samoset Ave., and the Hull Public Library, 9 Main St.

At the fundraiser, silent auction items will include framed prints from Boston-area concerts shot by Thiebauth, who was a freelance photographer for The Boston Phoenix from 1978-1990.

For Assisted Living, the key to holding this event was being able to support a cause where a small amount of money would go a long way.

“The Stretch Your Food Budget program goes right to the heart of food insecurity issues, as well as the human heart,” Kellem said. “The Rotary Club has operated this program somewhat under the radar, so it was a great opportunity to shine some light and help people very directly and impactfully.”

Assisted Living got its start at the C Note when they performed three songs at the 50th birthday party of one of the band member’s wives. At that time, the owner told them if they got better and learned more songs, they could be one of the opening acts.

After practicing and “getting good” at performing 10 songs, the band developed a following.

Assisted Living will perform a fundraising show for a local food program later this month.

“Speaking of under the radar, the C Note has quietly been a major resource for charitable giving in Hull,” Kellem noted. “They have supported fundraisers for a broad range of causes: disabled veterans, the Hull High School band, cancer research, Hull Pride, the Hull and Scituate animal shelters, Rolling Wave Foundation, New England MS Society, the Anne Scully Senior Center, and so many more.”

In addition, on the first Friday of every month, the C Note hosts an all-ages concert series that benefits local charities.  For more information about Assisted Living, visit www.assistedlivingtheband.com.

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Habitat for Humanity to build two units on West Corner lot

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South Shore Habitat for Humanity soon will begin building two affordable homes at West Corner, at the site of the former Reflections Antiques Shop at the intersection of Jerusalem Road and Hull Street.

The organization held a ceremonial groundbreaking ceremony in August for the 1,250-square-foot duplex units. Both homes will have three bedrooms and one and a half baths.

The 3,700-square-foot lot was donated to Habitat for Humanity by the Town of Cohasset, which foreclosed on the property to recover taxes owed by the previous owner. The antique shop burned in 2014 and the fire-damaged building was later removed.

Prior to that, the building was home to the Nantasket Library for most of the 1900s. The tri-town public library purchased the building in 1910 and was supported by Hull, Hingham, and Cohasset before closing in 1986. The library was on the second floor; the first level housed various retail enterprises over the years. Among the first was the general store owned by Charles West, which gave West’s Corner its name in the late 1800s.

The homes to be built will be South Shore Habitat’s 66th and 67th across the 32 communities it serves. It is the group’s second project in Cohasset, and the organization is reportedly interested in finding a suitable site to build in Hull.

“We are thrilled to again work with the town of Cohasset,” South Shore Habitat Executive Director Beth Lyons said. “From helping to identify the land as a potential site, to donating it to South Shore Habitat, to getting the word out around town, the Cohasset Affordable Housing Steering Committee, the Cohasset Affordable Housing Trust, and the Town of Cohasset have been amazing to work with.”

For information about the organization, including ways in which you can volunteer to help build the duplex, visit www.sshabitat.org/donate.

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Residents object to density, ‘industrial’ look of 132-unit building at Boardwalk

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By Dolores Sauca Lorusso  

The Louis C. Costa Meeting Room at town hall was packed on Thursday, Oct. 19 for the first Design Review Board meeting introducing a revised proposal for the Paragon Dunes development. Residents in attendance expressed concern about what many called the “mass, density, and industrial design” of the buildings.

The Procopio Companies, which has control of the Paragon Boardwalk property under an agreement with owner Chris Reale of Hingham, proposes constructing a 40-foot tall building containing 132 residential units, with 7,000 square feet of retail space on the first floor. There would be 81 one-bedroom units, 44 two-bedrooms, six studios, and one three-bedroom unit, along with 177 parking spaces under the building and along the former railroad bed that runs behind the property.

Four months ago, the developer withdrew a request for a variance to build a 75-foot building at 183-197 Nantasket Ave. The Nantasket Beach Overlay District limits building heights to 40 feet.

In a statement, the Procopio Companies said the “project will stimulate mixed-use redevelopment of commercial and multi-family properties at scales and densities appropriate for a historic beachfront community … maintaining the character of this coastal beach community, consistent with the goals and purpose of the NBOD.”

The standing-room only crowd at the Design Review Board meeting mostly disagreed.

“This affects everyone. We are supposed to be a seaside town,” said Mary Lou White of Nantasket Road. “I am not against building and remodeling, but we should not lose the charm of our seaside town.”

“The current project complies with the Nantasket Beach Overlay District (NBOD) zoning… parking also complies with the zoning code,” said Procopio attorney Adam Brodsky.

“Zoning may allow you to put the development there, but it is not right for the community of Hull,” said Cindy Borges of Nantasket Avenue. “While it may be legal, it really needs to be relooked at.”

Gisela Voss of Hampton Circle urged the group to consider something “less monolithic.”

Procopio Director of Development David Roache said the new design improves upon the past plan for walkability of Nantasket Avenue.

“The past plan had a long stretch of lack of interest,” he said. “Walkability features make it more interesting. Now there are pocket parks and a breakthrough between the buildings to connect to the Art Walk.”

Lisa French of Rockaway Avenue said people are not going to drive to Hull to walk on the “charming” sidewalk, because she said it would no longer be charming.

“The building looks like it belongs in an industrial park,” she said.

“A project like this fits Miami Beach, Somerville, Watertown…it is out of character for Nantasket,” added Sheldon Segal a resident at Horizons condominiums, next door to the Boardwalk site.

“It is a major improvement from the last iteration; a great second stop,” said Jim Curran of Atlantic Avenue. “The basic footprint is fine, but still needs to incorporate elements that fit the town.”

“This continuous-wall building is problematic for me,” Design Review Board Co-Chair Julia Parker said. “Buildings look similar. Need something unique to Hull, not something that can be anywhere.”

Parker also pointed out the difference in scale between this development and the nearby Paragon Carousel.

Design Review Board member Don Ritz referenced the mansard roof and pergola at Berkeley Place further up Nantasket Avenue as ways to “add more character to the design.”

“The clocktower and bath house are landmark buildings in town…there needs to be more cohesive approach to that part of town,” said DRB Co-Chair Tom Burns. 

DRB member Tory Lam agreed that the clocktower and carousel are landmarks and should be highlighted.

“Whether entering Hull for the first time or on a regular basis, these buildings should be celebrated,” said Lam.

Alex Yoon, design director of Monte French Design Studio, said the project contains setbacks on the building to break up the mass on Nantasket Avenue.

“Hope retail and commercial can activate this area,” Yoon said. “We are open to discussion on how we can program the space for seasonal events and vendor pop-ups.”

Kate Barclay of Central Avenue said she does not see small businesses thriving in the retail space because of parking.

“We are not on the Green Line or Red Line here,” she said “[You] can’t get off at Nantasket Junction and easily find your way to Hull.”

Sue Vermilya, founder of SOS Hull, said a complex like Paragon Dunes will have a negative impact on the other businesses in town.

“We are taking away a lot of recreation so we will draw less visitors to town and affect existing businesses,” she said.

Burns agreed with Vermilya that “recreation is a draw to town, but I’m not sure it is the client’s responsibility to supply the amusements currently there.”

“The town is short on parking… only one to two spaces with each unit, what about guests?” asked Abby Klieman of Kenton Avenue “The fact that parking complies with zoning code is different than logistically and reality.”

Burns questioned the linear parking along the old railroad bed, which from its furthest end could be almost a half-mile walk for a resident to reach their car. He stated this could be “excessive,” especially in inclement weather or for someone with reduced mobility.

Karlis Skulte, principal of Civil and Environmental Consultants, said additional water filtration has been put into place, and the design prevents water from entering the building; however, water has the opportunity to fill the garage and recede out.

“There are 177 parking spots; where will those cars go in a flood?” Borges asked. “The cars may not float away, but they will be significantly damaged.”

Some residents expressed disappointment with Reale because he has not acted as a “good neighbor” by bringing in a developer whose “design style does not align with that of the town.” Others cited the owner’s lack of care for the façade of the buildings over the past couple of years and the mini golf course, which is in disarray.

“They are presenting new plans, but it is hard to know what the experience will be for decades to come,” Liz Kay of Hampton Circle said. “My home looks out over the back of their building and there is a lack of respect for the dome lighting in the beer garden, which reflects into my home.”

Burns said the Design Review Board will make a series of recommendations and submit them to the planning board as it considers Procopio’s application for a special permit under the NBOD bylaw.

“We hope to continue working with you [Procopio] to come up with a design the town can embrace and look forward to,” Burns said.

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HRA hears four new proposals for development from residents

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By Dolores Sauca Lorusso 

On Monday, the Hull Redevelopment Authority heard four more presentations from citizens outlining potential uses of the HRA land.

The authority received 20 responses to its call for ideas from residents. It is possible pieces from the submissions will become part of the draft Urban Renewal Plan.

THIS SCREENSHOT OF THE VIDEO PRESENTED AT THIS WEEK’S HRA MEETING ILLUSTRATES THE CONCEPT OF THE ‘BEACH SHELL’ entertainment venue.

Mindy Markowitz and team presented on kinetic wind sculptures and a seaside art park, followed by Susan Vermilya and Liz Kay presenting a vision for open space from bay to ocean on behalf of nearly 400 SOS Hull members. Lisa LePori discussed a beachside park and walkways inspired by a promenade in Tel Aviv, and Shannon Chiba’s video presentation on a “shell” venue for entertainment concluded the talks.

The kinetic sculptures for sustainable landscape concept is “an idea that aligns with open space principles while offering an enriching experience to the community of Hull,” according to the proposal. “Kinetic sculptures are not merely static artworks; they are dynamic, interactive, installations whose movement adds to the natural surroundings. These sculptures respond to environmental forces, adding a captivating element to Hull’s open areas and providing a dynamic platform for community engagement.”

Open space principles include the integration of art and nature, and kinetic sculptures embody this integration by becoming artistic elements within Hull’s natural landscapes.

“They celebrate the beauty of the environment while inviting artistic expression…dynamic interactive movement adds to the natural surroundings,” Markowitz said..

Markowitz said kinetic sculptures provide a flexible and adaptable platform for various events and activities. “The introduction of kinetic sculptures into the Town of Hull’s open spaces will further enhance the appeal of our town while staying true to the dedication of preserving our natural surroundings,” she said.

The goal is that the sculptures be solidly anchored to withstand the elements and be maintenance free; the year round collateral income will contribute to the HRA transformation.

“Maintenance-free is a dream we all have,” said HRA Chair Dennis Zaia.

“Love the idea of this; one thing that space has is wind,” said HRA Clerk Adrienne Paquin. “Great to harness that and keep it low maintenance…this could be worked in on a big or small scale.”

Joan Senatore, the newest HRA member and state-appointed representative, said she likes the idea because it can be added to other development ideas and will make the property more eye appealing.

“The HRA will always endeavor to improve the town with art in all we do,” said HRA Treasurer Bartley Kelly. “We gave $10,000 to the Art Walk.”

Liz Kay, Susan Vermilya, and other team members synthesized the input they received from outreach efforts to craft a short- and long-term approach for community gathering spaces on the property.

“Just under a year ago, SOS Hull was formed to address the HRA’s proposed building development on the last remaining open parcel of land … SOS Hull’s mission to pause the development process and rethink what we might do differently is what brings us here today,” Kay said. “Over the summer, we spoke with numerous individuals and organizations, municipal developers, business owners - local and afar, large and small. We spoke with family members who have been here for generations…family members whose parents lived on HRA land. Additionally, we participated in the HRA online and in-person meetings.”

Kay said from their research they found “success, once it is clearly defined, which is one of the challenges ahead of us, requires collaboration, transparency, strategic alignment, and leadership to make the hard decision.

“For the most part, all the ‘ideas’ we have heard fall into two large buckets: Open areas, parks, gathering and community space, and seasonal fairs and festivals; experiences that enliven the community and bring visitors into town to experience what we cherish,” said Kay.

SOS Hull said the land should be considered a gathering place for community, as well as an area to promote increased visitation to Hull by creating a festival space to anchor revenue-producing cultural and community events.

“Our proposal brings in revenue from multiple revenue streams and doesn’t rely on one stream from property taxes alone, does not stress all of our resources every day of the year [water, sewer, electric, fire, and police], provides direct benefits to our residents with all that we are putting on the land, and increases visitation to local Hull businesses,” Vermilya said.

Senatore said she liked how SOS Hull broke things down into long-term and short-term and drew from other presentations, like a centerpiece leveraging Lenny Markowitz’s mobile stage concept.

“Important to me is what cheap short-term fixes we can do to the land right now to improve quality of life for Hull residents and increase tourists to town,” said Paquin.

LePori was inspired by her visit to the waterfront promenade in Tel Aviv. One of the most interesting elements she took away were graded steps down to the beach, which could provide a space for beachgoers to congregate when the tide is high.

“Brand spanking new ideas presented here…the whole DCR waterfront link, flowing integration, and design, is very beautiful,” said HRA Vice Chair Dan Kernan.

Kelly said he loved the step-down approach as an easier transition to the beach, but was not sure the DCR would ever do it because it is such a “major endeavor financially.”

Zaia said an important goal brought to the forefront by these presentations is the need to “make connectivity happen with the DCR.”

“Hope if and when we work with the DCR on the boardwalk, we can bring some beachside specific ideas to their attention,” said Paquin.

Chiba submitted a video of her presentation. “Our identity is intrinsic to what we have always been, which is an entertainment community focused on families and good times,” said Chiba.

She said the land should be not be developed with housing structures.

“People can enjoy open space for as long as it serves Hull’s needs to do so, which I believe can be forever, “said Chiba.

Chiba’s plan incorporates a beach shell for entertainment, a dog park, a statue or memorial to recognize those who lost their homes or Hull’s lifesaving heritage, and the Hull-O-Trolley.

“The beach shell would be a centerpiece for Hull, a place where we could gather, have outdoor movies and events, still keeping the carnival, still keeping the bonfire, and energizing our community,” said Chiba.

The potential for a charitable land trust was also pitched by Chiba, as a “viable and perhaps better alternative to turning the land over to the town of Hull.” She explained “this would ensure a board that is voted on in a regular election cycle constantly is responsible for management, upkeep, revenue allocation, revenue development, and is constantly engaged.”

“I like what I have seen, all things are good parts of a plan, but leaving open space totally undeveloped doesn’t meet the goals of the HRA,” said Kelly.

For all the details about these proposals, and the others that will be discussed at future meetings, visit the submissions tab at HRA02045.com. To watch the presentations, check Hull Community television online at hulltv.net and on either Comcast or Verizon.

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Community offers priorities for next superintendent; teachers prefer an outsider

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By Carol Britton Meyer

Following a full day of focus group sessions on Oct. 19, the New England School Development Council shared with the school committee a draft profile of the ideal candidate to be the next Hull Public Schools superintendent.

The profile is based on the feedback that consultant Dr. Margaret Frieswyk gathered from parents and guardians, students, administrators, and staff to guide the screening and selection process. NESDEC was hired to facilitate the search to replace Judith Kuehn, who is retiring at the end of the school year.

The Hull Teachers Association, the union representing most of the district’s teachers, offered its own set of priorities, including a preference that the next superintendent come from outside the Hull Public Schools.

NESDEC’s draft report outlines the skills, expertise, and experience those who participated would like to see in the next superintendent, as well as what they feel needs to be accomplished in year one of his or her tenure. An online survey was available for those unable to attend the focus groups. Those results will be incorporated into the final candidate profile.

The three common threads among all the groups who participated related first to finding creative ways for Hull to be seen “as a viable option for residency and schooling, including partnering with other leadership in town,” in light of declining enrollment, Frieswyk said.

There also was a general consensus that the new superintendent should build trust and positive relationships during implementation of the second phase of the school consolidation in September.

Another priority shared among the groups was the importance of communicating “in a way that builds a strong alliance will all stakeholders.” The new superintendent also should maintain an open-door policy and be visible in the schools and in the community.

Teachers placed priority on the new superintendent having experience with contract negotiations, according to Frieswyk. Maintaining a balance between being a strong financial manager working with the school committee to craft a responsible budget “while also advocating for staff you obviously cherish and support” is another consideration, she said.

The desire was also expressed that the new superintendent will get to know the district – what has been tried, and what works and what hasn’t – “and take the time to think about the district’s potential,” Frieswyk noted.

Brian Mullin, one of the three Hull Teachers Association presidents, suggested including representatives from the three schools and a specialist “to cover the whole dynamic of the school system” on the screening committee.

He also presented to the school committee the written results of a survey asking teachers if they agree with the HTA leadership’s stance on the “three key components needed to drive the HPS in the direction that is necessary for future success.”

Mullin provided a copy of the survey to The Hull Times after the meeting. It was not discussed during the meeting.

The three points were that the new superintendent “needs to be from a candidate pool outside of the Hull public school system;” someone who has classroom teaching and administrative experience; and an administrator who has successfully negotiated contracts with a union. 

The survey was completed by about 50 percent of teachers. Ninety-nine percent of Hull teachers belong to the union, according to Mullin.

Frieswyk referred to herself as a “listener and a scribe” during the focus groups, not someone in the role of setting priorities.

It’s expected that the school committee will be ready to offer and negotiate a contract by Jan. 22, with an expected start date of July 2024.

Frieswyk was impressed with the students who participated.

“They were incredibly articulate and very aware of the areas of opportunity and challenge, as well as the things that are working well,” she said.

The school committee members then provided their own input, which Frieswyk added to the draft. This included a focus on student academic outcomes; ongoing maintenance of the school buildings, fields, and other facilities; experience with negotiating contracts and budgeting; building upon the current good relationship among the leadership team, central office, and the principals; and knowing when delegating responsibilities is appropriate and to whom.

A commitment to maintaining existing educational and vocational partnerships in the community, including the summer marine program and the Hull Lifesaving Museum, along with the partnership with the Hull Police Department in promoting safety in the schools are other priorities for the new superintendent, school committee members said.

Among the immediate challenges identified during the focus groups are addressing cultural and social and emotional issues associated with the consolidation; addressing declining enrollments; creating a “culture of care” that focuses on positive relationships; “embracing rather than fearing technology” and improving technology hardware and infrastructure; and possibily expanding the guidance department.

Another overall point of consensus was that the new superintendent “has big shoes to fill,” which school committee member Ernest Minelli said is a testament to Kuehn’s overall success.

“It’s important for the new superintendent to take the time to get to know the community and its culture,” school committee member Liliana Hedrick said.

“We also want a superintendent who is open to feedback and a lifelong learner,” said member Kyle Conley, who is the committee’s contact person for the search and screening process.

The committee independently reviewed the draft document during the weekend following the presentation, with more information to come.

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