Boston Globe -- Globe South

On Presidents’ Day, hail to the chief salesman

Peter DeMarco — 2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

The annual hoopla for Presidents’ Day car sales will soon be in full swing. But just when did the holiday become synonymous with auto-selling extravaganzas? The idea, according to many, was the brainchild of Malden native Alvan T. Fuller. Fuller is perhaps best remembered for his tenure as Massachusetts’ 52d governor. But long before his career in politics, Fuller was just an enterprising teenager selling bicycles out of a backyard barn on Cross Street in Malden.

Antiques appraiser regales crowd

Constance Lindner, Globe Correspondent — 2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

More than 100 people crowded into the Abington Public Library early this month to show their possessions to Kenneth Gloss, an appraiser of PBS’s “Antiques Roadshow’’ and proprietor of the Brattle Book Shop in Boston.

Braintree views kindergarten demand

Jessica Bartlett, Globe Correspondent — 2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Braintree Public School officials are deferring any decision on the expanding full-day kindergarten program until they see how many people actually register for the 180 available spots.

Reviving Starland for a new generation

Christine Legere, Globe Correspondent — 2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

A longtime Hanover destination for family fun that’s been looking a little worse for wear in recent years has a new owner, who says he has big plans to enhance the park’s offerings while adding large indoor sports facilities. Norwell resident John Poirier, along with a local group of investors, recently closed a $2.7 million deal for Starland, a 30-acre recreational site on Route 53. The Hanover Planning Board begins its review of Poirier’s plan on Feb. 27.

Ban on lawn parking sought on game days

Michele Morgan Bolton, Globe Correspondent — 2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

A tradition among some Foxborough home owners of selling parking spaces on their lawns and driveways to fans going to games and concerts at Gillette Stadium could soon be a thing of the past as town officials seek to ban the practice they say is prohibited by local zoning and threatens public safety. For years, residents near the stadium, especially on North Street, have been allowed to park as many as 10 vehicles for a fee without a commercial license.

Globe South People: Kingston man named director of Boy Scouts

Paul E. Kandarian — 2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Kingston’s James R. Corcoran Jr. is at home again - with the Boy Scouts. Corcoran took over as the Old Colony Council’s director of development in January, in its Canton office. He had worked at the same job from 1992-1998, starting fresh out of Suffolk University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He was there six years, and for the next seven, did the same job for the Scout’s Boston Minuteman Council.

Panel split on rules for siting solar projects

Robert Knox, Globe Correspondent — 2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

A new committee formed to write local rules to guide solar energy development in Carver is divided over how severely such projects can be restricted in the rural town, which has seen a raft of proposals over the past year. At its first meeting last week, the group discussed a proposed bylaw that would restrict solar projects to industrial zones, but did not reach agreement. The group will try again before a special Town Meeting takes place Feb. 27.

Town manager suspended

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Selectmen suspended Town Manager Michael Coughlin with pay last week and said they planned to fire him “without cause.” At Coughlin’s request, selectmen scheduled a public hearing for March 13 before a final vote on his dismissal. In a resolution issued after a quick meeting before a packed audience on Wednesday, selectmen said Coughlin and the board “do not share in common the same views as to how important matters should be communicated, or as to the most effective manner in which those matters should be handled.” Coughlin, who has been on the job since Aug. 1, said through his attorney that he intends to fight the firing. - Johanna Seltz

Consultant report on town

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

A consultant recently presented selectmen with the first half of the findings of a study on town departments. Selectmen hired UMass-Boston’s Edward J. Collins Jr. Center for Public Management last October to undertake the study, which is intended to identify ways the town can improve its department’s efficiency. The findings pertain to the departments on the first floor of Town Hall. In the next few weeks, the consultant will return to present the remainder of its findings, which relate to departments on the second floor. Residents can view the initial findings on the town website, www.hanson-ma.gov, clicking on “Citizens Library,” and selecting the report.

Backyard farm lectures

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

From canning vegetables to raising alpacas, backyard farmers can learn from the specialists at a free day of lectures March 24, presented by the Marshfield Agricultural Commission. A total of nine talks in three 45-minute sessions will address a variety of topics, including how to attract songbirds to your garden, preserving what you grow, raising animals, making goat cheeses, root cellaring, and cooking with fresh herbs. The event, “The Backyard Farm and Garden,” runs from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Marshfield Senior Center, 230 Webster St. Seating is guaranteed for those who pre-register at www.townofmarshfield.org/lecture.htm. - Jennette Barnes

Garden plots available

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

There are still plots available in the Community Garden at the town-owned Adams Farm. Applications are available at the Recreation Department, located in Blackburn Hall, 135 School St., or by calling 508-660-7353. This is the fifth year that plots have been cultivated in the Community Garden, which has about 40 plots.

Tax work-off program

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Seniors once again have the opportunity to participate in the town’s Senior Property Tax Work-off Program, which allows residents to use their knowledge and skills in exchange for credits toward their residential tax bills. Participants must be 60 years old by July 1, and be the owner of record (or spouse of the owner) of a local property. Only one resident of a property can participate in a given year. Up to $800 may be earned, requiring 100 hours of work. Applicants must report to the town treasurer’s office, with their Social Security card and driver’s license, to complete an application form. - Christine Legere

Dates for annual events set

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

The dates for the annual town election and Town Meeting have been set. The election is scheduled for April 21, and the last day for nomination papers to be returned to the town clerk’s office is Wednesday. The last day for voters to register for the election is March 22. The date of the annual Town Meeting is May 21. Articles for the meeting warrant will be accepted through April 6, and all zoning articles must be submitted to the town by March 15. For information on the election or Town Meeting, contact the town clerk’s office at 508-763-3871, ext. 17.

Former police chief sues

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Former police chief Mark DeLuca, whose employment contract was not renewed by the town manager three years ago, has filed suit against the town, contending that Duxbury owes him more than $200,000 in severance pay. The suit also contends the town violated his rights by terminating him after he tried to start a union for managerial workers. Under town practices, the police chief is hired by the town manager and works under contract. Still, the decision by Town Manager Richard MacDonald not to renew DeLuca’s contract was controversial, with many demanding to know the reasons for the decision. MacDonald’s supporters said a public discussion of the reasons would violate the contract negotiating process, and selectmen ultimately backed MacDonald. DeLuca was hired as Cohasset’s police chief a few months after leaving Duxbury, and earned more than $100,000 in his first year in Cohasset.

Back Bay Guitar Trio

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

The Hingham Public Library and the Boston Classical Guitar Society present the Back Bay Guitar Trio in a concert on Saturday in the library’s Whiton Room. Performing since 2002, the trio specializes in popular jazz and classical music. David Newsam, John Mason, and Sharon Wayne have performed locally and beyond, including a tour of Germany in 2009. The free concert begins at 3 p.m. - Jessica Bartlett

Rare birthday bash

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

How can a town incorporated in 1872 be celebrating its 34th birthday this month? It’s a leap-year town, of course. All are welcome at a celebration next Sunday hosted by the Holbrook Historical Society at the Dalton Club, also known as William B. Dalton Post 137 of the American Legion, 777 Plymouth St. The town will mark its 140th year with dinner, music, and dancing. The festivities begin at 3 p.m. with cocktails and Al DuBois on piano, followed by dinner at 4:15. The Holbrook Junior-Senior High School Chorus and other musicians will perform. For tickets, which are $35 per person, contact the town clerk’s office at 781-767-4314, historical society at 781-767-5885, or library at 781-767-3644. - Jennette Barnes

Manager hiring process begins

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

The town has begun seeking a replacement for Town Manager Francis Crimmins, but it appears likely that an interim town manager will be appointed to run things until Crimmins, who leaves his post March 31, can be replaced. Selectmen voted 2-to-1 to form a citizens’ search committee and to ask the Finance Committee for $20,000 to pay a consultant to assist in the search. The citizens’ committee will help select the consulting firm, and both will assist selectmen during the hiring process. Human resources director Martin McNamara estimated the process could take 90 to 120 days. Selectmen John Stagnone and John Anzivino voted yes, with Selectwoman Cynthia Walsh against the motion. Selectmen Steven Anastos and John Anderson expressed support for the plan but abstained from the final vote, saying they preferred to follow the process that resulted in the selection of Police Chief Paul Stastany two years ago. That process involved a search committee, with two selectmen as well as citizens at large, interviewing search firms and recommending search firms to the board.

Summer internships in Senate

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

State Senate President Therese Murray is looking for student volunteers to work in her Boston office over the summer. “I hope that any college student interested in the legislative process or a career in public service will take advantage of these internship positions,” said Murray, a Plymouth Democrat, in a press release. “This opportunity will offer students a hands-on view of how the legislative process works and provide a valuable learning experience that will supplement what is learned in the classroom.” The internships are available to high school graduates. Applicants should submit a r�sum�, a copy of their school transcript, and a writing sample to Annalyce Shufelt at Annalyce.Shufelt@masenate.gov.

Science center’s leader retires

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Martha Twigg, director of the South Shore Natural Science Center for 16 years, has retired. Her innovative contributions, such as the creation of EcoZone - an exhibit on local ecosystems, including wetlands, woodlands, and meadows - were celebrated last weekend at an open house attended by more than 200 people. Twigg, 68, is credited with drawing a diverse range of people to the center, which marks its 50th anniversary this year. - Meg Murphy

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2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Pesticide-free gardening

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Bridgewater Growing Spaces Community Gardens is offering 20- by 20-foot plots on a first-come, first-served basis at 810 Conant St., on the northern edge of the Department of Corrections land. Plots are plowed and tilled and have access to water. The cost is $20 per season. Applications should be submitted by April 13 to guarantee a space. The project is hosted by Bridgewater State University’s Center for Sustainability. For more information or to receive an application, contact Arthur Lizie at alizie@bridgew.edu.

Mercury recycling

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Items containing mercury can be brought to the Highway Department, 70 Elm St., on Mondays from 7:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., holidays excluded. All materials to be dropped off, including fluorescent light bulbs, thermometers, manometers, gauges, and thermostats, must be checked in by highway personnel. Large quantities of mercury are subject to inspection by the Highway Department supervisor or superintendent before they can be considered for disposal. - Michele Bolton

Democratic caucus

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

The Avon Democratic Town Committee will hold its annual caucus on Feb. 25 at 10 a.m. in the Mary T. McDermott Room of Town Hall, 65 East Main St. All Avon voters who are registered as Democrats as of Dec. 31, 2011, are eligible to participate. The caucus will elect delegates to the annual Massachusetts State Democratic Convention, which is scheduled for June 2 in Springfield. - Johanna Seltz

Girl Scouts float

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

The town’s Girl Scouts are displaying the birthday cake float they created to mark the centennial of the Girl Scouts of America. The float, which took part in the Tri-Town Veterans Day Parade last fall, has four tiers, representing the four levels of Girl Scouting: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, and Cadet/Senior. The troops added flowers and pictures to the float, which was designed by Elisa Pollard. The float is on display at Rockland Memorial Library through March 2, as part of the Art in the Rotunda program. For more information about the Rockland Girl Scouts, e-mail Beth Flaherty at gsmom02370@aol.com.

Gas station of the future

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Two electric vehicle charging stations have been installed in the Hanover Mall parking lot next to Rockland Federal Credit Union, the first of 30 to be installed around the state as part of the US Department of Energy’s two-year ChargePoint America program. Other installations are expected to be done by month’s end in Brockton, Easton, Rockland, West Bridgewater, and Weymouth. State and local officials have said the stations show a commitment to “green” initiatives.

Job combination proposed

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Town Administrator Jim Thomas has proposed combining the two part-time positions of senior van driver and custodian into one full-time position, since both jobs relate to the Senior Center. Following the recent retirement of the van driver, both positions are open. The van job is currently booked at 33 hours, but Thomas said there is down time in that job, making the driver available for custodian duties. Those duties, currently 18 hours a week, fluctuate depending on center activities. In order to combine the two jobs, the Board of Selectmen will have to lift the town’s hiring freeze. - Robert Knox

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2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Kennel license granted

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

The Zoning Board of Appeals granted a commercial kennel license last week to Courtney and Michael Perette to breed Italian mastiffs, also known as cane corsos, at their property on Marion Road. The license allows as many as 20 dogs on the property. There were no objections to the license request.

Meet the artist

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

The Scituate Arts Association will present Vcevy Strekalovsky as a guest in the Meet the Artist series in the town library. The free demonstration of basic figure-drawing skills and some master tricks will be held Wednesday from 7 to 9 p.m. Strekalovsky is a third-generation painter of Russian heritage, and enjoys painting en plein air, portraits, still lifes, and wildlife. Participants are encouraged to bring their own pad of paper and charcoal stick or pencil to work along with the artist. - Jessica Bartlett

More beautification underway

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

A new stone wall and landscaped island are taking shape at the Mansfield Green Recycling Center as part of efforts by the Keep Mansfield Beautiful Committee. When the project is complete in the spring, the green will feature a 40-foot stone wall and an island with a birch tree, shrubs, and flowers. This will enhance last year’s plantings of rhododendron and mountain laurel. “This project has been on our to-do list for some time, so we’re really excited to finally see it come to fruition,” said Neil Rhein, executive director of Keep Mansfield Beautiful. “We hope it inspires businesses and residents in the community to beautify their own properties and take greater pride in the appearance of our town.”

Surplus vehicles up for bid

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Town officials are inviting bids on six surplus town vehicles, including four Ford Crown Victorias, which are three to 12 years old; a 1998 Ford F150 4x4 in need of a fuel pump; and a 1995 GMC 3500 that “may run.” Bids per vehicle must be at least $500 and submitted to Town Hall by Feb. 28 at 3 p.m. The vehicles are being stored at the highway barn on Hemlock Lane. Potential buyers are warned the vehicles have been sitting outside for at least a year and “show effects such as sun damage, flat tires, and damage to the motor systems due to lack of activity.”

Printing office recycles

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Braintree Printing, a digital and offset printing company, received a commendation letter in January from Norfolk Sheriff Michael Bellotti’s office for its recycling efforts. According to the sheriff’s office, the company doubled its amount of recycling generated in 2011, drastically reducing printing waste. Braintree Printing has been working with EOMS Recycling of West Bridgewater since 2008 to reduce its trash. Since then, it has identified an average of 15 tons of recyclable material a month. The company has also purchased eco-friendly equipment, including energy-efficient lighting. - Jessica Bartlett

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Twelve portraits and accompanying biographies of significant African-Americans will be on display at City Hall Tuesday through Friday as part of the city’s marking of Black History Month. The portraits are from the Massachusetts Hall of Black Achievement at Bridgewater State University. The hall is a repository of the records of important achievements and contributions by African-Americans, Cape Verdeans, and Hispanics of African descent. City Hall is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:40 p.m. For more information on the exhibit, call Maysa de Oliveira, the city’s director of cultural affairs, at 508-580-7123.

Birds of prey presentation

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Marla Isaac, from New England Reptile and Raptor, will visit the public library from 1 to 2 p.m. Thursday with her collection of birds of prey. See and learn about hawks, falcons, and owls. The program is appropriate for ages 6 and older. Registration is required. Visit raynhampubliclibrary.org or call the library at 508-823-1344. - Christine Legere

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2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

$21,376 for education

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

The Dedham Education Foundation announced last week it has awarded 33 grants totaling $21,376 to local teachers and staff. This year’s awards produced the largest one-year total in the organization’s history, and the foundation received a record number of grant requests as well. Money will be used toward student trips to various museums; presentations about bullying, health, and other topics; and materials and equipment for music, arts, and science programs.

Train parking fee could double

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Commuters may soon have to pay double - $100 instead of $50 - for quarterly parking passes for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority train station in Sharon. Passes routinely sell out for the crowded parking area. The town, which manages the parking and controls the quarterly fees, is considering an increase. The Board of Selectmen has scheduled a public hearing for Feb. 28 at 7 p.m. at the Sharon Community Center, 219 Massapoag Ave.

Selectman to resign

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

J. Michael Schneider plans to resign from the Board of Selectmen on March 31. “My involvement with the town and serving it as a member of the Board of selectmen has meant a great deal to me,’’ Schneider said in his resignation letter. “However, my current personal situation will require that I relocate on a permanent basis and focus my energy on my health and the well-being of my family.’’ Town Clerk Mary Ann Silva received the letter on Feb. 8, and said it was too late to add his seat to the April 3 town election ballot, so a special election will probably be called. The selectmen are expected to discuss the issue at their meeting on Tuesday. Silva said town elections can cost between $10,000 and $15,000. Silva said that if there isn’t enough money in the election budget after the regular April 3 election, she would request a reserve fund transfer through the town administrator and the Finance Committee. “It is kind of a wait and see right now,’’ she said in an e-mail.

Bay Watch hearing scheduled

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

The zoning board has scheduled a hearing Thursday at 7 p.m. on the application of Bay Watch Realty Trust, which is seeking a comprehensive permit to build affordable housing on Front Street. The trust had reduced its original proposal from 168 units to 96, with 60 of them rented as affordable housing and the remaining 36 sold as single-family homes at market rates. Selectmen recently wrote a letter in support of Bay Watch’s attempt to get tax-credit financing from the state, which the board has done with other similar projects in town.

Music concert

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Old Colony Music will present a family-friendly concert in St. Chrysostom’s Episcopal Church on March 10. The act will feature the band Animal Farm, which blends music, sketch comedy, games, and character-acting into an energetic and engaging performance for children of all ages. All proceeds go to the Old Colony Music Scholarship Fund, which helps families attend music classes and provides instrument lessons for children. Tickets are $3, with infants admitted free. Tickets can be purchased online at www.oldcolonymusic.com, by calling 508-838-9815, or at the door. - Jessica Bartlett

Kindergarten registration

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Public school kindergarten registration for children born before Sept. 1, 2007, will be held Feb. 29 and March 1 and 2 at the Center School, 65 Thaxter Ave. Children should accompany their parent or guardian at the time of registration for a vision and hearing screening. Findings will be reported to parents, along with referrals if needed. For registration packets, contact school secretary Debra Hitchens at 781-982-2195. - Constance Lindner

Rent control for mobile homes

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Town Meeting has approved rent control for mobile home parks. Monday’s special meeting created a bylaw and a control board, but the moves do not take effect until the state Legislature passes a home-rule bill authorizing it. The actions came after a rent increase of more than 30 percent at the town’s only mobile home park. The meeting also approved $85,000 for an emergency generator for Town Hall, $118,000 for police overtime and part-time dispatchers, and $110,000 to study sewer expansion. Voters also approved easements to the Olmsted, Richardson, Parkview, and middle schools as part of the Safe Routes to School Program. The town already owns the land, on which walkways would be built.

Three centuries of history

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Residents can order a book created for Pembroke’s 300th anniversary celebration this year. The coffee table book features numerous stories about the town’s three centuries of history penned by more than 11 writers, as well as many photographs. The book is expected to be available sometime next month, but residents can order a copy now. To do so, stop by the public library or go to the website of the 300th Anniversary Committee, www.Pembroke300.com. Meanwhile, the library is holding a r�sum�-writing workshop this Thursday at 7 p.m. Gary Gekow, an employment specialist with 24 years of recruiting experience, will lead the program. Participants are encouraged to bring their r�sum�s for confidential, one-on-one reviews with Gekow. The program is free, but those planning to attend are asked to pre-register by calling 781-293-6771.

Pantry offers gluten-free products

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

The Norwood Food Pantry has partnered with Pierce’s Pantry to provide gluten-free products to residents identified as requiring such a diet. Pantry officials hope the partnership will help struggling families find solutions despite dietary needs. Those interested in gluten-free products will be required to bring a signed letter from a doctor or dietitian and food will include pastas, baking mixes, cereals, and breads, among other items.

Benefit hockey game

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Former Boston Bruins will be competing with local players in a benefit hockey game Saturday starting at 7 p.m. at Zapustas Ice Arena, 240 North St. Tickets cost $10 and will be available at the door. Former Bruins players expected at the event include Ken Hodge, John McKenzie, Don Marcotte, Gary Doak, and Ken Linseman. There will be raffles, with prizes including a hockey stick signed by this season’s Bruins and two tickets to a Bruins game. Proceeds from the benefit game will go toward the William M. Pasquantonio Jr. Scholarship Fund, established in June 2008 in memory of 12-year-old Billy, who died in a boating accident. His father, Bill Pasquantonio, said the scholarship fund has awarded about $7,000 to Randolph students so far. Organizing fund-raisers has become a labor of love for him. “It keeps my son’s memory alive,” Pasquantonio said. “It keeps me going; it’s my medicine.” The next fund-raiser is a 5k road race scheduled for May 12, starting at 11:30 a.m. at the Randolph High School parking lot. For more information, visit wmpscholarship.com or contact Pasquantonio at 781-789-1690. - Wendy Chow

Investigating recreation fund

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

A review of possible financial irregularities in the town’s Recreation Department has led to two department employees being placed on paid administrative leave as of Feb. 3 and the town severing its relationship with a third person. A news release issued by the Board of Selectmen stated that irregularities were found during an independent audit of the department’s revolving fund, which supports various recreation programs and services. Canton Police Lieutenant Helena Findlen stressed late last week that no criminal charges had been brought and an investigation is ongoing. The investigation is being carried out in conjunction with the Canton Police Department, the state attorney general’s office, the Canton Recreation Commission, and selectmen. The board has authorized temporary contingency Recreation Department staffing to ensure continuity of services and operations. Joe Mulvey, who is listed on the department’s website as interim director, said he had no comment. Recreation director Jeff Kaylor, who is set to retire in March, was not available for comment.

Special Olympics Polar Plunge

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

The brave and costumed will jump into the frigid waters off Nantasket Beach on March 3 in the Massachusetts Special Olympics’ 14th Annual Polar Plunge to benefit sports programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The event starts with a costume parade at 11:15 a.m., followed by a dash into the ocean, and then an awards ceremony and post-plunge bash under a heated tent. Previously known as the Passion Plunge, the benefit raised about $360,000 for Special Olympics programs last year. More information is available at www.specialolympicsma.org. - Johanna Seltz

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2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Land Trust giving scholarship

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

The Mattapoisett Land Trust is looking for candidates for its $1,000 Blanche B. Perry Scholarship Award, available to a high-school senior who will pursue an education in the sciences, environmental studies, or a related field. The scholarship is available through the Edith Glick Shoolman fund, a bequest that supports children in the community. Applications can be found at Old Rochester Regional High School, Mattapoisett; Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School, Rochester; Tabor Academy, Marion; and Bishop Stang High School, Dartmouth. For information, visit www.mattlandtrust.org/education or e-mail info@mattlandtrust.org. Deadline for submitting applications is April 23.

Meditech not coming to town

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

Despite an overwhelming show of support from residents, the developer for a new Meditech facility told selectmen last week that it will not be locating a major new facility there. “It was a blow,” said Selectwoman Jean Fox, who said that Freetown Elementary School was packed on Feb. 9 and all but one resident answered yea on a voice vote to approve a home rule petition that would clear the way for construction, which would have resulted in hundreds of jobs. But at last Monday’s selectmen’s meeting, representatives from the developer for Meditech, Churchill and Banks delivered the bad news that Freetown was no longer in the running. Fox said the show of support and the coordination of effort between state, local, and regional officials was impressive. “We opened the door to a discussion that needs to happen. It was a learning experience about how to attract business to our region,” she said. The home rule petition would have exempted from jurisdiction of the Massachusetts Historical Commission the buildable portion of a site that may contain Native American artifacts.

Water rate could rise

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

If the Massachusetts Water Resource Authority approves a proposed water-sewer rate increase in June, Milton families could see water bills rise 8.5 percent, under the MWRA’s estimated 2012-13 assessments. Assessments are based on local use, and MWRA officials said Milton uses about twice as much water as surrounding towns of its size; thus, Milton’s increase would be more than double the average of 3.9 percent. The increases would raise the wholesale price of water and sewer services to communities the MWRA serves and are part of a three-year strategy that began last year. Two public hearings on the increase will occur before the final vote in June, and MWRA officials said last week that numbers may change, though only slightly. - Natalie Feulner

Elementary schools fund-raiser

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

The Westwood Elementary Schools Coalition Spring Social fund-raiser is planned for March 17 at Moseley’s in Dedham at 7:30 p.m. The nonprofit group raises money for the town’s five elementary schools and their respective parent-teacher groups. The event will feature food, entertainment, and live and silent auctions with at least 100 items. “A donation to WESC will help enhance the educational experience for our kids - from funds for field trips to curriculum enrichment and classroom supplies,’’ said coalition president Michael F. Walsh. The group has raised nearly $1 million in 18 years. To learn more, go to www.wesconline.org. To donate, send a check to WESC, P.O. Box 474, Westwood, MA 02090. To purchase tickets, contact Sandy Harte at slsinclair@yahoo.com. The event is sponsored by Roche Brothers, Dedham Savings Bank, and Needham Bank.

Community bulletin board

2012-02-19T05:00:00Z

BROCKTON

After 25 years on force, captain named interim chief in Brockton

Michele Morgan Bolton, Globe Correspondent — 2012-02-16T05:00:00Z

With his wife, daughter, and Brockton Mayor Linda Balzotti by his side, and cheered on by scores of friends, city officials, and fellow police officers, Captain Emanuel Gomes swore to protect the residents of Brockton as its interim police chief. But what could stand in the way of him getting the job permanently is the city’s residency requirement for municipal employees. Gomes grew up in Brockton but now lives in Bridgewater.

Moon Island turbine hearing draws a crowd

Robert Knox, Globe Correspondent — 2012-02-16T05:00:00Z

The Quincy Planning Board will continue its hearing next month on a proposal to build a 400-foot wind turbine on Quincy’s Moon Island, after a large turnout last week forced a postponement to find a bigger hall in which to continue the hearing.

Hospital’s closing opposed

Christine Legere, Globe Correspondent — 2012-02-16T05:00:00Z

Patient advocates and officials in communities south of Boston are lobbying to block the state Department of Mental Health’s plan to close Taunton State Hospital, saying it would leave Southeastern Massachusetts without a single bed for the mentally ill. The Taunton facility has 169 beds and 410 employees. The state’s plan, aimed at trimming the budget, would shift 124 of the beds to the new Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital and 45 to Tewksbury State Hospital by Dec. 31.

Observatory open to view Mars

2012-02-16T05:00:00Z

The observatory at Bridgewater State University will be free to the public on Feb. 27 and 29, and March 2 and 3, as Mars passes the closest to Earth in more than two years. Jupiter, Venus, the Andromeda Galaxy, and Orion Nebula will also be visible through the telescopes. Doors will open at 6 p.m. on March 2 and at 6:30 p.m. on the other nights. The observatory is on the fifth floor of the university’s new Science and Mathematics Center at 24 Park Ave. For more information, call 508-531-2093 or visit www.bridgew.edu/observatory. Warm clothing is recommended.

Plymouth’s loss of firm is gain for West Bridgewater

Christine Legere, Globe Correspondent — 2012-02-16T05:00:00Z

With the town of Plymouth unable to offer an acceptable new location, a rapidly growing manufacturing firm is now headed for West Bridgewater’s industrial district, where it will enjoy tax breaks, enough land to continue growing, and direct access to a major interchange.

Barney Frank speaks at breakfast

2012-02-16T05:00:00Z

The Mansfield Democratic Town Committee will host its Seventh Annual Breakfast with US Representative Barney Frank, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., March 3, at the Mansfield Elks Club on North Main Street. The event will feature a buffet breakfast, a talk by Frank, and an opportunity for questions and answers. Tickets are $15 per person, with proceeds going to the Mansfield Democratic Town Committee. To purchase tickets, call Lisa at 508-337-9320.

Boston Gay Men’s Chorus concert

2012-02-16T05:00:00Z

The First Congregational Church of Rockland will host the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus in the church sanctuary at 3 p.m. March 11. In its 30-year history, the chorus has sung for about 220,000 audience members and produced 10 award-winning CDs that have sold over 15,000 copies. According to officials at Rockland’s First Congregational Church, the performance of the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus is a first for the local community. By telling their stories through music, the chorus shares the gay experience. The performance is funded, in part, by the Rockland Cultural Council. Tickets, $15 each, are available by calling the church at 781-878-1790. - Christine Legere

Four communities win grants

2012-02-16T05:00:00Z

Projects in Duxbury, Marshfield, Hingham, and Plymouth will benefit from a recent grant award under the state Coastal Pollution Remediation Program. Duxbury will construct storm-water management systems at three locations to address sources of pollution in Duxbury Bay. The town was awarded $121,386 to supplement its investment of $40,462. Hingham received $85,000 in state money to match its $72,000 investment, which will be used to construct a shore-based pump-out station for the Hingham Town Landing. Marshfield was awarded $51,980 to match its $24,910 investment, which will be used to continue a water quality plan for downtown. Plymouth, where significant erosion has resulted in high levels of sediment being carried into Great Herring Pond by runoff from the Pond Road neighborhood, received $103,969 to match its $97,383 investment to help improve storm-water drainage systems in that area.

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2012-02-16T05:00:00Z

Jewish schools look to serve students with special needs

Kathleen Burge, Globe Staff — 2012-02-16T05:00:00Z

A philanthropic group in Boston has received a $1.89 million grant designed to help local Jewish day schools better teach students with special needs. Private schools, unlike public schools, are not legally required to create special education programs for students who have difficulty learning in traditional classrooms. In the past, Jewish day schools have not always been equipped to serve students with special needs, said Alan Oliff, director of the Combined Jewish Philanthropies Initiative for Day School Excellence.

Back on course

Globe Correspondent — 2012-02-15T05:00:00Z

Independence Academy, a recovery high school for young people addicted to drugs or alcohol, has opened its doors with a small staff, a handful of students, and a multitude of local and state resources aimed at helping young people in Southeastern Massachusetts. “My sister would be alive today if she had this kind of opportunity,’’ said Scituate resident Amy LeFort at the academy’s opening last month. Elizabeth LeFort, 23, died of a heroin overdose on Jan. 13, 2011.

Recovery school in Brockton is first of its kind in region

2012-02-15T05:00:00Z

Independence Academy, a new high school for young people addicted to drugs or alcohol, is the first of its kind in Southeastern Massachusetts. The school, operated by the North River Collaborative, an educational organization, is located in a newly renovated 9,000-square-foot facility at 460 Belmont St. in Brockton.

Fore River bridge concept draws a tepid response

Emily Sweeney, Globe Staff — 2012-02-15T05:00:00Z

The public is getting its first look at a proposed architectural design for the new Fore River Bridge. The big question is: does anyone like it?