Tracy Nowicki, Chelsea’s director of health and human services, has been named a 2026 Commonwealth Heroine for the 11th Suffolk District by State Representative Judith Garcia and the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women, the city announced.
Nowicki grew up in Chelsea, the youngest of six children, and “despite barriers that kept her from a college education, built a remarkable career right here in Chelsea,” the city said. Over 30 years working for the city, she championed a free transportation system for older adults, expanded the Senior Center’s health, fitness and social programs, set up a no-cost fitness studio, and led the creation of Chelsea’s first regional warming center for people experiencing homelessness, according to the city.
The Commonwealth Heroines program, run by the state commission, honors women chosen by their legislators for their service to their communities.
Also from City Hall
Two seats open on the Board of Health
The city is looking for residents to fill two vacancies on the Board of Health, which oversees public health and safety, healthy housing, food safety and environmental standards. Applicants should send a resume and a letter describing their interest, background, experience and reasons for applying, through chelseama.gov/board-openings or to [email protected]. The board next meets Tuesday, October 13, at 5:45 p.m. at the Williams School Building.
The city is hiring a communications manager
The City Manager’s Office is hiring a Communications and Community Engagement Manager, responsible for expanding the city’s outreach “to include multiple mediums and forums” and finding new ways to reach residents. Details and the application are at chelseama.gov/careers.
The Senior Center’s Hispanic Heritage parade
Members of the Chelsea Senior Center marked Hispanic Heritage Month with a parade in which they represented their home countries, followed by dancing, food and music. “Hispanic heritage is an important part of Chelsea’s identity,” the city said.
Meet a Farmers Market vendor
The city spotlighted Humberto of Fun Craft 3D, who has sold 3D-printed toys, decorations and other creations at the Chelsea Farmers Market every Tuesday this season. The market runs from 3 to 7 p.m. in Chelsea Square, 179 Winnisimmet Street, through its last day, Tuesday, October 20.
Adopt a storm drain
Residents can sign up to keep a storm drain near home clear of leaves and litter, which helps rainwater drain, can reduce local flooding and keeps litter out of nearby waterways. Sign up at mysticriver.org/adopt-a-drain.
For more events, see our calendar for October 12 to November 1.