׉?4ׁB!בCט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://tUmwXCEhHn6TFYSsdu_RQYo0GvnCgiQ0ZHtkfrxHCvE`)׉ 7cassandra://xmOTk1Pb7nksNzspdNmJFYn0zCIfm8a05tceu5TZKSE͎4`J׉ 7cassandra://d8hiJpm-gybQbBn8Brllk_B8gHpsseXgyRGJwYRDF-s-`̰׉ 7cassandra://-FPd2HcwLCvtawVIuj-nySXA4eVk2YsBfIIgX4QXtrk:\͠_ [\uCdט(u׈QU\Mנ_ [\uCg̿ 9ׁHhttp://www.advocatenews.netׁ ׁ Ј׈E_[\uCF׉E7Vol. 29, No. 53 -FREEwww.advocatenews.net Free Every Friday 617-387-2200 Thursday, December 31, 2020 Lasting legacies Happy New Year from Everett Bank! WE LOOK FORWARD TO ANOTHER YEAR OF BEING RIGHT BY YOU. WE’RE CLOSED ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 1ST AND WILL BE BACK OPEN ON MONDAY, JANUARY 4TH. AS ALWAYS, YOU CAN ACCESS OUR ONLINE BANKING AND ATMS ANYTIME.              WWW.EVERETTBANK .COM Right by you.         Member FDIC Member DIF Superintendent of Schools Priya Tahiliani and Ward 1 Councillor Fred Capone recently met to secure the future of Everett’s DAV Scholarship. See story on page 16. (Photo Courtesy of the Everett Public Schools) holiday bonus City gets Mayor scores additional $3M in CARES Act funding By Christopher Roberson J ust in time for Christmas, Mayor Carlo DeMaria received word on December 24 that Everett would receive another $3.1 million from the federal CARES Act. “The primary reason I sought these additional funds was to help more residents with rental and mortgage assistance while continuing our fi ght against food insecurity,” he said. “I have been advocating relentlessly for these additional funds.” One month prior, DeMaria was informed that Everett was not eligible for further assistance. “That did not stop me from continuing to advocate,” he said. DeMaria also recognized the eff orts of Governor Charlie Baker and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “I’m grateful that Carlo DeMaria Mayor through numerous conversations [they] were able to recognize the serious need for additional funding in our city,” he said. Ward 3 Councillor Anthony BONUS | SEE PAGE 15 ׉ 7cassandra://d8hiJpm-gybQbBn8Brllk_B8gHpsseXgyRGJwYRDF-s-`̰_[\uCG_[\uCF PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://Kr-aZscM8ZlMCvrjFlFiPPqpIqySzu_UgUUMt7JCRa0=`)׉ 7cassandra://Xviqz3P_RjnsycvSMbrWe3l7W1KgY7KUCSP0nm2R9oE͘/`J׉ 7cassandra://Iyzg8NdbTiOzzUD3BDyj1UIvWCLvHb_GbHX_BRx1BSo-`̰׉ 7cassandra://MU6YSjBslzuoRCb5JFBsclTUhOXUhZcpxro12qc8i_A%͠_ [\uChט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://ZAaVmyaupcQEFCpgKyLRC82IVOmazGuAEHmC4WFCTYMC`)׉ 7cassandra://jWOIqcAqZR0HnnYFNkhYHQR2-0EwA_eoQjlH1XmCNTQͨ`J׉ 7cassandra://zp5wdkQg4FcUcrkT_h-Hlu3fWUBlipDHyXnMhMwGlrU0=`̰׉ 7cassandra://2n2BOmF8Ma54u-Jws5jLbLxIguoYHHxWFODaUo0nGooc͠_ [\uCiנ_ [\uCl Bs9ׁH$http://Facebook.com/Advocate.news.maׁ ׁ Ј׉EzPage 2 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 2020: The Year of COVID R By Christopher Roberson avaged by the vicious onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic, 2020 was a year that cast Everett – and the rest of the country – into the vast abyss of the unknown. January It started out like any other year, as the City Council appointed Ward 5 Councillor Rosa DiFlorio as its new president. In addition, Stephanie Martins, Jimmy Tri Li and Gerly Adrien were sworn in as new councillors. Samantha Lambert, Dana Murray and Cynthia Sarnie were sworn in as new School Committee members while Thomas Abruzzese was reappointed as chairman. On January 27, the City Council voted 9-1 to elevate Provisional Fire Chief Anthony Carli to permanent fi re chief. Prior to the vote, Assistant City Solicitor Keith Slattery quelled rumors about Carli allegedly having an unfair advantage and being overly involved in the process of selecting a permanent chief. “Chief Carli only had an administrative role,” said Slattery. “You have a valid and legal process.” Firefi ghter Craig Hardy, president of Everett Firefi ghters Local 143, said prior promotions to chief were made based on the score of the written exam. This was the fi rst time that Everett used the Civil Service Assessment Center. Hardy said the city never communicated with the union despite being legally obligated to do so. “They broke the law; we were never involved in the process,” he said. However, in a follow up interview, City Solicitor Colleen Mejia said that in May 2018 the city notifi ed the union of its intention Ward 5 Councillor Rosa DiFlorio was chosen as the new City Council president during the inauguration ceremonies on January 6. to use the Assessment Center. She also said the fi re chief is not a union member. “The chief’s position is exempt from the union,” said Mejia. DiFlorio said the City Council cannot engage in labor-related confl icts. “We are not here to get involved in labor negotiations,” she said. “We are here to protect the taxpayers.” Ward 3 Councillor Anthony DiPierro said there was no reason for further delay and called for a vote. “To me, this just seems like a lot of in-house back-andforth,” he said. “I think the gentleman should be made the chief.” February Having withstood years of political torment, Mayor Carlo DeMaria was fi nally able to lay some legal matters to rest as untruths during a three-and-a-halfhour City Council meeting on February 24. The discussion was in response to concerns raised by Councillor-at-Large Michael Marchese regarding DeMaria’s campaign fi nance expenses. “For the past six years, I’ve endured Councilman Marchese’s (Advocate photo by Christopher Roberson) attacks on social media and in the newspaper,” said DeMaria. “This is a game being played.” Although he reportedly shared Marchese’s sentiments, Ward 6 Councillor Michael McLaughlin remained silent throughout the discussion. Attorney A. John Pappalardo, counsel for DeMaria since 2016, said his client signed a proffer agreement, which allowed him to speak with federal offi - cials about issues pertaining to the land which is now home to Encore Boston Harbor. However, Pappalardo said that by doing so, DeMaria was falsely portrayed as a “snitch and FBI informant.” “People who are innocent of wrongdoing will talk; they will sign a proff er agreement,” said Pappalardo. “If it wasn’t true, he would’ve been indicted; he didn’t hide behind the Fifth Amendment.” Ward 1 Councillor Fred Capone, a seasoned attorney in his own right, asked why the U.S. Attorney’s Office would want to speak with DeMaria. He also 2020 | SEE PAGE 3 ׉ 7cassandra://Iyzg8NdbTiOzzUD3BDyj1UIvWCLvHb_GbHX_BRx1BSo-`̰_[\uCH׉ETHE EVERETT ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 3 Superintendent shares bright outlook for remainder of school year By Christopher Roberson uperintendent of Schools Priya Tahiliani and her administration are riding a wave of “emotional momentum” as they prepare for the second half of the school year. S “When we return from the winter holiday, we will focus our ample energies into hybrid learning,” said Tahiliani. “From developing staffing solutions to stocking our schools with PPE [personal protective equip2020 | FROM PAGE 2 maintained that a proff er agreement is only used in a criminal proceeding. However, Pappalardo quickly countered. “That’s absolutely untrue – absolutely untrue,” he said. “There’s nothing sinister about a proff er agreement.” Capone also did not appreciate the demeanor that Pappalardo had taken with the council. “I’m a little frustrated that we’re being accosted, as if we’re doing something wrong,” he said. Yet, Pappalardo said that was not his intention. “This is not a personal attack,” he said. “I’m making statements that are very clear.” In addition, Pappalardo dispelled the notion that DeMaria was involved in the $3 billion civil lawsuit against Wynn Resorts that was filed in federal court by Sterling Suff olk Racecourse. “That’s absolutely, completely untrue,” he said. “We are dealing with matters relating to Mayor DeMaria’s political future.” Pappalardo said DeMaria was never mentioned in the Complaint and that the validity of that proceeding was even called into question by a federal judge. He said that in November 2019 the case was “dismissed with prejudice,” meaning that it can ment] and cleaning supplies, you can be sure that we are not starting from a standing position. I know I speak for the entire district when I say we are eager to complete the process.” Although the preference is to have all students back in school for half of the week, Tahiliani said she understands that may not be possible right away. “We have to remain committed to safety, for ourselves and for each other,” she said. “If Everett’s positivity rates continue to be slow never be tried again. “I’ve been an attorney for 45 years. I’m a senior partner at a very large international law fi rm, I’m not here in connection with a criminal case,” said Pappalardo. He also addressed the $200,000 that DeMaria has spent in legal fees over the past four years. “If it were a criminal case, it would be incredibly more expensive,” he said. March Then all hell broke loose. At 125 nanometers, the coronavirus that would become known as COVID-19 was 1,000 times smaller than a grain of sand. Yet, it immediately forced a series of unprecedented changes. That was when this stopped even resembling a normal year. Although the virus struck during fl u season, COVID-19 was a completely diff erent animal. The major diff erence between the fl u and this virus was that COVID-19 attacked the respiratory system, which made it 10 times deadlier than the fl u. It was also contagious to the point where a person could have COVID-19 and spread it without even knowing they had it. In order to defend his beloved city, Mayor Carlo DeMaria ordered all of Everett to be shut down. “Health professionals in dropping, we will focus on bringing back certain grade levels across the district with the intention of expanding the model as circumstances permit.” Tahiliani also said that measures such as wearing masks and social distancing must continue until the COVID-19 vaccines become widely available. “We cannot let anticipation about a vaccine and the weariness of the past nine months combine to shake our resolve,” she said. have advised that our best and most valuable weapon to combat this pandemic is social distancing, community mitigation and public health intervention,” said DeMaria. “Now is the time to act.” He also said city employees would not be permitted to travel during that time without prior authorization. “Employees found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline,” he said. “The purpose of the shutdown is social distanc2020 | SEE PAGE 4 Like us on Facebook advocate newspaper Facebook.com/Advocate.news.ma ׉ 7cassandra://zp5wdkQg4FcUcrkT_h-Hlu3fWUBlipDHyXnMhMwGlrU0=`̰_[\uCI_[\uCH PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://Qe-5HvNGxmjX5EpFsDhPp7Db3N85YE2xhpd5s3gtKXMo`)׉ 7cassandra://cM_DTPKcjwXz9rLsD10PWO5d_eVEALJurVnTX4N8FrY͝`J׉ 7cassandra://RWYg1BNKdLTF8GJ-cxj457SKeEIOHfWIhDlWIaGr6Pg,`̰׉ 7cassandra://k2vd-_1f5X16OKq1ui2BGYDM85aI0WkbVILiwZjpdX0Z͠_ [\uCmט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://JtfnRqYf3cnNhI8Lfiy6-JCggZT3C9O71VUqXWRbLzA`)׉ 7cassandra://WFrJuk9WndRKvUUAVR3nFzeLc483TKSjt-UAt6GhTDYͫ`J׉ 7cassandra://ArebBEUxBu5EiljDLp2btGN7E6Adszk_bJqg-wI4mWE1|`̰׉ 7cassandra://MFINa_9BC4jkG81rKlvueZt5wzEw1iCmY9EDhcAhS9cf͠_ [\uCnנ_ [\uCrf 9ׁHhttp://www.angelosoil.comׁ ׁ Јנ_ [\uCq̹9ׁH mailto:Lsimeonejr@simeonelaw.netׁ ׁ Ј׉ETPage 4 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 2020 | FROM PAGE 3 ing to prevent the spread of the virus.” Forty-eight hours after a local state of emergency was declared in Malden, DeMaria decided to follow suit. He said the purpose of Everett’s state of emergency, which took eff ect on March 20, was to “facilitate and expedite the use of resources to protect persons from the impacts of COVID-19.” Under the state of emergency, the following types of businesses were required to close unless they could provide services at a minimum distance of six feet: hairdressers, barbers, nail salons, gyms, health clubs and yoga studios, private instructor classes, such as driving and tutoring schools, and spa-type services for cosmetic purposes that are not deemed medically necessary. “As a city, as a state, as a nation and as an international community, we are faced with an unprecedented time,” said DeMaria. “Day-by-day, hourby-hour, the responses to the COVID-19 pandemic are evolving.” DeMaria also reminded residents that although City Hall was closed, its departments were still remotely accessible. “A shutdown does not mean a slowdown,” he said. “While this pandemic poses a major test of our collective fortitude, together Lawrence A. Simeone Jr. Attorney-at-Law ~ Since 1989 ~ * Corporate Litigation * Criminal/Civil * MCAD * Zoning/Land Court * Wetlands Litigation * Workmen’s Compensation * Landlord/Tenant Litigation * Real Estate Law * Construction Litigation * Tax Lein * Personal Injury * Bankruptcy * Wrongful Death * Zoning/Permitting Litigation 300 Broadway, Suite 1, Revere * 781-286-1560 Lsimeonejr@simeonelaw.net ANGELO’S FULL SERVICE "42 Years of Excellence!" 1978-2020 Regular Unleaded $2.039 MidUnleaded $2.399 Super $2.459 Diesel Fuel $2.439 KERO $4.359 Diesel $1.999 HEATING OIL 24-Hour Burner Service Call for Current Price! (125—gallon minimum) DEF Available   Open an account and order online at: www.angelosoil.com (781) 231-3500 (781) 231-3003 367 LINCOLN A  A    DA we will get through this.” City Council President Rosa DiFlorio said she supported DeMaria’s decision to declare a state of emergency. “The mayor and his administration are doing an unbelievable job,” she said. DiFlorio was not overly concerned about the fi scal challenges that the city could face as a result of prolonged business closures. “What’s more important, money or health?” she asked. “I’m sure we’ll fi gure out a way.” Ward 3 Councillor Anthony DiPierro also backed the mayor’s state of emergency declaration. “The administration has kept an open line of communication with the City Council,” he said. “We have all been working collectively to ensure services can still be delivered to the residents.” Although Ward 1 Councillor Fred Capone agreed with the state of emergency, he described the fi nancial ramifi cations of so many businesses closing their doors. “Closure of businesses is always of concern, especially as many small businesses operate on very thin fi nancial margins,” he said. However, Capone said that as with any crisis, COVID-19 would ease up at some point. “When it does, our lives will go back to normal,” he said. “A community is only as strong as its residents, and we in Everett are blessed with many wonderful individuals.” After just nine days on the job, Superintendent of Schools Priya Tahiliani ordered the Everett Public Schools to shut down on March 12. From there, Tahiliani launched a remote learning plan and began the process of distributing thousands of Chromebooks to Everett’s students. She also joined dozens of cafeteria employees at Everett High School on March 16 as the district began offering students free lunch while school was closed. “The only meal they may get is at school,” she said. Anthony Carli was sworn in by City Clerk Sergio Cornelio as permanent chief of the Everett Fire Department. (Advocate photo by Christopher Roberson) School Committee Vice Chairman Frank Parker said COVID-19 had compounded the existing obstacle of providing students with nutritious food. “Without a crisis like this, food security is an issue; there’s a kid right now going hungry,” said Parker. “There’s some challenges out there, real challenges.” Encore closure The rapid spread of the virus also toppled the mighty $2.6 billion Encore Boston Harbor for what would become a fourmonth closure. “The health and welfare of our guests and employees has been our primary concern throughout this health crisis,” casino offi - cials said in a written statement. “Encore Boston Harbor has been operating in excess of the safety recommendations of the U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention [CDC].” Encore also vowed to continue paying its full-time employees. A small group of staff members would remain at the casino to continue sanitization procedures and to keep the property secure. Through the lens of a CHA doctor At the Everett campus of Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA), Dr. Erin Beaumont recorded a series of videos documenting what her life had been like as she and her colleagues braced for the dreaded COVID-19 surge. “When I left yesterday, our ICU [intensive care unit] was full, and we haven’t even come close to starting our surge yet,” she said before going into work at 4:48 p.m. on March 24. “I don’t know where we’re going to put these people; I don’t know what we’re going to do.” Beaumont continued to describe her feelings of apprehension in her March 26 video recorded at 11:30 p.m. “We’re just waiting – we’re sitting here waiting for the inevitable terribleness that we know is going to happen,” she said. In her final video, recorded on March 29 at 2:30 a.m., Beaumont said the hospital had been bombarded with a torrent of emergency patients earlier that night. “All of a sudden, we just got overwhelmed, ambulance after ambulance,” she said. “Our ICUs are full, our fl oors are full, the emergency room is full.” Governor Charlie Baker said the COVID-19 surge was expected to begin sometime between April 7 and April 17. April As the change in shifts was 2020 | SEE PAGE 5                                         Prices subject to change   H Happy  FLEET ׉ 7cassandra://RWYg1BNKdLTF8GJ-cxj457SKeEIOHfWIhDlWIaGr6Pg,`̰_[\uCJ׉ETHE EVERETT ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 5 2020 | FROM PAGE 4 starting at the CHA Everett campus, dozens of police offi cers, fi refi ghters and city offi cials arrived at the hospital to thank the countless healthcare professionals entrenched in the war against COVID-19. Sirens fi lled the air on April 17 as police cars and fire engines rolled down Garland Street with Whitney Houston’s “Higher Love” playing in the background. During the rally, every hospital employee received a hot meal and a bouquet of fl owers. “We simply want to say thank you to those who run towards danger and selfl essly go to work every day to save people’s lives,” said Mayor Carlo DeMaria. Christian Lanphere, CHA director of emergency management, said he valued the city’s benevolence. “Our staff greatly appreciated the tremendous turnout from the City of Everett – from Mayor DeMaria, Representative Joe McGonagle, many city councillors and both the Police and Fire Departments – your energy and kindness were felt by all,” he said. Ward 3 Councillor Anthony DiPierro said hosting the rally was the least the city could do. “Being able to thank those employees on the frontline at CHA is just a small token of appreciation from the people of Everett; actions speak louder than words,” he said. Business impact April was the start of what would be many turbulent months for Everett’s business community. “It’s honestly been a roller-coaster ride since this all began,” said Enrico Botta, owner and operator of the HP Cookie Company. “We are very fortunate to still have orders coming in, but it hasn’t been easy.” He also had a number of employees who chose to stay home for fear of becoming infected with COVID-19. “At the beginning of all this, we were missing half the staff because they were afraid to come to work,” said Botta. “The biggest challenge was making the employees feel safe.” At that point, Botta felt it was prudent to shut down the business for one week to thoroughly clean the building. During that time, he purchased face masks, face shields, non-contact thermometers and additional hand sanitizer. “I sent videos to my staff showing them we were taking all the necessary precautions to create a safe and healthy work environment,” said Botta. “New rules have been implemented. Our protocols may seem extreme to some, but my team and myself feel safe coming to work.” He said HP Cookie’s daily production rate had diminished with fewer employees allowed in that part of the building at any given time. “But that’s okay – it’s not about making a profi t right now – it’s about creating a safe, healthy work environment,” he said. “The city and state will give standard recommendations on what to do, but people can’t expect them to hold their hand and do it for them. If people think it’s going to be like it was before, then they aren’t living in reality.” Michael Oxton, co-founder of Night Shift Brewing, said his business was moving forward with an “adjusted approach to operations.” “We are still making beer in Everett, still out there distributing and selling to partner accounts that are open,” he said. “A majority of our staff was furloughed, but we are confi dent we’ll make it through whatever comes our way.” William Nogueira, owner of Sal’s Pizza, said that although the number of takeout and delivery orders had improved, there was still a noticeable decrease in revenue. “We have remained open, but I have opted to keep the door closed,” he said. DeMaria vowed that he and his administration were prepared for the long-term eff ects of COVID-19. “My feeling is this will drag on for the next few months,” said DeMaria. “We are continually helping residents; reach out to us, call 311.” DeMaria sympathized with those coping with the challenges of social distancing, saying most residents are not accustomed to going months with2020 | SEE PAGE 6 ׉ 7cassandra://ArebBEUxBu5EiljDLp2btGN7E6Adszk_bJqg-wI4mWE1|`̰_[\uCK_[\uCJ PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://avZoAYYTswGqh7UgmJch41PuUOO8T3qPi9k4yY3EB8k`)׉ 7cassandra://0E3S-zqcHGpal6xpN4eQ6_Wq8_MGt_oG6X9XFH4xXiQͦd`J׉ 7cassandra://tlNLIGnQauFGC3JzlmSbUjgiobf1PrJ3pq6GhsglR0k/^`̰׉ 7cassandra://eJ1EhCGzlq5CpTbRt-1l9h37xJ8WVyktuAIrDX4Kc0Y& ͠_[\uCsט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://vAcHl_vKQMziyT68K6yzhqYZdvQ5-OfFdWL-KysPGhw"`)׉ 7cassandra://NSGvJ8-0cyQ-hmKYtMRI2SAxmF6WiY8x3Lw6ItRrcvUz3`J׉ 7cassandra://G2tUA6d6jtLXup93xIptpiohu9o2eSVFo0-dicn2Ejc)$`̰׉ 7cassandra://ekpZDuZHVF2BUtwnMUQDL0C7Wwp694e2Apy_3q5UidA0IͳB͠_[\uCtנ_[\uCx̼9ׁHhttp://EddiesAutotech.comׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uCwT9ׁHhttp://WWW.BIKERSOUTFITTER.COMׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uCvT9ׁHhttp://WWW.BIKERSOUTFITTER.COMׁ ׁ Ј׉EHPage 6 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 2020 | FROM PAGE 5 SNOW BLOWER SALES, SERVICE & REPAIRS Pickup/Delivery Available 1039 BROADWAY, REVERE 781-289-6466 781-289-6466 WWW.BIKERSOUTFITTER.COM WWW.BIKERSOUTFITTER.COM AUTOTECH 1989 SINCE CA$H FOR YOUR CAR! 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In addition, DeMaria announced that the city’s curfew order, which required residents to remain in their homes from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., would remain in eff ect until further notice. Regarding business closures, DeMaria said businesses off ering professional services had to remain closed. He said anyone found in violation of the order would be fi ned up to $300 per day. “I have ordered the Everett Police Department, the Health Department and Inspectional Services to strictly enforce these guidelines,” he said in his order. “I know these measures may seem extreme; however, this virus is extreme. As we grapple with the spread of the coronavirus, the response to mitigate the current pandemic and fl atten the curve has to be more vigorous. We must all understand the seriousness of the virus and work with one another as we get through this period of time together.” DeMaria said residents were starting to understand the purpose of social distancing. “A lot of people are adhering to it,” he said. “I think the message is hitting home.” Regarding the availability of ventilators, DeMaria said Baker had requested 1,400 of those devices from the federal medical device stockpile. However, at the time, the state had only received 100 ventilators. By April 14, Everett had 399 confi rmed cases of COVID-19, representing a 24-hour increase Mariajose Cardenas, a fifth grade student at the Whittier School, picked up her lunch at the drive-thru at Everett High School. of 28 cases. By comparison, Public Health Nurse Sabrina Firicano said the increase from April 12 to April 13 was 37 cases. “I’m hopeful that we may have reached our peak,” she said. Firicano said taking action early on kept the virus from spiraling out of control in Everett. “We made a pretty bold statement with closing the schools right away,” she said. CHA spokesperson David Cecere said the number of COVID-19 patients continued to grow exponentially. “Cambridge Health Alliance has been seeing a higher rate of patients than most hospitals in the area,” he said. In an effort to keep beds available for critically ill patients, Cecere said, recovering COVID-19 patients were being transferred to the Boston Hope Medical Center housed at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center. In addition, Cecere said CHA had been working with approximately 200 vendors to ensure that enough personal protective equipment was on hand. “Our top priority is keeping our staff safe while meeting the needs of our patients,” he said. EHS Senior Class The Senior Class at Everett High School was less than three months away from graduation when COVID-19 brought everything to a grinding halt. As a result, Senior Class President Ashley Yebba said, hallmark events, such as the prom, senior week and graduation, became unknown variables adrift in a sea of uncertainty. “For now it’s on pause. A lot of us are on edge – it’s just an uneasy feeling,” she said. Yebba remembered the day when the decision was made to close the schools. “I was still in the building at the time it was announced, and then got the message from my mom – I immediately broke down into tears,” she said. “Everett High School means a lot to me, and to think that I might not walk the halls again scared me; I didn’t (Advocate photo by Christopher Roberson) want March 12 to be my last day.” MCAS cancelled For the fi rst time in its 27-year history, the MCAS exam was cancelled – as a result of the pandemic. “If there ever was a time that it should be canceled, that time is most defi nitely now,” said Tahiliani. “Right now, our collective priorities supersede standardized testing. We are most concerned about keeping our students engaged in learning and ensuring their social, emotional and physical well-being.” However, Tahiliani still acknowledged the ramifi cations that would come from cancelling the MCAS. “The repercussions of this will certainly be long-lasting,” she said. “I just hope the state and test-makers are forethinking and make adjustments to next year’s test or to our overall accountability system.” Once they return to the classroom, Tahiliani said, teachers and administrators would be harnessed with the task of ensuring that students “receive targeted intervention and intensive support.” School Committee Vice Chairman Frank Parker said he was pleased that the governor signed legislation authorizing state Education Commissioner Jeff rey Riley to cancel the MCAS. “There are so many questions up in the air and MCAS was one of them,” said Parker. However, like Tahiliani, Parker said the cancelation would create a void in terms of accountability. “There’s going to be a year’s worth of data that’s missing,” he said. State Senator Sal DiDomenico said cancelling the MCAS was “absolutely the right course of action during this unprecedented time.” “Our students and educators are facing enough stress and educational disruptions due to COVID-19 without the added pressure of having to prepare for the MCAS,” he said. 2020 | SEE PAGE 8 ׉ 7cassandra://tlNLIGnQauFGC3JzlmSbUjgiobf1PrJ3pq6GhsglR0k/^`̰_[\uCL׉E C͠_[\uCzנ_[\uC~5f9ׁHhttp://gsoldanorealtor.comׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uC}5r9ׁHmailto:Gina.Soldano@era.comׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 8 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 2020 | FROM PAGE 6 State Representative Joseph McGonagle also expressed his support. “Too often, major crises unfairly harm our most vulnerable populations, such as children and the homeless,” said McGonagle. “This proves how we are working to protect those vulnerable people.” Remainder of school year cancelled The day that students and educators had feared arrived on April 21 when Baker announced that all public and private schools would not reopen until the fall. “Students cannot return to school safely,” he said, adding that the spread of COVID-19 was still too great. “At this point in time, there is no authoritative guidance or advisories with respect to how to operate schools safely.” Baker said that while the buildings would remain closed, remote learning would continGina S Soldano REALTOR® ABR®, AHWD, e-PRO®, GREEN, MRP®, PSA®, SFR®, SRES®, SRS® Broker/Associate Millennium Real Estate 291 Ferry Street, Everett, MA 02149 (857) 272-4270 Gina.Soldano@era.com gsoldanorealtor.com ue. “Closing the actual school buildings for the year does not mean it’s time to start summer vacation early,” he said. Because of the virus, high school seniors across the state would be forced to miss the pageantry of their senior prom, being recognized at Awards Night and Edward Elgar’s melodious “Pomp and Circumstance” at graduation. Yet, Baker had a few words for those students. “To all the seniors let me just say ‘keep your heads up,’” he said. For Yebba, that was easier said than done. “I cried – it was like a huge wave of sadness,” she said. “To think I’ll never walk the halls as a student again pained me. It’s so hard to say goodbye to a building that has so much meaning and memories.” Mayor Carlo DeMaria gave a thumbs up during the employee appreciation rally at CHA Everett Hospital on April 17. (Photo Courtesy of the City of Everett) Parker was almost at a loss for words following Baker’s announcement. “I’m still taking it all in,” he said. “There’s a lot of concern.” School Committee Memberat-Large Samantha Lambert said the announcement was not “entirely unexpected.” “It was still hard to process what this means, as both a parent and member of the School Committee,” she said. “The fears, anxiety and concerns parents, families and students are feeling are valid.” Although deeply saddened, Ward 4 School Committee Member Dana Murray said she understood Baker’s decision. “I believe that Everett is strong and resilient; we will pull through,” she said. “We are in this together, even if we have to be separated.” School Committee Memberat-Large Millie Cardello said it was early on in the pandemic when she realized that the remainder of the school year would be in jeopardy. “Within a week I had that gut feeling,” she said. “Everyone else started jumping on the long-term bandwagon.” Like Murray, Cardello said she understood the rationale behind Baker’s decision. “There is no way we could safely socially distance students and teachers,” she said. May The School Committee voted unanimously, during its May 18 meeting, to submit a request to U.S. Senator Ed Markey, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley and U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren asking them to petition their colleagues for additional federal education funding. Superintendent of Schools Priya Tahiliani said the district was providing an average of 350 meals per day despite a projected shortfall from the Federal Meals Program that would cost the Everett Public Schools $200,000. In addition, she said the district had managed to keep its 936 employees on payroll and invested $400,000 for 2,000 more Chromebooks. School Committee Vice Chairman Frank Parker agreed that the district needed to look to Capitol Hill rather than Beacon Hill. “Without a doubt, the state needs federal help,” he said. Financial assistance for small businesses As the pandemic continued to run rampant, small business owners were reminded that fi - nancial assistance remained available. Nadine Boone of the Massachusetts District of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) spoke about the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL). “The Small Business Administration has done 14 years of work in 14 days,” she said during a small business webinar on May 4. Boone said PPP loans would become grants provided that 75 percent of the money was used for payroll and that the remaining 25 percent was used for rent and utilities. “It’s an incentive for small business owners to keep their employees on payroll,” she said. “The rules of engagement are very important.” She also emphasized that small business owners did not need a relationship with a particular bank to be eligible for the PPP. “I want to make that clear,” she said. However, Boone said the program had a time limit. “This program ends on June 30 or as soon as money runs out,” she said, 2020 | SEE PAGE 9 ׉ 7cassandra://A40ynbdpWoM5BgZwuA0mx-OawsJ7MTv1MLUZrzON0Wo/`̰_[\uCN׉ETHE EVERETT ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 9 2020 | FROM PAGE 8 adding that there was also a salary cap of $100,000. PUA provided “up to 39 weeks of unemployment benefi ts to individuals who are not working as a result of COVID-19 and are self-employed, independent contractors, gig economy workers and others who otherwise would not qualify.” PUA also provides claimants with an additional $600 per week. Lastly, EIDL provided up to $10,000 and does not need to be repaid. As of April 24, $263.9 million in EIDL funding had been disbursed to small businesses across the state. Margaret Laforest, Boston Regional Director of the Massachusetts Offi ce of Business Development, said the Reopening Advisory Board would submit its recommendation to Governor Charlie Baker about how to go about reopening Massachusetts. “There’s a lot of anxiety about reopening the economy,” she said, adding that the state’s unemployment rate had reached 25 percent. Reopening plan The long-awaited process of reopening the state’s economy began on May 18. The meticulous process got underway with the Start phase in which “limited industries resume operations with severe restrictions.” That would be followed by the Cautious and Vigilant phases with the final step being the New Normal. “A safe reopening is necessary to allow the business community to survive over the coming months,” said Colin Kelly, president of the Everett Chamber of Commerce. “From our large commercial businesses to our neighborhood stores, Everett needs the energy and the economy to recover to keep our city moving forward.” Ward 4 School Committee Member Dana Murray said that as a mother she appreciated that Baker was “cautious and necessarily vague.” “I don’t want or need premature guarantees that can’t be delivered,” she said. “I don’t need my kids’ hearts crushed by undelivered promises, but I do value the hope a plan off ers.” School Committee Memberat-Large Samantha Lambert said Baker’s plan seemed “a little anticlimactic.” “Many of our students and their families have not had the privilege of staying home, continuing to work in the service, retail and medical industries,” she said. “We will all be happy when we are safely on the other side of this. I look forward to the day we hear the announcement that school is in session.” Ward 1 Councillor Fred Capone agreed that Everett was ready to begin allowing businesses to reopen. “We learn more about the virus every day, and with the help of God and good judgment on our parts, we should be able to get back to a more normal schedule in the near future,” he said. However, Capone said the Start phase would be challenging for many Everett businesses as it only applied to establishments with minimal contact between customers and employees. “Here in Everett, most of our businesses and those in which our residents are involved are fairly interactive,” he said. “Therefore, it may take a little longer before Everett sees a return to normal activity.” June Although additional legwork was needed, members of Everett High School’s Class of 2020 still graduated from inside their cars at the Mystic Street parking lots on June 6. “While it may not be the experience our seniors have been envisioning for all these years, we hope that we will be able to provide them with a unique and festive experience that will live on in their memories forever,” said Superintendent of Schools Priya Tahiliani. Senior Class President Ashley Yebba said she and her classmates appreciated the eff orts made by Tahiliani and Mayor Carlo DeMaria. “I could never say it enough, but I am so thankful for the superintendent and the mayor for doing everything they can for us,” she said. George Floyd In addition to the COVID-19 pandemic, the nation was dealt another traumatic blow with the death of George Floyd, the victim of a police encounter that went horribly wrong. After allegedly passing a bad check, Floyd, 46, of Minneapolis, was restrained by Offi cer Derek Chauvin, who proceeded to plant his knee on Floyd’s neck for eight minutes and 46 seconds. Chauvin’s actions caused Floyd to suff ocate and also ignited a series of riots and protests in cities throughout the country. Reportedly having committed 18 infractions after nearly 20 years with the Minneapolis Police Department, Chauvin was promptly terminated along with the three other responding offi cers. He was subsequently arrested and charged with second-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. “This man should not have worn a uniform,” said DeMaria during the city’s June 2 vigil that was held in Floyd’s memory. “The death of Mr. Floyd was an unjust and cowardly act of inhumane brutality. I want the black community to know that I hear you and the city of Everett hears you.” Dr. Omar Easy, vice principal of the academies at Everett High School, criticized President Donald Trump for claiming to be a “president of law and order.” “Law and order for whom? Clearly, it’s not for all of us,” he said. Police Chief Steven Mazzie agreed that excessive force was clearly employed during the incident that resulted in Floyd’s death. “We didn’t know him, but he did not deserve to die that day,” said Mazzie. “The Everett Police Department condemns all violence. The one thing we strive for is to be professional.” Minister Jean Daniels said nothing would be gained if people continued to point fi ngers. “Let us not use his death to promote a chaotic environment,” he said. “If we’re playing the blame game, we’re not going to get anywhere.” Although it was often ignored, State Senator Sal DiDomenico said, racism is still prevalent in the United States. “I’m working hard to right these historic wrongs,” he said. DiDomenico also off ered his condolences to the black community. “We can’t possibly understand the magnitude of what you’re feeling,” he said, adding that the best way to honor Floyd’s memory is to “push back for positive change.” Summer slow down After months of being bombarded by the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare professionals noticed that the virus was loosening its grip – at least for the 2020 | SEE PAGE 10 ׉ 7cassandra://4zEj3Kq3OUxFo4zz2BajMqKdy5itJwrRDgr88gpm3ZA'&`̰_[\uCO_[\uCN PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://Vgxn1S9HIJ5vjVm2Bsz77AK4bG56eCPKtKNkLwdD_ZA q`)׉ 7cassandra://K2sy-GobXAza3YmVbX_VUQQ2Ij6jsQ-LnAbIPPvuq0w͖l`J׉ 7cassandra://oSf4CI34_wZ-fyEtXrrzpfcv9HIdIM8SRlcM7bgskhE%`̰׉ 7cassandra://YA8qxMi9_9FC29bvRyhN3X-OfMcWT9ChmQ_i-S80PrU͠_[\uCט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://C5PFV-yJmEp3SsucN2fK5KM1JaN0FT4hwwMFHP--V4E&)`)׉ 7cassandra://AenSNWBDYnwEicXEREoT-_Bhw5xfQ5OtsnDx-m-jWvE͖D`J׉ 7cassandra://wmjYRzBf8AmkwYElpMOl189sR2EEJr4QlS-B9hejLyA1`̰׉ 7cassandra://1AVCku6gLSz4ZPk_sWcGJM9Pb2MS1xj--ppythdUKWAG`͠_[\uC׉E)Page 10 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 2020 | FROM PAGE 9 time being. “Our COVID-19 volume has slowed, but we remain cautious as we are still taking care of COVID-positive patients,” said CHA Everett spokesperson David Cecere. However, he said the hospital was not about to let its guard down. “We remain cautiously optimistic but realize that pandemics come in waves,” said Cecere. “We are continuing our emergency preparedness activities for a potential surge in the summer or fall. We encourage people to continue using masks and socially distance where possible to further eliminate progression and transmission of the virus.” Dr. Anthony Weiss of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center said there were 130 patients in the ICU at the apex of the COVID-19 surge, twice the usual number of ICU patients. However, he said that number rapidly declined in the weeks that followed. “The number of discharges is outpacing the number of admissions,” he said. “The peak of the surge is behind us.” Yet, Weiss said a second surge was possible in the coming months. “We’re not out of the woods yet,” he said. “By no means is this totally over.” Remote learning All things considered, the Everett Public Schools Distance Learning Program was working well since the living room became the classroom three months earlier. “In my opinion the Distance Learning Program is going better than expected,” said School Committee Chairman Thomas Abruzzese. “Understand, our entire school community was thrown a gigantic curve ball in the form of the coronavirus.” Ward 4 School Committee Member Dana Murray said that when COVID-19 surfaced the district was already in the midst of “monumental changes” as the committee had just hired a superintendent for the fi rst time in 30 years. “Personally, I am proud of the Everett Public Schools’ faculty and staff for their hundreds of hours of dedication to our community during this incredibly diffi cult time,” she said. School Committee Member-at-Large Samantha Lambert said that with the onset of the pandemic everything happened so quickly that it was impossible for anyone to have all the answers. “The thing we have to keep in mind is this was not a one-size-fi ts-all solution,” she said. Yet, Lambert said she was pleased with what Everett’s teachers had accomplished after being forced out of their classrooms by a microscopic virus. “Our educators were incredible and continue to be; we dove in and got it done, and we saw the community come together for our students,” she said. “I think we can take a step back and really be proud of what we were able to do.” July After being closed for nearly half a year, Encore Boston Harbor was fi nally given the green light to reopen and came roaring back on July 12. From that date through July 31, Encore generated a gross gaming revenue (GGR) of $26.9 million. Within that fi gure, $10.7 million was made on blackjack and the remaining $16.2 million came from the slot machines. In a distant second was MGM Springfi eld, which had a GGR of $10.7 million, followed by Plainridge Park Casino, which reported a GGR of $7.7 million. The three casinos combined for a total GGR of $45.3 million for the month of July. Back to School Steering Committee With guidance from the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Superintendent of Schools Priya Tahiliani announced the formation of the Back to School Steering Committee harnessed with the awesome task of reopening the Everett Public Schools. “We are ready for the challenge and we can’t wait for the moment when our students walk back through our doors and into our classrooms,” she said. Tahiliani was joined on the committee by Deputy Superintendent Kim Tsai, Assistant Superintendents Charles Obremski and Kevin Shaw, Maintenance Director Steven Bond, School Committee Members Samantha Lambert and Dana Murray, English Learner Director Anne Auger, Special Education Director William Donahue, Everett Teachers Association President Kim Auger, Executive Associate Adeline Celestin, Everett Communications Director Deanna Deveney, Public Health Nurse Sabrina Firicano and Councillors Stephanie Martins and Fred Capone. “I look forward to taking this opportunity to really acknowledge everyone’s concerns and bring a unique perspective to the committee representing the diverse voices of our community,” said Martins. “Safety, accessibility and the emotional well-being of our students are defi nitely some of our key priorities.” Capone said he was honored to be part of such a colossal effort. “Given the current circumstances, addressing the upcoming academic year will prove Danielle Ricci poked out of the sunroof of her vehicle as she waited to graduate. very challenging,” he said. “I commend Superintendent Tahiliani for her dedication and creativity in employing a steering committee to address these diffi cult issues in an inclusive manner.” Murray also said she was ready to embrace the challenge. “I am committed to creating the best experience that is safely possible for the students and staff in this coming year,” she said. Although in-person teaching and learning was the preferred model, Murray said, a myriad of factors had to be considered “with new information coming daily regarding forced shutdowns as outbreaks occur and the World Health Organization confi rming new studies regarding aerosol transmission.” Looking ahead to September, Tahiliani underscored her commitment to the district. “The safety and well-being of our students and staff is at the heart of everything we’re doing; our district will meet or exceed every DESE recommendation related to the health of our community,” she said. “The COVID-19 crisis can’t detract us from the critical objective of eliminating achievement gaps.” August As COVID-19 mounted its second assault, Mayor Carlo DeMaria issued an executive order making face masks mandatory throughout the city. “The health, safety and wellbeing of those who reside in the city of Everett has always been and will remain to be paramount under my administration,” he said. “I’m hopeful that the implementation of this order will drive our numbers back down to where they were a month ago. The intent is not to give out fi nes, but rather have those gathering in large groups wear face coverings to stop the spread.” A facial covering advisory had been in eff ect since April; however, it was now a requirement. Ward 1 Councillor Fred Capone said he had observed 50 (Advocate photo by Katy Rogers) to 60 percent of residents either not wearing masks or wearing them incorrectly. “I think a lot of people have dropped their guard thinking that we’re through this,” he said. “We’re far from through this. This is a very potent virus – we need to wear masks.” DeMaria said anyone found in violation of the order would be subject to a fi ne of up to $300. “As we continue to grapple with the spread of the coronavirus, the response to mitigate the current pandemic and fl atten the curve has to be more vigorous,” he said. “We must all understand the seriousness of the virus and work with one another as we get through this period of time together.” School budget The School Committee, during its August 24 meeting, voted unanimously to pass its $88.2 million budget for fiscal year 2021. Charles Obremski, assistant superintendent of business aff airs, said the operating budget of $84 million represented an increase of $748,145 over last year. In addition, the $4.2 million allocation for special education transportation is down $300,000 from fi scal year 2020. Obremski said the city made a net minimum contribution of $35.4 million and that the district received $75 million from the state in Chapter 70 funding. However, he said the Chapter 70 allocation was reduced by $7.3 million because of expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, Obremski said City Hall chargebacks were estimated at $26.6 million. School Committee Vice Chairman Frank Parker said the district was bracing for a budget cut of at least $5.8 million. “It could’ve been a lot worse,” he said, adding that drastic layoff s will no longer be necessary. “We can bring most of the people back that we let go.” Superintendent of Schools Priya Tahiliani thanked State Senator Sal DiDomenico and State Representative Joseph McGonagle for squeezing more money out of Beacon Hill. “If it were not for our legislators, we would be in a much more diffi cult situation fi nancially,” she said. “We were preparing for much greater cuts.” First day of school Tahiliani said she and her colleagues were “laser focused” on the remote start of school scheduled for September 15. She said the district would have 2,500 Wi-Fi hotspots available as well as 1,000 iPads, 3,000 Chromebooks and 4,000 headsets. “We want our students, staff and families to have guardrails to lean on,” said Tahiliani. In addition, she said iReady and Edmentum would be used to conduct online assessments to determine how much material students retained since the schools abruptly closed. “Students have not received in-person instruction since March,” said Tahiliani. She also said 700 laptops would be available for teachers as well as 1,000 business level Zoom licenses. Tahiliani assured the School Committee that a number of contingency plans would be in place in the event that changes become necessary because of the virus. “We will not be deterred by the uncertainties of COVID-19,” said Tahiliani. School Committee Memberat-Large Samantha Lambert said the budget process and upcoming school year could only be described as “unconventional.” “We are focused on being careful, proactive and strategic so as to remain fl exible and prepared for our students,” she said. Ward 5 School Committee Member Marcony Almeida-Barros was extremely impressed with how Tahiliani intended to execute the Reopening Plan. “This is just incredible – thank God you are the superintendent,” he said. September In the September 1 Primary Election, State Representative Joseph McGonagle easily thwarted a challenge from Ward 6 Councillor Michael McLaughlin to earn a fourth term on Beacon Hill. According to the results, McGonagle took 57 percent of the vote to McLaughlin’s 36 percent. After the election, McGonagle took to social media to express his gratitude. “Everett, thank you for trusting me with your vote tonight. I am beyond grateful to have received your overwhelming support in this primary,” he said. “It is an honor to continue serving as your state representa2020 | SEE PAGE 14 ׉ 7cassandra://oSf4CI34_wZ-fyEtXrrzpfcv9HIdIM8SRlcM7bgskhE%`̰_[\uCP׉ETHE EVERETT ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 11 A Very, Very Happy New Year     & Many Thanks 2021 We always look forward to this time of year to let you know how much we value your friendship and loyal support. Here’s hoping all of your year brings much happiness and good times to you and your loved ones. Happy New Year! State Senator Sal DiDomenico & Family All the Best to the People of Everett Terrence Kennedy & family Published EVERY FRIDAY Best to All in the New Year! Thank you so much for your loyal support! Mayor Carlo DeMaria Wife, Stacy, and children, Caroline, Carlo III, and Alexandra ׉ 7cassandra://wmjYRzBf8AmkwYElpMOl189sR2EEJr4QlS-B9hejLyA1`̰_[\uCQ_[\uCP PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://GiRAa8DZmYTxNisCmRMwekh3ev_MN_0zB5HcXK1IBak[`)׉ 7cassandra://kD1B0s1-pl6Ccdxo06AwN8Vp2JF2IbXawtJQclihNUc͔l`J׉ 7cassandra://_I2oW8mWDnUlY1XnPxW-BR4vLrU_2MCUtR8Ve5DErF0/`̰׉ 7cassandra://iJ0TVc8XuHZh5KyOEihktJ7OLvt62cfEe7B-CvWt62Ee ͠_[\uCט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://PHbYVorcSy0uniSQUJEgs9gLFekxLPTt7HWppPNKmDQB`)׉ 7cassandra://JnmEVLPlFc9SWmHRlmVtxJFZ1du8NnjAWPOjfkeCgKI͑`J׉ 7cassandra://2XTMTzwysJLWACsco36i1HWnVzgbBAAZ_W62x73Ho-k1`̰׉ 7cassandra://YMtqm2bQqQDoQJ7cxaiZXSkFFUeMss6DbioCpt6M6K4(͠_[\uCנ_[\uC̐9ׁHhttp://www.larovere.comׁ ׁ Ј׉E{Page 12 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 State Representative Joseph McGonagle Messinger Insurance SINCE 1921 Agency 475 Broadway, Everett, MA 617-387-2700 419 Broadway Everett, MA 02149 617-387-1110 Member FDIC Member SIF Councillor Ward 3 Anthony DiPierro 24 Hr. AIRPORT SERVICE PACKAGE DELIVERY “COMPLETE GLASS SERVICE CENTER” Storefronts & Entrance Doors Custom Mirrors • Table Tops • Auto Glass Insulated Glass • Window & Screen Repairs 2034 Revere Beach Parkway, Everett 617-389-GLAS EVERETT TAXI & MALDEN TRANS (617) 389-8100 (617) 389-1000 BUSINESS ACCOUNTS WELCOME LESTER, PEGGY & DAVID MOROVITZ ׉ 7cassandra://_I2oW8mWDnUlY1XnPxW-BR4vLrU_2MCUtR8Ve5DErF0/`̰_[\uCR׉ETHE EVERETT ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 13 Councillor At-Large John Hanlon and family • 524 Broadway • 1885 Revere Beach Pkwy • 1886 Revere Beach Pkwy 492 Broadway, Everett * 617-387-9700 Check out our new website: www.larovere.com Ward 5 School Committee 650 Broadway, Everett, MA (617) 389-9000 Marcony Almeida  Ward 4 City Council 26 Garvey Street, Everett 617-387-6877 Jimmy Tri Li Ward One Councillor Fred Capone F.J. LaRovere Insurance Agency ׉ 7cassandra://2XTMTzwysJLWACsco36i1HWnVzgbBAAZ_W62x73Ho-k1`̰_[\uCS_[\uCR PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://75XhkJYIngO9yIE8p6ZWcypqz9JY0qANx6SBnzQeo3U ξ`)׉ 7cassandra://Ea_r7j09HCwYu3J7COZfiBpUQmvGj_TYD-wJ74o6BXM͙`J׉ 7cassandra://t_wG275PXtknHvvlwuuHOLZ1BF6oRVR_xwBK82tiHso'F`̰׉ 7cassandra://-XDuRV_pvmYOEMFeXNlREZD9m4JB7k52jVyRNFKV7gwhA,͠_[\uCט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://wLKSOdaEAEwLgtEM9ng3IUpe00TFFOztt-VXP_qYgxUϚ`)׉ 7cassandra://r0IyOCZJBjIf03KcuI0dkY98iaI7PHhxe9ks2CHXqY4͒`J׉ 7cassandra://Uz1289o9Hb83UC4dRbCQ2juyPaAptAnXbOqobaCM-wk(`̰׉ 7cassandra://QVC6BngugKoAm8nhY0bTSDPuw0JTNEopCu9PJYcc6cY:͠_[\uCנ_[\uC̭9ׁHmailto:mask@ci.everett.ma.usׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uCX[L 9ׁHhttp://DIO.COMׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uC̄9ׁHhttp://www.joׁ ׁ Ј׉E$Page 14 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 2020 | FROM PAGE 10 tive. I will always have your back at the State House.” McGonagle was not the only one celebrating a victory. Attorney Terrence Kennedy retained his seat in District 6 of the Governor’s Council, capturing 54.9 percent of the vote over challenger Helina Fontes, who fi nished with 45.1 percent. The U.S. Senate race was tighter, with Everett voters favoring incumbent Senator Ed Markey over U.S. Congressman Joseph Kennedy III by seven percent. Voters across the state shared similar sentiments as Markey garnered 55 percent of the vote to Kennedy’s 44 percent. Following his victory, Markey addressed his younger supporters at the Malden Public Library. “This campaign has always been about the young people, it is our young people who will lead the way,” he said. “March in the streets, protest, run for School Committee, run for City Council, run for state legislature and win.” Markey’s victory was also historic in that it was the fi rst time that any member of the illustrious Kennedy family had lost an election in Massachusetts. Encore layoff s A week before Labor Day, 385 employees of Encore Boston Harbor were informed that they would be laid off on September 1. According to casino offi cials, those employees had already been furloughed earlier in the year. Following this round of personnel cuts, Encore still had 2,700 employees working on-site and 915 employees on furlough. Yet, the prospect of any job restoration remained grim. “As we take a look at our business during these extraordinary conditions, we do not believe that all Encore Boston Harbor jobs will return in 2020,” casino offi - cials said in a written statement. October The City Council, during its September 30 meeting, voted 7-2 to pass Everett’s $202.6 million budget for fi scal year 2021. The School Department budget topped out at $88.2 million and represented an increase of $448,145 over last year. Some of the other requests were $15.8 million for the Police Department, $14.4 million for the Department of Public Works (DPW), $11.3 million for the Fire Department and $1.1 million for the Mayor’s Offi ce. The police budget represented a decrease of $128,885 compared to last year’s fi gure. The Fire Department’s budget was $136,076 lower this year; the DPW budget increased by $572,360; and the budget for the Mayor’s Offi ce represented a decrease of $290,182. November In this year’s Presidential Election, local results showed Democratic challenger Joe Biden with 70.5 percent of the vote, surpassing 27.4 percent for President Donald Trump. On the state level, Biden won Massachusetts by a vote of 65.7 percent to 32.5 percent. In the race for U.S. Senate, incumbent Senator Ed Markey easily defeated Republican challenger Kevin O’Connor with a statewide vote of 66.5 percent to 33.5 percent. In Everett, Markey received 74.6 percent of the vote to O’Connor’s 21.9 percent. “Voters in Massachusetts have reaffi rmed the mandate of our grassroots movement,” said Markey. “Together, we are going to fi ght for bold and systemic change in the United States Senate.” Hybrid learning postponed As the number of COVID-19 cases in Everett continued to rise, it quickly became clear to school offi cials that the district would not be able to transition to the hybrid learning model, which was slated to begin on November 16. “Everett continues to be squarely in the red zone,” said Superintendent of Schools Priya Tahiliani during the November 2 School Committee meeting. “There is no sign of a decline.” In addition, Tahiliani said that as of October 29 fi ve students and two staff members had been diagnosed with COVID-19. Therefore, she recommended staying with the remote model and to gradually begin services for special education students, English language learners and the Career and TechniState Representative Joseph McGonagle (center) is shown with his Social Media Manager, Philip Melki, and Everett Police Captain Paul Strong following his win in the Primary Election. (Advocate photo by Tara Vocino) cal Education (CTE) program. School Committee Memberat-Large Millie Cardello agreed that it was not the time to implement the hybrid model, adding that many residents became complacent during the summer. School Committee Vice Chairman Frank Parker also spoke about the uptick in the number of cases. “The number of schools falling back to the remote scenario has exploded,” he said. Parker also said the eLearning Center at the Madeline English School was temporarily closed after someone in the building was infected with the virus. Therefore, Parker said, he supported keeping the remote model in place with phased in programs, particularly the CTE program. School Committee Chairman Thomas Abruzzese expressed his disappointment with not being able to move forward. “I was really hopeful that this would not hit us again,” he said. Thanksgiving Despite the fl urry of warnings from public health offi cials, 38 percent of Americans still chose to have their traditional Thanksgiving celebrations. Dr. David Rosman, president at the Massachusetts Medical Society, urged residents to remain home if they traveled during the holiday weekend. “Did you visit family during Thanksgiving? No problem. You got to see them and now you get to relax at home,” he said. He also said that as of November 29 there were 2,501 new cases of COVID-19 in Massachusetts. Within that fi gure, 1,081 patients were hospitalized and 238 patients were in intensive care. Dr. Julie Levison of Massachusetts General Hospital was somewhat apprehensive about what could happen going forward. “We’re really in an exponential growth phase – it’s concerning,” she said. She also said there is the natural urge for residents to want to see their relatives. “That can outweigh the protections put in place,” she said. “It’s been a long pandemic.” Yet, Levison remained confi - dent that she and her colleagues could weather the storm once again. “A lot of learning did happen during the fi rst surge in the spring,” she said. Mayor Joins School Committee The City Council, during its November 23 meeting, voted 7-2 in favor of giving Mayor Carlo DeMaria voting power on the School Committee. Because the change required an amendment to the City Charter, the matter still needed to be approved by the state legislature. Ward 3 Councillor Anthony DiPierro said there was no harm in giving DeMaria a vote on the School Committee. “We’re not handing the School Committee to the mayor,” he said. “We’re giving the mayor one vote.” Despite his previous quarrels with DeMaria, Ward 6 Councillor Michael McLaughlin said the mayor, whoever that may be, deserves a seat on the School Committee. However, Ward 1 Councillor Fred Capone said the question should have been put on the ballot. “We have done a disservice to the voters tonight,” he said. December When Councillor-at-Large Peter Napolitano and his family contracted COVID-19, he decided it was time to reassess his options. After much consideration, he decided to leave the City Council after 20 years to apply for the assistant city clerk position which would be vacated by David Ragucci at the end of January. “I bring a good mix of skills to the table,” said Napolitano. “I feel comfortable that this isn’t going to blow up in my face.” Napolitano recalled his first year on the council when constituents came to him about loud noises on Lower Broadway. “I remember sitting in my car at 4 o’clock in the morning, trying to fi gure out where this noise was coming from,” he said. He later discovered that the commotion was caused by a trucking company on Bow Street. Napolitano then travelled to Woburn to meet with the owners of the company to resolve the matter. “It was actually scary going up there, meeting with people I didn’t know,” he said. Times have certainly changed since then. “I’ve learned a lot in the past 20 years,” he said. In addition, Napolitano spoke about the monumental City Charter amendment that was passed in 2011. “The biggest accomplishment was Charter reform,” he said, adding that the change allowed Everett’s form of government to switch from a 25-member bicameral Common Council/Board of Aldermen to one 11-member City Council. Quarrel over CARES Act funding The City Council voted 7-4 to refer the School Department’s reimbursement request of $471,140 to the Mayor’s Offi ce for an offi cial recommendation. However, Councillor-at-Large Gerly Adrien pushed her colleagues for their endorsement. “As a City Council, we should support this,” she said during the December 21 meeting. “It shouldn’t be an argument – it’s an easy process. Let’s take the politics away, let’s support this.” Adrien also said Tahiliani provided the City of Everett with receipts for COVID-19 expenses. During the December 10 meeting of the council’s Committee of the Whole, Tahiliani said the reimbursement money was sent directly to the City of Everett through the CARES Act. The City then transferred those funds to the schools. However, at the end of fiscal year 2020, the district inadvertently returned the money back to the City along with an additional $426,000 in unspent funds. Upon realizing that the schools had acciden2020 | SEE PAGE 15 ׉ 7cassandra://t_wG275PXtknHvvlwuuHOLZ1BF6oRVR_xwBK82tiHso'F`̰_[\uCT׉ETHE EVERETT ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 15 Beacon Hill Roll Call By Bob Katzen A message from Bob Katzen, Publisher of Beacon Hill Roll Call: Join me Sunday nights between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. as we jump in my time capsule and go back to the simpler days of the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s and 1980s for my talk show “The Bob Katzen Baby Boomer and Gen X Fun and Nostalgia Show.” My fi rst guest in 2021 will be Jordan Rich, beloved WBZ Boston radio personality, national voice-over artist, mobile disc jockey, emcee, philanthropist, all-around good guy and a mensch, to boot—on Sunday, January 3 at 7 p.m. Jordan, also well-known for his support and work on behalf of many charities, will talk about his new book “ON AIR: My 50Year Love Aff air with Radio.” Jordan currently hosts a podcast at www.jordanrich. com and is co-owner with Ken Carberry of Chart Productions, an iconic Boston-based audio-video production company. His book is available on Amazon. All proceeds from the sales of the book benefi t Boston Children’s Hospital—one of Jordan’s favorite charities. There are many ways you can listen to the show from anywhere in the world: If you have a smart speaker, simply say, “Play WMEX on RADIO.COM” HILL ROLL | SEE PAGE 19 Mayor distributes reusable, washable masks to Everett residents M ayor Carlo DeMaria is proud to announce that the city recently mailed masks to Everett residents to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Each resident will be receiving a reusable mask with the city of Everett’s “E” logo printed on it. “It is important that we are all being safe during these uncertain times,” said DeMaria. “I am truly grateful for all the sacrifi ces our community has made throughout the year and these masks are a small token of my gratitude. We need to continue to fi ght this virus and stay safe. I hope residents will wear these masks with pride.” The mask includes a QRC code printed on the inside that can be scanned by using a smartphone camera. Once this code is scanned, residents will be brought to the COVID-19 resources section of the City of Everett’s website. For residents who did not receive a mask or for residents who would like additional masks, please email your name, address and phone number to mask@ci.everett.ma.us. Further instructions will be provided upon receipt of the email. Additional masks will be distributed while supplies last. Reusable, washable masks with the City of Everett’s logo were recently mailed out to Everett’s residents. (Photo Courtesy of the City of Everett) Dell Isola returns to City Council O By Christopher Roberson ne year after narrowly losing his bid for reelection, Councillor-at-Large Richard Dell Isola is offi cially back in the saddle, fi lling the seat of former Councillor-at-Large Peter Napolitano. Dell Isola said he was not bitter despite losing the 2019 General Election by just 121 votes. “It happens; you regroup,” he said. “It was good to be away; it was good to have a break from it.” Prior to the election, Dell Isola had served eight years on the BONUS | FROM PAGE 1 DiPierro said he appreciates DeMaria’s persistence in getting the additional funds for Everett. “Even when he was told the answer was no, it did not stop him from lobbying Governor Baker and further making the case that Everett needs the additional help,” said DiPierro. “In government, relationships matter and this is what leadership looks like. These funds will be used to further assist residents need2020 | FROM PAGE 14 tally sent the $471,140 back to City Hall, Tahiliani requested to have those funds returned to the district. “I feel that this is premature – the schools are not open yet,” said City Council President Rosa council and was elected president in January 2019. Therefore, when he was asked to rejoin the body, Dell Isola jumped at the chance. “I missed being involved with the city,” he said. In addition, Dell Isola said he has been watching the council meetings and was not concerned about being brought back up to speed. “I’ll just jump right back into it,” he said. “I’m here; I’m not going anywhere.” He lauded the council and Mayor Carlo DeMaria for their ing rental and mortgage assistance…and continue the fi ght against food insecurity in our community.” School Committee Vice Chairman Frank Parker also praised DeMaria for not backing down. “I applaud the mayor and his administration for their relentlessness in pursuing this funding after being told no,” he said. “We should all consistently advocate for funds we believe that we deserve – no matter how many times we get the Heisman – DiFlorio during the December 21 meeting. “The schools knew they had that extra money and they returned it.” Erin Devaney, DeMaria’s chief of staff , said the mayor never rejected the School Department’s refund request. “It’s still a matter that is under active considresponse to the COVID-19 pandemic. “No one could’ve trained for this; everything’s new to us,” he said. However, Dell Isola said he is optimistic going into the New Year, adding that there should be a noticeable improvement by next summer. “People will be able to go out without being scared,” he said. Going forward, Dell Isola said, his priority will be to make Everett’s residents feel safe once again. “We’re all in this together,” he said. “Hopefully, it’ll be a better year.” that benefi t those we serve.” Ward 1 Councillor Fred Capone said the funding will surely be beneficial as residents and business owners continue to experience the fi nancial brunt of COVID-19. “We, as a community, have tremendous needs, among them food insecurity and rental and mortgage assistance,” he said. “We cannot forget to help bolster our small, local businesses that are struggling to survive during this ongoing pandemic.” eration,” she said. In addition, Chief Financial Offi cer Eric Demas said the district’s investment plan was still being reviewed. Therefore, he said, the $471,140 would remain in the City of Everett’s free cash account until a decision is made. ׉ 7cassandra://Uz1289o9Hb83UC4dRbCQ2juyPaAptAnXbOqobaCM-wk(`̰_[\uCU_[\uCT PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://CHKQWASPtq33uo122t6fOkKpH4APmyWOQncejGPcQX8d`)׉ 7cassandra://gnNdsp4DN3XXdvF7u5E_KGlcVdSlIh02Nt1vPhgf9L4w`J׉ 7cassandra://_8LejtbSpH3TurDOJLOvBZ_RltIteZZWHcaFL9bhdeQ `̰׉ 7cassandra://DBmhkySZzGU9SJXd0J2qIcDEVc6eBxlvjWYkL871iOg*T͠_[\uCט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://FFudFFHABWLf5x0PHprPYv-ld_qTk4hUBabnPxcMaVc-`)׉ 7cassandra://6SZa-WGKxJ7_TeIaqRJ3um--alQQDAKiBVHmyVaD6a4͒`J׉ 7cassandra://2CZHGusJWJX4j1b9ll4porWTy643XNFb52wxerpZZtk(`̰׉ 7cassandra://sRyYLsZX7XXDBE_i0t5Ze_lxiyoIRcqq5eUylgyo7xYr,͠_[\uCנ_[\uC 3/B 9ׁHhttp://ness.orgׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uC 3.9ׁH http://www.eclubofeverett.com/doׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uC 3̹9ׁHhttp://ett.com/membershipsׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uC Tف9ׁHhttps://www.ecׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uC 3n9ׁHhttps://us02web.zoom.us/u/ׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uCL̊ 9ׁHmailto:son@comcast.netׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uCLف>9ׁHhttp://izon.netׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uC e9ׁHhttp://SavvySenior.orgׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uCtS9ׁHhttp://Medicare.govׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uC7̙9ׁHhttp://SSA.gov/prescriptionhelpׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uC}̏9ׁHhttp://Medicare.gov/coverageׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uCo̭9ׁHhttp://Medicare.gov/careׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uCe9ׁHhttp://MyMedicare.govׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uCہg9ׁHhttp://ShiptaCenter.orgׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uCeY9ׁHhttp://Medicare.gov/ׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 16 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Bread of Life Receives $25,000 Grant From Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation For COVID-19 Relief B read of Life, a Malden-based based non-profi t food distribution organization, is the recipient of a $25,000 grant from the Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation. This grant is to assist Bread of Life with on-going COVID-19 relief eff orts. “We are so thankful that the Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation reached out to assist Bread of Life during this challenging time,” said Gabriella Snyder Stelmack, Executive Director. “The Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation does good work to help families in our community and we appreciate their support. Bread of Life is serving record numbers of families at our food pantries, evening meal program and grocery delivery program, and these funds will certainly help feed more families in need. We’re honored to have such a supportive partner as The Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation.” Founded in 1980, Bread of Life is a one of the largest providers and distributors of food to at risk families in the communities north of Boston. ProLasting legacies W Future of Everett DAV Scholarship is secure ard 1 Councillor and Everett Attorney Fred Capone met with Superintendent of Schools Priya Tahiliani earlier this month to cement the future of an annual grams provided by Bread of Life include serving free evening meals four nights per week, and off ering food pantry services to families residing in 10 communities: Malden, Medford, Everett, Saugus, Stoneham, Wakefi eld, Melrose, Reading, North Reading, and Winchester. Bread of Life delivers food to senior citizens in public housing and scholarship program that celebrates a great American service organization and equally dedicated Everett residents. The Everett Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapto at-risk teens and homeless families sheltered in local motels. Bread of Life recently launched a Backpack Nutrition Program to provide backpacks of nutritious food to students in Everett. For more information about Bread of Life and its COVID 19 response, visit: www.breadofl ifemalden.org. ter 51, which was formed in 1937 and merged with Malden Chapter 85 in 2012, has long awarded an annual $1,000 scholarship to an Everett High School senior. The Everett chapter was led by the tireless direction and supervision of George Desiderio and Richard F. Horgan for many years. Richard Connolly and John Troy were also instrumental in the chapter’s earlier work and charitable eff orts. Capone has served as the organization’s legal counsel for more than two decades. The trustee, pursuant to the terms of the trust, recently decided that coordinating the scholarship fund is best left to the Everett Public Schools (EPS), which can carry on this tradition every June by awarding the “Disabled Veterans’ Camp Corporation/Janet Connolly O’Neil Memorial Scholarship.” The late Janet Connolly O’Neil was a beloved Everett educator and a former Webster School assistant principal. The Disabled Veterans’ Camp Corporation/Janet Connolly O’Neil Memorial Scholarship will be presented to an Everett High School senior who has maintained a minimum of a 4.0 grade point average and is planning to attend a four-year college or university to pursue a career in medicine and/or the health sciences. “Naturally, it will be our honor to maintain this scholarship program well into the future,” Tahiliani said. “While the membership of Chapter 51 has dwindled in recent years, the mission and core values of the DAV will endure. I know I speak for everyone in the EPS when I say it will be a privilege to recognize this organization and the memory of Ms. O’Neil as part of our annual scholarship awards night.” Capone expressed his sincere appreciation, on behalf of the scholarship fund trustee and former Everett Chapter, that the school department will continue the Everett DAV’s proud tradition. ׉ 7cassandra://_8LejtbSpH3TurDOJLOvBZ_RltIteZZWHcaFL9bhdeQ `̰_[\uCV׉ETHE EVERETT ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 17 BY JIM MILLER What Caregivers Should Know About Medicare Dear Savvy Senior, I am the caregiver for my 81-year-old mother, who recently fell and broke her hip, and have a lot of questions about how original Medicare works and what it covers. Where can I get some help understanding this program? Overwhelmed Caregiver Dear Caregiver, Excellent question! Having a working knowledge of Medicare can help you take full advantage of the coverage and services it provides to ensure your mom receives the best care possible. Here’s what you should know. Medicare Assistance A good starting point to get familiar with Medicare is the offi cial “Medicare & You” handbook that overviews the program. It’s mailed to all benefi ciaries every fall and provides an up-to-date description of all services and benefi ts. You can also see it online at Medicare.gov/ medicare-and-you. If you have a particular question, you can call and visit with a Medicare customer service representative at 800-633-4227. Medicare also works closely with State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP) to provide free health insurance counseling. To fi nd a SHIP counselor in your area visit ShiptaCenter.org or call 877-839-2675. Caregivers also fi nd Medicare’s secure website – MyMedicare.gov – especially useful. After setting up a personal account for your mom, you can view the details of her coverage, track recent health care claims and keep up to date on the preventive services she qualifi es for. Compare Tools Medicare can also help you locate the right health care providers for your mother. At Medicare.gov/care-compare you can fi nd and compare doctors, hospitals, home health agencies, dialysis facilities, inpatient rehab facilities, long-term care hospitals and nursing homes in your mom’s area. What Medicare Covers Medicare can reduce many out-of-pocket medical expenses your mom incurs, but it doesn’t cover everything. Understanding what Medicare does and doesn’t cover can save you time and spare you frustration when navigating the caregiving maze. Here are some key points for caregivers: Besides basic hospital and physician services (which includes telehealth services) and optional prescription drug benefi ts, Medicare covers home health care too. To qualify, your mom must be homebound, under a physician’s care and in need of part-time skilled nursing care or rehabilitative services like physical therapy. Medicare also helps pay for oxygen, catheters and other medical supplies that a doctor prescribes for home use. The same is true for medically necessary equipment like oxygen machines, wheelchairs and walkers. In addition, Medicare covers skilled care in a nursing home for limited periods – up to 100 days – following hospital stays. But it doesn’t cover long-term stays. Patients who need custodial care (room and board) must pay out of pocket unless they’re eligible for Medicaid or have private long-term care insurance. Medicare pays for hospice care too, for someone with a terminal illness whose doctor expects to live six months or less. The hospice benefi t also includes brief periods of respite care at a hospice facility, hospital or nursing home to give the patient’s caregivers an occasional rest. Besides long-term nursing home stays, original Medicare typically doesn’t cover regular dental care or dentures, regular eye exams or eyeglasses, and hearing exams and hearing aids. Likewise, it won’t pay for nonemergency ambulance trips unless a doctor certifi es they’re medically necessary. To fi nd out what Medicare covers, visit Medicare.gov/coverage and type in the test, item or service you have questions about, or download the Medicare “What’s covered” app in either the App Store or Google Play. Financial Assistance If your mom lives on a limited income, you should check whether she qualifi es for help with prescription drug costs or with other Medicare-related premiums, deductibles and copayments. For help with drug costs, visit SSA.gov/prescriptionhelp or contact Social Security at 800-772-1213 and ask about the “Extra Help Program.” For help with other Medicare costs, go to Medicare.gov or call 800-6334227 and ask about the “Medicare Savings Programs.” Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book. “E” Club annual Meeting Jan. 11 on Zoom T he "E" Club president Vincent Ragucci, Jr. cordially invites you to the annual meeting on January 11, at 5:30PM. Due to the circumstances, this year's meeting will be available to watch on Zoom. If you have any questions, contact the "E" Club secretary, John Ragucci at Jragucci@verizon.net or Daryl Colson, the “E” Club Webmaster, darylcolson@comcast.net. on Zoom Meeting. https://us02web.zoom. us/j/85303980619?p - w d=a2h5NGJIKzVD - cVGNk10N2YrZVlUdz09 Meeting ID: 853 0398 0619 Passcode: 630364 One tap mobile + 16465588656,,85303980 619#,,,,,,0#,,630364# US (New York) + 13017158592,,853039806 19#,,,,,,0#,,630364# US (Washington D.C) Dial by your location + 1 646 558 8656 US (New York) ington D.C) cago) Jose) + 1 301 715 8592 US (Wash+ 1 312 626 6799 US (Chi+ 1 669 900 9128 US (San + 1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) + 1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) Meeting ID: 853 0398 0619 Passcode: 630364 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/ kcfeSP1wVE We have now made it easier than ever to join or renew your existing membership online: https://www.eclubofeverett.com/memberships-1 You may also make a donation at any time here: https:// www.eclubofeverett.com/donate We wish everyone a happy and safe holiday season. Baker announces $668M small business relief package T he Baker-Polito Administration recently launched a $668 million program to provide fi nancial assistance to Massachusetts small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program in part relies on the federal COVID-19 relief bill signed into law on December 27, 2020. The Baker-Polito Administration will soon start releasing millions in new funding to restaurants, retailers and other small businesses throughout the Commonwealth. The Administration announced nearly $49 million in grants through the Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC) COVID-19 Small Business Grant Program to support over 1,158 small businesses. More than 10,000 applicants had sought relief in this grant round. Additional grants will be made available to eligible small businesses through MGCC. The Small Business Grant Program was established in the fall, and currently has a pool of eligible applicants awaiting funding. This additional funding will allow the Administration to award more of those pending applicants. Eligible businesses that already applied to the program, but were not funded due to limited funds available, will be prioritized for funding fi rst and do not need to reapply. The funds will also be used to stand up an additional grant program at the MGCC. This program will target the industries most hard-hit during the pandemic. Eligible industries for the new program include: • Restaurants, bars, caterers • Indoor recreation and entertainment establishments • Gyms and fi tness centers • Event-support professionals (photographers, videographers, etc.) • Personal services • Retail The new business relief program would off er grants up to $75,000, but not more than three months’ operating expenses, to be used for employee wage and benefits costs, space-related costs and debt service obligations. The online application portal for the new program will close on Friday, January 15. Awards are expected to be announced in early February. More details on how to apply and eligibility requirements are available at www.empoweringsmallbusiness.org. ׉ 7cassandra://2CZHGusJWJX4j1b9ll4porWTy643XNFb52wxerpZZtk(`̰_[\uCW_[\uCV PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://qrcLB5K4mha-Lq1Vl6wmNVbi0w8QBiQkxKNckU52WF0`)׉ 7cassandra://woHE9ZO5bpYQ6gkwrLNHaOau9U0Gi9eSEsC_1V4eDFÀ`J׉ 7cassandra://M6BIANzahlqJ_TkejkRSIISwoHW_MmXSdbnPMZbd_Sw'`̰׉ 7cassandra://QSnocgLhP3bBA0fgVUvNTbRnZ9Gn6NWQ2YQi6kidwWM{Ī͠_[\uCט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://eRM6jw7CDcwHFRdTKXDG19QhJa7iBx5HkqdTb98Ps_c`)׉ 7cassandra://RnVu49J-3RTX6-DOiJiVN6_krikN33Q2M16Q3XIZEDk͚*`J׉ 7cassandra://1Cr7IwKT_xA2N_gOYQAYvvkNIGbXszhrRt5V4Z1Wj-I(`̰׉ 7cassandra://tuCex1m4z0V6qulJth6NAyvtsYsnHMywx3uhOssfw7U2^A\͠_[\uCנ_ [\uCdFM 9ׁHhttp://show.comׁ ׁ Јנ_ [\uC0̃ 9ׁHhttp://www.boׁ ׁ Ј׉E Page 18 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 OBITUARIES Robert J. "Bob" Bruce aunts, uncles, in-laws and many friends. Bob loved playing darts alongside his Godson, Christopher Bruce. Bob worked as the Director of Maintenance at Tremont on the Common in Boston for 32 years and will be missed by his coworkers, staff and residents of the building. In lieu of fl owers, donations can be made to the American Diabetes Foundation. William “Billy” T. Harrington III Of Methuen, formerly of Everett, passed away suddenly at age 62. Beloved husband of Susan (Achorn). Loving father of Nicole Bruce and her fiancé Brandon, and Bobby Bruce Jr and step-father of John Marsinelli, Joshua Marsinelli and the late Justin Marsinelli. Proud grandfather to one grandson Wyatt. Beloved son of Lorraine Bruce and the late Edward. Brother of Stephen Bruce and his wife Linda, Nancy Easson and her husband Billy, James Bruce and his wife Deborah. Bob will be dearly missed by all of his loving nieces, nephews, cousins, Jr. and Evelyn (Moore). Beloved husband of 29 years to Ann (Leoshena). Devoted father of Christine Cook of Topsfield. Dear brother of Nancy Duval McHugh and her late husbands Dr. Francis Duval and James McHugh. Cherished grandfather of Mason Cook. Also survived by loving nieces and nephews. William retired as Principal of Parlin Junior High School in Everett. Margaret L. (Mercer) MacDonald 2020. Beloved wife of the late Arthur T. MacDonald. Devoted mother of Christopher MacDonald-Dennis and husband Frederic and the late Robert J. MacDonald. Dear sister of John Mercer, Jr and late wife Phyllis and Trudy Mercer. Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews , great-nieces and nephews. Sebastiano Tolu alena Bonamici and husband Tonino, Pietro Tolu, Pasquale Tolu and his wife Vanda and the late Giuseppe Tolu, Giovanni Tolu, and Francesco Tolu. He is survived by his six cherished grandchildren Marisa, Luca, Ryan, Alec, Liana and Leo. Also, survived by many loving nieces, nephews and cousins. Donations in Sebastiano’s memory may be made to Mystic Valley Elder Services, 300 Commercial Street # 19, Malden MA 02148 or MVES.ORG. Of Everett passed away surrounded by his loving family on December 20, 2020 at the age of 79. Born in Everett on August 21, 1941 to the late Dr. William T. Harrington Of Charlton formerly of Everett, passed away on December 28, Of Everett on December 22, 2020. Beloved husband of the late Lucia. Loving father of Renato Tolu and his former spouse Theresa, Mary Celli and her husband Scott and Robert Tolu and his wife Anastasia. Loving brother of MaddFOR ADVERTISING WITH RESULTS, CALL THE ADVOCATE NEWSPAPERS AT 617-387-2200 OR INFO@ADVOCATENEWS.NET ׉ 7cassandra://M6BIANzahlqJ_TkejkRSIISwoHW_MmXSdbnPMZbd_Sw'`̰_[\uCX׉E