׉?4ׁB!בCטUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://eyNCmWZA22NwpEMCfqjNzpwOr0SC1Y0GNel9kwfp93Ik`'p׉ 7cassandra://-ZzMQp8bB--_cbBF-BG4nmDe8wZlATaOGzs5xkX0t6Uͮ`׉ 7cassandra://RE4GG0B_Sb3NBWQcZx8F4aqZNiy8KrRj0YwL8IfXWoo3`jO2$!KנjO2$!K ̿ 9ׁHhttp://www.advocatenews.netׁ ׁ Ј׈EjO2$!K׉EEV RETEVT V E ER T Vol. 35, No.27 -FREET www.advocatenews.net Your Local News & Sports Online! Scan & Subscribe! ADDOCCO TEAT Free Every Friday Community weighs in on planned Connolly Center renovation 617-387-2200 Friday, July 10, 2026 Monthlong Everett drug operation leads to dozens of arrests, major narcotics seizures Advocate Staff Report E verett Police’s Special Criminal Investigations Unit (SCIU) conducted a monthlong narcotics enforcement initiative in June 2026 dubbed “Operation Street Sweeper,” targeting suspected drug dealers, fugitives, repeat problem locations and quality-of-life concerns throughout the city. On June 1, detectives conPictured are Architect Mark McKevitz, Sustainability Manager Kate Jenkins, Connolly Center Facilities Manager Angelo Febbo and Owner’s Project Manager Stephen Michener. (Advocate photo) By Neil Zolot T he Edward G. Connolly Center was built in 1902 and served as an armory before it was turned over to the City of Everett by the National Guard in the 1970s. It is the home of the Council on Aging (COA) and its programs, the Veterans Center and the Adult Learning Center. It is also used for many social and political RENOVATION | SEE PAGE 8 F. J. LaRovere Insurance Agency, Inc. 492 Broadway Everett, MA 02149 617-387-9700 phone 617-387-9702 fax INSURANCE FOR AUTO, HOME, AND BUSINESS We offer very competitive rates, and by representing many different companies we can shop for the best price for our customers. Call us today! Open Monday – Friday 9am-5pm and Saturdays 9am-12pm Messinger Insurance Agency 475 Broadway Everett, MA 02149 617-387-2700 phone 617-387-7753 fax ducting surveillance near Elm Street observed what they believed to be a drug transaction outside a neighborhood market. Police arrested Michael Tillinghast on charges of distribution of a Class B substance, possession of a Class C substance with intent to distribute and possession of a Class B substance. Police also arrested Christopher Abruzzese, charging him with possession of a Class B substance and possession of a Class E substance. On June 2, detectives conducted an undercover operation targeting street-level cocaine sales throughout Everett. During the investigation, an undercover offi cer allegedly purchased crack cocaine from Jamie Surillo, 39, of Malden. Surillo was charged with distribution of a Class B substance and a failure-to-appear warrant. Police said he was also taken into custody as a fugitive from justice for charges pending outside Massachusetts. During the same investigation, detectives stopped a vehicle they said met with Surillo before the alleged drug sale. Erica Mullen, 30, of East Boston, was arrested following the stop. On June 3, detectives arrested Kevin Joseph Callahan, 59, on an outstanding warrant. Police also arrested Luiz Gustavo Defatima, 35, on an outstanding warrant. Detectives said they recovered four bags of fentanyl from Defatima and also seized bank cards and other property believed to belong to someone else. He was additionally charged with possession of a Class A substance. Also on June 3, Robert Bailot, 38, of Everett, was arrested and charged with operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. On June 4, detectives arrested Erica Marie Messina, 41, on two outstanding warrants. On June 5, police arrested Jennifer Festa of Medford. Festa was arrested on two outstanding warrants and additionally charged with possession of methamphetamine. Detectives also reported seizing suspected stolen property, including bank cards. Later that day, detectives arrested Brittany Hersey, 36, on an outstanding warrant. A separate regional narcotics investigation culminated on June 8 when members of the Boston Police Drug Control Units in East Boston and downtown Boston, working with Everett Police, Revere Police and the Massachusetts State Police, arrested John Gil-Zapata, 39, of Revere. Authorities executed four search warrants tarARRESTS | SEE PAGE 4 ׉ 7cassandra://RE4GG0B_Sb3NBWQcZx8F4aqZNiy8KrRj0YwL8IfXWoo3`jO2$!KjO2$!K rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://9nsmjGBMiIdORpTt1EB3UO3kBmaiYY0UJEDmXA54L2gR`'p׉ 7cassandra://VkUB_x-L_9UVAC14QIK7tFmga-y4pqUVIwHs1ejyKaU=`׉ 7cassandra://4zqttXCXwZlMXxX90TMZkZ9A2SN3LQ2B3xWzxffOKjo<`jO2$!KטUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://67b9vneRm1CwgjBLUc4YAnXsveFpFyyZV26vA-E_YU0`'p׉ 7cassandra://BVeUEC4HLn2xcK0X6oUEo62tOZ272zHYlxyjGGR2Rh8Ͳj`׉ 7cassandra://BeP1bfhzXK4bu3I0hNgBxSEa1wfs7gxN4G5oUW0txO08`jO2$!KנjO2$!KE9׉H!https://email.meritpages.com/ss/c/u001.2MAbPpABZpoNwpazzwdE_mJtXTnikqnNRPzCbI-b8rPL7d2LiJhKX71UVJAgdPD73Wm3icQ2iVsJ3ky2DVaye70VODIKFRiq2xB28vWw-uw1Q_kSRUvd2PHEYX_kyyvJIpxBSSHcA_AjZH7A1jFXedbE8ZsSrhrzkElr5LF6z0E/4rz/su7qf1VRSAKs6mo08cW1ZA/h1/h001.HLpRPgE_cwP6nbJj5ChXSzsug-OzyjhZHvEZjnJv9ioGׁ ׁ rנjO2$!Kyb^9׉H!https://email.meritpages.com/ss/c/u001.2MAbPpABZpoNwpazzwdE_v7rWDQbu_gF7tCHPEKsJNvGxhSRwFnkMV-LkVtt4oibuB90CRhR3b7QVOnnRw-2CyY3EdL7gyyg74CwdmjcbY7u1BtCfFRO3eBPfejU1tvg8MiwHs8kttUeBQ-rzZqQO_8rVRuUGgAbxZz-3DXdPZw/4rz/su7qf1VRSAKs6mo08cW1ZA/h2/h001.HcEcRdudwIwjLPVBoE-rv8g8Ojr8BWh1NeafCTYfrJAGׁ ׁ rנjO2$!K[9ׁHhttp://WWW.SABATINO-INS.COMׁ ׁ ЈנjO2$!K L$9ׁHmailto:Maldenab@yahoo.comׁ ׁ ЈנjO2$!K U̐9ׁHhttp://Maldenauto.comׁ ׁ ЈנjO2$!K"I9ׁHhttp://years.Thׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 2 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, July 10, 2026 Local student makes Q4 Honor Roll at BC High T he following Everett student made the Q4 Honor Roll at BC High for the 2025-2026 school year: Tyler Open Tues. - Sat. at 4:00 PM Closed Sun. & Mon. Announcing our Classic Specials Dine In Only: * FREE Salad with purchase of Entree, Tuesdays & Wednesdays * Cheese Pizza - Only $10 Catch ALL The Live Sports Action On Our Large Screen TV’s Scan & Follow Us on Facebook! Everett Council on Aging offers free selfdefense and strength class for older adults Program begins on July 16 at the Connolly Center Zhang, High Honors, Class of 2027. Please join us in celebrating Zhang’s accomplishment! 8 Norwood St. Everett (617) 387-9810 Special to The Advocate M ayor Robert J. Van Campen and the Everett Council on Aging are inviting residents age 60 and older to participate in a free self-defense and strength-building class at the Connolly Center. Beginning Thursday, July 16, the program will be led by Sensei Bill Powers and is designed specifically for older adults. Participants will improve their strength, balance, self-defense awareness and confidence in a fun, supportive and welcoming environment. “Helping our older adults stay active, healthy, and confident is an important part of building a strong community,” said Mayor Van Campen. “This program is a great opportunity for residents to improve their physical well-being while learning practical skills in a supportive setting.” Classes will be held every Thursday from 10 to 10:45 a.m. at the Connolly Center (90 Chelsea St.) for eight weeks. There is no cost to participate, but registration is required. To register or learn more, please contact Joanne at 617-394-2260. Northern Essex Community College Dean’s List C ongratulations to the Northern Essex Community College (NECC) students from Everett on the spring 2026 Dean’s List! To be included, students must attain a grade point average of 3.3 or higher within the term, carry six or more credits within the term and be matriculated in a degree program. The Everett students are Jonas Beauvoir, Silvia Portillo Villegas and John Benson Samuel. NECC, the first federally designated Hispanic Serving Institution in New England, has a supportive learning environment, embracing all identities and inspiring initiative and excellence through topnotch, affordable programs online and at campuses in Haverhill and Lawrence. NECC offers many bachelor’s degree transfer options, workforce development and community education classes, and it is host to the NECC Police Academy, MassHire Merrimack Valley and Gallaudet University’s Regional Center for the deaf and hard of hearing. For more info: www.necc. mass.edu. An interactive wildlife program for kids at the Shute W ith Summer Vacation (and the summer reading chalwww.810bargrille.com Aluminum Aluminum Everett Supplies 10 Everett Ave., Everett 617-389-3839 Celebrating 66 Years in Business! •Vinyl Siding Decks • • •Carpentry Work •Decks • Replacement Windows Carpentry Work • • • Fully Insured Fully Insured • Replacement Windows www.everettaluminum.com Free Estimates Fully Licensed • Roong •Free Estimates •Fully Licensed •Roong Now’s the time to schedule those home improvement projects you’ve been dreaming about all winter! lenge) in full swing, the Shute Memorial Library is excited to host author and wildlife ecologist Brad Timm for an engaging and educational program that was inspired by his new illustrated nature book, “America is Wild!” Timm takes children on a coastto-coast exploration of incredible animals and plants from all 50 States while building observation, critical thinking, teamwork and communication skills through exciting, hands-on challenges. Featuring high-energy activities like Habitat Adventure Stations, Animal Olympics, Wildlife Scavenger Hunts and more, this is not a presentation, but a fascinating adventure that keeps children eager to learn more! This program is designed for children seven to 12 years old. Location: Shute Children’s Library, 781 Broadway, Everett. When: Thursday, July 16, at 12 p.m. Interested in other summer programs at the Everett Public Libraries? Check out their online calendar at everettpubliclibraries.org. Summer is Here! ׉ 7cassandra://4zqttXCXwZlMXxX90TMZkZ9A2SN3LQ2B3xWzxffOKjo<`jO2$!K׉E THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, July 10, 2026 Page 3 City of Everett announces conclusion of ARPA-funded community meal program Meal program to end Aug. 31 after serving hundreds of Everett residents each week for six years Special to Th e Advocate the program. “This program has touched T he City of Everett announced that its American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)–funded community meal program will conclude on August 31, 2026, as the federal funding that made the program possible comes to an end. Since its launch six years ago, the program has provided meals to approximately 400 residents each week, off ering reliable food assistance to seniors and other community members in need. The initiative was made possible through ARPA, which provided temporary funding to support communities recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. With the expiration of ARPA funding, the City is no longer able to continue operating the lives of so many Everett residents over the past six years,” said Mayor Robert J. Van Campen. “We are thankful to the dedicated City staff , community partners, and residents who helped make it such a success. Now our priority is making sure participants know where they can turn for continued support.” The City also extends its sincere appreciation to the staff from the Mayor’s Office, Elder Services and the Inspectional Services Department, whose efforts helped operate the program, as well as the many residents who participated throughout the years.The City remains committed to ensuring residents continue to receive the support and services they need and thanks all participants for allowing the program to serve them. The City recognizes that this change may be diffi cult for some residents and is committed to helping participants transition to other available food assistance programs. Residents seeking assistance are encouraged to contact the Connolly Center (617394-2323) and Mystic Valley Elder Services (781-324-7705). Those organizations can help connect residents with services — Meals on Wheels, community meal and food programs and other available resources. For residents who have diffi culty traveling, transportation assistance may also be available through the City’s new van service. “WE’RE STILL HERE!” Since 1947 MALDEN AUTO BODY Book online: Maldenauto.com 49 Robin St., Everett, MA 617-389-3030 * Maldenab@yahoo.com Over 79 years of exceptional service! 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Investigators seized approximately 2,287 grams of cocaine, including an unopened kilogram brick, along with tens of thousands of dollars in cash and a motor vehicle. Gil-Zapata was charged with traffi cking 200 grams or more of cocaine and possession with intent to distribute a Class B substance. Also on June 8, Everett detectives conducting surveillance at the repeat problem location of 19 Hancock St. observed what they believed was a drug transaction. One individual was charged with possession of fentanyl. The investigation led detectives to stop Kymauri Jean-Lestin, 27, of Stoneham. Police said they recovered approximately 30 grams of fentanyl, about 20 grams of crack cocaine, $1,000 in cash and three cellphones. Jean-Lestin was charged with distribution of fentanyl, traffi cking more than 10 grams of fentanyl and traffi cking more than 18 grams of crack cocaine. Later that day, detectives arrested Christopher Coates, 42, of Everett, on a failure-to-appear warrant and additionally charged him with possession of methamphetamine. On June 9, detectives again focused enforcement eff orts around 19 Hancock St. Following what investigators believed was another street-level drug transaction, officers from Everett and Chelsea Police Departments made several arrests. One individual was summonsed to court on a charge of distribution of methamphetamine. Police arrested Alexander Bardash, 50, of Georgetown, charging him with possession of methamphetamine. Also arrested was Erica Briggs, 51, of Georgetown, who was charged with two counts of possession of a Class C drug. On June 10, detectives arrested Anthony DiRusso, 50, of Malden, on a failure-to-appear outstanding warrant. He was also charged with possession of fentanyl and possession of a Class C substance. Later that day, detectives investigating suspected crack cocaine distribution in Everett Square arrested three people. James Bradley, 33, of Lynn, was charged with distribution of crack cocaine, traffi cking approximately 97 grams of cocaine and conspiracy to violate the state’s drug laws. Melissa Abrams, 42, of Danvers, was charged with disorderly conduct, violating the city’s knife ordinance, possession and distribution of crack cocaine and conspiracy to violate the drug laws. Police said Abrams repeatedly yelled and disrupted the investigation despite several warnings before she was arrested. Offi cers seized approximately $5,500 in cash, cellphones, scales and packaging materials. Everett patrol offi cers, school resource offi cers and a Massachusetts State Police K-9 unit assisted during the incident. Danielle Gallant, 41, of Everett, was charged with possession of crack cocaine. On June 11, SCIU detectives conducting street-level narcotics enforcement arrested Dale Lundqueist, 56, of Everett, and charged him with possession of a Class B substance. Detectives also arrested Reginald Galette, 27, of Rockland, charging him with distribution of a Class B substance after observing what investigators believed was a drug transaction. Police said they seized crack cocaine, approximately $1,200 in cash and multiple cellphones. Later that day, SCIU detectives assisted the Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section in arresting Shami Grant, 26. According to police, Grant was wanted on multiple warrants issued by several jurisdictions and was taken into custody following a series of vehicle pursuits across the North Shore. Authorities said the warrants included allegations that Grant struck a Massachusetts State Police cruiser in Malden. On June 12, detectives arrested Sarah Darling, 56, of Everett, on a default warrant for failure to appear. On June 16, detectives arrested Jamie Monks, 37, of Everett, on a default warrant for failure to appear. On June 23, SCIU detectives assisted the Criminal Investigations Division in executing a search warrant on Waters Avenue in Everett. During the operation, Edward Senay, 49, was arrested and charged with possession of a Class A substance. On June 24, detectives arrested Neftaly Salerno, 36, of Everett, on a default warrant for failure to appear. He was also charged with possession of methamphetamine. Later that day, SCIU detectives concluded an undercover investigation into suspected crack cocaine distribution in Everett. Police arrested Daquan Shaqueel Sparks, 32, of Boston, after alleging he sold crack cocaine to an undercover detective during the investigation. Detectives also executed a search warrant on Sparks’ vehicle, recovering approximately 35 grams of cocaine. The arrest was assisted by the Massachusetts State Police Gang Unit, the Everett Police Impact Unit and the department’s Patrol Division. Mayor Robert J. Van Campen praised the results of the monthlong operation, crediting the collaboration between local and state law enforcement agencies. “This work reflects the impact of proactive policing and strong partnerships,” Van Campen said. “I thank Chief Strong, the Everett Police Department and our law enforcement partners for their continued dedication to keeping Everett safe.” Everett Police Chief Paul D. Strong commended the department’s Special Criminal Investigations Unit, Impact Unit and Patrol Division for their work throughout the operation. “I want to again recognize and commend the outstanding work of our drug unit for this successful operation, which resulted in multiple drug arrests, the seizure of illegal narcotics and signifi cant amounts of illicit proceeds,” Strong said. “The success of this operation is a direct refl ection of exceptional planning, dedication and a relentless commitment to keeping this community safe.” Strong also thanked the department’s law enforcement partners, including the Boston Police Drug Control Units from Districts A-1 and A-7, the Revere Police Department and the Massachusetts State Police, for their assistance during the investigation. YOUR LOCAL NEWS & SPORTS IN SIX LANGUAGES. SUBSCRIBE TO THE ADVOCATE ONLINE BY SCANNING HERE! ׉ 7cassandra://pxSMtc5uHTQmY-ggqDtnorAHHFn1W4cCyV5n3qgPWb44`jO2$!K׉ETHE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, July 10, 2026 Page 5 Welcome back to the International Sand Sculpting Festival July 17-July 19, Revere Beach T he Revere Beach International Sand Sculpting Festival is back! This renowned event will feature a weekend fi lled with art from our master sand sculptors, and family fun! This festival brings in hundreds of thousands to Revere Beach over the threeday course. We invite you to join us July 17-19th at Revere Beach for an experience you’ll never forget. The theme for this year’s event will be Boston Welcomes the World. Attendees will witness an extraordinary display of skill as 10 master sand sculptors from across the world compete for prize money. The festival will take over the shores of America’s fi rst public beach as we celebrate artistry, culture, and community. Beyond the sand sculptures, the event features over 50 food vendors, food trucks and exhibitors, interactive activities, amusement rides, fi reworks, and a vibrant atmosphere. We can’t wait to see everyHISTORY MADE: Revere City Councillor Joanne McKenna, Michael Lepage, Revolution 250 Executive Director Jonathan Lane, Revere Mayor Patrick Keefe, Jr., Tom Coots, State Rep. Jessica Giannino and Revere City Councillor Angela Guarino-Sawaya with reenactors on Revere Beach during last year’s 21st Annual Revere Beach International Sand Sculpting Festival. (Advocate fi le photo) one at the beach this summer for the 22nd year of the International Sand Sculpting Festival! MORE SUPP MORE SOLUTIONS. LESS WORR PP OLUTIONS. RR. Clear answers, faster decisions, and a t to get things done. We make it easy for Because here, easy means more. r o ge EverettBank.com ׉ 7cassandra://uxP0RrfNukEWtgnY604j7p9YMyCwkJoonlJN9eeAZCM1|`jO2$!KjO2$!K rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://viSUhl31E0SpLFm1UmBxnKmKHM40XI7DbNYra24f-0Ei`'p׉ 7cassandra://Hq-PmJ_N6uDyEdqhvJV9IvtzYw2nUzXDUyjrH4KVv8g͹`׉ 7cassandra://ePMXk-e8VnU1xdfFNqLeYvVCMtBQ1N9T6fhytCF4iZI<`jO2$!KטUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://GSXWD6FOH6JRLu0XZ1iKEcCDz27yLE0GbhUA04ZFHMA`'p׉ 7cassandra://Aueyagox6FFdyEW66Dal-l8APSfI-hhAevYFMcnN_S8ͯ`׉ 7cassandra://oP1v2_WTBqfcuzb7l4jXqjiWvT5j3zuhSQw6sdmNg_g5`jO2$!K‘נjO2$!Kȁ&9ׁH mailto:lsimeonejr@simeonelaw.netׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 6 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, July 10, 2026 Sen. DiDomenico celebrates Early Intervention program successes at 50th anniversary S tate Senator Sal DiDomenico spoke at the 50th anniversary celebration of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which was hosted by the Massachusetts Early Intervention Consortium and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. For half a century, the Early Intervention (EI) program has ensured that eligible infants, toddlers and their families get the critGerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law Is Your Estate in Order? Do you have an update Will, Health Care Proxy or Power of Attorney? If Not, Please Call for a Free Consultation. 14 Proctor Avenue, Revere (781) 284-5657 J& • Reliable Mowing Service • Spring & Fall Cleanups • Mulch & Edging • Sod or Seed Lawns • Shrub Planting & Trimming • Water & Sewer Repairs Joe Pierotti, Jr. championed this program in the State House throughout my career, and I will continue to advocate for its critical funding as long as I am in office.” S LANDSCAPE & MASONRY CO. 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