MASK UP AND STAY SAFE ALL SUMMER! Vol.29, No.30 -FREEwww.advocatenews.net Free Every Friday School Committee approves Equity Advisory Board on split vote By Th e Advocate O n Tuesday night the Revere School Committee approved Member Anthony D’Ambrosio’s motion to create a districtwide Equity Advisory Board. The Board, to be comprised of educators, parents, students and other community members, will devise policy solutions to address systemic inequities that have impacted traditionally marginalized students in Revere Public Schools. This appears to be the fi rst time that an equity advisory board has been used by a school committee not only in Revere, but also in the local region. D’Ambrosio said, “Change is often a diffi cult thing to eff ectuate. There are always reasons not to change. That is the insidious nature of systemic inequity, and that is why we must keep the faith and do what is right.” The motion was approved 4-3, but only after signifi cant debate among the members of the School Committee. Speaking in opposition to the Equity Advisory Board was School Committee Member Stacey Rizzo, who questioned whether the Revere Public Schools is the right place for such a board and wondered if it “should be out of City Hall or out of the Mayor’s Offi ce.” Riz781-286-8500 Friday, July 24, 2020 Revere Beach Partnership launches Ambassador Program BEACH SAFETY: Pictured from left to right, are; The HYM Investment Group Site Activation Manager Jessica Feroli, Ward 2 Councillor Ira Novoselsky, Revere Beach Partnership President Jeff Turco, Save The Harbor/Save The Bay Executive Director Chris Mancini, Mae Mancini, 7, and Mayor Brian Arrigo by the newly installed sanitization stations. They are equipped with a scannable QR code that will direct people to a webpage that contains safe use guidelines for the beach. (Advocate photo by Tara Vocino) Special to Th e Advocate T ANTHONY D’AMBROSIO School Committee Member zo ultimately voted against the motion. D’Ambrosio was grateful to $1.59 GALLON We accept: MasterCard * Visa * & Discover Price Subject to Change without notice 100 Gal. Min. 24 Hr. Service 781-286-2602 Mayor Brian Arrigo and School Committee Members Carol Tye and Susan Gravellese for their support. Referencing the Equity Advisory Board, Tye remarked that “This is the beginning of something that is huge,” and expressed her desire that the composition of the Board refl ect the demographics of Revere. Gravellese also noted that it had “been COMMITTEE | SEE PAGE 9 he Revere Beach Partnership (RBP) as well as its partners the City of Revere and the state Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR) announced the launch of RBP’s newest initiative, the Ambassador Program. This program is designed to assist in the effort of allowing beachgoers the ability to enjoy the beach safely and healthily. The COVID-19 pandemic has had far-reaching implications and has aff ected every facet of life, most noticeably personal recreation. As recreation facilities and public beaches are fl ourishing across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, patrons must use these areas in a safe manner in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19. RBP along with its partners developed the Ambassador Program to promote and ensure the continued safe use of Revere Beach during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The Revere Beach Partnership is committed to showcasing America’s First Public Beach,” said RBP President Jeffrey Turco. “We are pleased to announce the Ambassador Program which will put considerAMBASSADOR | SEE PAGE 12 Parents prefer returning to school in the fall, students opt for a hybrid model By Tara Vocino A fter welcoming new hires – Rumney Marsh Academy Principal Heather Bobb and SeaCoast High School Principal Stacey Mulligan – Superintendent of Schools Dr. Dianne Kelly shared the reopening survey results during Tuesday’s four-hour School Committee meeting over Zoom. “Although this a fluid sitIncoming SeaCoast High School Principal Stacey Mulligan hopes to make it a welcoming experience for all families, especially since her children are dyslexic and have Attention Defi cit Hyperactivity Disorder. (Advocate photo by Tara Vocino) uation and situations may change, 83 percent of parents said they anticipate sending their children back to school in the fall,” Kelly said. “However, approximately 2,300 students prefer either a hybrid situation or in-person gatherings.” Approximately 41 percent of students answered the survey, making that 3,221 students. According to Kelly, 1,145 students don’t prefer online learning, although 97 percent of families reported that they have Internet access at home. In the survey, 33 percent of parents are pleased with their students’ progress in remote learning; 17 percent aren’t pleased; and 50 percent are somewhat pleased. Approximately 63 percent of parents would be comfortable with early release (around 1 p.m.), the survey indicates. A staff survey had 903 reSCHOOL | SEE PAGE 13
Page 2 THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 RevereTV Spotlight T he Revere Farmers’ Market is open for business every Friday throughout the summer! The market is on the lawn of American Legion Hall at 249 Broadway. RevereTV attended opening day on July 10 to get a look at what’s new this year. This footage has been playing on our TV channels but can also be watched on the RTV Facebook and YouTube pages. As you might know, this year’s International Sand Sculpting Festival at Revere Beach is cancelled. However, RevereTV is still celebrating the event by airing full coverage from years past. This week you’ll see everything from the year 2013. RevereTV met up with sculptor Abe Waterman last week to create a comical public service announcement about the cancellation of this year’s festival. Watch Comcast channel 8 and 1027 or RCN channel 3 and 614 for this public service ANGELO’S FULL SERVICE "42 Years of Excellence!" 1978-2020 Regular Unleaded $1.939 Mid Unleaded $2.399 Super $2.459 Diesel Fuel $2.459 KERO $4.159 Diesel $2.219 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 announcement and our throwback series. Sand sculpting playlists are always available on the RTV YouTube page, organized by year. The RTV staff completed the set-up of what will be a new hybrid model for city government meetings. Most City Council members will be physically present in the City Council Chambers at City Hall during these meetings, while some will be present via Zoom. Public attendees will also be present through Zoom as they call in. RevereTV made it possible for city offi cials to be able to clearly see and hear all who participate in the meetings, and also for those participating through Zoom to see and hear the members who are physically present. The fi rst hybrid meeting will take place on Monday, July 27, and they will continue on from there. City government meetings will always air live on RevereTV’s social media pages and channels. For Comcast customers, this channel is 9, and for RCN customers, this channel is 13 or 613. T Sierra Club Massachusetts endorses Gravellese for State Rep he Massachusetts chapter of the Sierra Club – one of the nation’s foremost environmental advocacy organizations – has endorsed Joe Gravellese for State Representative in the upcoming Democratic primary on September 1 in the 16th Suffolk District. “The communities of Chelsea, Revere, and Saugus are disproportionately impacted by environmental injustices and COVID-19,” said Sierra Club Massachusetts Political Director Jonathan Cohn. “The Sierra Club is proud to endorse Joe Gravellese, who will represent this diverse district and act on his commitment to stronger environmental enforcement, environmental justice, and 100% clean energy.” “I’m grateful to have the Sierra Club in my corner,” said Gravellese. “Seven years ago I worked alongside environmental advocates like the Sierra Club to shut down a polluting coal plant in Salem, and pass legislation to hold utility companies accountable for gas leaks. They’ve seen fi rsthand that my commitment to environmental justice isn’t just an election year slogan – it’s a lifelong interest in researching, learning about, and acting on policy.” “When it comes to addressJOE GRAVELLESE Candidate for State Representative ing the environmental hazards in our communities, like gas leaks, the trash-burning incinerator in Saugus, and increasing storms and fl ooding, the advocates who know these issues best, like Sierra Club and Sunrise Boston, are backing my candidacy, because they know I have the passion, knowledge, and track record needed to make a diff erence.” Free COVID-19 Testing Site to Operate at Revere High School July 27-August 13 Testing will be available from July 27- August 13 as part of the Baker-Polito Administration “Stop the Spread” initiative REVERE — Mayor Brian Arrigo and the Revere Board of Health announce a free COVID-19 testing site will operate at Revere High School from July 27- August 13 as part of the Baker-Polito Administration “Stop the Spread” initiative. Walk-up and drive-thru testing will be available Monday through Saturday in the Revere High School parking lot at no cost, with no insurance, no identifi cation and no appointment required. Results will be communicated to the individual within 2-3 days. The testing site hours of operation are: • Monday, 7AM-11AM • Tuesday, 3PM-8PM • Wednesday, 7AM-11AM • Thursday, 3PM-8PM • Friday, 7AM-11AM • Saturday, 3PM-8PM “Testing is one of the most important tools we have to contain the spread of Covid-19 and I’m encouraging everyone to take advantage of this opportunity,” Mayor Arrigo said. “We know that convenience and cost are key and are grateful to the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Department of Public Health for providing Revere residents with this resource.” This “Stop the Spread” initiative is a data-driven eff ort to reduce the prevalence of COVID-19 in communities that are above the state average in total cases and positive test rate, and have experienced a decline in testing levels since April. Residents of Revere are urged to take advantage of the availability of this new testing opportunity, even if they are asymptomatic. While this site is being launched in Revere, it is open to all residents of the Commonwealth. Residents are reminded that if they test positive for COVID-19, to please answer the call when they are contacted by the Community Tracing Collaborative or Revere Board of Health. Also, any individual who needs a safe place to isolate can call (617) 367-5150 to access an isolation and recovery site at no cost. Prices subject to change FLEET
THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 Page 3 District turns to neighboring communities for reopening Rally in support of police at City Hall on Monday I n response to the backlash facing the good and honest police officers in Revere and throughout the nation, local residents will be hosting a Back the Blue standout in front of Revere City Hall on Monday, July 27 at 5:00 p.m. All Revere residents are invited to come out and support our First Responders who risk their lives on a daily basis. This will be a family-friendly event. During Tuesday’s School Committee Meeting, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Dianne Kelly shared how the district will partner with other towns to reopen safely in the fall. (Advocate photo by Tara Vocino) By Tara Vocino T he superintendent shared reopening strategies during Tuesday’s School Committee meeting over Zoom. According to Superintendent of Schools Dr. Dianne Kelly, the district is partnering with consultant Barbara Crock to identify similar areas. “We will leverage our partnership between Malden, Everett, Chelsea, Winthrop and Revere to identify areas we can work together,” Kelly said. “We will share staff in order to align our eff orts.” Under the direction of a Harvard University planning group, Susan B. Anthony Middle School, Staff Sgt. James J. Hill Elementary School and Beachmont Veterans Memorial School are used as pilot schools, providing medical and health/safety guidance, and serving as design models for how to function in hybrid and remote environments. Kelly said they’re staying on cutting edge technology to ensure a safe return to school. A.B.C. CIGAR 170 REVERE ST., REVERE (781) 289-4959 Same Location * Same Service for 48 Years! Chris Dan Steve We Welcome You Back & Wish You Well! * Desktop Humidors * Travel Humidors * Vapes * Juice * Cigar Accessories * Bongs * Lighters & Ash Trays * Glass Pipes * Gift Cards * Rewards Program * Juuls * CBD Infused Products Cigar of the Month! Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real Magnum Box of 20 - Only $149.95 Buy your Cigars by the Box & Save! Plus our “Golfers’ Special” 15 Handmade Cigars - Churchill Size including a Cohiba! Only $43.95 STORE HOURS 8 AM - 7 PM Mon. - Sat., Sun. 8 AM - 6 PM
Page 4 THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 ~ OP-ED ~ Generational responsibility: My plan to support senior citizens By Joe Gravellese, candidate for State Representative I believe in generational responsibility. This means we all have the obligation to make the world a little bit better for the next generation. It also means we have the obligation to support senior citizens as they age. Fulfilling our generational responsibility to the young and to the aging requires shared sacrifi ce, but it is the right thing to do. Earlier this year, I rolled out my policy for investing in youth. Today, I introduce my plan for supporting senior citizens if elected as your next State Representative on September 1. Health care costs One of the biggest issues facing all generations, but especially seniors, is healthcare costs. In November, the State Senate passed a bill to create more transparency around drug prices, and cap the price of critical medication like insulin. The House should pass similar legislation, and if elected, I will support it. There are bills pending that I have previously spoken in support of, which would allow for the import of lower-cost prescription drugs from Canada, and for the bulk purchase and distribution of medications with widespread public health benefi ts. Another needed bill, supported by the Massachusetts Nurses Association, is the Hospital Profi t Transparency and Fairness Act. Big hospitals receive taxpayer funds, but shirk their responsibility to the community by closing hospitals in poorer areas, shuttering services, and raising prices. Right now, the public has no way of knowing how much these ever-expanding hospital groups are spending on things like marketing and executive salaries. This bill would require hospitals to be transparent about their holdings and their spending, and claw back public funds if they are spending egregiously on expenses that don’t improve the health of patients. Housing While housing costs are often framed as an issue for my generation, they are increasingly squeezing seniors, too – especially seniors on fi xed incomes. Seniors who rent are seeing rents swallow up their incomes. Seniors who own will not feel the benefi t of increasing property values, but do feel the pain of property taxes. Massachusetts attracts smart and successful people from all over the country. This is a good thing, but those doing well here need to invest in the health and well-being aging aunt, Nonna or Papa keeps families together and creates affordable housing that fits within the context of existing neighborhoods. Mobility Massachusetts must ensure mobility for seniors, who may struggle to get to grocery stores, churches, and other public buildings. This is why my platform for fi xing JOE GRAVELLESE Candidate for State Representative of the rest of the Commonwealth. Closing tax loopholes, reversing tax cuts on the very wealthy, and shoring up the Community Preservation Act can help us invest in our decaying stock of public and subsidized housing, which many seniors and veterans rely on to have a safe home. We also need to enact policies that will ensure that seniors and people with disabilities have a place to live. Chelsea has an ordinance requiring a percentage of new development be aff ordable, and it’s time Revere does the same – with a focus on housing for seniors and veterans, like the project on Shirley Avenue that has provided a supportive home for those who have served our country. Additionally, in Revere, Mayor Arrigo successfully pushed for the adoption of a 10% residential exemption for low-income seniors. While a State Representative does not control this, I would use my platform to urge that this be expanded to 20%. Seniors would also benefi t from legislation to legalize “in-law” apartments. Allowing for the legal creation of small units to house an public transportation is so important, as for many seniors, the bus or the train provides an essential connection to the community. Additionally, we must strengthen the future of paratransit programs like The RIDE. One idea already being piloted is partnering with ride sharing services for “ondemand” accessible rides. Something else we should consider is splitting The RIDE’s budget away from the T, and funding the RIDE separately as an essential service for seniors. Building community for seniors One of the heartbreaking things about COVID-19 has been seeing senior centers shuttered. While senior centers across the district are doing their best to stay connected through online programs, we’re seeing more than ever how vital these community-building programs are. When senior centers eventually reopen, they need continued support. I will make sure support for elder services is at the top of my list of funding requests for Revere, Chelsea, and Saugus, and fi ght to keep these facilities safe and vibrant. Additionally, I will urge Mayor Arrigo to ensure that the longdiscussed concept of a new, multigenerational recreation center for both youth and seniors comes to fruition as part of the Suff olk Downs development. SUPPORT | SEE PAGE 5
THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 Page 5 A Message from the Revere School Committee O n June 23, 2020 the Revere School Committee received a letter from a Revere City Councilor regarding three educators who were recently non-renewed consistent with state law. The Councilor speculated that the educators “were non-renewed as retaliation for their union activity”. The Committee would like to take this opportunity to expressly and categorically state that it did not retaliate against any educators for union activity, either acting on its own or through its Superintendent and Principals. Although the District cannot comment on individual personnel matters, it must be noted that every year the District (like the many other school districts in Massachusetts) reviews all of the provisional teachers without professional teacher status (fi rst three years of employment) and, consistent with the requirements and standards of the state law in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 71, determines which teachers should return to work for the subsequent year. Any teacher who is renewed after three consecutive years of employment acquires “professional teacher status”, after which a teacher can only be dismissed for “just cause” and has arbitration rights. The statute ensures that school districts have ample time to objectively assess all teachers and to decide which teachers have earned the status of permanent employees. This year was no diff erent than CHA Moves COVID-19 Testing Site to Assembly Square SOMERVILLE – Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA), an academic community health system serving Cambridge, Somerville and Boston's metro-north region, is transitioning its COVID-19 testing site from the CHA Somerville Campus to 133 Middlesex Avenue (Assembly Square). Individuals MUST CALL to set up an appointment using the hotline number 617665-2928. Testing is open to all CHA patients, people who live in CHA’s service area and other members of the community. CHA patients with symptoms or contact with confirmed COVID-19 cases should call their primary care provider to schedule a test referral. Tests are provided at no charge to the patient. People will be asked for insurance information, but it is not required. The service accommodates drive-thru and people on foot/ bike. All patients will also receive guidance on how to protect themselves and family memSUPPORT | FROM PAGE 4 Investing in youth and seniors is part of our generational responsibility, and we need more elected offi cials who take this responsibility seriously – not just in their words, but in their policies. You can count on me to be a champion for generational responsibility if you vote to send me to the State House on September 1. Joe Gravellese is a candidate for State Representative in the 16fh Suffolk District (Revere, Chelsea, Saugus) in the Democratic primary on September 1. bers while test results are pending. This is available in multiple languages. The testing tent is open Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. People are asked to call 617-665-2928 to get an appointment. The Call Center is open Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Results will be available in fi ve days after people are tested. Each community’s Department of Public Health will contact people with the results who are not CHA patients. CHA is monitoring the situation and will make changes as circumstances evolve. Visit www.challiance.org to learn more and get updated information. the previous years in that some teachers without professional teacher status were issued notices of non-renewal for the upcoming school year. When determining which personnel to return, the District does not consider any teacher’s union activity. Personnel decisions in the District are not the responsibility of the Committee, nor the City Council; rather, personnel decisions are entrusted to our administrators who operate our schools on a daily basis. The Committee supports the recent personnel decisions of the Superintendent and Principals and assures the City Council and community that no educator was retaliated against for engaging in union activity. Gerry 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 Massort Noise Complaint Line: 617-561-3333 ~ HOURS ~ Open 7 Days a Week Monday thru Sunday * Breakfast * Lunch * Take-Out WE ARE OPEN FOR BUSINESS! INDOOR SEATING & OUTDOOR DINING We Practice Safe Social Distancing & Cleaning 325 Main St., Saugus * (781) 558-2070 irontownsaugus.com
Page 6 THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 ~ LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ~ Former CAPIC head supports Councillor-at-Large Zambuto Dear Editor and Citizens of Revere: The events of the past few weeks compel me to off er some information in support of Revere City Councillor Anthony Zambuto, whom I feel is being unfairly characterized. Please allow me to frame my comments in context with some background. Community Action Programs Inter-City, Inc. (CAPIC) is the designated anti-poverty agency serving low income residents of Chelsea, Revere and Winthrop. The non-profi t exists to identify the causes of poverty in our area and develop strategies to eliminate the barriers that keep people from becoming self-suffi cient. I retired from that organization in October 2019 after a 48-year career. Throughout ~FLASHBACK~ Fourth in a series of photos my career at CAPIC, I endeavored to address the issues of poverty facing all persons in need of hope and opportunity. I found that poverty doesn’t pick a season when it strikes; it doesn’t pick race, culture, color, religious denomination, gender or natural origin. Poverty and hardship doesn’t discriminate. I grew up in Revere public housing. We lived in Veterans Housing on Broadway, then Constitution Ave. I was never embarrassed by that opportunity that our family desperately needed. I believe the experience keeps me grounded and sensitive to the needs of people who face hardship. My dad was a 100 percent disabled veteran from WWII and couldn’t work for ten years after an honorable discharge. He eventually regained his health and overcame the disadvantage that a disability incurs. Many, however, due to their race, color, heritage, linguistic inability, lack of education, gender or religion cannot overcome disadvantage and continue to remain in poverty. CAPIC is there to help balance the equation and provide opportunity where and when it doesn’t exist. Anthony Zambuto has served as a volunteer member of the CAPIC Board of Directors since 2000. For twenty years he has been an active participant in the anti-poverty dialogue that shaped two decades of programming. Councillor Zambuto, along with a long list of other dedicated Board members has contributed to the development of the programs that provide services to help all people become self-suffi cient in the threecommunity area and to that end he has been on a team that has enriched the lives of thousands. I have never been a witness to any comment or remark that could be considered inappropriate by Councillor Zambuto, in fact he has been a champion of those in need and I promise you he has never been in favor or against any particular segment of the population. Councillor Zambuto, like all Board and Staff of the CAPIC organization takes great pride in helping others. Whatever has led to the recent criticism of Councilor Zambuto by some is not warranted in my opinion. Sincerely, Robert S. Repucci Wakefi eld, MA Resident backs Rana to lead Human Rights Commission The popular Speaker of the House of Representatives Bob DeLeo in his early campaigning days on Broadway with his supporters. As Speaker, he has earned the respect of his colleagues and the public. Everett Aluminum 10 Everett Ave., Everett 617-389-3839 Owned & operated by the Conti family since 1958 • 57 Years! “Same name, phone number & address for family since 1958 • 62 over half a century. We must be doing something right!” •Vinyl Siding •Free Estimates •Carpentry Work •Fully Licensed •Decks •Roofing • Fully Insured • Replacement Windows www.everettaluminum.com Now’s the time to schedule those home improvement projects you’ve been dreaming about all winter! Dear Editor: I am writing to encourage members of the Revere City Council to support the appointment of Dimple Rana as Executive Director for the Human Rights Commission during the next City Council meeting. As a Jewish resident of this city who is also a past president of the former Temple B’nai Israel in Beachmont, and as the mother of a Revere High School student, I am deeply concerned about a Revere family being targeted with swastikas. Sadly, this is only one of several incidents that highlight our city’s need for a Human Rights Commission, and for the Commission to be led by someone who is engaged and eff ective, who knows this community, and who has earned our trust. Dimple Rana is that person. Ms. Rana has proven, in both professional and volunteer roles, that she is dedicated to protecting and advancing the best interests of Revere and its residents. Her recent eff orts organizing and chairing the daily COVID-19 response meetings and coordinating with City departments and community groups throughout the city were instrumental in ensuring that Revere has been able to meet the needs of so many residents during this crisis. Revere’s Human Rights Commission will need an Executive Director who is well-versed on the issues facing Revere, and who will advocate for the rights of all residents. There is no one better qualifi ed for this role than Dimple Rana. Sincerely, Jamie Farrell For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 781-286-8500 or Info@advocatenews.net Summer is Here!
THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 Page 7 Beach Street residence named RBC “Beautiful Home” T his week a home on Beach Street has been selected as a “Beautiful Home” by the Revere Beautifi cation Committee (RBC). This property is enclosed by a chain-link fence and the area is covered with a variety of plantings. There are clusters of white daisies, yellow lilies and purple lavender plants. There are also pots of herbs, vases of petunias, and rose bushes. Also included are several of the owner’s special objects that liven up the area. Trees are planted at the sides of the yard. The home is owned by Dorana Guerra, who has had the property for less than two years. He spends time every day after work tending to his yard and continuing to make it pretty. This property is a perfect example of the diff erence a beautifi ed home makes to the city by transforming an unkempt yard into a fl ower-fi lled beauty. As the property was being viewed for this article, a gentleman walked by and remarked how nice the property looks. When told that the home had been selected for the RBC “Beautiful Home” award, this neighbor said, “You should have seen it before the current owner bought it. It was a mess.” The gentleman said that he had pictures of the property before Guerra bought it and said that he would send them for this article. Alas, he did not. It would have been nice to have seen the diff erence. When asked if he had any comments to make, Guerra said, “I love the city of Revere and I am a great believer in taking care of one’s property.” RBC agrees totally with Guerra and urges every resident to take care of their property. CONGRATULATIONS: Pictured from left to right, are; RBC Member Christine Pierannunzi and Dorana Guerra. www.eight10barandgrille.com ~ EDITORIAL & OPINION ~ Uber and Lyft continue to have unfair advantage over taxi companies F or the past 11 years, taxi companies that have been around for decades have been struggling to compete with rideshare companies, most notably, Uber Technologies, Inc. and Lyft, Inc. We believe that healthy business competition is good for the consumer; however, there needs to be a level playing field. That has not been the case with the taxi and rideshare companies. Unlike the taxi companies, Uber and Lyft are somehow exempt from state regulations. We also agree with the lawsuit recently fi led by Attorney General Maura Healey maintaining that Uber and Lyft drivers are employees rather than independent contractors. Therefore, they should be protected under the state’s wage and hour laws. This protection would grant them the right to receive minimum wage, overtime pay and earned sick time. “Uber and Lyft have built their billion-dollar businesses while denying their drivers basic employee protections and benefi ts for years,” said Healey. “This business model is unfair and exploitative. We are seeking this determination from the court because these drivers have a right to be treated fairly.” Why this has not been the case right along is beyond comprehension. Market them anyway you want, but at the end of the day, Uber and Lyft are also taxi companies. Last year alone, Uber reported revenue of $14.1 billion while Lyft reported revenue of $3.6 billion. Clearly, they can aff ord to treat their employees fairly and obey the state’s regulations. We Have Reopened for Dine-In and Outside Seating every day beginning at 4 PM WE'RE OPEN! 8 Norwood Street, Everett (617) 387-9810 STAY SAFE! AUTOTECH 1989 SINCE Is Your Vehicle Blowing Hot Air on Hot Days?!! AC SPECIAL Recharge your vehicle's AC for the warm weather! Includes up to 1 LB. of Refrigerant* (*Most Vehicles/Some Restrictions May Apply) Only $69.95 DRIVE IT - PUSH IT - TOW IT! CASH FOR YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR SUV! 2012 KIA SOUL 2015 NISSAN ALTIMA One Owner, Most Power Options, 101K Miles, Warranty, Runs & Looks Great! FUN IN THE SUN! $6,500 Easy Financing Available! EddiesAutotech.com Only 104K Miles, One Owner, Most Power Options, in Excellent Condition. QUALITY & PRICE $7,250 781-321-8841 1236 EasternAve • Malden We Pay Cash For Your Vehicle!
Page 8 THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 Save the Harbor’s Annual Water Quality Report Card for the Metropolitan Beaches Winthrop Beach, Short Beach and Revere Beach scored between 83% and 88% O n Wednesday, July 22, the environmental advocacy organization Save the Harbor/ Save the Bay released its annual Metropolitan Beaches Water Quality Report Card, using data from the 2019 beach season. In 2019 weekly water quality testing at Boston’s regional beaches began on May 23. Supplemental daily testing of Constitution Beach, King’s Beach, Malibu Beach, Tenean Beach and Wollaston Beach began on June 13. Testing concluded on September 1. The scores refl ect the percent of samples that complied with the single sample limit for bacteria of the state Department of Public Health (DPH) – the most straightforward way of evaluating beach water quality and potential impacts on human health. In 2019 the overall water quality safety rating for Boston Harbor’s regional beaches owned by the Commonwealth and managed by the state Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR) was 88 percent, a decline from the previous year’s score of 94 percent. Changes in the intensity and frequency of summer storms often explain the variations seen on our beaches from year to year. These seasonal variations are why Save the Harbor/Save the Bay is reluctant to draw conclusions from a single year’s sampling results, preferring to rely on the multiyear average that is included in this report. Last year was one of the wettest years on record for Massachusetts, part of the wettest 12-month stretch in the state’s 124 years of record keeping. Some summer storms dropped a month’s worth of rain in just a few hours. It was a summer of extremes, with July also being the hottest one on record, making beach accessibility even more critical to the region’s residents. In 2019 four of the region’s 15 public beaches (Carson Beach, M Street Beach, City Point Beach and Pleasure Bay, all in South Boston) achieved a perfect score of 100 percent, making them the cleanest urban beaches in the nation. Three area beaches (Nahant Beach, Constitution Beach in East Boston and Nantasket Beach in Hull) scored between 90 percent and 97 percent. Four area beaches (Short Beach in Revere and Winthrop, Revere Beach in Revere, Wollaston Beach in Quincy and Malibu Beach in Dorchester) scored between 83 percent and 88 percent, while four area beaches (Savin Hill Beach in Dorchester, Winthrop Beach in Winthrop, King’s Beach in Lynn and Swampscott and Tenean Beach in Dorchester) scored less than 80 percent in 2019. One critical weakness of the area beach posting and flagging program, in which bacteria testing triggers advisories, is that postings are always a day late because beach managers must wait 24 to 36 hours after a sample is collected to obtain test results. Beach water quality might have already changed Save the Harbor’s Annual Water Quality Report Card signifi cantly during this period, and the prior day’s test does not necessarily refl ect current conditions. In 2019, DPH made changes to the beach posting protocols, which resulted in 39 additional days when area beaches were incorrectly fl agged as unsafe for swimming, including over the Fourth of July weekend. While Save the Harbor/Save the Bay recognize the importance of protecting public health, the current system is severely fl awed and needs to be improved. Although Save the Harbor/Save the Bay had hoped to resolve this situation before the start of the 2020 beach season, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced public agencies, advocates and other stakeholders to – rightly – direct their attention and resources to other pressing public health concerns. As Save the Harbor continues to address the impacts of systemic racism that has too often prevented people of color from fully enjoying the benefi ts of our shared $5 billion investment in clean water, it is important to note that access to these urban beaches is particularly important to the region’s lowincome and Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) residents. Later this year and early next year, Save the Harbor/ Save the Bay will host three forums and a conference on the future of our public beaches, to help our community partners in waterfront neighborhoods and beachfront communities address systemic racism, sea level rise, and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, all of which threaten public health and safety. Working with their policy partners at the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, the state Department of Environmental Protection and DCR, Save the Harbor will also convene a public meeting of their Beaches Science Advisory Committee, to create a shared understanding and consensus among stakeholders and regulators on how to best address the inadequate and inaccurate posting protocols, to both protect public health and preserve public access to clean water. In the interim, instead of simply relying on postings and fl ags, Save the Harbor/Save the Bay urges beachgoers to also rely on common sense and the multiyear average included in this report to decide when and where it is safe to swim. And when you are on the beach, be sure to wear a mask and observe the guidance for social distancing – to protect yourself and your community from COVID-19. For more information on this report and the methodology on which it is based, visit www.savetheharbor.org/reportcard. Revere residents named to Dean’s List at UMass Amherst AMHERST – The following Revere residents were named to the Dean’s List at the University of Massachusetts Amherst for the spring semester of the 2019-2020 academic year: Comlan Magloire Adjindah, Moustafa Ahmed, Melisa Avdic, Alejandro Buenrostro, Thai Bui, Leila Cesic, Shamar Challenger, David Oleg Conlon, Joseph James Dello Russo, Grace Dias, Cheyanne Grace Fullen, Brenden James Godino, Katherine Gutierrez Orrego, Sonia Yanira Hercules Mancia, Maria Fernanda Hernandez, Isabella Mendes Izidoro, Greis Kasofo, Andrea Lopez, Robert Christopher Mahoney, Sebastian Mejia Espinosa, Aladdin Hatim Mohammed, Oluwafemi Olatunbosun, David To Phan, Valentina Restrepo, Jhonnatan Ismael Rivera, Luana Rodrigues Dos Santos, Sari Saint-Hilaire, Tong Shen, Dhimiter Shosho, Berken Sonmez, Baron Tran, Jimmy Tran, Kevin Trinh and Giana Marie Wilson. In order to qualify, an undergraduate student must receive a 3.5 grade point average or better on a 4-point scale.
THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 Page 9 City reminds residents of new recycling regulations O ver the last three weeks, the Revere Department of Public Works (DPW) has started tagging residents for misuse of their recycling bins. In collaboration with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’s grant-funded “Recycle IQ” initiative, the City of Revere is entering the second year of public education on proper recycling methods. Over the next four months, residents’ recycling bins will be inspected by an auditor to determine if nonrecyclable materials have been placed inside. If a resident’s bin is deemed contaminated, the resident will receive a warning tag identifying the issue, and the resident’s recycling will not be collected. The “Recycle IQ” initiative has created four part-time jobs to conduct checks of residential recycling bins, tag bins that are deemed contaminated and follow-up with educational materials to help residents identify how they are contaminating the recycling stream. The city continues to experience widespread contamination of its recycling stream, meaning that what is being placed in recycling bins is not recyclable. The 100% contamination rate costs the city more than $120,000 every year in additional disposal costs. Educational materials will highlight the following common issues leading to contamination of recycling: • Do not bag recyclables • No plastic bags or plastic wrap • No food or liquid (recyclables must be rinsed) • No clothing or linens • No tanglers (such as hoses, wires, chains or electronics) Residents with questions should reach out to Principal DPW Clerk Debra Anemoduris at 781-286-8100, extension 20038. Saturday, August 1 at 9PM The Coronavirus Count State reports 32 new confi rmed Revere COVID-19 cases; state focuses on positive cases over last 14 days O ver the past week, the number of confi rmed COVID-19 cases in Revere increased from 1,838 to 1,870 cases, according to the latest weekly city/town cases available on Wednesday. For the second consecutive week, the state did not publish the rate of COVID-19 cases per 100,000 population – a statistical analysis which last week showed Revere had the sixth highest rate in the state, with an average of 2,968.01 per 100,000. The statistic made it easy to compare the incidence of COVID-19 in diff erent communities, large and small. The state Department of Public Health (DPH) website now lists a measurement which focuses on test results over the past 14 days up until Wednesday. Those statistics showed 14,082 Revere residents have been tested for the virus so far – including 1,627 over the past 14 days; of those tested, there were 70 confi rmed cases of the virus for a positivity rate of 4.30 percent during that time. That is more than twice the average state positivity rate of 1.67 percent. COMMITTEE | FROM PAGE 1 clear” in the motion that a collaborative process would ensue to work out the Board’s mechanisms and bylaws. D’Ambrosio went on to say that he looks forward to working with his fellow School Committee members and the community at large on the development and operation of the Board. Emphasizing the Board’s inclusive mission, Gravellese noted that the language of the motion includes “parents […] students, Last week’s positivity rate was 4.14 percent, according to the latest state report. That is higher than the state positivity average of 2.25 percent over the same period. People can compare the number of COVID-19 cases confi rmed in Revere to the number in neighboring cities and towns as well as communities of similar size by going to the DPH website at https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-response-reporting, then click on COVID-19 cases by city/town. Here’s how nine other area communities compare to Revere: Lynn: 3,779 cases, 136 total positive tests in the last 14 days, 3.62 percent positivity. Revere: 1,870 cases, 70 total positive tests in the last 14 days, 4.30 percent positivity. Everett: 1,823 cases, 52 total positive tests in the last 14 days, 2.22 percent positivity. Malden: 1,280 cases, 34 total positive tests in the last 14 days, 2.12 percent positivity. Peabody: 1,021 cases, 29 total positive tests in the last 14 days, and people from diff erent ethnic backgrounds.” Recent national events and the disruptions from COVID-19 have laid bare educational inequities in communities nationwide and made the task of combatting them all the more pressing. Acknowledging the urgency of this task, D’Ambrosio stated, “I’m heartened to see the majority of the School Committee make a commitment to support equity in education, because it was the right thing to do now, in this time, in this country, in this state, and in this city.” 1.79 percent positivity. Saugus: 566 cases, 12 total positive tests in the last 14 days, 1.67 percent positivity. Wakefield: 326 cases, 8 total positive tests in the last 14 days, 1.03 percent positivity. Melrose: 273 cases, 27 positive tests in the last 14 days, 1.48 percent positivity. Reading: 305 cases, 5 positive tests in the last 14 days,.75 percent positivity. Lynnfi eld: 98 cases, 0 positive tests in the last 14 days, 0 percent positivity. Statewide totals: 112,347 cases, 3,011 positive tests in the last 14 days, 1.67 percent positivity. (Data compiled by DPH and made public as of July 22, 2020.) Pizza “2 for Tuesday” Indulge in our Pizza "2 for Tuesday" every Tuesdays at Breakaway. A deal that you can't resist! You have the option to dine in or pick up! To learn more, call us at 978-774-7270. 221 Newbury Street, Danvers For Tickets call (978) 774-7270 or www.breakawaydanvers.com For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 781-286-8500 or Info@advocatenews.net MOJO SLIM dine drink gather enjo Friday, July 24 at 9PM The Led Zeppelin Tribute Band IN THE LIGHT y LIVE MUSIC ON THE PATIO EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT! JULY 16 - Kevin Kennedy JULY 23 - Acoustic Duo AUGUST 6 - Freddie G's Happy Hour Band Two Amazing Nights One Legendary Band! FORTUNE Thursday, July 30 & Friday, July 31 A Breakaway Favorite! 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Page 10 THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 MIAA Board votes to delay start of High School Fall Sports season to Sept. 14 Hope remains for H.S. fall teams, though state offi cials will have the fi nal say in August By Steve Freker H igh school student-athletes all across Massachusetts who are hoping to get out there and compete in fall sports got a major boost Tuesday. The Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) Board of Directors voted unanimously (18-0) to accept the MIAA COVID-19 Task Force’s recommendation to push back the start of all fall sports until Monday, Sept. 14. By waiting until mid-September, it would mean fall athletics would not begin until schools are back in session. Most high schools in Massachusetts, including those in Everett, Malden, Revere and Saugus, are scheduled to begin classes between Sept. 1 and Sept. 8. The Sept. 14 start date would also mean that is the date supervised practices and workouts might begin with coaches working with players. Games would not be scheduled or held until at least a week after that date, two weeks or more for football, under the proposal voted on by the Board. Even still, despite the MIAA Board's positive vote, the fate of fall sports still lies with guidelines still to be set and released through Governor Charlie Baker's offi ce by the Mass. Executive Offi ce of Energy and Environmental Aff airs (EEA) as well as guidance from the Mass. Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). The MIAA's vote represents High school football teams are chomping at the bit waiting to get started, but now will have to wait until at least Sept. 14 to start up. Above, Revere High’s Lucas Barbosa runs for more yards. (Courtesy Photo/ Revere HS Football) positive progress, but the state agencies will announce sometime in early August what fall sports, if any, they determine can safely be played at the high school level. At this time, at least two major fall sports, football and soccer, are listed in a "Level 3" category, under Gov. Baker's phased Reopening Plan. Level 3 sports, under the plan, are designated as "high risk" for potential transmission of COVID-19 and, as stated as present, games would not be allowed at any point of Phase 3 and would be considered for Phase 4. At this time, Gov, Baker has previously announced that Massachusetts remains in Phase 3 and would not advance to Phase 4 (designated "Return to Normal"), until there is a COVID-19 vaccine. For fall sports games to be played this season, a change in that present stance would have to be made and advanced. "It was a truly positive move, but there is still a lot of work to do and a lot of decisions to be made before we get to actually beginning a fall sports season," said Malden Public School Director of Athletics Charlie Conefrey, who is fi rst-year member of the MIAA Board of Directors. Conefrey joined his colleagues in approving the Task Force's recommendation. "Everyone wants to see the student-athletes out there participating and competing in athletics," Conefrey said, "but the safety and health of all involved, students, coaches, staff and families are the number one priority. It would have to be done safely, that is the bottom line." Also in question is whether some fall sports, which are categorized in lower risk levels, such as golf and cross country, might be allowed to be played, while others in the highest risk category, football and soccer particularly, might not be allowed. According to sources, a number of high school athletic directors would be hesitant to allow some sports to go forward and others not allowed. Additionally, there has been a recurrent "I heard that..." rumor the MIAA may be considering flip-flopping fall sports with spring sports seasons for the 2020-21 school year, but this proposition has not been off ered or discussed at all at the MIAA level to date, Fall athletics were originally scheduled to begin for most sports on Aug. 24, with football starting Aug. 21. In addition to the recommendation to delay fall sports, the MIAA Board of Directors also voted to accept two other proposals put forward by the Task Force. The Board agreed to follow any guidelines established by the stste EEA and DESE agencies regarding fall athletics, and to meet again following the release of the guidance to make any further announcements on fall sports. Girls soccer teams are hoping to get out on the fi elds this fall. They all await word from state agencies. (Steve Freker Photo) AG Healey sues disposable e-cigarette company “Puff Bar” A ttorney General Maura Healey has sued online disposable e-cigarette company Puff Bar for illegally selling and delivering fl avored tobacco products to consumers in Massachusetts, in violation of a state law that went into eff ect in November 2019. In a Complaint fi led On July 15 in Suff olk Superior Court, Healey alleges that Puff Bar and Cool Clouds Distribution, Inc. (together “Puff Bar”) violated state laws and regulations by selling fl avored tobacco products to Massachusetts consumers and failing to protect against delivery of these products to minors. “This company’s practices – selling flavored products and delivering products to minors – are plainly illegal under Massachusetts law,” said Healey. “These products are dangerous, addictive and particularly appealing to young people, which is why Massachusetts moved quickly to regulate them. Companies that blatantly violate these laws will face legal action from my offi ce.” Healey’s offi ce is also seeking a preliminary injunction in court to prevent the illegal sale of these products while litigation is ongoing. A hearing on Healey’s motion for a preliminary injunction will be scheduled in Suff olk Superior Court. According to a recent press release from the Offi ce of the Attorney General, its investigation of Puff Bar revealed the company has continued to advertise and sell fl avored tobacco products, specifi cally disposable ecigarettes, to consumers in Massachusetts, in violation of state law. On November 27, 2019, Massachusetts became the fi rst state in the country to ban the sale of fl avored tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and e-liquids. The law went fully into eff ect on June 1 – also banning all menthol-flavored tobacco products. AG Healey testifi ed in support of the legislation to ban fl avored tobacco products. Flavored vaping products are popular among young people and they are a reason why many of them start and continue using nicotine vaping products. As the federal government moves to restrict the sale of some fl avored ecigarette products, disposable e-cigarettes – like those sold by Puff Bar – are growing in popularity with young people. Puff Bar’s disposable e-cigarettes are especially attractive to young people because they cost less than other e-cigarettes and they are available in more than 20 fl avors, including “O.M.G.,” which is described on its website as “a triple medley of Orange, Guava, and Mango,” and “Blue Razz,” which is described as “candy… making vaping feel like a blue and red raspberry.” Reportedly, Puff Bar continues to sell fl avors in Massachusetts that appeal to young people, such as “Menthol (Spearmint)” and “Watermelon.” Healey’s offi ce also alleges that Puff Bar does not use a method of mailing, shipping or delivery of these tobacco products that requires the signature of a person who is of the minimum leE-CIGARETTE | SEE PAGE 11
THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 Page 11 Special Delivery R acism in its many forms, especially structural racism, is a reality. That is not debatable. Those who deny racism’s existence and infl uence are missing its harmful and far-reaching eff ects on the health, wellbeing, and prosperity of our communities. The COVID-19 pandemic has laid bare longstanding inequities in health for people of color – in Massachusetts, across the nation, and here in Revere, Black and Brown people have been disproportionately impacted by the virus. The death of George Floyd and others has reignited the Black Lives Matter movement and bolstered calls for racial equity and justice. As a E-CIGARETTE | FROM PAGE 10 gal age before the package is released. State regulations instituted by Healey in 2015 require sellers to ensure shipments of these products are received by a person 21 years or older. Healey’s office alleges that Puff Bar violated An Act modernizing tobacco regulations, the Massachusetts Consumer Protection Act and Healey’s ecigarette regulations. Healey’s complaint seeks injunctive relief preventing Puff Bar from continuing to engage in these illegal practices and also seeks civil penalties. In January the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released guidance describing how the agency will prioritize ecigarette enforcement resources, including that it will focus on cartridge-based e-cigarettes. The FDA’s focus on cartridgebased products creates a loophole for self-contained, disposable products – like those sold by Puff Bar – that are popular among young people. In Massachusetts, An Act modernizing tobacco regulations prohibits all fl avored products from being sold in the state – both in cartridge-based and disposRevere fi re fi ghters and emergency personnel are shown at the scene following the delivery of a baby the side of Lee Burbank Highway last Thursday. See Story on Page 17. (Photos courtesy of Revere Fire Dept.) ~ OP-ED ~ Will Revere lead or fall behind? result, organizations of all types are revisiting their commitments to end racism, and leaders at all levels are urgently trying to fi gure out how to make meaningful change. Will Revere lead or fall behind? As the leader of an organization that has worked in this community for more than 20 years, I have come to admire the ease with which this community rallies and comes together for important causes – my expectations are high. During its June meeting, the City Council decided to table the appointment of Dimple Rana as the executive director of the newly activated Human Rights Commission. This appointment able forms – but this loophole allows these disposable products to more easily make their way into the hands of young people in the state and across the nation. In February, Healey joined a bipartisan coalition of attorneys general urging the FDA to expand and strengthen its enforcement guidance to include menthol fl avors and products that are not cartridge based. Preliminary data from the 2019 Massachusetts Youth Health Survey from the spring of 2019 show that the percentage of high school students in Massachusetts who have used vape products is at an all-time high, at more than 50 percent, with more than 30 percent reporting that they had used vape products in the past month. Young people are exposed to e-cigarette marketing on social media at growing rates and are often unaware that these vaping products contain nicotine – a substance that can interfere with adolescent brain development – and other ingredients that are harmful to their health. The full range of health impacts of e-cigarettes is still unknown, and the public health system is struggling to develop and implement eff ecwould have fi nally put the commission into action. Failure to do so has delayed the formation of an important body of local government, charged with ensuring the protection of equal rights and opportunities for all. Cities and towns around the state have recently activated their own human rights commissions, with a focus on protecting immigrant communities, a frequent target of discrimination in the areas of housing, employment, credit, schools, and public service, among others. Each of these areas impacts health, a point emphasized by Mayor Brian Arrigo when he declared racism a public health crisis and moved to staff such a tive cessation methods to meet the needs of young people and their families. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Healey and Massachusetts General Hospital issued a warning to the public about the potential increased dangers and risks associated with smoking and vaping for young people and adults. Healey was the fi rst Attorney General to announce an investigation into JUUL Labs, Inc., and in February her offi ce sued the company for creating a youth vaping epidemic by intentionally marketing and selling its e-cigarettes to young people. Healey’s offi ce also sued eight other online e-cigarette companies for selling fl avored products in Massachusetts and obtained court orders to halt those sales and deliveries while the cases are pending. The offi ce sued Eonsmoke, LLC (now not in business per its website) for marketing and selling products to young people with fl avors like “gummy bear” and “cotton candy.” Healey’s offi ce also sent cease and desist demands to Direct Eliquid, LLC and Kilo E-Liquids, ordering the retailers to stop selling electronic cigarettes in Massachusetts without an adequate age verifi - commission. Revere CARES stands by Mayor Arrigo and his appointment of Dimple Rana as executive director of the Human Rights Commission. We have known and worked with Dimple for 10 years, and her accomplishments during this time have significantly benefi tted Revere. We appreciate her strong leadership, capacity to be fair and fl exible, and to continue to learn. Quite simply, Dimple Rana is one of the community’s most passionate advocates. On behalf of Revere CARES, I encourage the City Council, on Monday, July 27, to approve the appointment of Dimple Rana as the executive director of the cation system. As a result of the lawsuit and cease and desist letters, these companies are no longer selling to Massachusetts rescity’s Human Rights Commission. This important step will jumpstart the critical community-wide work that I believe we all are committed to advancing. Signed, Sylvia R. Chiang Revere CARES Coalition Director Community Coalition supported by the MGH Center for Community Health Improvement Reverend Nicholas Granitsas Founding member of the Revere CARES Coalition Carol A. Tye Founding member of the Revere CARES Coalition idents. The AG’s Offi ce continues to investigate e-cigarette companies that it suspects are violating state law.
Page 12 THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 AMBASSADOR | FROM PAGE 1 1. On July 24, 1911, American Hiram Bingham discovered what abandoned Incan city in Peru? 2. What do square, barn and lion have in common? 3. What “crab” is considered a “living fossil” because it originated 450 million years ago? 4. On July 25, 1917, what exotic dancer and alleged spy was sentenced by a French court to be executed by fi ring squad? 5. What color is cyan? 6. On July 26, 1992, the “Dream Team” of what U.S. sport played its first game at the Barcelona Olympics? 7. What comic pair’s theme song was “The Dance of the Cukoo”? 8. On July 27, 1940, the cartoon “A Wild Hare” was released, introducing what victim of Elmer J. Fudd? 9. What do Clark Kent, Oswald Chesterfi eld Cobblepot and Diana Prince have in common? 10. What are Texas, Memphis, Kansas City and the Carolinas well known for? 11. What two men had the lead roles in the 1980 fi lm “Stir Crazy”? 12. What is advisable to wear at Hawaii’s black sand beaches? 13. What game using colored balls did the Olympics only allow at its summer games in 1900 in Paris? 14. On July 28, 1866, Congress authorized the legal use of what measurement system? 15. What First Lady during the Inaugural Ball during the War of 1812 “set astir an Air of Expectancy” upon serving a large dome of ice cream? 16. On July 29, 1981, who married in front of an estimated 500 million TV viewers? 17. The Drake Passage connects what oceans? 18. What are the four strokes of competitive swimming? 19. What do harbor, Ross, Baikal and gray have in common? 20. On July 30, 1863, what American inventor/manufacturer was born who said, “If I’d listened to customers, I’d have given them a faster horse”? ANSWERS able eff orts into assuring the Revere Beach experience remains a safe and enjoyable place for all despite the uncertain and unnerving times we fi nd ourselves in.” Funding from community sponsors and partners, including The HYM Investment Group and Save The Harbor/Save The Bay, has allowed RBP to install 16 touchless handwashing stations along Revere Beach for patrons to use and help prevent the spread of COVID-19. These handwashing stations will come equipped with a scannable QR code that will direct people to a webpage that contains safe use guidelines for the beach. In addition to the implementation of handwashing stations, RBP will be conducting weekly beach sanitization efforts and a mask and children’s sand bucket giveaway. These efforts will take place each Wednesday through August 26 and will be limited to 25 people. “There’s no better place to be on a hot summer day than Revere Beach, but this summer is unlike any other and we remain focused on ensuring public health and safety,” said Mayor Brian Arrigo. “Working with DCR and Revere Beach Partnership, we’ll continue to take steps to increase awareness of safe beach practices and provide people with the resources they need to keep themselves healthy. We know now that masks are one of our strongest defenses against the spread of COVID-19, and reaching every visitor to the beach with that message and a mask if they need one will go a long way. I’m grateful for all the Partnership’s work to make sure people can continue to enjoy our beautiful beach, despite these unprecedented challenges.” Revere Beach Partnership President Jeff Turco encouraged people to wear a mask at “America’s First Public Beach” to be safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) Mayor Brian Arrigo said that although there’s no better place to be on a hot summer day than Revere Beach, during this unusual summer we have to remain focused on ensuring public health and safety. Department of Conservation & Recreation Forest and Parks Supervisor Charles Collins, sporting his Revere Beach clock mask, encouraged people not to pick up needles but instead trash during Wednesday’s beach cleanup. Save The Harbor/Save The Bay Executive Director Chris Mancini said funding from community sponsors/partners, including The HYM Investment Group, allowed the Revere Beach Partnership to install 16 touchless handwashing stations along Revere Beach for patrons to use to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Jessica, Joi, 4, Kevin, Kevin III, 3, and Jessica Graham, 5, thanked the partnership for the children’s buckets. Twins Eli and Aria Karshis, 4, during Wednesday morning’s mask and children’s sand bucket giveaway at Revere Beach. Kristen Karshis and her son, Eli, pick up seaweed and Styrofoam with a trash picker. Edi is excited about his new sand bucket. Save The Harbor/Save The Bay Senior Educator Claudia Hernandez picked up clothes tags and plastic along the water’s shoreline. Emerald Toole, 3, of Malden, enjoyed the summer temperatures. Sisters Alma, 3, and Nina, 7, play in the distance with the sand buckets. 1. Machu Picchu 2. They are types of dance. 3. The horseshoe crab, which is not a crustacean 4. Mata Hari 5. Greenish blue 6. Basketball 7. Laurel & Hardy 8. Bugs Bunny 9. They are “real” identifies of fi ctional characters (Superman, The Penguin and Wonder Woman). 10. Their barbecue styles 11. Richard Pryor and Gene Wilder 12. Shoes – black sand absorbs a lot of heat. 13. Croquet 14. Metric 15. Dolly Madison 16. Prince Charles and Lady Diana 17. Pacifi c and Atlantic 18. Backstroke, breaststroke, butterfl y and freestyle (or front crawl) 19. They are types of seals. 20. Henry Ford
THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 Page 13 SCHOOL | FROM PAGE 1 sponses with 93 percent anticipating returning to school, regardless of whether it’s in person or remote learning. However, during public comment several teachers advocated for remote learning due to the pandemic. Abraham Lincoln School special education teacher Jamie Anderson said children are resilient and that they maintain a strong online presence on social media, so he asked why they can’t do the same for learning. “There’s never been a more relevant time to apply their technology skills,” Anderson said. Garfield Middle School technology teacher Michele Gallo said that although it’s a diffi cult time, everyone must do their part to keep safe. “Children can catch the virus and transmit it,” Gallo said. Agreeing with Gallo, teacher Megan Leys said children 10 years and older can spread the virus as effectively as adults. She added that many of teachers fall into the 20 to 39 age bracket, which has seen a spike in COVID-19 cases. “Safer shouldn’t be confused with safe,” said Leys, Parents and students took a reopening survey, and the results were shared during Tuesday’s virtual four-hour School Committee meeting. who worked in the medical fi eld prior to teaching – “We aren’t there yet.” Garfi eld Elementary School fourth grade inclusion teacher Barbara Wallace said some teachers felt penalized if they chose the remote option. Kelly addressed the teachers. “Everyone is doing an incredible job fi nding ways to reinvent school,” she said. “We will fi nd ways to work remotely, if we have to, eventually moving to a hybrid model.” The School Committee exHeather Bobb, who is School Committee Member Carol Tye’s former student, is Rumney Marsh Academy’s incoming Principal. (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) pects to vote on reopening during their Monday, Aug. 10 meeting. The academic year start date is unknown, but it would normally be on Sept. 2. Later in the meeting, after some discussion, the committee passed School Committee Member Anthony D’Ambrosio’s motion to establish an equity advisory board district-wide as opposed to the one that exists at Revere High School. —Tara Vocino may be reached at printjournalist1@ gmail.com.
Page 14 THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 more information on the subject before taking any action. “We don’t have enough information,” said Sen. John Velis (DWestfield), the sponsor of the study amendment. “We need to do a deep-dive.» “We need to hear from stakeholders,» continued Velis. «Our job is not to watch CNN or Fox News to get informed, it’s our job to vote in the best interest of constituents.” Opponents of the study said THE HOUSE AND SENATE: Beacon Hill Roll Call records local representatives’ votes on roll calls from the week of July 1317. There were no roll calls in the House last week. CHANGES IN POLICING (S. 2800) Senate 30-7, approved and sent to the House a bill making major changes in the state’s policing system. The measure creates a Police Offi cer Standards and Accreditation Committee (POSAC)—an independent state entity composed of law enforcement professionals, community members and racial justice advocates—to standardize the certifi - cation, training and decertifi cation of police offi cers. Other provisions ban chokeholds that are performed with the intent of or with the result of causing unconsciousness or death; ban other deadly uses of force except in cases of imminent harm; require the use of de-escalation tactics when feasible; create a duty to intervene for offi cers who witness abuse of force; limit qualifi ed immunity defense for offi cers whose conduct violates the law; expand and strengthen police training in de-escalation, racism and intervention tactics; and ban racial profi ling, require racial data collection for all police stops and require reporting and analysis. “We have lots of wonderful police offi cers, and I am grateful for their service,” said Sen. Will Brownsberger (D-Belmont). “But we cannot turn a blind eye to the problems that do exist in the state which have been so recently documented by the United States Department of Justice. Nor should we pretend that those problems are the only problems in the state. This legislation is long overdue and I’m glad we are moving forward.” “I voted no because the bill that was brought before the Senate was hastily written and then pushed through to a vote in less than a week,” said Sen. Ryan Fattman (R-Sutton). “These actions result in a fl awed product with multiple unintended consequences. For example, the language in this bill signifi cantly dilutes and diminishes qualifi ed immunity, not just for law enforcement offi cers, but for all municipal employees. Additionally, the bill would make it illegal for police and school administrations to communicate about gang and drug-related activity occurring in the school district, in turn making our schools and students less safe.” “This bill is a vital step towards a new vision of public safety: one that’s built on accountability, deescalation, and care,” said Sen. Sonia Chang-Díaz (D-Boston). “It begins the long, necessary work of shifting power and resources to black communities and communities of color who have, for too long, faced criminalization and punishment instead of investment.” “In my opinion, we don’t know enough about how changing these standards of qualifi ed immunity and collective bargaining will aff ect law enforcement, municipal employees, court systems, and labor unions in our state,” said Sen. John Velis (D-Westfi eld). “I believe we need subject-matter experts to help inform us and make recommendations, in order to be absolutely certain that we are meeting the goals of our legislation without any unintended consequences. That being said, I also believe that there is a lot of good work accomplished in this legislation, and I fully intend and hope to vote for a conference committee bill that accomplishes our goals and will be signed by the governor.” (A “Yes” vote is for the bill. A “No” vote is against it.) Sen. Joseph Boncore Yes STUDY QUALIFIED IMMUNITY (S. 2800) Senate 16-24, rejected an amendment striking a section of the bill which sets new limits on qualified immunity protections that currently shield police and other government offi cials from civil suits. The amendment would replace the section with a special commission to study the state’s current qualifi ed immunity and report back to the Legislature within six months. Qualifi ed immunity is a judicially-created legal doctrine established by the U.S. Supreme Court. Under current qualified immunity, police offi cers and other government offi cials can only be held accountable in civil suits for violating someone’s rights if a court has previously ruled that it was “clearly established” those precise actions were unconstitutional. Supporters of the study said they are not saying that qualifi ed immunity should exist without some change nor that it should be abolished. They are simply saying that the Senate needs BAN ALL CHOKEHOLDS (S. 2800) Senate 16-23, rejected an amendment that would completely ban police offi cers from using a chokehold under any circumstances. The amendment would replace an existing section of the bill that was a compromise reached by the working group that helped draft the measure. That compromise section allows chokeholds as long as they are not performed “with the intent of or with the result of causing unconsciousness or death.” The measure defines chokehold as “the use of a lateral vascular neck restraint, carotid restraint or other action that involves the placement of any part of law enforcement offi cer’s body on or around a person’s neck in a manner that limits the person’s breathing or blood fl ow with the intent of or with the result of causing unconsciousness or death.” “The … bill as it exists now contains a loophole,” said Sen. Jim Welch (D-West Springfi eld), the limits the bill places on qualified immunity are reasonable and fair and are a compromise between doing nothing and abolishing qualified immunity outright. Critics say that qualifi ed immunity has shielded violent police offi cers from being personally responsible for their actions. Supporters of it say that limiting qualifi ed immunity puts police offi - cers at risk of frivolous lawsuits. Carol Rose of the American Civil Liberties Union of Massachusetts said setting some limits on qualifi ed immunity is a start. “In order to make any laws about excessive use of force meaningful, it is absolutely essential to reform qualifi ed immunity,” said Rose. “While the ACLU and many of our allies still wish to see qualifi ed immunity eliminated, we commend the Senate for taking this critical action and urge the House to do the same. The Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association is opposed to the limits placed on qualifi ed immunity. “To be clear, qualifi ed immunity is a bedrock protection extended to all public employees,” tweeted the BPPA. “Not just police offi - cers. It does not protect bad cops. In fact, it only protects police officers who act reasonably and within the rules and regulations of their respective departments.” (A “Yes” vote is for the study. A “No” vote is against the study). Sen. Joseph Boncore No the sponsor of the amendment. “It would allow police offi cers to continue to use chokeholds on people if they claim their intent was to do anything other than cut off the individual’s air supply or blood fl ow and they don’t render the person unconscious or dead. This amendment would truly ban the use of chokeholds by law enforcement, an action necessary to guarantee all members of our community are protected against these dangerous and often deadly tactics.” Amendment opponents said the amendment goes too far and deviates from the chokehold compromise the working group achieved. The compromise prohibits chokeholds except for ones that are not performed with the intent of or with the result of causing unconsciousness or death. “This amendment would have created an overbroad definition of chokehold,” said Sen. Will Brownsberger (D-Belmont), a leading proponent of the bill “In the course of a pitched struggle, it is entirely possible that an offi - cer would have to put their arm around someone’s neck. Let’s stick with the balance [compromise] we got and let’s vote against this amendment.” (A “Yes” vote is for a complete ban on chokeholds. A “No” vote is against a complete ban.) Sen. Joseph Boncore No ALLOW CHOKEHOLDS (S. 2800) Senate 3-36, rejected an amendment that would allow the use of a chokehold if the offi cer reasonably believes that his or her life is “in immediate jeopardy of imminent death or serious bodily injury.» “Police offi cers encounter dangerous situations daily,” said amendment sponsor Sen. Dean Tran (R-Leominster). “They should be allowed to use all necessary tools available to protect themselves and when their lives are at risk especially if the perpetrators are bigger and stronger. Not all police offi cers are 6 feet 2 inches and weigh 200 pounds. Many are smaller. Now when a female offi - cer, who is let’s say 5 feet 2 inches and weighs 115 pounds, goes up against someone who is twice her stature, we want her and all of the offi cers to have all the necessary tools available to them for self-defense including the use of chokeholds.” “This amendment would have weakened the ban to a greater extent than necessary to assure offi cer safety,” said Sen. Brownsberger. “Let’s stick with the balance we got and let’s vote against this amendment.” (A “Yes” vote is for the amendment. A “No” vote is against it.) Sen. Joseph Boncore No $16.9 BILLION IN TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS (S. 2813) Senate 36-4, approved an estimated $16.9 billion bond bill authorizing spending on transportation projects and infrastructure. Provisions include $5.6 billion for federal highway system projects, $2 billion for the design, construction and repair of non-federally aided roadway and bridge projects and another $1.25 billion for construction, resurfacing and improvements of bridges and approaches. The package is a bond bill under which the funding would be borrowed by the state through the sale of bonds. A controversial section of the bill allows cities and towns and regions to raise local taxes to fund transportation projects outside of Proposition 21/2, which limits property tax increases in cities and towns. The package also includes earmarks for hundreds of millions of dollars for hundreds of projects in legislators’ districts across the state—many of which will never be funded. The Baker administration is required to adhere to the state’s annual bond borrowing cap and ultimately decides which projects are affordable and actually get funded. Sometimes a legislator will immediately tout the inclusion of local projects in these types of bond bills, especially in an election year to show he or she “brought home the bacon.” But be warned that none of the projects in this package have yet been funded and most will end up never being funded because of the borrowing cap and the power of the governor’s offi ce to pick which projects actually get the green light. The House has already approved an $18 billion transportation package which includes an estimated $522 million to $600 million tax hike to fund improvements to the state’s transportation system. None of the hikes are included in the Senate version. Hikes include a 5 cents-pergallon increase in the motor vehicle gas excise tax; a 9 cents-pergallon increase in the diesel fuel tax; an increase in the aviation fuel tax from 5 percent of the average price per gallon to 7.5 percent of the average price per gallon; elimination of the sales tax exemption on vehicle purchases for traditional rental car companies; replacing the current fl at $456 minimum corporate excise tax with a nine-tiered sliding scale ranging from $456 if the corporation’s total sales are less than $1 million to $150,000 if the corporation’s sales total $1 billion; and increasing the 20 cents-per-trip fl at fee to $1.20 for each non-shared Uber and Lyft ride and $2.20 for every luxury ride. The bill includes language aimed at preventing Uber and Lyft from passing those hikes directly onto riders. Supporters said the bill funds important transportation projects across the state and unlike the House version, does not raise taxes. “In an increasingly hectic end to the fi scal year, I am pleased
THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 Page 15 the Senate was able to pass this important piece of legislation to address many of the Commonwealth’s infrastructure needs,» said Sen. Michael Moore (D-Milbury). “The transportation bond bill is a comprehensive collection of many necessary improvements to our transportation systems from road and bridges to various modes of public transportation. During these increasingly diffi cult fi nancial times it is critical that we continue to make investments in projects such as roads, bridges, sidewalks, and other various restoration projects throughout the commonwealth.” Despite several attempts by Beacon Hill Roll Call, Sen. Joe Boncore (D-Winthrop), the Senate chair of the Transportation Committee, did not respond to requests to comment on the bill. “Section 5 in the bill sets up regional taxation districts where they could change the sales or property taxes by region,” said Sen. Ryan Fattman (R-Sutton). “This is a harmful concept for local businesses and residents. If their region decides to increase sales taxes, potential customers may look beyond these districts to shop for products. We should be working to give relief to our local small businesses during these challenging economic and public health times, not creating an extra barrier to success.” A House-Senate conference committee will attempt to hammer out a compromise version. (A “Yes” vote is for the bill. A “No” vote is against it.) Sen. Joseph Boncore Yes ALLOW CITIES AND TOWNS TO RAISE TAXES FOR TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS (S. 2813) Senate 8-31, rejected a motion to strike from the bill a section that allows cities and towns and regions to raise local taxes to fund transportation projects outside of Proposition 21/2, which limits property tax increases in cities and towns. “Legislating by local tax ballot initiatives hampers our ability to serve our communities in a uniform, progressive, equitable way,” said Sen. Diane DiZoglio (DMethuen), who led the charge to delete the section. “Some of the tax options put forward in this regional tax increase proposal, including the sales tax and property tax components, have nothing to do with transportation but are extremely regressive and would damage our Main Streets. Now, in the middle of a global pandemic, it is astounding to me that we think this is the time to be adding more of a financial burden to our local mom and pop shops.” “It’s clear that more and better public transit is needed across the state, and it is important to give local communities and regions the ability to raise funds when they identify particular needs,” said Sen. Cindy Creem (D-Newton). “Improving access to business districts that are not currently accessible by public transit is good for workers, small businesses and the overall economy. We are giving communities this option if the voters choose to use it.” “The attacks on Proposition 21/2 under any guise are relentless, always intent on chipping away at city and town taxpayers’ protection,” said Chip Ford, Executive Director of Citizens for Limited Taxation, which created the law overwhelmingly approved by voters in 1980. “Section 5 of the Senate’s transportation bond bill created a new exclusion for the citizens’ referendum law. It especially did not belong secreted into a massive borrowing bill, slipped in at the 11th hour without public notice never mind hearings,” Ford added. “Just business as usual on Beacon Hill. Citizens beware—those are the people you elected to the Senate to allegedly represent your interests.” “This is about regional empowerment,” said Sen. Eric Lesser (DLongmeadow). “This is about acknowledging that a lot of infrastructure development in our communities happens by region. It’s not all about top-down from Beacon Hill or top-down from the Statehouse, and it allows local communities to take some control and some autonomy over projects that are vital to them.” “The Senate is not letting the pandemic slow them down,” said Paul Craney, executive director of the Mass Fiscal Alliance. “They feel they are immune from the economic hurt around them. Creating new taxing authorities is not how we’re going to get our economy running again. This is just a backdoor attempt to try to circumvent the will of the voters and undermine Prop 2 1/2. These senators should be thinking about ways to reduce spending, cut taxes, and help small businesses and workers get back on their feet. In the past four months, countless Massachusetts residents lost their jobs and cannot pay their mortgages. Today’s response by the Senate is tone deaf to the fi nancial hurt being felt around the state.” (Please read carefully what a “Yes” and “No” vote means. A “Yes” vote is in favor of deleting the local tax option and therefore against the option. A “No” vote is to leave the local tax option in the bill and therefore is in favor of the option.) Sen. Joseph Boncore No INSTALL CAMERAS ON SCHOOL BUSES (S. 2813) Senate 14-25, rejected an amendment that would allow any city or town to install and operate live digital video school bus violation detection monitoring systems to enforce violations against the owner of a motor vehicle whose vehicle failed to stop for a school bus when required to do so by law. School buses with the monitoring system installed would post signage indicating the use of that system. “At least 22 states have enacted stop-arm laws to catch and punish motorists who pass stopped school buses by allowing local jurisdictions to install cameras on the outside of the bus to record illegal passings,” said the amendment’s sponsor Sen. Diana DiZoglio (DMethuen). “This is a commonsense mechanism that would help to increase driver awareness, prevent injuries and save lives, and the use of cameras for this specifi c purpose has widespread voter support in Massachusetts.” Opponents said that the transportation bill is focused on transportation projects and not general road safety. They said there are some safety provisions in the bill, but those provisions are focused on construction zones which make them related to the transportation bill. They noted the school bus camera idea was already considered by the Senate this past year and was rejected. (A “Yes” vote is for putting cameras on the buses. A “No” vote is against it.) Sen. Joseph Boncore No HOW LONG WAS LAST WEEK’S SESSION? Beacon Hill Roll Call tracks the length of time that the House and Senate were in session each week. Many legislators say that legislative sessions are only one aspect of the Legislature’s job and that a lot of important work is done outside of the House and Senate chambers. They note that their jobs also involve committee work, research, constituent work and other matters that are important to their districts. Critics say that the Legislature does not meet regularly or long enough to debate and vote in public view on the thousands of pieces of legislation that have been fi led. They note that the infrequency and brief length of sessions are misguided and lead to irresponsible late-night sessions and a mad rush to act on dozens of bills in the days immediately preceding the end of an annual session. During the week of July 13-17, the House met for a total of 13 hours and 13 minutes while the Senate met for a total of 24 hours and 5 minutes. Mon. July 13 House 11:02 a.m. to 3:33 p.m. Senate 11:24 a.m. to 4:12 a.m. (Tuesday morning) Tues. July 14 No House session No Senate session Wed. July 15 House 11:02 a.m. to 12:33 p.m. No Senate session. Thurs. July 16 House 11:11 a.m. to 6:22 p.m. Senate 11:08 a.m. to 6:25 p.m. Fri. July 17 No House session No Senate session Bob Katzen welcomes feedback at bob@beaconhillrollcall.com Video Calling Solutions for Tech-Challenged Seniors Dear Savvy Senior, Can you recommend some simple devices that can help techchallenged seniors with video calls? My 80-year-old mother has been isolating herself for months now in fear of the coronavirus and I haven’t been able to see her face-to-face in quite a while. Concerned Daughter Dear Concerned, Video chatting is a great way to stay connected and keep tabs on an elder parent when you can’t be there, but it’s even more important now during this pandemic as many isolated seniors are also suff ering from chronic loneliness. To help connect you and your mom virtually, there are various products on the market that offer simple video calling for seniors who have limited ability or experience with technology. Here are four devices to consider. GrandPad: This is a top option for simple video calling, and much more. The GrandPad is an 8-inch tablet specifi cally designed for seniors, ages 75 and older. It comes with a stylus, a charging cradle and 4G LTE builtin so it works anywhere within the Consumer Cellular network – home Wi-Fi is not required. Ready to go right out of the box, GrandPad provides a simplifi ed menu of big icons and large text for only essential features, providing clutter-free, one-touch access to make and receive video calls, send voice emails, view photos and videos, listen to personalized music, check the weather, play games, browse the Internet and more. A GrandPad tablet costs $250 plus $40 monthly service fee and is sold through Consumer Cellular at GrandPad.net or call 888545-1425. Amazon’s Echo Show: With its built-in camera and screen, the voice-command Echo Show also provides a simple way to have face-to-face chats with your mom, but she’ll need home Wi-Fi installed. Echo Shows, which come in three screen sizes – 5-inch ($90), 8-inch ($130) and 10-inch ($230), will let your mom make and receive video calls to those who have their own device, or who have the Alexa app installed on their smartphone or tablet. Once you set up her contacts, to make a call your mom could simply say, “Alexa, call my daughter” And when you call her, she would ask Alexa to answer the call (or ignore it). There’s also a feature called “drop-in” that would let you video call your mom’s device anytime without her having to answer it. Available at Amazon.com, the Echo Show also offers thousands of other features your mom would enjoy like voice-activated access to news, weather, her favorite music and much more. If you decide to order an Echo Show device for mom, be sure your ask Amazon to mark it as a gift so it doesn’t get tied to your Amazon account. For instructions to help your mom set it up, or if she doesn’t have a smartphone, go to Amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html, and type in “Help Loved Ones Set Up Their Echo Show Remotely” in the “fi nd more solutions” bar. ViewClix: This is a smart picture frame specifi cally designed for elderly seniors that lets family members make video calls, send photos and post virtual sticky notes with messages to their loved ones ViewClix from their smartphone, tablet or computer. Seniors, however, cannot initiate video calls from their ViewClix. Home Wi-Fi is also required. Available in two sizes – 10-inch for $199, and 15-inch for $299 – you can learn more about this product at ViewClix.com. Facebook Portal: If your mom is a Facebook user, a voice-command Facebook portal (see portal.facebook.com) is another simple way to stay connected – home Wi-Fi is needed. Portals, which come in three sizes – the original 10-inch Portal ($179), the 8-inch Mini ($129) and the massive 15-and-a-halfinch Portal Plus ($279) – are like Echo Shows, except they connect through Facebook. With a Portal, your mom can video call your smartphone or tablet (and vice versa) using Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp. 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.
Page 16 THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 Space for Lease 3 Large Rooms, each with Large Walk-in Storage Area. or Aerobics Studio. Located at Route 1 South at Walnut Street. Rollerworld Plaza, Route 1 South, 425 Broadway, Saugus. Call Michelle at: 781-233-9507 ~ Home of the Week ~ SAUGUS...Nicely updated 7 room Colonial boasting to move in! View the interior of this home right on your smartphone. OBITUARIES Donald F. Hagstrom ly and friends throughout the years with cookouts, birthday parties and celebrating the holidays, especially Christmas Eve. Donald was predeceased by his siblings Earl, Charles, Robert, Norman (Red), Thomas Hagstrom, Geraldine Cann and Clare West. He will be greatly missed by all who knew this outstanding man. In lieu of fl owers, donations O f Revere, at 89 years, who passed on July 18, 2020. Donald leaves his beloved wife of 58 years, Gilda (Ambrosino) and children Geraldine (Hagstrom) Paskowski of Danvers, John Hagstrom and partner Rangsun Sitthichai of Watertown, and Frederick Hagstrom and wife Julianne of Andover. He was the son of the late Oliver and Martha (Lee) Hagstrom. Adored grandfather of Alexander Roberts and his wife Madelyn of Marblehead; Erik, Genevieve, Ian, and Aaron Paskowski of Danvers, and Elizabeth and Catherine Hagstrom of Andover. Loving great-grandfather of Finn and Soren Roberts. Wellrespected uncle of many nieces and nephews. Born in Arlington, Donald grew up in East Boston. He was very proud of his 20-year career in the U.S. Army, where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his time spent in Vietnam, as well as the Commendation Medal from the Military Police. He attended Newbury Junior College where he obtained an Associate’s Degree. He retired from John Hancock Insurance Company after 23 years of service. Donald enjoyed classical music, French wine and Italian food. He loved entertaining famiCopyrighted material previously published in Banker & Tradesman/The Commercial Record, a weekly trade newspaper. It is reprinted with permission from the publisher, The Warren Group. For a searchable database of real estate transactions and property information visit: www.thewarrengroup.com. BUYER1 BUYER2 Bedoya, Alejandra C Gavens, Melissa L Koutu, Karika Chen, Dennis Aquize, Marcelo Aquize, Luis Chavarria, Luisa F Lemus, Jose E REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS SELLER1 SELLER2 Tempo LJ Corp Sadowski, Marie T Steeves, Timothy S Breedens Lane LLC Contreras, Katherine G Berrio, Elkin G Durning, Rosemarie Palumbo, David US Bank NA Tr Alfaro, Jorge A Demaino Linda N Est Maragheh, Navid Shrestha, Sunita Bodner, Leonard S Ibric, Sabrina Ibric, Dzevad Pentelute, Bradley L Pentelute, Erika Cavallo Corp Lucero, Cesar A Reddy, Yogesh Rupp, Heidi L ADDRESS 86 Shawmut St Sadowski, Samuel J 109 Salem St #208 110 Breedens Ln 23 Blaney St #2 191 Garfi eld Ave 1469 N Shore Rd 56 Shawmut St Bodner, Sandra J 35 Fowler Ave Ibric, Esada Gouda-Ibrahim, Ahmed Zitouni, Amal Shekar, Supriya El-Hassnaoui, Mohamed DATE PRICE 02.07.2020 $ 529 000,00 02.07.2020 $ 469 000,00 145 Bennington St #318 02.07.2020 $ 338 550,00 01.07.2020 $ 782 500,00 01.07.2020 $ 440 000,00 30.06.2020 $ 550 000,00 30.06.2020 $ 430 000,00 30.06.2020 $ 330 000,00 30.06.2020 $ 530 000,00 29.06.2020 $ 420 000,00 29.06.2020 $ 1 275 000,00 19.06.2020 $ 510 000,00 17.06.2020 $ 190 000,00 OBITUARIES | SEE PAGE 17 may be sent to the Emphysema Foundation of America, 5858 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 302, Los Angeles, CA 90036 or to the Restoration Fund at the Immaculate Conception Church, 119 Beach St, Revere, MA 02151. Daniel J. Callahan, Jr. A t 90 years, in Revere, formerly of Dorchester, unexpectedly, July 21. Beloved husband of the late Rose (DeRosa) Callahan. Lovingly survived by his devoted companion of 17 years, Frances D. Diglio with whom he made his home. Dear brother of the late Mary Margaret Ash. Cherished uncle of Joanne Ash & her husband Patrick Pickup of Marshfi eld & Judith A. “Judi” Lemoine 89 Atwood St #89 7 Belcher St 31 Jones Rd 45 Mccoba St #51
THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 Page 17 Revere firefighters and medics help deliver baby By Tara Vocno I t was a favorable outcome, a job well done and a proud moment for a family, Cataldo Ambulance and the Fire Department when they delivered a baby on the side of Lee Burbank Highway last Thursday. “On arrival the baby had delivered, and the Engine 1 crew assisted with the birthing process and stabilized both the mother and the baby [Lennox Vuijk],” said Fire Capt. Robert OBITUARIES OBITUARIES | FROM PAGE 16 & her husband Kevin of Norwell. Also lovingly survived by his 3 grandnephews, James W. Hutchinson & his wife Lauren of Marshfi eld & William P. & Daniel J. Lemoine, both of Norwell. Family & friends are invited to attend a Visitation on Friday, July 24 in the Vertuccio & Smith, Home for Funerals, 773 Broadway (Rte. 107), REVERE beginning at 12:00 p.m. (noon) thru 1:15 p.m. followed by the Funeral Service in the Funeral Home at 1:30 p.m. & immediately followed with interment in Woodlawn Cemetery, Everett. Parking available left of the funeral home. In accordance with the mandates set forth by the ongoing pandemic, masks must be worn at all times & social distancing maintained. Retiree of Bradlee’s Department Stores & Motorola Corp. Army Veteran of the Korean Confl ict & member of the V.F.W. Mottollo Post #4524. In lieu of fl owers, remembrances may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, TN 38105-9959. Amelia B. (Masiello) DeCristoforo-Frederick and his wife Patricia, Janelle Namey, Kristen Suozzo and her husband James, Alysse Corolla, and Lauren Corolla and her fi ancé Charles Ahern. Great grandmother of Ayla, Lianna, Natalie, Blake, Stephen, Everleigh, and Christopher. Caring sister of Thomas Masiello and his wife Diane, Raymond Masiello and his wife JoAnn, and Marion Costigan and her late husband George. Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins. Barbara (Levine) Eisenberg 90 , of Chelsea formerly of Revere. Entered Eternal Rest July 16, 2020. Barbara was a retired employee for the city of Revere. Devoted wife of Carl Eisenberg. Dear sister & sister-in-law of the late Melvin & Edith Levine, the late Albert & Gertrude Eisenberg and Evelyn & the late Harry Beder. Beloved aunt of Ilene & Jonathan Cutler, Dianne & Burton Gesserman, Dr. Jerold Levine, Rhonda & Scott Marks, Dr. Mitchell Pressman & late Carol Jacques, Ruth Pressman & late Peter Pressman, and the late Kenneth Pressman. Cherished grandaunt of many grandnieces and grandnephews. Due to current health conditions, services are private. In lieu of fl owers, expressions of sympathy in her memory may be donated to Dana Farber Institute 10 Brookline Place West, 6th Floor, Brookline, MA 02445 or Hebrew Senior Life 1200 Centre St. Roslindale, MA 02131. Loretta A. (Church) Ravagno A ge 82, of Revere, formerly of East Boston, passed away on Sunday, July 19, 2020. Amelia was the cherished daughter of the late Valentino and Stella (Terilli) Masiello. Beloved wife of the late Robert DeCristoforo and Lawrence Frederick. Loving mother of Robert DeCristoforo, Jr. and his wife Carol of Danvers, Marie Namey and her husband John of Revere, and Karen Corolla and her husband Robert of Winthrop. Adored grandmother of Jennifer Hincman and her husband Dave, Michelle Hinchey and her husband Dave, Michael Namey Ravagno, Sr. Adored mother to John L. Ravagno & his companion Patricia of Gloucester, Diane R. Colella & husband Thomas of Revere, Lisa M. Licata – Schepici of Saugus & the late Carmen M. Ravagno, Jr. Doting & devoted grandmother to John L. Ravagno, Jr. & wife Kate of Salem, NH, Jarrod M. Ravagno of Gloucester, Carmen M. Ravagno, III & Christopher P. Ravagno, both of Grafton, Vito Michael Licata of Waltham & Ariana M. Licata of Saugus. Dear sister to Edith M. Beninati of Derry, NH & the late Luke Church, Jr. Cherished daughter to the late Luke Church, Sr. & Edythe V. (MacCormack) Church. A Loretta A. (Church) Ravagno George J. Sullivan and had worked as a Clerk for the U.S. Postal Service for 22 years before his retirement. George is survived by his fi ve A t 86 years, in Revere, July 17th, her passing resulting A t 86 years, in Revere, July 17, her passing resulting from complications due to COVID-19. Wife of the late Carmen M. from complications due to COVID-19. Wife of the late Carmen M. Ravagno, Sr. Adored mother to John L. Ravagno & his companion Patricia of Gloucester, Diane R. Colella & husband Thomas of Revere, Lisa M. Licata-Schepici of Saugus & the late Carmen M. Ravagno, Jr. Doting & devoted grandmother to John L. Ravagno, Jr. & wife Kate of Salem, NH, Jarrod M. Ravagno of Gloucester, Carmen M. Ravagno, III & Christopher P. Ravagno, both of Grafton, Vito Michael Licata of Waltham & Ariana M. Licata of Saugus. Dear sister to Edith M. Beninati of Derry, NH & the late Luke Church, Jr. Cherished daughter to the late Luke Church, Sr. & Edythe V. (MacCormack) Church. Family & friends are invited to attend the Funeral Mass on Friday, July 24th at 11:00 a.m. in St. Anthony of Padua Church, 250 Revere St., Revere. Interment in Woodlawn Cemetery, Everett will be held privately. Visiting Hours are respectfully omitted. All attendees are asked to report directly to church & observe the pandemic mandates, i.e. masks must be worn & social distancing must be observed. Flowers are welcome, however remembrances may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 309 Waverly Oaks Rd., Waltham, MA 02452. The staff at Vertuccio & Smith, Home for Funerals of REVERE is honored to have assisted the family in the completion of funeral arrangements. To send online condolences, please visit www.vertuccioandsmith.com ge 72, died on Thursday, July 16. Born in Chelsea and raised in Revere, George was the son of the late Thomas L. and Irene B. (McGrath) Sullivan, Sr. He was a graduate of the Immaculate Conception School in Revere and Bridgewater State College brothers and sisters, Thomas L. Sullivan, Jr., Dennis G. Sullivan and his wife Carmela, Bernadette M. Hyyti, Irene P. Larcome and her late husband Robert, John P. Sullivan and his wife Janice; ten nieces and nephews, Shawn and his wife Sory, Mark and his wife April, Tom and his wife Sheri, Julie and her husband John, David Scott, Robert and his wife Andrea, Jay, Melissa and her husband Bill, Ryan and his wife Amanda, Brendon and his wife Bethany; 16 great nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his nephew Bryan. In lieu of fl owers, donations in George’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org or the Northeast Animal Shelter at northeastanimalshelter.org/donations. ~Handyman Services~ •Plumbing •Electric •Ceiling Fans •Waterheaters + More Call Tom 781-324-2770 Fortuna. Lennox’s mother, Erin, delivered her while en route to the hospital. Following the delivery, Lennox was attended to and wrapped for warmth, according to Fortuna. —Tara Vocino may be reached at printjournalist1@gmail.com. AAA Service • Lockouts Trespass Towing • Roadside Service Junk Car Removal 617-387-6877 26 Garvey St., Everett MDPU 28003 ICCMC 251976
Page 18 THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 Frank’s House Painting 781-289-0698 “PROPER PREP MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE” - F. FERRERA • Exterior FREE ESTIMATES --- FULLY INSURED • Interior • Ceiling Dr. • Paper Removal • Power Wash • Carpentry ~ HELP WANTED ~ Construction Help Wanted Seeking Full-Time Laborers Basic construction knowledge, MA Drivers License with clean driving record a must. EVERETT ALUMINUM Call Steve at: (617) 389-3839 We follow Social Distancing Guidelines! KITCHEN CABINETS To Look Like New 508-840-0501 FURNITURE STRIP & FINISH We buy STAMPS & COINS 781-324-2770 Revere For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 781-286-8500 or Info@advocatenews.net WASTE REMOVAL & BUILDING MAINTENANCE • Landscaping, Lawn Care, Mulching • Yard Waste & Rubbish Removal • Interior & Exterior Demolition (Old Decks, Fences, Pools, Sheds, etc.) • Appliance and Metal Pick-up • Construction and Estate Cleanouts • Pick-up Truck Load of Trash starting at $169 • Carpentry LICENSED & INSURED Call for FREE ESTIMATES!
THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 Page 19 Follow Us On: COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY SALES & RENTALS Sandy Juliano Broker/President Keeping our sellers & buyers safe is our top priority! Stay Well and we will return to full time, full service soon! NEW LISTING BY SANDY WE KNOW EVERETT!! Call TODAY to sell or buy with the best! NEW LISTING BY NORMA NEW LISTING BY NORMA OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY JULY 26, 2020 12:00-1:30 67 CLARENCE ST., EVERETT 6 ROOM SINGLE WITH FINISHED BASEMENT NEW PRICE! $559,900 LISTED BY SANDY SINGLE FAMILY 39 LEXINGTON ST., EVERETT $725,000 LISTED BY SANDY SOLD BY NORMA! SINGLE FAMILY 33 WOODWARD ST., EVERETT NEW PRICE! $399,900 LISTED BY NORMA SOLD BY SANDY! 123 CENTRAL AVE., EVERETT SINGLE FAMILY $449,900 SOLD BY SANDY! SINGLE-FAMILY 67 DARTMOUTH ST., EVERETT NEW PRICE! $484,000 SOLD BY NORMA! 11 FAIRLAWN ST., EVERETT TWO FAMILY $759,900 EVERETT APT. FOR RENT Sometimes, the Key to Joe DiNuzzo - Broker Associate www.jrs-properties.com O Open Daily From 10:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. 433 Broadway, Suite B, Everett, MA 02149 D il F 10 00AM 500 PM Norma Capuano Parziale - Agent Denise Matarazz - Agent 617-448-0854 Maria Scrima - Agent Follow Us On: 617.544.6274 Rosemarie Ciampi - Agent Kathy Hang Ha -Agent Mark Sachetta - Agent
Page 20 THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2020 # 1 “Experience and knowledge Provide the Best Service” View our website from your mobile phone! 335 Central St., Saugus, MA 781-233-7300 WONDERING WHAT YOUR HOME IS WORTH? CALL FOR YOUR FREE MARKET ANALYSIS! LITTLEFIELD REAL ESTATE SAUGUS ~ Rehabbed colonial. New windows, siding, new kitchen with quartz counters, stainless appliances, new cabinets. New hardwood flooring throughout house. New heat. Central AC. New maintenance free deck. .........$570,000 WAKEFIELD CONDO ~ 3 rooms, 1 bed, 1 bath, newly renovated, SS appliances, granite, high ceilings, deeds parking, pets allowed ....... $269,900 SAUGUS ~ Rehabbed colonial, 4-5 bedroom, 2 full baths, gas heat, central AC, new siding, new roof, hardwood flooring, fresh paint, new kitchen with SS appliances quartz counters ...............$559,900 38 Main Street, Saugus MA WWW.LITTLEFIELDRE.COM 781-233-1401 WAKEFIELD ~ New construction duplex. 3 bed, 2.5 baths, 2400 sq feet, garage under, central AC, Gas heat, fireplace living room ............. Call Keith Littlefield for pricing REVERE BEACH ~ Condo, 2 beds, 2 baths, quartz counters, SS appliances, central AC, beautiful ocean views, indoor pool, gym, sauna ...... $394,900 SAUGUS ~ Birch Pond Estates. 3 bed, 3 bath split, Vaulted ceilings, finished walkout lower level, gas heat, central AC, gas fireplace, 2 car garage, sprinkler system, manicured grounds .................... $729,000 SAUGUS ~ 3 bed, 1.5 bath colonial. Open concept 1st floor, 2 car garage, newer gas heat, roof and HW heater, prof landscaping....$439,900 SAUGUS ~ Oversized split entry, stainless appliances, granite counters, great location, large 3 season sun room. in-law apartment ... $644,900 Call Rhonda Combe For all your real estate needs!! 781-706-0842 MELROSE ~ Single family, 4 bed, 2 full bath, SS appliances, new gas heat, quartz counters, Central AC, Garage under ...................$650,000 LAND FOR SALE SAUGUS Call Rhonda Combe at 781-706-0842 for details!! Call Eric Rosen for all your real estate needs. 781-223-0289 SOLD SOLD UNDER CONTRACT
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