THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020 Page 3 Mayor declares state of emergency in Everett F By Christopher Roberson orty-eight hours after a local state of emergency was declared in the neighboring city of Malden, Everett Mayor Carlo DeMaria decided to follow suit. He said the purpose of the order, which took eff ect at 6 p.m. on March 20, is to “facilitate and expedite the use of resources to protect persons from the impacts of COVID-19.” Other surrounding communities that have also declared states of emergency include Medford, Revere, Somerville, Lynn and Cambridge. Under the state of emergency, the following types of businesses must temporarily close unless they are able to provide their services at a minimum distance of six feet: hairdressers, barbers, nail salons, gyms, health clubs and yoga studios, private instructor classes, such as driving and tutoring schools, and spa-type services for cosmetic purposes that are not deemed medically necessary. “As a city, as a state, as a nation and as an international community, we are faced with an unprecedented time,” DeMaria said in a written statement. “Day-by-day, hour-byhour, the responses to the COVID-19 pandemic are evolving.” He said teamwork between state and city offi cials is crucial in the fight against the coronavirus. “We will not be able to make signifi cant progress fi ghting back against the DiFlorio was not overly concerned about the fi scal challenges that the city could face as a result of prolonged business closures. “What’s more important, money or health?” she asked. “I’m sure we’ll fi gure out a way.” Ward 3 Councillor Anthony Mayor Carlo DeMaria spread of the virus unless we see decisive and timely action from the higher levels of government,” said DeMaria. “The need for prompt, accurate and accessible communication is more important now than ever before.” DeMaria also reminded residents that although City Hall remains closed, its departments are still accessible and are operating remotely. “A shutdown does not mean a slowdown,” he said. “While this pandemic poses a major test of our collective fortitude, together, as a city and as a people, we will get through this diffi cult period of time.” City Council President Rosa DiFlorio said she completely supports DeMaria’s decision to declare a state of emergency. “The mayor and his administration are doing an unbelievable job,” she said. “This is such an important step not to spread this virus around.” Update regarding pending cases in Middlesex County P lease be advised that the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court issued an order limiting in-person proceedings in state courthouses until at least April 6. During this time, the staff of the Middlesex District Attorney’s Offi ce will be working remotely. Be assured that although these physical locations are closed, staff remains committed to fulfi lling all the obligations of the core mission to protect public safety, safeguard due process rights of defendants and ensure that victims of crime receive justice. If you need to contact the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office, please use the main line: 781-897-8300; staff will be answering calls during regular business hours, and voicemails left on this line will be checked and your call will be returned. If you have an emergency, please do not call the offi ce and call 911. Victims and witnesses in upcoming cases should be advised that the Massachusetts Trial Court has suspended all trials until April 21. All other court dates have also been suspended. The Middlesex District Attorney’s Offi ce is in the process of reaching out to individuals directly regarding the status of these cases. If you have been charged with a crime, or are the family member of someone charged with a crime, you should contact your or their attorney. Resources for survivors of rape and/or domestic violence are available 24/7 to help you think through ways to stay safe through SafeLink and the National Domestic Violence Hotline: MIDDLESEX | SEE PAGE 7 Everett's Newest Real Estate Office Commercial Sales and Leasing Residential Home Sales Real Estate Consulting Apartment Rentals Real Estate Auctions Business Brokerage Personal Property Appraisals Mass Licensed Auctioneer DiPierro is also backing the mayor’s state of emergency declaration. “The administration has kept an open line of communication with the City Council,” he said. “We have all been working collectively to ensure services can still be delivered to the residents.” DiPierro also said he understands the level of trepidation facing small businesses. “I come from a family of small business owners, and the fear of what lies ahead is real,” he said. “Those challenges are being evaluated and the sooner we can get through this outbreak, the sooner we can return to normalcy.” Although Ward 1 Councillor Fred Capone agrees with the state of emergency, he described the fi nancial ramifi cations of so many businesses temporarily closing their doors. “Closure of businesses is always of concern, especially as many small businesses operate on very thin fi nancial margins,” he said. “Business owners should go online to see what relief may be available to help during this transition. Employees of closed businesses may struggle if paychecks stop.” However, Capone also said that as with any crisis, COVID-19 will loosen its grip at some point. “When it does, our lives will go back to normal,” he said. “A community is only as strong as its residents, and we in Everett are blessed with many wonderful individuals.” In addition, Capone said he will remain available to residents and can be reached at 617-387-9045 or via email at HYPERLINK "mailto:fred@caponelaw.net" fred@caponelaw.net. Residents can also contact Jerry Navarra, executive director of Health and Human Services, at HYPERLINK "mailto:jnavarra@ci.everett.ma.us" jnavarra@ci.everett.ma.us or 617-784-7718 or Public Health Nurse Sabrina Firicano at Sabrina.fi ricano@ci.everett. ma.us or 857-888-0723. 505 Broadway Everett, MA 02149 Tel: 617-387-1120 www.gkdental.com • Family Dentistry • Crowns • Bridges • Veneers/Lumineers • Dental Implants • All on 4 Dental Implants • Emergency Dentist • Kid Friendly Dentist • Root Canals • Dentures • Invisalign Braces • Snap On Smile • Teeth Whitening We are the smile care experts for your entire family In House Dental Plan for $399 (Cleanings, X-Rays, Exams twice a year and 20% OFF Dental work) Schedule your FREE Consultations today 560 Broadway, Everett, MA 02149 | 617-512-5712 | sam@broadwayRE.com ADRIANA RESNICK DOMENICA RIGGIO SAM RESNICK
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