THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, APRIL 3, 2020 Page 15 Expanded video conferencing to take effect in response to COVID-19 B ILLERICA – In response to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, more court appearances will happen by video conference beginning next week for those in custody at the Middlesex Jail & House of Correction. “I want to thank the Judiciary for expanding video conferencing as we all attempt to balance access to the courts and the need to maintain public health during this ongoing situation,” said Middlesex Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian, who worked with judicial officials on the order. “This will reduce the numbers of individuals we will need to transport to courts on a daily basis, while ensuring matters involving those same individuals are not delayed.” The order issued by Chief So far, so good for early morning seniors at Stop & Shop By Christopher Roberson T hus far, the 90-minute shopping window that Stop & Shop has reserved for senior citizens has been going well since taking effect on March 19. “While the first day was busier than anticipated, we are now seeing that shoppers are staggering the days they visit the store to ensure a less crowded environment,” said Stop & Shop spokesperson Maria Fruci. “It’s important for our customers to remember that this is not a one-day event. Community members ages 60 and over can shop from 6 to 7:30 a.m. any day of the week.” She said some of Stop & Shop’s competitors only offer senior shopping times on certain days; however, the company wants to ensure that every measure is being taken to shield seniors from the spread of COVID-19. “We felt it was important to better enable customers to practice social distancing,” said Fruci. Everett resident named to Principal’s List at Bishop Fenwick P EABODY – Sophomore Isabel Wade of Everett was named to the Principal’s List for the second quarter at Bishop Fenwick High School. To be eligible for the Principal’s List, a student must have a minimum grade point average of 3.7. For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 617-387-2200 or Info@ advocatenews.net She also said younger customers have not interfered with the early morning shopping time. “Our customers have been very respectful of our intent to protect the most vulnerable among us with these special shopping hours,” said Fruci. She also said that tape has been put on the floor to reinforce the six-foot minimum distance as directed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and that plastic guards have been installed at every cash register and at the pharmacy. “We’re asking that customers please stand behind the clear plastic guards until all groceries have been scanned and payment is complete,” said Fruci. In addition, she said that as customer volume allows, every other checkout lane will be used to continue social distancing. Justice of the District Court Paul Dawley, among others things, allows those in the custody of sheriffs to be arraigned by video conference. The order will be in effect through May 1.
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