THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2023 Page 5 ~ OP-ED ~ On Vision and Change By Gerry Visconti V ision is defi ned as the ability to think about or plan the future with imagination or wisdom. “A vision is not just a picture of what could be. It’s an appeal to our better selves, a call to become something more.” Our mayoral candidates differ on the importance of defining vision, not just for our future, but the concept, itself, and its role as a component of leadership. Councilor Keefe’s campaign has no vision, no platform, and no playbook. The “Agenda Of Yes” is nothing more than following orders. It’s Yes to Developers First. But without vision, falling in line – and relying on support for the previous administration’s eight-year track record of putting developers fi rst – has proven to be a miscalculation. Over just a few months occupying the mayor’s offi ce, questionable judgment on public safety and inappropriate behavior resulting in a grievance fi led with the department of labor has caused many to believe Councillor Keefe has neither the capability nor the temperament to navigate complex issues and lead the city through what lies ahead. Councilor Rizzo often states his “positions haven’t changed” on the issues. But the city’s changed… a lot in 12 years. Former mayor Rizzo has also stated that he believes “vision is overrated.” On danrizzo.org – No vision, Hemorrhaging money and deeper in debt Question to the Leader Herald: Where is the cash? By James Mitchell he Certifi ed Public Accountant for Dorchester Publications and the Everett Leader Herald newspaper, Wayne Sparrow, off ered his sworn testimony at the Boston law offi ces of Saul Ewing on Sept. 8, 2023 in the ongoing defamation lawsuit fi led by Everett Mayor Carlo DeMaria against Dorchester Publications, LLC, the Everett Leader Herald newspaper, Matthew Philbin, Andrew Philbin, Sr., and Sergio Cornelio. Sparrow testifi ed that he began as CPA since the newspaper was purchased by Andrew Philbin, Sr. in 2016 – as well as doing accounting services and tax preparations for owner Matthew Philbin for over 20 years for his various business holdings and T properties. The CPA stated that he would receive the company QuickBooks fi les from Philbin’s bookkeeper, Alissa Johnson, which would provide Profi t & Loss statements for the company. Sparrow stated that if someone provided cash to the company, he wouldn’t know it and it would not be reported on the company’s tax returns. Sparrow stated that he has also provided CPA services for Andrew Philbin, Sr. since 1982 and had discussed the defamation lawsuit with him on only one occasion. Sparrow stated that he recalled the senior Philbin telling him that there was a lawsuit fi led against his son, Matt, involving the mayor of Everett. DEFAMATION | SEE Page 7 no platform but literally a single Frequently Asked Question: “There are claims that if Dan Rizzo becomes the Mayor of Revere, he plans to terminate everyone’s employment. Can you confi rm if this is accurate information?” We cannot solve problems with the same thinking that created them. Leadership begins with a defi ned vision. Our vision is clear and our message has always been direct. Our campaign is about fresh perspective and forward-thinking, focused on building a better future. Our administration will be ready to take decisive action FUTURE | SEE Page 15 Working to improve city services and support programs that benefit the entire community. Supporting our local economy and exploring new economic opportunities for Revere and its residents. Being a vocal advocate for investing in Revere’s student and schools. Fighting for everyone who calls Revere homeby promoting policies that are responsive to the needs ofALL residents Vote Marc Sept 19 9th on the Ballot ( 72 4 A <63 !-# ,7:>3 < 7 “The well-being& qualityoflife ofRevere residents remainsmytop priority. If re-elected I will continue to be a champion for our residents and remain committed to making Revere an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.” -Marc Silvestri, Revere City Councillor At-Large As City Councillor Marc will continue:
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