Expanded COVID Testing Sites
Representative Joe McGonagle, along with the House of Representatives, passed H.4340 which appropriates $30 million to establish and expand COVID testing sites, with at least $5 million dedicated to expanding vaccination rates among kids ages 5 to 11. The youth vaccination efforts would be focused on communities disproportionately affected by the virus. Instead of tapping into some of the $2.25 billion that remains in state American Rescue Plan Act funds, the bill spends money out of the state’s general fund with instructions in the bill pointing to reimbursements from FEMA.
“As we move forward through the COVID pandemic, we need to learn how to the live with the virus and the difficulties that come with it,” said McGonagle. “Increased access to vaccination and testing sites will allow people to continue their regular routines while feeling safe to do so.”
The vote to pass the bill was unanimous in the House, 159-0. The House is shorthanded as a result of the resignation of Claire Cronin of Easton. The House broke from its consideration of the COVID-19 spending bill to celebrate Cronin’s confirmation as U.S. ambassador to Ireland.
“It was great to be back in Chambers to not only vote for this terrific bill but also to honor my good friend Claire Cronin. I am thrilled for her and our loss is Ireland’s gain,” said McGonagle.
The bill was passed by the Senate and now lays before the Governor.
Suspect Charged in Everett Warehouse Fire
Everett Police Chief Steven A. Mazzie, Everett Fire Chief Scott A. Dalrymple, and State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey announced an arrest in last month’s suspicious fire in Everett.
Everett Police this afternoon charged MICHAEL MAMBRINO, 18, with one count each of burning a building and causing injury to a firefighter. The charges stem from a joint investigation into the Jan. 23 fire at 69 Norman St. in Everett. That fire completely destroyed a warehouse and caused major damage to a nearby garage; one firefighter suffered injuries that were not life-threatening in the course of the multi-agency response.
The investigation leading to Mambrino’s arrest was undertaken jointly by members of the Everett Fire Department, Everett Police Department, and State Police Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office. It included an examination of the scene, witness statements, video footage, physical evidence, and other investigative steps.
Connolly Center Book Club News
Mayor Carlo DeMaria, The Council on Aging and The Everett Public Libraries are excited to announce the return of The Connolly Center Book Club for seniors. Facilitated by librarian Kathleen Slipp, the book club will meet in the conference room at The Connolly Center the second Wednesday of each month at 10:30AM. “The Venice Sketchbook” by Rhys Bowen is our featured book for this month. “A clever prologue referring to Romeo and Juliet sets the stage for Bowen’s …diverting romantic adventure in Venice. This is a must read for historical fiction enthusiasts. Books are available for check out at The Connolly Center. Please see Cathi or Joanne. For more information, please call 617.394.2323
ST. Patrick’s Day Senior Social Planned
Please join Mayor Carlo DeMaria and The Council on Aging for the monthly Senior Social, Wednesday March 16, 2022 at Anthony’s Restaurant, 105 Canal Street in Malden from 11:45am to 3pm. In celebration of St Patrick’s Day, The COA has chosen a traditional Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner complete with Irish Soda Bread, Coffee and Dessert. You will also enjoy dancing to the song stylings of Ray Cavicchio and his band, Tickets for this event are available for purchase March 3,4.7.8,10 & 11 at The Connolly Center. For additional information please call Dale or Cathi at 617.394.2323.