Calls for Prayer for Haiti
The Everett Haitian Community Center – which was formed in the wake of the 2010 Earthquake in Haiti – responded this week to the devastating news of a 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Haiti on Aug. 14 – just a month after political turmoil erupted in the wake of the assassination of Haiti’s president in his home.
EHCC asked for its partners in the community to pray for the country, and also asked Haitian Americans in Everett to check on their family – and that the EHCC could be helpful with that if there is a problem connecting.
The Everett Public Schools (EPS), Mayor Carlo DeMaria, Councilor Gerly Adrien and others responded last weekend with offers to help and solidarity as well.
“The Everett Public Schools wishes to extend its thoughts and prayers to the people of Haiti and those affected by (the Aug. 14) earthquake,” read a statement from EPS.
Everett has one of the largest and most concentrated populations of Haitian Americans in the Commonwealth, with an estimated 17,000 to 20,000 residents of Haitian descent.
Demaria to host hale park and central ave park community meeting
Mayor Carlo DeMaria is pleased to announce that he will be hosting a community meeting at Hale Park on Glendale Street on Wednesday, September 1 at 6pm to discuss the renovations of Hale Park and Central Ave Park.
“After hearing concerns from neighbors, I thought it was best to organize a meeting to gather feedback regarding Hale Park and Central Ave Park,” said Mayor DeMaria. “Our parks and recreational spaces are an important part of our City and I look forward to meeting with the residents of this community to learn more about their thoughts.”
Over the past few weeks, residents have expressed their unhappiness with both Hale Park and Central Ave Park. Mayor DeMaria and the Administration want to hear the community’s feedback to make improvements to the current conditions.
Do I need a 3rd dose of the COVID-19 vaccine?
Mayor Carlo DeMaria is pleased to announce that the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) is providing information to the community regarding a possible third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
“Vaccinating and protecting our community from the pandemic has been a priority of my Administration,” said Mayor DeMaria. “With the developing information regarding a third dose, we want to share this information with Everett residents to ensure they are aware of the development.”
The MDPH is reviewing the actions by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) from last Friday that recommended a third dose of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine for some individuals with compromised immune systems including individuals who have:
• Been receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the blood
• Received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system
• Received a stem cell transplant within the last 2 years or are taking medicine to suppress the immune system
• Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (such as DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome)
• Advanced or untreated HIV infection
• Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other drugs that may suppress your immune response.
MDPH is urging residents who have questions or concerns about whether they would need a third dose to contact their medical provider. For more information, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/clinical-considerations/covid-19-vaccines-us.html.
Please stat tuned as further information and guidance will soon be available.
Outdoor summer movie night
Mayor Carlo DeMaria is pleased to announce that the City of Everett will be hosting an Outdoor Summer Movie Night on Friday, August 20 at Everett Veterans Memorial Stadium. Gates open at 7pm and the movie will begin at 8pm.
“The City of Everett’s Outdoor Summer Movie Night is a special event for members of the community,” said Mayor DeMaria. “It is a great night for residents to gather and enjoy a family friendly movie at Everett Stadium. I look forward to seeing everyone.”
The featured movie is Disney Pixar’s Luca. Luca was released earlier this summer and has become a fan favorite for all ages. Popcorn and light refreshments will be served.
St. therese affordable housing lottery information
Mayor Carlo DeMaria is pleased to announce that the St. Therese Affordable Housing Project has determined an anticipated timeline for their lottery. Applications will become available beginning in December 2021.
“The City of Everett has been committed to increase affordable housing in the community,” said Mayor DeMaria. “When the St. Therese Church closed its doors, we made the decision to repurpose this community gathering place to continue to serve the needs of our community. I am grateful to the Baker-Polito Administration, The Neighborhood Developers, MassHousing & Commonwealth Building, Mass Development, East Boston Neighborhood Health Center, and our community partners for their work and support with this development.”
Once applications become available in December 2021, the anticipated due date for applications will be January 2022. The lottery is expected to be held in February 2022, and the construction is anticipated to be completed in May 2022.
First time homebuyers are eligible to participate in the lottery for the opportunity to purchase one of the six townhouses being built. Seniors ages 62 and over are welcomed to participate in the lottery for the opportunity to rent one of the 77 affordable rental homes. Everett residence will receive preference for all units.
For more information and to receive updates regarding the project such as project information, recent updates, FAQs, and lottery information, please visit https://theneighborhooddevelopers.org/sign-up-for-updates and sign up for updates. The Neighborhood Developers will reach out via phone, email, and mailing to notify interested parties when the application becomes available.
Outdoor summer concert series
Mayor Carlo DeMaria is pleased to announce that the City of Everett will be continuing the Outdoor Summer Concert Series on Thursday, August 19 between 6pm-8pm. The concert will occur at Wehner Park located at Broadway and Lynn Street in Everett.
“Our Summer Concert Series is a perfect opportunity to spend an evening outside and enjoy some great music,” said Mayor DeMaria. “Our first concert in July was a great success and I look forward to our community coming together and having a good time.”
The concert is kid-friendly and free to the public. It will feature a local favorite, Smokin’ Joe and the Henchmen. The performance will include songs from the 1940’s to the 1990’s, and more. Seating will be provided; however, residents are welcomed to bring their own chair or a blanket. Light refreshments will be served.
Virtual Youth Public Safety Academy program announced
Fire, bicycle and water safety as well as physical fitness will be the focus of this year’s Virtual Youth Public Safety Academy (YPSA), the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office announced today (preview video link).
“We are excited to once again be able to offer a series of online lessons for youngsters living in our 54 cities and towns,” said Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian. “While we are disappointed we are not able to meet in person this summer, our YPSA staff and community partners have put together an outstanding set of public safety and health lessons for children and families.”
This year’s Virtual YPSA sessions will be available on the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office Facebook, Twitter and YouTube channels during the week of August 15 – 21. Each lesson will run between approximately 20 – 25 minutes in length.
The first episode – recorded on site at the Wilmington Fire Department – will focus on fire and kitchen safety with a bonus feature on making homemade grilled cheese. It will be released on August 16.
Episode number two – recorded in conjunction with the Cambridge Police Department and Middlesex District Attorney’s Office – will center on bicycle and water safety. It will premiere on August 18.
The final episode will be focused on physical fitness and will be available on August 20. That lesson was recorded at Malden’s Macdonald in partnership with the Malden Recreation Department.
city of everett COMMUNITY NOTIFICATION ENROLLMENT
Mayor Carlo DeMaria is pleased to announce that residents can now sign up to receive important news and updates in their preferred language from the City of Everett through CodeRed, a community notification.
Residents who do not currently receive alerts can register for this service. This program is now available in English, Spanish, Portuguese and French.
“It is important to keep our citizens informed about information and events,” said Mayor DeMaria. “Registering for our alerts is a way to ensure that all residents are informed of any news or updates occurring in the City. We wanted this program to be inclusive since Everett is such a diverse community. Everyone deserves to know what’s happening where they live. We will continue adding more languages to the program so all of our residents are comfortable and informed.”
The City of Everett encourages all residents to sign up for the public service announcements to receive news and updates in the community. Residents can sign up by going to cityofeverett.com, clicking on “CodeRed”, creating a managed account and your preferred language. Once residents are signed up, they will receive the next community alert.
EHS Band fundraiser features local Celebrity Bartenders at Stewart’s Pub
The award winning Everett Crimson Tide Marching Band has been invited to perform at the 80th commemoration event of Pearl Harbor in Hawaii this December. Fundraising efforts have been well underway throughout the community all summer long, including $200,000 in funding secured by State Senator Sal DiDomenico. To compliment these efforts, elected officials from Ward 3 will be hosting a celebrity bartending event on Sunday, September 12th at Stewarts Pub on Elm Street from 2-6 PM.
The event is being co-hosted by City Councilor Anthony DiPierro, School Committee Chair Frank Parker, City Councilor Richard Dellisola and City Councilor Mike Marchese. The group will be taking turns serving up drinks and hopes to draw a crowd for a day that promises to be full of fun and camaraderie for a good cause.
The event marks the 4th Celebrity Bartending event hosted by the Ward 3 group. In years past, the group has been able to raise over $8k for the youth of the Devens School to fund field trips and other activities. The hosts would like to thank proprietor Anne Stewart for her continued community support, by once again offering her establishment to benefit the students of Everett.
If you are unable to attend, but would still like to donate, checks can be made payable and sent to “Everett Public Schools – Music Dept.”, Attn: Penny Yebba, 100 Elm Street, Everett, MA 02149.
Kitty Connection Online Auction: August 20 – 22
Kitty Connection, an all-volunteer non-profit dedicated to rescuing and finding safe, loving homes for local cats and dogs, will hold an End of Summer/Back to School Online Auction from 4 p.m. Friday, August 20, through 9 p.m. Sunday, August 22, at www.myminiauction.com/kittyconnection.
“Kitty Connection is so grateful to generous animal lovers throughout Greater Boston who have helped us raise over $8,000 through online auctions this year. These funds support the rescue and fostering over 700 cats each year, including many that need medical care before they can be placed in adoptive homes,” said Kitty Connection President Marie Mazzeo, noting that the organization is planning an in-person auction in November.
Kitty Connection provides critical high-cost medical care, including surgeries, for 30 to 50 cats annually, and provides funds for low-cost medical care to 30 to 50 adopters following adoption of their pets. Volunteers provide foster homes for animals until they are adopted, and Kitty Connection ensures that pets are spayed/neutered, tested for common illnesses, and vaccinated prior to adoption.
In addition, Kitty Connection runs a low-cost spay/neuter program for pet owners in need and provides education and outreach in the community about the importance of responsible pet ownership. The organization anticipates restarting its feral cat trap/neuter/return program when it’s safe for volunteers, after the pandemic has subsided.
Dozens of items will be up for bid during the End of Summer/Back to School Online Auction, including baskets in various themes perfect for the season, and many gifts and items for kids, pets, and adults.
Auction rules and logistics are posted on the auction website, and items up for bid will appear there at the auction start time (4 p.m., Friday, August 20). Please direct any questions to [email protected]. To learn more about Kitty Connection’s mission and pets available for adoption, visit: www.kittyconnection.net.
Better Bus Meeting
The MBTA will be hosting a virtual Better Bus meeting on Aug. 26 at 6 p.m. via Zoom. The meeting will discuss the Better Bus Project and how the MBTA is working to improve the bus experience for riders through initiatives including real-time arrival information, bus transit priority, and other bus service improvements. Presentations will be given by project teams from across the MBTA, including the following: Bus Network Redesign, Bus Transit Priority, Bus Stop Accessibility Improvements, Bus Operations, Silver Line Extension, Bus Electrification/Facility Modernization and Bus Stop E-Ink Signs.
Attendees may also join breakout rooms for in-depth discussion, and to share thoughts and feedback with the project teams. Members of the public can register for the meeting online. Once registered for this Zoom event, an email will be sent with a link to join the meeting when it goes live at 6 PM on August 26. The meeting will also be recorded and posted online for those who cannot attend.
Monthly Blood Pressure Screenings at the Connolly Center
Mayor Carlo DeMaria, The Council on Aging and Cambridge Health Alliance are thrilled to announce Blood Pressure Screenings have returned to The Connolly Center for seniors over the age of 60. Screenings will take place the fourth Monday of each month, beginning Monday August 30that 10am. The Connolly Center is located at 90 Chelsea Street, Everett. CHA has arranged for a trained clinician to assist with this program. For additional information please call Camille at 774.360.7521 or 617.394.2323.
“Aging Backwards” At The Connolly Center
Mayor Carlo DeMaria and The Council on Aging are very excited to welcome back Everett’s own, Jill Tiberi Martin, to The Connolly Center for a new class” Aging Backwards” every Thursday at 11am beginning September 16. This slow paced program is a full body workout, created by Miranda Esmonde –White. It aims to release tight muscles, rebalance joints, restore your body, relieve pain, and stimulate your cells to increase energy and your immune system. This program is available to seniors aged 62 and over. For additional information, please call 617.394.2323 or 617.394.2260
Street Milling and Paving Schedule
•Wednesday, August 18 – Adams Avenue (Elm Street to End), Newton Street, Windsor Street, Albion Street, Waverly Street – 7p.m. – 3:30 a.m.
•Thursday, August 19 – Waverly Street, Clark Street (Main Street to Bucknam Street), Beacon Street (Main Street to Bucknam Street), 7 p.m. – 3:30 a.m.
• Thursday, August 19 – Thursday, August 26 – Elm Street, 7 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
•Friday, August 20 – Beacon Street, Pearl Street (Main Street to Tremont Street), Peirce Avenue (Main Street to Tremont Street), 7 p.m. – 3:30 a.m.
•Sunday, August 22 – Thursday, August 26 – Main Street, 7 p.m. – 3:30 a.m.
Outdoor Summer Concert Aug. 19
The City of Everett will be continuing the Outdoor Summer Concert Series on Thursday, August 19, between 6-8 p.m. The concert will occur at Wehner Park located at Broadway and Lynn Street in Everett.
“Our Summer Concert Series is a perfect opportunity to spend an evening outside and enjoy some great music,” said Mayor DeMaria. “Our first concert in July was a great success and I look forward to our community coming together and having a good time.”
The concert is kid-friendly and free to the public. It will feature a local favorite, Smokin’ Joe and the Henchmen. The performance will include songs from the 1940’s to the 1990’s, and more. Seating will be provided; however, residents are welcomed to bring their own chair or a blanket. Light refreshments will be served.
Vaccine Clinics
Some 68.6 percent of Everett residents have received the COVID-19 vaccine, and there are more vaccine opportunities from the mobile vaccine van coming up this week.
The schedule is as follows, and no appointment is necessary.
•Aug. 19, Glendale Park, 4-7 p.m.
•Aug. 26, Meadows Park, 4-7 p.m.
The clinics are in partnership with Curative and will be offering the Pfizer vaccine.
A Message from the Elections Office
The City of Everett is looking for Poll workers!
Poll workers:
• Must be a registered voter in Massachusetts
• Willing and able to go to any precinct given to you
• Assure that the election laws of the state are followed
• Ability to sit for long hours
• Bi-lingual preferred
On the day of the election, you must report to the polling place by 6:30 am and remain until after the polls close at 8:00 pm.
The current pay starts at $200 per election and there is one mandatory training – training typically lasts one hour and we offer a morning and afternoon session for your convenience.
If you are interested, please contact the Election Commission office at 617-394-2297 or stop by Room 10 at Everett City Hall for an application.
End of Summer Extravaganza
The rain washed away the Independence Day celebration but as promised, the City will host an End of Summer Extravaganza on Sept. 3 at 5 p.m. in Glendale Park. There will be live entertainment, food and fireworks at 8:30 p.m. Free admission, and rain date of Sept. 4.
Zion Church Community- In- Unity Block Party
Zion Church Ministries, 757 Broadway, invites all to join them on Saturday, September 18, from noon to 3 p.m. for their Annual Community-in-Unity Block Party. Enjoy free food, entertainment, a Gaming Truck, activities for children, free health screening, giveaways, and more. It’s time to have some fun, so mark the calendar and come celebrate at the Community-in-Unity Block Party.
September Senior Citizen Social
Mayor Carlo DeMaria and The Council on Aging have planned the monthly Senior Social for Wednesday September 15, 2021 at Anthony’s Restaurant, 105 Canal Street, Malden. Our event begins at 11:45am. It is a Pizza Party. The menu planned is as follows; Minestrone Soup, Antipasto Salad, Pizza, Coffee, and dessert. You will also enjoy dancing to the song stylings of Ray Cavicchio. Ticket sales for this event are September 2,3,7,9 & 10 between the hours of 9am and noon. For additional information please call us at 617.394.2323 or 617.394.2260.
LUMA Announces Multicultural Fest
LUMA Director Lucy Pineda this week announced they will hold the 14th annual Everett Multicultural Festival all day long on Aug. 29 at the Lafayette Playground.
The event is free of charge and has moved from Sacramone Park to the Lafayette after not having a festival last year. There will be lots of music, including Grupo Los Nitidos, Carlos Latin Band and others – as well as food from around the globe and traditional dancers.
Everett Seniors on the Road Again!!
Mayor Carlo DeMaria and The Council on Aging have planned a long awaited trip to Maine for our annual Lobster Bake for Wednesday September 22, 2021. Our luxury Silver Fox coach will pick us up at The Everett Stadium Parking lot at 8:30am. Our first stop is the famed Stonewall Kitchen, where you will have time to browse through the many jellies, jams and other onsite made goodies. Our next stop is the fabulous Foster’s for a traditional Down East lobster bake. Our meal includes, New England clam chowder, Steamed mussels and Maine Clams, Fresh lobster (or chicken) baked potato and dessert. After our feast, we will stop at When Pigs fly artisan breads, and then to Yummies Candy emporium, featuring over 10, 000lbs of bulk candy, packed sweets and vintage products. Reservations must be made in person with our trip coordinators Hazel McNeil and Carol Dello Russo, at The Connolly Center August 9 through August 13. Please make checks payable to The City of Everett. For additional information please call 617.394.2323 or 617.394.2260
COVID Testing Site
The Stop the Spread COVID-19 testing program will continue through October 31. The City of Everett’s COVID-19 testing site will remain at Rivergreen Park at 1 Rivergreen Drive in Everett. Below please find the schedule:
Testing times include:
•Monday to Thursday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
•Friday and Saturday, noon to 6 p.m.
Cataldo Ambulance Services will continue to administer these tests. This is a walk-up only site. No appointment necessary.
Meditation for Senior Citizens
Mayor Carlo DeMaria and The Council on Aging are happy to announce Mindful Meditation for seniors at The Connolly Center. The schedule is as follows; Fridays, August 20 and September 3 at 8:30 a.m. This class is designed for you commune with your inner self, promoting self-awareness and the well-being of mind body and spirit. Please join Anna Noble from East Boston Health for this rewarding class. Reservations are required by calling 617.394.2260 or 617.394.2323. Class size is limited to 20 people.
Volunteers Needed
The Bread of Life mobile food pantry at the Lafayette school in Everett needs volunteers to help distribute free groceries on Thursdays from 3 to 5pm. Call Charlene @ 781-824-0564 or email [email protected] The Bread of Life mobile food pantry distributes food to needy families every Thursday from 3-5 p.m. at the Lafayette School in Everett.
GOOD NEWS AT THE CONNOLLY CENTER FOR SENIORS
Mayor Carlo DeMaria, The Council on Aging, Cambridge Health Alliance and The Everett Foundation for Aged persons are happy to announce “Fitness Programming is Back” The weekly schedule is as follows;
•Monday at 9am: Low Impact Aerobics with Miguel
•Monday at 10am: Healthy Steps with Julie
•Monday at 11am: Country Western Line Dancing
•Tuesday at 9am: Zumba Gold with Miguel
•Thursday at 9am: Chair Yoga with Miguel
•Thursday at 10am: Senior Cardio with Christian
•Thursday at 1pm: Belly Dancing for Seniors with Sue
•Friday at 9am: Mindful stretching and gentle movement with Christian
•Friday at 10:15am: Low Impact Cardio and balance with Calvin
A gentle reminder, participants must be age 62 and over. Please wear proper footwear. Please check with your doctor before participating in our programming. For additional information please call 617.394.2323 or 617.394.2260.