The First Annual Silvio Cella Family Foundation Golf Tournament, raised over $20,000 for the Foundation’s annual grant program, which will help give high school football programs in Massachusetts the tools needed to be successful on the gridiron and help prepare young men for college, careers and family.

At the dinner following the Tournament, our special guest speaker, Pete Brock, N.E. Patriots great and current president of the Patriots Alumni, truly brought home the message about the value of high school football and the impact a dynamic and dedicated high school football coach can have on his players and his community.

It was a day of great golf, with some healthy competition on the course. Here are the winners from the First Annual Silvio Cella Family Foundation Golf Tournament:

First Place Foursome: Lance Kelly, John Ferrara, Dan Maguire, Adriene Maguire

Second Place Foursome: Kris Oldoni, Anthony Selvitella, Rick Coppola, Rick Dotolo

Third Place Foursome: Eddie DeLorenzo, Ralph Zavarelli, Mark Foster, Lou DeVito

Honorable Mention — Shot a Double Eagle on #18:

Les Vitale, Jimmy Pearl, Bob Rosetti, Chris Rosetti

Longest Drive/Men: Steven Cella (Coach Cella’s Grandson)

Longest Drive/Women: Angela Nogueira

Closest to the Pin: Steve McDonald

Wonderland Dog Track announced on Thursday afternoon that they would be acquired by a subsidiary of Suffolk Downs within 90 days, and would then sell the property to a very well known developer.

Wondy CEO Dick Dalton told the Journal and the Revere License Commission that SSR (Sterling Suffolk Racecourse) Acquisitions, headed up by Suffolk’s William Mulrow, was preparing to purchase Wonderland by at least December 15.

Dalton told the Journal that the property would then be transferred over to a well-known developer that cannot be disclosed at this time.

"At the end of the day it will be something the city will be very proud of," said Dalton. "It’s someone I’ve done business with for over 30 years and is very well known throughout New England and has done tremendous projects all up and down the East Coast that can be looked at once he is made public. Even if we did get gaming going, this has been in the works for quite some time."

Dalton said that as a result of the option on Wonderland retained by Suffolk Downs, the dog track would have been re-developed no matter what the outcome on gaming. The workers and assets would have simply been transferred to Suffolk Downs upon the passage of expanded gaming Legislation.

Now, though, it appears the property will be re-developed, but the workers will have nowhere to go.

A source at Suffolk Downs confirmed that the scenario laid out by Dalton is correct – that SSR intends to purchase the property this year.

Another source indicated that part of the development – the anchor of the project – might be a Lowe’s Hardware Store.

Mayor Tom Ambrosino said that no one had been in yet to speak with the city. He did indicate that the city would not be looking for any new residential developments.

"They’ve not been in to see us, but as I’ve said before, the city thinks very highly of Suffolk’s ownership, so we’d be happy for them to acquire the property," said the mayor. "We’d prefer a commercial development, some kind of small office building. Retail would be okay. I don’t think [residential] would be something the city would be overly enthusiastic about, but we would have to see the details."

A simple sign hung on the front door Thursday morning at Wonderland Greyhound Park.

There were no press conferences held or historic photos rolled out.

In fact, the city’s largest employer for decades and its claim to fame for years just sputtered out of existence with only a handful of words.

“Wonderland Park is closed and has ceased all operations. Thank you for 75 great years,” read the sign, which was accompanied by another sign explaining how to redeem winning tickets.

It was a sign that everyone’s been expecting for the last 10 years, but somehow a sign that the track’s ownership has avoided time and time again.

Not this time.

“All I’ve been saying all day is that it’s a very emotional day,” said Wondy CEO Dick Dalton on Thursday afternoon, just after a License Commission meeting in City Hall. “Beyond the history of the track, it’s just dealing face to face with people who have been co-workers of mine for 37 years. That’s a real challenge for me to deal with and will continue to be.”

Some 150 or so workers left at the track said they found out about the closure when they arrived on Thursday. Like everyone else, they discovered the news when they saw the sign on the door.

“I have no idea what I’ll do now,” said Revere resident Paul DeFilippo on Thursday in front of the track. “I’ve been here for 33 years. It’s a good job. This was a great place to work. I guess I’ll collect unemployment and you can add me to the 10 percent unemployment rate we have going now.”

Dalton said that other track workers echoed those sentiments to him.

No one knows just what they will do.

“I talk to many of our workers – they’ve been there for 30 years or more and they’re in their 50s or late 50s; they’re saying, ‘What do I do now at my age?’ A lot of them are maybe 57 years old and they want to know who is going to hire them at their age. They’re very down.”

Dalton added that the state Secretary of Labor brought down a quick response team on Monday and Tuesday to meet with the newly unemployed track workers. That included setting them up with unemployment benefits, new job offerings and job training.

Dalton said the true end of Wonderland was not the recent ban on dog racing or the failure of expanded gaming, but rather the opening of Foxwoods Casino in Connecticut in 1992.

“When I look back and see it was only 1990 when we set a world record for annual pari-mutuel handles and we were having million dollar nights and everything was going unbelievably,” said Dalton. “Then Foxwoods opened and everything changed for us. That’s really when we started our fall. You can even graph it out and see it. It’s very clear.”

Meanwhile, track workers at Wonderland had their own opinions as to who had put them out of work.

Many workers had been slated to transfer to Suffolk Downs had expanded gaming come to fruition.

Late last week, they weren’t blaming Wonderland for their lost jobs.

“This is the fault of the three goons on Beacon Hill,” said DeFilippo and a handful of other workers. “We’re talking about [Gov. Deval] Patrick, [Sen. President Therese] Murray and [House Speaker Bob] DeLeo. They played a game of Russian Roulette with us. We are the people who got hurt on this. They’re going to go out to their fancy restaurants tonight and have not a thing to worry about. These three goons played with our lives and they have been doing so for 10 to 12 years.”

When asked by reporters if they blamed Wonderland for the closure, it was unanimous that the track was not the focus of their ire.

“We’re blaming the politicians,” said DeFilippo. “[Wonderland] is fortunate they kept this place open as long as they did. The money ran out. The politicians put us in this position and money can only last so long.”

State Sen. Anthony Petruccelli (D-East Boston) said Wonderland’s closure was a good reason to get the Legislature to come back into session and reconsider expanded gaming.

“It’s a sad day for the generations of families that have worked at Wonderland as Wonderland was a part of the fabric of the City of Revere and a source of employment for people over the years,” he said. “Its suspended operation is further evidence as to how important the issue of expanded gaming is to Massachusetts. That’s why I support coming back into session and revitalizing the discussion around expanded gaming.”

It seems that might be in the works, but each day that transpires without some sort of compromise or announcement seems to be a day further away from anything substantive happening.

Most now agree that there will be no legislation this year.

Mayor Tom Ambrosino said that Wonderland’s closure is a sad situation.

“I’m sad for the employees,” he said. “I can’t say it wasn’t unexpected because it was pretty much inevitable.”

It is a tragedy of the first order.

First, there are the nearly 100 longtime employees who have lost their jobs.

Second, it is the end of an industry, which came to exist only electronically in its last and most current incarnation.

What might have been is what the closed track is all about.

The expanded gaming bill intended to save Wonderland has instead killed it.

What seemed certain at the beginning of the summer turned to failure by the end of it.

When the state government killed the expanded gambling bill, Wonderland came close to death.

It finally died and shut its doors last Friday.

The once proud and busy track, one of the busiest in the nation at its height, is now officially a largely empty parking lot set for sale to Suffolk Downs and then given for development to the highest bidder.

Wonderland’s time had long ago passed it by.

The times changed but the track never really changed with it.

The Lottery ruined it.

The proliferation of Lottery betting and casinos in Connecticut also cut into it.

Then dog racing was banned – and then the track was left with simulcasting – that is – broadcasting races from other tracks across the nation.

In its final months, Wonderland went from bad to worse.

Near the very end, it was a track and an industry on intensive care without a future.

The halcyon days of dog racing are forever over.

We are left with a lifetime of memories – those of us who remember the track when it was busy and the place to go.

We are saddened by its closing.

The front page photograph showed a smiling Lodie – and our thoughts, shared by many of our readers – what is this jail bird smiling about?

He is already serving 8-12 years as an accessory to the death of Talbot in his 2007 shooting death behind Revere High School.

The photograph showing Lodie says it all about him.

We hope his 8-12 years in prison wipes a bit of that arrogance away.

Jorge Barreto, 44, of 135 Atlantic Ave., was arrested on a charge of assault & battery.

Rainer Lee Lentz, 57, of 742 Broadway, was arrested on charges of assault & battery and assault by means of a dangerous weapon.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 17

Brian J. Henault, 39, of Somerville, was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

Joaquin V. Loza, 49, of East Boston, was arrested on charges of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of liquor, operating a motor vehicle negligently so as to endanger, and leaving the scene of an accident after causing property damage.

Donna R. Woodside, 45, of East Boston, was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

A 14 and a 16 year old juvenile were arrested on outstanding warrants.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 19

Julie Anne Rizzo, 42, of Danvers was arrested on charges of assault & battery and assault & battery by means of a dangerous weapon.

Jibriyl Adamib Abdul Shafi, 24, of 110 Thornton St., was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 20

Chad W. Harris, 31, of Saugus, was arrested on an outstanding warrant and on a charge of larceny of property over $250.

Gabriel S. Megna, 46, of 418 Revere Beach Parkway, was arrested on a charge of shoplifting, 3rd and subsequent offense.

Yesenia Isabel Ortiz, 37, of 56 Bateman Ave., was arrested on charges of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of liquor and operating a motor vehicle recklessly so as to endanger. She also was cited for the civil motor vehicle infraction of a marked lanes violation.

Ronda L. Shook, 28, of Saugus, was arrested on charges of assault & battery and larceny of property over $250.

A 15 year old juvenile was arrested on a charge of mayhem.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 21

Kenneth J. Cutliffe, 39, of 85 Whitten Ave., was arrested on charges of breaking & entering in the daytime with intent to commit a misdemeanor and illegal possession of a Class E controlled narcotic substance.

Juan M. Haro, 38, of 53 Furnace St., was arrested on a charge of assault & battery.

Evelio Mendez, 20, of Lynn, was arrested on a charge of unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle.

Scott James Milus, 41, of 644 Beach St., was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

Andy A. Roldan, 23, of 18 Sumner St., was arrested on a charge of assault & battery by means of a dangerous weapon.

Anthony A. Sabella Jr., 57, of 34 Dawes St., was arrested on a charge of assault & battery.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 22

David Chhoy, 21, of 39 Highland St., was arrested on charges of assault & battery and assault by means of a dangerous weapon.

Michael Falkowski, 50, of Melrose, was arrested on a charge of illegal possession of a knife in violation of the city ordinance.

Arthur R. Lebel, 29, of 62 Shawmut St., was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

Justin L. Smith, 19, of Lynn, was arrested on an outstanding warrant and on charges of being rude & disorderly and illegal possession of a knife, both in violation of the city ordinance.

Oneida Y. Wallace, 30, of East Boston, was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

Winthrop resident

Josephine Namey of Winthrop, formerly of Malden, died at the Whidden Hospital, Everett on August 15. She was 82 years old.

Born in Lebanon, the daughter of the late Naif and Saide Mahanna, she came to this country at an early age. She was the beloved wife of Tophill Namey and the devoted mother of Lila and William Lucas of Malden, James Namey, John and Marie Namey of Revere, Philip Namey of Brockton and Ann Marie Dotten of South Carolina; the loving grandmother of Michael, Janelle, Philip Jr., Justin, Jessica, Richie and Christina and great grandmother of Stephen.

Funeral arrangements were by the Caggiano Funeral Home, Winthrop. Burial was private. To sign her online book of condolence go to www.caggianofuneralhome.com.

Kathleen Morelli

Bank Vice President

Kathleen (Connolly) Morelli, a 42 year resident of Revere, formerly of Lynn, died on August 23 at Kaplan Family Hospice of Danvers following a two and a half year battle with breast cancer. She was 65 years old.

Born and raised in Lynn, she was a 1963 graduate of Lynn Girls English High School. She entered banking as a teller for North Shore Bank in Danvers and Salem and quickly rose to managerial positions. In 2005, she joined the ranks of Central Bank and was appointed Vice President of Banking and Branch Manager of the Melrose and Malden offices. She was a member of the Melrose Rotary Club and a Board Member of the Melrose Council on Aging.

Mrs. Morelli leaves her husband of 42 years, Albert J. Morelli Jr., recently retired Superintendent of the Revere Council on Elder Affairs.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children, Marisa A. Murphy and her husband, John, and Toby J. Morelli and his wife, Denise. She was the cherished grandmother of Matthew A. and Evan M. Morelli and Liam J. and Hailey E. Murphy, all of Saugus; sister of Maryanne Nikson of Merrimac, MA and Patricia Page and her husband, Robert, of Danvers and is also lovingly survived by several nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Thursday, August 26 from 4 to 8 p.m. in the Vertuccio & Smith Home for Funerals, 773 Broadway (Route 107) Revere. Her Funeral will be conducted from the Funeral Home on Friday, August 27 at 9 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Anthony of Padua Church, 250 Revere St. Revere at 10 a.m. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Lynn. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Hospice of the North Shore, 74 Sylvan St., Danvers, MA 01923.

Angelo ‘Mike’ Flammia

Florida resident

Angelo M. “Mike” Flammia of Fort Myers, FL. formerly of Somerville, died on August 20.

A US Army veteran of World War II, he was the beloved husband of Annie M. (Agresti) Flammia; father of Michael A. Flammia and his wife, Sherry, of Standish, ME., Annmarie Tessier and Mark of Naples, FL and the late Donna Marie Flammia; grandfather of Alicia and Marissa Tessier and Michelle Gannett; great grandfather of Brianna and Xavier Gannett; brother of Anthony Flammia of Revere, Joseph of Peabody, George of Saugus, Louis of Hanover and the late Frances, Anseim “Rico” and Mary Flammia.

His Funeral will be from the Cota-Struzziero Funeral Home, 197 Washington St, Somerville on Thursday, August 26 at l0 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Ann’s Church, 399 Medford St., Somerville at 11 a.m. Relatives and friends may visit at the funeral home today, Wednesday, from 4 to 8 p.m. Burial will be in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Roslindale. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Vitas Hospice, 4980 Tamiami Trail, North, Suite 102, Naples, FL. 34103.

Mary ‘Betty’ Hausmann

Animal lover and Suffolk Downs devotee

Mary E. “Betty” (Brady) Hausmann, a Beachmont native, died on August 22 at her residence on Revere Beach Boulevard following a brief illness. She was 91 years old.

Born on June 16, 1919 in Beachmont, she was raised in Beachmont and was a graduate of Revere High School, Class of 1937 and Bryant-Stratton Junior College of Boston, Class of 1940. She and her late husband, Carl T. Hausmann, moved to Beverly where they remained for many years before returning to Revere Beach Boulevard in 1980. While living in Beverly, she and her husband were active members of the Couples Club of St. John the Evangelist Church. After her family had grown, she took a secretarial position with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Division of Employment Security where she was employed for more than 10 years.

Mrs. Hausman’s choice of sport was horse racing. As a young girl she was always fond of horses. She became an aficionado of Suffolk Downs Race Track and, as a young girl, she was present for the opening day of Suffolk Downs. Since then, she never missed an opening day event. Mrs. Hausmann love animals, especially her cats. She was a constant and generous supporter of both the MSPCA and The March of Dimes.

Her love for Revere Beach was legendary as she and her husband were among the first occupants of Sea View Towers Condominiums.

The wife of the late Carl T., she was the beloved mother of M. Linda Hausmann-Gilbreath and her husband, Gary, of Marblehead, Paul E. Hausmann of Sterling, MA and E. Laura Hausmann-Reich and her husband, Dr. Steven Reich, of New York City; devoted grandmother of Brian L Gilbreath of New York City, Kyle B. Gilbreath of Boston, Eric C Hausmann of Wilmington, NC., Christine U. Hausmann of Sterling, MA and Joseph Reich of New York City.

Family and friends are invited to visit with the family on Thursday, August 26, beginning at 9 a.m. in the Vertuccio & Smith Home for Funerals, 773 Broadway (Rte 107) Revere followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Anthony of Padua Church, Revere at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Puritan Lawn Memorial Cemetery, West Peabody. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the MSPCA-Angell, 350 So. Huntington Ave, Boston, MA. 02130 or to The March of Dimes, 114 Turnpike Rd, Westborough, MA. 01581

Anthony Corrao

Worked for Rapino Memorial Home

Anthony Corrao of Peabody, formerly of Revere and East Boston, died on August 23.

A US Army veteran and an employee of The Rapino Memorial Home, he was the adoring husband of Mary Lou (Iannetti) Corrao; loving father of Louise Genualdo and her husband, Philip, of Peabody; cherished grandfather of Anthony and Bianca, both of Peabody, and his canine companion, Max; dear brother of the late John Corrao and his surviving wife, Gilda, of Revere and the late Richard “Beashie” Corrao and his surviving wife, Marguerite, of Winthrop. He is also survived by his two nephews, John Corrao and his wife, Gina, of Revere and Kenneth Corrao and his wife, Marisole, of Andover.

His Funeral will be held from The Rapino Memorial Home, 9 Chelsea St. (Maverick Sq.) East Boston on Thursday at 10 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass to be celebrated in Sacred Heart Church, Brooks Street, East Boston at 11 a.m. The family will receive visitors today, Wednesday, from 4 to 9 p.m. Services will conclude with burial in Holy Cross Cemetery, Malden. Donations in his memory may be made to: Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 44 Binney St., Boston, MA 02115. For online condolences, please visit www.rapinomemorialhome.com

Robert Simboli

Of Revere, formerly of the North End

Robert A. “Bobby” Simboli of Revere, formerly of Boston’s North End, died on August 23 at the Whidden Memorial Hospital. He was 65 years old.

He was born and raised in the North End and lived there for most of his life until becoming ill and moving in with his daughter. The proprietor of Simboli Painting Co., he was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Gemini Club in Boston’s North End and was very active in North End Youth Sports.

He was the son of the late Anthony and Edith (D’Antonio) Simboli; beloved husband of Dorothy (D’Ambrosio); devoted father of Robert Jr. of Wakefield and Darlene Cammarata and her husband, John, of Revere; dear brother of Donna Quinn of Somerville and the late Annabelle Leombruno and Joseph Simboli. He is also survived by two loving granddaughters, Gabrielle Cammarata and Alison Simboli and many nieces and nephews.

His Funeral will be held from the Paul Buonfiglio & Sons-Bruno Funeral Home, 128 Revere St., Revere on Thursday, August 26 at 9:45 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Leonard’s Church, Hanover Street, North End of Boston, at 11 a.m. Relatives and friends are kindly invited. Visiting hours are today, Wednesday, from 4 to 8 p.m. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to All Care Hospice, 16 City Hall Square, Lynn, MA 01901. For guest book or flowers, please visit: www.Buonfiglio.com

Thomas Bronsdon

Retired Revere Police Officer

Thomas M. Bronsdon of Clearwater, FL. formerly of Revere and Groveland, died on August 8.

He served on the Revere Police Department for more than 20 years.

He was the beloved husband of Andrea (Zambella) Bronsdon with whom he shared more than 25 wonderful years of marriage; son of the late Chester and Susan Bronsdon; the loving father of Stacey Rizzo of Revere, Kelly Mattera of Derry, NH; Wendy Hennessey of Billerica and Lori Cacciatore of Beverly. He was the devoted grandfather of eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He is survived by three sisters, Dorothy Cadigan of Wilmington; Lorraine MacLellan of Spring Hill, FL and June Gallagher of Omaha, Nebraska. He was the brother of the late Chester, James and Richard Bronsdon and the late Helen Shea and Mildred Grasso.

A Memorial Mass was held at Saint Anthony’s Church in Revere.

Stephen Sabella

Of Revere, formerly of the North End

Stephen A. Sabella of Revere, a former long time resident of Boston’s North End, died on August 19. He was 65 years old.

He was the beloved son of Lillian (Catanzaro) of Boston’s North End and the late Anthony Sabella; father of Toni Jo Sabella of Boxford and Stephen Guttadauro of West Peabody; dear brother of Lucille Ausiello and her husband, Alfred, of Tewksbury.

Funeral arrangements were by the Dello Russo Family Funeral Homes. Burial was at Woodlawn Cemetery, Everett. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Division of Development – Jimmy Fund, 10 Brookline Place West, Floor 6, Brookline, MA 02445-9924. For obituary and guestbook www.dellorusso.net

Joseph Sanders

Boston resident

Joseph Sanders of Boston died on August 20.

The loving son of the late Joseph and Netta (Basano), he was the brother of Steve Saunders and is also survived by his loving cousins and friends.

In accordance with Mr Sanders wishes, funeral services were private. A memorial service will be announced in the fall. Arrangements were under the direction of Ruggiero Mazzarella Memorial Home, East Boston.

Armand Auger

Tewksbury resident

Armand V. Auger of Tewksbury, formerly of Everett, died on August 21. He was 96 years old.

In 1944, Mr. Auger founded the Auger Heating Company of Malden and Everett, which he operated for more than 40 years. In the early 1980’s, he founded the Auger Realty Company of Revere.

He was the son of the late Louis and Marianne (Lavallee) Auger; beloved husband of 70 years to Marie-Jeanne (Petrilli) Auger; devoted father of John P. of Hollis, ME, Richard and his wife, Laurie, of Boxford, Roger and his wife, Linnie, of Billerica, Donald and his wife, Debbie, of Tewksbury, Diane Kelley and her husband, John, of Tewksbury and the late Claire Devanna; brother of Pauline Savage and Therese Descoteau, both of Worcester, and the late Leo, Bernadette and Connie Auger and Isabelle Morin. He leaves 15 grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral arrangements were by the Farmer & Dee Funeral Home, Tewksbury. Memorial donations may be made to V.N.A. of Middlesex-East & Visiting Nurse Hospice, 607 North Avenue, # 17, Wakefield, MA 01880. For obituary, see www.farmeranddee.com

Albert ‘Sonny’ Walles

Of Revere, formerly of Charlestown

Albert G. “Sonny” Walles of Revere, formerly of Charlestown, died on August 15. He was 60 years old.

He was the husband of Shirley (Mellor) Walles; father of Jason, Albert R., John and DawnMarie Walles, all of Revere, and is also survived by three grandchildren, Dylan and Nicki Forti of Revere and Aden Walles of Worcester. He was the son of Albert R. Walles and the late Helen (Dineen) and also leaves six sisters and brothers, Kevin Walles, Edythe Atkins, Margaret Collins, David, Patricia and Martin Walles, all of Charlestown, and his extended family. He was the brother of the late Cathleen Butler and Brian Walles.

Funeral arrangements were by the Greely Funeral Home, Gloucester.A memorial service was held in St. Michael’s Chapel at The Soldiers Home. Memorial donations may be made in his name to the American Heart Assoc., 20 Speen St., Framimgham, MA 01701 or American Diabetes Association , 330 Congress St., 5th Fl., Boston, MA 02210. Online condolences at www.greelyfuneralhome.com

Joan Rizzuti

Of Chelsea, formerly of East Boston

Joan E. (Parziale) Rizzuti of Chelsea, formerly of East Boston, died on August 19.

She was the beloved wife of Joseph P. Ruzzuti with whom she shared 26 years of marriage; loving mother of Suzette Mathews and her husband, David, of Milford and Rochelle Gore and her husband, David, of East Boston; cherished grandmother of David Jr. and Teddy Gore.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Vazza’s “Beechwood” Funeral Home, Revere. For guest book visit: www.vazzafunerals.com.

Josephine Moschella, 100

Chelsea resident

Josephine (Mirabella) Moschella of Chelsea died on August 19. She was in her 100th year.

The beloved daughter of the late Frank and Theresa Mirabella, she was the loving wife of the late Joseph Moschella; loving mother of Anthony Moschella of Revere, Marie Salvati of Boston, Theresa Moschella of Chelsea, and the late Robert Moschella; loving sister of the late John, Anthony, Mary, Joseph Mirabella and Marguerite Tucker. She is also survived by 10 cherished grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and five great great grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements were by the Smith Funeral Home, Chelsea. Burial was in Holy Cross Cemetery, Malden.

Edward Buchanan

Truck Driver and animal lover

Edward Buchanan of Everett, formerly of Saugus, died unexpectedly on August 14 in Maine. He was 54 years old.

Born in Malden, the son of the late Charles and Elizabeth (Konczal) Buchanan, he was raised and educated in Saugus and was graduate of Saugus High School, class of 1973. He worked as a truck driver for Caruso Trucking in Revere for over 30 years. He enjoyed biking, cooking and was a lover of animals, especially dogs.

He is survived by his loving fiancé, Lois Guido, of Everett, his brother Jack “Cuzzin” Buchanan of North Waterboro, Maine, and by many dear friends in Maine and Massachusetts.

Funeral arrangements were by the Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, Peabody. Memorial donations can be made to either the Northeast Animal Shelter, 347 Highland Avenue, Salem, MA 01970 or the E.N. Rogers Memorial Veteran Hospital, 200 Springs Street, Bedford, MA 01730. For online guestbook, visit www.ccbfuneral.com

Evelyn Ross

Resident of Medford and Humarock

Evelyn F. (Haskard) Ross, of Medford and Humarock, formerly of Charlestown, died on August 17.

Mrs. Ross was born in Revere, daughter of the late Walter and Ellen (McBride) Haskard. She was the beloved wife of the late Captain Joseph T. Ross; the devoted mother of Joseph T. Ross Jr. of Chelmsford, David M. Ross of Medford, Richard Ross (Ret. BPD) and his wife, Donna, of Medford, Jeanne M. Huie and her husband, Michael, of Hopedale; loving grandmother of Richard Jr., Michael, Sean and Christopher Ross, Aimee Fotino, Kelly O’Connor, Jason and Caitlin Huie; proud and devoted great grandmother of 19 great grandchildren. She was the dear sister of the late Walter F. and Eleanor Haskard.

Funeral arrangements were by the Dello Russo Funeral Home, Medford. Burial was at Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford. Contributions in her name may be sent to JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund), 60 Walnut St., Wellesley Hills, MA 02481 or the American Parkinsons Disease Association MA Chapter, 720 Harrison Ave., Suite 707, Boston, MA 02118. For guestbook or obituary, www.dellorusso.net

Eleanor Campbell

Of New Hampshire, formerly of Winthrop

Eleanor M. Campbell of Manchester, NH, formerly of Winthrop, died August 20 at her home, surrounded by her loving family, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Brewer, Maine on October 11, 1936, she was the daughter of Lawrence and Isabelle (Adams) King. She resided in Winthrop for 30 years before moving to Manchester in 1993. She graduated from Brewer High School and attended Bryman School of Boston. Early in her career, she worked as an office administrator in Winthrop. Later, she was an admissions clerk with Catholic Medical Center for 10 years. She was a member of the Intervale Country Club and enjoyed playing golf.

A loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, her family was the center of her life. Family members include her husband, John “Jack” R. Campbell of Manchester, NH; three sons, Stanly Peters, Jr. and his companion, Beverly Dow, of Beachmont/Revere, Michael Peters of Fort Myers, Florida, and John Peters of Nashua, NH; four daughters, Terri Kinlin and her husband, Robert, of Metheun, Kimberly Kinlin and her husband, Kenneth, of Methuen, Michelle Fielding and her husband, Michael, and Carol Boudrow, all of Winthrop; 15 grandchildren; her sister, Catherine Grant of Berwick, Maine and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral arrangements were by the Connor-Healy Funeral Home and Cremation Center, Manchester, NH. Burial was in the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, Boscawen, NH. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Visiting Nurse Association of Manchester, Home Health and Hospice, 33 South Commercial Street, Suite 401, Manchester, NH 03101 or to the charity of one’s choice. For more information please visit www.connorhealy.com.

A key figure in Revere Police Officer Dan Talbot’s murder trial – Derek Lodie – has escaped additional jail time for a violent incident on Cooledge Street that happened just a few days before the Talbot murder, and also ended up briefly imprisoning an innocent man.

Lodie, 20, pleaded guilty to aggravated assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and assault for his role in a September 23, 2007 incident during which he attacked three men, stabbing two of them.

He was sentenced to 4-6 years in jail for the stabbing, but the sentence is to be served concurrently with a sentence he is already serving for his role in the Talbot murder. It means that he will have no extra time added to his current sentence, therefore incurring no real penalty for the incident.

His original charge of assault with intent to murder was dropped.

Once again, Lodie was represented by Boston attorney J.W. ‘Jay’ Carney Jr. Afterward, Carney said he preferred not to comment on the current case.

Talbot was murdered on September 29, 2007, and Lodie pleaded guilty to an accessory charge in October 2009. He was sentenced to 8-12 years in State Prison.

Assistant District Attorney Amy Galatis noted that she was aware of Lodie’s prior conviction and said that the stabbing case “is not related to [the Talbot] case in any way.”

She recommended that Lodie serve 4-6 years in State Prison after he completes his current sentence. Nevertheless, Superior Court Judge John Cratsley imposed the recommended sentence, but to be served at the same time as the 8-12-year sentence for Talbot.

Galatis told the court that on the evening of the stabbing, “three young men were walking in the area of Cooledge Street in Revere when they were approached by Lodie.”

Lodie engaged the three men in a verbal argument, and “lunged” at one of the victims, whom she described as “the smallest of the three.” When the two other victims attempted to defend their friend, Lodie stabbed them, before running into a housing development nearby.

One of the male victims, now 21, sustained three stab wounds to the area of his abdomen and chest. A second male victim, now 22, sustained a slice on his thumb. The third male victim, whom Lodie had first targeted, was not stabbed.

Witnesses called 911, and assisted the victims to a responding ambulance. Responding Revere Police officers arrived on the scene, and spoke to individuals at the scene.

One of the individuals police spoke to that day also figured prominently in the Talbot murder trial, though the DA never charged that individual in the Talbot case. The man, Michael Picardi, 23, was an associate of Lodie’s, and allegedly spoke to police on September 23 and purposefully gave them the name of another individual, who was not involved, as the perpetrator of the stabbing. That information led police officers to seek out and obtain a warrant for that individual, who was subsequently charged. That man was cleared two months after the incident.

Picardi is charged with accessory after the fact and misleading police under the witness intimidation statute for his statements to police on that day.

Picardi is due in court on those charges September 3.

An alarm had gone off at the hotel in error, and firefighters had responded around 4:30 p.m. and quickly determined it was nothing of concern.

As they were leaving though, Capt. Glen Rich and Firefighter Tony DiGiovanni noticed a woman in distress in the lobby.

She was having chest pains, but told firefighters to leave her alone and she’d be fine.

Seconds later she collapsed and went into full cardiac arrest.

The two firefighters immediately hit the floor, performing CPR as the woman slipped closer and closer to death.

The rest of the Engine 4 crew, under the direction of Deputy Chief Jim Cullen, quickly retrieved a defibrillator unit from the engine and brought it to aid Rich and DiGiovanni.

Time was running out as they hooked the woman up to the unit.

The automated unit immediately flashed a command to shock the woman ASAP.

They charged the defibrillator unit. They applied a massive shock to the woman.

She immediately sat up and gasped for air, clinging back to a life she nearly lost.

The firefighters also gasped, breathing a sigh of relief as it hit them that they had just saved the woman’s life.

Cataldo Ambulance transported the woman to the Mass General in Boston, where she received further treatment.

“This woman was extremely fortunate that things played out the way they did,” said Chief Gene Doherty. “It was only coincidence that we were there for the alarm when she went into cardiac arrest. It was a real good save and extremely lucky that we were there at that exact moment.”

The chief commended the entire Engine 4 and Ladder 1 crews for an extremely well-executed job.

Suffolk Downs ownership was not kidding when they said they needed casino gaming to sure up its dwindling thoroughbred industry. The famed racetrack’s ownership is trying to force powerful state leaders to go all in on gaming in the state.

With the state’s gaming bill in limbo due to political head-butting between Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo and Governor Deval Patrick, Suffolk Downs announced it will reduce its average daily purse distribution by 26 percent for the second half of its 2010 racing season to achieve a 13 percent reduction in purses for the meet, bringing purse distribution in line with statutory minimums, track officials announced this week.

While Suffolk Downs has said all along that it would have to make tough choices in the very near future if casino gaming did not become a reality in Massachusetts, the timing of the cut to the purses has some wondering if this a move to force DeLeo to wrangle members in the House and make a plea to the Senate to come back in session to get at least part of a casino bill up and running.

The track is in DeLeo’s backyard and it would be his constituents that would lose in a political stalemate on gaming that might result in the closure of Suffolk Downs and Wonderland and the loss of thousands of jobs.

The track’s announcement that they are serious about beginning to roll back purses and may consider job layoffs might have DeLeo reconsidering his tough stance against Patrick’s amendment to the House and Senate’s joint bill that calls for ‘no’ racinos in the state.

A few weeks back DeLeo wanted four, came down to two but could not convince the governor to accept his offer. Both Patrick and the Senate’s version of the state gaming bill called for no racinos in the state.

After much debate Patrick came up from no racinos in the state to one. However, DeLeo refused to come down from his push to get two racinos in the state.

Time ran out on the bill and now legislatures are unsure if they can convince members to come back into session to take up another debate on the bill.

In the meantime, Suffolk Downs is dealing state lawmakers a tough hand.

The purse reduction will bring the daily purse level for the last 50 days of the 100-day live racing meet from the current average of $89,000 per day to an average of $66,000 per day, saving the track over $1 million for the remainder of the season. Suffolk Downs expects to generate approximately $8 million in purses this season based on contributions to purses from handle mandated by Massachusetts’ statute.

“Ownership has invested several million dollars over the last few years in an effort to support local horsemen and enhance our racing product,” said Suffolk Downs’ Chairman Bill Mulrow. “As economic and business conditions worsen, we are faced with difficult decisions as we strive to preserve our current workforce. We understand that this reduction will cause difficulty for the horsemen and horsewomen who have supported our racing program and we appreciate their perseverance.”

Al Balestra, president of the New England Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association said the reduction will have a significant negative.

“This will be a significant and negative impact for our more than 800 members as we strive to preserve the thoroughbred racing and breeding industry in New England and all the related agri-business and economic benefits it provides,” said Balestra. “It will clearly cost jobs on the Suffolk Downs’ backstretch and at Massachusetts farms and suppliers and my concern is that this will force more of our members to leave here to race in Pennsylvania, Delaware, New York, West Virginia and other states that have the benefit of expanded gaming at their racetracks.”

For each of the last three years, track ownership has paid purses well above the minimum required by Massachusetts’ law as part of its commitment to live racing.

Suffolk Downs paid $10.9 million in purses in 2006. New ownership increased purses to $12.1 million in 2007 and $11.9 million in 2008. A reduction last year brought 2009 purses down to $9.8 million.

Even with the reduction, Suffolk Downs expects to operate at a substantial deficit in 2010 and management is looking at additional cost-saving measures, officials indicated.

The FBI agents apparently scrutinized and made copies of numerous contracts and work orders in the Building Department and it appears they went to the City Solicitors office.

In the city solicitor’s office the agents received copies of contracts from the Purchasing Department.

They also interviewed the city’s chief Building Inspector.

They also allegedly examined building permits and expressed an interest in missing building permits and those permits out of sequence.

Beyond that, we have no specific idea either real or imagined, about where the FBI is heading or if this visit was simply a one off.

However, it is clear and it is apparent, the FBI presence at Revere City Hall sends out a strong message that something is up.

The FBI refuses to discuss ongoing investigations – and it did just that regarding their visit to Revere City Hall last week.

Suffice to say, interest at city hall is very high regarding the FBI visit.

Far more interesting in the end, will be the net results, if any, of the visit and the information gathering.

The parking curfew right now treats everyone equally – and this is the way it should remain in order for it to be fairly implemented.

The State Police have said this and made it clear.

We entirely agree with the State Police in this instance.

That being said, if any business – and it is mainly restaurants crying out for help – needs additional parking, there is plenty of room in parking lots on Ocean Avenue that could accommodate hundreds of automobiles as part of a valet parking system.

Valet parking is flawless when run correctly.

Valet parking for those businesses without enough private parking is the way to go – not apportioning spaces to various businesses at the expense of a very well run parking curfew operation.

The state cannot be placed in the position of selling, apportioning or leasing public parking spaces along the beach to bars and restaurants that claim to need them.

Ismar Garcia, 30, of Chelsea, was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

Joshua Rodriguez, 19, of Marblehead, was arrested on an outstanding warrant and on a charge of operating a motor vehicle after his right to operate had been revoked.

Charlie D. Vick, 21, of Everett, was arrested on charges of illegal possession of a knife in violation of the city ordinance and violating a domestic abuse prevention restraining order.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 10

Anthony J. Ciappina, 41, of 7 Jefferson Drive, was arrested on an outstanding warrant and on a charge of shoplifting.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12

Zakaria Benkreira, 18, of 52 Calumet St., was arrested on charges of illegal possession of a Class D controlled narcotic substance with intent to distribute, conspiracy to violate the controlled substances laws, and violating the drug free school zone law.

Eric J. Hanney, 22, of Dracut, was arrested on charges of disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace, and resisting arrest.

Juan David Mercardo, 17, of 23 Sigourney St., was arrested on charges of illegal possession of a Class D controlled narcotic substance with intent to distribute, conspiracy to violate the controlled substances laws, and violating the drug free school zone law.

Christopher A. Otero-Howell, 19, of 13 Kingman Ave., was arrested on charges of illegal possession of a Class D controlled narcotic substance with intent to distribute, conspiracy to violate the controlled substances laws, and violating the drug free school zone law.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 13

Russell Edward Bouche, 27, of 357 Washington Ave., was arrested on an outstanding warrant and on charges of assault & battery by means of a dangerous weapon and making a threat to commit a crime.

Daniel W. Homsey, 30, of 566 Beach St., was arrested on an outstanding warrant and on charges of shoplifting (2nd offense) and providing false identifying information to an arresting officer.

Brian P. Laverty, 29, of Brewster, was arrested on a charge of shoplifting.

Albert J. Sabbag, 41, of 70 Cecilian Ave., was arrested on an outstanding warrant and for being a fugitive from justice.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 14

Jon R. Beauregard, 57, of Malden, was arrested on three counts of assault & battery by means of a dangerous weapon, making a threat to commit a crime, disorderly conduct, and larceny of property under $250.

Kenneth Briana, 24, of Peabody, was arrested on an outstanding warrant and on charges of evading a taxi fare, breaking & entering in the daytime with intent to commit a felony, trespassing, and providing false identifying information to an arresting officer.

Ryan M. Gebar, 23, of 896 Broadway, was arrested on charges of kidnaping, intimidation of a witness, and making a threat to commit a crime.

Jeffrey W. Shaw, 40, of Boston, was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 15

Richard C. Covino, 48, of 40 Avalon St., was arrested on charges of assault & battery and assault & battery by means of a dangerous weapon.

Sean P. Davin, 41, of 141 Lincoln St., was arrested on charges of assault & battery and assault & battery by means of a dangerous weapon.

Mary Johnson

Retired Lithograher’s Union Office Manager

Mary E. (Paul) Johnson, a 59 year resident of Revere, died at home on August 10 following a long illness. She was 85 years old.

Born and raised in Somerville, she was a 1942 graduate of Somerville High School. She married Revere native Ernest C. Johnson, who died in November of 1989. She moved to Revere in 1951 and for more than 15 years, she was the office manager for Local 600 of the Lithographer’s Union on Beach Street, Revere.

While her children attended Revere schools, she was active in and president of the PTA. She also served as a Den Mother for both the Revere Girl Scouts and the Boy Scouts.

She was a long time member of the First United Methodist Church of Revere until its closing and then joined the First Congregational Church of Revere.

She was the cherished mother of Mark E. Johnson and his late wife, Lisa Gail (Stathas), of Woburn, Karen E. and Gayle M. Johnson, both of Revere; devoted grandmother of Nicholas E. and Matthew M. Johnson, both of Woburn; dear sister of Carolyn Lohnes of Spring Hill, Florida and the late Harvey A. and Murray D. Paul. She was the sister in law of the late A. Irene Larrabee and Phyllis D. Johnson and is also lovingly survived by many nieces and nephews.

Funeral arrangements were by the Vertuccio & Smith Home for Funerals, Revere. Burial was in Woodlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Food Pantry at First Congregational Church, 230 Beach St., Revere, MA 02151.

Rose A. Kushmerek

Shawmut Bank retiree

Rose A. (Riccardi) Kushmerek of Revere died at Woodbriar of Wilmington on August 16 following a long illness.

Born in Harrisburg, PA, she moved to Cambridge with her family and later to Somerville where she attended school. She came to live in Revere with her late husband, Stanley W. Kushmerek, 53 years ago.

She worked as a waitress for the former Hayes-Bickford Cafeterias of Boston for several years and for the last 10 years of her working career, she was a clerk for the former Shawmut Bank of Boston (Soverign.)

The was the mother of Stanley J. Kushmerek and his wife, Susan, of Burlington, Frank A. Kushmerek and his wife, Diane, of Tewksbury, Patricia A. Mulligan and her husband, Michael, of Middleton, Rosann Oberle and her husband, Edward, of Algonquin, Illinois; the sister of Josephine Lepera of Cambridge, Pat Riccardi of Winchester, Frank Riccardi of Burlington and the late Mary Perrault, Edith Stafford, Margaret Buono, Sylvester and Dominic Riccardi. She is also lovingly survived by 12 grandchildren, five great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Thursday, August 19 from 4 to 8 p.m. in the Vertuccio & Smith Home for Funerals, 773 Broadway (Route 107) Revere. Her funeral will be conducted from the funeral home on Friday, August 20 at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass in the Immaculate Conception Church at 10:30 a.m. Entombment will be in the Sheffield at Woodlawn Community Mausoleum, Everett. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to your favorite charity.

Paul Hartwell

Of Saugus, formerly of Revere

Paul K. Hartwell of Saugus, formerly of Revere, died on August 16.

He was a US Navy veteran of World War II and a member of the DeFranzo Post 2346 VFW.

He was the beloved husband of Jennie (Maragioglio); devoted father of Paul S. and his wife, Dorothy E., of Stoneham, William T. and his Fiancé, Dorothy Russo, of Saugus; loving grandfather of Scot Hartwell and his wife, Lisa, Dylana Genzale and her husband, Thomas, and four great grandchildren, Dylan, Kelsey, Thomas Jr "TJ" and Breanna; dear brother of Mabel Rowell and the late Esther Gesamondo.

Funeral services will be held in the Paul Buonfiglio & Sons-Bruno Funeral Home, 128 Revere St., Revere on Thursday August 19 at 11 a.m. Visiting hours are today, Wednesday, from 4 to 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the charity of your choice. Burial will be private. For guestbook or flowers please visit www.buonfiglio.com.

Anthony Williams

Revere resident

Anthony Williams of Revere died on August 16.

He was the cherished son of Claire (Calderone), formerly of East Boston, and the late Daniel Williams; dear brother of Daniel Williams and his wife, Lisa, of Florida and the late Edward Williams; loving nephew of Phyllis Varricchio of Chelsea, Gloria Calderone of Revere, Mary Cavaleri, Joseph Calderone and George Calderone, all of East Boston; fond uncle of Michelle and Nick. He also leaves many cousins.

His Funeral will be held from Vazza’s "Beechwood" Funeral Home, 262 Beach Street, Revere, Friday at 9 a.m.followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Anthony’s Church, Revere, at 10 a.m. Family and friends may visit Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery. For directions and guest book, www.vazzafunerals.com.

Alan Bockser

Revere resident

Alan M. Bockser of Revere, formerly of Lynn, died on August 8.

A US Navy veteran of World War II, he was the former husband of Lillian (Greenwald); loving father of Jeffrey Bockser of California and Gary Bockser of Chelsea; cherished son of the late Bennie and Pauline (Marks) Bockser.

Private funeral arrangements at the family’s request were entrusted to Vazza’s "Beechwood" Funeral Home, Revere.

John ‘Hubby’ Annese

City of Boston retiree

John "Hubby" Annese of Orient Heights East Boston died on August 15.

A 27-year employee of the City of Boston Water and Sewer Department, he was a US Navy veteran of World War II.

He was the cherished son of the late Domenic and Teresa (Cogliano) Annese; loving brother of Joseph Annese of Roslindale, Albert "Libby" Annese and his wife, Antonetta, of Revere and the late Rose, Jean, Maria, Lucy and Anthony Annese; fond uncle of Joseph Annese, Ann Maria West and Albert Annese.

His Funeral will be from Vazza’s "Beechwood" Funeral Home, 262 Beach Street, Revere on Thursday at 9 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Anthony’s Church, Revere at 10 o’clock. Family and friends may visit today, Wednesday, from 4 to 8 p.m. Burial will be in Holy Cross Cemetery. For directions and guest book: www.vazzafunerals.com.

Jeffrey Cincotta

East Boston resident

Jeffrey Cincotta of East Boston died on August 7.

The loving son of Madeline Cincotta, he was the cherished grandson of the late Joseph and Rose (Tosini) Cincotta; beloved nephew of Rita Colantonio of Dennis, Alfred Cincotta of Revere, Rosemary O’Brien of Medford, and Joseph Cincotta of East Boston and is also survived by cousins, friends and his treasured dog, Diva.

Funeral arrangements were by The Kirby-Rapino Memorial Home, (Orient Heights), East Boston. For online condolences visit www.kirby-rapino.com.

William Giordano

GE Retiree

William Giordano of Revere, formerly of Somerville, died on August 13. He was 70 years old.

The devoted husband of Deborah (Dumont) Giordano with whom he shared over 50 years of marriage, he was born in Lynn, the son of the late William and Lena (Impolario) Giordano. Raised and educated in Somerville, he later lived in Revere for more than 41 years before retiring to Palm Bay, Florida four years ago. He worked as a machinist for General Electric River Works Plant in Lynn for more than 38 years.

In addition to his loving wife, he is survived by his children, Deborah Giordano of Lowell, Darlene Strogney of West Ossipee. NH, and William P. Giordano, Jr. of Saugus; his siblings, Carol White of Quincy and Robert and his wife, Dorothy Giordano, of Franklin, and is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Matthew Strogney, and William P. III, Bradley and Lindsay Giordano.

There are no funeral services planned at the request of the family. However, donations can be made in his name to the Dana Farber Lung Cancer Institute, 10 Brookline Place West, 6th Floor, Brookline, MA 02445-7226. Arrangements were made by the Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, 82 Lynn St., Peabody. To sign on-line guestbook, visit www.ccbfuneral.com.

John ‘Jack’ Myette Jr.

Of Lynn, formerly of Revere

John "Jack" Myette Jr. of Lynn, formerly of Revere, died on August 12.

A US Customs inspector for 41 years and Wonderland Dog Track employee for 25 Years, he was a member of the Revere VFW Post 6712, Revere Moose and American Legion and a US Navy veteran of World War II.

The beloved husband of the late Grace (Walsh) with whom he shared 49 years of marriage, he was the loving father of Grace Angeleri of New Jersey, John Myette III and his wife, Pamela, of Plymouth, Marianne Myette of Lynn, James L. Myette and his wife, Donna, of Peabody and Joseph F. Myette and his wife, Joyce, of East Boston; dear brother of Charles L. Myette and his wife, Kay, of Revere; devoted father-in-law of Peter Angeleri; cherished grandfather of Mary and Peter Angeleri, John and William Myette, Desarae and James Myette Jr.; uncle of Charles Myette Jr., Kathleen Belschner and Robert Myette.

His Funeral will be held from Vazza’s "Beechwood" Funeral Home, 262 Beach Street, Revere, Thursday morning at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in the Immaculate Conception Church, Revere, at 10:30 a.m. Family and friends may visit today, Wednesday, from 4 to 8 p.m. Burial will be in Puritan Lawn Cemetery Peabody. Remembrances may made in his name to the Soldiers Home 91 Crest Ave., Chelsea, 02150. For guest book and directions www.vazzafuneral.com

James ‘Jay’ Vaccaro

NASA Appreciation Award recipient

James A. "Jay" Vaccaro of Winthrop, formerly of East Boston, died on August 12.

He was a US Army veteran of the Korean War and a NASA Appreciation Award recipient.

He was the beloved husband of Rose ( Dattoli) Vaccaro; loving father of Grace Vaccaro of Revere, Roseann Vaccaro of Lawrence and James Vaccaro of Winthrop; dear brother of Frank Vaccaro and his wife, Barbara, of Brockton; cherished grandfather of Vincent and John Forlizzi and Nicholas Vaccaro.

Funeral arrangements were by Vazza’s "Beechwood" Funeral Home, Revere. Burial was in the VA National Cemetery, Bourne. For guest book: www.vazzafunerals.com.

David Belliveau

Worked for Compucon of Foxboro

David M. Belliveau of Revere, formerly of East Boston and Boston’s North End, died unexpectedly on August 10 at the Whidden Memorial Hospital in Everett. He was 33 years old.

Born in Cambridge, he lived his early years in Boston’s North End. He moved to East Boston and was a graduate of East Boston High School, Class of 1995. He worked for Compucom of Foxboro and was an avid fan of ice fishing and sports.

Three years ago, he married Anne C. (Martin) and moved to Revere.

He was the adored daddy to Catherine A.; cherished son of David L. M. and Virginia (Capozzi) Belliveau and dear brother of Joseph L. Belliveau and his wife, Jennifer, all of Everett. He is also lovingly survived by his mother and father-in-law, William J. and Paula C. (Kirby) Martin of Revere and his brother-in-law Robert J. Martin and his wife, Julie, of Saugus; his devoted grandmother, Rose Capozzi, and his wife’s grandmother, Pauline E. Kirby, both of Revere, many aunts, uncles, cousins and a host of friends. He was the grandson of the late Edward and Dorothy Belliveau.

Funeral arrangements were by the Vertuccio & Smith Home for Funerals, Revere. Burial was private. Remembrances may be made to your favorite charity.

Thomas Bronsdon

Revere Police Department retiree

Thomas M. Bronsdon of Clearwater Florida, formerly of Revere, died on August 8.

Mr. Bronsdon served on the Revere Police Department for more than 20 years.

He was the beloved husband of Andrea (Zambella) Bronsdon with whom he shared over 25 years of marriage; the son of the late Chester Brondson and Susan Martin Bronsdon; the loving father of Stacey Rizzo of Revere, Kelly Mattera of Derry, NH, Wendy Hennessey of Billerica, and Lori Cacciatore of Beverly; the devoted grandfather of Jonathan, Adam and Nicholas Rizzo, Michael and Toria Mattera, Mandy Macomber, Christopher and Daniel Cacciatore and the great-grandfather of Dustin and Emma Kerivan and Jake Macomber. He is also survived by three sisters, Dorothy Cadigan of Wilmington, Lorraine MacLellen of Spring Hill, Florida and June Gallagher of Omaha, Nebraska. He was the brother of the late Chester, James and Richard Bronsdon and the late Helen Shea and Mildred Grasso. He will be sadly missed by all.

There will be a Celebration of Life Mass on Monday, August 23 at 11 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Church, Revere. All are welcome to attend.

Robert Mangino

Of New Hampshire, formerly of Revere

Robert P. Mangino of Exeter, NH, formerly of Revere and East Boston, died peacefully surrounded by his family on August 13.

A US Army veteran, he was the beloved husband of Carol (Schultz) Mangino; devoted father of Robin (Arsenault) Domek and her husband Richard, John Arsenault, Charles Arsenault and wife, Michelle, Nancy (Arsenault) Appley and her husband, Michael, and Paul Arsenault and his wife, Julie. He was the loving son of the late Frank Sr. and Stella Mangino; dear brother of Frank Mangino and wife, Lena, and the late Paul Mangino; dear brother-in-law of Janis Franson and her husband, Arthur. He is also survived by 15 loving grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements were the Paul Buonfiglio & Sons-Bruno Funeral Home, Revere. Burial was in Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett. Memorial donations can be made to St. Jude’s Hospital (www.StJude.org) or the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org). For guestbook: www.buonfiglio.com.

Mary Ciampa

Of Peabody, formerly of East Boston

Mary R. (DeStefano) Ciampa of Peabody, formerly of East Boston, died on August 11.

She was the beloved wife of the late Enrico "Henry" Ciampa; loving mother of Ronald Ciampa and his wife, Joan, and Steven Ciampa and his wife, Mary, all of Peabody, Evelyn Celona of Melrose and the late Henry Ciampa and is also survived by nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was the dear sister of the late Lucy Ciampa, Clara Wohlman, Louise Quetel, Tino, Anthony, and John DeStefano.

Funeral arrangements were by Vazza’s "Beechwood" Funeral Home. Burial was in Puritan Lawn Cemetery, Peabody. For guest book, please visit: www.vazzafunerals.com.

Joseph Navarro Sr.

Melrose resident

Joseph L. Navarro Sr. of Melrose died on August 9.

He was a US Army veteran with 25 years service — Korea, Vietnam, Cold War and Peacetime.

He was the beloved husband of Roberta D. (McIntyre) Navarro with whom he shared 53 years of marriage; loving father of Joseph L. Jr. of Largo, Florida, Tracy Marie Walsh and her husband, Patrick, of Swampscott, Dana Rosemarie Freeman and her husband, Gary, of Ipswich, Nicole Ann Barrett and her husband, Frank, of W. Newbury and Paul W. Navarro of Revere; brother of Diane Glynn of California and is also survived by seven grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral arrangements were by the Norton Funeral Home, Malden Square. Donations in his memory may be made to Autismspeaks.org. For obit and guestbook visit www.nortonfuneral.com

Mary Congigliando

Revere resident

Mary F. Congigliando of Revere died on August 11.

The beloved daughter of the late Antonio and Angelina (Coppola) Congigliando, she was the dear sister of the late Ernest, Dominick "Dick," John "Quinny" and Yolanda "Babe" Congigliando; loving aunt of Ernest Congiliando and his wife, Shelia, of Pennsylvania and Margaret "Peggy" Power and her husband "Happy" of Wilmington. She is also survived by five grand nephews and grand nieces and numerous cousins.

Funeral arrangements were by the Paul Buonfiglio & Sons-Bruno Funeral Home, Revere. Burial was in Holy Cross Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to: Lighthouse Nursing Care Center, Patient Activity Fund, 204 Proctor Avenue, Revere, MA 02151. For guestbook, please visit: www.Buonfiglio.com.

Ann Pierni

Burlington resident

Ann A. Pierni of Burlington, formerly of Swampscott, died on August 10.

The beloved wife of Ernest V. Pierni, she was the devoted mother of Ellen Munick and her husband, Dana, Victor Pierni and his wife, Veronica, all of Andover; dear sister of Margaret DiGuilio, Robert Bisegna and the late Ela Riparandido, Dell Miller, Frank Bisegna, Lee Pesce, Reno and Charles Bisegna, Barbara Ribicanti and Mary Bowen. She is also survived by her loving grandchildren; Alex and Benjamin Munick, Vanessa, Teddy and Brian Pierni.

Funeral arrangements were by the Paul Buonfiglio & Sons – Bruno Funeral Home, Revere. Burial was in Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Assoc. 311 Arsenal St. Watertown, MA. 02472. For guestbook: www.buonfiglio.com.

Not fond of taxes?

Well, this weekend everyone can avoid paying taxes on several items during the state Sales Tax Holiday.

The holiday – passed last week by state government as part of the larger Economic Development Bill – will take place on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 14 and 15th. It exempts most items under $2,500 from the state’s 6.25 percent sales tax.

Already, retailers are pointing out that this holiday will be more lucrative than the last one, in 2008, because the sales tax rate has gone up from 5 percent to 6.25 percent.

“The last time we had a sales tax holiday, it was at 5 percent,” said Alan Belinfante of Revere’s Beach Sales. “Now, with 6.25 percent, that’s a big jump. That’s 20 percent more tax savings and I think people will act on that.”

Most larger retailers like Beach Sales have already started planning for the weekend, adding staff and increasing inventories.

“These sales tax holidays are important because businesses can grow their volume in a slow time and August is usually a slow retail month,” said Belinfante. “It gives business a chance to keep their employees working and working overtime…It just gives everybody a little bump.”

The Home Depot in Chelsea has already begun several adjustments.

“We’re preparing the store and making sure there will be enough staffing to take care of the customer demand,” said Maria Reyes, specialty assistant store manager. “The tax-free days always seem to be a big hit. We do have a lot of special buys coming in and a lot of promotions happening for the weekend.”

She indicated that the Chelsea store would be extending their hours on Saturday and Sunday, staying open until midnight both days.

Additionally, Beach Sales is also opening extended hours, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

At the Lowe’s in Saugus, that store will be offering a promotion of 10 percent off all Energy Star appliances in addition to the tax-free purchase.

“There is no better time for Massachusetts residents to purchase ENERGY STAR and WaterSense products,” said Michael Chenard, Lowe’s director of environmental affairs. “These products can significantly reduce energy and water consumption and decrease utility bills throughout the year for the homeowner.”

Just about every participating store agreed that customers would be hot for big-ticket items like televisions, clothes washers and refrigerators.

“I think it will be major appliances people have been holding off on and, again, large screen TVs will be hot,” said Belinfante.

“Large ticket items like appliances are a big item on tax-free day,” said Reyes. “We will be having a credit promotion for the customers that have a Home Depot card – 12 months with no interest and low payments.”

Though most items are tax-exempt, including the smallest of purchases, there are some exceptions.

The following do not qualify for the sales tax holiday exemption and remain subject to tax: all motor vehicles, motorboats, meals, telecommunications services, gas, steam, electricity, tobacco products and any single item whose price is in excess of $2,500.

Everyone was on edge.

Workers went up the stairs with file folders, and then came back down again.

Copies were made – apparently a lot of them.

Agents even met with some department heads.

It’s fair to say it was an anxious beginning of the week for several in City Hall.

Mayor Tom Ambrosino said he had heard that the Feds were in the building, but that they hadn’t visited him.

“They usually don’t alert me as to what they’re doing or when they’re coming,” said Mayor Ambrosino on Tuesday morning. “I’ve heard the same thing though, that they’re here…They haven’t met with me. I don’t think I’m under investigation. My life’s an open book.”

Meanwhile, though, FBI agents did visit the Inspectional Services Department on Monday, and they returned on Tuesday – according to Nick Catinazzo of the Inspectional Services Department.

Agents asked for specific building permits and they spent time speaking with Building Inspector Ben DeChristoforo Tuesday morning.

Catinazzo said the agents were accommodated, but he didn’t know what they were after.

“I don’t know what they were looking for,” said Catinazzo. “Two agents did come here and we accommodated all their requests. It’s anybody’s guess what they were after.”

The Journal even witnessed the two agents perusing files on Tuesday in the Building Department and visiting with members of that department.

Agents also, apparently, visited the Purchasing Agent, or at least procured several contracts from that department, according to a source.

Some postulated with anonymity that the situation could have been centered on transportation in the School Department.

Others, however, perhaps closer to the situation, said that the matter had to do with the recent Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Water Act settlement with the city, and the current sewer system investigations that are ongoing.

The source told the Journal – preferring to remain anonymous – that in the midst of investigating Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs) they have resurfaced the old and once-contentious illegal drainlaying issue.

The source said that they have discovered that some of those illegal drainlaying jobs have significantly contributed to current CSOs – especially in the St. Mary’s Church area.

“This is all being controlled by the Department of Justice and they’re looking at all this old stuff now,” said the source. “The effects of what they did back then are now being found out. What matters is when it’s found and not when it was done.”

Of course, none of that could be confirmed completely as the FBI does not comment on their ongoing investigations, or even on their occasional trips to City Hall.

Such visits are not new.

Last year at this time, FBI agents also visited the Building Department on one day and pulled the files on the old ITAM. Nothing apparently happened as a result of that visit.

Sometimes, a guitarist can communicate with the bass player without even speaking.

And some bonds can even span a musical break of three decades.

That’s the situation for one group of Revere guys who have formed the band Inclusion, and will be playing one of their first gigs in decades at this weekend’s Celebrate Revere Day on Revere Beach.

“We had a band for several years in high school called Crystal Meth – had a pretty good following – and then when we graduated it was like we flipped a switch and it was all over,” said Al Terminiello Jr., bass player for the band. “I sold my guitar and we never mentioned guitars or music ever again, even though we saw each other all the time. Then, 40 years later – on a whim – I brought it up.”

Terminiello said he began playing with life-long friend, guitarist Bobby Cappoccia.

“He asked me if I still played my guitar and I said I did,” said Cappoccia. “We decided to get together for old time’s sake. So, we started playing every now and then in my cellar just after Christmas last year. We had no intention of playing out.”

Added Terminiello, “This was supposed to be an occasional night out with the guys. That’s all.”

However, Revere’s Frank Tavano began playing with them, and then guitarist Vinnie Rizzo joined in.

They added Ernie Mattola on vocals and things started to click.

Then, recently, the original drummer from their high school days – Tony Aloisi – joined the growing musical group.

Whether they liked it or not, they were a band – and they began to get pretty good.

Then they decided to audition for one of four musical slots in this Saturday’s Celebrate Revere Day.

And they were granted the opportunity.

“It’s like a class reunion,” said Cappoccia. “It’s like a bunch of us got together for this reason. We’re all guys in our 50s and all graduated high school within three years of each other. We’re all from Revere and live in Revere. Most of all, we’re really having fun with this.”

Terminiello said that they mostly play Classic Rock cover tunes, including songs from the Rolling Stones, Jethro Tull, Credence Clearwater Revival, the Allman Brothers and Cream.

They will play 10-12 songs in their one-hour time slot.

“Now, we’re all looking forward to this thing at the Beach and we’ll go from there,” said Terminiello. “We had a lot of fun with it in high school and we’re having fun now. It’s amazing how it just kind of happened.”

Inclusion will be playing on Saturday, Aug. 14, at approximately 5 p.m.

The fundraiser is to benefit the Rumney Marsh Burial Ground Restoration Committee and organizers said it’s a first for the Beach.

“We wanted to have something that was a little more exciting than the usual fund-raiser we have,” said Nick Bua, member of the committee. “A lot of people are excited about this tournament and a number of people have called from East Boston and the North End and said they’d support our bocce.”

The event will last from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the game time at 1 p.m.

The location will be across from the State Police Barracks.

The Joy of Bocce Company, directed by Mario Pagnoni of Methuen, is running the tournament.

He is the author of one of the most thorough books ever written on bocce, called ‘The Joy of Bocce.’

Registration for the tournament is $50 per person or $200 for a team. The fee includes the competition, awards and lunch under the tent.

Bua said special recognition went to Committee Member Lona Frongillo for coordinating and setting up the event.

He also said that they have accomplished a lot in three years.

“We plan fund-raisers and we can only chip away at this a little bit at a time,” said Bua. “In three years, we’ve done very well and we’re very happy with the success we’ve had in a short period of time.”

Improvements include a huge tree trimming project, restoration of the canon ball display, a new granite historical marker, fence and gate repairs and a new flagpole.

There is the chance the legislation could come back to full blown life if the legislature is brought back into session, and soon.

That is a possibility because the state is set to receive $675 million in federal funding that would require the legislature to assign how it is spent.

The governor has artfully struck from that bill awarding the money the ability of the legislature to spend the money.

Obviously, both houses will want to come back, and soon, to override the governor’s action – so they can spend the money and be credited for it rather than him.

So now its up to the legislature to either commit political suicide by not coming back into session or to come back into session and while they’re at it, to once again take-up the gaming bill and to pass it.

Whether or not this scenario plays out is anyone’s guess.

One of the great oddities in this continuing story is that as the expanded gambling looked more dead than ever, more and more people close to the issue came to believe it might ultimately be passed in the end.

The owners of Suffolk Downs, who are the de facto owners of Wonderland, are holding off on layoffs or closures or radical changes in their business model – for the moment.

The owners of Suffolk Downs would like to bid on a casino license only.

Suffolk Downs is not interested in slots.

Slots are the rub.

Wonderland, owned by Suffolk Downs, is not interested in slots, either.

What has been proven by this up and down process?

That doing business with government – or with government trying to do business – it is a long and involved process that features personalities more than business expertise.

In the end, such a long and convoluted process has led to the ultimate impasse, with the legislature stalled, with the governor stalled, with the interests of private businesspeople willing to invest as much as $1 billion, stalled.

Whether or not the expanded gaming bill lives or dies now rests on politicians coming together or remaining at odds.

If it fails, and it might, there will be no torchlight parades with tens of thousands converging at the gates to the state house all chanting for casinos and slots.

It is not the kind of issue that inspires people that way.

If the bill passes, it will be a shot in the arm to the local economy of epic proportion if Suffolk Downs was granted a casino license.

Without this economic stimulus, we wonder rightfully, what might fill the gap?

Frankly, we are left to wonder about that.