By Cary Shuman

The City Council will invite representatives from Encore Boston Harbor to its next meeting to discuss some questions relating to the world-class resort/casino and Encore’s “lack of communications” with the 11-member board.

The Council’s request for an in-person meeting with Encore officials came as councillors were reviewing “a petition requesting the renewal of an innholder’s license for Encore Boston Harbor, [located at] 1 Broadway.”

In introducing a suggestion to refer the matter to government operations or community development subcommittees, Ward 2 Councilor Stephanie Martins said, “We just haven’t had updates from them for a while, and it used to be that any time we asked a question, the administration would just make it disappear.”

Councilor-at-Large Katy Rogers said, “I also have questions. So would it be feasible to put an item on the agenda to invite them [Encore] for clarification questions and a general status update?”

Ward 6 Councilor Peter Pietrantonio took the discussion to a whole new level when he asked rhetorically, “This is a [license] renewal and they’re doing something that we don’t like – we can shut them down?”

“We’ve got questions. My colleagues have got questions. They [Encore] should come up here and answer the questions. If not, I’m saying, ‘let’s not renew it.”

Councilor-at-Large Wayne Matewsky, who at a recent meeting asked for Las Vegas-style shows at Encore, complained that “there’s no communications with this casino, and there never has been.”

“This is a multi-billion dollar place, and there’s no savoir-faire here,” continued Matewsky. “I’ve never seen a company like this. When I was state representative, I went to every hearing, there must’ve been ten of them. There’s no communication. Maybe I’m missing something here. I just want to be proud of this casino.”

Matewsky did praise the resort/casino itself, calling Encore “a beautiful structure with some great restaurants.”

Encore Boston Harbor, which opened in June of 2019 on the old Monsanto site, gives visitors a true Las Vegas experience. The hotel rooms are five-star magnificent, while the gaming tables, sportsbook, and Poker Room make you feel as if you are in The Entertainment Capital of the World. The dealers are genial and professional, and there are plenty of extra betting options at the tables, including one where you can win hundreds of thousands on a single lucky hand in Blackjack. Encore also generates more than $30 million annually for the city.

But Matewsky and his colleagues want an open line of communications with Encore officials.

Ward 4 Councilor Holly Garcia made a motion to “invite representatives from Encore to come up and answer questions.”

Martins seconded the motion, stating, “I think this a great time where we actually have leverage to really give them an opportunity for some accountability, partnership, and better communication.”

Council President Stephanie Smith conducted a voice vote, and the result was unanimous in favor of scheduling a meeting with Encore officials.

Special to the Independent

The Massachusetts House of Representatives has passed its Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) state budget, a $63.4 billion spending plan that delivers major investments in education, transportation, health care, housing, and local communities across the Commonwealth.

As part of the House budget process, State Representative Judith Garcia secured targeted investments for Chelsea and Everett focused on public safety, educational opportunity, economic support, and critical community services.

Representative Garcia secured funding for:

• The Chelsea Senior Center to expand food delivery services for older adults

• The Chelsea Resiliency Fund to continue supporting families facing financial hardship

• The development of a new fire station in Chelsea

• The Chelsea Chamber of Commerce to support local small businesses

• Multiple community-based organizations serving Chelsea and Everett residents

“This budget delivers meaningful investments for Chelsea and Everett and strengthens the organizations and services our residents rely on every day,” said Representative Judith Garcia. “From supporting seniors and working families to investing in public safety and small businesses, these funds will make a direct impact in our communities. I’m grateful to Speaker Mariano and Chair Michlewitz for their leadership and partnership throughout the budget process.”

Representative Garcia also secured the restoration of funding for Advanced Placement (AP) programs at $2,250,320 after raising concerns about the impact cuts would have on students pursuing rigorous academic coursework.

“Students enrolling in AP courses are demonstrating serious academic commitment,” Garcia said. “We should be supporting students who are motivated to challenge themselves academically and preparing for success beyond high school. Advanced Placement programs create real opportunities for students, and maintaining this funding is an important investment in their future.”

In another major budget achievement, Representative Garcia worked in collaboration with House Chair Dan Cahill to establish a new $10 million reserve to support school districts experiencing unexpected declines in English learner enrollment.

The reserve was created to help municipalities and school districts manage financial challenges caused by shifting enrollment patterns that are largely outside of local control, including in gateway cities such as Chelsea and Everett.

“Our school districts, superintendents, municipal leaders, and local officials are working hard every day to manage a very difficult fiscal landscape,” Garcia said. “This reserve provides communities with important short-term stability while they adapt to enrollment changes and continue delivering for students.”

The FY27 House budget also includes nearly $10 billion in local aid for cities and towns, including:

• $7.65 billion in Chapter 70 education funding

• $1.33 billion in Unrestricted General Government Aid

• Full funding for the final year of the Student Opportunity Act

• An increase in minimum per-pupil school aid to $160

The budget also invests:

• $1.7 billion in education initiatives, including free school meals and child care programs

• $975 million in transportation investments, including $470 million for the MBTA

• $1.86 billion for early education and care

• More than $22 billion for MassHealth and health and human services programs The budget passed the House of Representatives 149–9 and now moves to the Senate for consideration

Special to the Independent

Everett High seniors Danica Pham and Jonatan Vasquez Trochez have been awarded Jon H. Poteat Scholarships from the National Technical Honor Society (NTHS), a testament to their meaningful contributions to Everett High School’s Class of 2026.

“Danica and Jonatan consistently exemplify the seven attributes of the NTHS — Skill, Honesty, Service, Responsibility, Scholarship, Citizenship, and Leadership,” said Superintendent of Schools William D. Hart. “We congratulate these excellent students and their families and thank the NTSH for helping them in the next step of their academic journeys.”

Danica is a Marketing CTE student with a 4.4 grade-point average (GPA). She consistently demonstrates leadership, professionalism, and a strong commitment to academics and the EHS community — as evidenced by her participation in several teams, clubs, and organization. Danica will attend Babson College to study business law and sports management.

Jonatan is a Hospitality Management student with a 4.2 GPA. He is a dedicated and hardworking leader within his program, consistently serving as a positive role model for his peers. Jonatan is headed to the University of Massachusetts Lowell, where he plans to study mechanical engineering.

Jon H. Poteat Scholarships ($1,000 each) honor the achievements of top Career and Technical Education (CTE) students who are NTHS members and plan to pursue professional certification and/or advanced degrees.

“Danica and Jonatan have made an incredible impact on their respective CTE programs through their leadership, work ethic, and commitment to excellence,” said EHS Director of Career and Technical Education Siobhan Araya. “I am so proud of the contributions they have made both inside and outside of the classroom. Their dedication to their academics, their peers, and their future goals truly embodies what Career and Technical Education is all about.”

Since 1984, NTHS has been the honor society for Career and Technical Education (CTE), serving high schools, career centers, community and technical colleges, and universities. Recognizing over 68,000 new members annually, NTHS exists to advocate for and empower all students to pursue the technical and academic skills needed to build their careers and a skilled global workforce. In partnership with student leadership organizations and industry partners, NTHS has awarded over $4 million in scholarships.

Parlin Adult and Teens

Parlin Book Group, Parlin Meeting Room, and Zoom. Monday, May 18th at 6pm. 18+. Discuss Stephen Puleo’s The Great Abolitionist!

Gaming Club Parlin YA Room. Tuesdays and Thursdays at 3pm. Join us for board games and video games at the library! Bring your own or play what we have here. For ages 12 and up.

Yarn Club Parlin Fresco Room. Tuesdays at 7pm. Come chit chat and stitch! Bring your crocheting, knitting, or any other yarn craft and sit and socialize with other members of the crafting community. Recommended for ages 14-109!

Parlin Childrens

Lego Club. Parlin Children’s Room. Mondays from 3-5pm. Come to the Children’s Room after school on Mondays for some free-building lego fun. Open to all ages. Children under 6 years old must be accompanied by an adult. No registration required.

Storytime and Singalong with Karen, Parlin Children’s Room. Wednesdays at 11am. Join us for a fun-filled morning of singing and storytelling with Karen! Suggested ages 0-6.

Creative Drama Class. Parlin Children’s Room. Wednesdays at 3pm. Do you have a drama queen or king at home? Drama Class in the Parlin Children’s Department is the perfect opportunity for your child to put those acting skills to use with our drama coach! Suggested ages 6-14.

Story Time Adventures with Mrs. McAuliffe Parlin Craft Room. Fridays at 11am. Join Mrs. McAuliffe for our enchanting Story Time! You will be whisked away on magical adventures through the pages of your favorite books. Bring a friend or make a new one in our circle of friends.

Friday Family Movie Night! Parlin Meeting Room. Friday, May 22nd at 3 pm. Break out the popcorn! Come and watch a movie with your friends and family. Free, fresh Popcorn will be served.

Origami Club. Parlin Children’s Room. Saturday, May 23rd at 12pm. Learn how to fold paper animals of all kinds! Open to all ages and abilities. Paper and instruction will be provided.

Shute Adult and Teens

Ready Player One Games, Shute Meeting Room, Wednesdays at 2:30 PM. Level up your Wednesdays with our ultimate gaming hangout! Grab your friends and dive into fun Nintendo Switch and PlayStation games whether you’re racing, battling, or teaming up for co-op fun, there’s something for everyone. No registration required. Recommended for ages 11 and up. This program will run every Wednesday from 2:30 to 4:30 PM unless otherwise noted on our online calendar.

Shute Children’s

Storytime at the Shute Shute Children’s Room. Mondays at 10 AM and Tuesdays at 12 PM. What’s better than a good story? Sharing it with friends! Join Miss Val at the Shute Library for Fairytale Fun!

For Better or Verse – Poetry Club Shute Memorial Library Meeting Room. Every other Tuesday from 5 PM – 6:30 PM. Maybe you love poetry; maybe you’re just curious about it. Maybe you’re looking for a creative outlet and want to meet some other creative people. Whatever your reason, and whatever your knowledge or skill level, come join the Shute Memorial Library’s Poetry Club, “For Better or Verse.” Read, write, and share poetry, and create some fun art projects that might inspire poetry. Recommended for Ages 9-13.

Master Builders: Lego Free-play: Shute Children’s Room. Thursdays from 3-5PM. Free-play session with Legos and other building blocks. Bring a buddy, or make a new one, as you explore your imagination brick by brick! We provide the space and the materials to let your vision take shape. What will you create?

Sherlock Holmes Day: Scavenger Hunt Friday May 22nd, Shute Children’s room. It is Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Birthday. To celebrate, we’ll use all of the skills of his most famous character, Sherlock Holmes, to solve a mystery by tracking down clues in the library. Stop by the Shute Children’s Desk for your first clue. Disguises are welcome. Children under 6 must be accompanied by an adult.

Everett Public Library hosts  a journey through music June 24

On Wednesday, June 24, Jon and Li Waterman will perform “A Journey through the Roots of American Popular Music” at Everett Public Library at 410 Broadway, in Everett at 7 p.m. The program consists of original songs and history, and explores some of the fascinating characters and events at the roots of the blues, country, rock and other genres of American popular music.

The program is supported in part by a grant from the Everett Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

Special to the Independent

Rep. Joe McGonagle joined Mayor Robert Van Campen, Superintendent William Hart and Interim Assistant Superintendent of Finance/ former Webster School Principal Chris Barrett to present Webster School Principal Devon Abruzzese and her team a House Resolution in honor of their being named a 2025 ESEA Distinguished School.  The resolution, adopted by the House of Representatives in session, recognizes the honor received by the school for their achievements in education, including their success with English Language Learners.

“I am beyond proud of all our schools in Everett but particularly the Webster School for their awesome achievement,” said McGonagle. “Principal Abruzzese and her team do a fantastic job educating all our students, but especially those who may require more time and attention. It was an honor to join them in celebrating this incredible feat.”

The Webster School received this national recognition in the category of “shows excellence in serving special populations of students.” The Webster School has approximately 351 students of which 72% speak a language other than English at home and 48% are English language learners. Their curriculum and model support English language learners through integrated skills across the core content areas in different spaces of the classroom and school environment.

“The City of Everett is incredibly proud of the Webster School for earning national recognition as a 2025 ESEA Distinguished School,” said Mayor Van Campen. “In a community where nearly half of our students are English Language Learners, this award highlights the excellence and dedication of our staff, families, and the Everett School Committee. We congratulate Principal Abruzzese, Superintendent Hart, and the entire Webster community for ensuring that every student in Everett, regardless of the language they speak at home, has the opportunity to achieve greatness.”

“My thanks to Rep. McGonagle for formally recognizing this prestigious honor with a State House citation and making it an official part of the Commonwealth’s history,” said Superintendent William D. Hart. “Thanks, as well, to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for nominating the Webster School for a Distinguished School honor in recognition of the tremendous work they are doing to boost student achievement.”

with equal protection and due process initiatives filed by Senator Edwards

Special to the Independent

Senator Lydia Edwards joined her colleagues in the Massachusetts Senate to pass An Act Promoting Rule of Law, Oversight, Trust, and Equal Constitutional Treatment — the PROTECT Act (S.3072) — landmark legislation designed to safeguard and support immigrant communities across the Commonwealth.

The PROTECT Act reaffirms Massachusetts’ commitment to being a safer, more just, and welcoming place for all. At a time when heightened federal immigration enforcement has fueled fear and division, this legislation ensures that residents can access courthouses without intimidation—so they may participate in legal proceedings, assert their rights, and seek justice.

The Act would enact several protective measures – from enhancing privacy legislation to strengthening law enforcement protections – including:

• Guarding residents from civil rights violations.

• Enhancing protections at sensitive locations, such as schools, hospitals, houses of worship, childcare centers, and state courthouses.

• Prohibiting new 287(g) agreements.

• Permitting pre-arrangement of guardianship.

• Prohibiting state and municipal participation in immigration enforcement.

• Preserving authority to investigate and prosecute crime.

• Supporting victims of crimes.

• Protecting public employees from baseless federal probes.

• Blocking unauthorized deployment of other state’ National Guards in Massachusetts.

Also embedded in the PROTECT Act are several initiatives filed by Senator Edwards centering due process and ensuring efforts to support immigrants and immigrant communities continue including:

Protecting courthouses by expanding the definition of a “courthouse” to include not just the building itself, but also the surrounding area, which may cover nearby walkways, driveways, alleys, sidewalks, parking areas, and any connected paths.

Establishing a statewide immigration commission to study and address immigration issues in Massachusetts. The commission would include members appointed by state officials, legal organizations, and advocacy groups, and would be co-chaired by appointees from legislative leadership.

“I’m proud to advance stronger protections for immigrants in Massachusetts—neighbors who are too often underrepresented, yet essential to the strength and vitality of our Commonwealth,” said Senator Edwards. Immigrants are foundational to our economy, powering industries across the state and sustaining the businesses and services that benefit all of us. I want to thank Senate President Spilka, Chairman Rodrigues, and my fellow Black and Latino Caucus members for moving this forward with urgency and purpose.”

“This work has been years in the making, and it will not stop here.”

To read the PROTECT Act, visit https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S3072.

Special to the Independent

One year ago this week, a historic provision championed by State Senator Lydia Edwards went into effect as part of the Affordable Homes Act – fundamentally changing the trajectory of thousands of Massachusetts residents by granting the right to petition courts to seal certain eviction records.

In its first year alone, 6,284 petitions to seal eviction records have been filed across the Commonwealth, underscoring both the urgent need for this reform and its immediate, tangible impact.

“I believe in second chances, “ said Senator Lydia Edwards. “For too long, eviction records – often stemming from circumstances beyond a tenant’s control – have locked families out of housing and opportunity. Today, thousands of Massachusetts residents have a pathway forward. I want to thank Attorney General Campbell, Governor Healey, Senate President Spilka, The Executive Office of Housing and Liveable Communities, Leader Michael Moran, and the countless advocates who realized the urgency in this issue and acted on it accordingly a year ago today.”

The law protects an array of circumstances including fault-based and no fault evictions, each with specific parameters dictating the process and regulations. When applying for new housing, the tenant may legally state that they have “no record” of a prior eviction.

To aid constituents in utilizing the provision, Senator Edwards has held three successful “Supper and Sealing” workshops, community-based events dedicated to connecting residents with legal professionals to expedite the sealing process for both eviction records and CORIs (criminal records).

Advocates and partners like Greater Boston Legal Services, North Suffolk Community Services, Maverick Landing Community Services, Big Hope Project, Harvard Law School Legal Services Center and Massachusetts Law Reform Institute have made this possible.

Additionally, the Legal Information & Technology Lab at Suffolk University Law School has played a critical role in expanding access. By developing an online petition tool, the Lab has made it possible for residents to begin the sealing process directly from their smartphones—eliminating barriers such as transportation, time off work, and court navigation.

The success of eviction sealing in Massachusetts demonstrates what is possible when policy centers equity and lived experience. This reform represents a meaningful step toward a more just and accessible housing market.

Quotes of Support

“Our Affordable Homes Act is about making it easier and more affordable for people to find housing,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Eviction sealing is a crucial part of that. No one should face huge barriers to getting housing because of a hardship they faced long ago. I’m grateful to Senator Edwards and the Legislature for their partnership on this important policy which is already making a difference for thousands of Massachusetts residents.”

“HLC recently concluded a statewide fair housing listening tour to hear directly from residents about how our new fair housing office can better serve their needs. In every region, we heard from people who have been denied housing opportunities because of decades-old eviction records and discrimination,” said Juana Matias, Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities (HLC). “Eviction record discrimination remains a significant barrier to housing stability. But one year into eviction record sealing, we are better positioned to support residents in crisis, connect them to resources, and help more families remain stably housed in Massachusetts.”

“One year ago, Massachusetts took a bold step toward fairness and opportunity with the passage of the Eviction Sealing Law – a milestone that has already opened doors for countless families and residents to secure stable housing and rebuild their financial futures,” said Attorney General Andrea Campbell. “This law is a lifeline that helps break cycles of instability and restores dignity to those too often shut out of the housing market. Thank you to Senator Edwards and Leader Mike Moran for their unwavering advocacy and leadership on this important issue, and to Senate President Spilka and Speaker Mariano for their commitment to this legislation, which ensured that it became law.”

“The Senate prioritized this policy because we know that one difficult chapter in our lives does not define who we are,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “Now, as nearly 5,000 people have submitted petitions under this policy, it is clear that passing this measure was the right thing to do—and that it is changing lives for the better. I applaud Senator Edwards, whose steadfast leadership and moral clarity were instrumental in bringing this reform to fruition. Her work reflects the very best of what we strive to achieve in the Senate, advancing policies that expand opportunity, restore dignity, and change lives.”

“Senator Edwards’ steadfast leadership was instrumental in getting the eviction record sealing law passed,” said Tyler White, Massachusetts Law Reform Institute. “In the year since it took effect, the law has empowered thousands of tenants to start fresh in their search for new housing—and countless others will benefit in the years to come. The spirit of the law is simple: tenants should not be perpetually disadvantaged and made to suffer lifelong consequences as a result of their eviction records. We look forward to continuing our work with Senator Edwards to advance housing justice in Massachusetts.”

On May 7, the Parlin Memorial Library hosted the Awards Ceremony for this years’ contest, in which the three finalists from each of the three categories – youth, teen, and adult – were invited to recite their poems for the judges. The judging panel was composed of library staff, including the Parlin and Shute Children’s Librarians, Kristin McAuliffe and Valerie Terenzi respectively, Head of Circulation, Victoria Iannuzzi, and Library Director, Kevin Sheehan.

“We were so pleased with the turnout for the contest, this being only the second year of resurrecting this annual tradition,” states Iannuzzi. The poetry contest has been a longstanding yearly competition hosted by the Everett Public Libraries, but was on hiatus for a few years as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. “This year we decided to inspire our poets with a theme,” added Sheehan. He elaborated that “we wanted the community to ruminate on the 250th anniversary of our nation, so we provided the theme ‘250 Years of Independence’ as a suggestion to our local poets.”

The evening was filled with thoughtful expression, which the crowd of onlooking parents, friends, and fellow poets took in with heartfelt tears of joy. With compelling messages and vivid lyricism, the finalists offered unique perspectives on the last 250 years of American history. After much deliberation, the judges concluded that the winners of the contest were Arielle Louis (youth category), Lee Walsh (teen category), and Paige Anderson (adult category).

This year’s contest was generously sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Everett, who provided cash prizes for the winners at the conclusion of the ceremony. The Everett Public Libraries would like to offer a special thanks to the Kiwanis Club for their support of this contest and for providing the refreshments for the evening; it is community advocates like the Kiwanis Club of Everett that allow for wonderful celebrations of artistic merit such as the Poetry Contest to continue to be a yearly tradition.

Please read below for the winning entries for each category of the competition:

Dawn of Independence

By Arielle Louis

(Youth Category Winner)

Independence

It is not gained by sitting around waiting. It doesn’t come easily.

Independence must be earned; it is both giving and taking. Lives lost, and hearts swallow

in sorrow on the day we earned independence.

250 years have passed, wow! It is amazing what people did for independence. So let us think, is independence just a word, or part of America?

——-

Lord, Let America be America Once Again

By Lee Walsh

(Teen Category Winner)

I am American dreaming of the star spangled banners soaring in the sweltering heat of early July.

I am singing Bruce Springsteen, lighting the grill, and I am praying.

Lord, let America be America once again.

Let the immigrants gaze upon lady liberty with hopeful eyes and hungry hearts.

Let the mother’s prayers be answered, and return our soldiers safely to our homeland.

I am American dreaming of prosperity, community and freedom. I am singing “this land is your land”, extending my hand, and praying.

Lord let America be America once again.

Let us crack open a cold one with the ones we love most.

Let the war end, and the fireworks fly.

Let the tables be overflowing with food, let no one go hungry.

Paul’s midnight ride helped win us our freedom, and tonight we shall enjoy it.

Lord, let us be free to love.

Let us be free to enjoy all of these little liberties.

250 years of freedom

lord let us see 250 more!

——-

Association

By Paige Anderson

 (Adult Category Winner)

The grains of sand stilled around the New Haven Harbor

As African men, women, and children cried over their forced departure.

The ripplets of water washed across the Ann Lee Pond

As the Shakers announced that man and woman are equal under God.

The stones stampeded down Blair Mountain

As coal miners fought for their rights by the thousands.

The branches broke under the weight of the Chicago snow

As the police dealt the Black Panthers the final blow.

The tufts of grass glowed on Sandhills

As Standing Rock protestors stood in the way of the drills.