35:24The commission’s decision to revoke Antonio’s licenses stemmed from a series of unresolved issues, primarily revolving around the unauthorized transfer of the license since 2019 and repeated failures to submit necessary documentation. Fernando Loisa, representing Antonio’s, acknowledged the difficulties in securing a certificate of good standing due to outstanding debts to the Department of Revenue. Despite engaging a new lawyer to address these challenges, Loisa faced skepticism from the commission regarding the effectiveness of these efforts.

28:20Loisa’s testimony revealed his emotional connection to Antonio’s, where he has been involved for several years. He described feeling “drained” by recent events but expressed a desire to remain in the hospitality industry. He emphasized the personal significance of the restaurant. However, he acknowledged the difficulties of recent months, including a chaotic incident involving music at the restaurant while he was attending to a personal emergency.

Despite the emotional ties, the commission highlighted the necessity of adhering to statutory obligations, including operating with an approved license manager, a requirement under Massachusetts law. Loisa was informed of this obligation but failed to comply, contributing to the decision to revoke the licenses. The commission emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the licensing process and made it clear that the revocation would be immediate, prohibiting the transfer of the existing license to any future business ventures Loisa might pursue.

17:30In addition to Antonio’s, the meeting addressed a continued hearing involving MFRP Corp, operating as The Squire, which faced scrutiny for previous failures to provide adequate security resulting in multiple patron attacks. Peter Depa, representing The Squire, outlined measures taken to improve security, including the installation of AI technology with thermal cameras in the parking lot, which he claimed could reduce crime by 60%. This system alerts individuals of their presence on camera and facilitates the removal of trespassers. Additional security personnel and new cameras were also added to enhance safety.

The commission expressed appreciation for these measures but stressed the need for a formal security plan outlining closing procedures and the number of security personnel during peak times. They sought clarification on implementing these new measures and decided to continue the hearing to May, allowing The Squire to provide a written security plan. An update regarding an outstanding balance owed to the Revere Police Department was also requested, with Depa acknowledging that business improvements during the summer might facilitate repayment.

10:28Another topic of the meeting was an application for a one-day license by the Revere Chamber of Commerce for a cornhole tournament at Susan B. Anthony Field on June 21, 2025. The commission approved the application, with stipulations for entertainment limited to speakers and possibly a DJ, considering the residential nature of the area. The expected attendance was between 50 to 100 people, and organizers were advised to manage noise levels appropriately.

01:05Additionally, the commission addressed an application from Rice Passions World Corp for the transfer of an all-alcohol restaurant license. The business, located on Squire Road, will be taken over by the owners of the adjacent establishment, Kepa. The commission approved the transfer, with no changes to operations, menu, employees, or layout. The requested hours of operation were from Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Tuesday to Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., with a seating capacity of 50 and entertainment options including widescreen cable TV and radio.

04:21The meeting also included a discussion on a one-day change of hours application from 388 Broadway LLC for an Easter breakfast event. Furthermore, the commission approved a change of manager at the Staybridge Suites Holiday Inn Express, with Cynthia Basic, possessing over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, taking over the role.