[0:01:36] Turn 55 to... That's all. I didn't see that all.
[0:01:54] [inaudible] I'll call her.
[0:02:26] She's not picking up. I'm not getting an answer.
[0:02:40] Go again.
[0:02:51] Recording in progress. Good morning.
[0:02:57] I'm Anthony Vigliotti. I'll be chairing today's meeting of the Worcester License Commission, November 5th, 2026. And just a few brief announcements before we proceed with the formal hearing.
[0:03:12] Today's meeting is a hybrid meeting, which means it is both in person and you can access it online. We ask folks that are online to please mute their computers by hitting *6 and unmute it by hitting *6 once again. It's a public meeting. It means it's both being recorded, minutes will be taken and published at a later date. We ask all speakers participating to please use the microphone that you are here. If you are online, please speak clearly into the microphone so we can hear you. Please state your name, where you live and then address the application that is before the License Commission. Several items on the agenda may be postponed or continued. I'll read those as we go through the agenda. It is your responsibility to make sure that you follow through on the continuance of that particular item. The conduct of the meeting is as follows: petition is called, petitioner will make initial presentation. Board will make comments. Members of the public, both present and online, will have the ability to ask questions and make comments. And any other persons that may have an interest will be asking. If applied for a regular liquor license today, it'll be uploaded to the Alcohol Beverage Control Commission within 48 hours. Application will be assigned to a state investigator who will review, will question and have questions with you. It generally takes 4 to 6 weeks. In the meantime, the responsibility is yours to make sure you have all of your building, code and health permits.
[0:04:51] With that, I call to order the meeting of the License Commission for November 5th, 2026. Motion to approve the minutes of October 22nd, 2026.
[0:05:03] Second.
[0:05:04] Commissioner Cruz? No, she's not here. She's not here. Commissioner Fisher?
[0:05:07] Yes.
[0:05:08] Chair Vigliotti?
[0:05:08] Yes. First item on the agenda, one-day liquor entertainment request, Ashland Brewing LLC Worcester Holiday Market 211 Commercial Street, Mercantile Building, request for one-day liquor license for Thursday, November 19th, 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., Friday, November 20th, noon to 6:00 p.m., Saturday, November 21st, noon to 6:00 p.m., Sunday, November 22nd, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Thursday, December 3rd, 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, December 4th, noon to 6:00 p.m., Saturday, December 5th, noon to 6:00 p.m., and Sunday, December 6th, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Anyone present or online to address this application?
[0:05:59] Yes, sir. John Maldon.
[0:06:01] Good morning. Where do you live? Yeah, good morning, John. Where do you live?
[0:06:02] How are you?
[0:06:04] I live in Berlin, Berlin, Mass. Just right down the road.
[0:06:06] Okay. Please, tell us about this application.
[0:06:09] Say that one more time?
[0:06:10] Please, tell us about this application.
[0:06:12] Sure. So, we operate uh Clover Road Brewing Company out of Hudson and Ashland. Uh we're working with the folks putting on the Worcester Holiday Market on the dates that you've described. Uh we'll be there pouring, serving beer, wine and cider uh, which we produce ourselves. Uh And we have a lot of experience doing this over the course of the last four years. Uh this will be the, well, hopefully, the biggest event that we've done. But we've worked with other organizations on things like this in the past. Probably most notably would be the American Heritage Museum in uh I think it's actually in Hudson.
[0:06:49] Okay. How many people are-
[0:06:49] This is Boston Wine.
[0:06:51] Yeah, how many people are you expecting? [cough] Excuse me.
[0:06:55] Yeah. I think they're expecting a rolling uh 75 to 100 during the hours. Um That was what I was told. Uh and so, we'll have a staff of two on during that period.
[0:07:07] Okay. Anything else you'd like to say?
[0:07:10] Don't think so. Miss anything?
[0:07:11] All right. Thank you. Commissioner Fisher?
[0:07:14] No questions.
[0:07:15] Is there anyone present or online that have any questions or comments?
[0:07:20] Uh through the chair, the commissioner and several of the staff viewed the site on Monday. Uh we are looking into an issue because they want to have the Porta Potties inside. We're not sure if that's going to happen. So, we're still investigating that portion of the application.
[0:07:37] So, is it [cough] is there a necessity that they have to have Porta Potties available?
[0:07:42] Through the chair, yes.
[0:07:44] Did you hear that, sir? They're saying that you need to have some Porta Potties available for folks that will be attending your event.
[0:07:46] I did.
[0:07:54] Yes, yeah. Uh so, to be clear, the uh event is being put on uh by a separate group. And we are one of the vendors for the event. So, they have expecting like 100 separate vendors of which were the only alcohol provider. So, that, I believe, would be the responsibility of the folks putting it on.
[0:08:16] Well, I I don't I don't want to pass the buck over here, but we've got to get a resolution as to who's going to provide the Porta Potties.
[0:08:24] Through the chair, we can talk to the event coordinator. We just wanted the applicant to know that is a concern.
[0:08:30] Okay.
[0:08:31] Yeah. Yeah. So, they didn't tell me that um so that's the first I've heard of it.
[0:08:35] All right. Are there any further questions or comments? Hearing none, I make a motion to approve subject to the vendors making available Porta Potties for the general public attending the event.
[0:08:50] Second.
[0:08:51] Commissioner Fisher?
[0:08:52] Yes.
[0:08:52] Chair Vigliotti?
[0:08:53] Yes. Thank you. Enjoy the event.
[0:08:56] [cough] Thank you, folks. Appreciate you.
[0:08:58] Number two on the agenda, Festival of Lights, Worcester Common, request for one-day entertainment license for live music, dancing by entertainers, amplification, roving LED and fire performers, Friday, December 4th, 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Anyone present or online to address this application?
[0:09:19] Good morning. Uh I'm here.
[0:09:20] Good morning.
[0:09:24] I'm sorry. You are and where do you live?
[0:09:26] Uh I'm Victoria Mariano and I'm in Spencer, Massachusetts. And I'm representing uh the city's Cultural Development Department for this application.
[0:09:35] Okay. Please tell us about this event.
[0:09:37] Sure. Uh so, this is the City of Worcester's Annual Festival of Lights. There's live music up on the stairs on a stage. There's um food trucks on Front Street. There's bounce houses on Franklin Street. And then uh the there's a beer garden um contained in its own tent uh on the grass. And then there's um different roving performers. And the fire performers are uh cordoned off.
[0:10:05] Okay. Um through Deb, I see the this is for entertainment license. I don't see anything about a beer garden.
[0:10:14] Through the chair, that's a separate one. That's the next item.
[0:10:17] All right. Okay. Could I ask you about the fire performance? Could you explain that to this commission about fire performance, please?
[0:10:25] Yeah, sure. Um they've been doing it every year for the last probably over a decade. Uh they have fire uh fighters on site. They have a they like fence off the whole area. And they have they all have their own licenses and insurance. Um they're a professional uh fire team.
[0:10:44] Yeah. Laura, Ms. Martin, [laughter] can you No questions on the fire Okay. Is there anyone present or online that has any questions or comments? Hearing none, motion to approve.
[0:10:58] Second.
[0:10:59] Commissioner Fisher?
[0:10:59] Yes.
[0:11:00] Chair Vigliotti?
[0:11:01] Yes. My apologies earlier, I should have introduced the folks that are here. To my left is Commissioner Sharon Fisher. Far to my left, representing the Worcester Law Department is attorney Amanda Marian, Worcester Police Department, Sergeant Thomas Needham and officer Patrick Harrington, and from the Worcester Fire Department, uh Laura Martin. And behind me uh Deborah Steele from the Office of Inspectional Services. Number three on the agenda, City of Worcester Festival of Lights, request for one-day liquor license, Friday, December 4th from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Are you still there? You represent Please come to the microphone, sir. Please identify yourself and where you live.
[0:11:45] Good morning. My name's Eric Godin. I live in Worcester.
[0:11:47] Good morning.
[0:11:49] Good morning.
[0:11:49] Please tell us about the request for the liquor license.
[0:11:53] Yeah. So, we are uh a brewing company ourselves, uh Double Down Brewing Company on Park Ave. And uh we're going to be the sole uh beer distributor there. We'll be selling just our beer, two different types of beer in cans.
[0:12:08] In a previous um response that we had, they talked about a beer garden. Tell me how that is going to be operated, please.
[0:12:15] Uh so, there will be somebody checking the IDs, maintaining that everybody is of age with uh we all have uh certificates uh being able to serve alcohol. Um
[0:12:27] Are you using a bracelet system to identify?
[0:12:30] Yeah, we'll we will I believe that they have to stay in the tent while they have their beverages.
[0:12:36] A- And my question is on identification. How are you doing that?
[0:12:40] Uh just with their visual ID, yeah.
[0:12:44] And are you are you, once you serve, are you giving them a bracelet to make sure you've got the right person?
[0:12:49] Correct.
[0:12:51] Okay. Commissioner Fisher?
[0:12:52] No questions.
[0:12:53] Sergeant Needham?
[0:12:54] So uh just echoing uh Commissioner Vigliotti, you plan on using a uh wristband system to designate who is of age to uh be inside the beer garden. And how is the beer garden being delineated? Are you using stanchions, ropes? What How are you How are you marking the area?
[0:13:08] Uh it's with- It's within the whole tent, the whole tent. They They've got a 20 by 30 tent. Um this is our first year doing this. Um I'm I'm going to say I was assuming that there's going to be some sort of stanchions around the whole thing or even walls around the whole entire thing.
[0:13:22] Is it a That's That's my question. Is it like a uh three-panel tent?
[0:13:28] I have not seen the tent. Um
[0:13:31] Um sorry. I'll I'll speak to that. There's uh yeah, there's three there's three side walls and then the front where people would enter will have stanchions.
[0:13:34] Thanks.
[0:13:40] Okay. Security?
[0:13:41] Uh yeah, we'll have one.
[0:13:43] One?
[0:13:43] Yeah.
[0:13:44] Okay.
[0:13:46] Yeah. What What do you have for security for the event?
[0:13:50] Uh there's police details hired.
[0:13:53] Okay. Sergeant Needham, anything else?
[0:13:55] Nothing else.
[0:13:57] Is there anyone present or online that have any questions or comments? Hearing none, motion to approve.
[0:14:05] Second.
[0:14:06] Commissioner Fisher?
[0:14:06] Yes.
[0:14:07] Chair Vigliotti?
[0:14:07] Yes. Thank you. Enjoy the event.
[0:14:10] Thank you so much.
[0:14:13] Thank you.
[0:14:13] [cough] You're welcome. Number four on the agenda, Worcester Historical Museum, DBA Museum of Worcester, request for one-day liquor license, request for one-day entertainment license, for live music, dancing by entertainers for Thursday, November 5th, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, November 6th, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Saturday, November 7th, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Is there anyone present or online to address this application?
[0:14:41] Yep. Good morning. This is uh Eric Butler, uh executive director of Museum of Worcester.
[0:14:44] Good morning, Mr. Butler. I assume this is the uh El Morocco celebration?
[0:14:49] This is the El Morocco celebration um that will happen at the Museum of Worcester uh November 5th through the 7th. Yes.
[0:14:52] Okay.
[0:14:56] Okay. Please tell us about this event, how many people are attending and what you have for security?
[0:15:02] Sure, we'll have uh, you know, full staff on board at the the museum. Uh it will uh happen uh as I said 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Uh it will be a um celebration uh in um a supplemental uh program with our Arab American uh exhibit at the museum. Uh there'll be uh some Arabic uh food available uh for guests, uh a beer and wine um station uh for for folks uh with a TIPS-certified bartender, an insured bartender, uh professional bartender available uh for for sale.
[0:15:37] Okay. You are selling tickets for this event?
[0:15:41] Yep, tickets are are sold for the event uh, but tickets for um uh drinks would be sold separately.
[0:15:47] Okay. Commissioner Fisher?
[0:15:49] No questions.
[0:15:50] Sergeant Needham?
[0:15:51] No issues.
[0:15:51] Is there anyone present or online have any questions or comments? Hearing none, motion to approve.
[0:15:59] Second.
[0:16:00] Commissioner Fisher?
[0:16:00] Yes.
[0:16:01] Chair Vigliotti?
[0:16:01] Yes. Thank you. Have a great time.
[0:16:06] Thank you.
[0:16:08] Next on the agenda are common victualler request, number five, Cera's Pizza, 186 Stafford Street with operating hours on Sunday uh 10:00 a.m. to uh 1:00 a.m., Monday 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Friday 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. and Saturdays 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Anyone present or online to address this application?
[0:16:44] We'll hold it to the end. Five on the agenda, Dragon Dynasty, 104 Highland Street, operating hours on Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
[0:17:03] Hi.
[0:17:04] Good morning.
[0:17:04] Hi, good morning. My name is Angela Kwan. I'm the paralegal working for Chance Law Firm in Boston, Massachusetts.
[0:17:11] Oh, welcome to Worcester.
[0:17:11] Thank you. Thank you. Today we present clients on the applications CV license, Lucky Dragon Inc. taking over the an existing restaurant Dragon Dynasty at 104 Highland Avenue in Worcester. Uh the new owner will continue to operate the restaurant um as a Chinese food restaurant. Nothing change.
[0:17:34] Okay. Anything else you'd like to say?
[0:17:36] Sorry?
[0:17:37] Anything else you would like to say to-
[0:17:39] Uh no. We we I'm
[0:17:41] Had enough? [laughter]
[0:17:42] I'm hap- happy to answer if the board have any questions to the operation.
[0:17:45] Sure.
[0:17:46] Well, again, uh congratulations to the new owner. Commissioner Fisher?
[0:17:51] No questions.
[0:17:52] Sergeant Needham?
[0:17:53] No issues.
[0:17:55] Anyone present or online have any questions or comments? Hearing none, motion to approve.
[0:18:01] Second.
[0:18:02] Commissioner Fisher?
[0:18:02] Yes.
[0:18:03] Chair Vigliotti?
[0:18:03] Yes. Thank you. Enjoy the new business.
[0:18:05] Thank you very much.
[0:18:07] Thank you. Bye-bye.
[0:18:08] Bye.
[0:18:09] Next on the agenda, alcohol entertainment request, it's number seven on the agenda. It's the Worcester Detachment Marine Corps League, 181 Lake Ave, request for change of manager. Anyone present online to address this application?
[0:18:25] I am, Mike Capers.
[0:18:27] Good morning, Mr. Capers. Please tell us about what you're doing with the change of manager. And where do you live, sir?
[0:18:30] Morning.
[0:18:35] I live in Auburn, Mass.
[0:18:36] Okay. So, change of manager, tell us about this, please.
[0:18:41] Yep, I was I'm the new hired manager, started in August, and I'm looking to put my name on the liquor license.
[0:18:49] Okay. Commissioner Fisher?
[0:18:51] No questions.
[0:18:52] Sergeant Needham?
[0:18:54] Based on the background investigation, there is nothing that would statutorily prevent the application of the proposed applicant moving forward.
[0:19:02] Is there anyone present or online that have any questions or comments? Hearing none, motion to approve.
[0:19:09] Second.
[0:19:10] Commissioner Fisher?
[0:19:10] Yes.
[0:19:11] Chair Vigliotti?
[0:19:11] Yes. Thank you.
[0:19:13] Thank you, sir.
[0:19:15] Eight on the agenda, Eddie's Pub and Sports Bar, 120 Stafford Street, request for entertainment license for TV, radio, recorded music, live music, karaoke. Anyone present online to address this application?
[0:19:30] I'm present.
[0:19:32] And who are you and where do you live?
[0:19:34] Um, I'm Gabriel Cardoso, and I'm from Worcester.
[0:19:36] Okay, please tell us about this application.
[0:19:39] Um, we're just applying for basic uh the basic entertainment license for TVs overhead, uh recorded music overhead as well, karaoke on Fridays, and then uh some live music, maybe, every Saturday.
[0:19:51] Thank you. Commissioner Fisher?
[0:19:53] No questions.
[0:19:54] Well, we welcome uh Commissioner Cruz. Good morning.
[0:19:57] Good morning.
[0:19:58] Any questions Commissioner
[0:20:00] No. Is there anyone present or online that have any questions or comments? Hearing none, motion to approve. Second. Commissioner Cruz? Yes. Chair Vigliotti? Yes.
[0:20:13] Uh Mr. Chairman, can we go back to number five, Ciro's Pizzeria? I believe they're on the line now. Sure. Thank you. Number five on the agenda, going back to the common victualer request is Ciro's Pizza, 186 Stafford Street.
[0:20:30] With operating hours proposed for Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., Monday, 10:00 to 10:00 p.m., Tuesday, 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Wednesdays, 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
[0:20:42] Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Fridays, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Good morning, who's addressing the License Commission, and where do you live?
[0:20:58] Good morning, [cough] my name is Ciro Amado, and uh we uh I live in Boston, Massachusetts. We We are just taking over this uh pizzeria, trying to open up uh for the public and provide good service.
[0:21:13] Thank you. Ms. Chair Fisher? No questions. Ms. Chair Cruz? No questions. Sergeant Needham, any issues? No issues. Anyone present or online have any questions or comments? Hearing none, motion to approve. Second. Commissioner Cruz? Yes. Commissioner
[0:21:30] Fisher? Yes. Chair Vigliotti? Yes. Thank you, enjoy the new business. Thank you. Next on the agenda are violation hearings. Number nine is IC Gaming, 117 Lovell Street.
[0:21:43] Is there anyone present to address- Please, sir, come right up to the desk right here, come right through that gate. As a resident, not as a Say again? As resident, not proprietor. Okay. Is there anyone here on the application
[0:22:00] uh for IC Gaming for 117 Lovell Street besides the gentleman that just is here? Anyone else? Three of us. Okay. Through the chair, I don't Is the owner of the gaming present? Through the chair, I do not see him.
[0:22:15] He was in the office twice this week, and I reminded him twice that he needed to attend this hearing. So, I don't know if you just want to continue with the next violation and then hear this at the end? Well, these three folks have shown up for this hearing. Um, I'm going to ask you- there's a microphone in front of you folks.
[0:22:31] If each of you want to take it, you came here. You can address us and tell us why you're here and what issues you may have. Great. Thank you, uh, can I- I'm s- I apologize. 1 second, sir. The The violation, Sergeant Needham, do you have a report on this, or? Yes, I do. Okay. Um, I'm going to ask you if you don't mind giving the report,
[0:22:52] cuz these folks are here, and we want to extend the courtesy of giving them the hearing. They're swearing you in. Swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, nothing but the truth under the pains and penalties of perjury? I do.
[0:23:10] And just state that testifying for our city is Sergeant Thomas Needham, Officer Patrick Harrington, and Lieutenant? Inspector. Inspector, I'll give you Lieutenant. A lawyer mind. Sergeant. On September 5th, 2026,
[0:23:29] I was acting a supervisory capacity assigned to the Alcohol Enforcement Unit. I was working in a plainclothes capacity, operating an unmarked police vehicle, I had my badge of office on a lanyard around my neck, and I was wearing my assigned body-worn camera. At 20 after 1:00 in the morning, while monitoring radio transmissions, I became aware of a call for service that operations patrol officers responded to at 117 Lovell Street,
[0:23:53] IC Gamings Zone. I was aware of that location, had knowledge of prior incidents at the location requiring officers from my unit to discuss allowed and not allowed activities with the owner. Among those activities not allowed was the use of tobacco, hookah, on-site.
[0:24:09] The business does not possess any tobacco license issued by the City of Worcester. At this time, I proceeded to drive to the location. Upon my arrival at that location, I observed Officer Santiago and Edmonds on the sidewalk by the rear parking lot of the business. I observed approximately 25 to 30 individuals milling around the parking lot and the sidewalk area.
[0:24:29] Officers explained to me that they were dispatched to the scene for disturbance, and they could see a large crowd of people inside the establishment. While in the parking lot, I could see smoke coming from the interior of the building as individuals entered and exited, indicating smoking inside the building. I made contact with the owner, Ayub Ali, and asked how many people he had inside. He stated that he was unsure.
[0:24:50] I asked him to check to see what his occupancy was, and we accompanied him inside the business. As we walked inside, I could see and smell tobacco smoke and the aroma of burnt marijuana smoke. A loudspeaker was playing amplified music, and the crowd inside was estimated at 50 plus.
[0:25:06] The business was licensed, permitted so uh to be open only until 12:00 a.m., and officers began to give orders that everyone needed to leave. Once the crowd was dispersed, I observed six still warm to the touch hookah pipes, shisha tobacco, an empty bottle of 750 mL Don Julio Tequila,
[0:25:27] and a 1.75 L half-full bottle of Lanazul Tequila. The bottles of alcohol were recovered from the trash located next to the kitchen area. The pipes and tobacco were located under a food service area just outside the kitchen. The business does not possess a liquor license issued by the City of Worcester.
[0:25:45] The bottle with contents were seized. While inside the establishment, I observed that the Lovell Street door had an illuminated exit sign, but the door was deadbolted shut. While on-site, I asked Ali where he where any food permits, common victualer license, or any license issued by the city were.
[0:26:04] He was unaw- He was unable to locate any paperwork. He stated to me that he would have the next evening. I informed him that I would be documenting the incident for follow-up. On September 6th, the very next evening, I was again working the supervisory capacity assigned through the Alcohol Enforcement Unit, working in a plainclothes capacity, operating an unmarked police vehicle,
[0:26:27] I had my badge of office on a lanyard around my neck, and I was wearing my assigned body-worn camera. At 12:43 in the morning, I was in the area of 117 Lovell Street, IC Gaming Zone, monitoring the location for any after-hours activity. The business was originally issued a permit to operate only until 12:00 a.m.
[0:26:47] I could clearly see individuals exiting the business and other patrons arriving at the location and entering the business after the 12:00 a.m. time. I was monitoring the location due to an incident at the establishment the prior evening involving a large number of individuals coming and going from the business and people hanging around creating a disturbance. I had responded to the prior incident and discovered warm hookah pipes,
[0:27:09] hookah tobacco, and alcohol on the premise. The owner was on scene that evening, and he was advised. Based on these observations, I requested Officer Harrington from my unit to respond, and also requested uniformed officers to respond to investigate. Upon their arrival, we approached the business and made contact with
[0:27:28] Ayub Ali. I could hear amplified music coming from within and informed Ali that his business was only licensed to be open until 12:00 a.m. We accompanied him inside. While inside, I observed around 30-plus individuals inside the business. I could smell the aroma of smoke and the aroma of burnt marijuana. Business does not possess a tobacco license. Officer Harrington informed me
[0:27:49] that he discovered one hookah pipe located in the side door leading to the neighboring business. He informed me that the pipe was still warm to his touch. Ali informed Harrington that he was smoking the hookah inside the establishment. While inside the business, I observed party decorations hanging from the ceiling and that the door leading to Lovell Street was covered and taped with a black trash bag over the window portion.
[0:28:13] The same door had an illuminated exit sign over it, but the door was deadbolted shut. I reminded Ali that I was the same officer that was on scene at the previous incident and asked if he had located any of the proper licenses, certificates for his business. He informed me that he did not. I again informed him that I would be documenting the inc- incident along with the prior evening's and would follow up with fire, code,
[0:28:35] and health tobacco departments. Officer Harrington and uh Inspector Martin also have information regarding further follow-up at the location. Officer Harrington. Hey, in regards to uh [cough] In regards to uh the evening of compliance check from Worcester Fire and Worcester Code,
[0:28:54] um a copy Do you have a copy of the ear- initial report from Worcester Fire? Through the chair, that was the one I emailed you yesterday. Yes, yep. Yes. Do you want to read that in the record? Through the chair,
[0:29:16] That was one of the emails, yes. [cough] I'd like to read the incident narrative for the record. I have that. You have it? Oh, you have that, okay. The compliance team, inspection officers, completed a compliance inspection on October 23rd
[0:29:29] around 2,100 hours at 117 Lovell Street, IC Gaming. Upon entering the Lovell Street area, the compliance team observed a significant volume of vehicles and numerous young individuals wearing Halloween costumes walking toward the rear parking lot of 117 Lovell Street. Due to the volume of vehicles and pedestrians in the area, Officer Harrington pulled onto a nearby side road and radioed dispatch to request assistance.
[0:29:56] The compliance team subsequently entered the establishment through the rear entrance. Inspector Trippi and Inspector Martin were assigned to determine the total number of patrons inside the building. Due to the number of individuals inside the establishments,
[0:30:10] establishment, inspectors determined that an accurate count could not be completed safely and efficiently while moving through the occupied space. Worcester Police Department officers and members of the compliance team directed all occupants to the exit of the building. Inspector Trippi proceeded to the front entrance and discovered that the emergency exit was secured with a deadbolt.
[0:30:30] Inspector Trippi requested the front door be unlocked and propped open, allowing individuals to exit through the front entrance while Inspector Martin counted those exiting through the rear emergency exit. The number of occupants made it difficult for individuals to exit the building. As patrons were leaving, several young individuals were heard shouting that they want their money back.
[0:30:51] The final count is as follows: front entrance, 109 individuals; rear eg- emergency exit, 102 individuals. Combined count, 211 individuals. The permitted occupancy at 16 individuals based on a 2,500 ft² area and an occupant load factor of 150 ft² per person,
[0:31:12] consistent with the stated business use and associated occupant load calculations. After the building was cleared, inspectors began examining the premise. The following items and conditions were observed: multiple alcohol bottles concealed behind kitchen appliances, opened and empty hard seltzer cans throughout the premise,
[0:31:30] DJ equipment, hookah supplies, a pool table positioned against a second rear means of egress, a metal container holding receipts dated as far back as August 2026, a credit card processing terminal, additional items and equipment throughout the establishment. The responsible party, Ayub Ali, was present during the incident.
[0:31:47] A 19-year-old female, who's also present, informed officers that she was working as the bartender. Officer Harrington directed that no one was permitted to re-enter the establishment and that the doors were to remain locked until further notice. A building permit issued in 2025 authorized a change of use from mercantile to business occupancy.
[0:32:06] During the permit review process, it was repeatedly documented that no alcohol was to be served at the establishment and that it is a space was intended to operate as an arcade for online gaming. WFD records indicate that an entertainment license was approved for 117 Lovell Street on June 20th, 2025, authorizing television and play only.
[0:32:30] That's it. Thank you. Thank you. Did you have further comment or questions from-? We have an additional report on uh October 23rd, 2026, from 117 Lovell Street. On October 23rd, 2026, members of the Worcester Fire, Code, and Alcohol Enforcement units conducted a compliance check
[0:32:49] at the uh 117 Lovell Street, IC Gaming Zone. It should be noted the City of Worcester has received numerous complaints for loud music, disturbances, and underage drinking at this location. On five different occasions, the police have responded to this location, and the business was observed operating without proper licenses
[0:33:09] and permits, to include smoking hookah and selling alcohol without permits and a nightclub activity. On two separate occasions, I, I, Officer Harrington, along with other members of Fire and Code, have personally spoke with the owner, identified as Ayub Ali, and advised him
[0:33:26] of the proper licenses and requirements to operate in such a manner in a commercial space. Upon approach on this evening to the business, we observed numerous people standing at the door to enter the establishment, and extremely loud music coming from within. As we made our way inside, we observed well over 100 people standing room only.
[0:33:48] And the majority appeared to be high school aged juveniles. As members of the Fire and Code De- Department conducted an occupancy check and began to clear the crowd that was well above fire safety code, my attention was drawn to a small bar area. Behind the bar, I located a female, later identified as a 19-year-old.
[0:34:10] Also located behind the bar was the above various um alcohol to include tequila, seltza beers, cups, small amounts, some US currency. Upon clearing the crowd, a final count of the occupancy revealed 211 people.
[0:34:29] It should be noted that while clearing the crowd, people could be heard saying, "We want our money back." Additionally, a credit card machine and receipts were located within the bar area. It was immediately apparent that the owner had no regard to um excuse me, no regard to juvenile safety, and was procuring alcohol to his patrons and a 19-year-old bartender.
[0:34:53] The above individuals were placed under arrest. Additional above liquor was located inside the kitchen and patron area. That's all I have. Thank you. Folks, uh you've come here to testify. You're neighbors, please come to the microphone. Tell us who you are, where you live, and
[0:35:12] Um, Kevin Ksen, I live just diagonal across from the uh site. Well, good morning and welcome. Thank you. Some of you remember me. I was at the uh site visit when you folks came to look- inspect this place. And I remember at the meeting, Councilor Fisher, you are actually very good about asking the hours be uh whittled back a little bit knowing it was a a community uh
[0:35:32] residential area. Um, I think the officers and, and uh city folks have announced well what what happened, you know, in a in a kind of concrete factual way. Um, [sigh] this is this is hard. Like I I'm a community organizer, and I want to support
[0:35:51] small businesses growing and young people doing things. Uh, it's not safe. It's not safe. So, uh I think one thing that I'd like on the record is my understanding is that when this establishment first opened up, a youngster was sexually assaulted
[0:36:09] in that pro- property uh in that business. Uh and then I think we need to I want to paint the picture a little bit about as a neighbor what was happening outside the building. So there's a whole list of like this weekend this happens, this weekend this happens, I'm going to leave that to to somebody else to talk about. I'm just going to talk about the nights that have been brought up now.
[0:36:29] This is happening at the at the rotary of Lovell Street. Th- the big night was closer to, I would define, as a melee. There was just kids running, cars pulling up, horns beeping, cars tearing out, you know, they're seeing the police, they're tearing out,
[0:36:48] wheels burning through the rotary, kids running through the rotary. Like when you watch the body cam footage, you will see just how bad it was. Like people kids running everywhere. And these were so young kids in Halloween costumes and what have you. So it was it was unsafe.
[0:37:07] Unsafe. Um, and knowing how young the youngsters were there. Uh I think it also should be added to this uh discussion that the the owner was running it as a nightclub. So there were flyers printed up about these events. These flyers were distributed in at schools to to kids. Um,
[0:37:26] there was somebody at the door doing check-in, you know, like just like a nightclub. So they were creating the atmosphere of a nightclub and promoting themselves a night- a nightclub, and um this is what we got. You know, this is this is the way it played out. Um, and then I'm just going to end with,
[0:37:46] you know, I I talked to the the owner early on um, and I just said like, "There's, you know, there's a way to do this correctly where you're you're not going to risk lives. But this is going to get out of control unless you have some rules in place," cuz cuz from day one, there was cars playing music at 11:00 at night in the back parking lot, 12:00 at night, tear out of there and what have you, so.
[0:38:09] Um, I I don't like arguing to shut down a business, but I I know that I did what I could as a neighbor and as somebody that wanted that business to succeed. I talked to that owner. I asked him, "Let's do this, work work hard, follow the rules." Um, and and clearly the choice was just not to, so. Thank you. Thank you.
[0:38:29] Next. Good morning, welcome. Good morning. Um my name is Etel Haxhiaj. I live directly diagonally from um this business. And I'm the former District 5 City Councilor. I only mention that because I want for the record to reflect that I personally had
[0:38:49] uh multiple conversations with Mr. Ali uh as uh as soon as his business opened. Um so, I just want to say first and foremost, we were excited for this small business to come into the neighborhood. Uh it pains me to be here and advocate that you suspend the license
[0:39:07] uh because it simply is not safe. We learned about the alleged sexual assault of a young woman there uh at our neighborhood meeting, uh that was back in 2025. Uh the the liaison with the police officer, Captain McKiernan,
[0:39:23] uh who was the liaison with the PD informed um our neighborhood group after I had brought in concerns about loud parties, uh the residents um in the area uh contacting me to do something about the business. Uh he let us know that there was an investigation of potentially sexual assault. That raised
[0:39:41] huge red flags for me and the neighbors. Uh on multiple occasions, I went over uh and have even texted Mr. Ali and asked him to contact me if he needed if he needed any support with learning how to do, you know, how to run a business safely. Um I gave him my personal number
[0:40:00] I gave him my cell phone number for the city. I asked him if he had any issues, please contact me. We don't want any issues in the neighborhood. I explained that his name had come up multiple times in the neighborhood meetings. I was met with a lot of dismissal. I was met with rude remarks, and I was very disappointed to know that this young person who was an up-and-coming business owner
[0:40:24] also just dismissed a city official who was living directly and witnessing across the street what was happening. Um I just want to pause also for a moment and just give Sergeant Needham kudos for communicating right away as I reached out to multiple departments, including ISD, fire department, Commissioner Antonovica, because I was really concerned.
[0:40:48] And now that I know that there were multiple conversations and multiple reports that our city departments, unfortunately, did not communicate with each other to be proactive and and actually suspend the license of this business.
[0:40:58] Um I'm going to speak now as a resident that lives there. On multiple occasions, I witnessed, along with my family members, upwards of 300 kids. So the last incident that happened there, which I know you folks have it as 200, I'm not a a a mathematician, but I could it was it was incredibly
[0:41:20] jarring to see what felt like 300 kids booked into that small space, stuffed into that small space. I am appalled at the details that are coming out of the report with alcohol, with ah tobacco and marijuana in in that small space with a lot of young
[0:41:40] kids who look like high school kids. Um I am really thankful that nobody got sexually assaulted again, as far as we know, and nobody got hurt. Um it was really sad to see that this business owner has been able to operate for over a year in this manner
[0:42:01] when the neighborhood has consistently and multiple times informed both the the neighborhood folks that come to our meeting, ISD and WPD. Um and finally it took an incident that big to bring together all this reports to let you know that this this business, unfortunately, is not safe
[0:42:22] for our neighborhood. Um I would love nothing more than to support this young person, learn how to do a business properly. However, at this point, it really pains me to say, on behalf of my next-door neighbors as well at Six Englewood Avenue and others, that we should absolutely suspend the license and not allow this person to operate there again. It's not safe for our kids,
[0:42:43] it's not safe for our neighborhood. And lastly, I would add for the record, it would be really helpful if in the future there are multiple reports of severe violations that have gone for over, you know, a year, that those reports be brought to your attention before the neighborhood steps in and asks for a violation hearing. Um so I want to thank you, and I really hope that the three of you will vote to suspend the license.
[0:43:08] And also want to give thanks to the folks here who have meticulously ah documented what happened. Okay, thank you very much. Ma'am. Good morning. Good morning. Thank you so much. Um my name is Sue Swanson.
[0:43:24] I'm one of the co-leaders of the Columbus Park Neighborhood Association. I live on Circuit Avenue North and have not been a part of the evening melees that have been going on, but I did want to just first of all thank police officials and fire officials for their due diligence and their communication with the Neighborhood Association.
[0:43:45] We've been in existence for over 25 years. We take quality of life issues very importantly and public safety, and I think it's it's obvious and clear to everybody here that the egregious violations it's it's time to end that. We need new business that is willing to contribute,
[0:44:05] and we would love to support that new business. So um I think the only other question I would have is whether or not there is, and then this may be happening, any additional investigations going on in terms of drug-purchasing. It's just been a front uh for a number of violations. Um and I just cannot imagine having doors dead-bolted
[0:44:28] with 250 youth in this So thank you, appreciate doing the right thing. Well, thank you for coming and testifying this morning. Is there anyone else that would like to have any questions or comments? Ma'am, please come to the podium.
[0:44:48] Please tell us your name and where you live. Um my name is Nisha Berry. Um unfortunately, uh I am the girlfriend of the victim and I happened to be Not what what This is No no, this is not Hurricane Betty's, this is Oh, okay. I'm sorry. Lovell Street. All right. I'm sorry. That's that's a Dana Dana moment in the night.
[0:45:10] All right. Is there anyone else that, on this Lovell Street situation, that wants to make any comments or questions? Anyone online? Commissioner Fisher. Um yeah, so [cough] you know it's I think it speaks volumes that the the owner isn't here today.
[0:45:30] Um I don't think you know, I wouldn't want this happening in my neighborhood. It sounds like there's a lot of uh serious allegations, and um, you know, I guess my question is, are you looking for suspension or revocation of the license? Because there's a big difference. Um It doesn't sound like there's a, you know, it's a business that uh
[0:45:51] you'd want to continue being part of the neighborhood because they're not being a good neighbor. So um Through the chair, I did receive an application. It is closed currently for a new owner to take over this location,
[0:46:10] which will be heard at the next meeting. According to the new owner, they want to turn into a shawarma restaurant. I I said we should pull the license today. Yeah. Get get finished. Yeah, well, so I was going to make a motion to pull their license altogether. All right. Commissioner Cruz. Yes, and uh thank you all for being here and um
[0:46:30] I'm also Honestly, when I read the report and I'm looking at 211 people in a occupancy space for 16 uh this is just uh sheer arrogance, I think when it comes to disregarding the law and the safety of others. And again, I'm I'm for neighborhood quality. I support small businesses, but this is completely
[0:46:51] um outrageous. And I concur with uh Commissioner Fisher that uh we pull the license. Um they don't deserve to have it, especially with that behavior um affecting not only the neighborhood, but um actually I think the whole city, because these are our kids also that have been going in there, so.
[0:47:11] The police and fire have given us a horrendous great report, and they put a lot of effort and time into investigating this facility. You coming forward and telling us of additional of problems in the neighborhood speaks volumes for what's happening here. What really speaks volumes for what's going on
[0:47:31] is the failure of the owner of the premises to show up at a public meeting in which his license is on the board for a hearing and not here. Commissioner Fisher has made a motion to revoke the license. I will second that motion. Commissioner Cruz? Yes. Commissioner Fisher? Yes. Chair Vigliotti? Yes.
[0:47:53] Thank you for participating. Thank you, Sergeant, Officer Arrigton. Inspector mine. Thank you.
[0:48:07] Next on the agenda: Jolo Inc DBA Hurricane Betty's 350 Southbridge Street, violations of rules 1, two counts of it, rule 14, 17, 29, and 3. Folks, want to come up to the table, please?
[0:48:26] Please identify yourself first. Push the the green light. Make sure the green light is on. Scotty Foreman. And you are? Uh. The manager. We need that to put that on the record. Just keep it on. Just keep it on. And counsel? Good morning, Commissioners. Sean Smith for Jolo Inc, acting as Hurricane Betty's. Okay. Before I proceed, I'm going to ask everyone who's going to testify to please stand
[0:48:54] and raise your right hand, if you're testifying. We're not going to be offering any testimony. No? Well, I still have to do this. Swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, under pains and penalties of perjury? I do. Thank you. The officers are going to read the report of the alleged violations. You know the routine. You have the right to ask questions or make comments.
[0:49:15] Board will have the right to ask questions or make comments when the report is concluded. And then we'll have a discussion from there. Sergeant Needham. Bear with me, it's a long one. Yes.
[0:49:31] The undersigned the undersigned investigator requested Jolo Inc, doing business as Hurricane Betty's located at 350 Southbridge Street, appear before the Worcester License Commission to answer to police complaints for violation of the rules and regulations of the Worcester License Commission that occurred on
[0:49:50] October 11th, 2026. Rule number one: Hours for restaurants, clubs, hotels in general on-premise are: Sunday: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. the following morning, or as otherwise specified on the license. Sales to cease at 1:45 a.m., or 15 minutes before the specified closing time.
[0:50:08] Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. the following morning, or as otherwise specified on the license. Sales to cease at 1:45 a.m. or 15 minutes before closing time. All patrons off the premise by closing hour. Hours for taverns: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday:
[0:50:28] 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., sales to cease at 12:45 a.m.; Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 midnight, sales to cease at 11:45 a- uh 11:45 p.m. Closed on Sundays. All patrons off premise by closing hour. Clearance hours:
[0:50:47] Unconsumed beverages must be cleared at closing hour as stated above. Licensees and employees may remain upon premise at any time for the purpose of cleaning, making emergency repairs to, or providing security for such premise, or preparing food for the next day's business, or opening or closing the business in an orderly manner.
[0:51:07] The main door cannot be locked until all patrons have left the premise. There are two counts of that rule violation: the main door being locked and the clearance times violation. Rule 14: Managers of all licensed liquor establishments shall be responsible for all violations or infractions of the law occurring on the premise, whether present or not.
[0:51:28] The licensee is responsible for any disorder, disturbance, or illegality of any kind taking place on the licensed premise, whether present or not. Rule 17: Taverns, restaurants, general on-premise hotels, and clubs are prohibited from purchasing alcoholic beverages other than malt and wine in bottles or original containers holding less than one-ha- 1/5
[0:51:50] of a gallon or 0.75 L. Taverns, restaurants, general on-premise hotels, and clubs are prohibited making sales by by bottles or package to be taken away from the premise. No alcoholic beverage to be consumed except in areas Excuse me, Sergeant Needham. Sir, can I help you? I'm sorry to come late, but uh the front desk they sent me to the City Hall, that's why. You came here for what, sir? For this. This is for Lovell Street. This is for Hurricane Betty's. Is it Lovell Street? No, he's for Lovell Street. For Lovell Street? That matter has already been heard. Huh? That matter was already heard. Oh, because I was here early, but the the front desk they they send me to the City Hall, like the the court and I was there waiting.
[0:52:32] And then somebody called me just now, as they said like uh laughing at me, "Oh, your business is closed been closing." And I was like, "What's going on?" I didn't I didn't know. I thought it's over there in the court the court section. Through the chair, he received his notice, which said Esther Howland. I also reminded him the other day [inaudible] at City Hall. I came here early at 8:00. I was here at 8:00. Ask the front desk. That woman with glasses. Okay. I I would just tell you, sir,
[0:52:55] Yeah. that the meeting starts at 10:00. There's an agenda. The agenda was followed. You were not here for the hearing. You can uh options that you have uh you have the right to take an appeal on whatever the board decided. The board did decide to revoke your license, and you have a right to take an appeal from that decision.
[0:53:18] Other than that, that's all I can apologize and say to you. Uh you had a responsibility to be here on time for me. I was I was here early, I swear. Even if you see my tag, I signed [inaudible]. All right, that can be you you can make that argument uh on whatever appeal route you decide to take. Okay? We're done. Yeah, yeah. No, I was up from 7:00, like No, we're we're done. Thank you. Yeah, all right. Thank you. Thank you.
[0:53:46] Okay, I'm sorry, Sergeant Needham. It's alright. Please proceed. Uh the last line of rule 17: No alcoholic beverages to be consumed except in areas specified on the license. Rule 27: All licensed premises shall conform to the number of persons allowed on their building or occupancy permits.
[0:54:06] Rule 29: In the event that a disturbance or a breach of the peace occurs on the licensed premise, resulting in a physical injury to any persons, the licensee or responsible party shall promptly notify the police and shall take all reasonable steps to assist such injured person, and shall cooperate with police in their investigation. Rule 37: Bottle service.
[0:54:26] Section A: A section 12 on-premise licensee shall be permitted to provide law bottle service of distilled spirits to two or more patrons. For the purpose of this rule, bottle service shall mean the sale of liquor, distilled spirits, by the bottle to a group of patrons of a section 12 licensed establishment.
[0:54:49] Section B: When providing bottle service, a licensee must provide a bottle host who is responsible for handling the bottle at all times. A bottle host is defined as an employee of the licensed still liquor establishment who is TIPS-certified and handles the liquor. A bottle host may not leave the bottle unattended at any at a table at any time.
[0:55:12] Section C: All alcoholic beverages must be served, dispensed, or sold by the bottle host or an employee or owner of the licensed liquor establishment. Alco- Alcoholic beverages may not be served or dispensed by patrons.
[0:55:30] Section D: The bottle host must be The bottle must be sold at a price proportionate to its size to avoid violation of a happy hour uh regulations. On October 11th, 2026, the Worcester Police Department responded to Hurricane Betty's strip club, located at 350 Southbridge Street, in response to a ShotSpotter activation that came in at 2:06 in the morning.
[0:55:53] Responding officers arrived on scene, found one adult male in the roadway suffering from multiple gunshots. The victim was treated on scene and transported to UMass Hospital on Lake Ave where he received further treatment, but succumbed to his injuries. Officers were then notified that a second gunshot gunshot wound victim had been transported to UMass Memorial Hospital on Belmont Street.
[0:56:15] The victim was transported by a private vehicle and not by ambulance. It was determined through investigation that the second victim was involved in the incident at Hurricane Betty's and received their wounds as a result of that in- incident.
[0:56:30] Patrol supervisors responded to the scene and requested Detective Bureau personnel to respond due to the nature of the incident. Accordingly out Accordingly, officers from the Detective Bureau responded to begin their process of her investigation. During this process, video evidence of the interior and exterior of Hurricane Betty's was provided to detectives by employees of the business.
[0:56:51] Video evidence recovered included footage prior to the incident and after the incident. That video evidence re- was recovered and uploaded to evidence.com. On the recovered video, there is a time- and datestamp that indicates when the recordings were captured. The time is accurate, however the time displayed is 3 hours behind the actual time. For example, 2:00 in the morning
[0:57:12] is recorded as 11:00 in the evening. Recovered video evidence covers the time frame between 1:00 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. I was able to view footage of the innocent in the manner in which section 12 license holder conducted their business that evening. Upon my initial observations of the video,
[0:57:32] I was able to clearly identify a number of violations of the rules and regulations of the Worcester License Commission. Among the violations that I observed are: At 1:47 a.m., a patron is observed walking out the front door of the business in possession of a clear plastic cup containing a colored liquid. The individual in possession of the beverage has the cup concealed under their chest portion of their jacket upon exiting.
[0:57:56] When reaching the sidewalk, they remove the cup, mill around the sidewalk, conversing with other individuals. 1:49 a.m., three individuals enter the business and appear to be advised by security that it's too late to enter the club based on that employee's mannerisms. The three remained at the entrance and are eventually observed moving to the right of the walk-through metal detector,
[0:58:19] and they enter into the club. All three individuals did not pass through the metal detector, and all three did not present any in- identification to be scanned as required on the license. The three individuals were also able to order and were served alcoholic beverages. At 1:52 a.m., security personnel are observed using a set of keys and manipulating
[0:58:43] the front door locking mechanism. The The action allowed the front door to be pushed open by patrons, allowing them to leave, but the action also caused the front door to be locked to any individuals attempting to enter the business. This action would not allow any This action would also not allow any emergency personnel to respond to the location in the event of an emergency,
[0:59:04] and be able to quickly gain access to the interior of the business. 1:53 a.m., a patron walks out the front door of the business in possession of a plastic cup containing a colored liquid. At 1:55 a.m., four individuals are observed entering the business when the front door opens while patrons are exiting. Two individuals are observed moving to the left of the walk-through metal detector,
[0:59:28] and two individuals walk through the detec- detector, where they are stopped by security. Four individu- individuals are stopped by security, who appears to tell the individuals that it is too late to enter the business, based upon that employee's mannerisms. While advising the four patrons, security is observed walking away from the entrance and walked toward towards the middle of the bar
[0:59:52] for what appears to be a disturbance. While security is responding to the disturbance, the front entrance is no longer manned by security, and the four individuals enter the
[1:00:00] business. Two individuals that had walked through the metal detector were not given a secondary frisk after the machine alerted. The other two individuals entered the business without ever walking through the detector. All four individuals did not present any identification for scanning. At 1:56 a.m., a patron is observed walking out the front door of the business in possession of an open bottle of beer. 1:57 a.m., a patron is observed walking out the front door of the business in possession of a clear plastic cup containing a colored liquid. At 1:58, a patron is observed inside the business in possession of a bottle of Don Julio Tequila. The business is not authorized to conduct bottle service. At 2:01 a.m., a verbal confrontation between patrons who had left the business breaks out at the front entrance of the business. One security person exits doorway and attempts to separate the involved individuals. Verbal altercation turns into a physical altercation, and creases from pushing and shoving to throwing punches. Two more security personnel exit the club to assist the first security person. This altercation Altercation involves numerous people, and moves north bound towards downtown on the sidewalk of the entrance. In addition to the three security personnel outside attempting to actively stop the physical fighting, a female bartender comes out onto the sidewalk, and observes the assault. A fourth security persons is observed exiting the club at this time and assist other security personnel in attempting to break up the fight. The group that was actively engaged in the physical fight moves back towards the entrance of the business, and there appears to be some semblance of order restored. At this time, a patron is observed walking out of the club carrying a full 750 ml bottle of Don Julio Tequila. This is the same individual earlier observed in possession of the bottle while inside the club. Two other patrons are also observed exiting the business with plastic cups containing an alcoholic mix drink that I had previously observed the bartender make and serve to them. These individuals are observed milling around on the sidewalk, watching the disturbance while in possession of the alcoholic beverages. One of the individuals with the drink is also observed engaged in a conversation with the same bark bartender that had come out onto the sidewalk to observe the disturbance. 2:03 a.m. the group involved in the disturbance is still gathered outside the front door of the business, and remains on the sidewalk. Security personnel are still on the sidewalk in the same area. At this time, one of the patrons involved in the initial assault approaches the patron that was also involved in the initial disturbance assault, begins to strike that individual. From the video, it appears that person who had It appears that the person has an object in their hand, and they're striking the other individual in the head area. Other patrons that were involved in the initial assault disturbance are observed joining in the assault on the individual observed being struck with the object. Security personnel that were outside on the sidewalk appeared to witness the assault and attempt to get And again, attempt to break the fight up. The group includes, including security, spill out onto Southbridge Street, where the physical assault continues. Members of the group involved in the assault on the in individual, reassemble on the sidewalk in front of the business and mill about. Security remains outside monitoring the group. This group then begins to move northbound on the sidewalk again. When they reach the end of the business Excuse me. When they reach the end of the front of the business, there appears to be another disturbance at around 2:06 a.m. Patrons and security are then observed running southbound on the sidewalk appearing shocked and scared. Security personnel run into the business by the front door and close the door behind them. Timing of the group running on the sidewalk matches the time gunfire was detected by the ShotSpotter system. At 2:07 hours, a.m., the the bartender that was observed outside on the sidewalk has now moved back inside the club. It appears that they place a call on the cellphone. Based on the time frame, it appears that the call they made was to the police reporting the incident. At 2:08, patrol officers arrive on scene, and render aid to the victim laying in the roadway. Officers arriving on scene also attempted to enter the business, but encountered an unstaffed front door that was locked. Officers are observed pounding on the door and announcing, "Police," before the door is open is opened and allowing them to enter. Video evidence recovered shows security personnel inside the business the door closed and locked, looking out the window of the door during the time of the verbal argument and both physical assaults. At no time did any security outside attempt to notify personnel inside the club to call the police, and no time was any call placed to the police department from the business regarding the physical assault or physical injury in involving the object that any reasonable person could assume would result in an injury. After reviewing vi- footage, video footage, I was able to count 62 person patrons leaving the business. The occupancy permit for a Hurricane Betty's is 49. This number leaving does not even include the four security personnel I observed outside the business on the sidewalk. There's another security individual observed on the video inside the business who is also the named manager on the license. Also not included are two bartenders, DJ, and numerous dancers working club that evening. All this indicates that the business was operating well in excess of their [cough] occupancy permit. [cough] I was also able to observe that from 1:0- 1:00 a.m. on, nine patrons that entered the club did not have their ID scanned, six patrons entered without going through the metal detector nor having their ID scanned, four individuals went through the metal detector which alerted, but did not receive any secondary frisk. I also observed one patron enter and walked through the metal detector. That was on They were then They then scanned their own ID. No security was present at the entrance at this time. While reviewing footage of the front entrance, I observed 10 indivi- individuals entered the club between 1:30 and 1:40. I observed five indiv- individuals enter the between 1:40 and 1:45. And I observed 11 individuals enter the club between 1:45 and 2:00, uh for a total I believe it was 62. 62 people entered between uh 1:30 and 2:00. I was also able to observe that between 1:46 and 1:54 hours, I observed two bartenders continuing to serve numerous patrons more than 20 alcoholic beverages in violation of rule one. Sales to cease at 1:45 a.m., or 15 minutes before the specified closing time. That is all I have.
[1:07:01] Counsel? I have no questions. We will stipulate to the observations made by Sergeant [inaudible]. Okay. Anyone present online have any questions or comments? Just come to that microphone, please. Right here Right in front of us, at the podium. Please tell us who you are and where you live.
[1:07:27] And I came up earlier. My name is Nisha Auberry. I'm the girlfriend of the victim that passed away on the 11th. And, um, I think his testimony speaks for itself. I think they were very negligent. I think I don't know if I can address them, but I think these people that run this club are disgusting. My son is four and wakes up every morning, and I have to keep explaining to my 4-year-old what heaven means and why his dad is not coming back from heaven. While you guys the next day, instead of closing down and maybe paying homage to the person that lost their life due to you guys' negligence, instead of just closing down and say, "Hey, you know what, we're not going to do this today. We just ruined a family's life." They opened up [laughter] the next day and had a grand old time, a grand old party while I went and lay on the ground outside because I was trying to smell my boyfriend's blood on the ground. So while y'all was inside having a good time, disgustingly, my family was grieving. And now, day after day after day, I have to keep telling my little boy what it means for heaven and why your daddy can't come pick you up in his truck no more, because he was a truck driver that worked 80 hours a week to make ends meet for me and my son. So that his family could call him, "Hey, you know, we need this," or "We want that." So now, I got to figure out what I have to do for me and my son's life while y'all are worrying about figuring out how are you going to close or open at 8:00 to 8:00? I got to worry about the next 60 Hopefully, I live that long. Hopefully, I don't run into people like these people that are negligent. I have to worry about the next 60-some odd days of my life worrying about how I'm going to make ends meet, because my provider, my lover, my protector, my son's father, is no longer here. So, I don't want anyone else in this world to have to go through what me and my family are going through because people's negligence, because people want to have a good time, people want to drink, and people want to see naked women. I I pray that you guys shut this down. Just I can't even keep up with half of the violations that he gave. I couldn't even keep count. So if they really learned their lesson from the last guy that lost his life and the last family whose life they destroyed, my life wouldn't be destroyed today. My life wouldn't be destroyed for the rest of my life. Clearly, they didn't learn their lesson, and there should not be another me, or another family of mine that has to go through this due to their negligence. I find you, again, I don't know if I can address them. I'm hearing people suck their teeth in the back of my head. You guys are disgusting. You guys are disgusting, and you have ruined my life. But, most importantly, you have ruined another little boy's life that's going to be in this world angry, wondering what happened to his father. You guys have ruined that! So, eff ruining in y'all's club. How about the lives that y'all have ruined, not just my son's, but his grandmother's, mine, his great-grandmothers, his aunts? How about that? You guys are worried about your You guys are poor money-wise and mentally. I'm On my way here, I was What does poor really mean? You can be poor without the money. I'm realizing you guys are poor without the money, cuz clearly, you couldn't afford to close down for the next 24 hours. And you guys are poor in the mind because it took the last time we came here for City Council to tell you guys that it will be morally correct for you guys to come up and give an give us an apology. You guys couldn't even do that without direction. So, clearly, you guys can't even follow direction. You have to get direction from somebody else to apologize for somebody whose life you ruined. And you guys are grown men. But want to control women swinging around a pole naked, but you can't even control your own minds! Figure it out. Please, shut them down. I don't want no other little boy, no other little girl in this world to have to deal with this. And the sad thing is, I live up the street from this club. And now, me and my son are misplaced due to the fact that I will never allow my son to even set eyes on this disgusting, negligent establishment. So now me and my son are misplaced due to you guys. So while you're sucking teeth in the back of your head, I'm going to be sucking my teeth for the rest of my life. For the rest of my life! And I hope when you hear my my my fiancé's name, when you hear the name of the person that died in 2022, when you hear the name of the person that got stabbed the year before that, I hope that makes you want to shut this establishment down. Because there's now that I know of three people whose lives are ruined, three families whose lives are ruined because of you three Black men. While y'all sitting here with your head, hold No, hold your head high! Hold your head high! Hold it high! The same way my man was outside holding his head high by himself when you guys snuck inside and was worried about everything else. He was outside with his head held high by himself! So all three y'all together, hold your head high! Hold it high!
[1:11:53] Thank you. Anyone else have any questions or comments? Hearing none, I think someone else is coming up.
[1:12:02] Is there someone else who wanted to say something? Ladies? I would like to say something. Somebody's online. To the chair, there's someone online. Yep, please go ahead. Please ident- Hi, my name is I'm sorry. Please identify yourself and where you live.
[1:12:17] My name is Kayla. I live in Worcester. I am speaking on behalf of my boyfriend, who could not be here. Um he is the brother of the person who was um injured. So good afternoon, um his name is Wevel Prentiss and he is speaking today on behalf of his brother, Steven Joseph, his family, and everyone whose lives have forever been impacted by what happened on October 11th at Hurricane Betty's, located at 350 Southbridge Street. I want to make our position very clear. We are formally requesting the immediate suspension of this establishment's licenses and immediate shutdown of its operations. This is not simply about a business violating a few licensing violate regulations. This is about public safety, accountability, and the responsibility that comes with operating an establishment that serves alcohol and welcomes members of our community. On October 11th, a shooting occurred at this establishment, resulting in the loss of his brother, Steven Joseph. And a family lost someone who they love. A life was taken. There are people who will carry the consequences of that night for the rest of their lives. Now we are here reviewing the violations reportedly identified by the licensing commission in connection with this incident. Two counts of failing to observe required clearance and closing times. These are violations of the establishment's operating requirements. Failure to notify police and assist injured individuals during a disturbance or breach of the peace. This raises serious questions about the establishment's response to an incident involving public safety and individuals in need of help. Failure of manager Failure of the manager to accept responsibility for violations or infractions of the law incurring at this establishment. Management has a responsibility to ensure that the business operates lawfully and safe safely. Unauthorized renovations or alterations without prior licensing commission approval. This demonstrates additional disregard for licensing requirements. Improper purchasing and sale of alcoholic beverages, including purchases of alcohol and prohibited small containers and selling alcohol for consumption off the premises. These are not minor concerns that should be brushed aside. They represent multiple areas of alleged noncompliance, involving operational oversight, management accountability, alcohol regulations, and public safety. We cannot ignore the circumstances surrounding October 11th. When they when an establishment is entrusted with serving the public, it also accepts the responsibility to maintain a safe environment, follow the law, and respond appropriately when a serious disturbance occurs. The allegations concerning the failure to notify police and assist injured individuals are particularly troubling in light of the shooting that occurred that night. We expect the commission to examine exactly what happened, and what actions were or were not taken, and whether the establishment fulfilled its legal responsibilities. A business license is not a privilege that should be protected at the expense of public safety. Our family should not have to repeatedly appear before this commission to explain why these circumstances deserve serious consequences. We should not have to keep asking for accountability while an establishment connected to such dead while an establishment connected to such devastating incidents continues to operate. Steven cannot come back. No suspension, fine, or licensing decision can undo what happened to him. But the commission does have the authority to take meaningful action to prevent further harm and demonstrate that the public safety matters more than keeping a business open. We are not asking for another warning. We are not asking for another slap on the wrist. We are not asking for another temporary premises promises that will improve. We are requesting the immediate suspension of all applicable licenses, the immediate closure of Hurricane Betty's, and the strongest disciplinary action permitted under the law, including permanent revocation where warranted. We ask that the commissioner consider every violation, the circumstances of October 11th, the establishments managed management responsibilities, and the safety of the surrounding community when making this decision. Steven deserves to be remembered as more than another name associated with a shooting at this establishment. He was someone's brother. He was someone's family. He was someone's father. He was someone's lover, and a person whose life mattered. His family deserves uh accountability. This community deserves to feel safe, and the commission has opportunity today to demonstrate that these responsibilities were taken seriously. Please do not allow this to become another incident that is discussed or talked about in this court, or documented and eventually forgotten. We are asking you to take action. We are asking you to put the public first versus this establishment. We are asking you to shut down this establishment immediately. Thank you.
[1:16:49] Thank you. Anyone else? All right, hearing no other test- I'm sorry? Do you Come on. [cough]
[1:17:02] Yes. Your name, and where you live, please? Good morning. [cough] My name is Alina Constant Joseph. I am the mother of the deceased. Um I just want to tell you a little bit about my son. So, my son was loved. He came from a two-parent household. Me and my husband was high school sweethearts. We married. We had four children. Steven was the oldest. He's a college graduate, Framingham State University. Um at two in 2009, he was able to meet um [laughter] President Obama because of his grades. He went to TechBoston Academy. Um he also maintained a CDL license and had several endorsements. So, the way that he passed away was disgusting. Um I worked hard, and he also worked hard. He had a family. He paid for everything. He was a solid soldier even to his demise, the way he fought for his life. And um the negligence of this club um and the fact that this is the second family, so um if the Commonwealth um can do something about this establishment, and um I I would not like for another family to feel this pain cuz I had to bury my son on the 24th. I never knew that a parent would have to bury their son, the firstborn. He walked, watched my daughter. My daughter is here today. He walked her to school. So, that's, you know, It's a a very sad situation, and we're dealing with it. My mom is here. Um [sigh] You know, that's her first grandchild and, you know, it's it's it's It's ugly, the fact that um Steven always wanted to stay in Massachusetts. He was born in New York, we moved to Massachusetts to have a better life, and he flourished in Massachusetts. And he stayed in Massachusetts as the others fled because the state of Massachusetts is so expensive. He was a young couple, him and his partner, and they decided to live in Worcester, couldn't afford to live in the Boston area. So, he's one of the students that stayed and actually graduated from Framingham State University, and he wanted to live in Massachusetts. And um he worked 70, 80 hours more taking multiple shifts um to secure his family. And um he was not a regular person. He's someone who worked, and he worked hard. And now um we have to raise his son, my grandson. Um his life partner will her life will always be empty. Um She's in a crisis at this time because um he he was the one who he [cough] he he paid everything, you know. Um he was a true
[1:20:00] a true man and the definition of what a man was. And um that day was lost when I got the call, and we're here today, and um again, thank you for um listening to um our definition of Stephen. And um, I would like to thank the detective, the sergeant, excuse me, for his tedious work and all of a mentioning all the violations, and I would like the Commonwealth to take all of that into consideration. And thank you.
[1:20:32] Thank you. Yeah, let let this board offer its condolences and uh nothing uh words could be said that can relieve all of the pain that you're all suffering because of this. But having heard the testimony Counselor, is there anything else you'd like to say before I make a decision here? If I could just say just briefly Absolutely. There is no disputing the tragedy of October 11th, and I I I've spoken to the people at Hurricane Betty's, people who've come here today. They're under no illusion this is a real, horrendous tragedy, and they It's It's not as if they're deaf to what is being said.
[1:21:13] Um they've been fully cooperative with police. They've been fully cooperative with the district attorney's office. I've spoken to the district attorney's office on this matter. They will continue to be fully cooperative as the grand jury proceeds. This is They're not offering testimony the observations of Sergeant Needham. There's no disputing it. Um There's no challenging the observations as to violation uh one, the two counts, rule 14, rule 17. No disputing. Um
[1:21:44] There's no disputing police should have been called earlier, rule 29. Um Looking back on it, obviously, I I I just point to the the record that there were members of security who came out, who tried to stop what it was a disturbance. They executed poorly. They made poor decisions. But when the shot was fired at 2:06, 911 was called at 2:07. And then I would also say in rule 37 as to the bottle service, no one's disputing that there was a bottle in the premises, but the there's no information to say that somebody an employee actually gave that bottle to anybody in the restaurant. And, again, none of that is to minimize the tragedy. None of it is to to somehow minimize what went on, but it is to say uh it's to recognize that Hurricane Betty's understands the gravity of the situation, is participating with law enforcement, is partake participating with this commission because it knows it has a responsibility. Um I've spoken um Oh, and and acknowledges exactly what we've already heard. 2022, 2024, this is not the first time before this commission, and Hurricane Betty's understands that.
[1:22:54] I've spoken to uh management at Hurricane Betty's. They understand the gravity of the situation. They're proposing a complete overhaul of security. They're proposing a complete reshuffling of management, in terms of retraining of management, completely new security, uh suggesting even or um having off out-of-company, out of business, outside security doing the security work for Hurricane Betty's, um suggesting those proposals as a way to move forward after a suspension um that this board will commission will um give. Um So, I would ask this commission to consider those changes, consider the involvement of Hurricane Betty's in the in the investigation, in the participation, and there's no minimizing the tragedy from Hurricane Betty's perspective on what transpired on October 11th.
[1:23:43] Thank you. Based upon the testimony of the police department in the investigation, based upon your comments to this board about uh accepting and by that what was said did take place, I find that the violations did occur. I make a motion that that the violations uh did occur. Second. Commissioner Cruz? Yes. Commissioner Fisher? Yes. Chair Vigliotti? Yes.
[1:24:10] Having said that, this is not the first time, and you you know Counselor, you know the record. You know that's a horrendous report. It's like in your face that nobody cares. It was just like the Wild West gone wild. Um Based upon that report, based upon previous history, based upon what's happened, uh I I I kind of accept what you're saying to me about reforming and changing and so forth. Based upon all of that,
[1:24:40] I make a motion to revoke the license. Second. Commissioner Cruz? Yes. Commissioner Fisher? Yes. Chair Vigliotti? Yes. To the chair, is that that entertainment and alcohol, correct? That is correct, both entertainment and alcohol revoked. Would the commission consider staying this decision until we had a chance to appeal to the ABCC? No. No. Sorry. No.
[1:25:04] No. My deepest condolences to the family um for this tragedy. I am so deeply sorry, because I know what it's like to lose someone like that. I am a grandmother. I am a mother. I have a son, and it's um I am just I have no words to, you know, that can give you comfort. I'm deeply sorry. Thank you for your service, Counselor. Thank you.
[1:25:36] Uh is there any um old business? Any new business? Motion to adjourn. I have some new business. Oh, new business. New business. I'd like to recognize Commissioner Vigliotti on the celebration of his birthday today. Well, thank you. Happy birthday. I came to work, though. Did you bring cake? No. Oh, well. My treat. I said to Debbie, my treat next meeting, the 12th, uh we're taking everybody out to lunch. My treat.
[1:26:06] Thank you. Thank you. Do we just finish the Yes. Second. Commissioner Cruz? Yes. Commissioner Fisher? Yes. Chair Vigliotti? Yes, okay. Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday. Happy birthday. Happy birthday to you. Much health. Everything else comes.
[1:26:27] Absolutely.