׉?4ׁB!בCטUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://XRsfkHiZk1b0qOBKnfUjkz1uB8lJIhSU73NkX4-g6DIWZ`'p׉ 7cassandra://8ZaL5nKAS0SmXnRNwexs_4N_ScWVYY4Se_8opUwhvLo͸Z`׉ 7cassandra://CD4bU0714xOOqyVGOYKtoSblhmRTHGWzSaaQ8fvGwBc8d`j,$IJ(Eנj,%IJ(E Ӂb9ׁHhttp://angelosoil.comׁ ׁ Јנj,%IJ(E  ̵ 9ׁHhttp://commonmoves.comׁ ׁ Ј׈Ej,#IJ(E׉EA DOUBLY GOOD GRADUATION T TWICE AS PROUD: Following last Friday night’s graduation ceremony at Saugus High School, Maryellen Lynch walked around Christie Serino Jr. Memorial Stadium, beaming as she wore a special t-shirt to honor her twin sons – Brennan and Sean – who were among the Class of 2026 graduates. Please see inside for more photos and coverage of the school’s 155th commencement exercises. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. 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Town Meeting 2026 Members complete final session in just under 30 minutes, passing a budget on a unanimous vote without dissent while making a major investment to improve education By Mark E. Vogler own Moderator Stephen Doherty said he was concerned that Monday night “might be a long one” when he looked out at the audience in the Town Hall auditorium before the fourth and final session of this year’s Annual Town Meeting. A large group of advocates for Saugus Public Schools had assembled for consideration of the town budget for the 2027 Fiscal Year that begins on July 1. A major item was a huge increase of nearly $3 million in School Department spending. People were poised to speak, if necessary, to argue for more money for Saugus Public Schools. “I was concerned it was going to be a long night,” Doherty said later. “But they were here to support and celebrate the actions they had achieved,” he said. Doherty was referring to the public campaign involving parents, schoolteachers and a group of new Town Meeting members to increase educational spending this year. Their efforts succeeded, as Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree in Congratulations Class of 2026 Graduates! Mid-grade Regular 3.98 4.45 4.95 $4.57 Full Service ULS $3.959 Order online at angelosoil.com Kerosene Now Available! Established 1978 late April announced his decision to increase his initial budget recommendation for Saugus Public Schools by $1.8 million. He decided to support the request of Schools Superintendent Michael Hashem to increase current school spending by $2.8 million. The Finance Committee voted to recommend the full amount. The town’s Fiscal 2027 operating budget of $126.4 million – including $37.6 million for the School Department – passed by a unanimous 47-0 roll call vote on Monday night in less than a half hour, and without dissent. Nobody from the audience or from the 50-member legislative chamber spoke for or against any item in the budget. The audience erupted in applause after the budget was approved, with Town Meeting members who lobbied for an increase in school spending and pro-education advocates congratulated each other. “I’ve been doing this for 14 years now and I don’t remember a budget passing as quickly,” Doherty told The Saugus TOWN MEETING | SEE PAGE 2 FLEET CARD Check Out Our LOW PRICES! ׉ 7cassandra://CD4bU0714xOOqyVGOYKtoSblhmRTHGWzSaaQ8fvGwBc8d`j,#IJ(E߁j,#IJ(Eށ rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://a0bQioY66Eayf9bG1lAgsJMmQ3JsgLjZlhQnjvbWzq4g`'p׉ 7cassandra://ctO2QlMyKgqUBwevWcPZHq8iJB33e9c0fNRdVMnp4uQͿQ`׉ 7cassandra://PkgEWlwfdPdXAGuxPXs0WPh_7HDlr2pHZZx89ZPKaDs7t`j,$IJ(EטUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://LheCdd-icmm5sOzqMYGTmJbY_UXKrizmJrSjzTMyKhoږ`'p׉ 7cassandra://M6Qbi7AE-fQLEgQt8E5Ov9JxcuawKxDMQnI0vKadqAMʹ`׉ 7cassandra://WkWy0LuR83m8SLOuegN19mIyv6naQglNuAb9i72Abtk7`j,$IJ(Eנj,%IJ(E[9ׁHhttp://WWW.SABATINO-INS.COMׁ ׁ Јנj,%IJ(E9ׁH mailto:lsimeonejr@simeonelaw.netׁ ׁ Ј׉E~Page 2 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 12, 2026 A time for honking horns, climbing trucks and taking hold of the wheel Mom’s Cancer Fighting Angels host their 7th annual Touch A Truck fundraiser By Joanie Allbee A midst threats of rain last Sunday (June 7), the Touch a Truck event rumbled on in the parking lot at Blessed SacTOWN MEETING | FROM PAGE 1 Advocate later. “We spent a lot of money this year,” the moderator continued. “And I think going forward, there’s going to be an expectation of results. People are going to want to see improvements in our school system,” he said. A Fire Department show of force While the mood was visibly upbeat and positive in the second floor auditorium after the final session of this year’s Annual Town Meeting, there was also some concern expressed for the town’s fiscal future. There was a strong turnout of members of Saugus Firefighters Local 1003, about two dozen firefighters, who were dressed in red t-shirts. Members stood in the back of the auditorium and on both sides. Saugus Fire Capt. William E. rament Church at 14 Summer St. in Saugus. From 2 to 5 p.m., visitors explored police cars, fire trucks, tractors and more. Friendly owners and crews encouraged visCross III, who is also a Precinct 8 Town Meeting member, wore a red t-shirt, too. He said the firefighters union members were there to demonstrate support for the Fire Department with a cautious outlook for the future. “Definitely, there’s a concern,” Cross said in an interview later. “There’s a concern if we keep on dipping into our free cash. We’re concerned about how things are going to be three years from now,” Cross said. Cross recalled the challenging days when budget cuts and fiscal problems forced the closure of the Essex Street Fire Station. “I remember those days. By 2004, we started spending money we didn’t have. In 2008, we had to close the Essex Street Fire Station,” Cross said. “Under Town Manager Scott Crabtree, we’ve come a long way since then. We’re still not there yet. But under Crabtree, we’re 100 times better,” he said. Cross said he had no doubts A QUICK NIGHT: The 2026 Annual Town Meeting during its final session on Monday night took about 29 minutes to approve the final five articles, including the 2027 Fiscal Year budget. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) that a substantial increase in school spending was passing this year. “There was just too much momentum,” Cross said. “And if the test scores go up, that’s great. I want the schools to do well. I’m rooting for Saugus,” he said. Joining the rank-and-file firefighters at Monday’s night session were Fire Chief Michael Newbury and Deputy Chief Thomas D’Eon Jr. A 2.5 percent water rate hike Among the five final articles to be considered Monday night itors to put their hands on all of the vehicles. Three-year-old Santino took the wheel of a tractor as he sat in his dad Anthony Vinciarelli’s lap. Fiveyear-old Nathan DeNicola, an aspiring future police officer, was thrilled to receive a police badge sticker and to be behind the wheel of a police cruiser. “Nathan loves to see all the police cars at Touch a Truck,” his dad Michael DeNicola said. Saugus Police Officer and Pink Patch Project Direct Representative DomenTOUCH A TRUCK | SEE PAGE 3 was a 2.5 percent increase in the water rates for Fiscal Year 2027. The Finance Committee recommended adoption of the lesser of three options presented in a report by the town’s longtime consultant, The Abrahams Group LLC. Under the plan approved by Town Meeting, the average residential user would pay $610 a year, an increase of $14 in their annual water bill. The average commercial user would pay $5,414 a year, a $132 hike. Town Meeting members voted by an overwhelming voice vote in support of the water rate hike. Precinct 6 Town Meeting Member Jeanie Bartolo was the only member expressing opposition. Town Meeting has approved six percent increases in the water rate in three of the previous four fiscal years. Members had passed a five percent increase for Fiscal Year 2024. This year, concerns over inaccurate water meter readings leading to excessive water bills and the installation of new water meters influenced the Board of Selectmen’s decision to keep sewer rates the same. With uncertainty over the impact of new water meters on user costs, selectmen unanimously approved a rare “zero percent increase” for the first time in many years. Well-attended sessions Members’ attendance at Town Meeting has surfaced as a major issue during recent town elections. Precinct 5 Town Meeting Member Mark Panetta was the lone member missing the fourth session Monday night. This year’s Town Meeting – which includes 15 new members – posted a 97 percent attendance record over the four nights. Forty-four of the 50 Town Meeting members had perfect attendance. Six members missed one meeting. All 15 newcomers attended every meeting. ׉ 7cassandra://PkgEWlwfdPdXAGuxPXs0WPh_7HDlr2pHZZx89ZPKaDs7t`j,#IJ(E׉E THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 12, 2026 Page 3 TOUCH A TRUCK | FROM PAGE 2 ic Montano and his wife Deanna greeted guests and answered questions about the Pink Patch Project car. Lawrence Police brought a pink Cancer Awareness car. Westford Police opened their cruisers for visitors to hop inside, and Melrose did a dog sniffing demonstration and brought a motorcycle. They welcomed people passing by to hop up on the bike for a memorable photo. Attendees savored foods from vendors as they walked around seeing what each exhibit offered. Brenda Moley and John Gilmore managed the raffle and information booth. Some booths offered coupons and freebies to take home. John Ragusa of the State Police Bomb Squad brought a highly trained Lab named Clue and a Boston Dynamics robotic dog named Spot. Ragusa gave mini demonstrations of dogs interacting with people and performing tasks. Cara Sartorelli showed off her restored 1986 Monte Carlo SS. “I just love being a part of a car show community,” Cara said Joe Tabbi, who was born at Saugus General Hospital, owner of the “ Lyghtn” car, was with his wife Donna, the owner of “ Phoenix” car. “I like doing the Touch A Truck and letting kids explore my jeep,” said Donna Tabbi. Chr is Thompson, of “Nightmare Jack Jeep,” loves doing things for the kids and displayed puppets and blow-up characters in and around his jeep. Kristi Bauters’ jeep “Horcrux” was next to Ste - phen Baker, who climbed a wheel over his friend Johnny Lowbed’s car “Pitcrw.” When asked why he did it, he mischievously grinned and replied “I like rocks.” Baker’s response drew laughter. Saugus Tiger Institute, an affiliate of Cervizzi’s MarHost and Hostess with Batman: Brenda and Guy Moley of Mom’s Cancer Fighting Angels took a moment to pose with Eddie Ardolino, who was dressed as Batman. (Photo Courtesy of Joanie Allbee) tial Arts Academy, stilled a crowd with their Taekwondo demonstrations. Owner and 6th degree black belt Sabumnim/Shihan Amy Amirault led the group of students in various forms in taekwondo. TOUCH A TRUCK | SEE PAGE 11 Saugus Police Officer and Pink Patch Project Direct Representative Domenic Montano and his wife Deanna had a busy day exhibiting the Pink Patch project car. (Photo courtesy of Joanie Allbee) Lawrence A. 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Looking elegant in white were Cadence Coburn and Samuel DeBaul. Shown from left to right: Alex Lewis, Audrey Comeau, Isabella D’Amico and Layla Rodriguez. 50 The guys, shown from left to right: Trey Riley, Nathan Soroko, Justin Bremberg, Lukas Fondulis and Hunter Arsenault. Shown from left to right: Marielle Zepeda, Rachel Braga, Joshua Mikalixen, Lucca Araujo, Agacha Gomez, Daniel Ganda, Nicole Salatiel, Shelby Janiris, Fiore Haro, Beatriz Rodrigues and Davi Rodrigues. Tara Dascoli and Alex Marquez (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) Spring is Here! 10 Everett Ave., Everett 617-389-3839 Celebrating 67 Years in Business! n Roofing fng ׉ 7cassandra://hrkDpAyDmGJLS_hycWWsvYYO_9WAPbmYWSjad_Fp7gU>`j,#IJ(E׉ETHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 12, 2026 Page 5 Saugus High School Seniors Celebrate Prom in Georgetown Victoria Silva Santos and her date, Christopher Runyon, in matching pink. Seniors did the electric slide. Cristian Dean and her date, Madison Carrillo Shown from left to right: Izzy Lewis, Sophia Cavalcante, Jayleah Contreras, high school guidance counselors Bethany Norton and Katie Pinette, and Alesha Bien-Aime. Jacqueline Mendez and her date, Edwin Perez, in matching green. “WE’RE STILL HERE!” Since 1947 MALDEN AUTO BODY Book online: Maldenauto.com Shown from left to right: Front row: Arrow Panico, Leah Festa and Sarah Nannini use props on the dance floor; back row: Heather Chamberlain and Kayla Manfredi. 49 Robin St., Everett, MA 617-389-3030 * Maldenab@yahoo.com Over 79 years of exceptional service! Blowing kisses were Layla Rodriguez (at left) and Natalie Justice. Massone Family Owned & Operated Checking that pays you $20 a month. 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School officials said the weather – in the mid-80s with a cool breeze – provided the commencement exercises with some of the most pleasant conditions in recent memory. This year’s ceremony was special for School Committee Chair Thomas Whittredge, whose son Brody was among the graduates receivGerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law Is Your Estate in Order? Do you have an update Will, Health Care Proxy or Power of Attorney? If Not, Please Call for a Free Consultation. 14 Proctor Avenue, Revere (781) 284-5657 J& • Reliable Mowing Service • Spring & Fall Cleanups • Mulch & Edging • Sod or Seed Lawns • Shrub Planting & Trimming • Water & Sewer Repairs Joe Pierotti, Jr. Director Evan Smith leads the SHS Tonal Chaos a cappella group in singing the National Anthem. S LANDSCAPE & MASONRY CO. 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At the outset of her commencement speech, Principal Scuzzarella remarked, “Someone once said ‘One of life’s most rewarding moments is seeing your parents smile because of something you’ve accomplished.’” “What do you say we make your parents smile – I would like my seniors to stand, see if you can find your family somewhere in this crowd – give them a wave, a smile, blow them a kiss – to thank them,” she said. “Without their love and support, you wouldn’t be sitting here.” Scuzzarella also asked graduating senior Braylon Ponce to stand up and remain standing so the Saugus High Class of 2026 could join her “in appreciating Braylon’s commitment and admiring his decision” to enlist in the United States Marine Corps. A SCOREBOARD SALUTE greets the graduating seniors. ׉ 7cassandra://s2NsR0NxjUn31620vTwoAh_GdiUvdddH0_uIKUJ0FHk<`j,#IJ(E׉ETHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 12, 2026 Page 7 155th Commencement Exercises Saugus High School Class of 2026 Zenera Shahu, the class Salutatorian, celebrated with her family. A TWINS CELEBRATION: The Lynch family had twice as much to celebrate last Friday. They had twins graduating together. From left to right are Sean, Francis, Maryellen and Brennan. Mrs. Lynch wore a special t-shirt for the occasion, displaying her sons’ baby photo. A CASCADE OF CAPS: At the end of the commencement exercises, the young graduates celebrated by flinging their caps skyward. THE MARSHALS: Callie Anderson and Eden Miniscalco, both Honor graduates, worked as a team to lead their class during the procession and the ceremony. CONGRATULATIONS, SON! Elizabeth and Thomas Whittredge waited to hug their son Brody after presenting him with his High School diploma. Director Chance Krause leads the Saugus High School Band in the processional selection “Pomp and Circumstance.” HIGH SCHOOL CLASS | SEE PAGE 11 CLASS PRESIDENT: Maria Clara Silva has presided over her class for four years. THE SALUTATORIAN: Zenera Shahu was the second top-ranked student in the graduating class. HEAD OF THE CLASS: Evelyne Meas, this year’s Valedictorian – the top-ranked student in the Saugus High School Class of 2026. SUMMER SERIES @ Suffolk Downs Thursday Nights at The Yard - 6PM 10 Suffolk Downs Boulevard, Revere 6/4/26 Honors graduate Sarah Anne Nannini and her parents, Domenic and Patty, were joined by a family relative, School Committee Member Joseph “Dennis” Gould. 6/11/26 6/18/26 6/25/26 Country Night Cornhole Tournament Makers and Music Backyard Olympics with Twisted Fate Putt Like a Pro ׉ 7cassandra://6arhHacE5ESQGLmelM4JsY1Fef3mIxxJbIBeVgW82I8<'`j,#IJ(Ej,#IJ(E rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://wV35fuy35LE_QAyLh7d4v-bD3ymBOSqp4V63T3pW14s-`'p׉ 7cassandra://rAaD5_iRceXb-UC_sf6BjnO1KxoQRVCNERO38IZP_1Q͹`׉ 7cassandra://8eUF0Jmf8UcznINwZVoQ_KP9ldCWpbfDmqruIPsopqk4`j,%IJ(EטUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://5F21qDPx1DPcJPgnMlWkuTaU_f2zQ77HLGKkDONS5AY t`'p׉ 7cassandra://2UhfZdVD5zfe-o5-lJxnndwl9jWXfvOlUxGysIsPVK0;`׉ 7cassandra://1PSftZMVMHu1Nam-74VZvROXbVBUyj3Y95xFMQB_7eY53`j,%IJ(Eנj,%IJ(E;̦9ׁHhttp://cLibrary.org/eventsׁ ׁ Јנj,%IJ(E9ׁHhttps://runtohomebase.org/ׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 12, 2026 The Sounds of Saugus By Mark E. Vogler Good morning, Saugus Breakheart Reservation strikes me as a great place to walk. And if you have been seriously considering reactivating or launching an effective walking program, tomorrow (Saturday, June 13) would be a great day to do it, and you might be joining a number of other Saugus residents who have the same walk-for-your-health objective. Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree’s Office has been promoting the first-ever Saugus Wellness Collective Walk, which is set to begin at 9 a.m. tomorrow at Breakheart Reservation. “The Saugus Wellness Collective organized this walk to promote healthy lifestyle choices while fostering a sense of community and support,” the town manager’s office said in a recent press release. “The walk will utilize the Healthy Heart Trail at Breakheart Reservation, which is a two-mile loop that has been recognized by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation as a premier route beneficial to cardiovascular health.” Highlights of the Saugus Wellness Collective Walk include: • Free T-shirts for registered walkers • Light refreshments • Live entertainment featuring Saugus Health Director John Fralick To secure your spot and a free T-shirt (while supplies last), please preregister for the walk by emailing Karli Brazis at kbrazis@saugus-ma.gov. “The walk for wellness at Breakheart Reservation is intended as a signature kickoff event for the Saugus Wellness Collective,” according to the Town Manager’s Office. “The Saugus Wellness Collective aims to raise awareness for mental health and substance use disorders, as well as to provide resources for residents seeking assistance in their recovery efforts. The Saugus Wellness A MEMORABLE GRADUATION: Last Friday night was special for Saugus School Committee Chair Thomas Whittredge and his family at the Saugus High School graduation. Joining Whittredge (left) and his wife, Elizabeth (far right), were their three sons – Noah, Brody (who graduated with this year’s class) and Cole. Noah, a freshman, plays in the band and performed at his brother’s graduation. Elizabeth is a Special Education teacher at the High School and attended as a faculty member. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler). Collective is excited about partnering with the community in the future.” Saugus United Parish Food Pantry The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry will be open today (Friday, June 12) from 9:30-11 a.m. at 50 Essex St. in the basement of Cliftondale Congregational Church. The food pantry welcomes all neighbors facing food insecurity on Friday mornings. Volunteers are also welcome. Please call the Food Pantry Office at 781-2332663 or go to the website (cliftondalecc.org) for details. This week’s “Shout Outs” We received this tribute from Precinct 6 Town Meeting Member Jeanie Bartolo: “This sad ‘Shout Out’ is for Joan Fowler, a Saugus legend. Joan was known and beloved by all of us who knew her. She was a decades long member of the Hammersmith Quilt Guild, a Town Meeting Member, Chairman of the Conservation Commission for many years, and was also on the Charter Commission. She was absolutely brilliant. She loved Saugus and volunteered her time for many years to make this town a better place. She was devoted to her son, daughter and granddaughters. You never saw Joan without her knitting needles. She will be missed by all of us who knew and loved her.” Town Meeting members observed a moment of silence at Monday night ’s meeting for Fowler, who died last Friday at the age of 86. Town Moderator Stephen Doherty described her as “a longtime Town Meeting member and volunteer.” Want to “Shout Out” a fellow Saugonian? This is an opportunity for our paper’s readers to single out – in a brief mention – remarkable acts or achievements by Saugus residents or an act of kindness or a nice gesture. Just send an email (mvoge@comcast.net) with a mention in the subject line of “An Extra Shout Out.” No more than a paragraph; anything longer might lend itself to a story and/or a photo. Countdown till Saugus celebrates America’s 250th Here’s an updated report from the Saugus 250th Celebration Committee: The Saugus 250th Celebration Committee is putting some of the final touches on the event. We have started to hear from precincts that will be submitting a patriotic decorative truck and hope to continue to hear from more in the next week or two! The committee will be doing a spot with SCTV that will have a lot of information on the event itself, so watch out for it! Again, Saugus has a rich history in its role in the Revolutionary War. We have a very hardworking committee; however, we need volunteers for the event! If you can help out on the 4th, overseeing children’s games, serving food, etc., let us know. America’s 250th Celebration is just weeks away! It will be observed locally at the Saugus Iron Works, Saturday, July 4th, noon to 4 p.m. There will be speeches by Parson Roby, General George Washington and reenactment of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. There will be entertainment, children’s games played back in the 1700s and an old-fashioned community get-together and BBQ! We are looking forward to the 10 precincts entering a patriotic decorated vehicle! Join us for a fun-filled historical event celebrating our Founding Fathers who created our country’s democratic form of government. The time is coming up quickly, and we heard from Precincts 2 and 4 on submitting a vehicle. We’d like to hear from the other eight precincts on submitting a patriotic decorated vehicle. If you are going to submit one, please let us know no later than June 20. Several of our volunteers did an informational spot on SCTV for the celebration; it was great and we can’t wait for everyone to see it. Thank you, John, Michelle and Maureen! If you want more information or have questions, email ccriley@comcast.net. Yard sale at St. Johns tomorrow St. John’s Episcopal Church will be hosting a yard sale tomorrow (Saturday, June 13) from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 8 Prospect St., right around the corner from the Saugus Ironworks National Historic Site. For details, please call 781-233-1242 or 617-2409003. Elks to hold Narcan program June 15 THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 9 ׉ 7cassandra://8eUF0Jmf8UcznINwZVoQ_KP9ldCWpbfDmqruIPsopqk4`j,#IJ(E׉ETHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 12, 2026 Page 9 SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 8 The Saugus-Everett Elks Drug Awareness Committee is holding a Narcan presentation at the Saugus Senior Center on Monday, June 15, at 10 a.m., at 466 Central St. in Saugus. This is an hourlong free event. Drug overdose is the leading cause of death in the United States. Witness the benefits of Narcan and its many uses. Samples will be shown to all present. Don’t miss out on this event. Light refreshments will be served. 20 Strawberry Festival June A note from Laura Eisener: The Saugus Historical Society Strawberry Festival and Saugus Garden Club Plant Sale will be Saturday, June 20. Strawberry Shortcakes, hot dogs, soda, and chips will be available at the Legion Hall from 10-2, and the Garden Club as well as several craft vendors will be set up on the Roby School Lawn as usual. There are some new vendors planning to come in addition to several vendors who have been there for several years in a row. The festival is Rain or Shine! Hope to see you there for this popular town tradition. Home Base on June 20 On Saturday, June 20, Team Marshalls4Vets and Staff Sergeant Arthur F. DeFranzo VFW Post 2346 will be cosponsoring a Fundraiser Party Benefiting Home Base from 7 p.m.-1 a.m. at the Post. Tickets will be $50 per person with a limit of 100. Catering will be provided by Kowloon, Texas Roadhouse and other local restaurants. There will be prize Raffles, 50/50 raffle & more. Home Base, a Red Sox Foundation and Massachusetts General Hospital Program, is dedicated to healing the invisible wounds for Veterans, Service Members and their Families through world-class clinical care, wellness, education and research. To donate online: https://runtohomebase.org/ support/#marshalls4vets. KOC Crafts fair Aug. 8 The Saugus Knights of CoSERVING HIS COUNTRY: Braylon Ponce stood up at the request of High School Associate Principal Carla Scuzzarella at last Friday’s Saugus High School graduation ceremony. He will be joining the United States Marines, and the principal wanted the graduate to receive public recognition for his decision to enlist in the Marines. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) lumbus No. 1829 will host a crafts fair Saturday, Aug. 8, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 57 Appleton St. in Saugus: baked goods, candles, handmade textiles, jewelry, wood carving and much more. Visitors can also enjoy making their own sundaes, or popcorn, hot dogs, hot coffee and donuts and raffles. Upcoming events at the Saugus Public Library Here are some programs worth checking out at the Saugus Public Library: • Join WCVB-TV and Chronicle’s own Ted Reinstein for his presentation of “Greetings from Breed’s Hill and Other Stories of Fact & Folklore for the 250th.” The event is set for June 18 from 6 to 7:45 p.m. in the Community Room of the Saugus Public Library (295 Central St., Saugus). As America commemorates and celebrates its 250th Anniversary, Ted Reinstein looks back. Way back. Even years before independence was actually achieved, events took place that would shape how the new nation would look back at its founding. Paul Revere’s ride? One of the most momentous nights in U.S. history. And, like any big night, there was a bill. And America’s first expense report. Who knew? (The first bean counters even tried to stiff Revere!). While many New Englanders pride themselves on knowing the difference between Bunker and Breed’s Hill, few know that the bad blood over this historical inaccuracy continues — meet Jed Breed, thirteenth-generation direct descendant of the Boston farmer whose name should be in the history books, not an answer in “Trivial Pursuit.” Find out why Concord and Lexington are still doing battle — not with the British, but each other. Visit historic Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, and find the one headstone the British used for target practice — and why. All drawn from Ted Reinstein’s nearly three decades of reporting around New England, these stories and more are crafted into an entertaining talk. If you like history, enjoy learning a story behind the story or just want a good laugh along with your 250th — ”Greetings from Bunker Hill!” There will be time for Ted to answer questions from the audience. Seating is limited. Registration is required. Register online at https://SaugusPublicLibrary.org/events or call 781-231-4168 ext. 3106. This event is sponsored by the New Friends of the Saugus Public Library. • See Jonah Knight perform a magic show and facilitate a Dungeons and Dragons game! Please join us on Monday, June 22, at 4 p.m. in the Brooks Room. Suitable for 5th grade and up; registration required. SAVE Annual Meeting June 16 Saugus Action Volunteers for the Environment will hold its 53rd Annual Meeting & Dinner on June 16 at 7 p.m. at Magia’s Restaurant & Bar (126 Newbury St., Danvers). A social time will be held at 6:30 p.m. The program will feature a brief business meeting, stewardship award, guest speaker, raffles and an update on SAVE activities. The guest speaker will be Kirstie Pecci, Executive Director of Just Zero, a national zero waste, nonprofit organization, who will be presenting on the topic “Massachusetts: Time to Change our Solid Waste System.” The Dinner Buffet will include fresh garden salad, penne with pomodoro, baked haddock, chicken parmigiana, vegetable, rolls and butter, dessert, coffee and tea. Free parking is available on-site, and the facility is ADA accessible. SAVE was founded in 1973 to promote a better quality of life in Saugus through environmental concern and action. Summer Track Camp 2026 coming up The Saugus Sachems Youth Summer Track Camp 2026 is coming up. This vibrant program, now in its 21st year, is where student athletes from a wide range of ages come together to listen well, work hard and have fun! They will be guided by veteran coach Christopher Tarantino, his coaches, counselors and alumni, as well as current middle and high school track team members. Participants work on social and team building skills, as well as setting individual and team goals, all while learning the fundamentals and/ A TRIBUTE TO JOAN FOWLER: The late Joan Fowler, a Saugus resident since 1968, passed away last Friday (June 5) at age 86. She earned the reputation as an active participant in local government and a dedicated volunteer. The Board of Selectmen honored her last fall with a Citation that recognized her 22 years on the Conservation Commission and a decade of service as a Town Meeting member. “You truly exemplify what it is to give back to the community,” said Selectman Jeff Cicolini. “Truly remarkable.” (Saugus Advocate file photo by Mark E. Vogler) or the advanced techniques of this dynamic sport, track and field. Cost: $350 first year, returning $300, $250 if 4th+ year in summer program; includes pasta dinner, t-shirt, uniform and entry into Summer Showdown. Subtract $50 from cost if returning with uniform. For any questions, further information or to register, please contact Coach Christopher Tarantino (Coach T) at 781-854-6778 or christophertarantino24@gmail. com. Here’s what parents and participants need to know: Who: five to 18 years old. Where: Belmonte Track. When: 6-8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. June 22–26 – final registration week/returning athlete THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 10 ׉ 7cassandra://1PSftZMVMHu1Nam-74VZvROXbVBUyj3Y95xFMQB_7eY53`j,#IJ(Ej,#IJ(E rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://d42PvIb0m3Oz6UdlFx6sZAq8E7Nn_qIZi_hzCjir6Y0 ?T`'p׉ 7cassandra://Whagf2VQP35M_h9_nokVTlQqBWEt9V3YdzqpEJvxOlQ;[`׉ 7cassandra://KpIr41RzQnIvOCvfE_ldPRWT0dwi8-Ht91FTsT_vapg3`j,%IJ(E טUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://K-sQpvsj8lkLEIGa13nBCdQoeeeGQH3KXezKTJjAtq4|`'p׉ 7cassandra://Nbjv3dMk5FRbD28TEZSJjp-uR2oHpg9i_6FzjussR20͹;`׉ 7cassandra://jBA3ghr17BBUJ6ALjYhs5z-5kErkn3TJ-BN25uJCNP08`j,%IJ(E נj,&IJ(E ,̒9ׁHhttp://www.thewarrengroup.comׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 12, 2026 SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 9 Trusts and Second Marriages A key part of today’s estate planning often involves the use of Trusts in order to provide for a surviving spouse in a second marriage and the children of a decedent from a previous marriage. If all of the assets of the decedent spouse are simply left to the surviving spouse of the second marriage, there exists the possibility that the surviving spouse will simply leave all of the assets he or she receives to her own biological children, thereby disinheriting the decedent’s biological children. If the married couple agrees to execute a joint revocable Trust, upon the first spouse to die, the Trust will then become irrevocable. Alternatively, an irrevocable Trust could be executed from the start. In either case, provision within the Trust can provide for the right of the surviving spouse to receive income generated from the Trust, or the right to use, occupy and possess real estate constituting the principal residence, for example. The Settlor(s) of such a Trust can provide for a child of the decedent spouse to serve as a Co-Trustee with the second spouse upon the death of the first spouse to die. In this event, there is at least a check on whether or not income distributions and principal distributions for health and welfare are not inappropriate. This might apply if the two individuals executing the Trust are not absolutely sure that the surviving spouse will not disinherit the decedent’s biological children and will in fact follow the terms of the Trust and the parties’ original intentions. Also, in a first marriage situtraining. June 29–July 3 – first formal week. July 6–9 – second formal week. July 10 – 10 a.m.-12 p.m. – makeup practice (if necessary). July 10 – 6 p.m. – Pasta Dinner at Prince Pizzeria. July 11 – 9 a.m. – in-house meet at Serino Stadium. July 13 – 16 – retrain week. July 18 – Summer Showdown in Cranston, R.I. July 22 – wrap up. Veterans Day Bricks Proation with all of the children being of the marriage, inserting a testamentary special power of appointment provision in the Trust allows the surviving spouse to exercise this power of appointment via his or her Last Will and Testament in order to reallocate the remaining assets in the Trust upon his or her death. For example, if the surviving spouse felt that one child needed a larger share of the Trust assets in order to survive financially, that child would receive a larger share of the Trust assets than he or she was entitled to pursuant to the terms of the Trust. This special power of appointment provision may be entirely inappropriate when dealing with a second marriage. The reason is that the power could be exercised by the surviving spouse to leave assets to his or her own children and thereby leaving out the children of the deceased spouse of this second marriage. Every family and marriage is different. Only after discussing all of the issues and family dynamics in a second marriage context can you arrive at the optimum set of Trust documents that will best meet your objectives. Joseph D. Cataldo is an estate planning/elder law attorney, Certified Public Accountant, Certified Financial Planner, AICPA Personal Financial Specialist and holds a masters degree in taxation. gram is back The Saugus Veterans Council is pleased to reinstate the Brick Program! After our vendor retired last year (thank you, Del from Pavlok, for working with us over the years), we have found another engraver, who will be taking our orders for Veterans Day! Proceeds from the brick sales are devoted to the upkeep of Saugus Veterans Park. If you are interested in purchasing a brick, a 4x8” will be $100 (three lines) and an 8x8” (five lines) is $200. Please contact Corinne Riley (781-231-7995) for an application or more information. All orders must be in no later than Sept. 10. Savvy Senior by Jim Miller Still Working at 65? Here’s How to Handle Medicare Dear Savvy Senior, My wife and I are approaching 65, but I’m still working and have good health coverage through my employer. Do we need to enroll in Medicare at this point? — Almost 65 Dear Almost, If you or your spouse is still working past age 65 and have health insurance through your job, you may be able to delay enrolling in Medicare without a late enrollment penalty. However, the rules depend largely on the size of your employer. First, a quick refresher: Remember that original Medicare has two parts. Part A, which covers hospital care and is premium-free for most people. And Part B, which covers doctor visits, lab tests, and outpatient care and has a monthly premium of $202.90 in 2026. Higher-income individuals (over $109,000) and couples (over $218,000) pay more. If you’re already receiving Social Security, you’ll automatically be enrolled in Parts A and B when you turn 65, and your Medicare card will arrive in the mail. It will include instructions on how to return it if you have employer coverage that allows you to delay Part B. If you’re still working Start by talking with your benefits manager or HR department to understand how your employer insurance works with Medicare. In most cases, it makes sense to enroll in Part A since it’s free. However, if you contribute to a Health Savings Account, enrolling in Part A will stop those contributions. Whether you should enroll in Part B usually depends on your employer’s size. Small employer If your employer has fewer SAVE THE DATE! Saugus will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on Saturday, July 4th, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site. Please read “The Sounds of Saugus” for more details. (Courtesy graphic to The Saugus Advocate) than 20 employees, Medicare becomes your primary insurance. In this case, you should enroll in Part B during your Initial Enrollment Period, which lasts seven months: the three months before your 65th birthday, your birthday month, and the three months after. If you aren’t receiving Social Security, you’ll need to apply for Medicare. You can do this online at ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up, by phone at 800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. If you miss your Initial Enrollment Period, you’ll need to wait for the General Enrollment Period, which runs January 1 through March 31. Coverage begins the first day of the month after you enroll, but a 10 percent penalty is added to your Part B premium for each full year you waited. Signing up on time helps you avoid both coverage gaps and added costs. Large employer If your employer has 20 or more employees, your group health plan remains your primary insurance while you’re actively working. In this case, you generally don’t need to enroll in Part B at 65 if your coverage is adequate. If you do enroll, Medicare will serve as secondary coverage. Once your employment or employer coverage ends, you’ll have an eight-month Special Enrollment Period to sign up for Part B without penalty. Check drug coverage You should also review your prescription drug coverage. Ask your benefits manager if your employer’s plan is considered “creditable.” If it is, you don’t need to enroll in a Medicare Part D plan. If it isn’t, you should sign up for Part D during your Initial Enrollment Period to avoid a penalty – typically 1 percent of the national average premium for each month you delay. You can compare Part D plans at medicare.gov/plan-compare. Need help? For free guidance, contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program at 877-8392675 or shiphelp.org. You can also call the Medicare Rights Center helpline at 800-3334114. Navigating Medicare while you’re still working can be confusing, but a quick check with your employer and a clear understanding of the rules can help you avoid costly mistakes. Taking the time to get it right now will ensure you have the coverage you need, without unnecessary penalties down the road. Send your questions or comments to questions@savvysenior.org, or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070. ׉ 7cassandra://KpIr41RzQnIvOCvfE_ldPRWT0dwi8-Ht91FTsT_vapg3`j,#IJ(E׉E THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 12, 2026 Page 11 REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS Copyrighted material previously published in Banker & Tradesman/The Commercial Record, a weekly trade newspaper. It is reprinted with permission from the publisher, The Warren Group. For a searchable database of real estate transactions and property information visit: www.thewarrengroup.com. BUYER1 Anderson, Ellen Baker, Brendan Bozek, Julie L Garcia-Lopez, Aureliano G Le, Huyen My Morais, Valquiria A Salemi, Jamie Marie BUYER2 Mcgrall, Andrew SELLER1 Helmar, Ian Hotz Ft Manni Marie L Est Contreras, Luznel A Mendez Vega, Ismael A Lopez Webster Ft Fazzolari, Joseph Banh, Thuan N Silveira, Edson HIGH SCHOOL CLASS | FROM PAGE 7 SAVORING THE MOMENT: 2026 Class Valedictorian Evelyne Meas celebrated with her family after last Friday night’s graduation ceremony. TOUCH A TRUCK | FROM PAGE 3 The students were breaking boards with hands, feet and knees kicks. On an overcast day when it could have rained at any minute, the event raised $760 for the American Cancer Society. Guy Moley was thrilled with the day’s fund-raising results, hailing it as a success. “Thanks to our Saugus Vendors, D.P.W., Saugus Police and neighboring Police, the Saugus Fire Department, Sponsor Winn Realty, Throne King, anonymous donations, volunteers and wonderful contributors, excellent demonstrations and the Blessed Sacrament Church. Touch A Truck was able to give 100% of the money raised to the American Cancer Society. Thank you for making it a great success,” he said. MORTARBOARD ARTWORK: Sandeepan Shrestha wore an unforgettable hat decoration for his graduation. Donna Tabbi stands beside the jeep she custom designed, “Phoenix.” She enjoys the car shows with her husband Joe Tabbi of “Lyghtn.” (Photo courtesy of Joanie Allbee) THE RECEPTION COMMITTEE: High School Associate Principal Carla Scuzzarella and Saugus Public Schools Superintendent Michael Hashem got to congratulate each of the new graduates. Nathan Gutierrez used his knee to break a board during Touch a Truck’s Tiger Institute Taekwondo demonstration. (Photo courtesy of Joanie Allbee) William E Wholley Irt Ciampa, Marco A SELLER2 Helmar, Kristin Hotz, Eileen F Burr, Lisa Schlipp, Kimberly A Murray, Janel A Agudelo, Wilson Emilio Agudelo, Daniela Yvonne Properties LLC Pane, Kelly ADDRESS 20 Pleasant St 24 Hanson Rd 141 Essex St #B-1 287 Main St 1302 Lewis O Gray Dr #1302 82 Water St 63 Jasper St 2 Yvonne Dr 9 Thomas St #C-7 CITY Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus DATE 05.22.26 05.20.26 05.20.26 05.19.26 05.20.26 05.18.26 05.19.26 05.22.26 05.18.26 PRICE 830000 518500 350000 635000 569000 780000 612000 1150000 435000 ׉ 7cassandra://jBA3ghr17BBUJ6ALjYhs5z-5kErkn3TJ-BN25uJCNP08`j,#IJ(Ej,#IJ(E rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://MXruN4A3fwIlHw1fPsIZvKEH9yyKtKe-seSYH73525A`'p׉ 7cassandra://-nVbQkij-OjSc_EHV5_5Qo8P1ClhjgId58oaPmPscZwͻE`׉ 7cassandra://QHIzgIHQB_ZEp-ZbcHlqPB8UK9apLe3jVWarnpO5GnY7`j,&IJ(EטUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://KnnPPp9EICFoQyWbKpE2x0_UbgmAhrrPIzEl3IAqyZc`'p׉ 7cassandra://moETbdUYYYfkzno4UtwN4LHE5gY_1A4UpRaJcJ8Le6E#`׉ 7cassandra://wwbxIlun-KQfekV3nQrnW9NQxbIbesS1Qv9PKtL-Lbs