׉?4ׁB!בCט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://oq11PcXbLDbX6yPty56udrD0tx0R97o3fAegHK3AUqc\`)׉ 7cassandra://6Gdmqv1l0boCRe6GPuHtub2mgwVOtqcNFoNyIRgO50k͡\`J׉ 7cassandra://QrBE5aXEQxaAx0eTs-rQLe-TErA6XfixRU6266t2e1o1\`̰׉ 7cassandra://D_ML76j1IzFMz5E7I5RM3tkpqG5CiCnrA84ObUEfc04t͠cH$s7ݔנcH$s7 ہf 9ׁHhttp://www.angelosoil.comׁ ׁ ЈנcH$s79ׁHhttp://www.advocatenews.netׁ ׁ ЈנcH$s7@|9ׁHhttp://www.advocatenews.netׁ ׁ ЈנcH$s7@n9ׁHhttp://www.advocatenews.neׁ ׁ Ј׈EcH$s7׉EOSAUGUS Advocate Online at: www.advocatenews.ne Advocate Online at: www.advocatenews.net Vol. 25, No. 4 -FREE- www.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday 781-233-4446 Friday, January 27, 2023 SAUGUS OVER COFFEE Under Investigation Superintendent Erin McMahon is on paid administrative leave pending results of probe into allegations of misconduct By Mark E. Vogler S augus Public Schools Superintendent Erin McMahon went on paid administrative leave last week as the School Department launched an investigation into unspecifi ed allegations of misconduct. There were reports earlier in the week — which offi cials refused to comment on — that McMahon had been relieved of her duties. It wasn’t until last Thursday (Jan. 19) night’s meeting — after the committee members emerged from an Executive Session — that Committee Chair Vincent Serino read a brief statement confi rming that McMahon stepped aside indefinitely and that some kind of investigation was underway. The agenda posted for the Jan. 19 meeting listed an Executive Session for a) contract negotiations and b) to discuss strategy with respect to pending litigation. But there was no mention of the superintendent on the agenda. “After consultation with legal counsel, the Saugus School Committee has accepted Superintendent Erin McMahon’s agreed upon paid administrative leave,” Serino said. “This is a personal matter, and as such will be handled with appropriate due diligence, confi dentiality and professionalism. Actions taken toUNDER INVESTIGATION | SEE PAGE6 Staying the Course in Saugus Town Meeting Member Mark Bell is shown relaxing after an interview last weekend. He is one of several Precinct 1 Town Meeting members who are expected to share their views on top issues aff ecting their precinct during the fi rst in a series of public forums set to begin on Monday, Jan. 30, at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room of the Saugus Public Library. Please see inside for this week’s “The Advocate Asks” and to learn more about “Saugus Over Coff ee.” (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) ~ Home of the Week ~ SAUGUS.....3 room, 1 bedroom Condo at Austin Court featuring nice, eat-in kitchen with oak cabinets, some with glass fronts, updated Formica counters, great open concept living room, hardwood       with two closets, slider to balcony overlooking inground pool, full tile bath and hall closet, freshly painted interior, windows and slider have been updated, lovely landscaped grounds and outside grilling area, common laundry in building.          of         rig f smartpho Vieww thhee interior y fthis home ght on yo our hone. Selectmen reward Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree with a 2-year contract extension that will keep him in charge of town government through August 2027 By Mark E. Vogler S cott C. Crabtree was already Saugus’s longest serving town manager, and his current contract extension wasn’t due to expire until Aug. 24, 2025 — about two years and seven months from now. But selectmen voted unanimously last week (Jan. 19) to give him a two-year extension on top of that, which would keep him in charge of running town government through Aug. 24, 2027. STAYING THE COURSE | SEE PAGE8 ANGELO’S FULL SERVICE 1978-2023 Celebrating 45 Years in Business! 7 Regular Unleaded $3.199 MidUnleaded $3.979 Super $4.099 Diesel Fuel $4.649 KERO By Container Only Heating Oil at the Pump DEF $4.759 HEATING OIL 24-Hour Burner Service Call for Current Price! (125—gallon minimum) DEF Available by Pump! Open an account and order online at: www.angelosoil.com (781) 231-3500 (781) 231-3003 367 LINCOLN A  A Sun. 9AM-5PM Prices subject to change Ask about our Heating Oil Condicioner! 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And what will it take for developers to become part of that revitalization, with perhaps an anchor store or restaurant that draws people down into the square? Precinct 2 Town Meeting $4.20 GALLON We accept: MasterCard * Visa * & Discover Price Subject to Change without notice 100 Gal. Min. 24 Hr. Service 781-286-2602 Member Joe Vecchione — the driving force behind the most recent Cliftondale revitalization eff ort since getting fi rst elected to Town Meeting in 2019 — and about 20 other Saugus residents who joined him on a two-hour-and-15-minute-long “Zoom” Meeting on Cliftondale Zoning on Wednesday (Jan. 25) explored those questions. “I have the chops to write the article and I can mold it to the wishes of Town Meeting members,” Vecchione told the videoconferencing audience as he led a wide-ranging discussion on the logistics and components of an article he plans to submit to this year’s Annual Town Meeting that would create a zoning overlay in the Cliftondale District. “At the end of the day, we have to create a bylaw that’s implemental — not just a symbol,” he said. Vecchione, a lifelong resident of Cliftondale, has the planning expertise to author or do some major drafting of a zoning article for Cliftondale. But he wants to seek input from the Town Meeting members who will be voting on the zoning proposal that he’s targeting for the spring. A collaborative eff ort in which he reaches out to every Town Meeting member is the only way it will pass, he said. Ten of the 50 members of the Annual Town Meeting and three selectmen were among those participating in the “Zoom” meeting. Vecchione plans other sessions — including an in-person meeting for next month — as he reaches out to his colleagues. “It’s clear there is disagreement in how we get to the solution,” Vecchione told the group. “We have to find a common ground,” he added. Precinct 2 Town Meeting Member Christopher Riley said he believes that the developer’s perspective was missing from the discussion. “Let’s get people who know what they’re talking about to participate,” Riley said. Board of Selectmen Chair Anthony Cogliano and several other speakers were critical of the town’s dealings with developers. He suggested that Vecchione invite Kevin Procopio, a successful developer who was frustrated working in Saugus, to a future meeting. “I don’t know one developer in Saugus who is happy developing in town,” Cogliano said. Precinct 10 Town Meeting Peter Manoogian countered, “I don’t know many residents who are happy with the developers.” “I think we need to do a better job as a community, making sure that we get what we want,” Manoogian said. “I’m not happy with the way Hilltop looks; I’m not happy with the way Essex Landing looks,” he said of two major developments along the town’s Route 1 corridor. But he also said later in the discussion that it is important to include developers in the discussion about the revitalization of Cliftondale. Precinct 2 Town Meeting Member Peter A. Rossetti Jr., whose family has owned an insurance business in Cliftondale for years, said he knew a developer who left Saugus because of diffi culty he had working with the town. “We have a Planning Department that hasn’t gone out and worked with people,” Rosetti said. “Why isn’t our Planning Department more involved in this? That would be my question,” he said. Board of Selectmen Vice Chair Debra Panetta said she is disappointed that property owners weren’t more involved. “We can incentivize all we want, but I’m not sure the property owners are engaged,” she said. But Panetta noted that she believes the town has done more work in Cliftondale in the past year than the last hundred years. Jeannie Meredith and others expressed concerns about the character of Cliftondale being ruined by high-rise apartments. “Everyone is telling me they don’t want to see more apartments,” Meredith said. “Cliftondale is just not the area for it,” she said. But in order to attract developers to the area, any zoning would have to accommodate mixed use involving some apartments, others said. Housing is defi nitely a component of revitalization eff orts, according to Vecchione. He noted that aff ordable housing should be a component of any zoning measure. Vecchione said that Saugus is one of a handful of communities deficient in the percentage of aff ordable housing and needs to do something before the state intervenes. “I’m concerned that we’re going to lose our ability to plan our future,” he said. “I don’t want to see this area clogged up with housing that doesn’t fi t in the area,” Manoogian said. Precinct 9 Member Dan Kelly said he thinks the Post Offi ce is taking up too much space in Cliftondale and should probably relocate. “If you don’t get somebody to come in with an anchor store, I don’t think you are going to see any change down there,” Kelly said. Snow Much Fun BROTHERS AT WORK: Pictured from left to right: Franco, 1, Jack, 4, and Michael Procopio, 6, built this snowman in Lynnhurst. Michael attends the Veterans Early Learning Center. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) ׉ 7cassandra://gdmz4x9fi3T0ioY_m7X0APv7O6isgNMsPIDUjF9uLwA-`̰cH$s7׉ETHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JANUARY 27, 2023 Page 3 $32.8 million school plan on hold School Committee postpones discussion of the superintendent’s proposed budget for the 2024 Fiscal Year By Mark E. Vogler long in our school community.” T he School Committee tabled discussion and a potential vote last week (Jan. 19) on Superintendent Erin McMahon’s proposed $32.8 million budget for the 2024 Fiscal Year. Had the board proceeded with the hearing that was scheduled on the budget for the Fiscal Year that begins July 1, the superintendent would not have been available to explain it. Earlier in the meeting, School Committee Chair Vincent Serino announced that McMahon had agreed to being placed on paid administrative leave, pending the outcome of an investigation into alleged misconduct (See related story). But the discussion and vote on the proposed budget was apparently delayed because of discussions that school officials had with town officials earlier in the day. School Committee Vice Chair John Hatch told colleagues he was not prepared to vote on the budget based on the new information he had learned. School Committee Member Ryan Fisher made the motion to table the budget hearing, committee discussion and vote. Committee members voted 5-0 to table discussion of the school budget-related agenda items. McMahon’s budget request is a $2.5 million increase over the School Department’s current $30.3 million appropriation. In the budget message she presented earlier this month, McMahon noted the budget “continues to support a vision for the Saugus Public Schools that will allow our students to grow, learn and feel like they be“We will carry out this vision by accelerating, not remediating through the use of high-quality curriculum and educational materials; attracting, developing, and retaining high-performing staff; and ensuring our students feel safe and secure by providing additional social, emotional and cultural support,” the superintendent said. “Through this vision, our ‘moon shot’ is to move Saugus from the bottom 10 percent of districts in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to the top 10 percent in the next four years.” McMahon cited these as her budget priorities: • Priority Number One: “Compensating our educators for their skills, expertise and dedication.” The superintendent said Saugus paraprofessionals and teachers are currently among the lowest paid educators in the region. The median teacher salary among North Shore communities is $85,014 compared to $78,350 in Saugus. In order to retain and attract high quality teachers to Saugus, “we must close the compensation gap,” McMahon said. She proposed setting aside a reserve of close to $500,000 for contract negotiations among three collective bargaining units. • Second Priority: “Staffi ng our schools to serve the changing needs in Saugus. Research shows us that students excel when they have educators who refl ect their own cultures.” The superintendent noted that 27 percent of students spoke a fi rst language other than English last year, compared to 16 percent back in 2017. “To ensure we are meeting the needs of all our students, we plan to hire four English Language Learner teachers, one for each school level, and improve communication services for our families,” she said. • Third Priority: “Creating a robust program of studies so that students are attracted to and remain in Saugus Public Schools, Prekindergarten through Graduation.” Saugus Public Schools needs to respond to increases in student enrollment at the Veterans Early Learning Center and the Belmonte STEAM Academy. She noted that the Early Learning Center has a single administrator for more than 500 students, one school adjustment counselor and no librarian. “Proper staffi ng for the VELC means making sure teachers get the support they need so that students learn to read and write on grade level,” the superintendent said. The consolidation of the four neighborhood elementary schools had its greatest impact on Belmonte STEAM Academy students, according to McMahon. The school has grown to exceed 800 students this year. “In focus groups and parent/caregiver surveys, our Saugus families have overwhelmingly asked for enrichment opportunities during the school day including Robotics, Band and Chorus,” McMahon said. “Teachers have also asked for a mathematics coach to support them in teaching new standards in a curriculum adopted prior to the pandemic. Providing math support and enrichment will prepare 5th graders for the increasing rigor in middle and high school,” she said. McMahon noted that her proposed school spending plan “allows for the public schools to respond to the changes in demographics and economic circumstances of our families, while raising the level of expectations for all students, PreK — 12th grade.” Senior Discount! SNOW BLOWER LES, SERVICE & REPAIRS Pickup/Delivery Available 1039 BROADWAY, REVERE WWW.BIKERSOUTFITTER.COM 425r Broadway, Saugus Located adjacent to Kohls Plaza Route 1 South in Saugus at the intersection of Walnut St. We are on MBTA Bus Route 429 781-231-1111 We are a Skating Rink with Bowling Alleys, Arcade and two TV’s where the ball games are always on! 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Bell shares his views on what makes Precinct 1 special and the top issues facing the people he represents Editor’s Note: For this week’s column, we sat down with Town Meeting Member Mark J. Bell to ask him what makes Precinct 1 so special and what he sees as the top issues in the Saugus neighborhoods he represents. Bell is a Stoneham native who graduatGerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law Is Your Estate in Order? Do you have an update Will, Health Care Proxy or Power of Attorney? IfNot, Please Call for a Free Consultation. 14 Proctor Avenue, Revere (781) 284-5657 Dan - 1972 ed from Stoneham High School (1999). He received his bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Merrimack College (2003) and his Public Administration Master’s from UMass Boston (2009). Bell’s wife, Andrea, is a 2000 graduate of Saugus High School. They have been married since 2009 and have two sons — Matthew, a fi fth grader, and Jonathan, a second grader — both students at Belmonte STEAM Academy. Andrea is an elementary school teacher in Medford. Bell works as a whistleblower investigator for the U.S. Department of Occupational Safety and Health. Bell and his wife bought their fi rst home in Saugus on Foster Street in Precinct 8. In April 2021, they bought their current house on Pleasant Street from Precinct 1 Town Meeting Member Ann Devlin. Later that year, Bell ran for her seat and was elected to his fi rst two-year term on the Saugus Annual Town Meeting. He said he plans to run for at least one more term later this year in the town elections. Bell’s community activities include coaching basketball and baseball as a volunteer for the town’s Department of Youth & Recreation. He is also an assistant adult leader of Saugus Cub Scout Pack 62. Bell said We Sell Cigars & Accessories! 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Bell said he considers the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site as a unique feature that makes Precinct 1 special to the people he represents. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) he plans to attend the fi rst in a series of “Saugus Over Coff ee” forums set for 6:30 p.m. Monday in the Community Room of the Saugus Public Library. He is interested in meeting residents of Precinct 1 and encourages them to attend the forum, which is co-sponsored by The Saugus Advocate and the Saugus Public Library. Highlights of this week’s interview follow. Q: What makes Precinct 1 special as far as history, features, landmarks and businesses? Please tell me a little bit about Precinct 1. A: Precinct 1, I think, is special just because, fi rst of all, we have a national historic site: the Saugus Iron Works. And I think that’s pretty unique for the town to have it in the precinct. It’s a beautiful, open space where people can go. There’s a lot of history to it. And it’s really an area where I still walk around and learn something new each time that I’m there. And another thing with Precinct 1 — another nice area it has — is Prankers Pond and Stackpole Field; it’s a good area where I sometimes take my kids if they have to work on their hit and swing [baseball]. And if I want to throw the frisbee around, my dog is right there. Also, Precinct 1 has some very important buildings, such as several churches — the Town Hall. There’s also a small historic site on Appleton Street called Appleton’s Pulpit that goes all the way back to the Colonial days. And it also has the Saugus Public Library as well — that’s really convenient, as a parent, if I want to get something to read to my kids. It’s right there within walking distance. And Precinct 1 also has the Procopio Precinct 1, what I hear them talk a lot about is how to preserve what’s left of Prankers Pond, once the Saugus Ridge Development is completed. That is a massive project. I believe it’s going to be around 300 units, and it’s going to be a massive project. I think you’re going to have a lot of foot traffi c at Prankers Pond. Obviously, everyone is entitled to use Prankers Pond any time. But I think now the main concern for residents is just preservation of what’s left at Prankers because people still walk their dogs, play ice hockey, go fi shing and things of that nature. The question is how as a precinct do we move forward with preserving what’s left. I think people in the precinct are also interested in seeing what becomes of what’s left of development by the Central Street Mills. And I think that Prankers is interrelated with that because I don’t think people are anti-development. I just think they want to make sure that no more green space or the river keeps getting aff ected. Other than those two things, I think there are general things like sidewalks, trees, speeding and things of that nature. Q: And the potential reuse of the Roby School is a matter of concern to people in your precinct, too? A: Yes. But the Roby is going to be a question of what the town is going to do with that, because the Roby — in regards to the schools — all the other schools have open, green space, where the Roby does not. It’s in a congested area. That’s what makes the Roby unique from the other schools that are closed. People have mentioned that they are curious as to what the town is going to do with the Roby. Q: Do you have a preference as to what they would do with the Roby School? A: One thing that was mentioned to me — because you have the American Legion post right there — would be a place for veterans housing; just because that post is right there. Another idea is if the town ׉ 7cassandra://6_ScPu57jmQE23Ma4wbgPwL1H0HhRZoLL3r5ib8o0pI.`̰cH$s7׉ETHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JANUARY 27, 2023 Page 5 ilton Street, across from the Fire Station. But when I lived in Precinct 8, my wife and I — just like a lot of people — would love to walk down or drive down to the restaurant. It just had that kind of community feel to it. And people miss that. Q: Any other thoughts? Anything else you want to share? Do you think you will get a big turnout on Jan. 30 at the Saugus Public Library for the fi rst in a series of “Saugus Over Coff ee”? A: I think we might get a The historic home of Saugus Town Government: Saugus Town Hall, built in 1875, is one of several important buildings located in Precinct 1, including the Saugus Public Library, the Scott J. Procopio Saugus American Legion Post 210 and the Roby School Building, which once housed Saugus Public Schools Administration offi ces. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) wanted to make some foot traffi c in that area, you could possibly make it into a restaurant, because one thing that was mentioned to me was people used to come down here to La Vita Mia [former Italian restaurant on Hamilton Street]. It was a good restaurant — a good area that was within walking distance where you would know people. It just had a good community feel to it. One of the things that people have mentioned is that it would be nice if they could put a restaurant like that in the center of town. And they ask if the Roby has the capacity to do that. That could also be an idea for possible reuse of the building as well. Q: But La Vita Mia was not in your precinct. A: Right, it was over on Hamturnout because people will want to see what “Saugus Over Coff ee” is about. So, not only will you have people from the precinct come, but I think you might have maybe either Town Meeting members or other town offi cials attend. And because Precinct 1 will be the fi rst, you will get Town Meeting members and residents curious as to what it’s about and what people in Precinct 1 think is their most important issue. Q: When you think of Precinct 1, what is the landmark that comes to mind? One landmark. A: The Saugus Iron Works. Saugus Iron Works is beautiful, especially in the fall — October and November; it’s absolutely beautiful there with the foliage, along with the crisp autumn air. And what’s special about the Iron Works is this past summer they had a concert series there. And a lot of people really enjoyed that, especially people in the precinct, because a lot of times you could just go outside your house and pull up a chair and just basically hear everything. I think people really enjoyed the concert series at the Iron Works. Not only is it a beautiful place and a historic site, but I think you are starting to see the town really utilize that, especially for the summer concert series. Q: If there’s a historic fi gure who fi gures into Precinct 1, who would that be? A: I think it would be Major Appleton. And if you go up along Appleton Street, right in the middle there’s a big rock, and unless you actually slowed down, you would hardly know it’s even there. It’s the place where Major Appleton gave his speech against the royal governor [Sir Edmund Andros] at the time, who was part of the British Colonial Empire. A watch was stationed on the hill in case any of the British offi cers approached. AUTOTECH $$ CASH FOR YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR SUV! $$ DRIVE IT - PUSH IT - TOW IT! Cold Hard Cash for Your Vehicle! Get your vehicle Winter Ready! We Offer A Complete Safety Check! • Coolant Special with Oil Change • Top Off All Fluids • Synthetic Blend Oil Change Only $79.95 2012 SMART CAR CABRIOLET Convertible, Excellent Condition, Deluxe Package, Heated Seats, Most Power Options, Clean Title, Only 81K Miles! TRADES WELCOME! $9,900 Easy Financing Available! 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APY assumes that interest                                          ׉ 7cassandra://PN4dsDH-A94XpCsoNvdDVSQW0l5fQnKPSdy3LJIsEUg)[`̰cH$s7ȁcH$s7ǁ PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://8VaDY14yfTf-eWzIJet-Bg0_mxH8_-Y2ImWdwaL3P8sa`)׉ 7cassandra://G70LDgZg8i4jzj_5JLTxU8OCeCrthmVpI6D_zEvMGB8͒`J׉ 7cassandra://G1FMld8fgy83MfMs5swASttKBOMbr6Tlwlj4Ar1oPCE)L`̰׉ 7cassandra://vu-uaTryo8tN03U12NDjpke1WwmZIOHyALVLVydFKTo̓*͠cH$s7ט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://57ixijP12oahov9YQoiqCDnbmO_t_dl3o3f_Wz-vbwY`)׉ 7cassandra://EXZfskhxJ0G2liJpIfHzYU75-lOp2-bOJrMcl540L8su`J׉ 7cassandra://mfdLBOzTaiIQ9eWuxvaMYdRIkevOrFIBPejMw8gzcPQ(`̰׉ 7cassandra://otMQ1npEFUG5IgFPGr1ve4JyKD1JUZXz55xXrEc-nBk̓͠cH$s7נcH$s7yr*9ׁHhttp://www.pioneercss.orgׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 6 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JANUARY 27, 2023 Reading scores in the MCAS Exam. Superintendent’s Jan. 19 statement As Superintendent, I am deepUNDER INVESTIGATION | FROM PAGE 1 Saugus School Committee at Jan. 19 meeting day are not to be considered disciplinary. The committee will have no further comment until the results of the investigation are done,” he said. The committee then moved on to other business during a meeting that lasted close to 16 minutes. McMahon never addressed the meeting, but issued a statement later, saying that she welcomed the investigation and expects to be exonerated. McMahon vows to defend her reputation In the written statement she provided to The Saugus Advocate, McMahon alluded to potential concerns about the School District’s fiscal management. There are unconfirmed reports from several town offi cials that the investigation is focusing on alleged misappropriation of funds. “The district’s fi nancial records are audited every year by independent CPAs who have never reported to me that the school department should change or adjust any practices,” McMahon said in her statement. “While I have not yet been provided with any specifi c allegations made against me, any allegations of wrongdoing on my part are false. With the assistance of my attorneys, Michael Long and Sheilah McCarthy, I will zealously and transparently defend my unblemished professional reputation,” the superintendent said. Need a hall for your special event? The Schiavo Club, located at 71 Tileston Street, Everett is available for your Birthdays, Anniversaries, Sweet 16 parties and more? Call Dennis at (857) 249-7882 for details. to the educators. I think we’re in a good spot. More to come on everything. I appreciate your patience,” he said. Palmerini wanted to know if Saugus Public Schools Superintendent Erin McMahon on paid leave (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) Bill Palmerini, president of the Saugus Educators’ Association, expressed concerns that faculty members throughout the school district had not been briefed about the situation. “We have not received any notifi cation as a staff of who would be in charge,” Palmerini said. “So, would you be telling us that or would we be getting some type of communication regarding this? Because to have a ship without a captain is very concerning,” he said. Serino said there would be no notification to faculty about any change in leadership on a temporary basis. “We think the district is running exactly like it was before,” Serino said. “We have administration leadership, all the way down teachers would be receiving any notification to let them know about the superintendent’s being on administrative leave. He mentioned that many of the association’s 234 members were not in the audience and, therefore, weren’t aware of the situation. Serino said faculty would be advised of the superintendent’s status. In June of 2021, the School Committee unanimously approved a fi ve-year contract for McMahon, with a starting salary of $196,000. The superintendent stands to earn close to a million dollars over the life of the contract. It marked the fi rst time in the history of Saugus Public Schools that the School Committee had approved a fi ve-year contract for the leader of the town’s public education system. It was also the fi rst time that the School Committee had hired a woman superintendent. McMahon is midway through the second year of a fi ve-year plan to move the school district from the bottom 10 percent of academic performing schools to the top 10 percent, based on the district’s ranking against the state in performance on Math and ly committed to improving the lives of the students and families of Saugus. I’ve been thrilled with the progress the educators of Saugus have made toward the shared goals of closing our achievement gaps, reaching all learners, and doing the work educators do every day to change lives for the better. That is our mission. As Superintendent, I expect the School Committee to take an active and engaged interest in my management of the district, and I expect them to bring me any questions or concerns. The district’s fi nancial records are audited every year by independent CPAs who have never reported to me that the school department should change or adjust any practices. While I have not yet been provided with any specifi c allegations made against me, any allegations of wrongdoing on my part are false. With the assistance of my attorneys, Michael Long and Sheilah McCarthy, I will zealously and transparently defend my unblemished professional reputation. I welcome review and oversight by a qualifi ed professional investigator. I look forward to assisting in an unbiased review, which I hope will be done effi - ciently and expeditiously. On Tuesday, January 17, 2023, I voluntarily stepped back from my duties as Superintendent, pending the completion of the investigation and am on paid administrative leave. I look forward to returning soon to leading this district toward providing the best possible education for the children of Saugus. I will make no further public comment at this time. Thank you.                                         ׉ 7cassandra://G1FMld8fgy83MfMs5swASttKBOMbr6Tlwlj4Ar1oPCE)L`̰cH$s7׉ECTHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JANUARY 27, 2023 Page 7 PIONEER CHARTER SCHOOLS OF SCIENCE 2022 National Blue Ribbon School Highly Rank ighl k Accepting applications for the 2023-2024 school year. Apply NOW! Rigorous academic program Math and Science focus College prep curriculum Extended learning time Low student to teacher ratio Free tutoring opportunities Free & reduced lunch program Phone: (617) 294-4737 Fax: (617) 294-0596 Extracurricular activities & athletics Learners, Gifted & Talented services APPLY ONLINE at www.pioneercss.org Special Education, English Language ׉ 7cassandra://mfdLBOzTaiIQ9eWuxvaMYdRIkevOrFIBPejMw8gzcPQ(`̰cH$s7ʁcH$s7Ɂ PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://a4N1N3too8vcv2iGLzLvh7OtxWRydY0ZMmqGQEKMsM4 %~`)׉ 7cassandra://W7qFuWRHsPfjn8FLrqZARcfvvkFtkDPzOdxbYh9sKwM͗ `J׉ 7cassandra://-enc9WNR5ik5WJHS_Add1bvCp7_Hftld1znFFOFt7_E(`̰׉ 7cassandra://IXVRVxbzGdMR_-0LEaVdsYZfCU8GtJIjdSSuHRHvR0s4d͠cH$s7ט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://j8v-AQf9ncFCLzH4aPrjJCaQnNC1Hei1U2oID3hHVJc`)׉ 7cassandra://PNgEtlJkESnlLzezee0dWM-euoD9fOl-Cu8Fu71amj8͏`J׉ 7cassandra://z0f16P7cyw1FVMdp5KsnVSyA9eXh3k8PKsV934Zudo4'$`̰׉ 7cassandra://1B5fHOrcw4iRDQP-GHNM8kF914ed62HdN220yBaFsQIP%͠cH$s7׉E^Page 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JANUARY 27, 2023 STAYING THE COURSE | FROM PAGE 1 “I appreciate the confi dence,” Crabtree told selectmen after the offi cial vote approving his two-year extension. “And I do appreciate the job and will continue to work as hard as I can to improve on the things that you would like to have improved. I appreciate this job and I appreciate all of your support.” In addition, Crabtree received a 4 percent pay raise, retroactive from Aug. 23, 2022. The contract extension and pay information wasn’t immediately available. But Board of Selectman Chair Anthony Cogliano said Crabtree’s current base pay of $196,000 would increase to about $205,000, when taking benefi ts into account. Under his previous contract extension, Crabtree, 53, became the fi rst town manager to serve Saugus for a decade in the history of its current form of government (town manager/Representative Town Meeting), which dates back to 1948. Former Town Manager Andrew Bisignani (2003-2012) served for about nine years. Seventeen regular town managers were in offi ce less time. Their service ranged from a year to fi ve years; many of them for just half that period, which earned Saugus the reputation of being “the graveyard for town managers.” But Crabtree — who was fi red in the fall of 2014, only to get rehired a year later after the recall of the four selectmen who fi red him — is already credited with serving 10 years and nine months of service as Saugus town manager (and that includes the time between his fi ring and rehiring). If Crabtree serves the full amount of his contract extension, he will extend his stay at Town Hall to 15 years and four months. “I voted in favor of extending Mr. Scott Crabtree’s contract for two years because I think he’s done an exceptional job moving our Town forward,” Board of Selectmen Vice Chair Debra Panetta said. “I believe this will ensure the stability of our Town, and I look forward to continuing to work with our Town Manager for the betterment of our community and residents,” she said. Crabtree is a fourth-generation Saugus resident. He and his wife, Christina, have three young children. He is a Saugus High School graduate from the class of 1988. Previously, he served as chairman of the Saugus Board of Selectmen and was a town police offi cer for more than a decade. Crabtree holds a bachelor of science degree in management with a concentration in accounting from Boston University and a juris doctor from New England School of Law. He clerked for a Superior Court judge and worked as an accountant for a Boston law fi rm before starting his own Saugus law practice. He has been a member of the Massachusetts Bar since December of 2004. Crabtree became town manager on April 1, 2012. His days at Town Hall nearly ended in October of 2014, when the Board of Selectmen at the time voted 4-1 to fi re him. Selectman Panetta was the lone board member supporting Crabtree. But Panetta and enough citizens in the community rallied behind Crabtree, engineering a successful recall in March 2015 of the four selectmen who fi red the town manager. Panetta and the four “recall advocates” who joined her on the board — Cicolini, Mark Mitchell, Jennifer D’Eon and Scott A. Brazis — rehired Crabtree as one of their fi rst actions as a new board. Two members considered government change Board of Selectmen Chair Anthony Cogliano and Selectman Corinne Riley said they would have preferred to have the board elected this November vote on Crabtree’s contract extension. “I’m not happy this took place at this time as I felt the board coming in in November should have handled his contract extension; however, our Charter, as it presently reads, only requires three votes to extend a Manager’s contract and he had them,” Cogliano told The Saugus Advocate this week. “Voting against the extension would only show division and that’s not what I’m about. I’ve always been a team player and I hope that shows,” he said. A proposal was made to extend the manager’s contract an additional two years from August 2025 to August 2027, with the rationale that with a potential change of government on the horizon, retaining the Town Manager until 2027 would allow a year of overlap to a potential new form of government, according to Riley. “While the year overlap makes sense for a smooth (potential) transition, I felt that this decision would be better handled by the next Board to be elected by voters this November,” Riley said. “However, the proposal was made now, and the Board was not receptive to tabling this issue until November, so I had to make the best decision I could,” she said. “With all the current Saugus Town Manager Scott Crabtree has reason to be happy after selectmen voted to give him a two-year contract extension, ensuring that he will be at the helm of Saugus Town Government through August of 2027. (Saugus Advocate fi le photo by Mark E. Vogler) and soon to be started projects underway, like Cliftondale Revitalization, a West Side Fire Station, the Vocational school, water/sewer upgrades, water meter replacement, public safety communication upgrades, not to mention revenue-generators like marijuana dispensary permitting and potential fi nalization on a Host Community agreement with WIN, I think that stability is critical to get these projects planned and completed eff ectively, and retaining the Manager provides stability to the town, and reduces risk to these projects, even if a change of government were to occur.” Cogliano said his vote was infl uenced in part by the potential for Saugus to change from a town to a city — a move he has been lobbying for in recent weeks. “My vote tonight [Jan. 19] ensures that Saugus will stay the course while I work to change our Charter. With everything going on across the political aisle in town, the last thing we need is more controversy,” Cogliano said. He vowed to have a proposal for a Charter change along with a Charter Commission on the ballot in November. “They will then draft a plan to present to the voters in 2025 and if all goes well we could be electing our fi rst Mayor or Town Manager In mid 2026 for a temporary term,” Cogliano said. “The fi rst full four year term for Mayor could take place in November 2027, the same time the contract expires,” he said. Selectman Jeffrey Cicolini said the contract extension defi nitely helped to allay fears of uncertainty surrounding the possibility of Saugus switching from a town to a city. “Obviously, there is chatter about a change in our government, and this extension provides us much-needed stability into 2027, the fi rst year in which a change in our form of government could take place if supported by the voters,” Cicolini said. “Obviously, we cannot manage our town and fulfi ll our fi - duciary responsibilities based on what-if scenarios. No one knows what the future holds. What we do know is that we now have stability in our executive leadership for the next four years, which is an excellent thing for our community,” he said. Selectmen spent more than two hours in a public evaluation session at Town Hall last week. The Saugus Advocate asked the selectmen to each summarize how they graded Crabtree’s performance in light of the pay raise and contract extension: Board of Selectmen Chair Anthony Cogliano “Strengths: What he does well, he does really well and our town is in great shape fi - nancially.” “Shortcomings: Communication is an area all 5 members say he needs improvement. I think the town has a horrible rapport with developers and that starts at the top. Response time on most matters is slower than I’d like. “I also think he needs to al׉ 7cassandra://-enc9WNR5ik5WJHS_Add1bvCp7_Hftld1znFFOFt7_E(`̰cH$s7׉ETHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JANUARY 27, 2023 Page 9 low our department heads to do their jobs. There is oversight and then there’s micromanaging. A good manager can garner an employee’s respect and be well liked at the same time. I’m not sure we have that in Saugus today. “Do Scott and I have diff ering opinions, styles, and views, absolutely but we’ve managed to work in unison for the betterment of Saugus and will continue to do so. The entire board made it clear he needs to improve his communication skills. “I’d also like to see him act as fast as we did in settling his contract with all our unions and he said he would be starting that process in the coming weeks. “I’m happy to put this in the rear-view mirror and continue working to bring about a Host Community Agreement with WIN that will be even better than the one initially accepted, begin the licensing process for the Cannabis dispensaries, two initiatives I championed that I believe will bring as much as $100 million over the next 25 years. Money that will help us get our third fi re station that we desperately need. I can also kick the Charter Change process into high gear. The events of this week only prove to me that we can do better with our form of government. As always, Saugus fi rst.” Board of Selectmen Vice Chair Debra Panetta “Some of the reasons that I voted on this extension are listed below.” “Finances “Under Scott’s leadership, our Town fi nances are in excellent shape. Scott has implemented and upheld fi nancial management policies and procedures, which led to the Town achieving a AA+/Stable rating under S&P Global Ratings. I believe this is the most signifi cant accomplishment under Scott’s watch. “When I became a Selectman almost 12 years ago, there was talk about going into receivership. There was discussion about closing the Library, the Senior Center, and Youth and Rec. The Essex Street Fire Station was continuously being closed due to lack of funds. Per Standard & Poors, ‘Saugus now has a “very strong economy, strong management, strong budgetary fl exibility, and very strong liquidity.’” We also have approximately $10M in our stabilization fund. “By our Town being financially strong, we have saved millions in dollars in borrowing — where we can continue to save money & invest in our community. “New School / Parks & Playgrounds “Under Scott’s leadership, our Saugus children have a beautiful, state-of-the-art Middle/High School. The Belmonte School has been renovated for the upper elementary school students, serving students 2-5. These eff orts, which were supported by over 70 percent of the voters, are all part of the district-wide master plan solution to prioritize education in Saugus. This was the largest capital project that Saugus has ever undergone. “Our Town has prioritized parks and playgrounds under Scott’s watch, including Bristow Park, Belmonte Middle School Tennis Courts, improvement in Stackpole Field, the Veterans playground and the Evans Park basketball courts. “GRANTS Received “Although Saugus does not have a grant writer, Scott and his staff have worked diligently to bring in millions of dollars of grant money into Town. “Some of our successes include: The $65.1M grant through the MSBA for the new Middle/High School “Saugus was awarded a community development block grant COVID-19 grant to help small businesses (up to $360K). “We have received over $1M in grant money since Saugus has become a green community. (good for the environment while receiving funding) “Awarded multiple SAFER grants for the hiring of firefi ghters. “Awarded $1M towards the fi nal design and construction of the fi rst phase of the Ballard Street RiverWalk project from the Seaport Economic Council. “Awarded $1M for public safety communication enhancements. “And the most recent grant of $2.3M to revitalize Cliftondale Square. “Safety Improvements “We have continued to invest in public safety under Scott’s watch. We have acquired new police cruisers, we’ve added radar speed signs, and we’ve had a comprehensive, town-wide speed limit analysis completed by The Engineering Corp. (TEC) of Andover. He is also overseeing the public safety fi ber optics communication upgrade project. “Scott also worked hard to try to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in the community and prioritize the health and safety of all residents during this global pandemSelectmen and Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree (far right) are shown last month, warming up inside Town Hall during the town’s tree lighting event. Joining him, pictured from left to right, were Selectmen Michael Serino, Anthony Cogliano, Corinne Riley, Debra Panetta and Jeff rey Cicolini. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) ic. He hired a new Director of Public Health, hired additional nurses, as well as other health care professionals to support and aid the public during these trying times. “Completion of the Master Plan “Scott hired the MAPC (Metropolitan Area Planning Council) to help develop the Goals & Vision for Saugus over the next 15 years. Public meetings were held to engage the public on what direction they wanted Saugus to take. The Master Plan is now complete. “Cliftondale Square “The Board of Selectmen let the Town Manager know that Cliftondale Square was a priority. The Town Manager was able to secure two parcels that will be used to help revitalize the square, including adding additional parking in the area. We were also awarded a $2.3M grant to help revitalize the square. “With so many accomplishments, I feel that an extension of Scott’s contract is well deserved. He is dedicated to do what’s in the best interest of our community.” Selectman Jeff rey Cicolini “As for the Town Manager’s evaluation, I think it is evident by the comments made by all 5 selectmen that our Town Manager does an excellent job maintaining fi scal and operational stability for Saugus. Our town’s fi nancial performance and fi scal strength has never been better than it is today. Scott’s conservative fi nancial policies coupled with his attention to detail on complex matters, help Saugus maintain its fi scal strength and reputation as a stable community. “Obviously, as with any employee, there are areas where one can improve. I think Scott was receptive to constructive feedback, and I am sure he will strive to address any items that we raised. The vote for the contract extension being unanimously supported by all 5 of us is a great thing for Saugus. Part of our bond rating assessment includes the stability of the community, including its leadership Selectman Corinne Riley “Regarding the Town Manager’s evaluation, fi rst off , I am happy that we’re now having regular public evaluations, as I think it increases transparency and accountability in our local government. Specifi c pros, in my opinion, include a conservative fi scal approach, which provides for stability and fl exibility for things that cannot be reliably predicted like snow and ice, pandemic-related expenses, etc. “Another pro for me was the purchase of 481-483 Lincoln Ave and 42 Jackson St. These two properties in the heart of Cliftondale represent a rare opportunity for the town to have a direct impact on Cliftondale Revitalization. To the Manager’s credit, he acted STAYING THE COURSE | SEE PAGE 20 Everett, MA 617-202-8259 * We work with most Fuel Assistance programs “We’re accepting new customers, no experience necessary” “Aceptamos Nuevos clientes no se necesita experiencia.” ~ Hablamos Española ~ 50 Gallon Minimum (Surcharge Applys) Major Credit Cards Accepted Scan our QR Code ׉ 7cassandra://z0f16P7cyw1FVMdp5KsnVSyA9eXh3k8PKsV934Zudo4'$`̰cH$s7́cH$s7ˁ PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://ZLuxKARQo5MO_8s3Z2Uqd5rOR9SEFwOSJKkcCGFrw00 o`)׉ 7cassandra://Q5RFp93ljaZr-e0suAY0v4t1U_k34neYApC5CAd-doo͒`J׉ 7cassandra://C8L7I6zlrWgJWwv-RCoviQ_WlyS63ET4527jwXkYDBQ%`̰׉ 7cassandra://3wAmlGzo0eKv-WbJKR26QidXFRcqjioyeXVshFAen64!͠cH$s7ט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://59vLwK-1AIcObX2QvJcSgjFTut85s-Wi31yiubUoXV8o`)׉ 7cassandra://MIifbU0c9la6RYaBbsj8fJ4hmte0NWatUTMtZR_vgJw͍`J׉ 7cassandra://G75yy31FM2J_Ke8yZ1WofaHmn5WxZ1UT_FxlpNWC2cs(`̰׉ 7cassandra://q_apLbzAOwj4XzIQ0dXBfDoGkVShFNIszDU59AP71Tw͠cH$s7׉E&Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JANUARY 27, 2023 “The Old Sachem” Two Baseball Greats By Bill Stewart T his week we lost two baseball greats. Frank Thomas was 93 and Sal Bando was 78. Thomas was born in Pittsburgh on June 11, 1929, and his parents sent him to a Roman Catholic Seminary in Ontario, Canada, because they wanted him to be a priest. He played baseball in Canada and was signed by the Pirates. Thomas was a power hitter for the Pirates in the 1950s. He was an all-star for the National League in 1954, 1955 and 1958, belting 35 home runs and driving in 109 runs for the Pirates, while batting.281. He was often traded during his career: moving to the Cincinnati Reds, the Chicago Cubs and the Milwaukee Braves before he was traded to the Mets in 1961. The Mets at that time were assembling a team to appear in the National League under Casey Stengel — building a franchise for the 1962 year. He was an outfi elder, mostly in left during his career. Under Stengel’s leadership the team set a record of losing 120 games that fi rst season. Thomas set the team record of 34 homers with 94 runs driven in that fi rst season. The record was eventually broken by Dave Kingman in 1975. The Mets played in the Polo Grounds for their fi rst two seasons, and Thomas was prone to pull the ball very often, which upset Casey. Thomas once told a reporter that he was happy to make it to the Big Apple because he expected to make a lot of money between salary and endorsements; outside of salary he made about $2,000. He was traded to the Phillies in 1964. Thomas later played for the Houston Astros and then back to the Braves, then back to the Cubs. He smashed 286 home runs during his career and drove in 962 runs. After his playing time was over, he liked to say that his name is in the Baseball Hall of Fame, and it is, only it refers to a later Frank Thomas who made the Hall in 2014. Sal Bando was born in 1944 in Cleveland, Ohio, and graduated from Warrensville Heights High School, where he played baseball, football and basketball and also ran track. His next station was Arizona State University Sun Devils, where “The Old Sachem,” Bill Stewart he became the MVP of the College World Series in 1965 when the Sun Devils won the championship. Drafted by the Kansas City Athletics, he became a captain of the squad at the early age of 25. The team went on to win three consecutive World Series on a team loaded with talent; in addition to Bando it included Reggie Jackson, Rollie Fingers, Catfi sh Hunter, Vida Blue and Joe Rudi. The As beat the “Big Red Machine,” the Cincinnati Reds that had Pete Rose and Johnny Bench in 1972. They beat the Mets in 1973 and the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1974. He played third base during his career and missed very few games while with the Athletics, averaging more than 20 home runs and 90 RBIs per season during his time in the majors. Bando was selected to the All-Stars four times, and the Society of American Baseball Research found that between 1969 and 1973 his “wins above replacement” figure (which estimates the total contribution of a player to a hypothetical replacement) was the highest in baseball at the time, beating out Jackson, Rose and Bench. After the 1976 season, Sal Bando became a free agent and signed with the Milwaukee Brewers. He retired after the 1981 season and became a front offi ce administrator in the Brewers organization. He was the General Manager for most of the 1990s. These two contributed much to the game of baseball during their time on the fi eld. (Editor’s Note: Bill Stewart, better known to Saugus Advocate readers as “The Old Sachem,” writes a weekly column about sports — and sometimes he opines on current or historical events or famous people.) ~Letter-to-the-Editor~ Why We Won’t Join “Friends of Breakheart” D ear Editor: We were recently asked to join the Friends of Breakheart Reservation (FOB). We love Breakheart, which is why we wrote a book (actually, the book) about it. However, we will not join because the group’s president, Peter Rossetti, Jr., is in favor of a plan that would destroy 13 acres of forest that were formerly part of Breakheart. These 13 acres are on an elevated part of a 60-acre parcel that the state MDC (now DCR) transferred to Metro Tech in 1965 to build a school. (If you’re asking why a single school needed 60 acres, you’re asking a good question.) The school district built the current Metro Tech on the 30 lower acres, still a generous area for a school. Now that the Metro Tech needs to be rebuilt (few would disagree!), there is plenty of space available within the 30 developed acres. There is no need to destroy a beautiful forest. This forest, up to 60 feet above and to the right (facing the entrance) of the existing Metro Tech parking lot, has been a haven for wildlife, native plants, and hikers for over 50 years. It would also provide a wonderful natural classroom for Metro Tech students, many of whom will need training in natural systems as we move into a greener, more environmentally sustainable future. Just check out the offerings at award-winning Minuteman Tech in Lexington — their Environmental Science & Technology program is attracting students! At a time when we need to do all we can to protect our air and water resources and address climate change, the decision to build a school in the middle of a forest is incomprehensible. What a horrible message to give our kids. It is hard (no, impossible) to understand how someone who considers himself a “Friend of Breakheart” could think that it is okay to destroy the adjoining forest, which is not visually separate from Breakheart. Not only will 13 acres of forest be destroyed, but the downstream wetlands and waterways within Breakheart will become polluted with nitrogen, phosphorus, and chloride (and likely pollutants from vehicle oils, tires, and brakes), which cannot be removed by stormwater fi ltration systems. The stormwater system will also not be designed to handle 25year or 100-year storm events, which are expected to occur more frequently. Seeking exemptions from these basic design requirements means that the project proponents accept environmental degradation as the price of development. Mr. Rossetti has helped organize many activities that benefi t the community, but his position on this school project is the antithesis of FOB’s goal to “preserve and improve” Breakheart Reservation. In addition, it’s curious that Mr. Rossetti supports a project that his own community (Saugus) voted against. How did we end up fi ghting for a forest that many assumed was already protected? The answer is that the elected and appointed officials that ran the process of selecting a site for a new Metro Tech care about getting money from the state, playing fi elds, and access roads, but not a scintilla about the natural environment. They see our forest as a piece of real estate covered by replaceable trees. They know nothing about the beauty and functions of a forest or the reverence that a mature forest deserves, or the increasing rarity of areas not contaminated by urban development. When people voted for the school, did they vote to destroy the forest? Of course, they didn’t, as over 4,300 signatures on an on-line petition demonstrate (available on the “Save the Forest and Build the Voke” Facebook page). The site information was carefully hidden behind the popular question of whether we should build a new school. Now that they have the goahead to build the school, they are trying to control the growing protests against its location. Time to line up the contracts and move forward! The pre-feasibility study, however, rejected site C-3 (the forest) as too costly and diffi - cult to develop and recommended sites C-2 or C-1, each of which has an area equal to C-3 and is in already developed land. Somewhere along the line, the building committee decided to favor site C-3. (See the strong reaction of Wakefield architect Brian Thomson to this decision on the “Save the Forest and Build the Voke” Facebook page.) It appears that the committee kept the change of site close to their vests because they knew there would be resistance to destroying the forest. A strategy emerged of keeping protest to a gentle murmur until the public process was over, the votes counted, and they could declare that “it’s too late to complain.” But these “complaints” are actually pleas to listen to reason. Why would we spend millions of additional dollars on a site that is diffi cult to develop, requires months of blasting and rock-crushing, and that will result in a school with severe accessibility and safety issues (steep and long stairways, high ledges), loss of endangered-species habitat and vernal pools, and potentially destroy Native American sites when there are two alternative sites available? The rising costs of blasting and preparing site C-3 alone should give project proponents pause, but apparently not. Are we sacrificing a forest so that students will not have to use available temporary playing fi elds while the new school is being built? Is it too much to wait until the old school is razed and a new playing fi eld built at that location? When we have a public process where a bad decision cannot be revisited, we have a fundamentally broken system. In this case, the process is working only for the developers and Town leadership who have their eye on a large pot of money and no interest in environmental protection. If this decision holds, citizens of 12 towns will be paying for this mistake for decades to come. So when we were asked whether we would like to join the “Friends of Breakheart,” we cannot do so in good conscience, not as long as its president is in favor of this truly heartbreaking plan. Sincerely, Alison Simcox and Douglas Heath Wakefi eld, MA ׉ 7cassandra://C8L7I6zlrWgJWwv-RCoviQ_WlyS63ET4527jwXkYDBQ%`̰cH$s7׉ETHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JANUARY 27, 2023 Page 11 Saugus Gardens in the Winter Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable By Laura Eisener E veryone who has complained about the lack of snow this winter got a good dose of it this week! Monday’s storm in particular brought about 5” to most neighborhoods by the time it had all settled that night. Every branch was coated overnight and remained for a while in the morning until the sun broke through the clouds. It is somewhat unusual to have a good coating like that when the ponds are still not completely frozen over, but that was the case almost everywhere due to the temperatures fl uctuating around the freezing mark as they have been. Sunday marked the lunar New Year and ushered in the Year of the Rabbit. The fourth animal in the 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle usually is considered a very lucky one, indicating good luck and longevity to those born in that year. The actual animal of this zodiac sign is more likely to be a hare, closely related to and often confused with rabbits. Hares indigenous to Asia include the Yunnan hare (Lepus comus) of China, the Korean hare (Lepus koreana), which lives in Korea and parts of China, and several others. There are also hare species native to Europe and to western North America. To add to the confusion, North American hares are often known as jackrabbits, like the blackThis Carolina wren (left) and house sparrow (right) each want to make sure they get their piece of the pie at the Zapolski feast. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Charles Zapolski) A pot of springtime, in the form of tulips, daff odils and a hyacinth, brings warmth to my kitchen despite the snow outside. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus), which is sometimes called California hare. In Arizona you might encounter the antelope jackrabbit (Lepus alleni), which is not the same as the mythical jackalope — the latter is often depicted sporting antlers! But the question you really need answered is who ate your tulips last spring? That is most likely to have been the eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus fl oridanus), which is the most common wild rabbit species in southern New England. While hares and rabbits all have long ears and a fl uff y tail, hares are larger and more athletic, run much faster, are much less likely to live in social groups, usually live aboveground rather than in burrows like rabbits, and have somewhat different diets. Rabbits are active year-round and do not hibernate for the winter like groundhogs do, but they may occupy somewhat diff erent seasonal territories depending on their food sources. Coming up on Thursday, February 2, is Groundhog Day. If you are tired of winter already, that date marks halfway between the winter solstice and spring equinox. Whether our local groundhogs, like the one who sunned itself regularly in front of the forge building of the ironworks last fall, come out to check their shadows on Thursday will depend somewhat on temA vivid red male cardinal perches in a silver maple tree in Lynnhurst. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) perature. If they do feel like coming out of hibernation Thursday, we hope it will be cloudy so they aren’t startled by their shadow! A sunny day could cause six more weeks of winter! While many bird species migrate, we certainly have many which stay around even during the snowy months. We may be as grateful to see the birds at the feeder as they are to fi nd the feeders full of seeds. And like the birds we may plump ourselves up with comfort foods at this time of year. Charles and Kathy Zapolski recently treated their feathered friends to pie — cranberry apple pie with a sprinkling of bird seeds — which was viewed as a treat by several species. In the photo above a tiny Carolina wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus) is standing its ground to be sure the house sparrow (Passer domesticus) doesn’t get a bigger piece! Evergreens like eastern white pine (the tall evergreens seen in the snowy scene at Birch Pond above) help provide shelter to birds and other wildlife during storms, but some buds are already swelling on deciduous trees. Silver maple (Acer saccharinum) and red maple (Acer rubrum) have buds which are noticeably larger than a few weeks ago already. Foliage of early bulbs like snowdrops (Galanthus spp.) and daff odils (Narcissus spp.) are showing green during the melting periods between snowstorms. A spray of snow erupts as the rail trail between Lincoln Ave. and Central St. is cleared after Monday’s storm.(Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) The snow temporarily turned Saugus into a winter wonderland as it clung to tree branches early Tuesday. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) ׉ 7cassandra://G75yy31FM2J_Ke8yZ1WofaHmn5WxZ1UT_FxlpNWC2cs(`̰cH$s7΁cH$s7́ PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://mJCSC85-ArELKYQJ_ovu6OCm7M16uY4PahC5A_MbofI{`)׉ 7cassandra://SZ7S45oWKt7l-L2reKOYNyw7sLlpDw5pFsGCQeGrDnY͕%`J׉ 7cassandra://Hcm3MpGZL-C-yj4SUDlPhmKVQd7GK_4JpO2rwZWdG0Q/`̰׉ 7cassandra://ky-6cP4YldfqBBv0NPvByiJ-IabTfxKREYdQUufIanY{ .͠cH$s7ט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://v9uPyB6VlVR0FUkJzJLVY4e7L0RVqCoEzKGtJAZfgbIl=`)׉ 7cassandra://MNQrcmr6G9yN8cOQQrvWlhQWBLtZowwAzdAEXlNSgkA͏`J׉ 7cassandra://99_JpAjc_3u3vc1QV_dlx6Wn5exQme_Lf1hJMs16-Cg+M`̰׉ 7cassandra://Ypn-HuQesEOPxaakSapwYjuSzIcXkBV99U1va5WSygQ *͠cH$s7׉EIPage 12 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JANUARY 27, 2023 Lucianne Calder, in middle, did the electric slide. (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) A pproximately 175 people attended the Saugus Senior Center’s belated New Year’s party last Friday. Entertainment was provided by Disc Jockey Alan LaBella. The classic 50’s dance, The Twist brought guests back-in-time. SENIOR SAUGUONIANS RANG IN 2023 Cathy Billings and Rollin Allcott danced to slow songs. The single ladies wore lit up rings. Men danced to the classic “YMCA” song. The dancing queens. Mardi Gras came early this year. Cabrina Johnson and David Swallow slow danced. Seniors rang in 2023 — Front row, pictured from left to right: Eleanor Gallo, Mary Dunlop, Judy Worthley. Back row, pictured from left to right: Barbara Trainor, Shirley Bogdan and Dottie Bockus. Gloria Johnson, Ruth Berg, in center, on the dance fl oor. Happy New Year — Pictured from left to right: Director Laurie Davis, Administrative Assistant Lynette Terrazzano, bookkeeper/trip coordinator Annette Reed, receptionist Joanne Genzale, outreach Cheryl Roberto and transportation clerk Cathy Strum. Pictured from left to right: volunteer Joanie Allbee, dishwasher Paul Watts, kitchen staff Ann Swanson, kitchen manager Michele Kelley, volunteer Cabby Johnson, volunteer Fran Rogers and volunteer David Swallow. ׉ 7cassandra://Hcm3MpGZL-C-yj4SUDlPhmKVQd7GK_4JpO2rwZWdG0Q/`̰cH$s7׉ETHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JANUARY 27, 2023 Page 13 Sachem girls earn 8th win at Beverly By Greg Phipps A s the season progresses, the Saugus High School girls’ basketball team appears to be getting more formidable with every game. The Sachems rolled to double-digit Saugus guard Peyton DiBiasio continued her scoring surge by netting 25 points in Tuesday’s road win over Beverly. road wins over Swampscott last Friday and Beverly on Tuesday to increase their victory total to eight for the season. As has become a regular occurrence of late, freshman guard Peyton DiBiasio keyed the off ensive attack with a combined 41 points in the two wins. She poured in 16 in a 53-26 pasting of the Big Blue last Friday. Ashleen Escobar contributed seven points, and Saugus as a team nailed 11 shots from beyond the arc. Helping out in that category were Taylor Deleidi, Juliana Powers, Ana Silva and Ashleigh Moore. The Sachems built an imposing 41-21 lead after three periods and were never threatened from there. Head Coach Mark Schruender told the press after the game that the Sachems used their athleticism and quickness to pressure Swampscott and perhaps tire out the home team. In Tuesday’s 48-32 triumph at Beverly, DiBiasio finished with 25 points, as the Sachems pulled out to a fast start and led 25-11 at the half. “Beverly closed the gap and went on a little run at one point, but we countered with a run of our own and put things out of reach in the fourth quarter,” Schruender observed after it was over. DiBiasio drilled five shots from three-point land while Escobar and Devany Millerick combined for 13 points. Ana Silva sank an important three-pointer in the third quarter to help stave off Beverly’s comeback bid, and Jessica Bremberg was a force on the boards with eight rebounds, as well as getting extra possessions on jump balls and defl ections. Schruender also cited Madi Femino for her defensive play and effective trapping, and Moore for her excellent passing and getting others involved in the offense. “Overall, it was a great team win and all 11 players that played made some type of positive contribution,” said Schruender. Tuesday’s victory gave Saugus an 8-4 overall record entering Friday’s Win streak ends for Saugus boys against Panthers By Greg Phipps T he Saugus High School boys’ basketball team was riding a sturdy winning streak heading into Tuesday night’s home contest against the Top-25 stateranked Beverly Panthers. As it turned out, Sachems battled hard but couldn’t keep up with the visitors in an eventual 6841 setback. As of this week, Beverly was ranked 24th in the state with four losses on its record. It’s not as dominating as the Panthers were last season when they went undefeated until their 20th regular season game. They fi nished 21-3 overall last winter after being eliminated in the second round of the playoff s. On the other side, Saugus is a much-improved squad from the team that missed the postseason in 2021-22. The Sachems got a double-digit scoring eff ort from Ben Tapia-Gately with 14 points. Chris Flynn also had a solid outing with nine points. Prior to Tuesday’s loss, the Sachems had won four straight, including a comefrom-behind 59-50 victory over the Swampscott Big Blue last Friday at home. Much like the season opener the two teams played at Swampscott, which Saugus won by a 59-54 score, the game was a backand-forth aff air. But it was the Sachems who executed and finished better in the fi nal quarter. Saugus trailed by fi ve late in the third when back-to-back three-pointers by Tapia-Gately and Flynn helped make it a 37-36 Swampscott edge entering the fi nal eight minutes. Saugus went on to outscore the Big Blue 23-13 in the fi nal quarter to secure its ninth victory of the season. Three Sachems — Tapia-Gately, Isaiah Rodriguez, and Josh Osawe — ended up with 15-point nights. Contributing seven points each to the cause were Max Anajjar and Flynn. The Sachems sit at 9-4 overall on the season with a home contest against Lynn Tech on tap for Monday (scheduled 7 p.m. start). Saugus lost a close one-point overtime game to the Tigers when the two teams met back in December. Saugus’s Jessica Bremberg came up big with eight rebounds against Beverly on Tuesday. home game against Winthrop (scheduled 7 p.m. tap). The Sachems are then on the road again when they travel to play Triton next Tuesday. Saugus’s Ben Tapia-Gately led the off ense with 14 points in a loss against highly-ranked Beverly on Tuesday at home. (Advocate photo by Greg Phipps) ׉ 7cassandra://99_JpAjc_3u3vc1QV_dlx6Wn5exQme_Lf1hJMs16-Cg+M`̰cH$s7ЁcH$s7ρ PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://zJiGwMaTingF-pb1aC9-LgKzCd5OJAtyfw7GA9UI0KM `)׉ 7cassandra://Fm6wdk9_rHTVE-I367SjWrskh1wtqurQNT82WK4sMPc͗`J׉ 7cassandra://-9AZcT3T59-iUevF-__YIWwiv5s9AUgdpkdBUR7xRK4'`̰׉ 7cassandra://AbeAsd6ivz3ROSAje1C4Wmnlbf1GIXcjaaBf3NutcMkE^͠cH$s7ט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://bmSw2kFNp5cIF4LVvmOCHmaN4HoRd5XgKzOXDeY5PrEd`)׉ 7cassandra://QxMai6b_3c-m5Tx6Cip4HTOJniifKevQm_FDs_Bvt4Q͞`J׉ 7cassandra://g47kSYWMeJ-npNchrdXOub7hLOchb26bMZyRWr93XDc,`̰׉ 7cassandra://oA6yzctFsEyuJnZcDdm1zs56r53Mpx9OLxpQpr1sbbM[ ͕͠cH$s7נcH$s8 9ׁH"http://www.eight10barandgrille.comׁ ׁ ЈנcH$s8  W9ׁHhttp://WWW.SABATINO-INS.COMׁ ׁ ЈנcH$s8 L9ׁHhttps://www.saׁ ׁ ЈנcH$s8 m[̠9ׁHhttp://sauguspubliclibrary.orgׁ ׁ ЈנcH$s8 X}9ׁHhttp://publiclibrary.orgׁ ׁ ЈנcH$s8 X,9ׁHhttp://form.cfׁ ׁ ЈנcH$s8X9ׁH"http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/ekׁ ׁ ЈנcH$s8fG̑ 9ׁHhttp://www.saugus-ma.govׁ ׁ ЈנcH$s8db9ׁHhttp://tistSaugus.orgׁ ׁ Ј׉E$Page 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JANUARY 27, 2023 The Sounds of Saugus By Mark E. Vogler Good Morning, Saugus! A few town offi cials I spoke with last week said they heard that allegations related to “misappropriation of funds” is the reason why Superintendent Erin McMahon had been placed on paid administrative leave. But they were not members of the School Committee — including the chair, Vincent Serino, who refused to even confi rm that she was on paid leave until the fi ve returned from an Executive Session at last Thursday (Jan. 19) night’s School Committee meeting. While it appears that the School Committee members met in Executive Session to discuss confi - dential matters pertinent to the decision to relieve the superintendent of her duties indefi nitely while an investigation is going on, there wasn’t any reference to the situation on the meeting agenda. The agenda listed the two items being discussed in the Executive Session as “a. Contract negotiations” and “b. To discuss strategy with respect to pending litigation.” These items obviously don’t apply to the superintendent. All Serino’s statement did was confi rm the rampant rumors that the superintendent is indeed on paid leave while the committee awaits the results of a so-called investigation. Serino didn’t say who was investigating the superintendent or how a decision was reached to put McMahon on leave. Was it the full committee’s call or a decision that the chair made on his own? And if allegations about the superintendent was the reason for the Executive Session, there was no reference to that, the way the agenda was worded. For her part, the superintendent said she wasn’t aware of the specifi c nature of the allegations. —Contest— CONTEST SKETCH OF THE WEEK Yet, she made a comment that appeared related to questions being raised about the fi scal management of Saugus Public Schools: “The district’s fi nancial records are audited every year by independent CPAs who have never reported to me that the school department should change or adjust any practices,” the superintendent said. “While I have not yet been provided with any specific allegations made against me, any allegations of wrongdoing on my part are false,” she added, naming two attorneys who are handling her case. The superintendent also mentioned that she “voluntarily stepped back” from her duties on Jan. 17, pending the completion of the investigation. Stay tuned. “Saugus Over Coffee” for Precinct 1 residents The public education project called “Saugus Over Coff ee” — co-sponsored by The Saugus Advocate and the Saugus Public Library—gets underway on Monday (Jan. 30) at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the library. And this will be a special night for civic-minded Precinct 1 residents who want to express their views on major challenges or issues facing their neighborhoods. First, they will get to hear their Town Meeting members talk about their chief neighborhood concerns during the forum. Anyone who is considering running for a Town Meeting seat will also be allowed to share their views. Then residents will have an opportunity to express themselves. We will try to keep a running tally of all the concerns mentioned during the forum to determine how prevalent those concerns are. The forum will be videotaped by SaugusTV for public viewing at a later date. The forum is open to any town residents. But only Precinct 1 residents will be allowed to speak. And if any of the residents feel GUESS WHO GOT SKETCHED! If you know the right answer, you might win the contest. In this week’s edition, we continue our weekly feature where a local artist sketches people, places and things in Saugus. Got an idea who’s being sketched this week? If you do, please email me at mvoge@ comcast.net or leave a phone message at 978-683-7773. Anyone who identifi es the Saugonian sketched in this week’s paper between now and Tuesday at Noon qualifi es to have their name put in a green Boston Red Sox hat with a chance to be selected as the winner of a $10 gift certifi cate, compliments of Hammersmith Family Restaurant at 330 Central St. in Saugus. But you have to enter to win! Look for the winner and identifi cation in next week’s “The Sounds of Saugus.” Please leave your mailing address in case you are a winner. (Courtesy illustration to The Saugus Advocate by a Saugonian who goes by the name of “The Sketch Artist”) uncomfortable about having their comments videotaped, they can submit their concerns in writing at the forum — or email them to me at mvoge@comcast.net. Coff ee, tea and refreshments will be served at 6:10 during an informal social gathering where Precinct 1 residents will get an opportunity to meet their Town Meeting members and Town Meeting members will get to meet people they represent. Residents who are unable to get down to the library Monday night to watch the forum will have an opportunity to view it on SaugusTV. Residents can check the programming guide on the station’s website (www.saugustv. org) for dates and times. A video of the forum will also be available for viewing on the station’s vimeo page within a day or two after the event (www.vimeo.com/saugustelevision). A similar Monday night forum will be held monthly, spotlighting each of the other precincts now through October. Precinct 2 residents will have a chance to express their views at a forum scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 13. It’s been my observation in the past town election years that folks don’t get to learn much about all of the candidates running for the 50 seats on the Annual Town Meeting — Saugus’s very own Legislature. Now, they will. And the candidates running for selectmen of School Committee will get to hear the top neighborhood concerns of Saugus residents. For those folks who attend, please keep in mind that this is not a debate. It is an opportunity for citizens who live in Precinct 1 to share their concerns with Town Meeting members and other town offi cials. It’s also a chance for people who participate to get to know their precinct better and to learn what makes it unique and special compared to other precincts throughout the town. Here is the full schedule: Precinct 1 — Jan. 30 Precinct 2 — Feb. 13 Precinct 3 — March 13. Precinct 4 — April 17 Precinct 5 — May 8 Precinct 6 — June 12 Precinct 7 — July 10 Precinct 8 — August 14 Precinct 9 — Sept. 11 Precinct 10 — Oct. 23 Please check with The Saugus Advocate or library for any changes in dates. Comedy at the Kowloon The Kowloon Restaurant has set its January comedy lineup with talent featuring Tony V. Here’s the lineup: Tony V today (Friday, January 27). Tickets are $20 and showtime is 8 p.m. at the Kowloon Restaurant, Route 1 North in Saugus. For tickets, call the Kowloon Restaurant at 781233-0077. Bingo is back! The Kowloon Restaurant announces Bingo every Wednesday, 7 to 9 p.m., in the Hong Kong Lounge. Prizes will be given away each week with a grand prize set at the fi nale in March. A full Chinese gourmet spread is available during Bingo — featuring pupu platters, egg rolls, crab Rangoons, Saugus Wings, General Gau’s chicken, lobster sauce, fried scallops, lo mein, moo shi pork, salt and pepper calamari and sushi — along with a full bar menu, including the signature mai tais and scorpion bowls. Celebrating the Saugus High band The Saugus Historical Society is planning its spring season of programs and a new exhibit which will open in March. The exhibit will feature Saugus High School band memorabilia from several time periods and some color day posters recently donated to the society. Anyone who was a band member at any time, or who had an ancestor who was a band member, is invited to share some of their memories. Please call Saugus Historical Society President Laura Eisener at 781-231-5988 to share your story. “We are looking for some anecdotes and stories from people involved in Saugus High School Band at any time,” Laura says. “The Historical Society is putting together a display of band uniforms, parents’ jackets, photos etc. which will be ready by the fi rst meeting in the Spring,” she said. Laura can be reached at 781231-5988. Craft Fair and Flea Market The Knights of Columbus Council 1829 will host an indoor craft fair and fl ea market on Saturday, Feb. 18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 57 Appleton St., Saugus. A snow date has been set for Feb. 25. Vendors/ Table cost: $25. There will be refreshments, a cash bar and raffl es. To reserve a table or obtain more information, please call Paul Giannetta at 978-239-1392. Food Pantry The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry is open today (Friday, January 27) from 9:30-11 a.m. “Shout Outs” to Senior Center volunteers We didn’t receive any reader recommendations this week to recognize people doing good things for the betterment of Saugus. So, I will use editorial discretion by calling for a mega “Shout Out” for the crew of volunteers that keep things working at the Senior Center. Want to “Shout Out” a fellow Saugonian? This is an opportunity for our paper’s readers to single out — in a brief mention — remarkable acts or achievements by Saugus residents or an act of kindness or a nice gesture. Just send an email (mvoge@comcast.net) with a mention in the subject line of “An Extra Shout Out.” No more than a paragraph; anything lon׉ 7cassandra://-9AZcT3T59-iUevF-__YIWwiv5s9AUgdpkdBUR7xRK4'`̰cH$s7׉E