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OCAT
D
Vol. 27, No.26
CAT
-FREE- www.advocatenews.net
Published Every Friday
FOR A BETTER SAUGUS
T
LONGTIME CLUB LEADERS: Donna Manoogian and Lorraine DiMilla, who have served for
many years together as the co-presidents of the Saugus Garden Club, each displayed a citation
presented by the Board of Selectmen in recognition of the club’s 80th anniversary.
Please see inside for the story and another photo. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler)
TE
781-233-4446
Friday, June 27, 2025
The Saugus
Legislative Agenda
Shutting off the Peabody jughandle light
during rush hour topped the selectmen’s wish
list in this week’s discussion with the three
legislators who represent Saugus
By Mark E. Vogler
he three state legislators
who represent
Saugus sound
like they are serious in their
commitment to help reduce
the rush hour traffic jams
on Route 1. Shutting off the
Jughandle traffi c light during
periods of rush hour traffi c
seems like a more doable option,
provided there is no opposition
from communities
that would be aff ected. That
seemed to be the sentiment
of the local lawmakers who
met for more than an hour in
the second fl oor auditorium
at Saugus Town Hall Tuesday
(June 24) morning to discuss
a wide range of projects that
selectmen hope the lawmakers
will help make possible.
“Any time you put a light
in the middle of a major
highway, I can’t see where it
would help traffi c,” Board of
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Page 2
Selectmen Vice Chair Jeffrey
Cicolini said.
“I couldn’t see a scenario
where somebody would
oppose alleviating traffic
[jams],” Cicolini said.
State Sen. Brendan Crighton
(D-Lynn), whose 3rd Essex
Senate District includes
the Town of Saugus, said
he, state Rep. Jessica Giannino
(D-Revere), who represents
Saugus Precincts 3
and 10; and state Rep. Donald
Wong (R-Saugus), who
represents the other eight
Saugus Precincts, plan to
organize a public meeting
that includes legislators outside
the Saugus delegation
who represent communities
along Route 1. That includes
Danvers and PeaTHE
SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 27, 2025
body – where the Jughandle
is located.
The issue was last broached
by the Saugus delegation
about six years ago, but the
issue faded without anything
getting accomplished, Cicolini
recalled.
“It’s a little disheartening,
nothing really came of it,” Cicolini
said.
“I know it’s exponentially
worse than it was six years
ago,” he said.
Barring major opposition
from businesses or communities
along the Route 1 corridor,
selectmen and the Saugus
legislators expressed optimism
about getting the
Jughandle light turned off
during rush hour traffic.
“There might be some
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pushback from certain towns
and businesses that don’t
want that light off, because
it affects certain businesses,”
said Selectman Corinne Riley,
who called for the meeting
between selectmen and
the Saugus legislative delegation
back in March, with a
focus on addressing Route 1
traffic backups caused by the
Jughandle light.
She called the Jughandle
light her “pet peeve.” “This is
low-hanging fruit,” Riley said
following the Tuesday morning
meeting.
Riley would like to see
the Jughandle light shut off
during weekends and between
the hours of 6 a.m.
and 9 a.m. during weekdays
and from 4 to 7 p.m. “It won’t
cost much money to have
it done. It’s just a matter of
turning the light off during
rush hours,” she said.
That will be a decision
yet to be determined by
state officials after studying
past reports regarding traffic
patterns, according to Sen.
Crighton. He said he would
reach out to MassDOT to obtain
that information. “We’ll
talk to the senators and representatives
[of the affected
communities],” Sen. Crighton
said.
“I can’t think what the negative
is [of shutting down
the traffic light during rush
hour],” he said.
State Rep. Wong said he
supports a study of the traffic
patterns to determine the
feasibility for shutting the
light down during certain
times of the day.
State Rep. Giannino mentioned
there’s another aspect
that officials will need
to consider: the traffic flow
of the vehicles that make frequent
use of the Jughandle.
There would need to be coordination
with state officials
regarding the traffic patterns,
she said. “Keep in mind, every
time you change the traffic
pattern, they’re [the traffic]
going to go someplace
else,” Giannino said. She also
suggested that the project
should focus on Saugus and
several communities north of
town so attention wouldn’t
be diverted away from Route
1 in Saugus.
Board of Selectmen Chair
Debra Panetta said she was
impressed by the meeting,
which ended shortly after 11
a.m. “We talked about many
different things concerning
the residents in our community,
including traffic, Route
1, the Jughandle light over
in Peabody, WIN Waste, Karla
Shoes, the condition of Route
1 medians, Foxhill Bridge
floodgates and a number of
other topics,” Panetta said.
“We’re very grateful we
have our partnership with
our state delegation, and I
want to thank the full board.
I think it was a great meeting,
with a lot of interesting
and productive discussion,”
Panetta said.
Discussion about the logistics
of shutting down the
Jughandle light in Peabody
was a primary focus. Here are
some of the other highlights
of the meeting:
• State Rep. Wong said he’s
in the process of contacting
the offices of U.S. Sen. Ed
Markey (D-Massachusetts)
and U.S. Congressman Seth
Moulton about funds to obtain
air quality sensors for
Route 1 “to see if the traffic
is hurting our quality of air.”
• Selectman Anthony Cogliano
wondered if the state
could assist with the demolition
of the dilapidated former
Karla’s Shoes building
located at 1181 Broadway
(Route 1 South). Not only do
town officials consider the
building “an eyesore,” but
also a public safety hazard in
the event it collapses. Board
of Selectmen Chair Panetta
said she worries about pieces
of the building winding
up in the middle of the highway
and putting the motoring
public at risk.
• Selectman Michael Serino
and others wondered if there
are ways to improve access to
MBTA bus transportation on
Route 1. Better bus service
would reduce the traffic flow.
• Attack the trash, weed
and brush problem in the
medians of Route 1.“When
you drive up our section
of Route 1, the median is
not maintained. Picking up
trash and cutting needs to
be done. It really looks shabby,”
Selectman Cicolini said.
“It’s kind of the first impression
when you’re driving in.
Call it the Gateway…the first
thing you see – weeds and
trash,” he said.
• Selectman Riley expressed
concerns about the condition
of the bridges, some of
which show advanced stages
of rusting.
• Board of Selectmen Chair
Panetta asked if there is anything
the state could do to
make Route 1 safer. “I think
we have two or three of the
most dangerous intersections.
Walnut Street is bad.
Every time I drive by there,
there’s an accident,” she said.
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Page 3
Making Saugus better
Pavement improvement projects set to begin throughout town with focus on improving roadway safety and traffic flow
(Editor’s Note: The Town Manager’s
Office issued the following
press release this week.)
T
own Manager Scott C.
Crabtree is pleased to
announce that a series
of pavement improvement
projects within several areas of
Saugus will soon be underway
as an effort to ensure that the
Town’s streets are in the best
possible condition.
The following streets will be
undergoing milling, overlay
paving, roadway reclamation,
and curb replacements as part
of the Town’s paving plan to
improve roadway safety and
traffic flow: Auburn Street,
Eastern Avenue, Dudley Street,
Pinehurst Street, Lewis Street,
A Street, Serino Way, and Laurel
Street at Avon Street.
Please note: The roadways
listed above does not necessarily
mean the entire roadway
will have work performed on it.
The Department of Public
Works will oversee the paveState
Representative Jessica
Giannino Hosts Reception
at Revere’s Casa Lucia
ment improvement projects
throughout Town.
Prep work was scheduled to
begin on Wednesday, June 25,
with the removal of frames and
covers from the streets. Roadway
reclamation efforts are
scheduled to begin on Monday,
July 7, and should be completed
by late summer 2025.
The end date is weather-dependent.
Parking
will be limited in
work zones during construction,
and traffic detours will
be established as required to
allow for this work to reach
completion.
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THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 27, 2025
“Injury or possible death to pond visitors”
A Melrose attorney asks selectmen to order removal of a “dangerous” tree at the entrance to Prankers Pond
By Mark E. Vogler
P
hilip Gindi said he worries
about the potential
life-threatening hazards
of a large, leaning tree that
hangs across the road at the entrance
to Prankers Pond. The old
tree, should it fall, could come
crashing down on the house
across the street, currently occupied
by “a very sick, elderly
handicapped person to whom
I am caretaker,” according to the
Melrose attorney.
That personal concern, along
with his fear of the tree posing
a potential public safety threat
to all who visit Prankers Pond,
prompted Gindi to appear at
8 Norwood St.
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Melrose Attorney Philip
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town offi cials that this tree
on 30 Cliff Rd. at the entrance
of Prankers Pond is “a potential
disaster.” This is a view of
the tree from a car leaving
Prankers Pond. (Saugus Advocate
photo by Mark E. Vogler)
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Tuesday night’s (June 24) Board
of Selectmen’s meeting to speak
out during the citizens comment
period. “I am here to formally request
the immediate inspection
and removal of a hazardous tree
located at 30 Cliff Rd. at the entrance
of Prankers Pond that
poses a direct and substantial
risk to public safety,” Gindi said at
Tuesday night’s meeting, reading
from a letter he addressed
to the Board of Selectmen. “The
tree is dangerously leaning at
an unusual angle toward the entrance
to the Pond.”
“My concern is should the tree
fall, it will defi nitely cause propMAKING
A PUBLIC SAFETY REQUEST: Melrose Attorney
Philip Gindi made a formal request at Tuesday’s meeting
for the Board of Selectmen to order the removal of a “hazardous
tree” at the entrance to Prankers Pond. (Saugus Advocate
photo by Mark E. Vogler)
erty damage (cyclists and motorist),
bodily injury or possible
death to Pond visitors,” he said.
“Additionally, it will certainly
damage the property across
the street and possibly injure
the occupants or visitors therein.
The aforementioned property
is occupied by a very sick,
elderly handicapped person to
whom I am a caretaker,” he said.
Gindi provided selectmen
with a package of emails and
other correspondence related
to public concerns about the
tree – including some concerns
expressed by a former Cliff Road
resident dating back more than
fi ve years ago. The attorney expressed
concerns that the town
has the power to address the
matter and issue an order to
have the tree removed but has
yet to do so.
But during the meeting, Board
of Selectmen Vice Chair Jeff rey
Cicolini advised that there’s
nothing the town can do about
the situation because the tree
is healthy and is also on private
property. But Cicolini noted
that the tree does hang over
the road while leaning toward
the property where Gindi acts
as a caretaker. Cicolini suggested
that Gingi consult with Town
Counsel John Vasapolli “and get
his take on the whole situation.”
Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree
said Vasapolli has already
made a determination that the
tree sits on private property and
therefore the town doesn’t have
any involvement in the matter.
However, Crabtree said he
agrees that Gingi having a conversation
with Vasapolli about
the situation “would be helpful.”
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Page 5
Selectmen off er a Bouquet of Compliments
Saugus Garden Club receives a citation honoring the 80th anniversary of its creation
as a beloved town organization
By Mark E. Vogler
T
he agenda for Tuesday
night’s Board of Selectmen’s
meeting was light.
But the opening minutes of
the session were heavy in high
praise that selectmen heaped
on the Saugus Garden Club
to go with a special citation in
recognition of the group’s 80th
anniversary. “They do so much
for the town,” said Board of Selectmen
Chair Debra Panetta,
herself a longtime member of
the club.
“It’s not just having a green
thumb. They do so much volunteerism,
so much charity work
in our community. And they’ve
been around for 80 years and
they’re incredibly active,” Panetta
said.
“And we’re thrilled tonight to
give you a citation on behalf of
the Board of Selectmen in the
Town of Saugus on your anniversary,”
she said.
Actually, the board had two
citations, which they presented
to the club’s two longtime
Co-Presidents, Donna Manoogian
and Lorraine DiMilla.
Panetta invited each of her
fellow board members to off er
remarks about the special occasion
of honoring a group that
originated eight decades ago.
CELEBRATING 80 YEARS: 15 members of the Saugus Garden
Club took a moment to celebrate with the Board of Selectmen,
at Tuesday night’s meeting, the occasion of the club’s
80th Anniversary. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler)
“Eighty years is a long time to
keep something going,” Selectman
Corinne Riley said. Riley
thanked the group for its longtime
commitment to the betterment
of the town and said
she hoped the club would be
around for another 80 years to
do wonderful things.
“Thank you for coming out
tonight in this horrible heat
wave that we’re having,” Selectman
Anthony Cogliano
said, referring to the 100-degree
weather that hit Saugus
and many other communities
throughout Essex County and
the state.
“And it’s nice to see you,” Cogliano
said.
Selectman Michael Serino
called the club “an asset to our
community.” “You do so much
for the town,” he said.
Board of Selectmen Vice Chair
Jeff rey Cicolini lauded the club’s
longevity. “Congratulations…
eighty years…truly amazing,”
Cicolini said.
“Seeing what you do around
town and how active the group
is, is truly remarkable. …It’s a
true testament to the dedication
of everybody. Thank you
for all you do. And again, congratulations,”
he said.
Panetta asked Donna Manoogian
to off er a brief history
of the club before the 15 Garden
Club lady members (there
are a few men members now)
who showed up for the meeting
posed for photos with the
selectmen and the town manager.
“It
was formed in 1945 and it
was part of the Victory Gardens
that was sweeping the counGerry
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try,” Manoogian recalled of the
private gardens of vegetables,
fruits and herbs that American
were encouraged to plant to
augment their rations and also
as a morale booster during and
after World War II.
“And from that, 28 people
were in the beginning stages.
And right now, we have just
over 70 members,” she said.
Manoogian noted there was
a dip in membership back
in the 1960s and the 1970s,
which prompted the club to
switch from daytime meetings
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THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 27, 2025
Prayers and support for Lt. Bossi
Saugus selectmen joined Gov. and offi cials from across the state in expressing their concerns for the state police commander
and longtime town resident who was nearly killed by a revere teen who drove over him with a stolen motorcycle on Monday
By Mark E. Vogler
B
efore adjourning until
after the July Fourth
holiday on Tuesday
night, selectmen pledged
their support and prayers for
state Police Lt. Donald Bossi,
who suffered life-threatening
injuries earlier this week
after being struck by a teenager
driving a stolen motorcycle.
“I’d just like to extend
my prayers and best wishes
for a speedy recovery to State
Trooper Lt. Donnie Bossi,” Selectman
Corinne Riley said of
the longtime town resident.
“He was a victim of a hitand-run
on Revere Beach
Boulevard,” she said.
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A LONGTIME SAUGUS RESIDENT: State Police Lt. Donald
Bossi hails from East Boston, but bought a home in East
Saugus in 1994 and has lived in town ever since. (Courtesy
Photo by the Massachusetts State Police To The Saugus Advocate)
“It’s a dangerous job and I
want to thank him for all he
does to keep everybody safe.
My best again to the Bossi
family, and Donnie – have a
speedy recovery,” she said.
Lt. Bossi, station commander
of the State Police Revere
Barracks, was seriously injured
shortly before 5 p.m.
on Monday (June 23) when
a Revere teenager drove over
him, ditched his motorcycle
and then fl ed the scene.
“The Massachusetts State
Police would like to express
our appreciation for the public
support of Lieutenant
Donald Bossi, his family, and
our Department in the aftermath
of this terrible incident,”
Colonel Geoff rey Noble
– head of the Massachusetts
State Police – said in statement
on Tuesday.
“Yesterday’s senseless crash
could have proven fatal if
not for the resilience and extraordinary
strength of Lieutenant
Bossi, and the care he
received on scene, in transit,
and at the hospital. Our
community is safer because
of the many Troopers who
set their feelings aside in the
aftermath of this event to do
their jobs and meet the moment
by apprehending the
fl eeing suspect. We remain
very grateful for these positive
developments,” Col. Noble
said.
Akram El Moukhtari, 18, of
Revere, later turned himself
in. He was charged with assault
and battery with a dangerous
weapon, receiving a
stolen vehicle and leaving
the scene of personal injury.
Officials say Bossi was
thrown 45 feet across the
road, leaving him with serious
injuries. The injured
trooper was transported to
Mass General Hospital and
was initially reported to be
in critical condition. His condition
had improved to stable
condition by press time
this week.
Governor Maura Healey
noted this was the second
time this month that a state
trooper was struck while in
the roadway. “This incident
is another stark reminder of
BOSSI | SEE PAGE 8
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Page 7
Level Up at the Library with Reading Dragons
register for the Kids 2025 Summer reading Program
dren’s Room at the library or
visit the kids’ Summer Reading
page on our website. Registration
opens Wednesday,
June 18.
Twenty minutes is all it
takes!
The Saugus Public Schools
recommend that students
read at least 20 minutes a day
this summer. The program is
open to young people, preschool
through 6th grade.
We’ll have their favorite tiREADING
DRAGONS | SEE PAGE 16
(Editor’s Note: The following
info is from a press release issued
by the Saugus Public Library.)
A
s
the school year
winds down, the Saugus
Public Library is
winding up. If you’re looking
for fun, educational activities
and summer programming
to support your kids’ learning,
stop by the Saugus Public
Library. This summer, the
Library presents “Level Up
at the Library with READING
DRAGONS,” the 2025 Summer
Reading program. Activities
include literacy support,
story times, discounted
museum passes, Massachusetts
park passes, take &
make crafts and all your favorite
books!
How to register
Families are encouraged
to register their kids for the
dragon-themed program using
the Beanstack app. It’s
easy — just download the
Beanstack app, register under
the Saugus Public Library and
you’re on your way. If you’ve
participated before, simply
open the Beanstack app and
register for the 2025 Summer
Reading Challenge. For
more information, or to register
in person, stop by the Chil50
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THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 27, 2025
The Battle of Bunker Hill Reenacted
This weekend event in Gloucester proved to be a delightful experience
Spectators from Saugus:
Paul Kenworthy and Monique
Todd enjoyed the
dramatic battle reenactment
and the tasty refreshments
from food trucks at
the event. (Photo courtesy of
Laura Eisener)
By Laura Eisener
O
n Saturday and Sunday
last weekend, there
was a great reenactColonial
soldiers plan their strategy amid the smoke of
battle as they look out over the harbor toward the British
ships. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener)
ment of the Battle of Bunker
Hill, which took place at Stage
Fort Park in Gloucester. This
was one of many events happening
this spring and summer
to commemorate the
250th anniversary of pivotal
events during the War for Independence.
Many of the early
actions took place in Massachusetts,
including Leslie’s
Retreat in Salem in February
1775, the Battles of Lexington
and Concord in April
1775 and the Battle of Bunker
Hill in June 1775. Since a
reenactment event such as
this could not be held at Bunker
Hill Monument in Charlestown,
and Gloucester could
offer some similar fields and
coastal features as well as ample
parking and visitors’ services,
the event took place
on the fields and beaches at
Stage Fort Park.
My family found the parking
The hilly terrain provides a view toward the water as the
Colonial militia attempts to defend their farms. (Photo courtesy
of Laura Eisener)
BOSSI | FROM PAGE 6
the dangers our law enforcement
officers face every day,” the governor
said.
“I am grateful for their continued
bravery and service,” she said.
Lt. Bossi’s hometown is East Boston,
Mass. He went to Don Bosco
Technical High School and graduated
in 1986. He studied Criminology
at Saint Leo University, receiving
his degree in 1986. He bought
a home in East Saugus in 1994
and got married to a Saugus native,
and they raised three children
– all who graduated from Saugus
High School.
Lt. Bossi’s wife – Susan Bossi – is
convenient, traffic not terrible,
narration of the battle informative
and entertaining,
ocean breeze refreshing and
local food delicious, and all in
all the event proved to be a
delightful experience. While
the weekend was full of activities,
we could only attend on
Sunday due to the Strawberry
Festival on Saturday in Saugus.
“Sutlers” in canvas tents
sold reproduction clothing,
a longtime Saugus educator who is
currently a reading teacher at Belmonte
STEAM Academy.
“I know Donnie through his wife,”
Selectman Riley said.
“I’m closer to her. What I know is
he’s a nice guy, wonderful husband
and dad. And obviously a trooper
that puts his life on the line every
day,” she said.
Before the crash, Suffolk Assistant
District Attorney John Verner said
in court, suspect El Moukhtari sped
through a red light while “driving
recklessly” and was “popping
wheelies” on the stolen motorcycle.
Verner said Bossi was captured on
video exiting his cruiser and stepping
into a lane of traffic. Seconds
The “lobsterbacks” retreat toward their ship (passing a few
modern Cape Ann lobster boats in the harbor). (Photo courtesy
of Laura Eisener)
books, iron products, historic
style housewares, souvenir
t-shirts, baked goods and
many other items. In another
corner of the park, food
trucks sold an assortment of
items from local businesses:
lunch fare, candy, ice cream,
later, El Moukhtari allegedly drove
by at a high rate of speed.
“What a horrific experience. People
disrespecting law enforcement
has to stop,” Board of Selectmen
Chair Debra Panetta said.
“I’m wishing Lt. Bossi a speedy
recover from his injuries,” she said.
“The Bossi Family would like to
thank the public and Lieutenant
Bossi’s colleagues at the Barracks
and across the job for their outpouring
of support,” according to
a statement issued by the State
Police.
“They respectfully request privacy
at this time while they focus
on Lieutenant Bossi’s recovery,” the
statement said.
fried dough, crepes with savory
or sweet fillings, brisket
and more. The visitor’s center
in the park provided amenities,
such as clean restrooms,
local history information and
a shady porch with rocking
chairs.
BETTER | FROM PAGE 3
Town Manager Scott Crabtree said the
pavement improvements will result in better
quality roadways for the community.
Safe roadways improve traffic flow, reduce
accidents, and make it easier for everyone
to get to where they need to be, he noted.
“It is a top priority of this Board of Selectmen
and administration to continue to
make important and beneficial improvements
to our community’s infrastructure,”
said Town Manager Crabtree. “We are happy
to continue to provide these services to
our residents and families of Saugus.”
The Town would like to thank residents
in advance for their patience and cooperation
during this construction project. For
more information, please contact the Saugus
DPW at 781-231-4143.
The British attempt another assault up the hill. (Photo courtesy
of Laura Eisener)
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Page 9
Saugus High School Girls Lacrosse Banquet
When: June 9, 2025
Who: Saugus HS Girls LAX Banquet
Location:
Mix 360 Saugus MA
Photographer: Emily Harney
JV Rookie of the Year, Vjona
Chantha.
Saugus varsity girls lacrosse coach Barbara
Guarente, senior captain Ashley
Rezendes, JV coach Ellen Fee and assistant
coach Rob LaMontange.
Saugus varsity girls lacrosse coach
Barbara Guarente, senior captain
Caitlyn Dixon, JV coach Ellen Fee and
assistant coach Rob LaMontange.
Saugus varsity girls lacrosse coach
Barbara Guarente, senior captain
Tori Carter, JV coach Ellen Fee and
assistant coach Rob LaMontange.
Varsity Rookie of the Year, Jordyn
Ripley-Deminski.
JV girls lacrosse coach Ellen Fee, varsity girls lacrosse
coach Barbara Guarente, and assistant coach
Rob LaMontange celebrate the 32 players from the
2025 season at Mix 360 in Saugus Tuesday evening.
The Unsung Hero award was
presented to Caitlyn Dixon.
Presented with the 2024
All-Star recognition; Ashley
Rezendes and Aly Mabee.
Mabee was also recognized
for her career high of
101 points.
Presented with the 2025 All-Star
recognition; Jordyn Ripley-Deminski
and Caitlyn Dixon.
2026 Saugus girls lacrosse
captains were selected at
Tuesday’s banquet. They
are incoming seniors; Natalie
Justice, Brooke Diaz
and Mara Farella.
Captains and graduating seniors; Ashley Rezendes, Caitlyn Dixon and Tori Carter
presented gifts to JV coach Ellen Fee.
Captains and
graduating
seniors; Ashley
Rezendes,
Caitlyn Dixon
and Tori Carter
presented
gifts to assistant
coach Rob
LaMontange.
Captains and
graduating
seniors; Ashley
Rezendes,
Caitlyn Dixon
and Tori Carter
presented
gifts to head
coach Barbara
Guarente.
Outgoing seniors
and girls
varsity lacrosse
captains;
Ashley
Rezendes, Tori
Carter, and
Caitlyn Dixon.
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THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 27, 2025
Saugus High School Softball Team Hosts Season Banquet
S
augus High School Sachems
Girls’ Varsity Softball Team reflected
on fond memories from
the past season during Monday’s banquet
at Rosaria’s. Coaches read a paragraph
about each player before announcing
the award winner.
(Advocate photos by Tara Vocino)
Julia Strout
received one
of the Coaches’
Award
from Head
Varsity Coach
Steve Almquist.
Shown
from left to right, are: Coaches’ Award recipients
Lani Guadalupe Perez, Leila Barrozo, Juliana
Valentine, Sophia Natalucci with Head Junior Varsity
Coach Amanda Naso.
Head Coach Steve Almquist read a
paragraph about each player before
announcing award winners.
Susan Recupero
received the
Forever Award
Sachem Award
from Head Junior
Varsity
Coach Amanda
Naso.
Head Varsity Coach Steve
Almquist thanked 7th
grader Hannah Strout for
her audio and visual skills
throughout the season.
Syracuse University-bound
Maya Pina received another
Coaches’ Award from Head
Varsity Coach Steve Almquist.
Sophia
Natalucci received
one of the Coaches’ Award
from Head Junior Varsity
Coach Amanda Naso.
Alexa Morello received the
Unsung Hero Award from
Head Varsity Coach Steve
Almquist.
Danica Schena received the
Gold Glove Award, following
in her sister Cat’s footsteps,
from Head Varsity
Coach Steve Almquist.
Members of the Junior Varsity team — Top row, shown from left to right, are: Katie Hashem,
Leeomi Pagan, Lani Guadalupe Perez, Leila Barrozo, Riley Bruno, Skyler O’Brien, Cris
Tejeda and Head Junior Varsity Coach Amanda Naso. Bottom row, shown from left to
right, are: Rebecca Louis-Jacques, Susan Recurpero, Juliana Valentine, Isabella Cantrel,
Sophia Natalucci and Lil’ Sachem Liam Adams.
Lily Ventre received the
Most Valuable Player Award
from Head Varsity Coach
Steve Almquist.
Members of the varsity team. Back row, shown from left to right, are: Coach Mike Shaw,
Arianna Chianca, Sydney Deleidi, Taylor Deleidi, Hannah Duong, Coach Brooke Westmoreland,
Alannah Duong, Alexa Morello, Julia Strout, Sofia McCarrier, Angelina Dow, Mya
Pina, Danica Schena, Coach Emma Howard, Maria Silva, Lily Ventre. Front row, shown
from left to right, are: Head Coach Steve Almquist and Coach Anthony Ascolese. (Courtesy
photo, Hannah Strout)
Sofia McCarrier received the
Rookie of the Year Award
from Head Varsity Coach
Steve Almquist.
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Page 11
Annual Strawberry Festival raises
$1K for Historical Society
By Tara Vocino
A
pproximately $1,000
was raised for the Historical
Society, and
money went toward the Garden
Club programming during
Saturday’s Annual Strawberry
Festival at the American Legion
Hall.
“Before refrigeration, June
was the only time you can get
strawberries,” Historical Society
President Laura Eisener said.
“The saying goes, ‘Never marry
a girl who wants strawberries
in January.’”
Frederic Tudor harvested
ice from Stephen’s Pond and
Lily Pond in 1806 to begin early
refrigeration efforts. People
used to pick strawberries
in backyards. Strawberries are
91 percent water, according
to Eisener.
Garden Club Co-President
Donna Manoogian said they
Lifelong Saugus Historical Society Board of Directors
member Allen Humphries served strawberry shortcake
to Ed Decareau, 95, who said it’s not real whipped cream,
along with a classic New England tradition — a Moxie. (Advocate
photos by Tara Vocino)
wrote a $100 check to the Historical
Society. The club sold
plants outside alongside local
vendors.
The turnout was so large that
Eisener was afraid that they’d
run out of strawberries.
Everett resident Kathleen
Carlton, who was wearing a
strawberry t-shirt, said it was a
lot of fun. Malden resident Linda
Roller, who was enjoying a
Doreen and Frank Moccia
bought squash and green
pepper plants for their garden
and hope bunnies don’t
get at them first.
strawberry shortcake, said the
event welcomes summer.
Outside on the lawn, Belmonte
STEAM Academy fifth
grader Nicole Hurrondo, 10,
bought Jibbitz pens from
vendor Danielle Hodgkins. “It
showcases my personality,”
Hurrondo said. “If I’m getting
stressed, I can play with them.”
D
elaney Roscoe, of
Saugus, a student
at Fairfield University
in Connecticut, received
Dean’s List Honors for the
spring 2025 semester. In
order to be placed on the
Dean’s List, students must
have completed a minimum
of 12 credit hours in
a semester, have no outstanding
or incomplete
grades for that semester
and have attained a semester
grade point average of
3.50 or better.
ANNIVERSARY |
FROM PAGE 5
and lunches at members’
homes to evening meetings,
so the club could accommodate
more women
who were working. That
change helped boost membership,
she said. “And now
we’re looking at some split
between evenings and daytime
meetings to accommodate
more [members],” Manoogian
said.
Over the years, the Saugus
Linda Roller, of Malden, and Matthew Vocino said “Summer
is here.”
Shown from left to right: Saugus Historical Society Secretary
Joanie Allbee, Saugus Garden Club member Karen
Rakinic, Historical Society President Laura Eisener, Everett
resident Kathleen Carlton and Historical Society member/Garden
Club Treasurer Randy-Sue Abber during Saturday’s
Strawberry Festival at the American Legion Hall.
Garden Club has developed
a reputation as a great collaborator
among community
organizations, working
with other groups to make
events more successful. “We
partner with SAVE. We partner
with the library and the
Friends of the Library and
any organization that really
wants us to come and
speak,” Manoogian said.
“We’re very happy to
come and tell them a little
bit about the history of the
club,” she said.
Town Manager Scott C.
Shown from left to right: Saugus Garden Club members
Nancy Sayles, Maureen Murray and Nelida Mendez, member/Historical
Society member Debra Panetta, members
Ruth Berg and Andrew Whitcomb, co-president Donna Manoogian,
members Laura DeBenedictis and Dottie Corbett
and Secretary Susan Hobbs.
Crabtree, like the selectmen,
marveled at the club’s continued
success for so long.
“I just think it’s fantastic,” he
said, stressing his amazement
that the club is still
going strong after 80 years.
“It’s a great organization,”
Shown from left to right: vendor Danielle Hodgkins, Mia
Hurrondo and Belmonte STEAM Academy fifth grader Nicole
Hurrondo, 10, bought Jibbitz pens.
Crabtree said.
“It’s such a community
building group of people
that get together. It’s really
very impressive,” he said.
Fairfield University
congratulates
spring 2025 Dean’s
List awardee
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THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 27, 2025
The Sounds of Saugus
By Mark E. Vogler
Good morning, Saugus
Town Election 2025 is definitely
on, at least unofficially.
Officially, the election cycle
will begin three weeks from
Monday (July 21) when candidates
will be able to pull their
nomination papers from the
Town Clerk’s Office. But Precinct
7 Town Meeting Frank
Federico got the campaign
season started early by declaring
himself a candidate
for one of the five seats on
the Board of Selectmen. He
had a political function at the
VFW that he said raised about
$4,000 for his campaign war
chest.
I’ve spoken with one other
candidate who also may be
declaring shortly. Stay tuned
for that development if and
when it happens.
In the name of fair play, I
would be glad to sit down
with any candidate for the
Board of Selectmen over tea
or coffee for an interview on
why you are running and the
background that qualifies
you to serve on one of the
town’s most important elected
positions. I will also make
the same offer for candidates
seeking a two-year term on
the Saugus School Committee.
The
Town Clerk’s Office will
decide who the official candidates
are for this fall’s town
election shortly after Sept. 16
– the deadline for filing the
required nomination papers.
But if you want to commence
your campaign as soon as
possible and get the word out
earlier, feel free to contact me
to schedule an interview. And
this offer applies to challengers
and incumbents alike.
Stay tuned.
A “Zip Trip” today
Today should be a fun and
exciting day for Saugus folks
who happen to be hanging
around Saugus Center, particularly
near the entrance to the
historic Town Hall. How does
three hours of live telecasting
of Saugus people sound?
From the young at heart to
the senior citizens; from ordinary
folks to prominent town
officials and community leador
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.
Saugus United Parish
Food Pantry
The Saugus United Parish
Food Pantry welcomes all
neighbors facing food insecurity
on Fridays from 9:3011
a.m. at 50 Essex St. in the
basement of Cliftondale Congregational
Church.
“Sideshow Tony” Gangi returns
Monday
Join us for an evening of
THE FINISHED PRODUCT: Local Boy Scout Liam Martin, who has been working on an Eagle
Scout project at Breakheart Reservation, completed his renovation of an old fire pit last Saturday
(June 21). State Representative Donald Wong presented him with a citation to honor
his work. Assisting in the event were the Friends of Breakheart. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus
Advocate).
ers; from some of the most interesting
folks of Saugus you
would ever want to meet.
Does that sound good?
Well, it’s all part of a “Zip
Trip” that Boston 25 has been
planning for weeks to do – live
from 7 to 10 a.m. today – Friday,
June 27. Jessica Howard
DeThomas, the Senior Morning
Producer for the television
station, tells me they will
spend a few hours this morning
interviewing Saugus folks
about what makes the town
special.
With the event taking place
at Town Hall, about the best
ambassador you can have
from Saugus would be Town
Manager Scott C. Crabtree.
And Jessica tells me she’s expecting
him to be there to
opine about the attractions
of his hometown.
There will be a special
guest from the Giggles Comedy
Club, Janice Jarosz from
the Parson Roby Chapter of
Daughters of the American
Revolution (DAR) and Saugus
Veterans Council President
Steve Castinetti are among
some of the prominent community
leaders who will be
there. Dance Junction dancers
from Saugus will perform
and there will be representatives
from Saugus Karate, Saugus
Little League and other
groups on hand. Some will
perform. Others will share
with Boston 25 their views
on what makes Saugus a special
town on the North Shore.
Jessica tells me there will be a
few tents set up by local businesses
who will participate in
the event.
If you happen to be free today,
catch up with the crowd
camped outside of Town Hall.
Be a passive observer or be
passionate in talking about
the town if the camera lights
shine on you!
How often do Saugonians
get three hours of facetime
on live TV for a non-sporting
event? The last time Saugus
was the subject of a Boston
25 “Zip Trip” was 2011.
This week’s “SHOUT OUTs”
We had a few “Shout Outs”
this week:
From weekly Saugus Advocate
columnist Laura Eisener:
“I’d like to give some shoutouts
to people who helped at
the strawberry festival: Joanie
Allbee, Karen Rakinic, Randy
Abber, Jayne Parrott, and
Allen Humphries who spent
most of the day in the Legion
Hall preparing and selling
shortcakes, hot dogs, etc. and
to the Saugus Garden Club
and all the vendors who enlivened
the Roby School lawn
on Saturday.”
From Precinct 6 Town Meeting
Member Jeanie Bartolo:
“This ‘Shout Out’ is for Eric
who works for the DPW as
summer help. I met Eric this
morning picking up the trash
in Cliftondale Square with
a bucket and a stick. Such
a hard working and friendly
young man. So this big
‘Shout Out’ is for him for doing
such an unpleasant job in
this scorching heat. The residents
of Cliftondale are grateful
to him.”
From Jessica Neeley, camp
director and afterschool program
director for the Saugus
YMCA: “to the Saugus PD and
Saugus Fire. They came out
and did an event at Camp
Hillside.”
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
Barrel Organ Music & Italian
History on Monday, June 30,
from 6 to 7 p.m., in the Community
Room of the Saugus
Public Library. Come
hear some good music like
you used to hear in Boston’s
North End, learn some Italian
American history and maybe
sing along to some favorite
songs. Performer Anthony
“Sideshow Tony” Gangi is
back at the library by popular
demand! No reservations
required.
A special call for art
Here’s a special request
from Tori Darnell, co-chair of
the Saugus Cultural Council:
I wanted to share with you
that the Saugus Cultural
Council has partnered with
Bike to the Sea to host an
outdoor art show along the
Northern Strand Trail on Saturday,
July 19th. This special
1-day event is to celebrate local
creativity and community
spirit by showcasing artwork
from residents of all ages
who live along this community-connecting
trail.
I am reaching out to community
groups and leaders
along the trail; Everett, Malden,
Revere, Saugus, and
Lynn, for their support in promoting
the call for artists for
this community-connecting
event. Artists are to submit
artwork through this online
form: https://forms.gle/
sM9KLBzskdJHKaUc6/. ArtTHE
SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 13
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Page 13
SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 12
work deadline entry is July
1st, 2025.
Tori can be reached at 339440-1017
for more details.
Help plan the Second Annual
Saugus Cultural Festival
Join
the Saugus Cultural
Festival Subcommittee to
help organize the 2nd Annual
Saugus Cultural Festival!
The Saugus Cultural Council
is looking for Saugus resident
volunteers to serve on
a Subcommittee to help plan
and organize the 2026 Saugus
Cultural Festival, which is happening
on Saturday, March
21, 2026, at the Saugus Middle
High School!
Help out with:
• Coordinate diverse entertainers,
food vendors and miscellaneous
activities
• Work with Saugus 411
Committee on community/information
tables for community
groups & local businesses/nonprofits
•
Support in social media,
print and other digital marketing
•
Support in crowdsourcing
for grants and festival sponsors
•
And more!
Other commitments:
• Monthly evening meetings
starting August 2025; Subcommittee
may meet twice a
month starting October 2025
until March 2026.
• Share progress at Saugus
Cultural Council public meetings
every first Tuesday starting
September 2025 until
March 2026
Interested in volunteering?
Email us at saugusculturalcouncil@gmail.com
by
July 31.
Saugus Sachems Summer
Track Camp 2025
Coach Christopher Tarantino
– also known affectionately
as “Coach T” – has announced
plans for his Summer
Track Camp. Registration
is already underway.
“This vibrant program, now
in its 20th year, is where student
athletes from a wide
range of ages come together
to listen well, work hard,
and have fun!” Coach T said
in an email.
Track Camp runners will
be guided by Coach 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 or
the advanced techniques of
this dynamic sport, track and
field,” Coach T. said.
Here’s a summary of what
interested kids and their parents
need to know.
Who: 5-18 years old.
Where: Belmonte Track.
When: 6-8 p.m. unless otherwise
noted.
June 23-27: final registration
week/returning athlete
training.
June 30-July 4: first formal
week.
July 19: Summer Showdown
in Cranston, R.I.
July 23: wrap up.
Cost: $300 first year ($250
if registered by June 1), $200
returning with uniform, $150
if three years or more in summer
program; includes pasta
dinner, t-shirt, uniform and
entry into Summer Showdown.
For
any questions, further
information or to register,
please contact Coach Christopher
Tarantino (Coach T) at
781-854-6778 or christophertarantino24@gmail.com
Narcan
presentation July
14 at Senior Center
The Saugus Everett Elks
Drug Awareness Committee
will hold a Narcan Presentation
at the Saugus Senior Center
(466 Central St. in Saugus)
on Monday, July 14, at 10 a.m.
This is a free hour-long presentation.
Become educated
on how to save lives from
an accidental overdose. Light
refreshments will be served.
Call the Senior Center at 781231-4178
to reserve your seat.
Walk-ins are welcome.
An ongoing demonstration
Saugus
resident Lin Bell, a
member of the new group
called Saugus & Friends Resist,
held another demonstration
on the Town Hall lawn
last Saturday (June 21) to express
displeasure with the
current White House administration
running the country.
“Last Saturday, June 21st,
we had another successful
standout with quite a lot of
THE BEST PICNIC SPOT THIS SUMMER: On a hot, lazy day, when a Saugonian of any age wants
to get relief in the shade without having to worry about getting bitten by mosquitos, there’s
usually an open table at the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site where family or friends
can gather – or a place for a lawn blanket – to enjoy a bagged lunch and a cold drink. (Saugus
Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler)
support from passersby,” Bell
wrote in an email to the newspaper.
“We
will continue our weekly
standouts indefinitely every
Saturday morning from 11
am till noon at the corner of
Central and Hamilton Streets
alongside Town Hall. Please
join us to Resist if you feel:
Our Rights are being threatened
and our Constitution
ignored. Checks and Balances
are being removed,” she
said. “For further information,
contact us at saugusfriendsresist@gmail.com.”
Visitor
Services available
at Saugus Iron Works
The Saugus Iron Works National
Historic Site has begun
its “visitors’ services,” marking
the opening of restrooms and
the museum. This is the expected
schedule of tours for
the summer: Wednesday–
Sunday at 11 a.m., house
tours, 1/2 hour; Wednesday–
Sunday at 2 p.m., industrial
site tours, which will include
waterwheel demonstrations
when staffing permits. On
Fridays and Saturdays only,
there will also be a 10 a.m.
waterwheel demonstration.
Visitors’ services will end on
Oct. 31.
Library events
• Henna For Teens: Get a free
Henna Design tattoo from a
professional Henna artist; July
21 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. in the
Brooks Room. Registration required.
Fifth grade and up.
• Level Up at your library:
Now through Aug. 20, submit
what you read this summer
and you may win an Amazon
gift card. Enter to win by
going to our website and filling
out the book review form.
Grades 7-12.
•Adult Summer Reading
Contest at the library: June
18-August 20; adults ages 18
and up can participate in our
Adult Summer Reading Contest
for the chance to win a
gift card to a local restaurant!
Fill out an online (www.sauguspubliclibrary.org)
book review
form for every book you
read over the summer, and
you will be entered to win!
The more books you read, the
greater your chances of winning!
Graphic novels, manga,
cookbooks, e-books and audio
books count, too. Good
luck!
Buy-A-Brick for a veteran
The Saugus War Monument
Committee, once again, is
sponsoring the Buy-A-Brick
Program to honor all those
who have served their country.
If you would like to purchase
one in the name of
someone who is presently
serving or has served, in the
memory of a loved one, or just
someone from your family,
school, etc., the general pricing
is $100 for a 4” x 8” brick
(three lines) or $200 for a 8” x
8” brick (five lines). Each line
has a maximum of 15 characters.
The improvement and
upkeep of the monument on
the corner of Winter and Central
Streets rely on the generosity
of donors through fundraising.
The
brick application must
be in by September 10 to ensure
the bricks will be ready
for Veterans Day. Please contact
Corinne Riley at 781-2317995
for more information
and applications.
C.H.a.R.M. Center is open
The Town of Saugus Solid
Waste/Recycling Department
announced that the Center
for Hard to Recycle Materials
THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 15
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THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 27, 2025
Saugus Gardens in the Summer
Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable
By Laura Eisener
S
augus Garden Club
member Nancy Sayles
and her husband Lloyd
Sayles have a delightful garden
throughout the growing
season, with all sorts
of plants to attract pollinators.
Right now it is absolutely
full of bright yellow,
orange and red flowers, as
the yellow sundrops (Oenothera
fruticosa), threadleaf
tickseed (Coreopsis verticillata
‘Zagreb’), ‘Moonshine’
yarrow (Achillea tomentosa
‘Moonshine’), ‘Vintage Red’
yarrow (Achillea ‘Vintage
Red’) and orange butterfly
weed (Asclepias tuberosa)
are loaded with flowers. Several
of these perennials are
known for blooming repeatedly
throughout the summer.
If the faded blossoms
are removed regularly, the
tickseed will flower continuously
from June until late
October.
Sundrops (Oenothera fruticosa)
are the daytime blooming
cousins of the taller evening
primrose (Oenothera
biennis), which opens its
blossoms just before dusk.
Sundrops typically grow 2-3
feet tall, and their primary
pollinators are bees. Hummingbirds
also like the nectar,
and the seeds are eaten
by a variety of birds, especially
goldfinches. They are
native to 30 U.S. states, including
all of the New England
ones. In our area they
are likely to keep blooming
until August.
One of the perennials
most needed by butterflies
is the bright orange butterfly
weed (Asclepias tuberosa)
which is a host plant for
monarch butterflies (Danaus
plexippus). It is one of a few
species of milkweed, including
common milkweed (Asclepias
syriaca), swamp milkweed
(Asclepias incarnata)
and a few other milkweed
species, that can support the
young caterpillar from egg
hatching until it becomes a
butterfly. The diet of milkweed
allows the monarch
larvae to become bad tasting
and even poisonous to
potential predators, while
supplying all its necessary
nutrients. Butterfly weed is
also the plant that the famous
New England poet
Robert Frost wrote about in
“The Tuft of Flowers” where
he is involved in the hay industry.
Someone mowed a
field earlier in the morning,
and it is his job to turn the
mowed grass over to aid its
drying. It seems a lonely task
since he and the mower before
him perform their task
without seeing anyone else.
When a butterfly calls his attention
to the tuft of butterfly
weed that the mower left
standing, Frost feels there
has been some communication
of shared feeling for the
flowers and, perhaps, for the
butterfly between the earlier
worker who did the mowing,
A mother duck and her 11 babies swam in the shallow water of the Saugus River at the Iron
Works turning basin at low tide. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener)
Splish, splash! A grackle took
a bath to cool off from the
heat earlier this week. (Photo
courtesy of Laura Eisener)
and he who followed after.
Two species of yarrow,
‘Zagreb’ tickseed blooms in the front yard garden of Nancy
and Lloyd Sayles in Lynnhurst. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener)
while not native, add color to
the garden and supply nectar
to pollinators, especially
several species of bees. The
hybrid ‘Moonshine’ yarrow
has bright yellow flowers in
flat clusters and silvery foliage.
Both add a lot of visual
interest over most of the
summer. ‘Vintage Red’ yarrow,
a taller species with
green ferny leaves, is also a
long bloomer, and both of
these are unlikely to be eaten
by rabbits or other wildlife
because of the scent of
the leaves.
With the hot weather we
have had for several days
this week, access to water
for cooling off has been important
for people and wildlife.
The birdbath in my garden
has had plenty of use
Orange butterfly weed and yellow sundrops bloom in the
Sayles garden this week. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener)
The lacy white flowers of elderberry are attractive and abundant
in June. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener)
GARDENS | SEE PAGE 15
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Page 15
SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 13
(C.H.a.R.M.) has opened for
the season, with normal operational
hours of Wednesdays
and Saturdays from 8
a.m. to 2 p.m.
The C.H.a.R.M. Center is located
at 515 Main St., Saugus,
behind the Saugus Department
of Public Works. Residents
are welcome to use the
C.H.a.R.M. Center for their recycling
needs. Saugus was the
first municipality in Massachusetts
to open a C.H.a.R.M.
Center.
The C.H.a.R.M. Center accepts
the following items at
no cost to residents:
• Bottles and cans
• Paper and cardboard
• Scrap metal
• Shoes, clothes and other
textiles
• Fluorescent light bulbs
and batteries (button and rechargeable)
Residents
are also permitted
the free disposal of three
TVs or computers/CRT monitors
per household each year
at the C.H.a.R.M. Center.
Residents can obtain new
stickers for this year free of
charge when visiting the
C.H.a.R.M. Center. By purchasing
a $25 sticker that is valid
for the entirety of the season,
residents will be permitted
to dispose of yard waste
and brush at the C.H.a.R.M.
Center. The $25 sticker also
covers the cost to dispose of
hard/rigid plastics at the facility.
The C.H.a.R.M. Center accepts
CHECKS ONLY, no cash
or cards.
Please note tha t the
GARDENS| FROM PAGE 14
by several of the birds who
also flock to my feeder. Other
birds around town can
be seen drinking and swimming
in the river, ponds and
reservoirs.
One of them seems to have
left me a gift a few years ago
by planting a European elderberry
shrub (Sambucus
nigra) near the bird feeder.
Some of the seeds from
fruits birds eat pass right
through them without being
digested, with the result that
the seed is dropped with “a
packet of fertilizer” around
it when the bird perches
on a branch or the eaves of
in case they may want to attend
and need to make travel
plans. Some of our Classmates
have kept in touch with some
of our High School teachers,
and they attended our last
two Saugus High Reunion
events – we hope they’ll join
us again. Feel free to reach
out to any of your favorite
teachers that you may want
there – I’m sure they would
love to hear from you.
More information is forthcoming.
Any questions,
please feel free to reach out
to Andrea or Pete:
Andrea Saunders (1980
Class President) can be
reached at paulgreens@aol.
com or 978-482-5787.
Pete Nicolo can be reached
A PEACEFUL PROTEST ON THE TOWN HALL LAWN: A small loose-knit Saugus area citizens
group that calls itself “Saugus & Friends Resist” staged the latest of its anti-administration
demonstrations at the corner of Hamilton and Central Streets last Saturday and plans to continue
its demonstrations indefinitely from 11 a.m. till noon every Saturday. (Courtesy photo to
The Saugus Advocate)
C.H.a.R.M. Center does not
accept any household trash
or construction materials and
debris. The Town of Saugus
reserves the right to refuse
any material if quantity or
quality is questionable. Go to
https://www.saugus-ma.gov/
solid-waste-recycling-department
and click on “Recycling
Guide” for a comprehensive
list of items that are accepted
or not accepted at the
C.H.a.R.M. Center, in addition
to guidelines for how to prepare
different items for disposal
at the facility.
The C.H.a.R.M. Center will
remain open on Wednesdays
and Saturdays through
the house. The elderberry
that came up near my bird
feeder must have originated
as a seed dropped by a
bird about five years ago.
The seeds are poisonous to
mammals but not to birds.
The flowers and the outer
parts of the fruits are not poisonous,
though, and are eaten
by many different creatures.
The
shrubs also make good
nest sites for many songbirds.
The shrub that grew
from that one seed is already
about 6 feet tall and wide,
and is currently in bloom
with lacy white flower clusters.
While this elderberry is
not a native species it does
the season until the winter.
Please contact Solid Waste/
Recycling Coordinator Scott
A. Brazis at 781-231-4036 with
any questions.
Saugus High Class of 1980
Attention, Saugus High
Class of 1980. Mark your calendars
for Nov. 29 (Saturday
after Thanksgiving) and reach
out to your friends that you’d
like to see at the 45th Class
Reunion for 1980 graduates
and friends. The reunion will
be held that day from 1 to 6
p.m. inside the Saugus Elks.
Invite Saugus High friends
from other classes that you
may want to be at our 1980
provide many benefits for
wildlife and is rather attractive,
so I am keeping it where
the bird planted it at least for
the time being.
Editor’s Note: Laura Eisener
is a landscape design consultant
who helps homeowners
with landscape design, plant
selection and placement of
trees and shrubs, as well as
perennials. She is a member of
the Saugus Garden Club and
offered to write a series of articles
about “what’s blooming
in town” shortly after the outbreak
of the COVID-19 pandemic.
She was inspired after
seeing so many people taking
up walking.
Class Reunion. Our last Saugus
Class BBQ event a couple
of years ago had three sisters
from three different classes
attend and they had a blast
– so many loved seeing them
and appreciated them being
there. So many old friends
reconnecting after decades;
friends from overseas and
across the country came; Saugus
Classmates that left in Jr.
High and that went to other
High Schools came. How special
it was for so many people
to see each other after over
40 years.
Reach out to your friends
who are not on Facebook to
give them some early notice
PSNicolo2533@comcast.net
or 978-815-8234.
About The Saugus Advocate
We
welcome press releases,
news announcements,
freelance articles and courtesy
photos from the community.
Our deadline is 6
p.m. on Tuesday. If you have
a story idea, an article or
a photo to submit, please
email me at mvoge@comcast.net
or leave a message
at 978-683-7773. Or send
your press release to me
in the mail at PO Box 485,
North Andover, MA 01845.
Let us become your hometown
newspaper. The Saugus
Advocate is available in
the Saugus Public Library,
the Saugus Senior Center,
Saugus Town Hall, local convenience
stores and restaurants
throughout town.
The Sayles’ front garden is full
of varied flowers to delight
pollinators throughout the
growing season. (Photo courtesy
of Laura Eisener)
This elderberry bush grew
from a seed “dropped” by a
bird in my garden. (Photo courtesy
of Laura Eisener)
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THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 27, 2025
Probe into masked
men in black incident
at a standstill
A
reported incident involving
two masked
men in black allegedly
robbing a man outside LA Fitness
got plenty of attention
in Saugus social media circles
last month. But Saugus police
issued a statement this week,
noting that the investigation
is at a standstill because the alleged
victim won’t talk to local
police investigating the incident
– which may or may not
have happened.
“Some of you have called
regarding a viral video going
around of an apparent assault
at the LA Fitness in Saugus,”
Saugus Police Communications
Strategist Kelli O’Hara said in a
statement to media this week.
“The incident occurred last
month, below is the information
we have at this time,” she
said.
“Just after 5pm on May 5,
2025, Saugus Police responded
to the parking lot of LA Fitness
for a reported fight in progress.
Upon arrival two men had fled
the scene in a white vehicle,
and the victim of the assault
elected not to identify himself
or cooperate with the investigation
by police,” O’Hara said.
“A video of the incident has
gone viral and police welcome
further information regarding
this case. It appears the incident
was not random and the victim
appears to have been targeted
by the other men leaving no
further public safety concern,”
she said.
READING DRAGONS
| FROM PAGE 7
tles plus free ebooks, audio
books, comics, magazines
& music you can download
using the hoopla and Libby
apps.
Did we mention prizes?
We’ve once again partnered
with outstanding local
businesses to reward summer
reading. Sincere thanks
to the businesses who generously
donated! We’ll have
a full prize cart plus free
books to give away. In addition,
we’ll run drawings for
ice cream, donuts, cookies,
pizza, roller skating, bowling,
mini golf and sports merch,
and grand prize drawings for
tickets to Canobie Lake Park
and North Shore Music Theatre’s
production of “Finding
Nemo” — and more!
Be a Reading Dragon!
As kids log their minutes of
Here’s one scene from an alleged crime outside LA Fitness
last month that’s gone viral. But nobody is talking to the Saugus
Police to verify whether the incident actually took place.
J&
• Reliable Mowing Service
• Spring & Fall Cleanups
• Mulch & Edging
• Sod or Seed Lawns
• Shrub Planting & Trimming
• Water & Sewer Repairs
Joe Pierotti, Jr.
reading, they will earn reading
dragon cards: collectible
cards similar to Pokémon
cards. Everyone who registers
receives a starter set
so they are ready to play
the game, start trading and
start collecting! Each set of
themed dragon cards contains
an egg, a child, a teenager
and an adult dragon.
There are even special holographic
cards to collect.
Did we mention free proS
LANDSCAPE
& MASONRY CO.
Masonry - Asphalt
• Brick or Block Steps
• Brick or Block Walls
• Concrete or Brick Paver
Patios & Walkways
• Brick Re-Pointing
• Asphalt Paving
www.JandSlandscape-masonry.com
• Senior Discount • Free Estimates • Licensed & Insured
617-389-1490
Designing and Constructing Ideas that are “Grounds for Success”
Landscaping
Librarian Kathryn Walton and “Smorg the Book Hoarder”
prepare to visit the Belmonte STEAM Academy to encourage
summer reading. (Courtesy Photo to The Saugus Advocate)
grams?
In addition, there will be
special visits by Wildlife Encounters,
Vinny the Bubble
Guy, the Saugus Fire &
Police Departments, Pikachu
+ Sonic characters and
Toe Jam Puppet Band, plus
a family dance party, a concert
for kids and bubble,
magic and puppet shows.
Check out the Library’s online
event calendar for upto-date
information.
READING DRAGONS | SEE PAGE 22
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Malden Trans is looking for reliable drivers for
the new school year. We provide ongoing training
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Part-time positions available and based on AM &
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driver history from Registry a MUST! If interested,
please call David @ 781-322-9401.
CDL SCHOOL BUS DRIVER WANTED
Compensation: $28/hour
School bus transportation company seeking
active CDL drivers who live LOCALLY (Malden,
Everett, Chelsea and immediate surrounding
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- Applicant MUST have BOTH S and P endorsements
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HOURS PER WEEK depending on experience.
Contact David @ 781-322-9401.
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Page 17
grappling with strained budgets,
addressing long-overdue
maintenance on public higher
education campuses and delivering
much-needed transportation
solutions for communities
across the commonwealth.”
“As
a member of the joint
Beacon Hill Roll Call
Volume 50 - Report No. 25
June 16-20, 2025
Copyright © 2025 Beacon
Hill Roll Call. All Rights Reserved.
By
Bob Katzen
T
HE HOUSE AND SENATE:
Beacon Hill Roll
Call records local representatives’
and senators’ votes
on roll calls from the week of
June 16-20.
$1.3 BILLION FOR TRANSPORTATION
AND EDUCATION
(H 4227)
House 150-3, then 148-4,
Senate 40-0, approved and
sent to Gov. Maura Healey the
conference committee version
of a $1.3 billion fi scal 2025 supplemental
budget that uses
funds generated from the
surtax imposed on taxpayers’
earnings of more than $1
million annually, to fund $593
million for education-related
projects and $716 million for
transportation-related ones.
The House and Senate had
approved different versions
of the bill and the conference
committee drafted this compromise
version.
The surtax was created by
voters in November 2022
when they voted for a constitutional
amendment, dubbed
by supporters as the “Fair
Share Amendment,” that allows
a graduated income tax
in Massachusetts and imposes
an additional 4 percent income
tax, in addition to the
fl at 5 percent one, on taxpayers’
earnings of more than $1
million annually. Language
in the constitutional amendment
requires that “subject
to appropriation, the revenue
will go to fund quality public
education, aff ordable public
colleges and universities,
and for the repair and maintenance
of roads, bridges and
public transportation.”
A total of $535 million of
the $716 million for transportation
will be used for various
MBTA projects. Other provisions
include $80 million for
Chapter 90 aid to ensure every
city and town receives funding
to maintain local roads and
bridges; $16.4 million for municipally
owned small bridges
and culverts; $7 million for
the improvement and maintenance
of unpaved roads;
and $5 million for transportation
improvements associated
with the upcoming 2026 FIFA
World Cup.
The $593 million for education
includes $248 million
for special education; $115
million for public higher education
infrastructure investments;
$25 million for tutoring
to support accelerated literacy
growth and success for students
in kindergarten through
grade 3; $10 million for English
Language Learning Programs;
$10 million to support
the Holocaust Museum in Boston;
and $10 million for grants
to eligible local school districts
for clean energy infrastructure
improvements and upgrades.
“Ensuring that every Massachusetts
resident has access to
a safe and reliable public transportation
system, and that every
student in the commonwealth
receives a high-quality
education, are two of the most
fundamental responsibilities
that we have as elected offi -
cials,” said House Speaker Ron
Mariano (D-Quincy). “The investments
being made in this
supplemental budget are representative
of the Legislature’s
continued focus on meeting
those responsibilities.”
“In a time of national turbulence
and damaging federal
cuts, the conference committee
has delivered a meaningful
compromise that honors the
will of Massachusetts voters
and invests Fair Share funds
equitably across Massachusetts,”
said Sen. Jo Comerford
(D-Northampton), Vice Chair
of the Senate Ways and Means
Committee. “This supplemental
budget reflects a Senate
commitment to regional equity—providing
meaningful
support for K-12 schools
conference committee, I’m
proud to have played a significant
role in the process that
reflects the values and priorities
of communities, such
as those on the South Shore
that I represent,” said Sen. Patrick
O’Connor (R-Weymouth),
Ranking Minority member
of the Senate Committee on
Ways and Means. “This legislation
directs historic and
groundbreaking Fair Share
investments toward career
and technical education, local
infrastructure and regional
transportation, which directly
benefi ts our schools, our roads
and our economy.”
Reps. Ken Sweezey (R-Duxbury)
and Alyson Sullivan
Almeida (R-Abington) cast
the only two votes against the
budget. They issued a joint
press release citing the conference
committee’s decision to
withhold $80 million in Chapter
90 road funding from municipalities
deemed noncompliant
with the MBTA Communities
Act’s zoning mandates,
as the reason they voted
against the budget.
The MBTA Communities Act,
according to the state’s website,
requires that an MBTA
community “must have at least
one zoning district of reasonable
size in which multi-family
housing is permitted as of
right and meets other criteria”
including minimum gross
density of 15 units per acre;
and a location not more than
1/2 mile from a commuter rail
station, subway station, ferry
terminal or bus station. No
age restrictions can be applied
and the district must be suitable
for families with children
Sweezey, whose district includes
several non-compliant
towns said, “Three of my [district’s]
towns - Marshfi eld, Halifax
and Hanson - are being penalized
for standing by their
local planning boards and residents.
The conference committee
claims it wants to support
our communities, yet it is
holding critical transportation
funds hostage. That is simply
not acceptable.”
“I was fully prepared to
support the final compromise,”
said Sullivan-Almeida.
“Unfortunately, the conference
committee inserted a
last-minute stipulation to punish
non-compliant towns. This
kind of maneuvering doesn’t
belong in a budget that is supposed
to help all our cities and
towns.”
Both legislators emphasized
their support for the
provisions in the supplemental
budget that increase funding
for education including regional
transportation, career
technical training and special
education as well as provisions
for public transit. However,
they were clear that they could
not support a bill that “leverages
essential local funding to
coerce compliance with a controversial
zoning mandate.”
(A “Yes” vote is for the budget.
A “No” vote is against it.
The House voted twice on this
bill so there are two votes listed
for each representative.)
Rep. Jessica Giannino Y e s /
Yes Rep. Donald Wong
Yes/Yes
Crighton Yes
$532 MILLION FISCAL 2025
SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (S
2529)
Senate 38-2, approved a
$532 million fi scal 2025 supplemental
budget that includes
$174 million for fi scally
strained acute care hospitals
and $35 million for community
health centers facing
fi nancial challenges. The
House has already approved
a diff erent version of the bill
and a House-Senate conference
committee will eventually
draft a compromise version.
Other provisions in the Senate
version include $134 million
for the Medical Assistance
Trust Fund; $400,000 for Women
Infants and Children Program
Manufacturer Rebates;
$60 million for Home Care Services;
$35 million for payments
to fi scally strained community
health centers; $42.9 million
for Residential Assistance for
Families in Transition; $4.2 million
for the State Police Crime
Laboratory; and $60 million for
Home Care Services.
“Massachusetts has a healthcare
ecosystem that is the
envy of other states, and that
doesn’t happen by accident,”
said Senate President Karen
Spilka (D-Ashland). “SupportSen.
Brendan
ing every resident is part of
what it means to be a leader
in healthcare access. This
funding will help our hospitals
and community health
centers provide high-quality
care in every region, no matter
a patient’s insurance status,
as well as provide critical services
to our veterans, seniors
and municipalities.”
“The Senate took action today
on reconciling defi ciencies
of $532 million in the fi scal
year 2025 budget, most notably
providing $209 million
in critical assistance to fi scally
strained acute care hospitals
and community health centers,”
said Sen. Mike Rodrigues
(D-Westport), Chair of the Senate
Committee on Ways and
Means. “The bill also allocates
$134 million to the Medical Assistance
Trust Fund, with the
remaining $189 million to responsible
bill-paying obligations
across a broad range of
state agencies and programs.
We’re fortunate that the commonwealth
is in strong fi nancial
condition to meet these
responsibilities, never more
important than now in these
continuing uncertain times.”
“My primary reason for voting
no on this supplemental
budget is that it includes
a policy initiative allowing
electric utility providers to increase
rates to seemingly expand
electric charging stations,
and does so without requiring
a response from the
Department of Public Utility
which oversees these rate
hikes,” said Sen. Ryan Fattman
(R-Sutton). “When the fi nal bill
is negotiated, I hope this is removed,
thus allowing me to
support it. Rate payers are being
hit every which way, and I
simply will not support more
cost increases on families for
higher electric rates, or subsidies
for electric vehicle infrastructure
when the market
doesn’t support it.”
(A “Yes” vote is for the $532
million supplemental budget.
A “No” vote is against it.)
Sen. Brendan Crighton
Yes
UTILITY RATE INCREASES (S
2529)
Senate 6-33, rejected an
amendment that would strike
a section of the supplemental
budget that would allow any
BEACON | SEE PAGE 18
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THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 27, 2025
BEACON | FROM PAGE 17
rate increases proposed by
utility companies to take effect
in 60 days, if the proposed increase
is not reviewed and acted
upon by the Department of
Public Utilities (DPU).
Co-sponsor of the amendment
to strike the section, Sen.
Kelley Dooner (D-Taunton),
said it is not good government
for rate hikes to take effect
without a full review by
DPU and that this would undermine
regulatory oversight
and expose ratepayers once
again to even higher increases.
She argued that the Senate
should be strengthening oversight,
not making it easier for
utilities to raise their rates behind
closed doors.
“An increase in utility rates
for the purpose of expanding
electric charging stations at a
time when families in the commonwealth
are struggling to
pay utility bills at their current
rates is detrimental and unnecessary,”
said amendment
co-sponsor Sen. Ryan Fattman
(R-Sutton) who voted to strike
the section.
Sen. Mike Barrett (D-Lexington),
the chief opponent of the
amendment, did not respond
to several e-mails from Beacon
Hill Roll Call asking him why
he opposed the amendment.
(A “Yes” vote is for the
amendment that would prohibit
the increase from taking
effect without DPU approval.
A “No” vote is for allowing
the rate increase to take effect
without DPU approval.)
Sen. Brendan Crighton
No
ALSO UP ON BEACON HILL
COALITION TO REFORM
OUR LEGISLATURE – The Coalition
to Reform Our Legislature
(CROL) held an event at
Church on the Hill across the
street from the Statehouse
and urged the Legislature to
pass two bills the group has
filed.
CROL defines itself as a bipartisan
coalition of citizens
working to make the Massachusetts
Legislature “more effective,
accountable and transparent.”
The event, billed as
“The People’s Hearing,” featured
several speakers including
the group’s co-founder
Jeanne Kempthorne, former
Massachusetts Democratic
State Rep. and U.S. Congress
member Barney Frank, former
Democratic State Rep. Jonathan
Hecht, the GOP finance
chair Jennifer Nassour, Sierra
Club Director Vickash Mohanka,
Republican party chair
Amy Carnavale and James Bryant
Conant University Professor
at Harvard University Danielle
Allen.
The first proposal (H 3892)
would establish an independent
Office of Legislative Research
and an Office of Fiscal
Analysis.
The Office of Legislative Research
would assist legislators
and committees on all matters
requiring policy analysis, comparative
legal analysis, statistical
research and fact-finding
in connection with legislation
or other matters pertaining
to the functions of the Legislature
as well as assist with
bill-drafting upon request by
any representative or senator.
The Office of Fiscal Analysis
would prepare tax revenue
and expenditure forecasts and
reviews and analyze the fiscal
impact of proposed legislation.
“Massachusetts
is an outlier,”
said Kempthorne. “Nearly
all states have nonpartisan
research and analysis capacity
to encourage better bill drafting,
analysis and decision making.
The absence of that capacity
here helps account for
our Legislature’s poor performance.”
The
second proposal (HD
4303) would make major
changes to the current legislative
pay stipend system under
which all 40 senators and 108
of 160 representatives receive
an additional stipend, above
their $82,046 base salary, for
their positions in the Democratic
and Republican leadership,
as committee chairs, vice
chairs and the ranking Republican
on some committees. The
current Senate stipends range
from $30,207 to $119,631
while the House ones range
from $7,776. to $119,631. All
of the positions are appointed
by either the Senate President,
House Speaker, Senate
Minority Leader or House Minority
Leader.
The bill would change the
range of the stipends for representatives
and senators to
a new range of $16,409 to
$61,533. It would also reduce
the number of legislators who
receive stipends.
CORL cites other changes it
proposes in the stipend system
including only providing
stipends for positions that involve
significant work; condition
stipends for committee
chairs on their bringing all bills
to their full committees for
public debate, mark-up and
a public vote; give stipends
for leadership and Ways and
Means positions only if the
committee chairs meet those
conditions described above;
and provide a new stipend to
all committee members for
the significant work of participating
in public debates and
mark-ups.
Supporters of the bill say
that the current system gives
leadership extraordinary control
over legislators’ pay. They
say that their new bill would
replace the current system
with a less costly and less
leadership-controlled stipend
system that rewards performance,
rather than loyalty.
“In no other state are so
many legislators dependent
on their chamber leader for a
large share of their pay,” said
former Rep. Jonathan Hecht.
“One hundred and forty nine
of the 200 members of the
legislature are now in socalled
‘leadership positions,’
put there by the House Speaker,
Senate President, or the
House and Senate Minority
Leaders, with a $5 million account
to boost their pay. Most
of these stipends were created
in the last 25 years, and reward
little or no work.”
“One of the questions that
we are considering is whether
to take ... one or both of these
issues to the ballot,” said former
State Rep. and Revenue
Committee chair Jay Kaufman.
“There’s some significant consequences
to doing that, but
we’re actively weighing it.”
Also in attendance at the
event was long time editor
and first-time director Aaron
Singer who is the producer
and director of “Shadows on
the Hill,” an upcoming documentary
that he says asks why
common-sense bills don’t pass
the Massachusetts Legislature.
“This project began as an
investigation into why legislation
reforming Daylight
Savings Time keeps failing,”
said Singer. “But once I started
talking to people on Beacon
Hill, it became clear how
much representatives fear going
against leadership. A supermajority
co-sponsored an
act to prevent wage theft; how
does that not pass?”
Singer continued, “I have
deep empathy for rank-andfile
lawmakers under intense
pressure to fall in line, but they
have a responsibility to loudly
call out how undemocratic
the system is. Otherwise, their
role in the process will never
change and their constituents
will be denied the representation
they’re owed.”
BAN USE OF CELL PHONES
IN SCHOOLS (S 381) – The Education
Committee held a
hearing on several bills which
would ban student use of cell
phones during classes except
when expressly directed by a
teacher.
“An increasing number of
countries, states and municipalities
have banned mobile
phones in schools,” said Sen.
John Keenan (D-Quincy) who
filed one of the proposals. He
noted that he filed the measure,
to ensure that the commonwealth
protects children
in classrooms and optimizes
the learning environment for
students.”
PROHIBIT USE OF NATIVE
AMERICAN MASCOTS IN PUBLIC
SCHOOLS (S 312) – Another
bill heard by the Education
Committee would prohibit
public schools from using an
athletic team name, logo or
mascot which is associated
with Native Americans. The
bill bans the current and future
use of any of these mascots.
Any school that does not comply
with this law would not be
eligible for discretionary state
education grants.
“This bill
is long overdue,”
said Sen. Jo Comerford
(D-Northampton). “Native
Americans are sovereign peoples—not
mascots, not caricatures.
The continued use of
Native imagery in school mascots
is dehumanizing. It perpetuates
harmful stereotypes
and has been shown to cause
psychological harm, especially
for Native youth.”
In 2024, a similar bill was approved
by the Education Committee
and was sent to the
House Ways and Means Committee
where it died from lack
of further action.
ELIMINATE THE ADDRESS
OF CANDIDATES ON THE BALLOT
(SD 2982) - Sen. Jake Oliveira
(D-Ludlow) proposed a
late-filed bill that would remove
the home street address
of candidates for elected office
from ballots and nomination
papers. The measure would
allow only the city or town in
which the candidate resides
to be listed.
The measure was filed in response
to a shooting in which
Minnesota House Speaker
Emerita Melissa Hortman and
her husband Mark were killed.
Oliveira said that Massachusetts
is “an extreme outlier” as
the only state that prints candidate
addresses on ballots.
He noted that 44 other states
list only party affiliation on
a public ballot, and five list a
candidate’s home municipality,
precinct or ward but not a
full street address.
“Only Massachusetts inBEACON
| SEE PAGE 19
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Page 19
BEACON | FROM PAGE 18
cludes the information that
we have on our ballots,” said
Oliveira. “We need to do everything
that we can to protect
one another, protect our
staff and protect our family,
and this is a step in the right
direction.”
EXPAND THE BOTTLE BILL
(S 2245) The Committee on
Telecommunications, Utilities
and Energy’s hearing included
a measure that would expand
the bottle bill to include
containers as small as nips and
as large as one gallon; more
types of beverages such as water,
energy drinks and iced tea;
an increase in the deposit from
5 cents to 10 cents; an increase
in the handling fees paid to retailers
and redemption centers;
an exemption for retailers
of less than 2,000 square
feet from the requirement of
accepting containers for redemption;
and a provision that
would direct unclaimed deposits
in excess of $70 million
to the re-established Clean Environment
Fund, to be used for
administering the deposit system
and for programs related
to solid waste management
and environmental protection.
Sponsor Sen. Cindy Creem
(D-Newton) said the bill will
modernize the bottle deposit
system so that it better refl ects
the beverages we consume today.
“By including more types
of containers, raising the deposit
and supporting retailers
with higher handling fees …
we can recycle billions more
bottles and cans each year.
This will reduce litter in our
communities, slash emissions,
save cities and towns millions
in waste removal costs and
create jobs across the state.”
BAN OPEN CONTAINERS OF
MARIJUANA IN MOTOR VEHICLES
(H 186) – The Cannabis
Policy Committee held a hearing
on a proposal that would
establish a $100 to $500 civil
penalty for a driver possessing
an open container of marijuana
or marijuana-infused
edibles in the passenger area
of a motor vehicle -- similar to
the state’s open alcohol container
law. The measure also
creates exemptions for certain
vehicles including limousines
and RVs.
“I fi led this bill with hopes
of creating more structure
and regulation within the
developing industry,” said
sponsor Rep. Marcus Vaughan
(R-Wrentham). “I feel while
this is a great addition to the
commonwealth’s economic
BEACON | SEE PAGE 20
Sa nr
Sa
a
y Senior
Seni
by Jim Miller
Does Medicare Cover
Annual Physical Exams?
Dear Savvy Senior,
Does Medicare cover annual
physical exams? I’ve gotten a physical
every year since I turned 50 and
would like to fi nd out what Medicare
covers when I sign up in a few
months.
Almost 65
Dear Almost,
No, Medicare does not pay for
annual physical exams, but it does
cover a one-time “Welcome to
Medicare” checkup during your
fi rst year after enrolling in Part
B. And after that, it covers annual
wellness visits to keep track
of your health. Here’s what you
should know.
Physical vs Wellness Exam
In an annual physical, a docRMD’S
FOR 401(K) PLANS
W
hen must you begin
taking Re -
quired Minimum
Distributions (RMDs) from a
401(k) plan? You must begin
taking RMDs from a 401(k)
plan in the year you reach
age 73 if you have retired and
simply left the 401(k) plan account
open. This is no diff erent
than for a Traditional IRA
account. You can wait until
April 15th following the year
in which you turn 73 to take
your fi rst RMD distribution.
However, if you do that, you
will be doubling up on the
RMD distribution. In other
words, you will have to take
two RMD distributions during
that calendar year.
However, if you are still working
and you are an active participant
in the employer’s 401(k)
plan, you do not have to take
any RMDs from that 401(k) plan
until you actually retire. Upon
retirement, it might then make
sense to roll over any and all
401(k) plans or 403(b) plans into
a Rollover IRA account in order
to simplify the management
of these retirement accounts,
avoid overlap in portfolio positions
and also to reduce the burdensome
paperwork. Furthermore,
you eliminate the risk of
certain restrictions found in the
401(k) plan document regarding
distributions to benefi ciaries
in the event of your death.
The RMD is based upon the
account value as of December
31st in the year prior to you
reaching age 73. You look to the
IRA life expectancy table pursuant
to IRS publication 590-B in
order to determine the number
of years to divide the December
31st balance by.If, for example,
the balance in your 401(k) plan
or Rollover IRA plan on December
31, 2024 was $1,500,000,
and you turned 73 in calendar
year 2025, you would divide
the $1,500,000 by 26.5 years to
arrive at an RMD of $56,604 for
calendar year 2025. If you were
still working and the only existing
retirement account was
your 401(k) plan at your current
tor examines you, may do bloodwork
and other tests and looks for
problems even though you don’t
have a specifi c complaint or risk.
The Welcome to Medicare
employer, no RMD would have
to be taken until you retire. You
can work until any age and still
not be required to take an RMD.
If you name a spouse as the
benefi ciary of your 401(k) plan,
he or she can establish a benefi
ciary 401(k) account and then
roll it over to his or her Rollover
IRA account. Your surviving
spouse can then withdraw
RMDs based upon his or her
own life expectancy. When it
comes to children benefi ciaries,
the “stretch” IRA option has been
eliminated under the SECURE
Act. Children, prior to the Tax
Cuts & Jobs Act of 2017, could
roll the 401(k) monies into a Rollover
IRA account and stretch the
RMDs over their lifetime. This resulted
in tremendous tax effi -
ciency and the opportunity to
grow the investment account
further. Under the SECURE Act,
children must now withdraw
the account in full by the end
of the 10th year following the
year of the 401(k) owner’s death.
This also applies to Traditional
IRA accounts. The tax implications
to the children are signifi -
cant and cannot be overlooked.
Joseph D. Cataldo is an estate
planning/elder law attorney,Certifi ed
Public Accountant, Certifi ed Financial
Planner, AICPA Personal Financial
Specialist and holds a masters degree
in taxation.
checkup and annual wellness visits
are diff erent. They focus primarily
on preventive care.
Your doctor will review your risk
factors, develop a personalized
health plan for you, check that
you’re up to date with preventive
tests such as cancer screenings
and fl u shots and may refer
you for other tests. Here’s a breakdown
of what these exams may
include.
Welcome to Medicare Checkup
This
is an introduction to Medicare
and focuses on health promotion,
disease prevention and
detection to help you stay well.
It’s an opportunity for your doctor
to assess your health and provide
a plan for care. During this
visit your doctor will:
• Take your height, weight, and
blood pressure measurements,
and calculate your body mass index
(BMI).
• Ask about your personal and
family health history.
• Give you referrals for other
care as needed.
• Assess your potential for depression.
•
Provide a simple vision test.
• Recommend vaccines, tests,
screenings and other preventive
services you need to stay healthy.
• Off er to talk with you about
creating advance directives.
Annual Wellness Visit
This visit includes some of the
same elements as the Welcome
to Medicare checkup. For example,
your doctor will review your
medical history, record your vital
information and give you an opportunity
to talk about advance
directives. Your doctor may also
provide the following services:
• Create a screening checklist
for recommended preventive services
for the upcoming year.
• Look at health risks and treatment
options.
• Perform a cognitive assessment
to look for signs of dementia.
•
Provide personalized health
advice.
• Review your current prescriptions.
•
Study risk factors for opioid
problems if you have a prescription
for opioids, and screen
for potential substance use disorders.
Medicare
Coverage
The Welcome to Medicare and
annual wellness visits are fully
covered by Medicare Part B without
any out-of-pocket costs. You
don’t need the Welcome to Medicare
visit to qualify for later annual
wellness visits, but know that
Medicare won’t pay for a wellness
visit during the fi rst 12 months
you have Part B.
During these visits, the provider
may order additional tests or
procedures that may be subject
to Medicare’s deductibles, copayments
or coinsurance.
Make sure that when you book
your appointment, you specifi cally
ask for the Welcome to Medicare
checkup or annual wellness
visit to ensure Medicare covers it.
Otherwise, you may have to pay
for the visit.
If you’re enrolled in Medicare
Advantage, you’ll probably need
to use an in-network provider for
the wellness visits to be covered.
Some Medicare Advantage plans
also cover annual physicals in addition
to the wellness visit. Check
your plan for details.
Send your senior questions
to: Savvy Senior, P.O.
Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070,
or visit SavvySenior.org.
Jim Miller is a contributor to the
NBC Today show and author of
“The Savvy Senior” book.
nior
ior
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best children’s book of the year.
2. Gig (gigabyte)
3. Bald eagle
4. 42 (That event was discontinued.)
5. A hairless cat
6. Prince Edward Island
7. Ophelia (She is in “Hamlet.”)
8. A French newspaper
9. “Hollywood Squares”
10. Swimmer Michael Phelps
11. Danvers (originally called Salem Village)
12. Following the Revolutionary War, an annual
day for enlisting in the local militia (like the National
Guard)
13. 2020
14. “The Stars and Stripes Forever” by John Philip
Sousa
15. Dachshunds (in 1600s Germany)
16. The Civil Rights Act
17. They are woodwind instruments.
18. The animal order Sirenia, which includes
manatees
19. “Big Ben” in the London Clock Tower
20. Sirius, the Dog Star in the Orion constellation,
rises at the same time as the sun during the most
sultry summer days.
Page 20
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 27, 2025
Area residents named to Dean’s List at University of New England
T
he following students
from Saugus have been
named to the University
of New England’s Dean’s List
BEACON | FROM PAGE 19
standpoint there needs to be
more awareness on the public
health side to promote safety.”
QUOTABLE QUOTES
Juneteenth, which was celebrated
last week on June 19th,
commemorates more than
250,000 slaves in Texas learning
of their freedom on June
19, 1865. The date came more
than two years after President
Abraham Lincoln signed the
Emancipation Proclamation.
Juneteenth became a federal
holiday in 2021, the same year
it was celebrated as a state holiday
for the first time in Massafor
spring semester 2025: Abigail
Anthony and Katrina Costa.
Dean’s List students have
attained a grade point averchusetts.
Former Gov. Charlie
Baker signed the holiday into
law in July 2020.
The Massachusetts Legislature’s
Black and Latino Legislative
Caucus celebrated the holiday
at the Statehouse. Here
are some of the quotes from
the event:
“We have come a long way,
and it’s our turn at this point
to have the baton in our hand.
And if we don’t, and we don’t
use the power we have today,
after all the sacrifices that
were made in the past, shame
on us.”
---Rep. Russell Holmes
(D-Boston), the longest-serving
member of the Massachuage
of 3.3 or better out of a
possible 4.0 at the end of the
semester.
The University of New Ensetts
Black and Latino Legislative
Caucus.
“When our values are attacked
and our communities
are disrespected, we will stand
up and say loudly and proudly:
‘We believe in diversity, we believe
in equity, we believe with
every fiber of our being that
the Black community belongs
at the table, in the boardroom,
in our colleges, running our
businesses and leading our
government.’”
---Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll.
“One of the great things
Trump is going to give us is
the urgency to keep fighting,
to keep pressing, to not lay
down when he makes these
gland is Maine’s largest independent
university, with two
beautiful coastal campuses in
Maine, a one-of-a-kind, studyinane
comments that make no
sense, when he starts threatening
taking funding. We will
do the best we can to make
sure no one is left behind.”
---House Speaker Ron Mariano
(D-Quincy).
“We know that the path is
stormy ahead. But we know,
too, that we have to celebrate
days like today to make sure
that our voices are heard all
the way to Washington, D.C.,
that diversity, equity and inclusion
are important. DEI is a
Massachusetts value that will
never, ever change.”
---Senate President Karen
Spilka (D-Ashland).
“This year is not like evREAL
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
Ambrosino, Lisa
Bouaddi, Khalid
Doerzapff, Hugo
Le, Phan N
Mahoney, Keith
Naidu, Sudhakar
Santana, Jafet R
BUYER2
Montalvo, Johanna M
Mouajit, Hanaa
Le, Viet P
Mahoney, Bridgett
SELLER1
Paquette, Patricia A
Caron, Madison L
20 Nason Road LLC
Dejesus, Marcio
Mcsharry, Gerald
Vozella, Anthony F
Ruiz, Rosemary
Mcsharry, Cherylann
Vozella, Nancy J
Santana, Jafet R
1. On June 27, 1922, the first
Newbery Medal was awarded
for what?
2. What word can mean a type
of boat, a unit of computer info
or a job?
3. On June 28, 2007, what was
removed from the country’s list
of endangered species: bald eagle,
piping plover or stork?
4. In 1920, Patrick “Babe” McDonald
became the now oldest
Olympic gold medalist (56
lb. Weight Throw) at what age:
35, 42 or 46?
5. What is sphynx: a mythical
creature, a hairless cat or a computer
program?
6. On June 29, 1534, Jacques
Cartier discovered what island
known as P.E.I.?
7. Who is not mentioned
in Shakespeare’s “The Merry
Wives of Windsor”: Alice
Shortcake, Ophelia or Sir John
Falstaff?
8. Le Monde began in 1944
soon after the Liberation of Paris;
what is it?
9. What TV game show is similar
to tic-tac-toe?
10. On June 30, 1985, what
American who collected 28
Olympic medals was born?
11. Some people involved in
the Salem witch trials were residents
of what other town?
12. July 1 is National Gingersnap
Day; gingersnaps were
served at Muster Day, which
was what?
13. In what year did the UK
leave the EU: 2015, 2020 or
2024?
14. The Boston Pops is known
for playing what song that is
SELLER2
ADDRESS
20 Juniper Dr
4 Pranker Rd
20 Nason Rd
72 Great Woods Rd
438 Essex St
42 Walden Ter
23 Laconia Ave
also the National March?
15. July is National Hot Dog
Month; what dog breed was
hot dog originally called?
16. On July 2, 1964, President
Lyndon B. Johnson signed
what Act?
17. How are bassoon, flute and
oboe similar?
18. What sea animal is thought
to have inspired the mythical
mermaid?
19. What clock’s time is adjusted
by adding or removing pennies
from its pendulum?
20. July 3 is the start of the dog
days, according to The Old
Farmer’s Almanac; why were
they called that?
CITY
Saugus
Saugus
Saugus
Saugus
Saugus
Saugus
Saugus
DATE
06.03.25
06.02.25
06.02.25
06.02.25
06.03.25
06.05.25
06.03.25
PRICE
910000
751000
760000
750000
1250000
905000
259136
ANSWERS
HOW LONG WAS LAST
WEEK’S SESSION?
Beacon Hill Roll Call tracks
the length of time that the
House and Senate were in session
each week. Many legislators
say that legislative sessions
are only one aspect of
the Legislature’s job and that a
lot of important work is done
BEACON | SEE PAGE 21
abroad campus in Tangier,
Morocco, and an array of flexible
online offerings. For more
info, visit www.une.edu.
ery other year. When we celebrate
this holiday, we must
recognize what is happening
around us.”
---Tomas O’Brien, executive
director of the Black and Latino
Legislative Caucus.
׉	 7cassandra://JMAIwK0dOQqfPBPJ85I5cvttPEZNjHdY-AG8gAvgzUQ9` h]smyQq9s׉E/THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 27, 2025
BEACON | FROM PAGE 20
outside of the House and Senate
chambers. They note that
their jobs also involve commitWe
follow Social Distancing Guidelines!
Licensed
& Insured
Page 21
tee work, research, constituent
work and other matters
that are important to their districts.
Critics say that the Legislature
does not meet regFree
Estimates
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Senior Citizen Discount
ularly or long enough to debate
and vote in public view
on the thousands of pieces
of legislation that have been
filed. They note that the infrequency
and brief length of sessions
are misguided and lead
to irresponsible late-night sessions
and a mad rush to act on
dozens of bills in the days immediately
preceding the end
of an annual session.
During the week of June 1620,
the House met for a total
of three hours and 49 minutes
while the Senate met for a total
of four hours and 12 minutes.
Mon. June 16 House11:01
a.m. to 11:04 a.m.
Senate 11:05 a.m. to 11:09
a.m.
Tues.June 17 No House session.
No
Senate session.
Wed. June 18 House11:02
a.m. to2:48 p.m.
Senate1:21 p.m. to5:29 p.m.
Thurs. June 19 No House session.
No
Senate session.
Fri. June 20 No House session.
No
Senate session.
Bob Katzen welcomes feedback
at bob@beaconhillrollcall.com
Bob
founded Beacon Hill
Roll Call in 1975 and was inducted
into the New England
Newspaper and Press Association
(NENPA) Hall of Fame
in 2019.
Clean-Outs!
We take and dispose
from cellars, attics,
garages, yards, etc.
Call Robert at:
781-844-0472
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OBITUARIES
Joseph A.
Scavo
O
f Saugus
.
Died
on Monday, June 23rd at the
age of 100. He was the husband
of the late Josephine M.
(Vega) Scavo. Born and raised
in East Boston, Mr. Scavo was
the son of the late Antonio and
Josephine (Perdicaro) Scavo.
A resident of Saugus for the
past 40 years, Joseph was a retired
mail handler for the United
States Postal Service where
he worked for 35 years and was
a WWII U.S. Army Veteran and
Purple Heart recipient. His family
meant everything to him.
Mr. Scavo is survived by his
son, Anthony Scavo of Saugus;
his daughter, Janice Pfeil and
READING DRAGONS
| FROM PAGE 16
Create a reading routine
The library is here to help
families create a summer
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 27, 2025
Relatives and friends were invited
to attend a funeral mass
at Blessed Sacrament Church,
Saugus on Thursday, June 27.
Interment in Holy Cross Cemetery
in Malden. In lieu of flowers,
donations in Joseph’s memory
may be made to the Wounded
Warrior Project at support.
woundedwarriorproject.org.
Sean P. McGrath
O
her husband David of Saugus;
two grandchildren, David and
his wife Danielle and Jaclyn
and her husband Derek; and six
great-grandchildren, Joseph,
Addison, Olivia, Benjamin, Abigail
and Gracelyn. He was predeceased
by two brothers, Vincent
and Frank Scavo.
reading routine that is fun for
kids and their families. Turn
off the media before bedtime,
sit with a child, share a book
or read alongside them. Ask
them questions, but above
all, make it fun! Research
f Saugus. Died on
Thursday, June 19th
at the Massachusetts
General Hospital in Boston at
the age of 56. Born in Boston
and a lifelong resident of Saugus,
Sean was the son of the
late Paul and Dorothy (O’Hara)
McGrath. He was a senior security
officer with the Massachusetts
General Hospital police
where he worked for 29 years.
Sean enjoyed family, friends,
shows that children who read
during the summer months
maintain literacy skills that
they’ve worked hard to build
during the school year. According
to Reading Rockets.
org, research with 116 first-,
wildlife photography, antiquing,
and football.
Sean is survived by his five
siblings, Paul F. McGrath, Jr.
and his wife BethAnn of NJ,
Sheila Firth and her fiancé
Timothy Eckles of Peabody,
Timothy McGrath and his
wife Rita of AL, Christopher
McGrath of Nahant and Jamie
McGrath of Saugus; his
cherished niece and nephew,
Ashley and Robert Firth;
his aunt, Patricia O’Hara DiGenio
of Newmarket, NH; and
his longtime friend, Meredith
Pitzi. He was predeceased by
many aunts and uncles. Sean
is also survived by other nieces
and cousins.
Relatives and friends were
invited to attend visiting
hours in the Bisbee-Porcella
Funeral Home, 549 Lincoln
Ave., SAUGUS on Thursday,
second- and third-graders
in a school in a middle-class
neighborhood found the decoding
skills of nearly 45%
of the participants and the
fluency of 25% declined between
May and September.
June 26. A funeral service will
be held from the funeral home
on Friday at 9:30 a.m. followed
by a funeral mass in Blessed
Sacrament Church, 14 Summer
St., Saugus at 10:30 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations in
Sean’s memory may be made
to Tunnels to Towers @t2t.org.
Stay smart! Have fun!
Stop by the library to register
for summer reading or
to find a just-right book for
your child. It’s all free, all
summer at the Saugus Public
Library!
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Page 23
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THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 27, 2025
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r,Saugus Advocate 06/27/2025Saugus Advocate 06/27/2025h]s8Q,$JE