׉?4ׁB!בCט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://9dTb82yBCLFJL8MQ1nW5sg5y0DET_KzYox39tXzRsFM `)׉ 7cassandra://16d4FMINbQqyHQLEXgVxtzL1q006_VPgYw93SiKST2Aͦi`J׉ 7cassandra://mx6Eq1H1nwL9WQMdjTc2Soa4NsrNhXmXukkC7FUqWhg1`̰׉ 7cassandra://RpFEOlXhIACBBS3EmnV0TNr2voPzZKtjsP4tt5EKXi4 :͠_[\uCט(u׈QU\Mנ_[\uC ́f 9ׁHhttp://www.angelosoil.comׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uC̱ 9ׁHhttp://www.advocatenews.netׁ ׁ Ј׈E_[\uC׉ESAUGUS A V CT DV Vol. 23, No. 53 -FREEwww.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday 781-233-4446 COVID-19 took a devastating toll on the health and economy of Saugus, making it the top story for 2020 By Mark E. Vogler oard of Selectmen Chair Anthony Cogliano said he got something for Christmas this year that he wouldn’t want anyone to receive – a case of COVID-19. “Just before Christmas, I tested positive for COVID-19 – a fi tting ending for a terrible year,” Cogliano told The Saugus Advocate B this week. “My experience with it was somewhat mild – cough, fever, sore throat, headaches and loss of taste – but certainly a minor case compared to others. While I wish the virus on no one, I hope anyone that gets it has a similar experience to the one I did,” he said. Cogliano is one of more than 2,315 Saugus residents who as of yesterday had tested positive for the Coronavirus, which is blamed for 48 deaths in Saugus since the outbreak of the global pandemic in March. Besides contributing to some serious health problems locally, it has put companies out of business, cost hundreds of people their jobs, led to the cancellation of the major crowd-drawing community events and forced children in Saugus Public Schools to engage in remote learning at home via the computer instead of getting a more enriching education in class. Social distancing protocols have led to the shutdown of Town Hall to the public. Small groups of town employees still answer phones and conduct business. But all of the volunteer and elected boards of Saugus Town Government have switched to “Zoom” videoconferencing to conduct YEAR | SEE PAGE 2 Headed back to “Hybrid” S Students will get into the classroom twice a week, effective Jan. 19 By Mark E. Vogler augus Public Schools students will soon return to a more normal schedule, at least part-time, under a weekly education plan that off ers two days of in-person classes and the rest of the time at home, working from a computer. “I’m excited. I think it’s time. I think we’re ready,” School Committee Chair Tom Whittredge said after the committee voted unanimously Tuesday night to set Jan. 19 as the date to resume the so-called hybrid learning model. “I think we’ll be pleased with the results,” he said. The committee had initially set a Jan. 4 target date to resume the hybrid learning model. But when the discussion came up Tuesday night, Whittredge said there wasn’t enough time for parents to get comfortable with the new plan. He suggested Jan. 19, which would allow families about two additional weeks to prepare for the change in schedule. Whittredge, who at one point was a vocal advocate for a total return to the classroom as soon as possible, retreated from that stance in recent weeks following a huge spike in confi rmed COVID-19 cases in Saugus. “I’m glad, Mr. Chairman, that you’ve come around,” School Committee Member Joseph “Dennis” Gould said. “I don’t regret any of our HYBRID | SEE PAGE 8 An unidentifi ed worker sitting in a parked truck near the 7-Eleven on Hamilton Street in Saugus last March wore a facemask to protect himself against the spread of COVID-19. COVID-19 dominated the news headlines during 2020. For a “Year in Review,” monthly breakdown of the top stories in The Saugus Advocate, please see page 5. (Saugus Advocate fi le photo by Mark E. Vogler) FAREWELL 2020 Here is the last full moon of the year as seen through the bare branches of trees outdoors in Saugus on Tuesday night (Dec. 29). See page 3 of this week’s “The Advocate Asks” – members of the Board of Selectmen and the Saugus School Committee refl ected on their top stories of 2020 and shared their New Year’s resolutions. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) ANGELO’S FULL SERVICE "42 Years of Excellence!" 1978-2020 Regular Unleaded $2.039 MidUnleaded $2.399 Super $2.459 Diesel Fuel $2.439 KERO $4.359 Diesel $1.999 HEATING OI 24-Hour Burner Service Call for Current Price! (125—gallon minimum) DEF Available by Pump! Open an account and order online at: www.angelosoil.com (781) 231-3500 (781) 231-3003 367 LINCOLN AVE • SAUGUS • OPEN 7 DAYS The main event of the 60-car Christmas Eve Parade through Saugus was the sleigh with Mrs. Claus, Santa and Alex, the Elf. For more photos of the Christmas Eve Parade, see pages 12 & 13. (Saugus Advocate Photo by Tara Vocino) FOR SAFETY’S SAKE OCD OCATE Thursday, December 31, 2020 Year of the Pandemic A HOLIDAY WELCOME Prices subject to change New Year! H Happy Ne FLEET ׉ 7cassandra://mx6Eq1H1nwL9WQMdjTc2Soa4NsrNhXmXukkC7FUqWhg1`̰_[\uC_[\uC PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://LYQ1aT6VlnMsP0r4zIHGzI1NN0MXwSx_M4yb6WVSVbA \`)׉ 7cassandra://dBk8pA6skuZma1mmnL-2YlJgeOP8uEFqIkZoOWk2_Ec͡`J׉ 7cassandra://PfeGKupMNFM7gl414fVZvpBwALlGQi3-shrpszrtem0*}`̰׉ 7cassandra://zJ9BxHSSAB9bBH82ayAmYkQ0ddQ9yAegVK4jhk09-Ls͵͠_[\uC ט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://29DLQrQLpqyez1k7kVkH2AzTKIrjX-Ar6o9TP8KaBSw`)׉ 7cassandra://hd0Bn5dEz34ikrbIeMXTpwPKIH3M6ilANdm4dZoNooY͗>`J׉ 7cassandra://qWR8bz6AraraMYt7xG9fxOlStgdRq4V91kB4dFV993c,`̰׉ 7cassandra://s3tdmDpeZq6XgW_4c0sgpqh5HbcXGTZUpiXdHO4SYV4[͠_[\uC!׉EPage 2 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 YEAR | FROM PAGE 1 their meetings. Meanwhile, Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree in October declared the modification of school and municipal buildings so they are “pandemic proof” as his top priority. He told selectmen that he hopes to complete the project by year’s end and said it could cost up to $2.5 million and involves about a dozen town buildings. Crabtree said he planned to update the buildings with Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems so that they are safe for town employees, Saugus residents and others who enter them. Virtually, every aspect of life as we know it has been aff ected adversely in Saugus this year because of the Coronavirus. Members of the Saugus High Class of 2020 had most of their major senior events and activities cancelled. And their graduation got pushed off until July, when fi nally 155 masked graduates practicing social distancing walked across the stage at Stackpole Field to receive their diplomas during the school’s 149th Commencement Exercises. It was the fi nal class to graduate from the old Saugus High. Perhaps the most difficult $1.94 aspect for people of all ages to accept is that family cookouts and get-togethers and enjoying parties or large sporting events can be hazardous to people’s health. That’s why federal health offi cials urged people to avoid visiting friends and family over the holidays this year. “I would imagine I contracted the virus from a longtime friend and lieutenant on the Saugus Fire Department,” Cogliano said in an interview this week. “I’m happy to say he’s also doing well in his recovery from COVID-19. “Our group of friends has stuck together in a small group since April,” he said. Cogliano got tested at Town Hall last week, and that’s how he learned of his infection. “The worst part for me is that I can’t sit still,” Cogliano said. “I love moving around the town, and being locked up in the house is torture… My advice to those who haven’t got it is to social distance, wear a mask, wash your hands and stay at home as much as possible. If you do happen to get it, hydrate, hydrate, hydrate and get some rest.” Other major stories for 2020 Rounding out the newspaper’s list of top 10 stories for 2020: 2) Issues with Wheelabrator: The trash-to-energy plant on Route 107 once again drew signifi cant local media coverage, prompted by complaints from residents in East Saugus and Revere over loud noises and obnoxious odors emanating from the plant – considered to be one of the oldest incinerators in the country. But there was a new development this year, spurred by Board of Health Chair William Heff ernan and Board of Selectmen Chair Cogliano, who expressed interest in improving relations between Wheelabrator and the town, which have been strained in recent years. After months of discussion on the concept that began early in the year, the Board of Health in October fi nally created an 11-member subcommittee composed of town offi cials and residents to work together with Wheelabrator Technologies, Inc. in resolving a wide range of issues related to the plant. He noted that relations between Wheelabrator and the Board of Health deteriorated so badly several years ago that company representatives stopped coming to the board’s meetings because of lawsuits the board initiated. Meanwhile, according to Heffernan, adversarial relations hindered eff orts to resolve potential health problems and other issues aff ecting town residents – particularly those in Precinct 10, where the plant is located. “We need to get back to the table. ...This is not just about closing the landfi ll. Yes, that’s a huge piece of the puzzle,” he said, referring to the ash landfi ll located near the Wheelabrator plant. But there are a number of other ongoing issues which the town and company need to address, and they only can do so by working together, he added. One of the benefi ts of the subcommittee is that there will be an immediate response when problems arise at the plant, he stressed, adding that that was the reason for including a Fire Department offi cial as a member. 3) Challenges in Saugus Public Schools to provide students with a meaningful education while keeping the kids safe. For much of the last school year and all of the new school year so far, most of the students – other than those in Special Education classes – have relied on “remote learning” at home via computers to get an education. It’s clear to the local School Committee that students would be better served in the classroom than relying on them to apply themselves academically at home. Particularly frustrating to administrators, teachers, staff, students and parents is that the town isn’t making the most of a very modern and brand-new Saugus Middle-High School which opened this year. That building and the district-wide education plan that goes with it are at the heart of eff orts for turning around an underperforming school system 4) The hiring of several key department heads in Saugus town government. During recent years, Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree has complained to the selectmen and the Finance Committee that the town has trouble fi nding and keeping good department heads in key positions because the town doesn’t pay as well as many surrounding communities do. During 2020, Crabtree seemed to get solid backing from selectmen to recruit and pay good talent. Despite the Coronavirus, Crabtree was busy filling several key jobs in Saugus town government. In July, Crabtree hired Stoneham’s veteran Health Agent, John Fralick III, to begin his new job as the Saugus Director of Public Health – a position that went unfi lled for 18 months. Also in July, the town manager appointed Christopher Reilly as the Town’s new Director of Planning and Economic Development. That’s a position which had been vacant for 33 months. In August, Crabtree announced that the town’s new facilities engineer, Godfred Mbengam, had begun working in a new position that he hopes will lead to more effi cient and better maintained town municipal buildings. In October, Crabtree appointed Tony Wyman, who recently worked as a Labor Relations Specialist for the state Executive Offi ce of Health and Human Services in Boston, to become the new human resources director – thus taking care of another key position in his administration that has been diffi cult to fi ll. 5) The hiring of a new police chief. In what may be one of his most difficult – if not the toughest – personnel decision of his career in administering town government, Town Manager Crabtree announced in July his appointment of Lt. Michael Ricciardelli as the Police Department’s new chief. Several weeks earlier, Crabtree said in an interview that he was mulling over a challenging choice between two well-qualifi ed candidates that he knew personally and professionally when he was a Saugus police offi cer: Ricciardelli and Assistant Chief Ronald Giorgetti, who has served nearly two years as the interim Saugus police chief. Giorgetti had acquired invaluable experience, fi lling in for former Police Chief Domenic DiMella, who retired during the summer of 2018. Giorgetti had also served as DiMella’s number two offi cer for six years. But in the end, Crabtree selected Ricciardelli, a 25-year veteran of the department. 6) Election 2020. A week before Election Day, more than 43 percent of the town’s 20,291 registered voters had already cast their ballots for president and other federal, state and local candidates, so there were expectations of a potential record-setting vote in Saugus. Some found it surprising that Democrat Joe Biden won Saugus in a close vote over President Donald Trump, who had been the favorite of Saugus voters in winYEAR | SEE PAGE 6 ׉ 7cassandra://PfeGKupMNFM7gl414fVZvpBwALlGQi3-shrpszrtem0*}`̰_[\uC׉E THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 3 ~ THE ADVOCATE ASKS ~ Reflections of 2020 in Saugus and looking ahead Selectmen and School Committee members pick their top stories for 2020 and share their New Year’s resolutions Editor’s Note: For this week’s column, we reached out to each of the members of the Board of Selectmen and the School Committee and asked them to pick what they thought was the top story of 2020. We also invited them to share their New Year’s resolutions. All five selectmen and three School Committee members responded. Their comments to each of the questions follow. Q: Besides the pandemic, what would you consider the top story of 2020? Give me one and a runner-up, if you like. Board of Selectmen Chair Anthony Cogliano: Besides the pandemic, the Country’s biggest story was the election. Whether you supported President Trump or President-Elect Joe Biden, the election process in this Country is long overdue for some fine tuning. Any American citizen that votes should do so at the polls, on Election Day with a picture ID. Sure, there are exceptions to every rule... Those that require a mail-in ballot or absentee ballot because of health reasons should be allowed to mail their vote in with proof of signature. Those in the military should also be given special treatment in regards to voting. This Country is supposed to be a world leader. But when it comes time to cast a vote, we are no better than anyone else. Locally, aside from the pandemic, equality was a huge issue. Black Lives Matter held three protests in town and there were two back the police rallies as well. We should all be supportive of Black Lives and equality and smart enough to realize we need our Police at the same time. Board of Selectmen Vice SAUGUS BOARD OF SELECTMEN: Left to right, Chair Anthony Cogliano, Jeffrey Cicolini, Michael Serino, Vice Chair Corinne Riley and Debra Panetta being sworn in following their election last year in the second floor auditorium of Town Hall. (Saugus Advocate file photos by Mark E. Vogler) Chair Corinne Riley: One of the biggest stories of 2020 was how national political and social issues showed themselves at the local level. Whether the presidential election, left vs right, Black Lives Matter, or Back the Blue, the hostility that was felt by family members, friends, individual groups on social media proved that much needs to be done in the way we address these important topics when they arise. The hate and disrespect with which we, as a people, expressed ourselves regarding these issues, even during a pandemic, was disappointing. While there were many instances where we took opportunities to uplift one another, like supporting our graduating seniors, birthday drive-bys, helping those with food insecurity, toy drives, and supporting local businesses, the polarization of America, to some degree, showed itself in the polarization of Saugus. At a time when we should have come together more as a nation and a town, the nearly constant battling showed that we all have more work to do. Selectman Jeffrey Cicolini: The top story of 2020 in Saugus besides the pandemic would be the significant losses we experienced this past year. ASKS | SEE PAGE 4 Gerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law Is Your Estate in Order? Do you have an update Will, Health Care Proxy or Power of Attorney? If Not, Please Call for a Free Consultation. 14 Proctor Avenue, Revere (781) 284-5657 Best wishes for a new year filled with health and happiness. ׉ 7cassandra://qWR8bz6AraraMYt7xG9fxOlStgdRq4V91kB4dFV993c,`̰_[\uC_[\uC PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://jP5nYEQ2cdfJWpsAsWcB41-oZTvpMayuAudsiZuYaw0 `)׉ 7cassandra://iTkqDIsW_VZg-eaCFqhHYzcscEvdLzj3bQZ6NnLW8IYͪ`J׉ 7cassandra://UCBBzjNjiQxTGoTcFNp8GxeQLlSHtfkC9R4e_i8bAVU/`̰׉ 7cassandra://pk_rxxvhgZTKwCHwCqEplayfDy5XTwUa9e8uLELZPM8_d͠_[\uC$ט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://ctEXaZSDxQAmheBFpNBR_VzhxC0nBn1zIcGR_PXhGb4v`)׉ 7cassandra://fBUUB53tTA-rnCYSe-SzUbyUaqt-EuinZvjzF5EuqBYͦ%`J׉ 7cassandra://Hr7y2lTi8Pyr7cUmPwfFbMjlZEoKyhmME0w88KyMUVM0`̰׉ 7cassandra://be3Ikqk4Eqb8zyzS3fE2uFlylNkKUCWpPu6iD3Oano0e͠_[\uC%נ_[\uC* I#̶9ׁHmailto:Info@advocatenews.netׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uC)Wҁ9ׁHhttp://WWW.BIKERSOUTFITTER.COMׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uC(Wҁ9ׁHhttp://WWW.BIKERSOUTFITTER.COMׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 4 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 ASKS | FROM PAGE 3 There were too many amazing Saugonians to try to list them all, but Dick Barry, Arthur Gustafson, Joe Gillis, Mark Bertrand, Ann Serino, Danny Colanton, Michelle (Picardi) Schepis, Fred Varone, Steve Horlick and my cousins Joe Favuzza and Jim Sartori are ones that had a signifi cant impact on me and my family. 2020 has been a very diffi cult year for so many, I for one am looking forward to turning the page. Selectman Debra Panetta: #1 – The new Middle/High School coupled with our Town Finances. Besides the pandemic, I would consider the opening of the new Middle/High School to be the top story for Saugus in 2020. This was the largest capital project that Saugus has ever seen, where over 70 percent of the voters supported an override for a new Middle/High School. We now have a beautiful, state-of-theart school for our Saugus students as well as our teachers and staff to enjoy for future generations. Saugus was also able to maintain its AA+ rating with Standard & Poor’s, which is exceptional news considering the COVID pandemic. By maintaining this high rating, Saugus can borrow at lower interest rates, thus saving Saugus residents signifi cant tax dollars. Standard & Poor’s noted the Town’s “very strong economy, strong management, strong budgetary fl exibility, and very strong liquidity” in its report. #2 – Saugus: A Caring Community. During this difficult year, Saugus residents went over and above trying to take care of their neighbors. Whether it be food drives, toy drives, delivering food or just being there to lend a helping hand, Saugus truly stepped up in every way. Saugus residents also came out to support our Police, Fire, and fi rst responders throughout the year. Even where other cities and towns gave up on their Christmas/holiday parades, Saugus held the best Christmas Eve parade that I’ve ever seen. I want to thank everyone involved, especially Ken Enos, Chris Taylor, Brian Cross and Scott Elias along with our Police and Fire Departments. The parade brought some much-needed joy to Saugus residents. Saugus mourned the loss of several wonderful men who gave so much to our Town. Dick Barry, Steve Horlick, Fred Varone, Arthur Gustafson and 36-year-old. My youngest sibling, Stacy, was only 17 at that time. I instantly assumed the responsibility of watching over her and my mother. Later on in life when my mother was fi rst diagnosed with Alzheimer disease, we were fortunate enough that my sister was living with her in the family home. As time went on, I would go over there every morning to make sure she took her medication and had her breakfast. Moreover, I would head back SAUGUS SCHOOL COMMITTEE: Left to right, Joseph “Dennis” Gould, Chair Thomas Whittredge, Arthur Grabowski, Vice Chair Ryan Fisher and John Hatch being sworn in following their election last year in the second fl oor auditorium of Town Hall. Mark Bertrand were all beloved throughout our community and gave back so much of their time through volunteer and charity work. There were also the passing of Miquel Viveiros and Jim Sartori, who were honored (along with Mark Bertrand) at the Christmas Eve parade. It was fitting to see the DPW building dedicated to Joe Attubato in 2020 where Joe (who passed in 2019) dedicated his life to Saugus. These men will surely be missed. Selectman Mike Serino: The top story for me in 2020 was the passing of my mother Ann, who was 90 years old. She had outlived my father by some 31 years. My mother was a great lady and an awesome mother. She loved to cook. My father worked for the Saugus DPW. Many times during a snowstorm, it would not be unusual for him to bring his fellow workers back to the house during a break, where my mother would cook for all of them. She would expect my brother and I to come by for dinner every night. If my brother Paul did not show up, she would fi rst call the I.T.A.M. Club looking for him. If he was not at the club, she would then call his house. Later on in life when my father had a stroke, she would feed and bathe him until his passing at home in 1989. At that time I was a “young” at lunchtime where we would often go out to eat. My brother Paul would stop by every afternoon around three o’clock until my sister Stacy came home from her full-time job as an accountant. Consequently, in the late stage of my mother’s disease she could no longer be by herself. However, a nursing home was out of the question for me. I remembered how she took care of my father at home and felt she deserved the same care. Therefore, since I was fortunate enough to have been retired from the General Electric Company, I decided to move her and my sister into my house for the remainder of her life. With the help of my sister, brother and homecare providers, they would help me take care of her. This routine lasted for four years until her passing at home. She is now with my dad and other family members in heaven, cooking up a storm. Sorry, there is no runner-up ASKS | SEE PAGE 14 AUTOTECH 1989 SINCE CA$H FOR YOUR CAR! DRIVE IT - PUSH IT - TOW IT! Cold Hard Cash For Your Car, Truck or SUV! 2013 KIA SORRENTO 4X4 Remote Start, Third Row Seating, Premium Sound System, One Owner, Only 73K Miles, One Owner, Warranty! TRADES WELCOME $10,900 Easy Financing Available! 2013 HYUNDAI SANTA FE Sport Package, 4X4, Leather Interior, Loaded, One Owner, 105K Miles, Excellent Condition, Warranty! TRADES WELCOME $10,900 781-321-8841 1236 EasternAve • Malden EddiesAutotech.com We Pay Cash For Your Vehicle! ׉ 7cassandra://UCBBzjNjiQxTGoTcFNp8GxeQLlSHtfkC9R4e_i8bAVU/`̰_[\uC׉EhTHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 5 Year in Review: 2020 A monthly breakdown of the top stories in The Saugus Advocate during 2020 By Mark E. Vogler January Local artist Kelly Slater begins 2020 with an artist residency, free workshop and exhibit at DCR Breakheart. For the third time in two years, the state Attorney’s Offi ce of Open Government cites the former School Committee for an Open Meeting Law violation – this time for holding an improper executive session to discuss privatizing school custodians. Saugus mourns the death of longtime Building Maintenance Supervisor Ralph Materese. The Board of Health votes to create a Subcommittee to set date and plans for closing Wheelabrator’s ash landfi ll. The Selectmen schedule a workshop to target various projects and key issues for the 2020 agenda. Saugus Fire Lt. William E. Cross says it’s time for action on the West Side fi re station project. The Selectmen approve a special permit for George Foreman III’s personal fi tness establishment at the Route 1 Hilltop site. The Selectmen say Craber to take action in response to complaints about slippery crosswalks. The Selectmen set numerous conditions on light industrial property near the Wheelabrator plant. The Police arrest a knife-wielding Saugus man for attempted murder. February Eric Brown and his two daughters return from an Antarctica adventure with some great stories to tell. The School Committee releases minutes of a May 2019 Executive Session that the Attorney General determined was illegal and violated Open Meeting Law. MassDEP’s decision on Wheelabrator’s emission control plan irks state Rep. RoseLee Vincent and the Saugus selectmen. Veteran Police Offi cer Kevin Nichols seeks the town’s support so he can work up to age 70. The School Committee seeks a public forum to discuss the future configuration of grades using Belmonte Middle School and Veterans Memorial Elementary School. The Baker-Polito Administraderly uncle. A Report shows a major spike in police response to overdose calls during 2019, with six fatalities. Town Manager Scott Crabtree unveils his spending plan, with caution. Revere City Councillor-at-large Jessica Giannino announces her candidacy for state Rep. Vincent’s seat. The West Side fi re station tops the “to do” list selectmen receive during a citizen input session; selectmen hear testimony REVIEW 2020 | SEE PAGE 9 SNOW BLOWER SALES, SERVICE & REPAIRS Pickup/Delivery Available 1039 BROADWAY, REVERE 781-289-6466 781-289-6466 WWW.BIKERSOUTFITTER.COM For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate WWW.BIKERSOUTFITTER.COM Newspapers at 617-387-2200 or Info@advocatenews.net ZOOMED OUT: Saugus residents will remember 2020 for many government meetings held by “Zoom” videoconferencing. Meetings, like this Board of Selectmen’s session in April, seem to some like watching the old “Hollywood Squares” game show. (Saugus Advocate photos by Mark E. Vogler) tree needs to get a compensation study to show how Saugus compares to other towns in paying department heads; offi cials discuss the challenge of fi lling key job vacancies. Preliminary talks about “Wheelabrator” committee reveal a potential clash of agendas. The Selectmen are optimistic that a light industrial project could benefi t East Saugus. Precinct 10 Town Meeting members express concerns about the mission of a future “Wheelabrator” committee. The Selectmen issue a special permit to Hilco Redevelopment Partners to allow light industrial use on Salem Turnpike. The Selectmen vote for the town managtion announces that construction on the remaining sections of the Northern Strand Community Trail will begin as a $13.7 million contract is awarded. An Everett man kills his brother-inlaw at a Saugus gas station on Cliftondale Square before killing himself in an Everett cemetery. The Decareaus refl ect on 67 years of love, marriage and family in Saugus. State Rep. RoseLee Vincent announces she will not seek reelection to the Mass. House of Representatives. The Selectmen will hold a citizen input session for ideas to improve the town. A Saugus woman is indicted for allegedly stealing $400,000 from her el׉ 7cassandra://Hr7y2lTi8Pyr7cUmPwfFbMjlZEoKyhmME0w88KyMUVM0`̰_[\uC_[\uC PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://BNskpez8_K3ZkgL1JqHQisPiL8Pj_PwFdQAFbOwTZXs7`)׉ 7cassandra://ymzbN3adVNBdNBGNBd5sxUFsafOMkXMje93IgRRz6XI͞`J׉ 7cassandra://KRg52-xN-YjD3n1d0hXtM7atBByqymFaJDS2qQ7vsZ8,`̰׉ 7cassandra://S6M_qGsXe_voYBw5NfGU8fjfoDY1UAnGA48DC_-kDikzDd͠_[\uC+ט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://qeS7SbR_V_t1gdZxOJMv1t41bqbN-y2llWfvuz7NqHU_`)׉ 7cassandra://6bfW3_DIrU4oCLx0CXXU8Xo8f57m2iyI0bEoShA7L70ͣU`J׉ 7cassandra://QtvBJCsZ78DoSpvHDjPiiQWAiFYlemPb4_tpP59bfFY.`̰׉ 7cassandra://1oxyYNY3tSZaZhWJ93LkVfWir2aFRrSQ6TkybMfURZI͛͠_[\uC,נ_[\uC0S9ׁH$http://Facebook.com/Advocate.news.maׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uC/̜3 9ׁH"http://www.eight10barandgrille.comׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 6 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 YEAR | FROM PAGE 2 ning the White House four years earlier. But the 76 percent turnout was slightly less than four years ago as there were fewer contested local races. State Rep. Donald Wong (R-Saugus) won his sixth twoyear term without opposition in the Ninth Essex House District. Meanwhile, Revere Democratic candidate Jessica Ann Giannino won the right to replace state Rep. RoseLee Vincent (D-Revere) in the 16th Suffolk District race without opposition. She represents Saugus voters in Precincts 3 and 10. 7) Saugus Public Schools Suwww.eight10barandgrille.com We Have Reopened for Dine-In and Outside Seating every day beginning at 4 PM perintendent Dr. David DeRuosi, Jr.’s announcement that he plans to retire next June 30 – at the end of his current contract and the end of the school year. DeRuosi, who will be finishing up a five-year stint as leader of Saugus Public Schools, appears to be ending a career as a public educator which spans more than three decades. While his departure comes at a time when the school district is trying to cope with the challenges of COVID-19, considerable work also remains in making significant improvements to the town education system, which now boasts a state-ofthe-art Middle-High School. But if DeRuosi keeps his WE'RE OPEN! 8 Norwood Street, Everett (617) 387-9810 Like us on Facebook advocate newspaper Facebook.com/Advocate.news.ma STAY SAFE! word, the transition to a new school superintendent won’t be so difficult. He told the committee in early December that he doesn’t “plan on being any less intense or less driven” as he winds down his five years as superintendent of Saugus Public Schools. Besides completing several challenging projects, he also vows to help the School Committee launch a search for his replacement before he retires. 8) A veterans housing project proposed for the site of the former Amato’s Liquor Store has sparked outrage among residents who live in the neighborhood. The Revere-based nonprofit organization Rising Community & Housing, Inc. plans a 24unit veterans housing project for 206 Lincoln Ave. But residents who live near the site have complained that the project will just add to a longtime flooding problem which has plagued the neighborhood. The neighbors have argued the project is too big for the 23,000 square foot lot and will only worsen flooding in the area. Selectmen Michael Serino and Debra Panetta have also said they have major concerns about the size of the project that has been proposed. But the town’s Conservation Commission voted unanimously in November to approve an order of numerous conditions that it required the developer to meet in order to comply with state wetlands regulations and town zoning codes. At year’s end, the neighbors were contemplating potential legal action by filing an appeal to the Zoning Board of Appeals challenging the project’s Dover Amendment status if necessary. The amendment is a state law that allows for exemptions for nonprofit organizations. Opponents noted that a small portion of the property lies within R-1 (Residential A – Single Family) zoning district. The three-story building complies with B-1 (Business-Neighborhood) zoning district, but it is five feet higher than what is allowed in R-1 district. The Dover Amendment – if it applies in the developer’s case – would allow the project to proceed as planned. Neighbors are hoping that a legal opinion obtained by the Town of Saugus which disputes the project’s Dover status will help them if they go to court. The developer has produced a conflicting opinion quoting the late Saugus Building Commissioner Fred Varone that the project does qualify under the Dover Amendment. 9) Saugus United 2035. More than three decades have passed since the town completed its Master Plan – that invaluable document that offers a definitive strategy to guide a community through future growth and development. In 2020 town officials, with the help of the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC), began an 18-month mission to update the plan with a “KickOff Visioning Forum” for the project called “Saugus United 2035, which allowed local residents to contribute some of their ideas for the betterment of their town. Close to 600 residents participated in a survey. The project will proceed next year, allowing residents to offer public comment on the crafting of the plan. 10) Future of the Ballard School. During the year, citizens had a chance to share their views on the future use of the Ballard School, which was turned over by the School Committee to the Town. Citizens responding to a study committee survey say they prefer to see the Ballard School be used as a preschool or day center. The Ballard School Study Committee filed its report with the Town – offering options on what to do with the old schoolhouse and how to use it in the future. The process of how the town disposes of the Ballard School property could create a model to help guide town officials and residents consider the disposal of other town schools that will be coming off-line in the near future.                                         ׉ 7cassandra://KRg52-xN-YjD3n1d0hXtM7atBByqymFaJDS2qQ7vsZ8,`̰_[\uC׉E:THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 7 Celtic Number 25 By The Old Sachem, Bill Stewart K .C. Jones was a Celtic through and through. He was born on May 25, 1932, in Taylor, Texas, but he spent most of his life in the Boston area. In his career in the National Basketball Association (NBA), he won 11 championships, eight as a player, one as an assistant coach and two as a head coach. He died this week on the 25th, but will be remembered as part of the great Celtic teams of the sixties. Jones is tied for third for the most NBA championships in his career; he is one of only three NBA players with an eight-wins and no losses record in NBA Finals series. He and Bill Russell are the only African-American coaches to win multiple NBA Championships. Jones was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1989. K.C. graduated from Commerce High School in San Francisco, California, where he played both basketball and football. He then joined Bill Russell at the University of San Francisco, the two leading the Dons to two NCAA Championships, 1955 and 1956. The two also achieved the Olympic Gold Medal at the 1956 Olympic Games in Melbourne, Australia. After college he considered playing professional football and he participated in a tryout, then failed to make the cut. But he was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the 1956 second round as the 13th overall player selected that year. Jones went on to play for nine seasons with the Celtics, 1958–1967. K.C. retired after the Celtics lost to the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1967 playoffs. Only eight NBA players (Jones, Bill Russell, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Jerry Lukas, Clyde Lovellette, Quinn Buckner and Anthony Davis) have won the big three: an NCAA Championship, an NBA Championship and an Olympic Gold Medal. After retiring from the Celtics, Jones joined the staff of Brandeis University as the head coach, serving from 1967 to 1970. In the 1970 and 1971 seasons, he was an assistant coach at Harvard University. K.C. became an assistant coach with a former teammate, Bill Sharman, for the 1971–1972 season with the NBA Champion Los Angeles Lakers, and the team won a record 33 consecutive games during the season. On August 8, 1972, Jones became the first ever head coach of the ABA’s San Diego Conquistadors. After one season with the Conquistadors, Jones signed a three-year contract to coach the Capital Bullets in 1973, and the team became known as the Washington Bullets in 1974. K.C. ran the team for three seasons, building a record of 155 wins and 91 losses. The team was swept by the Golden State Warriors in the 1975 NBA Finals, and in the next season had a seventh-game loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. His three seasons contract was not renewed after the high-level losses. In 1983 Jones became the head coach of the Boston Celtics, and with Larry Bird as a player, won championships in 1984 and 1986. He was the head coach in 1986 of the Eastern team in the NBA All-Star Game in Dallas’s Reunion Arena, which beat the Western team 139-132. He led the Celtics to five Atlantic Championships and his squads reached the NBA Finals in four of his five seasons. He retired, surprisingly, after the 1987-1988 season, spending some of the 1988 season in the front office of the Celtics, then resigned to join the Seattle SuperSonics as an assistant coach for the 19891990 season. In 1990 he became the Sonics head coach for two seasons. His next assignment was as an assistant coach for the Detroit Pistons. Jones returned to the Celtics in 1996 as an assistant coach for a single season. He finished his coaching career as head coach of the New England Blizzard of the new women’s American Basketball League for a season and onehalf. The Blizzards made the playoffs in his second year, but were defeated by the San Jose Lasers. During his nine playing years with the Celtics, his statistics were 676 games played, 25.9 average minutes per game, a field goal percentage of .387, a free throw percentage of .647, 23.5 rebounds per game, 4.3 assists per game and a percentage of 7.4 points per game. K.C.’s statistics for playoff games were 105 games played, 23.8 minutes per game, .367 field goals per game, .691 free throw percentage per game, 3.0 rebounds per game, 3.8 assists per game and 6.4 points per game. His greatest season was the 1961-1962 year when he had 9.2 points per game and 9.0 points per game in the playoffs that year. K.C.’s career statistics as an NBA head coach were 774 games, 522 wins, 252 losses and a winning percentage of .674. He won two NBA championships, lost three times in NBA Finals, lost in Eastern Conference Finals once, lost in Conference Semifinals twice and lost in the First Round once. Only in his final coaching career in 1991-1992 with the SuperSonics did his team fail to make the playoffs. Jones was the NBA All-Star head coach five times. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1989 and the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006. K.C. Jones as a player and coach will go down in history as one of the greats for the sport of basketball. ׉ 7cassandra://QtvBJCsZ78DoSpvHDjPiiQWAiFYlemPb4_tpP59bfFY.`̰_[\uC_[\uC PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://vmPz5K2ujYdMOafQSxaezHlA0MK_l0QwvQh2K2eMq_s U`)׉ 7cassandra://KhopYAd4Q47HzcC3-aomx-zPJCb4oF_ntlvwGRR0gQY͟`J׉ 7cassandra://s-ekUr2ovto0DQ9HGCI3Pc8JnI7FdmK3GhuqgXhBMfo*`̰׉ 7cassandra://VrV6ukr4GdZdcn52K123KnylKlIxrIU_hQ50ZZWAJHc|͠_[\uC1ט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://Ibc01ztUeB424ey1ftZqBydMYHIOf2NtFKTNERVibeEx`)׉ 7cassandra://jdmv5C6EIx6e0WTgnr8d0GLolSjB78MnwHvXQRAG3cs͌`J׉ 7cassandra://FNMIaxRtq4cvockS6-Wnu7mUAK02kWDy_nKX7D_2uhI&2`̰׉ 7cassandra://kfcPQH-dQrV3lK-deDeS9AFT2VoY-xF9Dnu4gPjDr6w}͠_[\uC2נ_[\uC6xV9ׁHmailto:twkennedylaw@gmail.comׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uC5f9ׁHhttp://gsoldanorealtor.comׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uC4r9ׁHmailto:Gina.Soldano@era.comׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Crabtree says town has $4.2M in Certifi ed Free Cash Special To Th e Advocate T he state Department of Revenue (DOR) recently certifi ed free cash of more than $4.2 million, Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree announced recently. “It has been a long-standing fi - nancial priority and goal of this administration to have adequate annual free cash reserves,” Crabtree said in a press release issued Gina S Soldano REALTOR® ABR®, AHWD, e-PRO®, GREEN, MRP®, PSA®, SFR®, SRES®, SRS® Broker/Associate Millennium Real Estate 291 Ferry Street, Everett, MA 02149 (857) 272-4270 Gina.Soldano@era.com gsoldanorealtor.com Law Offices of Terrence W. Kennedy 512 Broadway, Everett • Criminal Defense • Personal Injury • Medical Malpractice Tel: (617) 387-9809 Cell: (617) 308-8178 twkennedylaw@gmail.com by his offi ce. “Having a healthy annual surplus (free cash) is one of the foundations for maintaining the Town’s S&P AA+/Stable bond rating, the taxpayers continuing to save millions of dollars in borrowing on capital improvement projects such as the savings in bonds borrowing for the grades 6-12, new Massachusetts School Building Authority Middle-High School and District-Wide Master Plan Solution,” he said. “In addition, following these best fi nancial and management practices in having a healthy annual surplus allows fl exibility for the Town to continue to fund and build the Town’s Stabilization account (rainy day fund) and pay for snow and ice costs within the year they were incurred.” “These are all sound fi nancial management practices highlighted in the recent S&P Global bond rating report,” he said. The Town began recovering from long-term fiscal instability and the midst of a crisis when Crabtree fi rst became Town Manager in 2012. After implementing sound fi nancial practices and policies, Crabtree said he made it his administration’s goal of having free cash HYBRID | FROM PAGE 1 votes in the past to hold this off . To delay the opening was the right thing,” he said. Hatch prefers “traditional learning” as soon as possible School Committee Member John Hatch, who has been a staunch advocate of returning children back to the classroom as soon as possible, said he would support the Jan. 19 date, providing the School Committee in the near future considers plans for students returning to a full week of classes. “It’s time to have a conversation about getting these kids back to a regular learning environment,” Hatch said. “Bring these kids back to a more traditional learning setting. I think we can keep the kids safe,” he said. Prior to taking the vote on whether and when to return to the hybrid model, the committee had to approve a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that had been negotiated with union offi cials representing faculty and staff. “It affi rms for the faculty and staff that we take safety seriously,” School Committee Vice Chair Ryan Fisher said in an interview Tuesday night after the meeting. certifi ed between 3 and 5 percent of the Town’s annual budget. “It was this formal fi nancial management adopted policy that helped the Town reach its free cash and fi nancial goals. The certifi ed free cash has partially been used to help fund deposits in the Town’s stabilization (or rainy day) fund and contributed to the Town’s bond rating increases, which has boosted the overall fi nancial stability, fl exibility, and sustainability of the Town, according to the press release. Free cash consists of unanticipated revenues, account balances and other miscellaneous receipts that were obtained throughout the previous year. The certifi ed free cash of $4.2 million was obtained from higher than projected revenues in the form of permits, excise taxes, tax title revenue, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reimbursement from previous years’ storms, and other nonrecurring, economy-driven sources. In addition, other strategically planned contributors to this year’s certifi ed free cash were the rollover of certifi ed free cash from the previous year and a slowdown of discretionary budgetary spending “It goes into detail on PPE, masks, social distancing, and gets into the nuts and bolts of what happens in a variety of scenarios involving COVID,” he said. “The incorporation of livestreaming was very important, because it keeps classes together regardless of where students are on a daily basis, and it provides stability in scenarios where a student is suddenly quarantined or if a classroom is fl ipped to remote due to COVID.” But not everybody on the committee agreed with the MOA. The committee voted 4-1 to ratify it, with Committee Member Arthur Grabowski being the lone opponent. “I think nothing in this document improves the quantity and quality of education for our students,” Grabowski said. He also took great umbrage with the idea that safety had to be negotiated when it is already the responsibility of the superintendent, school administration and the School Committee to make sure that students go to school in a safe environment. “To me, it’s kind of a slap in the face,” Grabowski told his colleagues. “Philosophically, I have a problem with it…. There are some areas in here that are beyond the scope of the union’s interest.” from the operating budget due to the anticipated negative impact of the pandemic on revenues and collections. “This certified free cash amount will help to maintain fi nancial stability and fl exibility within the Town and sustain efforts towards continuing to maintain and potentially upgrade the Town’s bond rating,” Crabtree said. Recently, the bond rating was reaffi rmed as the second-highest tier, an AA+/Stable rating, with national rating agency S&P Global Ratings. This ranking, which continues to be the highest in Saugus’s history, is saving the taxpayers and Town substantially on current and future borrowing costs. Crabtree thanked the employees, the Board of Selectmen, Finance Committee and Town Meeting for accepting and working within the now long-established financial management policies that made this possible. “Our Town has obtained and now maintains a healthy and sound financial outlook, thanks to the continued support of those serving our community and working towards a unifi ed vision,” Crabtree said. New COVID policies needed Meanwhile, Superintendent Dr. David DeRuosi, Jr., the administration and School Committee members have additional work to do in order for a smooth transition from remote learning to the hybrid learning model. School Committee members insisted that DeRuosi post a schedule and other information about the plan on the School Department website yesterday so that parents are adequately briefed in advance. DeRuosi said he planned to take care of that. Fisher asked about standards for coming back into hybrid learning (i.e., if a parent is aware their child has been exposed, etc., they are required to do ABC...) and that will require a policy. Gould asked about a policy for parents who wish to be hybrid but may wish to stay remote a bit longer, which will also require a policy. “The School Committee should meet to get a policy for safe COVID practices,” DeRuosi said. So that would require a meeting of the policy subcommittee, of which Grabowski and Hatch are members. Whittredge also said the HYBRID | SEE PAGE 14 ׉ 7cassandra://s-ekUr2ovto0DQ9HGCI3Pc8JnI7FdmK3GhuqgXhBMfo*`̰_[\uC ׉ETHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 9 2020 | FROM PAGE 5 from 25 speakers during a twohour session. The town manager’s budget includes $1.9 million less than what the School Committee was seeking for the FY 2021 budget. A proposed Town Meeting article would call on the governor to restart the Regional Saugus River Floodgate project. Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus announces a program to make sure no Saugus students go hungry. March The Board of Health initiates a complaint against Wheelabrator over noise complaints. A Special Town Counsel advises the City of Revere to deny a developer’s request to accept Muzzey Street as a public way on the Caddy Farm site. Saugus voters favor Biden over Sanders for Democratic Party nomination in a presidential primary that draws a low turnout. New Board of Health bylaws initiated by Saugus Action Volunteers for the Environment (SAVE) – banning plastic bags and polystyrene food containers – take effect. School Committee Member Hatch calls the District Review Report the school district’s “bible” for turning Saugus Public Schools around. Six new members – all of them town natives and Saugus High graduates – begin their careers at the Saugus Fire Department. The town manager warns residents to expect “disruptions” to town and school events and non-town/ school events in town buildings as the community braces for COVID-19. Town Meeting members reelect Steve Doherty as town moderator in a hotly contested race over former Town Moderator Robert Long, 22-20, in an 83-minute, seven-round election. Teachers Union President Lavoie addresses the School Committee on Elementary School Grade Configuration. A new Wheelabrator subcommittee created by the Board of Health draws critics – including some selectmen – before it even gets started. A Special Town Meeting backs Saugus Police Officer Kevin Nichols’s proposed legislation to be exempt from mandatory retirement. The town manager bolsters Health Department services to prevent potential spread of virus; Town Hall closes to the public. Saugus town and school officials discuss concerns about COVID-19. Square One Mall closes to help contain the virus. Supermarkets are packed as nervous shoppers face the COVID-19 threat. The Town shuts down municipal buildings in an effort to prevent the spread of the virus. Saugus spring sports are delayed until late April. Kowloon closes to patrons dining in. Prince Pizzeria lets Saugus know that the restaurant isn’t happy about star Patriots quarterback Tom Brady’s decision to leave the New England Patriots, with an electronic sign saying “Really, Tom?” Board of Selectmen Chair Cogliano calls for Saugus Middle-High School construction site work to stop, claiming it exposes workers to the virus. Saugus High School students use colored chalk to write on sidewalks to inspire walkers during the Coronavirus crisis. Saugus COVID-19 cases double; now there are eight residents testing positive, town health official reports. Kowloon Restaurant lays off 90 percent of its workers. Youth and Recreation Department staff make “Boredom Bags” to keep kids busy while school is out. The Saugus Girl Scouts adapt to the virus by holding online meetings. The Saugus Faith Community leader says local churches are developing ways to bring religious services into people’s homes through “virtual services.” April COVID-19 cases spike in Saugus; residents testing positive climb to 24. School Committee members express optimism about remote learning using computers from home. Christine Quagenti discusses her efforts to keep COVID-19 from hurting her daughters’ education. Nicholas DiVola – the son of a Saugus man suffering from COVID-19 – receives a drive-by birthday parade to celebrate turning 17. Susan Curry influences Saugus residents on at least 200 streets to put stuffed bears and other animals in their windows as she wages her “#BeLikeGeorgie” project on Facebook. Coronavirus cases in town double within a week; now there are 51 confirmed cases. The Town hires a third nurse to beef up Health Department protection for residents. Crabtree says the town has more than $10 million in reserve funds that could soften fiscal drain on running town government during COVID-19 times. Selectman Cicolini castigates the Saugus TV Board of Directors and architect for a $350,000-plus cost overrun on the new studio. The town manager extends the deadline for residents to pay personal and real estate taxes until June 1. Confirmed Saugus COVID-19 cases more than double to 137. The School Committee approves a new three-year contract for Saugus teachers; a $2.4 million cost for the school district over its life. The Town adopts a new safety policy for all active construction worksites during the COVID-19 pandemic. Crabtree says COVID-19 is SIGN OF THE TIMES: The Town of Saugus kept running, but Town Hall and other municipal buildings shut down during the year because public health officials deemed them unsafe for visitors. taking a devastating toll on the cost of running town government. COVID-19 cases reach 211 in Saugus; six residents die from the killer disease. First-term Town Meeting Member Joe Vecchione shares his vision for improving the Business Highway Sustainable Development Zoning District. The Selectmen get an initial review of Apex Entertainment’s plans to open a center at Square One Mall. The Selectmen agree with neighbor and vote to deny a request by 7-Eleven on Lincoln Avenue for a 24-hour license. “Saugus gardens in the pandemic” debuts in Saugus Advocate; landscape design consultant and Saugus Garden Club member Laura Eisener begins weekly series on “What’s blooming in town” to make residents’ walks more enjoyable. May Town considers a policy that would require face masks to protect the public from the virus. Carmine Moschella, a 92-yearold woodworking teacher, gets a surprise birthday parade and retirement farewell. The names and faces of Saugus High Class of 2020 members displayed on red banners get hung on utility poles around town as a graduation tribute. Confirmed Saugus COVID-19 cases increase to 298. The Board of Health approves orders in response to the COVID-19 crisis; grocery stores, pharmacies and other essential businesses in town face possible $1,000 fines for violations. Gianna Petkewich of Saugus earns Valedictorian honors as the highest-ranked student of this year’s graduating class at Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School. This happens three years after her brother Nicholas accomplished the academic feat. Gianna completes her education with a perfect attendance record throughout High School and from Kindergarten through Grade 8 of Saugus Public Schools – something accomplished by her sister Alexa and her brother Nicholas. Janet Maestranzi, a registered nurse, helps to fight COVID-19 by making face masks pro bono in her spare time. Mass. Depart2020 | SEE PAGE 10 Happy New Year from Everett Bank! WE LOOK FORWARD TO ANOTHER YEAR OF BEING RIGHT BY YOU. WE’RE CLOSED ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 1ST AND WILL BE BACK OPEN ON MONDAY, JANUARY 4TH. AS ALWAYS, YOU CAN ACCESS OUR ONLINE BANKING AND ATMS ANYTIME. 419 BROADWAY, EVERETT MA 02149 Right by you. 61 7-38 7 - 1 1 10 7 7 1 SALEM ST, LYNNFIELD, MA 01940 7 8 1 - 7 7 6 - 4444 WWW.EVERETTBANK .COM Member FDIC Member DIF ׉ 7cassandra://FNMIaxRtq4cvockS6-Wnu7mUAK02kWDy_nKX7D_2uhI&2`̰_[\uC _[\uC  PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://x42Ik8h_zak_IY-ePpj8LSQwCweJtIL8zYUNxIkufSA 5^`)׉ 7cassandra://yPZNAhUTACWbdpEw3P9y6jEtjOqswDOTmmghP6N4fqE͖_`J׉ 7cassandra://a84hzieHbvCu5bPY9aCgp9H-WGrh86BoAqkCNVnBlag$`̰׉ 7cassandra://0JGTT4mpz47jVKpmo034OiM-sBsqfUBo2fxKui5nSsk͠_[\uC8ט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://wUwMYUhIwisDGgqtTeBuDfm4Sj_dcanOYnVXxVHTO70 $`)׉ 7cassandra://rlA3lFxbbUC6T1F6aCTjk4MxKUJyx1-GyQ8Zf4KX1Uo͙`J׉ 7cassandra://e-m8Ad97CPF6XGlfhFYSWW6i4XZigzqCXMV7rACTqck&C`̰׉ 7cassandra://So8wnCYGdjKDFfutyEkqi8CV1_wnhhwQY51WLm-VXO0V$͠_[\uC9נ_[\uC? @-9ׁHmailto:hs2information@gmail.comׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uC>/b9ׁHhttp://comcast.netׁ ׁ Ј׉E,2Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 2020 | FROM PAGE 9 ment of Revenue rejects the selectmen’s vote of $350,000 to cover a cost overrun in the construction of a new cable TV studio. Confirmed COVID-19 cases rise to 391; the town death toll is now at 18. State Rep. Donald Wong helps secure free masks for thousands in district and statewide. Saugus High School Class of 2020 Valedictorian Matthew Lanney discusses a possible parade-style graduation and the legacy of the seniors who endure the COVID-19 crisis. COVID-19 cases increase to 432; the town death toll is now at 23. Saugus’s Julia Harrington achieves Salutatorian honors – second highest ranking student – among 340 seniors graduating from Essex North Shore Agricultural and Technical School. Nick Finnie of Saugus Boy Scout Troop 62 launches a public service project for his Eagle Scout badge – documenting the names of everyone buried in the town’s two cemeteries. The Friends of Breakheart Reservation Board chair says the beach isn’t prepared for governor’s reopening because there are no lifeguards, no bathroom facilities with handwashing, and no supervision. Saugus High School Class of 2020 Salutatorian Ronnie DiBiasio credits his two older sisters for helping to inspire his scholastic success as the second top student of this year’s class. The Selectmen give Apex Entertainment the green light to locate at Square One Mall. Confirmed Saugus COVID-19 cases increase to 480; the death toll rises to 27. Linda and Robert Patenaude each receive a Medal of Liberty honoring their uncles who were killed in action during World War II. Two veterans in the real estate business say they have seen a lot of changes in the way people buy and sell houses since the outbreak of the virus. Confirmed Saugus COVID-19 cases surpass 500; the death toll is now at 28. Six Route 1 eateries seek temporary modifications of outdoor seating and entertainment from the selectmen. LED Street Light conversion is underway. Saugus police respond to a bird call as a wild turkey in flight crashes through a closed bedroom window. Saugus remembers its fallen heroes in a nontraditional Memorial Day ceremony shaped by COVID-19 in Riverside Cemetery. June Erin Bradley, operator of Peas in a Pod nursery school, fears that the state’s response to COVID-19 will cripple the childcare business. Saugus’s Ashley Firth discusses her nursing duties at Mass General Hospital, caring for COVID-19 patients; she has been hailed as a hometown hero for putting her health at risk. Confirmed COVID-19 cases reach 526 with the death toll at 30. Board of Selectmen Vice Chair Riley proposes creation of an Emergency Relief Fund that would help Saugus residents during desperate times, like the COVID-19 pandemic. A rolling rally organized with COVID-19 precautions in mind honors nine students as Unsung Heroes for their academic achievements. With the start of Phase 2 of Gov. Baker’s Reopening Plan, town restaurants are taking their businesses outside. Confirmed COVID-19 cases increase to 545; the death toll is now at 31. The Selectmen hope for better days by approving an S-2 permit for an unpopular auto repair business on Hamilton Street; the deal hinges on ownership transfer for Saugus Auto Repair, Inc. The Saugus High Class of 2020 turns its cancelled graduation night into a parade of memories for students and faculty. Saugonians continue to partner with Whitsons to feed needy families. The Selectmen set a date for Town Meeting – eight weeks late and with an abbreviated warrant restricted to financial articles. Staff Sgt. Wesley Santos credits COVID-19 for helping National Guard recruitment efforts. With confirmed cases at 553, the town has the 21st highest COVID-19 rate in the state. Front Door Pickup is coming to the Saugus Public Library. The Selectmen approve more outdoor seating for Saugus restaurants. A Veterans housing project planned for the former Amato’s Liquor Store property on Lincoln Avenue draws heavy criticism from neighbors and Precinct 10 Town Meeting members. Counter-protestors and protestors unite during ongoing demonstrations in Saugus Center to support police and against racial injustice. Town Manager Crabtree names Saugus Police Lt. Michael Ricciardelli to take charge as the new police chief. Local veterans lead the charge against a veterans housing project proposed for Lincoln Avenue. Sophia Ponte is named the recipient of a SAVE 2020 Environmental Scholarship. COVID-19 cases increase to 556; the death toll is at 36. Saugus’s Ginnie Rooney, also known as “Ninja Nana,” seeks a black belt in Karate for her 80th birthday. Kowloon Restaurant prepares to open a new Car Hop and Drivein, featuring a 22-foot-high-by40-foot-wide movie screen in the restaurant’s parking lot. July Town Meeting Members take unprecedented safety precautions to protect themselves from COVID-19 as they pass a new “REALLY, TOM?”: The electric sign in front of Prince Pizzeria let everyone know that management wasn’t happy about the departure of New England Patriots star quarterback Tom Brady to Tampa Bay. fiscal year budget. The state reports no new confirmed Saugus COVID-19 cases as the town passes the third consecutive week with fewer than 10 new cases reported; the total remains at 556 cases and 36 deaths; but the town still has the 21st highest COVID-19 rate in the state. Saugus Cable TV gets money to complete a studio, but with audit provisions approved by Town Meeting. Longtime Lincoln Avenue residents Karen and John Coburn say a proposed veterans housing project will worsen neighborhood drainage problems. A Foundation Trust grant allows for 34 trees. The Town finally hires a full-time health director after an 18-month search to fill the position; Stoneham Health Agent John Fralick III accepts the position, receiving high praise from the town manager. Four financial articles receive favorable recommendation from the Finance Committee for the upcoming Special Town Meeting. Saugus TV Program Manager Rachel Brugman discusses future cooking shows and other plans for the new cable TV office and studio. Town officials mourn the loss of longtime local government participant Stephen M. Horlick. State Rep. Donald Wong announces $625,257 in road and bridge funding for Saugus. The state reports just one new confirmed COVID-19 case, raising the total to 557; but the town still has the 22nd highest COVID-19 rate in the state. “Retired” Saugus Police Officer Nichols gets the green light again from Town Meeting to seek legislative approval to extend his career from age 65 to 70. A legal opinion surfaces at the Conservation Commission that says a veterans housing project isn’t covered by the Dover Amendment. A 57-year-old Saugus woman is accused of animal cruelty after the State Police respond to a Revere Beach bathhouse where firefighters were attempting to resuscitate a Chihuahua. As he anticipates turning 100, US Navy veteran Maurice DiBlasi still likes to discuss surviving a torpedo attack in World War II. Four patrolmen begin their careers at the Saugus Police Department. The Coronavirus appears to be leveling off in Saugus as five new cases increase the overall total to 562. Brighter days are ahead at Kasabuski Rink as selectmen and town manager announce termination of the lease and sublease agreement; the state will regain the rink operation and invest up to $4 million. The Saugus Advocate begins “Guess Who Got Sketched?” – a new feature where a local artist goes out and mingles with townsfolk and sketches them. Readers are asked to identify the sketch for a small prize. Town Meeting members vote to rename the town’s Department of Public Works Building after the late Joseph Attubato, a long-time Town Meeting member who served half a century as a town employee – 28 years as the DPW Chief. During a Special Town Meeting, members also vote to reactivate a plan to locate a new Saugus Fire Station on the west side of Route 1 and initiate a plan to seek relief from flooding and take steps to address flooding. Roller World owner Jerry Breen warns illegal dumpers to come back and retrieve the trash they tossed behind his building – or risk prosecution. World War II veteran Maurice DiBlasi receives a surprise birthday celebration outside his home after turning 100: State Rep. Donald Wong is among a small group of well-wishers and he presents a special legislative citation to the Navy veteran, who survived a torpedo attack on his ship. Saugus High Senior Class President Kiley Ronan says she hopes the Class of 2020 “is remembered for their perseverance.” COVID-19 cancels the Merchants Celebration in Cliftondale. Armen Missakiane and Moisey Brailovskiy of A.M. Detail, Inc. of Saugus present a restored and remodeled 1966 Ford Galaxie 500 – which they made into an old-fashioned police cruiser – as a gift for the town: Saugus Police Car 66. Saugus residents turn out to show their support for police officers and President Trump. Confirmed COVID-19 cases increase to 566 and its death toll to 38; this marks the sixth consecutive week that there were fewer than 10 new cases reported. The School Committee approves the superintendent’s recommendations for a “hybrid” learning model when classes resume. Saugus High School graduate Michelle Lee Barowski crosses the stage at Stackpole Field with her five-year-old son in her arms as she receives her diploma at the school’s 149th Commencement Exercises; 155 students wearing masks graduate. Saugus’s new Director of Public Health, John Fralick, discusses key legacies of his life and career. The Planning Department is back at full strength as the Town of Saugus hires Christopher Reilly as the new director of planning and economic development, filling a crucial position which had been vacant for 33 months. Confirmed COVID-19 cases increase to 579 while the death toll remains at 38. August An electrical short causes Wheelabrator to lose power and creates smoke nuisance. Saugus’s new Director of Planning & Economic Development Reilly declares “getting the Route 1 thing right” is his top challenge. The House passes a bill that would authorize local retired Officer Nichols to return to the police force. Two dozen new confirmed COVID-19 cases raises the total to 603; the death toll remains at 38. Three Saugus police officers are stabbed while investigating a report of a stolen U-Haul. Town Manager touts the hiring of new Facilities Engineer Godfred Mbengam as key to operating the new Saugus Middle-High School. Mbengam discusses his role in making sure the new school and other town buildings run efficiently. Longtime Saugus Building Inspector Fred Varone passes at 81. Confirmed Coronavirus cases in Saugus rise to 616; the death toll remains at 38. The Conservation Commission opens a public hearing on the proposed Ballard Street RiverWalk project. The state’s designation of the town as “high risk” or “red” for COVID-19 casts uncertainty over reopening of the Town of Saugus and school buildings. Lewis Lane home owner Tisha Borseti says it’s time for the town to spruce up East Saugus. Crabtree hires John Hume as the new assistant DPW chief. Young vandals damage World Series Park. 2020 | SEE PAGE 15 ׉ 7cassandra://a84hzieHbvCu5bPY9aCgp9H-WGrh86BoAqkCNVnBlag$`̰_[\uC ׉E%THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 11 THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS By Mark E. Vogler H ere are a few tidbits that you might want to know about this week in Saugus. Happy New Year, Saugus Best wishes to our loyal readers, their families and all the good people of Saugus for a safe, happy and healthy New Year. And, hopefully, it is one where we see COVID-19 wiped off the face of the earth. Not only does the killer virus ruin people by killing them or destroying their finances, it’s been my observation that it also breeds tons of negativity in the world. I notice a lot of road rage and reckless driving out there on the road. I also see the negativity in people out on the street or in the stores –people being rude, inconsiderate, selfish and unkind. I guess with all the bad stuff going on, it’s easy to get into a negative mindset instead of having a positive outlook on the world. Here’s an idea. Take one of those calendars or planners that we all get a surplus of this time of year and use one of them exclusively for a notebook to jot down every positive thing that happens to you. Then when you have a bad day, flip through some of your notes that talk about good things that happen in your life. My New Year’s resolutions As the editor of The Saugus Advocate, a couple of things come to mind. Get organized. Get rid of the clutter. Figure out ways to be more productive, which will lead to putting out a better, more interesting newspaper. As always, I’m interested in hearing from our Saugus readers on suggestions or story ideas. Some of the best ideas I received over the past year actually produced some special features for the paper. Laura Eisner’s well-sourced, informed and creative column, “Saugus Gardens in the Pandemic,” added a special dimension to this paper. Anyone who has been out there walking, wondering about the flowers and colors of the various plants and trees that they walk by probably learned something over the past nine months if they read Laura’s column. It was neat how she weaved in some local history with some nature or botany. And for every time Laura got the reader talking about or researching the plant, she took the reader’s mind off the pandemic. I am sure anyone who appreciates plants found her writings worthwhile this year. Wonderful stuff. Another meaningful contribution from a reader was served up by the person who goes by the name of “The Sketch Artist.” Her sketches were entertaining, and I’m sure they sparked some conversation around town, which is what you hope various elements in a newspaper do: get people talking. And when you get people talking, you hear some good stories. Of course, “The Sketch Artist” surely has a local following. There are some fan favorites out there who recognize her work and enjoy the sketches she produces. Two neat ideas which helped enhance the content of the paper for our readers. Our Year-in-Review Usually this time of year, newspaper editors love to trot out Year-in-Review issues and top stories of the year. This year, it was a little more challenging, because how much can you say about COVID-19 without boring the hell out of people? I sat down for three hours one night and leafed through every edition of the last 12 months. I concentrated on the front-page stories and scanned the rest of the papers to pick up interesting stories. I went through the papers a second time and grabbed a headline from each of the stories that stood out and marked it down. This edition is intended to be a synopsis of all of the stories we have covered over the past year. GUESS WHO GOT SKETCHED? In this week’s edition, we continue our weekly feature where a local artist sketches people, places and things in Saugus. But this week, there is no right or wrong answer. The winner will be the first person who calls or emails in their ideas on three great things they think will happen in the New Year. “Just a fun thing to add to the sketches,” the person known as “The Sketch Artist” told me this week. “Maybe it will spark someone out of negative thinking and help them get on with life, hoping and dreaming for better! You never know. I just try to put the little spark out there – maybe it will cause a candle to light within.” So if you feel creative, please email me at mvoge@comcast. net or leave a phone message at 978-683-7773. The first reader to respond between now and Tuesday morning with a creative response is the winner of a $10 gift certificate, compliments of Dunkin’ at the 1204 Broadway Saugus location at Route 1 North. But you have to enter to win! Look for the winner and identification in next week’s “The Sounds of Saugus.” Please leave your mailing address in case you are a winner. (Courtesy illustration to The Saugus Advocate by a Saugonian who goes by the name of “The Sketch Artist”) mony, the gala and fundraiser at the Saugus Public Library, the Lions Club Annual Thanksgiving Football Dinner, to name a few – tons of community effort and pride apparently went into the making of this year’s Christmas Eve Parade. So, it is indeed appropriate for some of our loyal readers to nominate “Santa and his Elves.” We’ll use that as shorthand for everyone who donated or volunteered to make the parade a successful community event in a year where COVID-19 has crushed the life out of so many worthwhile community events. So, we have nominations from two loyal readers: Precinct 6 Town Meeting Member Jeanie BartoCompleting this task made it easier to select what I thought were the top 10 stories of the year. It is not the definitive or authoritative list. But it should give the average reader a good grasp of interesting things that happened in the town during 2020. And there’s no doubt that COVID-19 has been the most dominating aspect of this strange, strange year. Next week, we’ll do another version of Year-in-Review by presenting “The Cover Photos of 2020.” Be well. Be safe. A couple of “Shout-Outs” for the Saugus elves With all of the great activities cancelled this year in Saugus – Founders Day, the Tree Lighting Cerelo: “A Shout Out to Santa and his Elves for the best Christmas Eve Parade ever! The Elves did an outstanding job decorating their sleighs for all of us to enjoy! Thank you!!” Sue Fleming: “I am sure you got many shout outs for the organizers of the Christmas Eve parade. I wanted to add my thanks to all of them and to all of the town employees for the lighting and banners and making the town look beautiful! The parade on Christmas Eve made me feel good about not being to see my grandchildren. I loved it! We all needed it! Thanks.” Want to “Shout-Out” a fellow Saugonian? This is an opportunity for our paper’s readers to single out – in a brief mention – remarkable acts or achievements by Saugus residents or an act of kindness or a nice gesture. Just send an email (mvoge@ comcast.net) with the 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 photo. Food Pantry closed for the holidays We received this announcement from Saugus United Parish Food Pantry: The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry, located at 50 Essex Street, will be closed tomorrow (Fridays – Jan. 1, New Year’s Day). However, the Pantry will open to clients and those needing assistance next Saturday, Jan. 2, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. After the holidays, The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry will resume the Friday schedule between 9:30 and 11:00 a.m. despite concerns over the Coronavirus. The Food Pantry has made adjustments to protect its core of volunteers and the needy people who receive the food. Grab-N-Go meal distribution on hold There will be no Grab-N-Go service over the holiday break. Service will resume on Tuesday January 5, according to Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus (HS2). This group is an integral part of the Grab-N-Go meals program at the Saugus Public Schools, which keeps needy students from going hungry. As a reminder, free school meals are distributed to all Saugus students and take place at the Veterans School at 39 Hurd Ave. on Tuesdays & Fridays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. No sign up is required. Please wear a mask and social distance at pick up. Healthy Saugus-Healthy Students (HS2) is a nonprofit group that helps to offset food insecurity in households. HS2 provides a weekend’s supply of nutritious food for weekends or school holidays during the school year. HS2 operates in partnership with Whitsons Food Service. For more information or assistance, please email hs2information@gmail.com or visit the Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus Facebook page. We have a winner! We have a winner in last week’s “Guess Who Got Sketched” contest. Congratulations to Rick Fail – a previous winner – who contacted us first and guessed correctly. Thanks to many other readers who sent the correct answer by email or phone message. Try again this week. Here’s last week’s answer, offered by the person who goes by the name of “The Sketch Artist”: Well, who is this ‘Guy’ (hint) who does all this?... The answer to last week’s sketch is the very talented, artistic, creative Guy Moley of Saugus Housing Authority! Guy designs and sets up multiple animations, lights, train sets and villages with his own equipment. He creates Christmas and winter scenes at various sites and places. He has set up displays and used his talent for other towns’ benefits as well. Guy is a Saugus High Class of 1987 graduate. THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | SEE PAGE 12 ׉ 7cassandra://e-m8Ad97CPF6XGlfhFYSWW6i4XZigzqCXMV7rACTqck&C`̰_[\uC _[\uC  PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://KfyGIdh8PYwkqH_tNDNgbe5txAw8mKjtgV-ysGEbRBI`)׉ 7cassandra://5Bp0F04EeZ1UsGEUQEw7dplKHQ65TlLRoo-fTskWorM͆`J׉ 7cassandra://VvyowcWOcAsW9kvUOa4R6tjbglllxXP6gk0CCy6vO00)C`̰׉ 7cassandra://TkfTTUWJEAgR_K-5km9OzjDW4HfsfYRUgpP2YbT-tn0 P͠_[\uC;ט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://3L_kRwQHFbpxVKRoUtG1GtARUQ6gXQYl2am8zBrLEr8!`)׉ 7cassandra://uzplGtUTlgQK9jPkofzhajXhj6LwoEpA3lOclJSofgo}`J׉ 7cassandra://M0shlkXJEoLm9AhEX-L26Q78fP_O4tLR4vNPbmyFrKo(`̰׉ 7cassandra://H8QAj0c1Me7XQvy-5dRVEpO0bVQGngx6fPpV2CfqMww L͠_[\uC<נ_[\uCCmA 9ׁHhttp://cast.netׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uCB%9ׁHhttps://www.saׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 12 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Annual Christmas Eve Parade brings the Ho By Tara Vocino alling the holiday parade the best one yet – 60 floats filled with Christmas cheer put a smile on Saugonians’ faces as the annual Christmas Eve Parade made its way through the town highlighted by a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. C Santa waves as he arrives at Belmonte Upper Elementary School prior to the parade. MAKING IT A FAMILY AFFAIR: Front row: Saugonians Robert Fitzgerald, Melissa Sforza, Tyler Splaine and Alex Sforza. Back row: Mod Mike’s Express staff Corina Paris, Autumn Costa, Anthony Sforza and Michael Sforza dressed as elves and reindeers in The Elf Express and Reindeer Crossing. From left to right, John Melanson (The Grinch), Jingles, the Elf, Alexa, the Elf, Mrs. Claus and Santa ended the parade. Children were excited to meet Santa. THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | FROM PAGE 11 Guy and his wife Brenda organize car shows to benefit Cancer groups and to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Guy and Brenda are also known as ...Our Saugus Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus in the Christmas Eve parades! Thank You two, keep on shining! Sincerely, Yours Truly, “The Sketch Artist” Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness session – Jan. 6 This in from Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree: In a recent press release, he says he’s “pleased to announce that the Town is taking the next step towards becoming a Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) designated community by holding a virtual public listening session to review the findings from the first public MVP workshop and to gather additional input from residents. “Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Town is unable to hold the public feedback session in-person. Instead, a website has been created to host the virtual public listening session and gather public feedback remotely. The workshop, which can be accessed online any time by January 6, 2021, was planned and facilitated by a core team of local officials, residents, and the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC). “‘We hope residents and stakeholders will participate in this important community project and use this opportunity to comment on the first MVP draft report,’ said Town Manager Crabtree. ‘The more we are able to learn about the community’s needs, the better this project will be for residents and the Town for future planning.’ “To access the virtual listening session and provide feedback, visit the Town’s Planning and Economic Development Department’s website” at https://www.saugus-ma.gov/planning-and-economic-development/pages/municipal-vulnerability-preparedness-mvp-listening-session “or use the following link: https://www.mapc.org/resource-library/saugus-feedback/. The virtual listening session will consist of watching a 30-minute video that describes the planning project, projected climate impacts specific to Saugus, and climate priorities developed at the workshop earlier this year. It will also include a draft MVP report that details results from the first workshop. The workshop will conclude with a short survey, which allows residents and stakeholders to provide feedback on Saugus’ climate resilience priorities. “The virtual listening session and workshop will remain available online through January 6, 2021. All feedback collected will be included in the final MVP report. “The MVP Planning Grant program, funded through the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EOEEA), provides support for Massachusetts cities and towns to begin the process of planning for climate change resilience and implementing priority projects. EOEEA awards communities with funding to complete vulnerability assessments and develop action-oriented resilience plans. Communities who complete THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | SEE PAGE 13 ׉ 7cassandra://VvyowcWOcAsW9kvUOa4R6tjbglllxXP6gk0CCy6vO00)C`̰_[\uC ׉E THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 13 oliday Spirit and Santa Claus to Saugonians These Sachems wore light necklaces and bulb headbands. A family watched on Central Street. Old-fashioned Christmas lights lit up the occasion. Children stood in awe at the display. THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | FROM PAGE 12 the MVP Planning Grant become certified as MVP Communities and are eligible to apply for MVP Action Grants and other funding opportunities. “During this time the Town is also updating the Hazard Mitigation Plan. For more information about the Hazard Mitigation Plan, please visit the Town’s Planning and Economic Development Department’s web page at: https://www.saugus-ma. gov/planning-and-economic-development. “For more information about the MVP Workshop or for assistance, please contact the Planning and Economic Development Department – Alex Mello, Senior Planner at 781-231-4045 or Christopher Reilly, Director of Planning and Economic Development at 781-231-4044, or the Town Manager’s office at 781-231-4111.” Several opportunities to serve Saugus If you are in a civic-minded mood and feel like serving your town on a volunteer board, the Board of Selectmen is accepting applications for appointment to: • The Affordable Housing Trust Board of Trustees • The Cultural Council • The Cemetery Commission Those who are interested in one or more of these positions may submit letter of interest/resume no later than today (Thursday, Dec. 31) to: Saugus Board of Selectmen Saugus Town Hall, Suite #4 298 Central St. Be on the PEG Cable Access Board Feel like doing some volunteer work for the Town of Saugus? Well, Wendy Reed, Clerk of the Saugus Board of Selectmen, told us about this opportunity: “The Saugus Board of Selectmen is accepting applications for appointment to the PEG Cable Access Board of Directors in the Town of Saugus. These are volunteer / non paid positions for Saugus residents. Those interested may submit letter of interest / resume to: “Saugus Board of Selectmen “Saugus Town Hall (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) “298 Central Street” For more details, please call Wendy at (781) 2314124. Let’s hear it! Got an idea, passing thought or gripe you would like to share with The Saugus Advocate? I’m always interested in your feedback. It’s been more than four and a half years since I began work at The Saugus Advocate. I’m always interested in hearing readers’ suggestions for possible stories or good candidates for “The Advocate Asks” interview of the week. Feel free to email me at mvoge@comcast.net. Do you have some interesting views on an issue that you want to express to the community? Submit your idea. If I like it, we can meet for a 15- to 20-minute interview while practicing social distancing outside a local coffee shop. And I’ll buy the coffee. Or, if you prefer to be interviewed from the safety of your home on the phone or via email, I will provide that option to you as the nation copes with the Coronavirus crisis. ׉ 7cassandra://M0shlkXJEoLm9AhEX-L26Q78fP_O4tLR4vNPbmyFrKo(`̰_[\uC_[\uC  PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://5aT5bg4rFA2EP5RrBQ71hQKDCsTZXFC5rkdmBdgiqKc `)׉ 7cassandra://ZA71DEemM1ImKlJzai4dFnd2b3EL-FFAxK1shYHV9F0͘`J׉ 7cassandra://MY025nch4qvgyczSxTimIqnAr0IvNMEI_lHOMlkeSw4'`̰׉ 7cassandra://6EqNRjBY-xwf8eigTq8lA_mp5WDS0b0PJj2Twz7yNfE0͠_[\uCDט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://KLRPoN7EGlNp2aGUAwH9lG8kQHEcOywp0Du0tdI5jC0 ;`)׉ 7cassandra://X-dOqkoTo9OJYc8w5BAyPij8z_jygA6r5tY2ueB-IWI͚s`J׉ 7cassandra://2rtrxnLXozq_XRQ6czh4BWvP3soVfrBNR6yBOsj47Oc)`̰׉ 7cassandra://WxSVMVQKI1IUSUvA7dz1DWFgC_vvADhvHBzx_SRip_gҩ͠_[\uCE׉E#Page 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 2020 | FROM PAGE 15 COVID-19 cases are confirmed in Saugus as the town surpasses the 1,000 mark (1,025); the death toll is now at 45. The Town installs a new tree on the Saugus Center rotary, just in case there is a tree-lighting ceremony later this year. State Rep. Wong cites COVID-19 issues as his top priority as he looks ahead to his sixth two-year term representing residents of the Ninth Essex House seat (which includes eight of 10 Saugus precincts – everything but Precincts 3 and 10).Crabtree calls for a Dec. 7 Special Town Meeting to get the town’s fiscal house in order before the year’s end – session needed to help set tax rate. Positive Saugus COVID-19 cases surge, ending the town’s hope for a Christmas tree lighting event; a Christmas Eve Santa parade might go on. Confirmed COVID-19 cases increase to 1,080 as the death toll remains at 45. Saugus Public Schools Superintendent David DeRuosi discloses a positive virus case in the school community. Precinct 2 Town Meeting Member Joe Vecchione authors an article to spur revitalization of the town’s declining business district in the Cliftondale section of Saugus. The Conservation Commission approves an order of conditions for a controversial veterans housing project. State police seek the public’s help in catching a hit-and-run driver who fled the scene after striking and seriously injuring a pedestrian on Route 1 South. Wheelabrator officials suggest ASKS | FROM PAGE 4 story to this story. School Committee Chair Thomas Whittredge: Covid really dominated the entire year and overshadowed everything. For me, the top story is Tom Brady not playing for the Patriots. That’s how the year all started. It went downhill from there. Locally, the top story for me stems from COVID-19. The biggest story for me is trying to get these kids back in school. School Committee Vice ways the town can reap more benefits from the trash-to-energy plant – by forming a host community agreement and continuing to operate its ash landfill. The School Committee ponders a December “orientation” to prepare students for a Jan. 4 return to classes. Volunteers – including members of the Saugus High Sachems football squad – discuss helping the Saugus United Parish Food Pantry deliver about 200 turkeys during the annual Thanksgiving food drive. COVID-19 confirmed cases continue to soar in Saugus as the state reports the total at 1,167; the death toll remains at 45. December After more than two hours of discussion, the Finance Committee gives a favorable review to nine articles that will be considered at the Special Town Meeting. Many of the articles have a direct bearing on the town’s ability to maintain fiscal stability as local officials cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. The Selectmen approve a 7 percent increase in the sewer rates for the 2021 fiscal year, a $22 annual increase for the average residential user. Retired Saugus postal worker Karen Coburn keeps the spirit of Christmas alive by making sure kids’ letters to the North Pole still get answered. The Saugus Lions Club Toy Drive is a roaring success. Prince Pizzeria partners with the Fire Department for the annual toy drive. The Selectmen set new tax rates; on average, homeowners will pay $303 more, Chair Ryan Fisher: After the pandemic, it has to be the presidential election and race relations in the United States, both of which show how divided we’ve become. Any of these three would overpower a normal year, and we had all three happening at once, all interconnected. Fortunately, the murder hornets were a dud, or that might have been it! School Committee Member Joseph “Dennis” Gould: The biggest story in Saugus in my opinion, other than Covid-19, was how Whitsons – working with USDA – supplied MASKED THANKSGIVING HEROES: These Saugus High School students had to consider their own safety as the volunteered to help in the Saugus United Parish Food Pantry’s annual Thanksgiving food drive, which delivered close to 200 turkey meals this year. businesses, $246 more. Saugus Public Schools Superintendent DeRuosi announces plans to retire next June 30 – at the end of the school year – while offering to help the School Committee search for his replacement. Precinct 10 Town Meeting Member Peter Manoogian implores his colleagues to reject a 4 percent water rate increase, offering nine reasons to vote “No.” The Town Meeting votes 27-19 to reject the proposed water rate increase, as most members agree it is a financial hardship to Saugus residents struggling during the pandemic. First Congregational Church of Saugus Pastor Katie Omberg invites Saugus residents of all faiths to join in a “Blue Christmas” celebration on the Winter Solstice (Dec. 21). In a recent six-day period, Saugus reports 270 new confirmed over 60,000 meals to our SPS students from March through November and continues until students are back in school full time. Food insecurity for our students was an issue in 2018 we initially addressed by forming Healthy Students– Healthy Saugus (HS2) and giving SPS students food on Fridays for the weekends. When we closed the schools in March and many parents either lost their jobs or had less hours, food insecurity went from the 60 students we were assisting through HS2 COVID-19 cases, raising the total to 1,581 cases; the death toll is now at 46. School Committee Chair Tom Whittredge backs off a call to return to classes, citing “skyrocketing” COVID-19 cases. For the sixth year, Saugus Boy Scout Troop 62 sells Christmas trees – this time to raise money to help pay for an Alaskan trip in 2022. The School Committee picks search committee leaders and launches a strategy for replacing Superintendent DeRuosi. School Committee Vice Chair Ryan Fisher expresses alarm over 500 confirmed COVID cases in two weeks; the Coronavirus count climbs to 1,847 as the death toll remains at 46. Beloved Saugus High Basketball Coach Mark J. “Bird” Bertrand dies at age 57 after being pinned underneath a Bobcat machine that overturned on weekends to as many as 250 SPS students being assisted for every day of week by the “Grab and Go” program, which is managed by Whitsons Food Service. Without this program, many of our students would not have had the nutritional food they needed. Whitsons also reached out to USDA and was also able to give out over 4,000 “Farmers Boxes” of fresh food to seniors and families at the food pantry. There were seven people, led by Jamie Osgood, District Director of Whitsons. Other Whitsons Team MemHYBRID | FROM PAGE 8 committee and school officials “need to make sure parents do their part to make sure kids follow the guidelines.” “Kids need to wear their masks,” he said. There are still parents who feel uncomfortable with sending their children to class in a on him while he was working at home; his tragic death draws an outpouring of community support for his family. World Series Park presses for identification of suspects sought in the latest vandalism incident. The 10th Annual Marleah E. Graves (MEG) Foundation Festival of Trees goes on as planned – while participants practice social distancing. COVID-19 confirmed cases top 2,000 mark (2,043) as a surge linked to the Thanksgiving holiday continues; the death toll is now at 48. Basketball players hold signs in freezing temperatures to pay tribute to their late coach, Mark J. “Bird” Bertrand. The Town’s selectmen and School Committee members reveal their holiday hopes for residents – with their biggest one an end to COVID-19. Arthur Gustafson – Saugus Lion’s Club’s “roaring Lion” and proud leader of a recall effort that removed four selectmen who fired Town Manager Scott Crabtree and helped overturn town manager’s ouster – passes at age 88. The 7-Eleven store on Hamilton Street closes for cleaning after an employee tests positive for COVID-19. Organizers hail this year’s Christmas Eve parade as one of the best as 60 floats – including one carrying Santa – help put a smile on the faces of thousands of people throughout town. Confirmed COVID-19 cases increase to 2,089, according to a report released by the state on Christmas Eve. Board of Selectmen Chair Anthony Cogliano says he tests positive for the virus shortly before Christmas. bers: Karen Moschella, Roy Leblanc, Denise Palladino and Cathy Calderoni. From the Saugus Youth and Recreation Center: Crystal Cakounes and Emily Grant. Q: What is your resolution for the New Year? Board of Selectmen Chair Anthony Cogliano: As far as a resolution for the new year, it is my goal to rid the Board of Selectmen from zoom meetings and get back to work in open public session sooner than later. If we can go out to dinner and go grocery shopping, we should ASKS | SEE PAGE 19 potentially harmful environment where they could catch the virus. Their children will still be allowed a remote learning education. “Parents need to understand ‘remote’ is still an option for them,” DeRuosi said. The School Committee is set to hold its next regular meeting on Jan. 14. ׉ 7cassandra://MY025nch4qvgyczSxTimIqnAr0IvNMEI_lHOMlkeSw4'`̰_[\uC׉ETHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 15 2020 | FROM PAGE 10 The Town Clerk says mail-in voting could be a big motivator for turnout in Tuesday’s primary election. Confirmed COVID-19 cases rise to 638; the death toll is now at 40 – two-thirds of them residents in the two local nursing homes. Saugus drops into the “yellow” category for “moderate risk” of the virus. Saugonian Kevin Nigro shares some fascinating inside information on the new Saugus Middle-High School. Breakheart area residents are banned from parking in two neighborhoods. When it comes to being “green,” the new Saugus Middle-High School is unique. September Tuesday’s state primary election draws one-third of the town’s registered voters. Town officials show up for a “Back the Blue” rally in front of Town Hall. Saugus United 2035 gears up with an opportunity for citizens to offer their suggestions on how to help shape the future of their town. Revere City Councillor-at-Large Jessica Giannino wins the Democratic State primary in race to replace the retiring state Rep. RoseLee Vincent of Revere. Confirmed COVID-19 cases increase to 659 and the death toll remains at 40 as Saugus continues in the “yellow” category as one of the state’s “moderate risk” communities. A Scituate woman hails a state trooper as a hero, claiming he saved her life by using his cruiser to block a couch from the roadway of Route 1 North – seconds before she would have crashed into it. Saugus teachers, students and parents brace themselves for an unusual school year with unique, new challenges – including “remote learning” from their homes via a computer. Northeast Metro Tech shares an update on the school building project. Saugus gets a little COVID-19 advice from Taiwan – plus some masks. Saugus United 2035 kicks off, giving residents an opportunity to participate in crafting a new Master Plan for their town. Saugus returns to the “red” category as a “high risk” community for COVID-19 as confirmed cases increase to 690; the death toll is at 41. Northeast Metro Tech changes reopening to remote-only. The Selectmen say they will take their time in deciding who gets the two available liquor licenses. Citizens responding to a study committee survey say they prefer to see the Ballard School used as a preschool or day center. The DPW Building is renamed for the late Joseph Attubato, the public works chief who devoted his life to making Saugus a better place. Roller World owner Jerry Breen wonders why the state won’t let him reopen when ice skating rinks have the green light. The town’s confirmed COVID-19 cases increase to 702 while the death toll remains at 41. October Renovations of a $4.5 million project are underway at Kasabuski Rink as the state DCR launches its first major revitalization of the ice skating facility in about 25 years. Saugus Town Hall and other municipal buildings may be several weeks away from reopening their doors to residents because modifications are needed to make them COVID-19-ready, according to the town manager. Rev. John T. Beach, the new priest-in-charge of St. John’s Episcopal Church, discusses his Zoom book discussion group that will overlap the presidential election. Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Saugus increase to 721; the death toll remains at 41. World Series Park still plans to have lights installed in the spring of 2021. The Selectmen explore options on what to do with a foreclosed home on Biscayne Avenue – whether to sell the single family home at a public auction or return the property to the original owner in return for payment of back taxes, legal fees and other costs owed the town. Crabtree says new Human Resources Director Tony Wyman will be “an asset to our community.” A small gathering of police, town officials and retired K-9 officers assemble in Riverside Cemetery as representatives of the Saugus Police Patrol Officers Union unveil a black granite memorial to honor eight dogs and seven handlers that served as the Police Department’s K9 units. The Old Burial Ground at Saugus Cullough as a full-time Animal Control Officer. The Town announces the promotion of Saugus Patrol Officer Klimarchuk to sergeant. The state reports 53 new confirmed COVID-19 cases in Saugus during a one-week period, increasing the overall total to 861; the death toll remains at 43. The chairs of the Saugus Democratic and Republican Town Committees size up Tuesday’s Election Day. November Biden takes Saugus in a close A MASKED ELECTION CAMPAIGN: Candidates, campaign supporters and the citizens who went out to vote all had to wear protective masks during the 2020 election. Center gets a new look as the local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) gathers to clean up the grounds and the headstones. Town Manager Crabtree estimates it could cost Saugus $2.5 million to make school and municipal buildings “pandemic proof.” The Ballard School Study Committee files its report with the Town offering options on what to do with the old schoolhouse and how to use it in the future. The Selectmen decide they will not vacate a foreclosure decree that would enable them to return a home on Biscayne Avenue to its former owner. In spite of the pandemic, the 18th annual pumpkin truck arrives to deliver 4,000 pumpkins at First Congregational Church in Saugus Center. Confirmed COVID-19 cases increase to 762 as the death toll remains at 42; the town surges into “high risk” status again. Close to 600 Saugus residents fill out the town’s Master Plan/ Visioning Survey. The Board of Health votes to officially create an 11-member subcommittee composed of town officials and residents to work together with Wheelabrator Technologies, Inc. in resolving a wide range of issues related to the company’s trash-to-energy plant. Board Chair William Heffernan vows he won’t allow subcommittee meetings to degenerate “into a screaming match.” Precinct 2 Town Meeting Member Joe Vecchione seeks a public explanation as to why the Planning Board hasn’t met in more than eight months. The developer agrees to a month’s continuance on a Conservation Commission hearing on a proposed veterans housing project in East Saugus. Renovations are underway at the Belmonte Middle School. Saugus seniors meet in the parking lot of the Saugus Senior Center to knit for troops, the homeless, and premature babies. A week before Election Day, more than 43 percent of the town’s 20,291 registered voters have already cast their ballots for president and other federal, state and local candidates. The Selectmen eye bank building for Cliftondale parking. The Selectmen approve the appointment of Darren Mcvote over President Trump; a 76 percent turnout is slightly less than four years ago as there are fewer contested local races. The state reports 43 new COVID-19 cases confirmed in Saugus during a six-day period as the total climbs to 904; the death toll increases to 44. The Planning Board considers holding its first meeting in months – via “Zoom” videoconferencing. The School Committee votes to put hybrid learning on hold until next January. Richard “Dick” Barry passes away at 89, leaving a legacy of friendly public service for the community he loved. State Rep. Donald Wong (R-Saugus) wins his sixth twoyear term without opposition in the Ninth Essex House District. Revere Democratic candidate Jessica Ann Giannino wins the right to replace state Rep. RoseLee Vincent (D-Revere) in the 16th Suffolk District race without opposition. She represents Saugus voters in Precincts 3 and 10. More than 50 people attend an unusual Veterans Day Service that was tempered by COVID-19 concerns and a mission to keep the participants safe. More than 100 new 2020 | SEE PAGE 14 ׉ 7cassandra://2rtrxnLXozq_XRQ6czh4BWvP3soVfrBNR6yBOsj47Oc)`̰_[\uC_[\uC PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://SIL_YtIcU6m47Kki91j-ZkUEYUEHr10Xa3SZ-9gPx5o`)׉ 7cassandra://xUlNJxUVuYRJ_4qYa0WTDNhccaqAFOT1WaU01d2ghZc͂p`J׉ 7cassandra://_3vzZ3HRXNZ7LfwtePrKMwSNMCTTd_tLFznmmJ2GV5k&2`̰׉ 7cassandra://jpdCoatb-T9_9FvNHHE_fDDw4_KbUHX5_IwsYmKqPnsJD͠_[\uCGט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://HrwQ5VrBtZP1Ex-nE8zv6CUcLGx_gNLJka4dn1kBRJwK-`)׉ 7cassandra://FfzTLo9N9bro6OXUwEuvZpQhOP5ctG2T-eH8zyrr1YI͇:`J׉ 7cassandra://iENOYUppIJD-fEpRobRjfwKvWUcqZCjuiqXmcosuj6s'`̰׉ 7cassandra://Uy9eyHgfRX39Z_P3Jjho1Otc87B2cR5HhMTV5GUyCIY`͠_[\uCHנ_[\uCNX5F 9ׁHhttp://show.comׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uCM"́ 9ׁHhttp://www.boׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uCL̳S 9ׁHhttp://RADIO.COMׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uCKX̡E 9ׁHhttp://DIO.COMׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uCJɁ̐9ׁHhttp://www.jordanrich.comׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 16 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Saugus Gardens in the Pandemic A Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable By Laura Eisener s winter sets in it brings new opportunities for observing wildlife. When there is snow, tracks may be visible, alerting people to the presence of animals and birds who may not usually be seen because they are nocturnal or very wary of people. Sightings of hawks and eagles are more common. Also, animals may find their usual foods more difficult to obtain, so will be wandering closer to houses in search of it. Birds which have chosen to remain here rather than fly south for the winter appreciate seeds and fruit left behind on trees, shrubs, perennials and grasses or seed at bird feeders. Bare branches reveal different views than we can see when leaves are on the trees. Nests that were hidden in foliage in summer are now revealed. There is more opportunity to see the moon through the branches (last full moon of 2020 was Dec. 29). The branching structure of the trees is more easily discernible, and the buds that will unfold into leaves next spring are already formed. On some branches you may still find fruits or nuts that have not fallen off or been eaten by birds. Bradford pear The year 2021 IS KNOCKING ON OUR DOOR: “21” balloons for New Year’s – actually a celebration for Andrew Silva’s 21st birthday. PEOPLE LOVE THESE: This amaryllis in a Saugus kitchen is one of the most popular gift plants for winter. (Courtesy photos to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) (Pyrus calleryana ‘Bradford’), a popular street tree in many parts of Saugus, has a distinctive egg-shaped crown, espein average home conditions make it a very popular gift and indoor decorative plant. Popular flower colors are red, pink, apricot and white. A bulb purchased in late fall or winter is likely to produce a stalk with four blossoms, and sometimes a second stalk of flowers will appear soon after. Leaves will not usually appear until the flowers have finished. Bulbs can be forced into bloom in pots of soil or in a special shaped jar which allows the roots to grow in waThe large blossoms make it easy to see basic flower parts, so your winter decoration may be a great excuse for a botany lesson! The long nearly white style that extends down beyond the lowA PAIR OF SPECIAL BIRDS: The tree at Rockefeller Center in NYC may have had its owl, but this tree in Lynnhurst was a perch for two bald eagles in late December. cially when young. It still has tiny 1/4", speckled brown fruit on many branches. The fruit’s rounded shape will remind you more of an apple than a pear. Because of its small size, the fruit will not require much if any cleanup. Amaryllis (Hippeastrum A POPULAR SAUGUS STREET TREE: Silhouette of Bradford pear on Hitching Hill Road shows its classic egg-shaped crown. spp.) is a very popular indoor bulb from South America – it would not survive outdoors in our soil the way hardy bulbs like tulips, daffodils and crocus do, but its ability to produce large, showy flowers ter without rotting the bulb. Bulbs grown in soil have a good likelihood of blooming the following year if they get watered regularly when in leaf, are given sunlight through the summer and are brought back indoors before frost in fall. Bulbs coated with wax will not usually survive until the next bloom season, but if the wax is removed after the first bloom and the bulb develops leaves, it does have a chance of blooming again in subsequent seasons. er petal is part of the pistil, or “female” part of the flower. At the tip of this is the stigma, which receives the pollen. The stigma of an amaryllis is trifid form, which means it has three lobes. Surrounding the pistil and a little shorter are the six stamens. They look like tiny hot dog buns, and if you touch them you will get a dusting of yellow pollen on your finger. Of the six colorful “petals” behind these, only three would be called petals by a botanist. These three are in the inner layer closest to the stamens and pistil, while the three almost identical structures behind those are called sepals. If you think of the flower in bud, the sepals are on the outside. In many flowers, such as roses, the sepals are green and much less showy, often smaller than the petals. However, in amaryllis, lilies and many bulbs, the sepals are colorful and as showy as the petals. The blossoms of tulips and crocuses are other good examples. Where this occurs, the nearly identical petals and sepals can be called tepals. 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, since so many people have taken to walking the streets in their neighborhoods as a way to get some exercise and get out of the house!” ׉ 7cassandra://_3vzZ3HRXNZ7LfwtePrKMwSNMCTTd_tLFznmmJ2GV5k&2`̰_[\uC׉ElTHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 17 Beacon Hill Roll Call By Bob Katzen A message from Bob Katzen, Publisher of Beacon Hill Roll Call: Join me Sunday nights between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. as we jump in my time capsule and go back to the simpler days of the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s and 1980s for my talk show “The Bob Katzen Baby Boomer and Gen X Fun and Nostalgia Show.” My first guest in 2021 will be Jordan Rich, beloved WBZ Boston radio personality, national voice-over artist, mobile disc jockey, emcee, philanthropist, allaround good guy and a mensch, to boot—on Sunday, January 3 at 7 p.m. Jordan, also well-known for his support and work on behalf of many charities, will talk about his new book “ON AIR: My 50-Year Love Affair with Radio.” Jordan currently hosts a podcast at www.jordanrich.com and is co-owner with Ken Carberry of Chart Productions, an iconic Boston-based audio-video production company. His book is available on Amazon. All proceeds from the sales of the book benefit Boston Children’s Hospital— one of Jordan’s favorite charities. There are many ways you can listen to the show from anywhere in the world: If you have a smart speaker, simply say, “Play WMEX on RADIO.COM” Download the free RADIO.COM app on your phone or tablet Listen online at: www.radio. com/1510wmex/listen Tune into 1510 AM if you still have an AM radio Visit us at www.bobkatzenshow.com THE HOUSE AND SENATE: Beacon Hill Roll Call records local representatives’ and senators’ votes on roll calls from the week of December 21-25. POLICE CHANGES (S 2963) House 107-50, Senate 31-9, approved and sent to Gov. Charlie Baker a new version of a bill making major changes in the state’s policing system. The House and Senate adopted some of Gov. Baker’s amendments including scaling back a moratorium on the use of facial recognition software by law enforcement and limiting the influence of a civilian-led commission over police training. A key provision creates an independent, civilian-led commission with the power to investigate police misconduct and to certify, restrict, revoke or suspend certification for police officers and maintain a publicly available database of decertified officers. Other provisions include banning the use of chokeholds; limiting the use of deadly force; requiring police officers who witness another officer using force beyond what is necessary or reasonable to intervene; and limiting no-knock police warrants in instances where children or people over 65 are present. “Today’s Senate proposal reflects the amendments that the governor made to the bill two weeks ago,” said Baker’s communications director Lizzy Guyton. “After discussing the governor’s amendments with the Black and Latino Legislative Caucus, the administration believes this package addresses the issues identified by the governor’s amendments and he looks forward to signing this version.” Sen. Will Brownsberger (D-Belmont) noted the original bill was a full ban of facial recognition techniques. “This [new version] is a partial ban, or a limit, a regulation of them, and a study to explore the need for full regulation. It’s a pretty balanced thing. It’s not what everybody wants, but it’s the kind of compromise that hopefully people can recognize is forward motion.” Massachusetts Black and Latino Caucus Chair Rep. Carlos González (D-Springfield) and Judiciary House Chair Rep. Claire Cronin (D-Easton) did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call to comment on the bill. When the original conference committee version of the bill was approved on December 1, the leaders of the Massachusetts Coalition of Police said in a letter that the legislation leaves police “disregarded, dismissed and disrespected.” “The final compromise legislation is a final attack on police officers by lawmakers on Beacon Hill,” the letter read. “It is 129 pages crowded with punitive measures, layers and layers of new bureaucracy and the abridgment of basic due process rights of police. It was delivered with almost zero notice and zero time for our leadership, our legal team and our members to process it before debate and votes were scheduled.” The coalition still has major problems with the new version. “Our efforts, and those of other police organizations, made an impact in important areas, such as preserving qualified immunity for most police officers and ensuring that police training will continue to be overseen by qualified public safety personnel,” read the latest letter from the Massachusetts Coalition of Police to its 4,000 plus members. “Unfortunately, the legislative process around police reform was mostly opaque, as opposed to transparent. It almost completely excluded law enforcement, even though police officers and their families will be directly impacted more than anyone else in the commonwealth. And finally, the conference comHILL ROLL | SEE PAGE 18 ׉ 7cassandra://iENOYUppIJD-fEpRobRjfwKvWUcqZCjuiqXmcosuj6s'`̰_[\uC_[\uC PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://P19s0E3JoAq4aK_bjVHyZgVodvrLKI2zKB4nmKPI4gE /X`)׉ 7cassandra://57ldRMXqOG1xWsYLMQwkV-Mkxmrt8CkSjr4FuBOQObc͒_`J׉ 7cassandra://lTI8cJDn4fRnw3F8LBv5YY6hBRj-btQJZqc2XjYN0mA${`̰׉ 7cassandra://KTtVF1g8S2mgQ2j7WeLz5t9MtBH2AilzTJ_E39hg3GU4]/B͠_[\uCOט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://0Lzp719SY4zaBjO7aUWpfzhYvmSErMZounDbUPjzReA `)׉ 7cassandra://91elRuYtNeqBJi-QakIOKNdaRHD5mCrrHSLjkclSHtY͜`J׉ 7cassandra://UEhfkgh1ALyiXu5DE3Fu7_d90brt7rCmvL1yTV3swkk*`̰׉ 7cassandra://lwltVlNKbauzbw00Iav3hy4RTWl1yskNjA2VopYgujU3X͠_[\uCPנ_[\uC\Lw9ׁHhttp://neas.org/donate.ׁ ׁ Јנ_[\uC[YG9ׁHhttp://stjude.orgׁ ׁ Ј׉E4Page 18 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 S y Senior What Caregivers Should Sa e a C BY JIM MILLER Know About Medicare h i Seni nior ni r Shld ior Dear Savvy Senior, I am the caregiver for my 81-year-old mother, who recently fell and broke her hip, and have a lot of questions about how original Medicare works and what it covers. Where can I get some help understanding this program? Overwhelmed Caregiver Dear Caregiver, Excellent question! Having a working knowledge of Medicare can help you take full advantage of the coverage and services it provides to ensure your mom receives the best care possible. Here’s what you should know. Medicare Assistance A good starting point to get familiar with Medicare is the offi cial “Medicare & You” handbook that overviews the program. It’s mailed to all benefi ciaries every fall and provides an up-to-date description of all services and benefi ts. You can also see it online at Medicare.gov/ medicare-and-you. If you have a particular question, you can call and visit with a Medicare customer service representative at 800-633-4227. Medicare also works closely with State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP) to provide free health insurance counseling. To fi nd a SHIP counselor in your area visit ShiptaCenter.org or call 877-839-2675. Caregivers also fi nd Medicare’s secure website – MyMedicare.gov – especially useful. After setting up a personal account for your mom, you can view the details of her coverage, track recent health care claims and keep up to date on the preventive services she qualifi es for. Compare Tools Medicare can also help you locate the right health care providers for your mother. At Medicare.gov/care-compare you can fi nd and compare doctors, hospitals, home health agencies, dialysis facilities, inpatient rehab facilities, long-term care hospitals and nursing homes in your mom’s area. What Medicare Covers Medicare can reduce many out-of-pocket medical expenses your mom incurs, but it doesn’t cover everything. Understanding what Medicare does and doesn’t cover can save you time and spare you frustration when navigating the caregiving maze. Here are some key points for caregivers: Besides basic hospital and physician services (which includes telehealth services) and optional prescription drug benefi ts, Medicare covers home health care too. To qualify, your mom must be homebound, under a physician’s care and in need of part-time skilled nursing care or rehabilitative services like physical therapy. Medicare also helps pay for oxygen, catheters and other medical supplies that a doctor prescribes for home use. The same is true for medically necessary equipment like oxygen machines, wheelchairs and walkers. In addition, Medicare covers skilled care in a nursing home for limited periods – up to 100 days – following hospital stays. But it doesn’t cover long-term stays. Patients who need custodial care (room and board) must pay out of pocket unless they’re eligible for Medicaid or have private long-term care insurance. Medicare pays for hospice care too, for someone with a terminal illness whose doctor expects to live six months or less. The hospice benefi t also includes brief periods of respite care at a hospice facility, hospital or nursing home to give the patient’s caregivers an occasional rest. Besides long-term nursing home stays, original Medicare typically doesn’t cover regular dental care or dentures, regular eye exams or eyeglasses, and hearing exams and hearing aids. Likewise, it won’t pay for nonemergency ambulance trips unless a doctor certifi es they’re medically necessary. To fi nd out what Medicare covers, visit Medicare.gov/coverage and type in the test, item or service you have questions about, or download the Medicare “What’s covered” app in either the App Store or Google Play. Financial Assistance If your mom lives on a limited income, you should check whether she qualifi es for help with prescription drug costs or with other Medicare-related premiums, deductibles and copayments. For help with drug costs, visit SSA.gov/prescriptionhelp or contact Social Security at 800-772-1213 and ask about the “Extra Help Program.” For help with other Medicare costs, go to Medicare.gov or call 800-6334227 and ask about the “Medicare Savings Programs.” 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. HILL ROLL | FROM PAGE 17 mittee report completely ignored the historic consensus that had been achieved between law enforcement and the Black and Latino caucus.” “We look forward to being part of future commissions into the procurement and use of body cameras, a statewide cadet program, and impacts of emergency hospitalization,” continued the letter. “However, a lack of proper examination and study into a number of crucial portions of this bill will result in collateral damage that will have a negative impact on many of our communities.” (A “Yes” vote is for the bill. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. RoseLee VincentYes Rep. Donald WongYes Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes BAKER VETOES BILL TO INCREASE ABORTION ACCESS (H 5179) House 107-50, Senate on a voice vote without a roll call vote, approved the bill that would allow abortions after 24 weeks in the case of lethal fetal anomalies and lower the age from 18 to 16 at which a minor can choose to have an abortion without parental or judicial consent. The House and Senate sent the bill back to Gov. Baker after they rejected several of his proposed amendments including raising the age of consent back to 18. This time, Baker vetoed the entire bill. The House and Senate are poised to override the bill—they have suffi cient support in each branch to do so. “I strongly support a woman’s right to access reproductive health care, and many provisions of this bill,” said Baker in a letter that accompanied his veto. ”I support, for example, the provision that would enable a woman to access an abortion where the child would not survive after birth, and the modifi cations to the judicial bypass process that make it more accessible to minors who are unable to obtain the consent of a parent or guardian. I also support the changes that eliminate many outdated requirements and the 24-hour waiting period.” “However, I cannot support the sections of this proposal that expand the availability of later-term abortions and permit minors age 16 and 17 to get an abortion without the consent of a parent or guardian,” continued Baker. “I again urge the Legislature to enact the compromise version … [that I proposed] that would affi rmatively protect a woman’s right to access an abortion but would restore the existing framework around late-term abortions and parental consent.” “Gov. Baker’s veto of this legislation demonstrates a callous and dangerous disregard for the health and wellbeing of the people of the commonwealth,” read a statement from the ROE Act Coalition which includes the ACLU of Massachusetts, NARAL Pro-Choice Massachusetts and Planned Parenthood Advocacy Fund of Massachusetts. “With this veto, the governor has made plain that he has no problem imposing medically unnecessary barriers that delay and deny care and forcing families to fl y across the country to get compassionate care. Our abortion laws are broken, and with two recent actions against equitable abortion access, Gov. Baker is upholding our broken system.” “These provisions are supported by large majorities in both chambers, and we respectfully call on the Legislature to override the governor’s veto,” continued the statement. “Unlike Gov. Baker, legislators understand that merely affi rming the abstract right to safe, legal abortion is not enough; we must protect and improve abortion access so every person can get the care they need. It is up to the Legislature to once again lead where Gov. Baker has failed.” “House Speaker DeLeo is spending his Christmas Eve tripling down on abortion extremism, promising that he will fi ght for young girls to have abortions and babies born alive can be left to die,” said Massachusetts Family Institute President Andrew Beckwith. “Santa is going to run out of coal fi lling his stocking.” “Gov. Baker was correct to veto this amendment,” said Catholic Action League Executive Director C. J. Doyle. “The entire rationale for it was bogus.” “Nothing President Donald Trump’s appointees to the U.S. Supreme Court may do regarding Roe v. Wade will have any impact on the 1981 decision by the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, Moe v. Hanley, which established a right to abortion under the Massachusetts Constitution,” Doyle continued. “This measure was always about agitprop, fundraising and muscle fl exing by Planned Parenthood and NARAL Pro-Choice Massachusetts, who have successfully exploited and monetized liberal paranoia about Donald Trump and the Supreme Court.” (A “Yes” vote is for the bill expanding abortion. A “No” vote is against it. The Senate did not hold a roll call on the bill last week. The senators’ votes listed are from November 18 when the Senate fi rst approved the measure by a 33-7 vote.) Rep. RoseLee VincentNo Rep. Donald WongNo Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes HEALTH CARE AND TELEHEALTH (S 2984) House 157-0, Senate 40-0, approved and sent to Gov. Baker, a conference committee report of a bill that sponsors say will increase access to health care, protect patients and enhance quality care. The bill requires behavioral health treatment delivered via telehealth to be permanently reimbursed by insurers at the same rate as in-person services. A similar reimbursement structure will also be implemented for primary care and chronic disease management services delivered via telehealth for two years. All other telehealth care services will be reimbursed at the same rate as in-person services for the duration of the COVID-19 state of emergency, and 90 days after its expiration. It also eliminates “surprise billing,” the much-criticized practice of charging unsuspecting patients who received health care services outside of their insurance plan’s network for costs that insurers refuse to pay. Other provisions would allow registered nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists and psychiatric nurse mental health specialists who meet specifi c education and training standards to practice independently; recognize pharmacists as health care providers, enabling them to integrate more fully into coordinated care teams; allow Massachusetts optometrists to treat glaucoma; and ensure that critical services related to treatment of COVID-19 would be covered by insurance carriers, including MassHealth, at no cost to consumers. “[We are] pleased the House and Senate conference committee fi nalized a health care bill that takes important steps to protect consumers and ensure access to health care services during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond,” said Amy Rosenthal, Executive Director of Health Care For All. “We commend legislative leaders for making progress on important policies that are critical to the health and health care of millions of Massachusetts residents, and we thank the conferees for their work during a very challenging time.” “This conference committee report embraces the best of both the Senate and House bills to create comprehensive and necessary healthcare reforms,” said Sen. Cindy Friedman (D-Arlington), Senate chair of the Committee on Health Care Financing. “While there is still more to do to improve patient outcomes and access to care, this bill takes a meaningful step forward by ensuring that the commonwealth’s healthcare system can continue to meet the needs of patients during this unprecedented time, and long after the COVID-19 pandemic has ended.” “The conference report continues to advance our goal of transforming mental health care access and delivery in Massachusetts,” said Sen. Julian Cyr (D-Truro), House chair of the Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery. “This legislation will do so much good, but particularly it will expand mental health care access for rural residents, people of color, working families, and young people.” Lora Pellegrini, President of the Massachusetts Association of Health Plans (MAHP) said the group is a strong supporter of ensuring telehealth services for the members and the employers it serves. “Telehealth has been an important tool to ensure members have continued access to provider services during closures associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. In order for telehealth to truly deliver on its promise of increased access to high-quality care at lower costs, it is imperative that market-based negotiations set the reimbursement rate and any extension of mandated rates of payment be time-limited. We applaud the conference committee for ensuring that some telehealth services can be negotiated after the current state of emergency, but we are concerned that it will require health plans to reimburse for other services at the same rate as in-person visits for two years.” “While we are pleased with other provisions in the bill, such as the increased Medicaid payment rates for community hospitals, MAHP is disappointed that the fi nal conferHILL ROLL | SEE PAGE 21 ׉ 7cassandra://lTI8cJDn4fRnw3F8LBv5YY6hBRj-btQJZqc2XjYN0mA${`̰_[\uC׉ETHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 19 OBITUARIES Gary S. Kanarkiewicz 1. What fictional intelligence officer has had champagne over 35 times in films? 2. What does Auld Lang Syne mean? 3. From its start on Jan. 1, 1801, what event was held at the White House until 1932? 4. For the first time, what kind of water sport will appear at the Tokyo 2024 Summer Olympics? 5. On Jan. 2, 1975, a winter destination of monarch butterflies was discovered to be in what country? 6. Nathaniel Currier, an 1800’s Roxbury, Mass., native and part of Currier & Ives, was a professional what? 7. What is the Nepalese word for snow bear – also known as abominable snowman of the Himalayas? 8. What did the “nog” in eggnog come from? 9. On Jan. 3, 1959, what became a U.S. state? 10. How are green, blue, black diamond and double black diamond similar? 11. On Jan. 4, 1639, what Frenchman was baptized who later became known for champagne? 12. W hat person known as “The First American” said, “Be at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let every new year find you a better man”? 13. On Jan. 5, 1914, “Whipped Cream King” Aaron “Bunny” Lapin was born; he invented what spray can product? 14. In the South, Hoppin’ John is a traditional dish for New Year’s; what are its main ingredients? 15. How does the Japanese macaque (snow monkey) often keep warm? 16. “Rock Around the Clock” was a 1954 #1 single for what band? 17. On Jan. 6, 1954, The New York Times reported that a Swanson frozen turkey dinner would soon be locally available for what price: 50¢, $1 or $3? 18. In Scandinavia and Germany, traditional New Year’s candy shaped like a pig is made of what? 19. The Oxford English Dic tionary has how many variant sp ellings of Hanukkah: 3, 11 or 24? 20. Radioactive dating is used for what? ANSWERS Age 74, died on Sunday, December 27. Born in Chelsea and a longtime resident of Saugus, Mr. Kanarkiewicz was the son of the late Stanley and Beulah (Newell) Kanarkiewicz. Gary was a retired letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service and was a Vietnam Navy Veteran. His many involvements included being an accordion player for the Eastern Sound Polka Band; a member of the Saugus American Legion and Saugus VFW; as well as being a member of the Polish Club of Danvers. Mr. Kanarkiewicz is survived by his sister, Marie Mullen of Windham, NH; his dog “niece” Honey; three aunts, Judy Newell, Fern Ruble and her husband Richard, and Eileen Kanarkiewicz; as well as many cousins. In lieu of flowers, donations in Gary’s memory may be made to either St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org or the Northeast Animal Shelter at neas.org/donate. ASKS | FROM PAGE 14 be able to conduct public meetings. With the modifications being made at Town Hall to improve air quality, I hope to switch our meetings back to in person in February of 2021. Board of Selectmen Vice Chair Corinne Riley: I will try my hardest to be more aware of my own ignorance and biases, to listen more and keep my mind open in any situations that arise. One thing I have learned is if you have not lived in another person’s body, you really don’t know what they think or feel or why they have a difference of opinion. Difference of opinion doesn’t necessarily mean one is right or another is wrong; it is an opportunity to listen more, understand more and come to common ground. I wish everyone a Happy, Healthy, Hopeful and Peaceful 2021. Selectman Jeffrey CicoliOf Valley Bend, W.V., formerly of Saugus, age 47, passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, December 17 after a very long battle of Colon Cancer. He was the beloved Gentle Giant of Bruce & Judy Maxwell of Saugus. He was survived by the Loves of his Life, his four boys, to cherish Shane’s memory and live out his legacy, Andrew, Ian, Isaac, and Elijah, Maxwell Strong two brothers, Damon Maxwell and his girlfriend Hilary of Cambridge and Scott Maxwell and wife Leslie of Phoenix, AZ, the twinkle in his eyes’ two nieces, Adilene & Anabelle , the mother of his children, Susan Maxwell, his fun loving and supportive Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and many, many Big Dog friends. Growing up in a wonderfully caring with all-eyes-on-him neighborhood and community, playing to the Max on the American Little League field, starting out his biggest passion to play ni: My resolution for the New Year is to continue to focus my time and attention on what is most important, my family and close friends. As I mentioned, I have experienced significant losses of family and friends in 2020, some were my age. This has really opened my eyes and made me realize how precious life is and that tomorrow is not guaranteed. The work/career will always be there, but it is important to spend as much quality time as possible with the ones you love. Have a happy and safe new year. Selectman Debra Panetta: Every year, I have the same resolution. I try to become a better person: more giving, more understanding, and more patient than the year before. I also try to learn something new every year to continuously challenge myself. In 2021, I’m also going to continue with my guitar lessons. I miss all the community events including the baseball parades, Shane B. Maxwell football in Pop Warner to proudly sporting the Red and White of his home town team The Saugus Sachems, to strapping on his first pair of hockey skates at Kasabuski Rink Swimming, boogie boarding finishing up his day making a sand castle at the beach any chance he got, giving private tours of the Saugus Iron Works when family came in from out of town, and saying his blessings on his day of rest at St John’s Episcopal Church. He was an avid fan of Boston sports, especially the New England Patriots. Shane was a graduate of Malden Catholic High School and had attended the University of Massachusetts and Grenville State College in Grenville, W.V. That brought Shane to Valley Bend, WV, where he embraced the life of a true Mountaineer. He brought his larger the life personality and bright welcoming smile to all he met. He took Ford pride as a Salesman-for Elkins Ford-land, but he got most of his enjoyment from coaching, working with, and watching his sons play for the Tygarts Valley Bulldogs football team. Shane always had his Family first–they were his World. He just couldn’t contain it. From his first set of Big Wheels to his Harley Davidson Motorcycle, Shane thought no ride is too long if you have Good Company, his Family & Friends. His life was always filled with Love, Faith, Devotion and Laughter and letting the Good Times roll. A Celebration of his Life will be held at a later date when we are all able to gather together. holiday stroll and Founder’s Day. It’s been hard on everyone. I wish everyone a happy and safe new year. School Committee Chair Thomas Whittredge: My resolution is to safely get the kids back to school. The second part of my resolution is to stop texting like a teenager. School Committee Vice Chair Ryan Fisher: My New Year’s resolution, after a year as a recluse shut-in married to a pastry chef, is to get some quality time with my treadmill! Strike that. My daughter is five years old and spent a year reminding everyone she met to pull their mask up over their nose and not to get too close. When this is all over, she’s going to Story Land. That’s my resolution! School Committee Member Joseph “Dennis” Gould: The only resolution I have is to beat COVID-19 and keep my family safe until the pandemic is over. 1. James Bond 2. Old long ago or the good old times 3. A public New Year’s Reception 4. Surfing 5. Mexico 6. Lithographer 7. Yeti 8. Noggin – a smal l wooden mug 9. Alaska 10. They are grades of ski runs, from easiest to most difficult. 11. Dom Pierre Pérignon 12. Benjamin Franklin 13. Reddi-Wip 14. Black-eyed peas, rice and bacon or salt pork 15. Soaking in natural hot springs 16. “Bill Haley & His Comets” 17. $1 18. Marzipan 19. 24 20. To determine the age of rocks (January 7 is annual Old Rock Day) ׉ 7cassandra://UEhfkgh1ALyiXu5DE3Fu7_d90brt7rCmvL1yTV3swkk*`̰_[\uC_[\uC PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://05him5ubH7VKO1Xi42kGyK9sbqnNFR_ftDts3ECWv8kf``)׉ 7cassandra://izYgRIe58q3KWpzQxeBdmBkllLm1svgcVCDjyLepNqIͩ`J׉ 7cassandra://_o53KXQutwdGfUwr7HXIJh8UmJ24-3zIky-T6Vs7RP86`̰׉ 7cassandra://s9iJZxHONRfn-Bl73xKMhC8UL-wsxcvoY8jfQsOVcKgD:͠_[\uC^ט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://f3RFFm6FfbPRz57zPGjQA7Z3B73EfBjRiVRIPgvWgl4 ^`)׉ 7cassandra://dUWTFGYGWrFD31FMuolEi9D6Jqj0KLNE-fQYkZ9nDW4͚l`J׉ 7cassandra://1yL6bY6y7FbwypI8-MJNu_XQ8VmW3XmCfqjO1dnxV3c*`̰׉ 7cassandra://O-YY0C6CJFCnHVC6fA-7yJGXrLqe-iDWp8yjQbRU-d0:pP͠_[\uC_׉EPage 20 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 WASTE REMOVAL & BUILDING MAINTENANCE • Landscaping, Lawn Care, Mulching • Yard Waste & Rubbish Removal • Interior & Exterior Demolition (Old Decks, Fences, Pools, Sheds, etc.) • Appliance and Metal Pick-up • Construction and Estate Cleanouts • Pick-up Truck Load of Trash starting at $169 • Carpentry LICENSED & INSURED Call for FREE ESTIMATES! 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ADVOCATE Call now! 781 233 4446 CLASSIFIEDS ׉ 7cassandra://_o53KXQutwdGfUwr7HXIJh8UmJ24-3zIky-T6Vs7RP86`̰_[\uC׉E{THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 21 HILL ROLL | FROM PAGE 18 ence agreement did not address the well-documented and growing concern of surprise billing in a comprehensive way,” continued Pellegrini. “Congress passed legislation which may result in higher premiums for employers and consumers, making it more important than ever that the Massachusetts Legislature establish a policy for out of network providers that is fair, but does not provide an excessive rate of payment. We look forward to working with the House and Senate on this important issue in the next session.” (A “Yes” vote is for the bill.) Rep. RoseLee VincentYes Rep. Donald WongYes Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes COVID SPENDING WEBSITE (H 5187) House 31-126, Senate 4-35, rejected Gov. Baker’s amendment to a bill requiring the state to create a searchable website that will show how the state spends the federal funds it receives to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Baker’s amendment made several changes including deleting a section that requires the site to be updated on a weekly basis and replacing it with a requirement it be updated on a “regular” basis. “I am supportive of the intent of this section and the Office of Administration and Finance is currently developing such a website,” said Baker in a letter attached to his amendment. “However, some of the requirements included in the section are unable to be implemented or are administratively burdensome, such as a requirement that the website be updated weekly. Additionally, I am recommending that the February 1, 2021 deadline to implement this section be extended until March 30, 2021 in order ensure that the site is fully operative.” Opponents of the amendment said a weekly update is important, so people know where these millions of dollars are being spent. They said requiring a “regular” report is too vague and doesn’t mean anything. READERS: PLEASE READ CAREFULLY WHAT A YES AND NO VOTE MEAN. (In the House, a “Yes” vote is for Baker’s amendment. A “No” vote is against Baker’s amendment.) (In the Senate, the vote was on a motion to REJECT Baker’s amendment. Therefore, a “Yes” vote is against Baker’s amendment. A “No” vote is for Baker’s amendment.) Rep. RoseLee VincentNo Rep. Donald WongYes Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes VETOES GALORE Gov. Baker vetoed millions of dollars in funding in the $46.2 billion fiscal 2021 state budget. This is in sharp contrast to last year when, in an unusual situation, the governor signed the fiscal 2020 state budget into law without vetoing any of the $43.3 billion in spending approved by the House and Senate. Beacon Hill Roll Call talked to several Statehouse veterans at that time and not one could remember any other time in the last four decades that the governor did not veto funding in the budget. Baker said his reason for vetoing most of the funding in this fiscal 2021 budget was because it was not consistent with the budget he had filed. Override supporters defended the funding and the programs and said cutting them would be irresponsible and result in a cut in services. Here are some of the vetoes: $500,000 TO HELP LEGAL PERMANENTS RESIDENTS BECOME CITIZENS (H 5164) House 132-25, Senate 38-1, overrode Gov. Baker’s $500,000 veto reduction (from $1,741,575 million to $1,241,575) in funding for a citizenship for “New Americans Program” to assist legal permanent residents of the state in becoming citizens of the United States. (A Yes” vote is for the $500,000. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. RoseLee VincentYes Rep. Donald WongNo Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes $300,000 FOR COMMISSION ON LGBTQ YOUTH (H 5164) House 152-5, Senate 38-1, overrode Gov. Baker’s $300,000 veto reduction (from $800,000 to $500,000) for the Commission on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Questioning Commission (LGBTQ) Youth. The commission would use the entire $800,000 to address issues related to the implementation of the state’s antibullying law designed to combat the rising suicide rate among and incidents of violence and discrimination against LGBTQ youths. (A “Yes” vote is for the $300,000. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. RoseLee VincentYes Rep. Donald WongYes Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes $181,801 FOR PRISONERS’ LEGAL SERVICES (H 5164) House 136-20, Senate 37-2, overrode Gov. Baker’s $ 181,801 veto reduction (from $2,208,332 to $2,026,531 in funding for Prisoners’ Legal Services, a program that provides legal representation for indigent and disadvantaged defendants. (A “Yes” vote is for the $181,801. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. RoseLee VincentYes Rep. Donald WongNo Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes $500,000 FOR SMOKING CESSATION AND PREVENTION PROGRAMS (H 5164) House 150-7, overrode Gov. Baker’s $500,000 veto reduction (from $5,118,155 to $4,618,155) for smoking prevention and cessation program. The Senate has not yet voted on this reduction. (A “Yes” vote is for the 500,000. A “No” vote is against it). Rep. RoseLee Vincent Yes Rep. Donald Wong Yes $500,000 FOR GUN AND VIOLENT CRIME PREVENTION (H 5164) House 151-6, overrode Gov. Baker’s veto of the entire $500,000 for a neighborhood-based gun and violent crime prevention pilot program for targeted work with out-of-school youth and young adults aged 17 to 24. The funding would be used to prevent gun violence and other violent crime in neighborhoods and municipalities with the highest rates of violent crime. Gov. Baker said that not only is this item not consistent with his budget recommendation, but he also argued that $14 million in funding is available in fiscal year 2021, carried forward from fiscal year 2020. The Senate has not yet voted on this reduction. (A “Yes” vote is for the $500,000. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. RoseLee Vincent Yes Rep. Donald Wong Yes HOW LONG WAS LAST WEEK’S SESSION? Beacon Hill Roll Call tracks the length of time that the House and Senate were in session each week. Many legislators say that legislative sessions are only one aspect of the Legislature’s job and that a lot of important work is done outside of the House and Senate chambers. They note that their jobs also involve committee work, research, constituent work and other matters that are important to their districts. Critics say that the Legislature does not meet regularly or long enough to debate and vote in public view on the thousands of pieces of legislation that have been filed. They note that the infrequency and HILL ROLL | SEE PAGE 22 Space for Lease 3 Large Rooms, each with Large Walk-in Storage Area. or Aerobics Studio. Located at Route 1 South at Walnut Street. Rollerworld Plaza, Route 1 South, 425 Broadway, Saugus. Call Michelle at: 781-233-9507 ׉ 7cassandra://1yL6bY6y7FbwypI8-MJNu_XQ8VmW3XmCfqjO1dnxV3c*`̰_[\uC_[\uC PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://zk88sAqcndCuajN2drjhjL242FE8QGlZAfsDF37_ddwB`)׉ 7cassandra://_H_aUbnkzN28Y97-zGxLyszrmnZQjv5DdqVXEzqRmAQͣ`J׉ 7cassandra://8LEbaeUxBDaMcrLo7ZzuvQW2vMB7uhxozZenYNgj6oc/`̰׉ 7cassandra://4kVYVmboGqzDInbI8w4rqxAgCxq-QMSHPluUA3slZW8(͠_[\uCbט((u׉׉ 7cassandra://0KuASMs3IVzsZZ0zYx7kUPrG7t3bwUT9rAIO4e_8x6ch$`)׉ 7cassandra://_w-OANbn5_PhQAFYj6HaijdVPnwuiDVwvof8w098CNY͍`J׉ 7cassandra://L9nWVoj819SjnvGiVe3Xz6OHw0pwD09vLBB4xcQN6uY-`̰׉ 7cassandra://9UtNt3nXyjU1-RGUODGy5bUgIHEzKsQKG_CN0kXJbHY-e5͠_[\uCcנ_[\uCg(9ׁHhttp://www.jrs-properties.comׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 22 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 HILL ROLL | FROM PAGE 21 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 December 21-25, the House met for a total of 21 hours and 19 minutes while the Senate met for a total of 23 hours and 59 minutes. Mon. Dec. 21 House 11:03 a.m. to 1:28 p.m. Senate 11:08 a.m. to 8:57 p.m. Tues. Dec. 22 House 12:13 p.m. to 9:10 p.m. Senate 3:52 p.m. to 7:56 p.m. Wed. Dec. 23 House 11:03 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Senate 10:20 a.m. to 8:26 p.m. Thurs. Dec. 24 No House session No Senate session Fri. Dec. 25 No House session No Senate session Bob Katzen welcomes feedback at bob@beaconhillrollcall.com “YOUR FINANCIAL FOCUS” JOSEPH D. CATALDO DEDUCTIBILITY OF THE PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM EXPENDITURES T he Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 provides for the deductibility for the expenditures paid for with the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan proceeds. This Act just passed both houses of Congress on December 21, 2020. President Donald J. Trump signed it into law on December 27, 2020. This reverses the Internal Revenue Service’s recent revenue rulings stating that the expenditures would not be deductible as the proceeds of the PPP loan represented tax-exempt income. This is truly having your cake and eat it too. Not only do businesses now not have to report the loan forgiveness as income, they now have the ability to deduct all of the expenditures. It’s a big win for businesses that have suffered so much as a result of the Corona Virus. The COVID-Related Tax Relief Act of 2020 (COVIDTRA), Section 276(a)(1) codifies the deductibility of the expenditures paid for with the PPP loan proceeds. COVIDTRA also provides that the tax basis and other attributes of the business’ assets will not be reduced as a result of the PPP loan forgiveness. COVIDTRA also provides for the direct payments to individual taxpayers called “recovery rebates”. As of this writing, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has blocked the increase from the $600 stimulus check to a $2,000 stimulus check. Section 307 of Title III, Continuing the PPP and Other Small Business Support in the Consolidated Appropriations Act states that if a PPP loan is not more than $150,000, it will be forgiven if the eligible recipient submits a certification to the lender with the following information: 1. A description of the number of employees that were retained due to the PPP loan 2. The estimated amount of the PPP loan that was spent on payroll costs 3. The total loan amount No other documentation will need to be provided to the lender. The PPP forgiveness amount also does not have to be reduced by any Economic Injury Disaster Loan advance. REAL ESTATE TRANSAC TIONS 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 Filion, Courtney C Disalvatore, Andrea Hohmann, Michael W Moretti, Gerald J Mcgoldrick, Roberta Warren, Cristina P Buenrostro, Salvador J Dealy, Alexa BUYER2 Haley, Mark J Cronin, Jean M Pietrzak, Catherine J SELLER1 Redmond, Joshua E Silva, Mario Ellis, Julie E Cronin, James E 7 Lindsay Terrace RT Freethy, Lawrence R Cross, Brian Byors, Justin R SELLER2 Redmond, Kellie M Hohmann, Mary Cronin, Jean M Mackenzie, Karla J Freethy, Lynn A Cross, Carrie A ADDRESS 66 Ballard St 62 Hobson St 11 Pranker Rd 9 Thomas St #C16 7 Lindsay Ter 14 Allard St 35 Adams Ave 34 Hawkes St CITY Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus DATE 11.12.2020 11.12.2020 10.12.2020 09.12.2020 08.12.2020 07.12.2020 07.12.2020 07.12.2020 PRICE $465 000,00 $385 000,00 $420 000,00 $297 500,00 $814 500,00 $459 000,00 $550 000,00 $425 000,00 ׉ 7cassandra://8LEbaeUxBDaMcrLo7ZzuvQW2vMB7uhxozZenYNgj6oc/`̰_[\uC׉ETHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Page 23 Follow Us On: COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY SALES & RENTALS Sandy Juliano Broker/President NEW LISTING BY SANDY WE KNOW EVERETT!! Call TODAY to sell or buy with the best! NEW LISTING BY SANDY NEW LISTING BY NORMA SOLD! 67 CLARENCE ST., EVERETT 6 ROOM SINGLE WITH FINISHED BASEMENT NEW PRICE! $549,900 LISTED BY SANDY NEW COMMERCIAL LISTING SQUIRE RD., REVERE $1,300,000 NEW LISTING BY NORMA UNDER AGREEMENT! TWO FAMILY 45-47 SYCAMORE ST., EVERETT $724,900 NEW LISTING BY MARIA SOLD! SOLD! 834 BROADWAY, EVERETT $550,000 LISTED BY ROSEMARIE 32 WESTOVER ST., EVERETT NEW PRICE! $449,900 LISTED BY NORMA UNDER AGREEMENT! 25 HAWKES ST., SAUGUS NEW PRICE! $434,900 LISTED BY NORMA SOLD! COMMERCIAL BUILDING 14,000 SQ FT LOT SQUIRE RD., REVERE $1,700,000 SOLD! 17 EVELYN RD., EVERETT $519,900 Mixed use building, Malden 3 commercial and one residential unit $1,200,000 Open Daily From 10:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. 433 Broadway, Suite B, Everett, MA 02149 Open Daily From 10:0 Joe DiNuzzo - Broker Associate :0 00 AM 5:00 PM www.jrs-properties.com Follow Us On: 617.544.6274 Norma Capuano Parziale - Agent Denise Matarazz - Agent Maria Scrima - Agent Rosemarie Ciampi - Agent Michael Matarazzo -Agent Mark Sachetta - Agent ׉ 7cassandra://L9nWVoj819SjnvGiVe3Xz6OHw0pwD09vLBB4xcQN6uY-`̰_[\uC_[\uC PבCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://qqUwjigeuBDmWD_ojxfpahS6T3VgvhxQB1LpKzxSeUY9`)׉ 7cassandra://7S2MUqBu_jwfzWp6eo9ekbhaNWeqJ4qb2XODZsMRhwc͖`J׉ 7cassandra://dXQhSHNsfKihsV4f8cxtJ2Fw43UwZAWFRxvhSnqr39g.K`̰׉ 7cassandra://VnqGGQLe-vvzWpqKEug2WOXdBD01P3CrWYPKMbynqWg͠_[\uChנ_[\uCj]9ׁHhttp://CarpenitoRealEstate.comׁ ׁ Ј׉ElPage 24 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 # 1 Listing & Selling Office in Saugus “Experience and knowledge Provide the Best Service” Free Market Evaluations CRE CarpenitoRealEstate.com View our website from your mobile phone! 335 Central St., Saugus, MA 781-233-7300 Carpenito Real Estate Would like to extend our Heartfelt wishes for a SAUGUS - 1st AD ALL BRICK 8 rms., 3-4 bdrm. split entry offers 2 full bath, fireplace lvrm. open to dnrm., granite kit., finished LL w/ 2nd kit. & 4th bdrm., updated heat, windows & roof Needs TLC.....$399,000. Safe & Blessed Holiday Season SAUGUS - 1st AD Desirable Indian Valley offers this spacious 8+ room Split Entry Ranch featuring 3-4 bedrooms, 2½ baths, beautiful granite kitchen with granite backsplash, 4th bedroom, laundry room with full bath in lower level, inground pool.............$629,900. SAUGUS - GREAT 8 room Family Colonial offers 3 bdrms., 2 full baths, gas fireplace, granite kit., 1st floor office, 20’ master w/ atrium door to deck, 1 car garage, large lot with above ground pool..........$569,000. MINT! CHELSEA - Admirals Hill offers this 5 rm., 2 bdrm., 2 full bath condo, features include newer granite kit. w/ stainless steel, primary bdrm. w/ private bath & access to balcony, in-unit laundry hook-up, cent. air, 2 parking spaces, additional storage, pool, tennis – great unit – great complex.....$399,000. SAUGUS - Completely renovated 5+ room Ranch offers 2 bedrooms, 2 full baths, granite kit. w/ island seating, 2 fireplaces, 23’ master w/ marble bath, many updates, MINT!!!...............................................$589,900. SAUGUS - six room, two bedroom Ranch in need to updating, deck, two car garage, located on dead end street close to Route 1 and major routes........$449,900.        Kasey Khloe Littlefield Real Estate ׉ 7cassandra://dXQhSHNsfKihsV4f8cxtJ2Fw43UwZAWFRxvhSnqr39g.K`̰_[\uC׈E_[\uC_[\uC P,Saugus Advocate 12/31/20Saugus Advocate 12/31/20_QU\M1