׉?4ׁB!בCטUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://Fn0Pa87MzpNztR0GdjDWBExMRfZ9H0ne3Q5kkLCuIwA`'p׉ 7cassandra://RgwVDowrIS02XIhKt_b63NfwZ99reir8CyCKqKt5pgw͸9`׉ 7cassandra://m3c6nMOMg4A6VU5I0fN0LIQTV_Jv3iK0v0HuRUnglHU:.`hA-Yzx 2נhA-Yzx 2 сb9ׁHhttp://angelosoil.comׁ ׁ ЈנhA-Yzx 21 9ׁHhttp://www.advocatenews.netׁ ׁ Ј׈EhA,Yzx 2_׉ESAUGUS Your Local News & Sports! Scan & Subscribe to Advocate Online! OCAT D Vol. 27, No.23 CAT -FREE- www.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday SAUGUS HIGH GRADUATION A CLASS OF 2025 LEADERS: Left to right, Salutatorian Anowar Mahabub, Class President Hannah Duong and Valedictorian Victor Phan enjoyed Field Day with their classmates earlier this week. Tonight they will deliver speeches at graduation ceremonies set for 6 p.m. at Christie Serino Jr. Memorial Stadium. Please see inside for more coverage of the 154th commencement exercises. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) TE 781-233-4446 Friday, June 6, 2025 Town Meeting 2025 Members vote 35–2 at Special Town Meeting in support of multifamily overlay district article to comply with state law By Mark E. Vogler t least on paper, the Town of Saugus is doing its part to address the state’s housing aff ordability crisis while showing an effort to comply with a state law requiring communities served by the MBTA to have at least one reasonably sized zoning district where multifamily housing can be built. Members voted 35-2 at Monday’s Special Town Meeting in support of a warrant article amending the town’s Zoning By-laws to add an MBTA Communities Multi-Family Overlay District (MCMOD). There were 12 members absent. Precinct 2 Town Meeting Member Peter A. Rossetti, Jr. and Precinct 6 Town Meeting Member Jeanie Bartolo opposed the measure in a roll call vote without explaining why. But it was clear from the few members who spoke on the warrant article that an overwhelming majority were convinced its approval was necessary to avoid a potential lawsuit by the state Attorney General’s Offi ce with the potential for possible fi nes and loss of millions of dollars in state funding. 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O’Brien noted the multi-family overlay district was “carefully targeted,” covering 13 parcels along Route 1 that are already developed or approved for multi-family mixed-use or commercial uses. O’Brien said the approach allows the town to meet state requirements “without opening up any new areas of the town to unwanted or inconsistent development.” “It also helps preserve our single family neighborhood by focusing on new housing opportunities along Route 1 corridor. After considering the testimony of legal requirements, the Planning Board voted unanimously, 4-0, to recommend passage of Article 1,” he said. Serious financial risks for fighting state Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree spoke at length in support of the article, while acknowledging “this isn’t a great situation,” while noting the town has worked closely with a Lawrence A. Simeone Jr. Attorney-at-Law ~ Since 1989 ~ * Corporate Litigation * Criminal/Civil * MCAD * Zoning/Land Court * Wetlands Litigation * Workmen’s Compensation * Landlord/Tenant Litigation * Real Estate Law * Construction Litigation * Tax Lien * Personal Injury * Bankruptcy * Wrongful Death * Zoning/Permitting Litigation 300 Broadway, Suite 1, Revere * 781-286-1560 lsimeonejr@simeonelaw.net MINIMIZING THE RISK: Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree is shown during Monday’s Special Town Meeting advocating for the article establishing a multifamily overlay district on Route 1. He urged Town Meeting members to pass the article to protect the town from undesirable development while complying with state regulations. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) consultant and special counsel over the past year in crafting an article which makes the best of the town’s circumstances. “The MBTA Communities zoning requirement (known as Section 3A of Chapter 40A) is a state law that mandates cities and towns served by the MBTA to adopt zoning that allows for by-right multifamily housing development,” Crabtree said. “The Town’s goal with this zoning article is to get credit for housing that is already built, approved, or in the development pipeline — so that we can meet the state’s reAerial view of MCMOD subdistricts quirements without opening the door to unplanned, unexpected, or inappropriate new development,” Crabtree said. “By creating this overlay district on Route 1 — away from our established residential neighborhoods — we are taking a targeted approach that protects the character of our community,” the town manager said. “If we do not comply by the state’s deadline of July 14, 2025, the Town faces the risk of a lawsuit by the Attorney General’s Office, which could be very costly and difficult to defend. In addition, we would risk losing access to key state grants and other funding sources,” he said. “While no plan is perfect, this approach minimizes the risk of unwanted development and brings us into compliance so we can move forward and protect the Town’s future.” A resident speaks her mind in opposition Kerry Hogan, a Maple Street resident, was the only nontown official representative who spoke about the article. Hogan said she would have preferred to see the town fight the state. “I personally see no benefit to our town by passing this. But I understand that due to the overreach of the state, we have almost no option but to comply,” Hogan said. “I look at this and I see a bill that is designed to improve TOWN MEETING | SEE PAGE 3 ׉ 7cassandra://nFZKgsnL_Ec0sSK702iJXeb_4hQFi-DyXQFGUm4OYPo7`hA,Yzx 2c׉EtTHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 6, 2025 ~ Letter-to-the-Editor ~ Page 3 The Saugus High School Class of 1980 reaching out for 45th class reunion Dear Members of The Saugus High Community SAVE THE DATE - 1980 Saugus High Class Reunion (45th) on Saturday, November 29th (Saturday after Thanksgiving) at the Saugus Elks (1:00 to 6:00 PM, inside hall). We had a couple of recent Saugus Class Reunion events at the Elks (Saugus High Class BBQ 2022 & 2023) and had fantastic turnouts. See Saugus High Class of 1980 Facebook page for photos of turnouts. Much effort went to updating our 1980 Class list of addresses and we expect the same turnout. walkability and limited vehicles, but this has a requirement of a minimum of two cars per unit and potentially 2,600 cars on Route 1. I look at this and see an impact to the schools that are already bursting at the seams. I’m worried about our police, who are already understaffed, and our firefighters and emergency services,” Hogan said. “But mainly, I see no benefit to the residents. I see 1,163 units, and the residents here are, just like everybody else in the nation, we’re facing a housing crisis, too,” she said. “I would like to see something that was worked into this in some way, shape or form that will give at least a benefit to residents to give them first crack at the apartments, at the bare minimum. We’re all struggling with housing, too. “I would like to say ‘No’ and be one of the towns that fights this. I know that’s something this town isn’t going to do. It’s incredibly disheartening to have an article that is so impactful to our town and we have seven members of the public [in the audience] and 12 absent Town Meeting members.” Selectman Michael Serino testified that a number of residents he had spoken with were “not happy about this [the artiInvite Saugus High friends from other classes that you may want to be at our 1980 Class Reunion. Our last Saugus Class BBQ events a couple of years ago had 3 sisters from 3 different classes attend and they had a blast - so many loved seeing them and appreciated them being there. So many old friends reconnecting after decades. Friends from overseas and across the country came. Saugus Classmates that left in Jr. High and that went to other High Schools came. How special it was for so many people to see each other after over 40 years. TOWN MEETING | FROM PAGE 2 cle].” “I’m not either,” he added. “But I think, strategically — the consultant, the manager and the attorney… They did a good job of putting this together. It uses existing housing that has already been built on Route 1 and doesn’t have any impact on the town in our neighborhood,” Serino said. Serino noted his opposition to efforts by developers to propose multifamily housing projects in parts of town that he didn’t consider desirable, like Cliftondale Square. Those efforts failed. “After Cliftondale Square, I wouldn’t be surprised if they offer this type of development in Saugus Center,” Serino said. “I think this is really the best option for the town. I think they did a good job. It protects our neighborhood and the character of our town as a small town,” Serino said. Precinct 10 Town Meeting Member Martin Costello said he wants to make sure that town officials would continue to monitor the situation so that future projects in the multifamily overlay district don’t have an adverse impact on the town. “I just want to have it on the record that the town manager, the Planning Board and the Board of Selectmen of this town are going to have significant influence as we move forReach out to your friends that are not on Facebook to give them some early notice in case they may want to attend and need to make travel plans. Some of our Classmates have kept in touch with some of our High School teachers and they attended our last 2 Saugus High Reunion events - we hope they’ll join us again. Feel free to reach out to any of your favorite teachers that you may want there - I’m sure they would love to hear from you. Mark your calendars Saturday November 29th (Saturday after Thanksgiving) and reach out to your friends that you’d ward on this so we don’t get into a situation where we have a ‘Wild West’ situation with development along the corridor where the MCMOD projects are supposed to commence,” Costello told his colleagues. Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell filed a lawsuit last year against the Town of Milton for failure to comply with the MBTA Communities Law. Defending that lawsuit has cost the town more than a million dollars while exposing Milton to possible fines and potential loss of state funds. The bipartisan MBTA Communities Law was passed by the Legislature overwhelmingly in 2021 and was signed into law by then-Governor Charles D. Baker. State officials regard it as an important step to address the Commonwealth’s housing crisis by providing more multifamily housing, the shortage of which causes housing prices to continue to rise. “The housing affordability crisis disproportionately impacts working families, young people, and communities of color, and impedes the state’s economic growth. The MBTA Communities Law also mandates that the housing must be suitable for families with children and not age restricted,” Campbell’s Office said. like to see there. Saugus High Class of 1980 and friends. More information is forthcoming. Any questions, please feel free to reach out to Andrea or Pete: Andrea Saunders (1980 Class President) paulgreens@aol.com 978-482-5787 or Pete Nicolo 978-815-8234 PSNicolo2533@comcast.net 425r Broadway, Saugus Located adjacent to Kohls Plaza Route 1 South in Saugus at the intersection of Walnut Street We are on MBTA Bus Route 429 781-231-1111 We are a Skating Rink with Bowling Alleys, Arcade and two TV’s where the ball games are always on! 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Vogler S augus High School Class President Hannah Duong, 18, said she plans on attending the University of Pennsylvania in the fall to study Biology with hopes of becoming a doctor. Victor Phan, 18, the Valedictorian in the Class of 2025, and Anowar Mahabub,18, the Salutatorian, are both headed to the University of Massachusetts Lowell. Phan plans on studying Electrical Engineering. Mahabub said he plans on 8 Norwood St. Everett (617) 387-9810 Open Tues. - Sat. at 4:00 PM Closed Sun. & Mon. Announcing our Classic Specials Dine In Only: * FREE Salad with purchase of Entree, Tuesdays & Wednesdays * Cheese Pizza - Only $10 Catch ALL The Live Sports Action On Our Large Screen TV’s Scan & Follow Us on Facebook! COLLEGE BOUND: Left to right, Salutatorian Anowar Mahabub, Class President Hannah Duong and Valedictorian Victor Phan have huge plans of furthering their education after they graduate tonight at Christie Serino Jr. Memorial Stadium. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. 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There will be 176 Saugus High School students receiving diplomas during graduation ceremonies set for 6 p.m. at Christie Serino Jr. Memorial Stadium. An additional four students will be earning Certificates of Attainment. Here’s a breakdown of where the Saugus High School Class of 2025 will be headed tonight after spending their final hours together: Four-Year Colleges and Universities – 106 (60.2 percent) Two-Year Colleges and Universities — 25 (14.2 percent) Other Postsecondary Education – 15 (8.5 percent) Employment – 18 (10.2 percent) Vocational/Career Institutes – 15 (8.5 percent) Other/Year Off/Undecided – 9 (5.1 percent) Military – 3 (1.7 percent) Spring is Here! ׉ 7cassandra://pvqH2ZuMmjuFGtbwuKV1eJoSe8QH1QfODCd4kCktOMs=`hA,Yzx 2e׉E sTHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 6, 2025 Page 5 Corinne Riley prepares to take over as president of the Saugus Lions Club By Mark E. Vogler T he Saugus Lions Club this week installed Selectman Corinne Riley as its next president – the third woman “King Lion” in the history of the club, which began in 1929. “I’m looking forward to being President of the Saugus Lions for the next two years and working with my board to continue the work of our motto: ‘We Serve’ and of course the continued eff orts of fundraising for important eye research,” Riley said this week. Riley, who has been a Lions Club member for eight years, was installed on Wednesday and her two-year term begins offi cially on July 1. She will succeed current club president Tony Speziale. Riley follows Gail Pelletier and Deborah Wells as previous female “King Lion.” “We have continued to try to get new members to be a part of a wonderful and international Club with over 1.4 million members worldwide,” Riley told The Saugus Advocate. “In order to accomplish what we plan to do, like other Clubs, we need more helping hands. We need to reach out to young adults and hopefully get more new members that I know will bring new ideas to the Saugus Club,” she said. “I have a great group of board members, and I am certainly following one of the best presidents our Club has had. I look forward to working with Tony Speziale as Past president as well as my Vice-president Brad Barahona and the rest of the board. They are hard workers will go smoothly, and I look forward to planning events and speakers for everyone to enjoy, as well as serving our community whenever possible when people are in need.” Eugene Decareau, a longtime Saugus Lions Club member, said the club has high expectations for the club’s new leader. “Corinne’s very dedicated and wants to do a lot of community service projects. She’s very community-oriented,” Decareau said. “I expect she’s going to do a great job as president. In fact, I know she will,” he said. THE NEW KING LION: Selectman Corinne Riley was installed this week as the next president of the Saugus Lions Club. Her two-year term begins next month. (Saugus Advocate fi le photo) 50 for sure and bring a wealth of knowledge to the Club,” she said. “Working with such dedicated people, I am sure my term SABATINO/MASTROCOLA INSURANCE AGENCY 519 BROADWAY EVERETT, MA 02149 Auto * Home * Boat * Renter * Condo * Life * Multi-Policy Discounts * Commercial 10% Discounts * Registry Service Also Available Sabatino Insurance is proud to welcome the loyal customers of ALWAYS READY TO SERVE YOU: Our Staff are, Emma Davidson, Jeimy Sanchez, Josephine Leone, Marie D’Amore, Rocco Longo, Z’andre Lopez, Anthony DiPierro, Darius Goudreau, Laurette Murphy, Danielle Goudreau and Tina Davidson. 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The Jack O’Brien Achievement Award is presented annually to the MCSAO member school with the most successful athletic program across all three seasons. It reflects not only championship victories but a deep commitment to hard work, dedication, sportsmanship, passion, and the pursuit of excelFor Advertising with RESULTS, call The Advocate Newspapers at 781-233-4446 or info@advocatenews.net lence in high school athletics. PCSS clinched this prestigious honor by capturing MCSAO Championships in Boys Soccer, Girls Cross Country, and Boys Volleyball, showcasing the school’s year-round athletic prowess and unwavering commitment to cultivating elite student-athletes. “This award is a testament to the incredible dedication of our student-athletes, coaches, and families,” said Phil Signoroni, PCSS Athletic Director. “We’re honored to receive this recognition, which affi rms our mission to develop leaders on and off the fi eld.” Winning the Jack O’Brien Achievement Award highlights PCSS’s success in fostering a culture of teamwork, resilience, and holistic student development through athletics. To read more about the award and its signifi cance, visit the offi cial MCSAO website at: https://www.mcsao. org/achievementaward. 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Upon observing this behavior, Sergeant Rappa conducted a motor vehicle stop of one of the cars involved in the transaction, according to a statement issued this week by the Saugus Police Department. “Chief Michael Ricciardelli credits Sergeant Rappa for acting on his observations and instincts and performing exceptional police work,” police said. “During the search of his car, offi cers discovered and seized a substantial amount of marijuana, marijuana-THC products, hallucinogenic mushrooms, drug paraphernalia and hundreds of dollars in cash.” The driver of the car – Pablo Correa, 34, of Saugus – was arA TABLETOP OF DRUGS: “a substantial amount of marijuana, marijuana-THC products, hallucinogenic mushrooms, drug paraphernalia and hundreds of dollars in cash” taken in a drug bust are on display in the squad room of the Saugus Police Department. (Courtesy Photo of the Saugus Police Department) rested and charged with possession with intent to distribute a class D substance, and possession with intent to distribute a class C substance. Police estimate the street value of the drugs at $15,000. “As a reminder, in Massachusetts, when outside the home, an individual may possess up to one ounce of marijuana or its equivalent in other forms of the product,” police said. “In this case, the amounts permissible by law far exceed that which is permissible for personal use and such amounts, packaging and other evidence seized are consistent with drug distribution,” police said. “Saugus police remind the community that individuals are legally Gerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law Is Your Estate in Order? Do you have an update Will, Health Care Proxy or Power of Attorney? 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INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE 300 Began Way | Woburn, MA 01801 | At the top of the hill 781-512-6801 | LIFE@DelaneyatTheVale.com | DelaneyatTheVale.com ׉ 7cassandra://Dz8HwSkfgPv6rJJdVsw5y4mOU6y5JFVZb4NDAcGaCc02D`hA,Yzx 2hhA,Yzx 2g rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://mgpFX5Zt92seKQIazrHki_Tz-LirgsyJRp-gjchtY3Uw`'p׉ 7cassandra://EDgbl7VZWjCOgxxf8lWmKQAwqeQPEwqA_TZGUcyJoLkͼB`׉ 7cassandra://D8aieia1tZR9cRLmPJ5jtCKDAXuP7VTdZSsSV5Xp7bM;L`hA0Yzx 2טUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://K09eW-pRSAsFbtf-UaTKuGqbFMaf8NF_pXjG5_michw"`'p׉ 7cassandra://rDvNUPKsnWVJzHBlTKNdqonlT3Vqsbv5SnREJM-0TlAͼ@`׉ 7cassandra://OQEn2OyJOWTL6jrzOTVKXgEqBgzmV1i7wpI8-V738ec5`hA0Yzx 2׉E Page 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 6, 2025 Surrounded by trucks and family fun Guy Moley’s Cancer Fighting Angels hosts its Sixth Touch A Truck fundraiser By Joanie Allbee B lessed Sacrament ’s parking lot at 14 Summer St. quickly filled the afternoon with roaring motors, honking horns and family fun. Guy Moley’s Cancer Fighting Angels – which includes Brenda, his wife, Jodi, Alexis, John Melanson, John Gilmore and Darlene Coates – hosted its sixth annual Touch A Truck event last Sunday (June 1) afternoon. “Today’s event was for Breast Cancer Awareness and the National Kidney Foundation because there was no Wakefield Relay for Life this year,” Guy said. Guy’s angels have been involved with “Relay For Life” since his mother, Irene Comeau, passed away with esophageal cancer. The Cancer Fighting Angels have been generously organizing fundraising events for 16-plus years; they aim for two a year. A variety of truck owners warmly welcomed visitors to step inside their vehicles to explore and dream a little. As imaginations ran wild, kids were taking over the drivers’ seats in police cruisers, fire trucks and18-wheeler cabs while smiling parents were snapping photos. The USMC Rescue Boat looked like a Noah’s Ark full of screaming, laughing kids pretending to be adults on duty. Boston Dynamics profoundly demonstrated Spot, the robotic dog. Spot walked over to crowds with the usual canine curiosity behaviors. The kids’ faces lit up at Spot’s personal greetings. Raffles were held and prizes were won while lemonade, games and Country music filled the air. TRUCKS | SEE PAGE 9 Luke DeSisto of Wakefield brought the Marine tow truck he had purchased, which was stationed in Ramadi, Iraq, until 2012 with USMC. Father and son Seth and Levi Hatfield of the Malden Twins t-ball team posed with the truck and Luke DeSisto. (Courtesy Photo of Joanie Allbee) THE PINK PATCH PROJECT CAR: A husband and wife team – Police Officer Dominic Montano and his wife Deanna – were ready to assist with questions and further information about the Pink Patch Project. (Courtesy Photo of Joanie Allbee) Eddie Ardolino, as Batman, posed with one of his fans, Colton Howard. (Courtesy Photo of Joanie Allbee) Spot the Robotic Dog, who assists Boston Dynamic, is multifunctional and greeted the family of Eric Kermelewicz: Eric, son Jaxon in front of him, Nicole McDonald holding baby Mia and baby Nicky and son Anthony in front of her. (Courtesy Photo of Joanie Allbee) ׉ 7cassandra://D8aieia1tZR9cRLmPJ5jtCKDAXuP7VTdZSsSV5Xp7bM;L`hA,Yzx 2i׉ENTHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 6, 2025 Page 9 Eight Saugus students honored with Unsung Hero Award G raduating senior Alex Wallace is “determined to help others in the future,” according to a teacher at Saugus High School. He plans on attending Bridgewater State University in the fall to study Psychology and Liberal Arts. As a Students in Action Club member, Wallace was a social justice activist and leader and helped make positive change at Saugus High through events like the Self Care Fair. Nevaeh Rogers, another member of the Saugus High Class of 2025, has been called a “leader and friend to students with disabilities.” She’s “always willing to lend a helping hand and always has a patient and positive attitude,” according to a member of the faculty. Rogers plans to attend Merrimack College in the fall for Nursing. Wallace and Rogers topped the list of eight students in Saugus Public Schools who received the “Unsung Hero Award” from the Saugus Business Education Collaborative (SBEC) during a special ceremony last week (May 28) in the Saugus Middle High School cafeteria. The Unsung Hero Award is based on a variety of factors, including academic effort, character, maturity, personality, standing TRUCKS | FROM PAGE 8 Melrose Police Dept. Officer John Doherty readily assisted folks to sit on one of their police motorcycles. Luke Desisto of Wakefield brought his Marine tow truck that had seen battle in Ramadi, Iraq, with the USMC until it was retired in 2012. Saugus Police Officer Dominic Montano and his wife Deanna were on hand together to talk and showcase the Pink Patch Project car. Police presented a dog-sniffing demonstration in which the dog performed remarkably well. Dan Sullivan, a Lynn Firefighter/Paramedic, demonstrated the uses of drones. EXTRAORDINARY STUDENTS: From left, Maeve Chiaravallotti, Ava Newbury, Ava Najem, Ryder Cutelis, WIN Waste Innovations Fuel and Ash Manager Brooke Miles, Superintendent of Schools Mike Hashem, Saugus Business Education Collaborative President Peter Rossetti Jr., Alex Wallace, Kai Torres, Arthur Freitas and Nevaeh Rogers last week during the annual Unsung Hero Award presentation at Saugus Middle High School. The program was organized by SBEC and sponsored by WIN Waste Innovations. (Courtesy Photo to The Saugus Advocate). among peers and staff, school citizenship and contributions to the entire school community. “We understand what it means to do important work behind the scenes,” said Brooke Miles, Fuel and Ash Manager at WIN Waste Innovations in Saugus. “We turn trash into energy, working hard in places most people never see ... That’s why Dan had a propped-up monitor screen in his truck that displayed his drone’s activities and whereabouts. With his remote panel, he pulled the drone from the sky and perfectly landed the DJI R3OT Drone on its home base mat. The Action Emergency Management team stepped aside while kids climbed aboard and took over their vehicle. People were walking around, enjoying slices of pizza from J & M Italian American Cuisine of Saugus at a table they had set up. Later, when all tallies were added up, Guy Moley’s Mom’s Cancer Fighting Angels raised $1,000 – $500 went to Breast sponsoring the Unsung Hero Awards means so much to us. You are doing the right thing, helping others, not looking for attention or praise.” The students received a starshaped trophy, Amazon gift card and citation from the Massachusetts House of Representatives from Rep. Donald Wong. Other students honored this Cancer Awareness and $500 to the National Kidney Foundation. “I am so proud of the events we do,” Guy said. “We have been doing these for over 16 years,” he said. “Back in the beginning, it was a night out at Fuddruckers with raffles. Eleven years ago, we began the car shows. And after someone suggested we do something for the kids, we decided to add ‘Touch A Truck.’ No one knew what it was, but Jim Boland, former owner of Fuddruckers of Saugus said, ‘Guy, if you believe in it, I believe it will succeed.’ Six years later, it’s the biggest in Saugus.” year include: Saugus Middle School student Arthur Freitas – a future member of the graduating Class of 2029: “Arthur exemplifies the qualities of a model student … Arthur helps create a learning environment where others thrive. His presence clearly makes the classroom better.” Saugus Middle School student Ava Newbury – a future member of the graduating Class of 2029: She “balances academics and athletics with discipline and focus. A role model to her peers through her maturity and positive attitude.” Belmonte STEAM Academy student Ryder Cutelis – “Whether offering a helping hand, spreading kindness or simply doing what’s right when no one is watching, you embody the spirit of an unsung hero.” Belmonte STEAM Academy student Ava Najem – “Role model Belmonte student! Whether Ava is helping to organize Belmonte’s beautiful library, or supporting younger students during enrichment, Ava is a confident leader in all that she does.” Veterans Early Learning Center student Maeve Chiaravallotti, seven years old – “My goals: sing well and be a pro at gymnastics.” Her favorite subjects are art, gymnastics and music. She loves family, friends, Taylor Swift and the color lilac. Veterans Early Learning Center student Kai Torres, seven years old – “My goals: When I grow up, I want to be a police officer.” His favorite subject is math. His favorite place is the zoo and his favorite animal is the lion. Our future Police Chief? Miss Olivia O’Grady, 5, got behind the wheel of a Saugus patrol car. (Courtesy Photo of Joanie Allbee) ׉ 7cassandra://OQEn2OyJOWTL6jrzOTVKXgEqBgzmV1i7wpI8-V738ec5`hA,Yzx 2jhA,Yzx 2i rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://5b5MJfq2TPparVMEnvFwMycuBFL2lwI2qAVYFPvFVrY@`'p׉ 7cassandra://cbx-2fPIOUflsaXuwMo0FF990I9BqrNOsDMK6u9wL1g`׉ 7cassandra://VKu9_lf-S2DGZmHJNZMC3O4-9wWJHVEzV7B4-oL2KwE6`hA0Yzx 2טUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://3wh8smIjnA8hSxm2TVY8Cx4LLEPd9_MX8LxZK0SwKWg+i`'p׉ 7cassandra://iHlvtfNcofg3wpI8yduD98Anb9VxjYYQZ0WK54EPnmoͻC`׉ 7cassandra://xRhd0ZjqCioHWJZBDoe3dHkCK_t03S8IdJJkqgCwPrY3E`hA1Yzx 2נhA0Yzx 2́̎9׉H&https://www.gofevo.com/event/MS4MS2025Gׁ ׁ rנhA0Yzx 269׉H&https://www.gofevo.com/event/MS4MS2025Gׁ ׁ rנhA0Yzx 2!99׉Hhttps://ms4ms.org/donate/Gׁ ׁ rנhA0Yzx 267̗9׉Hhttps://ms4ms.org/donate/Gׁ ׁ rנhA1Yzx 2 m;A 9ׁHhttp://folk.eduׁ ׁ ЈנhA1Yzx 2E9ׁHhttp://2025.Thׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 6, 2025 Saugus baseball legend Dario Pizzano to host two fundraisers for Multiple Sclerosis next month at Fenway Park, Belmont Country Club By Joe McConnell D ario Pizzano has been prominently in the news for his baseball exploits since 2003. It all started with his participation on the 2003 Saugus American Little League all-star team that pretty much conquered all opponents to make it to the Little League World Series United States Championship Game in Williamsport, Pa., where they went up against the East Boynton Beach, Fla. squad. As it turned out, they were the last Massachusetts team to make it that far. The Williamsport journey all began for Dario and his teammates with the District 16 title. They then secured the sectional and state championships, before going on to Bristol, Conn., where they became the New England champs, which led to the World Series. Upon returning to Saugus and after being treated as conquering heroes that included visits to the State House and Fenway Park among many other locales – plus writing a book on that once-in-a-lifetime summer adventure – they eventually settled back into everyday life. For Dario, that included returning to St. Patrick’s School in Stoneham. From there, he went on to attend Malden Catholic, where he starred on its baseball team. That led him to a Hall of Fame college baseball career at Columbia University, and a 15th round selection in the 2012 MLB (Major League Baseball) Draft by the Seattle Mariners. He toiled for the next decade as a minor league player in the Mariners and New York Mets organizations, while also getting invites to Major League spring training camps. He also participated in the World Baseball Classic for Team Italy. After retiring from the game, Dario has gone on to work for J.P. Morgan on Wall Street. He’s living in New Jersey and is currently planning his November wedding to his fiancé Samantha Collazo. But beyond work and his personal life, he has also been dedicated to the MS4MS (Mission Stadiums for Multiple Sclerosis) charity to raise money for those afflicted with the disease that includes his mom Tracie, who has lived with MS since 1998. Dario is currently the MS4MS Director of Fundraising, boosting funds and awareness in order to find a cure for the disease. He joined the charity in 2019, while still with the Mets organization, because of his close family connection to it. “I had envisioned myself advocating for this cause and leveraging my platform in any way I could to give back to my mom, who has always put our family first,” Pizzano said. “We host in-person and virtual fundraising events all over the country, with our team growing to over 30 ambassadors. We have raised over $1.5-million in the last three years alone,” the Saugus native added. “Our beneficiaries are the Johns Hopkins MS Research Center in Baltimore and UCLA Health in LA. A portion of our proceeds also go directly to MS Warriors to help with medical expenses, treatments, wheelchairs and scooters among other necessities for the (afflicted) patients and their families.” Dario will now be coming home to host two local Boston events next month – the third annual MS4MS Spreading Orange Night at Fenway Park and the first annual MS4MS Spreading Orange golf event at the Belmont Country Club. The Red Sox game is on Saturday night, June 14, against the rival Yankees. It will be televised on Fox, locally on Channel 25. Fox commentator Ken Rosenthal will be wearing the fundraiser’s orange and white bowtie with its company logo on it to bring attention to his “Bowtie for a Cause” campaign. After the game, the Cask ’n’ Saugus baseball legend Dario Pizzano is with former Red Sox and current Baltimore Orioles outfielder Tyler O’Neill and his mom Tracie at last year’s second annual MS4MS (Multiple Stadiums for Multiple Sclerosis) Spreading Orange game at Fenway Park. The Pizzano’s will be back at Fenway on June 14 for the Sox Spreading Orange game against the rival New York Yankees, which will raise money and awareness once again for this dreaded disease. Dario is currently the MS4MS Director of Fundraising.(Courtesy photo) Flagon is hosting a party that includes food, drink and raffle items. Announcer Tom Caron will be talking about the event on NESN the night before the fundraiser on the Sox pregame show. “Our main event sponsor this year is Wild Sol,” said Pizzano. “Red Sox all-star third baseman Alex Bregman and his wife Reagan are the company’s co-founders, and we have partnered with them on this year’s project,” said Pizzano. “One of our newest ambassadors is Gus Quattlebaum, Vice President of Pro Scouting with the Red Sox. He was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis three years ago and wanted to get involved with the cause heavily,” Dario continued. “So far, he has raised over $100,000 for the golf event, which is being held on Monday, June 16, in Belmont. They will be many athletes and sports executives participating in the golf tournament, including Eliot Wolf and Christian Barmore of the New England Patriots, former Red Sox Hall of Fame great and NESN announcer Jim Rice, Bruins’ defenseman Charlie McEvoy and Caron. We’re still waiting for confirmations from Patriots owner Robert Kraft, and Sox legend and Hall of Famer David Ortiz.” MS4MS charity will also be hosting the third annual Spreading Orange Day at PNC Park, before a Pittsburgh Pirates game on June 8, as well as the second annual Yankees’ MS Night at Yankee Stadium on June 3. “Since the Red Sox are playing the Yankees on June 14 at Fenway, we expect an enormous and rowdy crowd,” Pizzano said. “We secured 350 tickets, 275 of which have already been purchased for that game. There’s still time to get a ticket and join us to support this amazing cause that I am very passionate about. If we sellout before you’re able to purchase a ticket, that’s OK, because you can still join us at the Cask ‘n’ Flagon for the postgame event, or just make a separate donation to our fundraising link.” To buy tickets for the June 14 Sox game, checkout this link on online: https://www.gofevo.com/event/MS4MS2025. If you just want to donate to MS, this link will get you there to make a contribution: https:// ms4ms.org/donate/. ׉ 7cassandra://VKu9_lf-S2DGZmHJNZMC3O4-9wWJHVEzV7B4-oL2KwE6`hA,Yzx 2o׉E,THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 6, 2025 Page 11 ~ Saugus High Sachems Spring Sports roundup ~ By Dom Nicastro DIBIASIO WINS STATE TITLE IN JAVELIN The Saugus girls track and field team made a powerful showing at the MIAA Division 4 State Championships, placing 12th out of 32 teams at Merrimack College and coming within just a few points of cracking the top 10. The highlight? A stunning state title in the javelin from Peyton DiBiasio — who came in seeded 19th and left as the Division 4 champion. “She was seeded at No. 19 and with a 20-foot PR she came and won the state championship,” Saugus coach Joe Alba said. Sophomore Destiny Okoye placed sixth in the 100-meter hurdles and took third in the high jump, earning two medals. Freshman Soraya Mathieu also earned two medals, placing fifth in the 100-meter dash and seventh in the 200. “The story is incredible from DiBiasio upsetting so many people to Mathieu and Okoye who are a freshman and sophomore getting two medals in two different events,” Alba said. “This offseason the recruiting is going to be strong. We have a really good core with young athletes, so once we build around them, we have potential to be a great team.” The trio of DiBiasio, Okoye and Mathieu will now shift their focus to this week’s All-State competition at Fitchburg State University. SAUGUS SOFTBALL TEAM FINISHES 12-9 AFTER STATE TOURNAMENT LOSS TO HUDSON The Lady Sachems softball team gave Hudson everything it could handle in the preliminary round of the MIAA Division 3 State Tournament, but a late-inning surge from last year’s state runner-up resulted in a 16-7 defeat. “This game was closer than what the final score would indicate but this just wasn’t our day,” said Head Coach Steve Almquist. “We knew going into this one that we would have to get off to a fast start and pretty much play a clean game for us to have a chance. Unfortunately, neither happened.” After falling behind 4-0 in the first, Saugus fought back to tie the game 5-5 in the fourth on a clutch twoout, two-run single by senior captain Danica Schena. Eighth-grader Layla Demonte launched a tworun homer in the sixth to pull Saugus within 9-7 — her third hit of the game — but Hudson pulled away with a seven-run bottom of the frame. “Despite the outcome, we made Hudson earn it, and we battled to the very end just coming up a bit short,” Almquist said. “Although it was disappointing to lose in the state tournament this was still a great year, and I am extremely proud of all of these kids.” Demonte finished three-for-three with the home run, two RBI and two runs scored. Schena went twofor-four with two RBI and a run, and senior captain Lily Ventre added an RBI double. Saugus wrapped the season with a 12-8 regular season record and reached the tournament for the ninth consecutive season. The team finished strong, winning seven of its last eight regular-season games, including key victories over Division 1 Peabody and rivals Salem and Swampscott. “We were a young team starting two eighth-graders, two freshmen and two sophomores,” Almquist said. “If you had told me at the beginning of the year that we would finish the regular season at 128, I would have questioned whether or not you were dreaming — but that is exactly what these kids did.” The team graduates six seniors: Taylor Deleidi, Hannah Duong, Alexa Morello, Maya Pina, Danica Schena and Lily Ventre. “Their contributions were immeasurable, and I will miss them all tremendously,” Almquist said. “They are all fantastic players but even better individuals.” Three players earned individual honors from the Northeastern Conference: · Lily Ventre (catcher): NEC All-Conference, hitting an “astonishing .690” on the season. · Alexa Morello (first base): NEC All-Star, hit .351. · Danica Schena (Centerfield): NEC All-Star, hit .394. The air monitoring station at the Rumney Marsh should be working by early fall By Mark E. Vogler A state Department of Environmental Protection official has advised the Board of Health that he expects that the air monitoring station planned for Rumney Marsh “will be fully operational by late summer or early fall.” Director of Public Health John R. Fralick III advised the Board of Health at Monday’s meeting that he received confirmation from Sean Dunn, Deputy Division Director of the MassDEP Air Assessment Branch in Lawrence, that the agency is “getting very close” to air monitoring in Saugus. “Since our presentation in June 2024, we’ve made significant progress,” Dunn advised Fralick in an email last week. “We successfully secured funding for the project, identified a mutually agreed-upon location for the monitor at the Rumney Marsh Reservation, procured all necessary materials – including the air monitoring equipment and a climate-controlled cabinet shelter – and contracted an electrician to install the system,” Dunn wrote. “We are currently working with the local utility provider to bring power to the monitoring site. This process began in December 2024 and has involved navigating several logistical challenges. Most recently, the utility accepted our payment for the required work, and we are now awaiting scheduling. Once the work is completed, our electrician can proceed with wiring the station, after which we can begin monitoring air quality,” he said. Fralick read the letter into the record during Monday’s meeting. Pending an emergency over the summer months, the Board of Health will not be meeting again until Monday, Sept. 1. FUN-damental Basketball Camp Open to Boys and Girls in Local Area T he FUN-damental Basketball Camp, open to boys and girls in local area cities and towns, will be held July 21 to July 25, 2025, at the Immaculate Conception Parish Center, located at 59 Summer Street in Everett. The camp will be held between the hours of 9:00 am and 1:00 pm for boys and girls entering grades 3 through 8 as of September 2025.The cost of the camp is $125. Tony Ferullo, boys’ varsity basketball coach at Mystic Valley Regional Charter School in Malden, will be the Director of the camp. The purpose of the camp is: To provide all campers with the fundamental tools to help them become better basketball players; To create a positive atmosphere where the camper will learn and have fun at the same time; and To instill the spirit of the game into all campers and inspire them to continue playing the game either competitively or just for fun. Each camper, who will receive a T-shirt and certificate, will participate in various drills, scrimmages and individual contests.Special guests will speak and share their personal basketball tips. An awards ceremony will take place on the last day of the camp, and parents and friends are welcome to attend. For more information about the FUN-damental Basketball Camp, please contact Camp Director Tony Ferullo: 857-312-7002 or tferullo@suffolk.edu. ׉ 7cassandra://xRhd0ZjqCioHWJZBDoe3dHkCK_t03S8IdJJkqgCwPrY3E`hA,Yzx 2phA,Yzx 2o rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://noGhPGshBv_57NP3RQ7O1Xct5iQ4YkfWj4m5PC33IxQ `'p׉ 7cassandra://Ynluy_RXKIYHARkgsdy1R9yIgXAgWUTeYk2ajOQlYXk͡ `׉ 7cassandra://ih2IWSnCx5sRZu7JcjNpErJJ_8H189zQw3dfDPuNQeQ8`hA1Yzx 2טUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://ji6eJ-ucQW_el1lOovSpgEF7trv1HW5jREScwPQg2xw`'p׉ 7cassandra://FbUT-JRlx3GVinDUXvswgzxMLelWepogJFnSwgJtfWE͛`׉ 7cassandra://SaYaS2MFeoHWr68AP02JfS0QEbIsmPis7JC_1nosZmU8`hA1Yzx 2׉EPage 12 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 6, 2025 Sachem student-athletes have high hopes at college signings By Tara Vocino S eniors signed up to play sports at division three colleges last Wednesday at a signing ceremony at Saugus High School, congratulated by their coaches, friends, teammates and family members. Senior Wilderson LaFortune with his friend, Samy Chahid during last Wednesday’s college signing at Saugus High School. Shown from left to right, are: proud assistant coach Mark Poto, head football Coach Steven Cummings, senior Connor Bloom, assistant football coach Greg Bluestein, and head baseball coach Michael MaAthletic Director Matthew Serino also acknowledged senior Layla Manderson, who will continue her soccer career at Bridgewater State University, but she wasn’t present for the ceremony. bee. Bloom plans to study physical education at Bridgewater State University to become an athletic director. Senior Wilderson LaFortune signed on to play football at UMass Dartmouth, joined by his proud math teacher Jenna Nuzzo. LaFortune plans to study finance, accounting and computer analytics. Shown from left to right, are: proud football players Larry Barrows, Christopher Mazin, Koby Jette, Pablo DeJesus, Joshua Sheehan, Pharaoh Brandenburg, Ryan Shea, Jordan Rodriguez, Nathaniel Santos, Ryan Moriera, Laita Haddad, Samy Chahid, Stephanie Coneau and Ryur Vargas. (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) ׉ 7cassandra://ih2IWSnCx5sRZu7JcjNpErJJ_8H189zQw3dfDPuNQeQ8`hA,Yzx 2q׉EzTHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 6, 2025 Page 13 Shown from left to right, are: proud father Ronaldo Felicio, mother Eunice Felicio, senior Anna Felicio, brother Arthur Felicio, with friends Dante Giusti, Sofia Correa and Jessica Scalene. Senior Anna Felicio signed onto wrestling at Western New England University, joined by her proud wrestling coach Wayne Moda. Shown from left to right, are: Assistant Football Coach Mark Poto, Head Football Coach Steve Cummings, Assistant Coach Greg Bluestein, and senior Wilderson LaFortune. Shown from left to right, are: Connor Bloom, Anna Felicio and Wilderson LaFortune. Shown from left to right, are: proud mother Jean Bloom, senior Connor Bloom, and father Christopher Bloom. Shown from left to right, are: senior Wilderson LaFortune, with his friends Ashley DeLeon, Gabriela Mund, Nevaeh Rogers, Valeria Gomez and math teacher Jenna Nuzzo. ׉ 7cassandra://SaYaS2MFeoHWr68AP02JfS0QEbIsmPis7JC_1nosZmU8`hA,Yzx 2rhA,Yzx 2q rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://eYVU-pOdj8ADB1nPPS4CnEv8xvJXUNgkSPxrNAA8Nac܋`'p׉ 7cassandra://PZ6W-QbJ8T1URqGb63CgnA_L5rIpPOHd8xqU1vQIv_8`׉ 7cassandra://69qWXIXqeYml_vLpyutafiugUjAgU4q5A_WHGgeaIMw9`hA1Yzx 2טUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://D3dkeF9IhvjPDbRfcoGlRWDY6FiVccNH_oVg00QVq9w'`'p׉ 7cassandra://RL33fQLAkq_YIMUGJo5PtXwHmjU7C-kPz8sSj9qdhLg͸`׉ 7cassandra://LraLpeGous-fUd1__F1i2phPddLeeK1ekVbab0Rpx-A3 `hA1Yzx 2נhA2Yzx 2 ̨9ׁHmailto:saugusdtc@gmail.comׁ ׁ ЈנhA2Yzx 2&d9ׁHhttp://comcast.netׁ ׁ ЈנhA2Yzx 2 p̑9ׁHhttp://RedCrossBlood.orgׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 6, 2025 Saugus Gardens in the Spring Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable By Laura Eisener B earded irises are still blooming all over town. They have been joined by Siberian irises (Iris sibirica), which lack the fuzzy “beards,” have narrower standards and falls, and narrower more grasslike foliage, and have fibrous roots rather than the starchy rhizomes that bearded irises have. Siberian irises don’t come in quite such a wide range of colors, but there are some dark purples, pinkish purple, whites and yellows. In Julia Aston’s garden near Saugus Center, there are three different varieties of bearded iris (Iris germanica hybrids) in bloom this week. She also has an unusual native groundcover known as green and gold peeking through the fence. Green and gold (Chrysogonum virginianum) is a wonderful native groundcover for part shade that should be used more often. It blooms profusely in the spring, stops when temperatures get hot, then will rebloom a bit less abundantly in the fall. If the summer is on the cool side, there may be random blossoms in July and August as well. There are not many sunny yellow flowers that we find growing in the shade, but this is one that stands out and deserves to be grown by more gardeners. Admittedly, it is not widely available so you may have to seek it out from sources that specialize in native plants. While its native range does not extend into New England (it is more often found from Pennsylvania extending several states to the south and west), it is quite hardy. In fact, it blooms later into the summer in our area than it does farther south where summer temperatures tend to be hotter. It is a member of the aster or composite family (Asteraceae), like sunflowers and daisies. This month’s moon is fittingly called the strawberry moon, and the full strawberry moon will occur this month on June 11. While we usually associate strawberries with June in our climate, May is national strawberry month and, oddly enough, National Strawberry Day fell on February 27. National Strawberry Shortcake Day is next Saturday, June 14, but you will have to wait until June 21 for the Strawberry Festival in Saugus, since it is traditionally held in this town on the third Saturday in June. A few weeks ago I wrote about two species of dogwood that are commonly planted in gardens around town. Today I wanted to mention another dogwood tree that is far less often grown in gardens, but this native species has charms all its own. Pagoda dogwood, also known as alternate-leaved dogwood (Cornus alternifolia, sometimes called Swida alternifolia), is the hardiest of the tree form dogwoods, growing in cold areas down to zone 3. It is considered a small tree, growing 25-30 feet tall and about the same in width. It normally grows as an understory tree, beneath the canopy of taller species in the forest. The flat clusters of flowSeveral yellow bearded iris varieties in my garden, including the dark yellow “Harvest of Memories,” in the center of the photograph (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) ers are creamy white, looking a bit more like the flowers of red twig dogwood than either of the more familiar ornamental tree species. Another thing it has in common with red twig dogwood is that the branches have a somewhat reddish color in fall and winter. Like flowering dogwood and kousa dogwood, it has an attractive red fall foliage color. They also have clusters of bluish-black berries that are attractive with the red foliage. They are often eaten by various birds. In parts of the Appalachians, the fallen fruits are favorites of ruffed grouse (Bonasa umbellus). Around here, they can serve as food for wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) and eastern gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis). The dogwood genus (CorBeautiful purple and white irises bloom along Julia Aston’s fence. (Photo courtesy of Julia Aston) The native groundcover called green and gold delivers yellow flowers in early summer. (Photo courtesy of Julia Aston) nus) encompasses several different trees and shrubs that some botanists feel are too different to fit all in one genus, so several new genus names have been suggested. Depending on who you may talk to, the genus may be split into as many as six different genera. While those with large bracts like flowering dogwood are considered by some to be part of the new genus Benthamidia, pagoda dogwood and other “blue fruited dogwoods” are sometimes assigned to the new genus Swida. However, most plant tags still use the genus Cornus. Editor’s Note: Laura Eisener is a Flowers of pagoda dogwood look quite different from the more familiar dogwood trees: our native flowering dogwood and the Asian kousa dogwood. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) A small pagoda dogwood blooms in my backyard. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) landscape design consultant who helps homeowners with landscape design, plant selection and placement of trees and shrubs, as well as perennials. She is a member of the Saugus Garden Club and offered to write a series of articles about “what’s blooming in town” shortly after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. She was inspired after seeing so many people taking up walking. ׉ 7cassandra://69qWXIXqeYml_vLpyutafiugUjAgU4q5A_WHGgeaIMw9`hA,Yzx 2s׉ETHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 6, 2025 Page 15 The Sounds of Saugus By Mark E. Vogler Good morning, Saugus I hope and pray that good weather prevails for tonight’s 154th Commencement Exercises for the Saugus High School Class of 2025. My personal preference is to be out there milling around on the playing field of Christie Serino Jr. Memorial Stadium, without a raincoat or umbrella. But even the rain can’t and shouldn’t spoil the evening for the 180 or so graduates who will be receiving their high school diplomas. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, there’s a nice auditorium inside the Saugus Middle High School where the show will go on, rain or shine. Best wishes to the students of this class and their families as they embark on a new phase of their lives. Of special note is that 72, or approximately 40 percent, of the young graduates will be first-generation college students, according to information provided by Saugus Public Schools. Hats off to the Saugus High Class of 2025 and the best of luck to each of you individually as you pursue your future endeavors and dreams. May you be good citizens and contribute to the betterment of your community, whether it be Saugus or any other place you call home. This week’s “SHOUT OUTs” We received one from Precinct 6 Town Meeting Member Jeanie Bartolo: “This ‘Shout Out’ goes to my Pen Pal Ariana Lemus and her best friend Tiffany Rivas. Ariana and I exchanged letters all school year and we finally got to meet in person on Tuesday at the Senior Center where they hosted a Pizza Party for all of us. Besides being pretty and sweet, Ariana is engaging and extremely intelligent for her age and is just a joy to know. My life is richer because I met her. Our future looks brighter with Ariana and Tiffany leading the way for us all, and I have no doubt they will reach all of life’s goals they set for themselves. The best Luck to both of you. Your Pen Pal forever!” We also received a special “Shout Out” from Mike SulliPantry The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry welcomes all neighbors facing food insecurity on Fridays from 9:30-11 a.m. at 50 Essex St. in the basement of Cliftondale Congregational Church. American Legion Blood Drive The American Legion Post 210 in Saugus will hold a blood drive from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 7, at 44 Taylor St. in Saugus. Please call 1-800-Red Cross (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter Saugus community to schedule an appointment. Firefighter Memorial Sunday The Saugus Firefighters Relief Association invites you to our Firefighter Memorial Sunday, Sunday, June 8, at 10 a.m. at the Public Safety Building on Hamilton Street. Friends and family are welcome to attend. Collation to follow in the third floor training room. Since May 8, when Cardinal Robert Prevost (bottom photo) became Pope Leo XIV – the World leader of the Catholic Church and the first American-born pope in history, Saugus Town Counsel John J. Vasapolli (top photo) has been deluged with comments about how he looks a lot like the new pope. “When I go over to the Hammersmith, they call me ‘Pope John.’ I’ve gotten emails from cousins, neighbors and classmates who tell me I look like Pope Leo. I even got a text from a judge,” Vasapolli told The Saugus Advocate this week. On his Facebook Page, John J. Vasapolli, he offered this June 1 post: “Thank you to all my friends, relatives, former classmates, neighbors and fellow attorneys for their kind comments on my resemblance to his holiness, but do I really look like the Pope?” By midweek, Vasapolli had received more than 150 responses from friends who thought so. (Courtesy screenshot of the John J. Vasapolli Facebook page) van of the Saugus Band and Chorus Parents Association: “We would appreciate it if your fine publication could share a few photos from the Saugus Middle School Band and Chorus Spring Concert, on May 21. Over 200 family members, friends, and school district staff attended the dynamic and crowd pleasing show.” Here’s an Editor’s “Shout Out” to Dave Arwine, President of the Saugus Band & Chorus Parents Association, who took the photos of the Saugus Middle School Band and Chorus Spring Concert and shared them with our readers. Here’s another Editor’s “Shout Out” to the members of the Saugus High School Class of 2025, who will walk across the stage tonight – either at the Christie Serino Jr. Memorial Stadium or inside the auditorium of the Saugus Middle High School – to receive their diplomas. And a special “Shout Out” to all of the parents, teachers, staff and others who contributed to the academic success of the 180 young people who will be celebrated at tonight’s 154th Commencement Exercises of Saugus High School. Want to “Shout Out” a fellow Saugonian? This is an opportunity for our paper’s readers to single out – in a brief mention – remarkable acts or achievements by Saugus residents or an act of kindness or a nice gesture. Just send an email (mvoge@ comcast.net) with a mention in the subject line of “An Extra Shout Out.” No more than a paragraph; anything longer might lend itself to a story and/ or a photo. Final weekend of Kindergarten Kickers Kindergarten Kickers, a youth soccer program in Saugus for children ages four to six (in kindergarten or entering kindergarten in the fall), will be finishing its spring season on Sunday (June 8) from 2:30-3:30 p.m. at Anna Parker Playground. “It was a big success in the fall and again this spring,” according to Liz Venezia. “We have 76 players (with a waitlist) across 6 teams with the help of 18 awesome coaches,” she said. Saugus United Parish Food Town Democrats meet June 11 The Saugus Democratic Town Committee invites you to join our next monthly meeting on Wednesday evening, June 11, at 7 p.m., on the 2nd floor of the Saugus Public Safety Building, 27 Hamilton Street, Saugus. If you have shared democratic values and want to resist the threats to our Constitution, please attend and be with fellow concerned citizens and take action. Any questions, contact saugusdtc@gmail.com (submitted by Lin Bell, SDTC Secretary). Strawberry Festival June 21 The Saugus Historical Society Strawberry Festival and the Saugus Garden Club annual plant sale will be held on Saturday, June 21. Strawberry shortcakes will be served at the American Legion Hall from 10-2, and the plant sale will be taking place on the lawn of the Roby School, facing Main Street, along with several craft vendors. THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 16 ׉ 7cassandra://LraLpeGous-fUd1__F1i2phPddLeeK1ekVbab0Rpx-A3 `hA,Yzx 2thA,Yzx 2s rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://E6GXFLbzr7E702g8y6oiBqLhcMuDA-shDZfzO6iRE4U֫`'p׉ 7cassandra://6Tw1DV8HDSBqIETDPsxHAES7V38sTuWHBHQ8A5b4Cu4`׉ 7cassandra://lFrZrl3DPtwzOKUbOUQJlip2qDzxiT46a5rr1QVxt3Q9:`hA2Yzx 2טUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://KuDJrDGscPOg9w5CRfATcL5UrFUXswOLlG93Lx1I1kk I`'p׉ 7cassandra://rYLOWo1acbv6TC3hnbBtbTjf2kBBtGmWhMCvTHcTipMͽ`׉ 7cassandra://5KTtxoAFcdN7VYT31bChKhbvO4CWFHdPWqGRRXTzXJ0/`hA2Yzx 2™נhA1Yzx 2̷̆9׉H#https://forms.gle/KEYAU8CUnAWhoxQEAGׁ ׁ rנhA1Yzx 2Z΁̱9׉H#https://forms.gle/KEYAU8CUnAWhoxQEAGׁ ׁ rנhA1Yzx 2Q̖9׉Hmailto:adevlin@aisle10.netGׁ ׁ rנhA1Yzx 2Q̠9׉Hmailto:Mkinsell@verizon.netGׁ ׁ rנhA1Yzx 2ρ̄9׉H$https://forms.gle/sM9KLBzskdJHKaUc6/Gׁ ׁ rנhA1Yzx 2?̡9׉H$https://forms.gle/sM9KLBzskdJHKaUc6/Gׁ ׁ rנhA3Yzx 2́ |̸ׁ9ׁH!mailto:bob@beaconhillrollcall.comׁ ׁ ЈנhA3Yzx 2ˁ zC9ׁHhttp://Tues.Maׁ ׁ ЈנhA2Yzx 2Ɂ@̸9ׁH!mailto:bob@beaconhillrollcall.comׁ ׁ Ј׉E Page 16 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 6, 2025 SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 15 SAVE Annual Meeting & Dinner June 25 The Saugus Action Volunteers for the Environment (SAVE) will hold its 52nd Annual Meeting & Dinner on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at the Grill House Restaurant at 817 Broadway / Route 1 South, Saugus (social hour begins at 6:30 p.m., dinner buffet to begin at approximately 7:00 p.m.). The Public is cordially invited and we hope you can join us for the Dinner Buffet consisting of Fresh Garden Salad, Grilled Mixed Tips, Baked Haddock, and Cheese Ravioli, Vegetable, Rolls and Butter, Dessert, and Coffee, Tea, or Soda. Joining us this year as guest speaker will be Andrea Lacroix. Andrea is affiliated with Beyond Plastics, raising awareness of plastic pollution and sharing plastic reduction initiatives. Tickets are $35 per person. Payment can be made by check or Venmo. Please make payment as soon as possible, but no later than June 13th either via mail to SAVE Treasurer, Mary Kinsell, 11 Sunnyside Avenue, Saugus, MA 01906, with a check payable to SAVE, Saugus, or, make your payment by Venmo to @ SAVE-org and complete your forms here: https://forms.gle/ KEYAU8CUnAWhoxQEA underway soon. “This vibrant program, now in its 20th year, is where student athletes from a wide range of ages come together to listen well, work hard, and have fun!” Coach T said in an email. Track Camp runners will be guided by Coach Tarantino, his coaches, counselors and alumni, as well as current middle and high school track team members. “Participants work on social and team building skills, as well as setting individual and team goals, all while learning the fundamentals and or the advanced techniques of this dynamic sport, track and field,” Coach T said. Here’s a summary of what inTHE SAUGUS MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND: Here’s a scene from the May 21 Saugus Middle School Band and Chorus Spring Concert. Hit numbers included “My Shot” from the musical Hamilton, “My Future” by Billie Eilish and “Ode to Joy” from Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. (Courtesy photo from Dave Arwine, President of the Saugus Band & Chorus Parents Association) You may also contact Ann at adevlin@aisle10.net or Mary at Mkinsell@verizon.net Please let us know if you are able to join us for a fun and informative evening, as well as a wonderful buffet dinner, as soon as possible. Free parking is available on site, and the facility is ADA accessible. A special call for art Here’s a special request from Tori Darnell, co-chair of the Saugus Cultural Council: I wanted to share with you J& • Reliable Mowing Service • Spring & Fall Cleanups • Mulch & Edging • Sod or Seed Lawns • Shrub Planting & Trimming • Water & Sewer Repairs Joe Pierotti, Jr. that the Saugus Cultural Council has partnered with Bike to the Sea to host an outdoor art show along the Northern Strand Trail on Saturday, July 19th. This special 1-day event is to celebrate local creativity and community spirit by showcasing artwork from residents of all ages who live along this community-connecting trail. I am reaching out to community groups and leaders along the trail; Everett, Malden, Revere, Saugus, and Lynn, for their support in promoting the S LANDSCAPE & MASONRY CO. Masonry - Asphalt • Brick or Block Steps • Brick or Block Walls • Concrete or Brick Paver Patios & Walkways • Brick Re-Pointing • Asphalt Paving www.JandSlandscape-masonry.com • Senior Discount • Free Estimates • Licensed & Insured 617-389-1490 Designing and Constructing Ideas that are “Grounds for Success” Landscaping call for artists for this community-connecting event. Artists are to submit artwork through this online form: https://forms.gle/ sM9KLBzskdJHKaUc6/. Artwork deadline entry is July 1st, 2025. Tori can be reached at 339440-1017 for more details. Saugus Sachems Summer Track Camp 2025 Coach Christopher Tarantino – also known affectionately as “Coach T” – has announced plans for his Summer Track Camp. Registration will get terested kids and their parents need to know. Who: five to 18 years old. Where: Belmonte Track. When: 6-8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. June 23-27 – final registration week/returning athlete training week June 30-July 4 – first formal July 19 – Summer Showdown in Cranston, R.I. July 23 – Wrap up Cost: $300 first year (was $250 if registered by June 1), $200 returning with uniform, $150 if three years or more in summer program; includes THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 18 ~ School Bus Drivers Wanted ~ 7D Licensed School Bus Drivers Malden Trans is looking for reliable drivers for the new school year. We provide ongoing training and support for licensing requirements. Applicant preferably lives local (Malden, Everett, Revere). Part-time positions available and based on AM & PM school hours....15-30 hours per week. Good driver history from Registry a MUST! If interested, please call David @ 781-322-9401. CDL SCHOOL BUS DRIVER WANTED Compensation: $28/hour School bus transportation company seeking active CDL drivers who live LOCALLY (Malden, Everett, Chelsea and immediate surrounding communities). - Applicant MUST have BOTH S and P endorsements as well as Massachusetts school bus certificate. Good driver history from Registry a MUST! - Part-time hours, BUT GUARANTEED 20-35 HOURS PER WEEK depending on experience. Contact David @ 781-322-9401. ׉ 7cassandra://lFrZrl3DPtwzOKUbOUQJlip2qDzxiT46a5rr1QVxt3Q9:`hA,Yzx 2{׉E.\THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 6, 2025 Page 17 duce stigma around mental health.” 4-DAY WORK WEEK PILOT PROIf you have any questions about this week’s report, e-mail us at bob@beaconhillrollcall.com or call us at (617) 720-1562. Beacon Hill Roll Call Volume 50 -Report No. 22 May 26-30, 2025 Copyright © 2025 Beacon Hill Roll Call. All Rights Reserved. By Bob Katzen T HE HOUSE AND SENATE: Beacon Hill Roll Call records local senators’ votes on the only roll call from the week of May 26-30. There were no roll calls in the House last week. $189.6 MILLION FOR CHILDCARE (S 2521) Senate 39-0, approved, House approved on a voice vote without a roll call, and Gov. Maura Healey signed into law a $189.6 fi scal 2025 supplemental budget that provides $95.6 million for the Department of Children and Families and Department of Transitional Assistance-related childcare, and another $94 million for income-eligible childcare. Supporters said the additional funding is necessary because of the diffi culty of advance funding, with precision, these childcare accounts that are “caseload driven.” “For our early education and care providers, without the authorization of such spending, our providers will not receive their scheduled June childcare fi nancial assistance that’s due them,” said Senate Ways and Means Chair Sen Mike Rodrigues (D-Westport). “Passing this supplemental budget ensures families across Massachusetts continue to receive the aff ordable, high-quality childcare they depend on,” said Sen. Dylan Fernandes (D-Falmouth). “Investing in early education and care isn’t just about helping children thrive — it’s about supporting working parents and building a stronger economy.” The Senate approved the bill as Rodrigues was showing visiting New Bedford fourth graders around the Senate chamber. “Just like that, we spent $189 million,” Rodrigues told them. (A “Yes” vote is for the $189.6 million for childcare.) Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes ALSO UP ON BEACON HILL CONTAGIOUS DISEASES AND POLICE, FIREFIGHTERS AND EMERGENCY PERSONNEL (H 2961) – The Public Service Committee held a hearing on a bill that would provide that police, fi re and EMT personnel making claims for death, disability or medical services from contagious diseases – who did not evidence any such condition at the time of entry into service – will be presumed to have acquired these contagious conditions in the line of duty.If it can be shown that non-service-connected risk factors accidents, or hazards caused such incapacity, the presumption can be rebutted. The list of diseases includes COVID-19, Hepatitis A, B or C, TB, HIV and other conditions found by the Commissioner of Public Health to have a statistically significant correlation with police, fi re or emergency medical service. The bill would expand current law which establishes that disability or death of public safety personnel resulting from certain conditions of cancer, as well as disease of the lungs/respiratory tract, is presumed to be caused in the line of duty. Co-sponsor Rep. Greg Schwartz (D-Newton) said that as a physician he understands the increased risk these public service workers face of contracting infectious diseases. “We ask our fi rst responders to engage with the public in situations that often carry increased risk of personal harm to the responder,” said Schwartz. “They perform invaluable, often lifesaving, service to strangers in the line of duty. It is the least we can do to acknowledge the risk to themselves that they take on to serve others in times of need, and we should support them when that service likely is the cause of disease, disability or death.” PTSD AND POLICE, FIREFIGHTERS AND EMERGENCY PERSONNEL (S 1821) – Another bill before the Public Service Committee would require that the disability or death of police, fi re or various other public safety personnel resulting from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is presumed to have been suff ered in the line of duty. “This legislation is needed to safeguard the health and well-being of our public safety personnel who are on the front lines daily to protect their community members,” said Sen. Sal DiDomenico (D-Everett). “Thanking these public servants is not enough. We need to put action behind our words and make real improvements by passing bills … which would support those dealing with PTSD and reGRAM (S 1330) - The Labor and Workforce Development Committee held a hearing on legislation that would create a voluntary 4-day work week pilot program in the Bay State. Participating employers would transition employees to a 4-day work week without any reduction in pay, status or benefi ts. Private employers that complete at least one year in the pilot program and meet reporting requirements, may qualify for state tax credits. Public employers can participate but are not eligible for tax credits. “Americans are overstressed and overworked,” said Sen. Dylan Fernandes (D-Falmouth). “The data shows that a 4-day work week creates a happier workforce, fuels company productivity and helps businesses attract top talent. This pilot program studies its efficacy in Massachusetts to determine whether the 4-day work week could benefi t commonwealth employees and businesses.” PAID PRENATAL LEAVE (S 1361) – Another proposal heard by the Labor and Workforce Development Committee would require employers to provide up to 24 hours of paid prenatal leave per year for pregnant individuals, and up to ten hours for their partners, to support attendance at medical appointments and related care. The proposal is modeled after a similar policy adopted in New York and aims to provide more fl exibility for working families to access critical prenatal care. “I sponsored this bill because expanding prenatal leave helps ensure healthier pregnancies and better birth outcomes,” said sponsor Sen. Jake Oliveira (D-Ludlow). “When we give families the time they need for early care, we strengthen not just individual health but also public health and workplace stability.” INSURANCE COMPANIES MUST NOTIFY DRIVERS (H 1200) – The Financial Services Committee held a hearing on legislation that would require insurance companies to provide a written notification to customers when the company charges a fee to process an electronic payment transaction for an automobile insurance policy. “I filed this bill after hearing from a constituent who was being charged by their insurance company for making online payments and had never been notifi ed that they would be subject to these fees,” said sponsor GOP Minority Leader Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “This is a pro-consumer bill that will help to ensure that insurance companies provide full disclosure to their policyholders on any additional fees they may assess for conducting these types of transactions.” EXPIRED INSPECTION STICKERS (H 1195) – Another measure before the Financial Services Committee would remove an expired inspection sticker violation from being a moving violation, which add points to your driver’s record and sometimes surcharges, and instead make it a non-moving violation, with no points or surcharge. “I fi led this consumer-oriented bill to correct, what I feel, is an unfair insurance surcharge assessed to Massachusetts drivers,” said sponsor Rep. Steve Howitt (R-Seekonk). FINANCIAL AID FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS - The Healey Administration is urging all students and families, particularly low-income families, to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2025-2026 college academic year. The federal form is required for students to be eligible for certain federal and state fi nancial aid, including free community college and opportunities to attend the state’s public four-year universities without paying tuition and fees. “Earlier this year, we visited high schools across Massachusetts for our Higher Education Financial Aid Road Show,” said Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. “The students we spoke with expressed overwhelming interest in going to college, but many said they were unaware of the historic levels of available state fi nancial aid. Massachusetts has nearly $400 million in fi nancial aid and we want students and families to know the fi rst step to accessing this money is to complete the FAFSA.” “Too many students leave money on the table by not completing the FAFSA, and the implications of that are signifi cant,” said Commissioner of Higher Education Noe Ortega. “Accessing fi nancial aid has an impact on whether a student attends the institution of their choice or attends college at all. College access, and the upward mobility that comes from a college degree, all start with applying for fi nancial aid.” Students and families can learn more about FAFSA by visiting Mass. Gov/FinancialAid which has links to free FAFSA. QUOTABLE QUOTES – LET THE 2026 RACE FOR GOVERNOR BEGIN “Massachusetts means business. We need to support our entrepreneurs and companies, cut their costs and make it easier to do business in our state. That’s what we are doing by cutting red tape, simplifying regulations and saving thousands of businesses and business owners signifi cant time and money so they can focus on what matters most – growing jobs and contributing to our economy.” ---Gov. Maura Healey announcing that she is eliminating a series of regulations for the purpose of saving businesses and business owners time and money. “Gov. Maura Healey has spent her days in the Corner Offi ce devastating Massachusetts’ business environment and making life unaffordable for working people through her support for increased regulations, fees and taxes. As a result, Massachusetts is bleeding businesses, private sector jobs and workers, and is now dead last in the country in job growth.” ---Brian Shortsleeve, candidate for the Republican nomination for governor. “Gov. Healey’s so-called regulatory reform is nothing more than political theater. Any small business owner can see right through this. These symbolic tweaks won’t even begin to fi x the hostile business climate, sky-high taxes, and runaway spending that are making Massachusetts unaffordable and unattractive to employers.” ---Mike Kennealy, candidate for Republican nomination for governor. 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 fi led. They note that the infrequency and brief length of sessions are misguided and lead to irresponsible late-night sessions and a mad rush to act on dozens of bills in the days immediately preceding the end of an annual session. During the week of May 26-30, the House met for a total of four hours and 11 minutes while the Senate met for a total of three hours and 22 minutes. Mon. May 26No House session. No Senate session. Tues.May 27House11:01 a.m. to1:33 p.m. Senate 11:32 a.m. to1:30 p.m. Wed. May 28No House session. No Senate session. Thurs. May 29House11:01 a.m. to 12:40 p.m. Senate 11:20 a.m. to 12:44 p.m. Fri. May 30No House session. No Senate session. Bob Katzen welcomes feedback at bob@beaconhillrollcall.com Bob founded Beacon Hill Roll Call in 1975 and was inducted into the New England Newspaper and Press Association (NENPA) Hall of Fame in 2019. ׉ 7cassandra://5KTtxoAFcdN7VYT31bChKhbvO4CWFHdPWqGRRXTzXJ0/`hA,Yzx 2|hA,Yzx 2{ rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://Pml4TeUE6GBmzeih_bmSSYkqAj80U_FW9UbDuutXS-I64`'p׉ 7cassandra://CNpVxLPi2T5SOMAsLt7-y-vwGg7FemaAifktBm19f5c;'`׉ 7cassandra://gvERDgYG0UNUbdGudIaWkbWwWwAH02O63I6doYZWyZU5`hA3Yzx 2טUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://8e3gWGBf82IL7cc0qc4uBKg2LiLEKx9sbe_slL5RwkA [>`'p׉ 7cassandra://S6cgkdkF43PTfo6CsmaTXwMLFOlDerpFSTfKtXosRx8ͼ`׉ 7cassandra://TEWB-EuzSwTYcq74lgsCbIBldGFcBe4MIsouPz5TJWQ2L`hA3Yzx 2͒נhA4Yzx 2ҁ ̌9ׁHhttp://SavvySenior.orgׁ ׁ ЈנhA3Yzx 2с̀9ׁHhttps://www.saugus-ma.gov/ׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 18 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 6, 2025 SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 16 pasta dinner, t-shirt, uniform and entry into Summer Showdown. For any questions, further information or to register, please contact Coach Christopher Tarantino (Coach T) at 781854-6778 or christophertarantino24@gmail.com A “Zip Trip” stop in Saugus on June 27 Mark Friday, June 27, on your calendar if you happen to have some free time that morning. Boston 25 is hosting a Zip Trip in Saugus right outside Saugus Town Hall. Jessica Howard DeThomas, the Senior Morning Producer for the television station, tells me they will spend a few hours that day interviewing Saugus folks about what makes the town special. Stay tuned for more information as that day approaches. Narcan presentation July 14 at Senior Center The Saugus Everett Elks Drug Awareness Committee will hold a Narcan Presentation at the Saugus Senior Center (466 Central St. in Saugus) on Monday, July 14, at 10 a.m. This is a free hour-long presentation. Become educated on how to save lives from an accidental overdose. Light refreshments will be served. Call the Senior Center at 781-231-4178 to reserve your seat. Walk-ins are welcome. Visitor Services available at Saugus Iron Works The Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site has begun its “visitors’ services,” marking the opening of restrooms and the museum. This is the expected schedule of tours for the summer: Wednesday–Sunday at 11 a.m., house tours, 1/2 hour; Wednesday–Sunday at 2 p.m., industrial site tours, which will include waterwheel demonstrations when staffing permits. On Fridays and Saturdays only, there will also be a 10 a.m. waterwheel demonstration. Visitors’ services will end on Oct. 31. Conversation Circle at the Saugus Public Library Would you like to practice speaking English in a comfortable and supportive environment? Intended for intermediate and advanced-level speakers of English to practice speaking in an informal setting, the Conversation Circle promotes speaking and listening in English. It improves fluency and confidence. This group will meet from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Brooks Room on the second and fourth Tuesday evenings of June 2025: Tuesday, June 10, Tuesday, June 24. If there is enough interest, additional dates will be scheduled. There is no cost for this program. Walk-ins are welcome. Buy-A-Brick for a veteran The Saugus War Monument Committee, once again, is sponsoring the Buy-A-Brick Program to honor all those who have served their country. If you would like to purchase one in the name of someone who is presently serving or has served, in the memory of a loved one, or just someone from your family, school, etc., the general pricing is $100 for a 4” x 8” brick (three lines) or $200 for a 8” x 8” brick (five lines). Each line has a maximum of 15 characters. The improvement and upkeep of the monument on the corner of Winter and Central Streets rely on the generosity of donors through fundraising. The brick application must be in by September 10 to ensure the bricks will be ready THE SAUGUS MIDDLE SCHOOL CHORUS: Here’s another scene from the May 21 Saugus Middle School Band and Chorus Spring Concert. More than 200 family members, friends and school district staff attended this dynamic and crowd-pleasing show. (Courtesy photo from Dave Arwine, President of the Saugus Band & Chorus Parents Association) for Veterans Day. Please contact Corinne Riley at 781-2317995 for more information and applications. C.H.a.R.M. Center is open The Town of Saugus Solid Waste/Recycling Department announced that the Center for Hard to Recycle Materials (C.H.a.R.M.) has opened for the season, with normal operational hours of Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The C.H.a.R.M. Center is located at 515 Main St., Saugus, behind the Saugus Department of Public Works. Residents are welcome to use the C.H.a.R.M. Center for their recycling needs. Saugus was the first municipality in Massachusetts to open a C.H.a.R.M. Center. The C.H.a.R.M. Center accepts the following items at no cost to residents: · Bottles and cans · Paper and cardboard · Scrap metal · Shoes, clothes and other textiles · Fluorescent light bulbs and batteries (button and rechargeable) Residents are also permitted the free disposal of three TVs or computers/CRT monitors per household each year at the C.H.a.R.M. Center. Residents can obtain new stickers for this year free of charge when visiting the C.H.a.R.M. Center. By purchasing a $25 sticker that is valid for the entirety of the season, resiTHE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 19 - LEGAL NOTICE - COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS THE TRIAL COURT PROBATE AND FAMILY COURT Essex Division Docket No. ES25P0856EA Estate of: ANGELO BUONOPANE Date of Death: FEBRUARY 01, 2025 INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE To all persons interested in the above captioned estate, by Petition of Petitioner Marie Buonopane of Saugus, MA Marie Buonopane of Saugus, MA has been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve without surety on the bond. The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court. Inventory and accounts are not required to be filed with the Court, but interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the Court to institute formal proceedings and to obtain orders terminating or restricting the powers of Personal Representatives appointed under informal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner. June 6, 2025 ׉ 7cassandra://gvERDgYG0UNUbdGudIaWkbWwWwAH02O63I6doYZWyZU5`hA,Yzx 2}׉E!