׉?4ׁB!בCטUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://uX4cLhhYJ7I1MeMG6dcUDEhd5PydL6SAmj3Mzpe00DA}`'p׉ 7cassandra://NNiXvkQH5KdU9hn4e86G7QhKNeRRM4_Fcvy4o5alwDUͳ`׉ 7cassandra://RRquS-heHUbBohZK1N1b6Gcpi0qr0PKxGeEiO_bIgI8:`h6b Sנh6b W сb9ׁHhttp://angelosoil.comׁ ׁ Јנh6b V19ׁHhttp://www.advocatenews.netׁ ׁ Ј׈Eh4b 0׉ESAUGUS D Vol. 27, No.35 Have a Safe & Happy Labor Day Weekend! OCAT CAT BACK TO SCHOOL M NEW TO THE DISTRICT: Fernanda Neves (right) and her son, second grader Lucas, 7, were happy to be at Belmonte S.T.E.A.M. Academy on Wednesday morning for the start of a new school year. They recently moved to Saugus from Malden. Please see inside for the story and more photos. (Saugus Advocate Photo by Tara Vocino) TE E -FREE- www.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday 781-233-4446 Friday, August 29, 2025 The orange dinosaur owner vs. the town Developer of Essex Landing fi les a $25 million federal lawsuit against the Town of Saugus and town manager By Mark E. Vogler ichael Barsamian likes to be known as the developer who keeps the big orange dinosaur on Route 1 alive. When he and TB Holdings acquired the Route 1 property for their $120 million development known as Essex Landing, the iconic 20-foot-tall dinosaur became a centerpiece of that project. The Route 1 Mini Golf & Batting Cages where the dinosaur was a fi xture for more than half a century is long-gone. The dinosaur lives on, anchored in a more visible location for the passing Route 1 traffi c to see. But last week, the dinosaur’s owners expressed their anger with the way their development has been treated by fi ling a $25 million federal lawsuit against the town and its town manager, Scott C. Crabtree. TB Holdings seeks damages, all attorneys’ fees, expert fees, costs and other expenses incurred by TB Holdings in addition to an award of punitive ORANGE DINOSAUR | SEE PAGE 2 Mid-grade Regular 2.87 3.35 3.45 $3.47 Over 47 Years of Excellence! 1978 - 2025 ULS Full Service $2.99 Order online at angelosoil.com FLEET CARD Check Out Our LOW PRICES! ׉ 7cassandra://RRquS-heHUbBohZK1N1b6Gcpi0qr0PKxGeEiO_bIgI8:`h4b 1h4b 0 rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://V8D-Tt8J7Hu2DuWj6GPaO1iGVsMKX3mi7WK51W-6oaU7`'p׉ 7cassandra://x96zA97mZQx0yexol7rDzmntJnIKnngbT1RmXjdm2No͵+`׉ 7cassandra://HOhXIrjlobGmvsO70MXhgy0swbao8VCUm4YJG7Wu8W46`h6b XטUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://k6fbmFVcsSJ4WP2pcnymk8XuKl-PqmDrjEdMIelFw84`'p׉ 7cassandra://ZIUCeeaRbWpdIqVkUqGeAqXFaZ7Y_p4lFh5wmTxiUMEͦ`׉ 7cassandra://hjMud19ElREJtlISSs8EJOt6wrMN3FdOxeQfMegwlec3`h7b Yנh7b a M 9ׁHhttp://www.tndinc.orgׁ ׁ Јנh7b `/U 9ׁHhttp://www.tndinc.orgׁ ׁ Јנh7b _m9ׁHmailto:info@advocatenews.netׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 2 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, AUGUST 29, 2025 ORANGE DINOSAUR | FROM PAGE 1 damages against Crabtree individually. The court complaint also alleged that the town and Crabtree have violated the state Public Records Law and should be fined $5,000. “This case is about a local real estate developer, TB Holdings, LLC, who has been subjected to arbitrary and discriminatory treatment by the Town of Saugus,” lawyers for Barsamian and TB Holdings alleged in a 27page complaint filed last week in U.S. District Court in Boston. “Much of this treatment has been driven by the Town Manager for the Town of Saugus, Scott Crabtree, who exercises unfettered discretion and unchecked power over the Town. Crabtree and the Town’s acLawrence 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 tions include a $200,000.00 payment required by Crabtree that bore no relation, nexus, or proportionality to the subject development plans. As explained below, Crabtree and the Town are jointly liable for egregious constitutional violations, and this Court should award TB Holdings damages and just relief,” the complaint continued. Farther on in the complaint, TB Holdings, LLC alleged the defendants’ conduct “is consistent and exemplary of unconstitutional municipal customs or practices, such as the coercion and extortion of developers and the use of unlawful procedures, which is employed by decision-making officials in the Town who have knowledge of the customs and practices and do nothing to end the practice, these customs or practices are attributable to the Town of Saugus, and these customs and practices are the cause of and the moving force behind the Defendants’ deprivation of TB Holdings’ constitutional rights.” The Saugus Advocate reached out to Crabtree for comment regarding the lawsuit, which was officially filed on Aug. 21. Crabtree said he was unaware that a lawsuit had been filed against the town and him, adding that nobody at Town Hall had been served with a summons. “I really can’t AN ANGRY DINOSAUR OWNER: Developer Michael Barsamian, seen shaking hands with his friend, said he shares a special bond with the Town of Saugus by keeping this old Route 1 landmark in a special spot at Essex Landing. But he doesn’t like the way the town has treated him lately, prompting him to file a federal lawsuit last week. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) comment on something I haven’t seen,” he said in a brief telephone interview. A $200,000 “grant” Much of the complaint focuses on a $200,000 “grant,” which TB Holdings learned it would have to pay to the town before the company could get a meeting with Town Manager Crabtree, according to the lawsuit. “Beginning in 2021 and into 2022, TB Holdings planned the development of such Undeveloped Units, which included a proposed sale of Unit 5 (and later Unit 4) to Wingate Living (“Wingate”) to be used as an assisted living facility, while retaining Unit 6 for the construction of an apartment building on that Unit,” the complaint noted. Part of this planning involved TB Holdings negotiating a purchase and sales agreement with Wingate in January of 2022. During the course of negotiations with Wingate, TB Holdings’ legal counsel sought a meeting with town officials, including Town Manager Crabtree, to discuss the proposed assisted living facility (including the independent living units). Several requests for a meeting went unanswered. ORANGE DINOSAUR | SEE PAGE 6 ׉ 7cassandra://HOhXIrjlobGmvsO70MXhgy0swbao8VCUm4YJG7Wu8W46`h4b 2׉ETHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, AUGUST 29, 2025 Page 3 Shining Lights of Everyday People “Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love”—Mother Teresa the Saugus United Parish Food Pantry, which is under the leadership of Pastor Joe Hoyle at Cliftondale Congregational Church. Often her duties are checking if all products are within expiration dates. Mary Lou enjoyed being able to raise her own three children; she made sure her work came second, often wearing many hats throughout their childhood to ensure she was home for them. She spent time as an EMT in emergency rooms in hospitals, worked in the old Saugus General Hospital as a medical secretary and enjoyed working at Sears. Mary Lou’s a multitalented, gentle and sensitive lady full of wisdom. “If a door closes, another one opens,” Mary Lou said. Mary Lou fashions her life around her favorite words of wisdom: “Trust in God.” 50 A rare opportunity for first-time homebuyers to own an affordable condo in Malden! o own an affordable Affordable Homes for Sale in Malden! omes alden!!n!ldeenalden omes alden! ome Mary Lou Graham (Courtesy of “The Sketch Artist”) By Joanie Allbee M ary Lou Graham is often found helping others. She enjoys doing what she can for the community and lets her hands show the action. She volunteers at the Saugus Public Library, working on the “Pick List.” She explains enthusiastically that the Pick List is the books that readers ask for through the North of Boston Library Exchange (NOBLE) program that Saugus library has in stock, which other libraries may borrow through. She then gets these books ready to be shipped out. Mary Lou is an offi cer with the American Legion Post 210 Women’s Auxiliary. Louise, her Scan QR to apply daughter, is the President. Together, they often work on setting up for meetings and functions together. Some of the functions are hosting a bingo game at the Veterans Home at Chelsea, purchasing and wrapping Christmas presents to distribute, fundraising dinners, entertainment and meetings. Mary Lou warmly hosts the yearly Women’s Auxiliary Cookouts at her home and yard with a spacious gazebo. She fondly looks forward to hosting the Saugus Nazarene’s annual church cookout, her church family. “It’s nice for people to come over to my home to relax, enjoy and get to know each other better,” Mary Lou said. She helps on Friday’s with For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 781-233-4446 or info@advocatenews.net 272 Cross Street LLC and Winn Management do not discriminate because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, handicap, disability, national origin, genetic information, ancestry, children, familial status, marital status or public assistance recipiency in the sale or transfer of apartment units, buildings, and related facilities, including land that they own or control. Visit Our Website for more info www.tndinc.org Equal Housing Opportunity APPLY ONLINE OR IN PERSON How to apply www.tndinc.org 4 Gerrish Ave Rear, Chelsea, MA 02150 Applications also available by mail or email. WHO CAN APPLY: First-Time Homebuyers Meet income & asset limits (see AMI chart) Assets must be under $75K for 80% AMI households. Assets must be under $150K for 100% AMI households. Restrictions Apply – Units have resale and use restrictions Questions or Accommodations? Call Winn Management: 617-884-0692 | TTY: 800-439-2370 CHECK INCOME LIMITS & PRICES BY HOUSEHOLD SIZE Please note: Deadline: Must be postmarked by October 2, 2025 mes 5 Newly Built Affordable Condos rdable Condos AVAILABLE BY LOTTERY pply APPLICATION PERIOD: Dates July 7, 2025 - October 2, 2025 INFO SESSIONS Where: Malden City Hall August 5, 2025 6PM September 4, 2025 6PM Lottery Date Thursday, October 16, 2025 (Attendance not required) ׉ 7cassandra://hjMud19ElREJtlISSs8EJOt6wrMN3FdOxeQfMegwlec3`h4b 3h4b 2 rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://ikyYCjAInVmRJPG6JFxPbTJIGRL3mqkrY776ByLP6JEF`'p׉ 7cassandra://62vZcDxvX1Q0NYTM_3cSS8RxtOVQgL0HKA0nNENJpLM `׉ 7cassandra://FgwJNJrECASTB8HlOIvfJo5hnYsr6kKmBA5Jch_2rPI=`h8b bטUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://xxwytuVgAMAKVGBHa2sUXbyr_ytq71s-9YIxtS4R_S4`'p׉ 7cassandra://g4XM3g4SI0ijKqNopBhVDi6PdivUGDpmee0DlxKVdlUͲ`׉ 7cassandra://jOl3MgxoeNce9NtMGBwE35erb_SkuHhePbUNuCGxA3o6j`h8b cנh7b \#̌9׉H http://www.broadwaylicensing.comGׁ ׁ rנh7b ]@8d9׉H http://www.broadwaylicensing.comGׁ ׁ rנh8b jY9ׁHhttp://WWW.SABATINO-INS.COMׁ ׁ Ј׉E Page 4 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, AUGUST 29, 2025 A Halloween Attraction Theatre Company of Saugus presents ‘ride the Cyclone’; tickets are on sale for 11 fall performances T ickets are now on sale for “Ride the Cyclone”, the Halloween season show presented by the Theatre Company of Saugus (TCS). It’s a quirky, heart-squeezing musical where six choir kids meet a mysterious fortune teller after a rollercoaster mishap … and each gets one last shot to tell their story and sing about it. It’s hilarious, weird and beautifully uplifting, like a carnival ride for your feelings. There are 11 performances on three weekends: October 17-18-19, October 24-2526 and October 31 & Novem8 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! ber 1-2, 2025. Friday and Saturday evenings at 8 p.m., Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. and Saturday matinees at 2 p.m. on October 25 & November 1. “Ride the Cyclone” is a Canadian musical with music and lyrics written by Jacob Richmond and Brooke Maxwell, and book by Jacob Richmond. It follows the spirits of six teenagers from the St. Cassian Chamber Choir who tragically died in a rollercoaster accident. In limbo, they encounter a mechanical fortune teller who invites each of them to share their story in hopes of winning a chance to return to life. The narrative explores themes of death, grief and the meaning of life as each character reveals their unique perspective and experiences. The musical is a funny and moving look at what makes life worth living. 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Chelsea Callahan is the assistant stage manager. “Ride the Cyclone” is produced by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing (www.broadwaylicensing.com). TCS is pleased to announce the cast: · The Amazing Karnak … to be revealed … · Ocean O’Connell Rosenberg … Tomiko Nicholson · Mischa Bachinski … Mark Damon · Noel Gruber … Link Bowen · Ricky Potts … Arth Joshi · Constance Blackwood … Amanda Raponi · Jane Doe … Kristen Sehn The venue is the TCS home at American Legion Post 210, which is located at 44 Taylor St. in Saugus, Mass. Summer is Here! ׉ 7cassandra://FgwJNJrECASTB8HlOIvfJo5hnYsr6kKmBA5Jch_2rPI=`h4b 6׉E THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, AUGUST 29, 2025 Page 5 Back to School By Mark E. Vogler S augus Public Schools began its 2025-26 academic year with a new policy this week: Middle and High School students won’t be able to ride the bus to and from the school. “Bus service will only be available to students who are required to ride by law,” Saugus Public Schools Supt. Michael Hashem said. “This means that only students in grades K to 6, that live more than 2 miles from the school they attend will be allowed to ride,” he said. The policy change had some parents wondering why they learned about the new policy on the week that Saugus Middle-High School students can’t ride the bus “One of these adjustschool begins. But the superintendent said adequate notice was given before the start of the school year. “The email messaging went out on July 23rd and again in a newsletter on August 14th,” Hashem said. Cancellation of the bus service for Middle-High School students was based on an economic decision, according to Hashem. “In June, as we do each year, the Saugus Public Schools adjusted our FY26 budget to reflect the actual funding we received. To protect essential educational services, the district, building administrators, and the Saugus School Committee made several budget adjustments,” Hashem said. ments was to fund only the mandated transportation requirements. This means that only students who qualify under state guidelines will receive bus transportation. Families of students who do not meet these requirements will need to make alternate transportation arrangements. A transportation message was sent out to the families on July 23, 2025, informing them,” he said. “At this time, all students who qualify for transportation are being provided service. Because it is uncertain whether additional seats will become available at any point, we will not be maintaining a waiting list at this time.” No information was available on the number of MidGerry 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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PHONE: (617) 387-7466 FAX: (617) 381-9186 Visit us online at: WWW.SABATINO-INS.COM dle-High School students who used school bus transportation last year. ׉ 7cassandra://jOl3MgxoeNce9NtMGBwE35erb_SkuHhePbUNuCGxA3o6j`h4b 7h4b 6 rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://jZUQRskwd3j4nyb72d4o7g-FXsiy5HEPKE4Q2YuiOmE%3`'p׉ 7cassandra://oeFWP11GgLbPK1V9BSfk4UO3eUQV4jgefMbuvHxLz6Iͣn`׉ 7cassandra://b2GYBA129lgiZopWFejSbJuI71FG9bKiDMqz5P3JeGo1`h8b kטUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://Zf4tLUgHW8j_THR14snqTaWRBVHCZNZiz9Lenpkc-DM>`'p׉ 7cassandra://dBtrD3ez-X_CANLQ_qwovkJSCp-MooLHjauMkibdzr4ͨR`׉ 7cassandra://O2xu_YXmMl0D3_U9tCAU5FlrWZQUkIQIodS4WdxE7AI4K`h9b lנh9b s9ׁHhttp://www.cajuncorner916.comׁ ׁ Јנh9b r59ׁHmailto:SHEILAROSANIO@GMAIL.COMׁ ׁ Јנh9b qb9ׁHhttp://WINWASTESAUGUS.COMׁ ׁ Ј׉E Page 6 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, AUGUST 29, 2025 (Editor’s Note: Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree’s Offi ce recently issued the following Public Advisory for Upcoming Pump Station Improvement Projects.) Making Saugus better T Town will begin work soon on several pump station improvement projects own Manager Scott Crabtree is pleased to announce work will begin soon to rehabilitate and upgrade several pump stations as part of the town’s ongoing eff orts to improve public works infrastructure. The Town of Saugus is notifying residents of pump station improvement projects that will take place at the following locations: • Lincoln Avenue pump station • Lamplighters Way pump If We Happen To Meet By Accident ... You’ll Be Glad You Found Us! There is a difference between the rest and the BEST! Celebrating 46 Years In Business! TONY’S AUTO BODY Call or Visit 781-321-0032 34 Sharon Street Malden, MA 02148 TONYSAUTOBODYLLC.COM COME VISIT OUR STATE OF THE ART BODY SHOP • Computerized Paint Matching (State of the Art Spray Booth) • Computerized Frame Machines • P.P.G. Refinishing System • R134 + 1234yf A/C Machines Fully Insured -RS2415 Insurance Company Approval ALL OUR WORK IS GUARANTEED! TONY BARTOLO Owner 46 Years Let Us Handle Your Next Insurance Claim. Go With the BEST It Doesn’t Get BETTER! RENTAL CARS Available An iconic Saugus landmark (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) station • Lynnhurst School pump station • Route 1 pump station Construction will be performed by C. Naughton Corporation, with Weston & Sampson Engineering providing oversight. Work is estimated to begin the week of Aug. 25, 2025 and is expected to be completed by Nov. 15, 2025. The Lamplighters Way project is expected to begin the last week of August and continue to early September. A section of Lamplighters Way will need to be restricted to one lane as pipe is being installed. For the Lynnhurst School project, which is expected to start in mid-September and to go into mid-October, traffi c is not expected to be disturbed for extended periods of time on Walnut Street or Elm Street. Police details will be coordinated as needed. All of the work for the Lincoln Avenue pump station and Route 1 pump station projects will occur on their existing parcels. “These important master plan infrastructure improvements would not be possible without the dedication and leadership of the Saugus Board of Selectmen, the Finance Committee and Town Meeting. I want to extend my sincere gratitude for their continued support and vision, which allow us to make critical investments that will strengthen our community and serve the residents of Saugus for generations to come,” said Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree. The Town of Saugus thanks residents in advance for their patience and cooperation while these important infrastructure improvements are completed. Residents with questions are encouraged to contact the Saugus Department of Public Works at 781-2314143. ORANGE DINOSAUR | FROM PAGE 2 “Finally, Crabtree responded and stated that TB Holdings was supposed to provide a ‘grant’ to the Town. Through verbal communications, which took place over the course of a few weeks, Crabtree told [TB Holdings] Counsel that he would not speak to him about TB Holdings’ project until he received a $200,000.00 payment to the Town as a ‘grant’ to the Town of Saugus Parks and Recreation,” the lawsuit noted. “Despite the fact that TB Holdings was under absolutely no obligation, either by ORANGE DINOSAUR | SEE PAGE 7 ׉ 7cassandra://b2GYBA129lgiZopWFejSbJuI71FG9bKiDMqz5P3JeGo1`h4b 8׉E 7THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, AUGUST 29, 2025 Page 7 This weekend and throughout the year, we celebrate all those who labor to make our community better. ORANGE DINOSAUR | FROM PAGE 6 rule, regulation, or condition to any approval, to make a $200,000.00 grant to the Town, TB Holdings realized it had no choice but to proceed along this course of action provided by Crabtree, as it had invested, at that time, approximately $18 million in the project,” the complaint continued. “After consulting with TB Holdings, Counsel contacted Crabtree and inquired about whether a $100,000.00 grant would be suffi cient, especially considering the fact that TB Holdings had already expended approximately $1.6 million in off site improvements to the Town’s utilities, such as water 100 Salem Turnpike, Saugus, MA 01906 WINWASTESAUGUS.COM ments.” In a May 27, 2022, meeting with Crabtree at Town Hall, Barsamian paid Crabtree the $200,000 check. A deposit ticket produced by the Town later described the $200,000 payment as a “donation.” “During the Meeting, Crabtree pressed about TB Holdings’ plans for developing the Undeveloped Units and completing the development of the Property,” according to the complaint. “Barsamian explained that the plans involved constructing a residential apartment building with approximately 45 units at 15 Collins (‘Unit 6’), and to also construct an assisted living facility with independent living units in collaboraAn artist rendering of Essex Landing (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) and sewer,” the lawsuit noted. “Crabtree responded to the inquiry about a $100,000.00 grant with disapproval, indi- cating that the grant had to be $200,000.00, and that it could not be made in multiple paySHEILA ROSANIO SCHOOL OF DANCE & GYMNASTICS CLASSES START SEPT. 8TH ! 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Award-winning Everett High School Marching Band among performers I t’s that time of year again when the streets will come alive for the 100th Annual Grand Italian Feast of Saints Cosmas and Damian on September 4, 5, 6 & 7 on Warren, Cambridge and Porter Streets in East Cambridge. The four-day fun family event features a wide variety of sweet and savory food, a beer garden, amusement rides, games, parades and music that spans decades of dance, pop and rock. Festivities begin on Thursday, September 4, at 6:00 p.m. when Saints Cosmas and Damian take part in a procession from their permanent home at 17 Porter St. in East Cambridge to the outdoor chapel overlooking the festival concourse on Warren and Porter Streets. At 7:00 p.m., a special healing service with the holy relics of Saints Cosmas and Damian will take place at the outdoor chapel. The Thursday night entertainment will begin at 6:00 p.m. with a performance by local favorite WildFire Band followed by the legendary Grammy award winner Gloria Gaynor singing her mega hits: “I Will Survive,” “Never Can Say Goodbye,” “Reach Out (I’ll Be There),” “I Am What I Am” and more. Gaynor will make sure everyone is dancing in the streets! On Friday night the entertainment begins at 6:00 p.m., and Samantha Rae takes the stage with her band. After her aromas of pizza, fried dough, Italian sausages, peppers, zeppole and much more permeate the air around Cambridge, Porter, and Warren Streets, along with continuous entertainment, including Dom Catino’s Sounds of Sinatra show, Boston’ Own Trifecta, and Sea Breeze with Stephen Savio. At 6:30 p.m. S aints Cos - mas and Damian — accompanied by members of the Society, the North End Marching Band, the award-winning Everett High School Marching Band and the faithful — process from their permanent home at 17 Porter St. to the outdoor chapel. Gloria Gaynor performance the Pop2000 Tour makes its stop at the Feast with Chris Kirkpatrick of NSYNC, O-Town, Ryan Cabrera and LFO. Don’t miss this exciting and high-energy show by some of the biggest recording artists of the 2000s. They will not disappoint! On Saturday the festivities begin at 1:00 p.m. as the savory Beginning at 8:00 p.m. Saturday night on the Cambridge Street Stage, the 1990s hit machine and Grammy Award winJoey McIntyre ner All-4-One perform their many hits, including their #1 Billboard chart sensation “I Swear” and “I Can Love You Like That”! They are followed by international recording sensation Joey McIntyre from New Kids On The Block. He will be singing NKOTB hits and his own songs from his Freedom Tour. Don’t miss “Please Don’t Go Girl,” “Freedom,” “Own This Town” and much more. The grand finale of the Feast on Sunday begins at 10:30 a.m. with an outdoor Mass in honor of the Healing Saints Cosmas and Damian on the Warren Street Stage. At 1:00 p.m. the feast opens. At 1:30 p.m. “The Grand Procession with Saints Cosmas and Damian, marching bands, floats, and trolleys begins to wind through the streets of East Cambridge and Somerville” as it has for 100 years. Don’t miss this at 3:00 p.m. on WashingThe Platters ton Street in Somerville and 5:00 p.m. at the corner of Cambridge and Warren Streets in East Cambridge. Local favorites, such as Smokin’ Joe and his band, entertain throughout the day as the food and fun flow through the streets. The parade arrives back on Warren Street at 7:00 p.m. for a welcome back confetti celebration followed by a performance by the world-famous The Platters and friends The Drifters and The Coasters! Come hear all-time favorites like “Only You,” “Under the Boardwalk” and “Yakety Yak” from these iconic groups. Come have a bite to eat, go on a ride, play a game and enjoy all of the great free entertainment. Parking is available in Twin City Plaza next to the feast all weekend. For Feast and vendor information, call 617-407-1256 or visit www. cosmas-and-damian.org. See you at the Feast! Pop 2000 tour ׉ 7cassandra://YxXonJbDCBawKW_ORJIU-L61P4KB_WN-rbEk9lBGfIk9`h4b :׉ETHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, AUGUST 29, 2025 Page 9 WIN Waste Innovations sponsors Row Row Row supporting autism awareness Revere is a fantastic event that we are proud to support.” This year’s race, coordinated by Stacey Livote, general manager of the Marina Restaurant & Bar at the Wharf, raised approximately $60,000—a testament to the community’s generosity and the event’s growing impact. WIN Waste Innovations remains dedicated to supporting meaningful causes and fostering strong community partnerships such as this one, Urban said. Competitors row down the Pines River with the WIN Waste Innovations facility in the background. Special to The Advocate W IN Waste Innovations served as a Gold sponsor for the seventh annual Row Row Row in Revere canoe race, held on August 24 along the Pines River. The event brought together 43 boats to compete on a 3-mile course, launching from the Point of Pines Yacht Club. Since the race’s inception, WIN Waste Innovations has been a committed sponsor, supporting its mission to raise funds for individuals and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder. “We are always pleased to partner with groups that actively work to make life better for others,” said Mary Urban, Senior Director of Communications & Community at WIN Waste Innovations. “Row Row Row in From left, race coordinator Stacey Livote, the Marina Restaurant & Bar at the Wharf owner Victor Molle and Jack Walsh, community relations specialist for WIN Waste Innovations. ׉ 7cassandra://XQZ9Bp69ckhUDGrTEZq25IPErnHe7w1Z6YhS7e_qmZA5S`h4b ;h4b : rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://5eSa09EzxLqpwWEjwQp9gZWOZpVr8jAIA-SdTwwWA1E`'p׉ 7cassandra://S1SA79zdaIymhOiIV0YYftczgHVQ-X9qVPoz4Ma4OP8ͪ|`׉ 7cassandra://rdO6T8rQQLsIBYjbVsQ6TSSSSiuZ5OKzz437iR7rFx08B`h9b {טUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://VewzDIE8KQwQwby01WH5yTY8_IFGWJkIrmNyAO7eWnw?`'p׉ 7cassandra://i495mUWeZYc2nDnv5n7hEfD8JKHN1OO_9jY5SszJJMw=`׉ 7cassandra://MP62BaTuu-UZ7KDFXLZpXIL2V9KyzkSjdt03pwW4tEs5D`h9b |נh9b v̝9׉H6https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC9G8ac-2BIUNDGlORcmc3KGjJmpGJinfyE-2FPoD4bbfnBC1KqchatGEX2q5vM5f91W72XXUBb2seQp-2B9GVjLagVkNGQI-2F-2BpsuP-2F6glHJtqgkElQBv7w_xAS4fg9a1FH0D-2Ff-2BXZtv2Gw8DJYcqK0Q9eltKZLlRtr5SgUQ-2BHQ573E7hT5AynQ7TzSmVejk3jER0aCr0RpheHJgt-2BCKvs-2BCsaF0Jsx0XQI2AjisEEPy3djpxIf6ggY3NvhxYqIriFOYY-2FHXNbckIfmaAGTEiePhToRu1TekDtCDesSgQIuqbi5qQHT4PO2g2PnX0aghubmRIuARXpPvr7a9sWeKNrAqnsGLFibcWwMyu256ut2nyRLUwgrjijFJKS9DxUE-2BcHU5nU4ISHM1HOeVS1k-2FURdq6kpJkiCalvYzOfZuuWmg6rwCxneD1c-2FqPSHzkmsg68bL-2BHqWIxqnjw-3D-3DGׁ ׁ rנh9b w69׉H6https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC9G8ac-2BIUNDGlORcmc3KGjJmpGJinfyE-2FPoD4bbfnBC1KqchatGEX2q5vM5f91W72XXUBb2seQp-2B9GVjLagVkNGQI-2F-2BpsuP-2F6glHJtqgkElQBv7w_xAS4fg9a1FH0D-2Ff-2BXZtv2Gw8DJYcqK0Q9eltKZLlRtr5SgUQ-2BHQ573E7hT5AynQ7TzSmVejk3jER0aCr0RpheHJgt-2BCKvs-2BCsaF0Jsx0XQI2AjisEEPy3djpxIf6ggY3NvhxYqIriFOYY-2FHXNbckIfmaAGTEiePhToRu1TekDtCDesSgQIuqbi5qQHT4PO2g2PnX0aghubmRIuARXpPvr7a9sWeKNrAqnsGLFibcWwMyu256ut2nyRLUwgrjijFJKS9DxUE-2BcHU5nU4ISHM1HOeVS1k-2FURdq6kpJkiCalvYzOfZuuWmg6rwCxneD1c-2FqPSHzkmsg68bL-2BHqWIxqnjw-3D-3DGׁ ׁ rנh9b x M@9׉Hhttps://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC9G8ac-2BIUNDGlORcmc3KGjJmpGJinfyE-2FPoD4bbfnBC1fuBZC9-2FrEfvFrUtneiVk3twCgsuEgz3x3SisDcLCJIg-3D96cb_xAS4fg9a1FH0D-2Ff-2BXZtv2Gw8DJYcqK0Q9eltKZLlRtr5SgUQ-2BHQ573E7hT5AynQ7TzSmVejk3jER0aCr0RpheHJgt-2BCKvs-2BCsaF0Jsx0XQI2AjisEEPy3djpxIf6ggY3NvhxYqIriFOYY-2FHXNbckIfmaAGTEiePhToRu1TekDtCDesSgQIuqbi5qQHT4PO2g2PnX0aghubmRIuARXpPvr1cqDnFunqLh91nNCS6yKmeTBcBRXH1K1vsABqLHTl26hStpaPKA8uxhdrvPBwrd921SuQuP-2Bo9oEzJidFT1jeZcwef-2FmkztOhxVmsdqmBVeoYz7t-2F0oA9JaJQRK2n-2BeZg-3D-3DGׁ ׁ rנh9b y tbA9׉Hhttps://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC9G8ac-2BIUNDGlORcmc3KGjJmpGJinfyE-2FPoD4bbfnBC1fuBZC9-2FrEfvFrUtneiVk3twCgsuEgz3x3SisDcLCJIg-3D96cb_xAS4fg9a1FH0D-2Ff-2BXZtv2Gw8DJYcqK0Q9eltKZLlRtr5SgUQ-2BHQ573E7hT5AynQ7TzSmVejk3jER0aCr0RpheHJgt-2BCKvs-2BCsaF0Jsx0XQI2AjisEEPy3djpxIf6ggY3NvhxYqIriFOYY-2FHXNbckIfmaAGTEiePhToRu1TekDtCDesSgQIuqbi5qQHT4PO2g2PnX0aghubmRIuARXpPvr1cqDnFunqLh91nNCS6yKmeTBcBRXH1K1vsABqLHTl26hStpaPKA8uxhdrvPBwrd921SuQuP-2Bo9oEzJidFT1jeZcwef-2FmkztOhxVmsdqmBVeoYz7t-2F0oA9JaJQRK2n-2BeZg-3D-3DGׁ ׁ r׉EPage 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, AUGUST 29, 2025 It’s the first day of school at Belmonte S.T.E.A.M. Academy By Tara Vocino L ike so many before them, a family found their happy home when they moved to Saugus. Proud mom Fernanda Neves and her son, Lucas, a second grader at the Belmonte S.T.E.A.M. Academy, 7, are looking forward to new teachers and a new school district after moving from Malden. “It’s the perfect fit for us,” Neves said. “We bought our first home with a nice-sized backyard.” Administrators were also excited to start school. Saugus Schools Superintendent Michael Hashem said although everyone is always nervous, the first day went well. “We’re always trying to adapt to new changes,” Hashem said. “Everyone stepped up to do their part, and we’re now up and running.” Belmonte S.T.E.A.M. Academy Principal Christopher Blair said Dow Street should be a one way to allow for smoother traffic flow during drop-off and pick-up. “Other than some arrival issues, it was a ridiculously easy day,” Blair said. “Everyone is excited to be back.” Assistant Principal Heidi Jimenez called it a success for both students and teachers. Second graders Brooklynn Marte (at right) and Alice Nicole Luna Ruano were nervous about going back to school. Fifth grader Joy Phelan and her proud aunt, Valerie White, said they’re excited and nervous to be back. Second grader Sophia Chavez said she is happy about going back to school. Second grader Stephen Kent and Principal Christopher Blair Fifth grader Ashley Lopes showed off her new backpack. Fourth grader Lillian LoPresti was all smiles. Second grader Aubrey Fleury kissed her mother goodbye. It’s that time of the year when the school bus arrives. (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) New to the district are proud mother Fernanda Neves and second grader Lucas, who previously attended Salemwood School in Malden; they are shown at Belmonte S.T.E.A.M. Academy on Wednesday morning. ׉ 7cassandra://rdO6T8rQQLsIBYjbVsQ6TSSSSiuZ5OKzz437iR7rFx08B`h4b @׉EOTHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, AUGUST 29, 2025 Page 11 Looking back on the life and times of Saugus educator Constance O. Putnam By Janice Jarosz C onstance O. Putnam was a well-known and well-loved Saugus Elementary School teacher, who was born at home in Saugus on Feb. 10, 1908. Her grandfather built their home at 147 Essex Street, and her father built another home somewhere else in the area of Saugus. She told me that her parents, the late Marion, and Emily (Oliver) Putman, were married 13 years prior to her birth, her mother 40, and her father 50 years old. Miss Putnam chuckled when she said, “I must surely have been a surprise for both parents upon my appearance into the world!” Unfortunately, her father passed away when Constance was quite young, and several years later, her mother married Mr. Frank Sloan. Constance attended the Felton School, the old Armitage School, Saugus High School, Wheelock College, Boston University and the Scott Carbee School of Art. After she completed her education, Miss Putnam obtained employment in the Saugus School System as a first-grade teacher. She taught at the Cliftondale School for approximately 20 years, along with Marleah Graves, Florence Stone and Mrs. Beckman, principal. Miss Putnam shared her many concerns on teaching children. “I do not believe children should have homework assignments until the fourth or fifth grade. There is too much stress on the students and by the time they reach the high school level – sometimes the stress gets ORANGE DINOSAUR | FROM PAGE 7 tion with the prospective buyer, Wingate, at 26 Collins (‘Unit 5’) and 30 Collins (‘Unit 4’).” Crabtree told Barsamian towards the end of the Meeting that “the obstacles to the development would be removed.” But TB Holdings alleged that things got worse and that the town and Crabtree “continued to obstruct TB Holdings’ development of the Undeveloped Units.” “In September of 2022, despite meeting with Crabtree and the tender of the required $200,000 Payment, the Town— at Crabtree’s instigation—issued a cease and desist for its project and required TB Holdings to undergo a complete peer review on the project site where millions of dollars of site work had already been completed and approved by the Town,” TB Holdings alleged. “After the peer review was completed (which further delayed the project and cost TB Holdings thousands of dollars), the Planning Board then required TB Holdings to perform additional work on the site, which was not required or set forth in the plans. The Defendants have improperly delayed and denied subsequent municipal approvals sought by TB Holdings for the development of the Undeveloped Units since the $200,000 Payment on multiple occasions.” TB Holdings alleged that unnecessary obstacles created by the town and Crabtree have delayed construction of assisted living housing on Route 1 in addition to 40 more apartment units. “We’re proud to be the owners of the orange dinosaur, which everybody sees when they drive down Route 1,” Barsamian told The Saugus Advocate in an interview this week. “The orange dinosaur and the Citgo Sign outside Fenway Park are the two most iconic signs in Greater Boston. The orange dinosaur is a Saugus landmark. But now the orange dinosaur is suing the Town of Saugus,” he said. “The town manager took the $200,000. But instead of helping us, he hurt us with a three-year delay in the project. It’s caused us a lot of harm and we still have a construction trailer on-site,” he said. too much for many of them to manage. Given the fact they have so much needless pressure early in their school years, it is perfectly understandable,” she told me in a 2008 interview. “Children are not allowed to be children today. Everything is programmed and planned for them. Parents should let their children have some free time to be themselves, not worrying about assignments. These poor children sit in a classroom most of the day and they need to release that tension to just play and be carefree,” she said. “The most important subject during the first three years of school is Reading. Our teachers taught the Scott Forman System about Dick, Jane, and baby Sally. We put words together with the pictures and children were able to learn by association. We taught Phonics and some children who could not grasp that method, they all could relate to ‘See Sally run.’” Miss Putnam offered the following tips for future teachers: “I believe that it would be a good idea to teach a class in money management. Youngsters today do not seem to know the cost of anything. They spend too much and do not take into consideration tomorrow or plan for a rainy day. A course in Ethics would also go a long way in preparing students for their adult life. “I also do not believe in all the tests children have to endure. Each child develops in his or her own way and time. Some children take a little longer than others, while others learn at a faster rate. The children are all individuals and should be treated as such.” “Every summer the custodian oiled the floors in preparation for the new school year. When I had only 40 students in my class, I considered myself lucky! I often wondered why the school was never named after Mr. Bond – it really should have been his name from what I remember.” Miss Putnam passed away on May 13, 2012, at Oosterman’s Rest Home in Melrose, Mass. She was 104 years old. Note: As a testament to her love of children, in 1997 she set up a private foundation, donating approximately $400,000 each year to dozens of organizations and hospitals, all earmarked for the care and protection of children. BBB Scam Alert: Preparing to travel abroad? Watch out for online passport renewal scams Tips from the Better Business Bureau I f you’re traveling internationally, you might need to renew your passport. Consumers unaware of the passport renewal process might fall victim to online scams. These scams trick U.S. citizens into paying a fee to fill out a renewal form that is a free download on the government’s website. As a result, consumers might be tricked into providing their personal and financial information on potentially unsecure websites. U.S. citizens can now renew their passports online with the U.S. Department of State if they meet the online renewal requirements. If you do not meet the requirements, you can still renew your passport by mail. How the scam works: You have planned an exciting international trip, so you go online and search for how to renew your passport. At the top of your search results is what appears to be the U.S. passport renewal website. The website might even be listed as “sponsored.” The site tells you what forms need to be provided and that you can fill out the forms right there. You’re asked to provide your personal information: your social security number, home address, birth date and much more. After completing the form, you’re asked to pay a “processing fee” or an “application fee.” You’re then told that you’ll receive your completed form as a PDF in an email confirmation. When you receive your confirmation email with your completed PDF form, you are told that you still need to pay money for the actual renewal of your passport. At this moment, you might realize you’ve been scammed into paying to fill out a form instead of actually paying to renew your passport. On top of that, you might have just handed your personal and financial information over to a scammer. How to avoid similar scams · Do your research. Before renewing your passport, look up the most recent information on the renewal process. Start by checking with the U.S. government. Remember that you should not have to pay a fee to fill out the required forms for a passport renewal — you’ll only need to provide payment for the renewal itself. You can check the costs of passport fees in advance. · Give yourself plenty of time SCAM ALERT | SEE PAGE 12 ׉ 7cassandra://MP62BaTuu-UZ7KDFXLZpXIL2V9KyzkSjdt03pwW4tEs5D`h4b Ah4b @ rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://Ltvqrv9IDzElC3Pzq7rM5nzX8TcG_DTlPU8Wk3UBRyIԂ`'p׉ 7cassandra://jKZFEA7nVY5cXzQGtBPoYnvotTZtYZDDC13Y6kFy27c`׉ 7cassandra://PpRFl4OjpgxwDmSrodJHWVmeoszNywsFzzkb2ubbuGM6`h9b טUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://Sp1vdjJUNdg9qGAEOrx8HrVe2_uZGSZ101-yD60RYLUE`'p׉ 7cassandra://xP_I5KF6eBBr_WMeICV0BdD9F0tCY6bxkh_h4QCsWd8G`׉ 7cassandra://AHRrYo93lTiOAClUtVKWdcZ6AecTljokH0WrhU2sSvU:`h:b נh:b 49ׁHhttps://www.bbb.org/all/travׁ ׁ Јנh:b '=9ׁHhttp://BBB.orgׁ ׁ Јנh:b d̳9ׁHhttps://www.bbb.org/ׁ ׁ Јנh:b F9ׁHhttp://state.govׁ ׁ Јנh:b 9̆9ׁHmailto:ty@polymnia.orgׁ ׁ Јנh:b 9}9ׁHhttp://polymnia.org/howׁ ׁ Јנh:b 59ׁHhttp://www.usnews.com/educaׁ ׁ Ј׉EMPage 12 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, AUGUST 29, 2025 Pioneer Charter School of Science I & II earn top 10 Rankings in Mass. PCSS ii ranks #7 and PCSS i ranks #10 among best high schools in the Commonwealth P ioneer Charter School of Science, a college prep charter school network with campuses in Everett and Saugus, was proud to announce that both of its schools have been recognized among the top 10 best high schools by U.S. News & World Report in its 2025 rankings. PCSS II (Saugus) was ranked #7 in the state while PCSS I (Everett) came in at #10, placing both campuses among the top-performing high schools out of hundreds across the Commonwealth. Both campuses were ranked highly for their graduation rates, participation in Advanced Placement (AP) classes, AP exam scores and MCAS exam scores. “These results are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, teachers, and families,” said PCSS CEO Barish Icin. “We are honored by this recognition and remain committed to preyond. Last year about 90% of graduates chose to attend four-year institutions: Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston University, Cornell University, Harvey Mudd College and more. For more information on the rankings, visit: https:// www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/massachusetts/rankings About Pioneer Charter School of Science PCSS is a rigorous college Pioneer Charter School of Science II’s Class of 2025 paring our students for success in college and beyond.” U.S. News & World Report evaluates schools based on multiple indicators of academic success, including college readiness, state assessment performance, underserved student performance, and graduation rates. With Massachusetts having one of the most competitive public education systems in the country, this achievement is Come sing with Polymnia Choral Society! It’s easy to join! D o you enjoy singing and meeting interesting people? Polymnia Choral Society is looking for singers of all skill levels. For more than 70 years, Polymnia has been entertaining audiences with performances that include pieces from a wide variety of musical styles: classical, pop, musical theater and more. Come join a community of more than 60 members who love to sing and have fun! We welcome participants from all over Massachusetts. Currently, we have members from Melrose, Malden, Wakefield, Stoneham, Saugus, Acton and Hamilton. Our concert season runs from September until June. Polymnia rehearses every Tuesday from 7 to 9 p.m., starting this year on September 2, at Melrose Highlands Congregational Church (355 Franklin St.). Come to any rehearsal and introduce yourself to Music Librarian Pam Ross, President Steve Francis or Vice President David Hammond. The 2025-2026 season is not to be missed! On December 6, Polymnia performs “Patterns in the Snow,” a wintry-themed concert featuring holiday favorites with enduring and uplifting music that warms the spirit. On March 7, 2026, Polymnia presents “An American Quilt,” highlighting the rich artistic and cultural heritage of our country in celebration of its 250th birthday. On June 6, 2026, “Polymnia Goes to Broadway” and will perform hit songs from popular past and present Broadway musicals. Come join the fun in singing in one or all three of these concerts! All singers are welcome. For more information about joining Polymnia, visit https:// polymnia.org/how-to-join/ or call Polymnia Board of Directors President Steve Francis at 617-633-5006. Accessibility Information: An ADA-compliant ramp is located on the West Highland Avenue entrance of Melrose Highlands Congregational Church, between Ashland Street and Chipman Avenue. Any accessibility questions, requests or concerns can be emailed to accessibility@polymnia.org. Mark your calendars! Polymnia will be performing “Patterns in the Snow” at 7:30 p.m. on December 6, 2025, at St. Mary of the Annunciation Church (4 Herbert St. in Melrose). particularly noteworthy. A school with high academic standards and expectations, PCSS frequently sends its students to the best colleges and universities in Massachusetts and beSCAM ALERT | FROM PAGE 11 when renewing your passport. Processing times for passport renewals can change often. In addition to the indicated processing times, you should also consider the time it takes for your passport to arrive at the passport agency and then be mailed back to your home address. Check state.gov to see current processing times and plan ahead. Giving yourself plenty of time might reduce your likelihood of searching for quicker options, some of which could be scams. You can expedite your passport renewal with the U.S. government for an extra fee, but it might take several weeks. · Confirm the website’s URL before providing sensitive information. It can be easy to click on an impostor website without noticing. Sometimes the sponsored ads at the top of your search results can lead to these fake sites. Don’t always click on the first webpreparatory charter school that aims to prepare educationally under-resourced students for today’s competitive world. PCSS I, which is located in Everett, serves students in Grades K through 12 from several communities north of Boston: Everett, Chelsea and Revere. PCSS II, which is located in Saugus, serves students in Grades K through 12 from Saugus, Salem, Peabody, Lynn and Danvers. site you see. Remember, government websites end in .gov, but always take a closer look. Scammers can trick you into thinking URLs look legitimate when they aren’t. Before typing in sensitive information, check that the website and link are secure. Learn more about identifying fake websites: https://www.bbb.org/ all/spot-a-scam/how-to-identify-a-fake-website · Be wary of third-party websites. There are legitimate passport assistance services, but check with BBB.org and BBB Scam Tracker first to ensure you aren’t sharing your personal or financial information with a scammer. For more information Are you traveling soon? BBB can help you prepare with tips (https://www.bbb.org/all/travel) and watch out for similar scams involving Trusted Traveler programs like TSA Precheck, Global Entry and NEXUS. ׉ 7cassandra://PpRFl4OjpgxwDmSrodJHWVmeoszNywsFzzkb2ubbuGM6`h4b B׉EWTHE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, AUGUST 29, 2025 Page 13 Saugus Gardens in the Summer Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable By Laura Eisener W hile I had plenty to say about hydrangeas earlier in the summer, we are by no means finished with them! Panicle hydrangeas, at their peak of bloom now, are among the most adaptable of the hydrangeas. They are able to tolerate quite a bit of hot and dry weather without drooping. They are also the most likely to bloom reliably every year, since unlike some other hydrangea species their flowers are produced in the spring of the same year they bloom. This means that a cold or stressful winter is less likely to have any effect on their flowers than on the bigleaf hydrangeas. They can also be expected to thrive in sunny locations, while the bigleaf hydrangeas need afternoon shade. The colors are usually white, with some varieties producing pink tones, but they will not have blue or purple flowers. The large shrub on the Taylor Street side of Town Hall is covered with snowy white flower panicles, with all flowers in the sterile large petaled form. This is probably the variety sometimes called pee gee hydrangea; the first two words standing for the letters of its scientific species and variety name (Hydrangea paniculata grandiflora). There are some newer varieties that have similar flower forms. The lack of fertile flowers makes the clusters especially large and showy, but it means that new plants cannot grow from seed. They need to be propagated from cuttings in order to make new plants. Panicle hydrangeas are native to China, Japan and Korea. They are among the most cold hardy of the hydrangeas, and able to thrive even in the colder parts of New England (not Mt. Washington, but almost everywhere else). They are known for blooming for several months: from July until September or even October. There are quite a few popular varieties. ‘Limelight’ is a tall variety with flowers that start out pale green and turn white at peak bloom. ‘Little Lime’ have similarly shaped flower clusters, but the plant is shorter, usually around 4’5’ tall. Another white variety for a location that needs a shorter shrub is ‘Bobo.’ Some varieties are inclined to have some pink shades in the blossoms and may become brighter pink as the flowers fade and dry. ‘Quickfire’ and ‘Pinky Winky’ are two varieties that can be expected to do this. A shorter hydrangea variety with pink tones is ‘Strawberry Sundae,’ which stays in the 4’-5’ range. If they need to be pruned, the best time for this species is November through March, while they This panicle hydrangea on the back corner of Town Hall is quite a spectacle in late summer. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) are dormant. When people speak of tree hydrangeas, they mean panicle hydrangea shrubs, which have been trained when young to have a single straight trunk rather than multiple stems emerging from the ground. It is not a different species of plant – all of the taller varieties of panicle hydrangeas can be trained into a tree form. They are usually more expensive than the shrub version, since quite a bit of time and effort has gone into the reshaping of the young shrubs so that by the time they are available in a nursery they do in The panicles, or flower clusters, are cone shaped in this species of hydrangea. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) fact have a tree shape. Tree hydrangeas make good foGARDENS | SEE PAGE 22 A sea of petunias bloom in a raised bed beneath the Roller World Plaza sign on Route 1. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) The wavy stripes on the pink zebra foliage vary on every leaf and include pink, white, several shades of green, and sometimes purple. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) This pink zebra corn is grown for its striped foliage as well as its dark purple popcorn kernels. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) ׉ 7cassandra://AHRrYo93lTiOAClUtVKWdcZ6AecTljokH0WrhU2sSvU:`h4b Ch4b B rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://k2Wgp6gMWO_Pe5GI-rw8UGIG1lcp_NhsxbapR6iYIzI c`'p׉ 7cassandra://Ufdl32HdZcsCNco4WJE8PZpM7nGXFU4bdxkxzO1LMTEͶ`׉ 7cassandra://WXX3euoXGXaJ1T5OdR4b3rXL_k7QiimRbvfXP56fXb82*`h:b טUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://i43FiqdM7QOrGZ5glL7REziNNvvB_6B1IRcTJ4UqOt0 d`'p׉ 7cassandra://noDOmFJZAURWEDQCAjEWvxruCtzNRl0Lw4d85v1Bm_w`׉ 7cassandra://ej_kUy-NbU4Bloau-CAAGYb1Gr8rETUhqRDWk94syN85?`h:b נh:b  mS9ׁHhttp://gmail.comׁ ׁ Јנh:b  miU9ׁHhttp://clibrary.orgׁ ׁ Јנh:b vQe9ׁHhttp://alcouncil.orgׁ ׁ Јנh:b v9ׁHhttp://turalcouncil.org/localׁ ׁ Ј׉EPage 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, AUGUST 29, 2025 The Sounds of Saugus By Mark E. Vogler Good morning, Saugus It’s a nice time of the year. The kids went back to school this week. Before you know it, summer will be officially over and autumn will be upon us (Sept. 22). It will be time to rake leaves and plant bulbs for next spring’s flower beds. And if you are into spectator sports, Major League Baseball will be in playoff mode and the National Football League season will be underway. I returned from my two-week vacation this week and I’m back to work. It was very productive and relaxing. I got to do some fun things and spend some quality time with my good friends. One-day trash pickup delay The Town of Saugus announced that trash and recycling collection will run on a one-day delay for the Labor Day holiday. Trash and recycling will not be collected on Monday (Sept. 1) due to the holiday. Collection will resume on a one-day delay on Tuesday (Sept. 2). Residents are kindly asked to leave their trash and recycling curbside by 7 a.m. the day after their normally scheduled collection day. The Town of Saugus would like to thank everyone for their cooperation. Please contact Solid Waste/Recycling Coordinator Scott A. Brazis at 781231-4036 with any questions. Signature events for September There are a couple of Saugus events worth noting that will be coming up next month. I just received an email from Joyce Rodenhiser, asking me to put a notice in this week’s paper to let our readers know that they should “Save the date – Sept. 13” on their calendar. Joyce passed on this important information: “At noon time, in front of our Town Hall, on Founders Day, the Persons of the Year will be announced! Come, see who has been helping Saugus be a better place because of what they have done voluntarily for Saugonians and organizations. “Founders Day is a great time A PATRIOTIC LOOK BACK: presenting Service Medals at Town Hall in 1918. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) Meanwhile, three incumbent to see old friends and classmates! It’s a big block party with lots of food, fun, civic organizations and shopping. Join us downtown to see what’s happening!” There’s another signature Saugus event happening in September. Karen Spencer reminded me this week that “The Pumpkin Patch” will reappear at First Congregational Church on the side lawn along Hamilton Street, facing Saugus Town Hall. “Our first delivery of pumpkins will be on Saturday, September 27th at 9 am,” Karen wrote in her email. “We need help to un-load the huge truck that will be parked on Hamilton Street. Please come down to the church and help. High school students will receive community service hours for helping. The second delivery is expected on October 11th where we also need help.” The campaign is on! The Nov. 4 Town Election is nine weeks away from this coming Tuesday (Sept. 2). That’s a long time to campaign. But things have definitely been heating up in the School Committee, Board of Selectmen and Housing Authority races since the nomination papers became available to aspiring candidates on July 21. When I checked Monday with the Town Clerk’s Office for the candidates who had pulled out nomination papers, the Housing Authority was a crowded field for the one seat that will be on the ballot in the fall. Precinct 8 Town Meeting Member Kristi Talagan, who ran for the Housing Authority four years ago and lost, had previously pulled papers to run for a seat on the Housing Authority again. Precinct 7 Town Meeting Member John Chipouras and incumbent Housing Authority Member Bill Stewart – who beat out two challengers to keep his seat four years ago – make it a three-candidate race. As of Monday, there were seven candidates who had pulled papers for the five seats on the School Committee and seven candidates for the five spots on the Board of Selectmen. School Committee Member Stephanie Lauren Mastrocola is the latest candidate and the first incumbent member. The field so far includes former School Committee Members Arthur Grabowski and Joseph “Dennis” Gould and challengers Shannon McCarthy, Andrew T. Finn, Roberto F. Bruzzese and Finance Committee Member Brian J. Doherty. selectmen have already pulled papers – Board of Selectmen Chair Debra Panetta and Selectmen Anthony Cogliano and Michael Serino. Former Selectman Jennifer Elaine D’Eon heads the list of challengers, which includes Precinct 1 Town Meeting Member Stacey Marie Herman-Dorant, Precinct 7 Town Meeting Member Frank Federico and Sandro Pansini Souza, an unsuccessful candidate for selectman two years ago when he finished seventh in a field of seven candidates. He currently serves as treasurer on the Saugus TV Board of Directors. There are all sorts of reports out there on possible candidates who haven’t announced yet. If 10 candidates wind up on the Nov. 4 ballot for the School Committee and Selectmen races, that would be great for town voters. To have a competitive local election, the ideal situation is to have two candidates for each elective position. But it’s still early. Candidates have until 5 p.m. Sept. 12 to obtain nomination papers from the Town Clerk’s Office. The deadline for filing those nomination papers is 5 p.m. Sept. 16. Stay tuned. This week’s “Shout out” Newly appointed Housing Authority Executive Director Joseph A. Hart began work this week with a lot of optimism and high praise for the people he will be working for and working with. “I am excited to work for the Saugus Housing Authority. We have good residents who care about the Town, good employees who care about serving the community and an enviable real estate portfolio,” Hart told The Saugus Advocate recently. “I will help maintain high levels of service to our residents by working with our employees and board of directors to improve operations and facilities.” 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/ THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 15 ׉ 7cassandra://WXX3euoXGXaJ1T5OdR4b3rXL_k7QiimRbvfXP56fXb82*`h4b D׉E/THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, AUGUST 29, 2025 Page 15 SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 14 or a photo. Saugus United Parish Food Pantry The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry is open today (Friday, Aug. 29) from 9:30-11 a.m. at 50 Essex St. in the basement of Cliftondale Congregational Church. The food pantry welcomes all neighbors facing food insecurity on Friday mornings. Volunteers are also welcome. Please call the Food Pantry Office (781-233-2663) or go to the website (cliftondalecc. org) for details. Town Democrats meet Sept. 10 The Saugus Democratic Town Committee will meet Sept. 10 at 7 p.m. in the second floor conference room of the Saugus Public Safety Building (27 Hamilton St., Saugus). Alcohol/Drug Recovery program Oct. 20 The Saugus-Everett Elks Drug Awareness Committee is sponsoring an Alcohol and Drug Recovery presentation from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Monday October 20, at the Saugus Senior Center (466 Central St. in Saugus). This will be an hourlong presentation conducted by Sober Shuttle, Inc. explaining the benefits offered to recovering individuals. This is a free event, and people who are interested are welcome to attend. If you or someone you know would like to know more about these services, you should not miss this informative event. Services provided are cost-free transportation into treatment, recovery coach services, placement assistance, food assistance, clothing assistance, community engagement and much more. Light refreshments will be served. Call the Saugus Senior Center at 781-231-3178 to attend. Walk-ins are also welcome. Wayne keeps winning by losing People often ask me how my brother Wayne is doing, as there has been great reader interest in my periodic updates on his efforts to lose weight. As you may recall, I was at wit’s end back in the fall of 2020. Wayne weighed 377 pounds on Oct. 5 of that year, which American Legion Post #210 Women’s Auxiliary held its annual cookout on Aug. 23. Seated in the front row: 2024 Saugus Woman of the Year Mary Dunlop, Marie Marshall, Judith Worthley, Diane Bogdan McConnell, Emylee Hayes and Joanie Allbee. Standing behind: Shannon Davis, Louise Davis, Shirley Bogdan, Sandra Milano and Mary Lou Graham. (Courtesy photo of John Davis) prompted me to request some help from his primary care physician, Mark A. Ringiewicz, of Swansea. Dr. Ringiewicz made a referral to Dr. Jessica Inwood, a Fall River physician who specializes in diet and weight loss. Wayne had the option to have surgery or be placed on a weight reduction plan based on medication. We chose the natural way – without surgery or medication. “You’re still doing great! I’m your biggest cheerleader,” Dr. Inwood told Wayne during his visit last week. Wayne’s weight hit a new low – down to 238 pounds – still a little heavy for a guy who is five-foot-ten-inches tall. “A 36 percent weight loss just since we met about five years ago – and doing it without medication or surgery – is just remarkable,” Dr. Inwood said. “Now, it’s just 18 pounds and you will be down to your goal,” she said. Wayne had previously set a goal of slimming down to 220 pounds, his high school football playing weight. I asked Dr. Inwood to put Wayne’s dramatic weight loss into the context of all of the patients she’s seen over the years. It turns out Wayne is at the top of the list of her stars. “I’ve had a lot of patients who have lost over 100 pounds – but not without medication or surgery,” she said. “You stand as a great example of what a person can do. You took the first step and followed through. Every day is a new day.” Wayne achieved his incredible weight loss through exercise (he walks a half hour with weights a couple of times a day several days a week while making adjustments in his eating – following Dr. Inwood’s food plan, lowering his consumption and not eating at night. It definitely worked. And the trick will be for Wayne to continue what he’s been doing. Stay tuned. Cultural Council seeks grant applicants Tori Darnell, co-chair of the Saugus Cultural Council, submitted this announcement to alert town residents and local organizations about local grant opportunities: Did you know that the Saugus Cultural Council has awarded grants to people and organizations for artistic, educational, and cultural projects and programs since 1998? We are committed to supporting cultural programs and events that showcase diversity and add vibrancy in the Town of Saugus. This includes the visual arts, education, dance, drama, interpretive science, the environment, literature, music, public art, and wellness. If you have an idea for a project and/or program that brings public benefit to the Saugus community, then consider applying for a Local Cultural Council Grant! Our 2026 grant application period runs from September 2 through October 16, 2025. We prioritize applications from Saugus organizations, individuals, and organizers, and to projects that take place in the Town of Saugus. More information about grant guidelines and priorities can be seen at https://massculturalcouncil.org/local-council/ saugus/. On Tuesday, September 9, the Mass Cultural Council will host an online information session on how these grants work and how to apply. The session is free and can be accessed at https://massculturalcouncil.org. The Saugus Cultural Council will be available at Founder’s Day, Saturday, September 13 to provide live support in submitting an application or provide project feedback. Come with a description of your project and any questions about the grant application process. The Saugus Cultural Council will also be available at the Saugus Public Library on Tuesday, September 23 to provide additional live support. Newspapers at the library Thanks to a donation from a patron, The New York Times is now available at the Library, according to Saugus Public Library Director Alan Thibeault. “You can also stop by and read the Saugus Advocate, Lynn Item, Boston Herald, and the Boston Globe as well!” Thibeault said. Adult Craft Night returns! Join us on Tuesday, September 2, from 6-7 p.m. in the Brooks Room at the Saugus Public Library. We will be making Acorns with fabric and twine for fall decor. Registration begins August 19 on our Events Calendar: sauguspubliclibrary.org Saugus Youth Cross Country 2025 Grades 1-5 and 6-8 students not running for a school team can start: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3:45 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Belmonte; Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Breakheart Reservation. The training distances are 1st to 3rd, .7 miles; 4th and 5th, 1.2 miles; 6th-8th, 1.9 miles. Practice races are Saturdays (to be determined) at Frey Park in Lynn at 285 Walnut St. Saturday, Oct. 25: Fun Run practice at Breakheart. Athletes are encouraged to wear a costume. Saturday, Nov. 1: 16th Annual Massachusetts State Middle School Cross Country Championships at Willard Field in Devens; more information to be announced. Tuesday, Nov. 11: 11th Annual Massachusetts Elementary School Cross Country Championship; 8:30 a.m. arrival and 9:30 a.m. start; Lynn’s Gannon Golf Course, 60 Great Woods Rd.; lunch at Prince Pizza following the meet. Ending Thursday, Nov. 13 – wrap-up session at Belmonte. Cost: $150 for first year, $75 returning from Cross Country 2024. If you have any questions, need further information or want to register, please contact Coach T at 781-854-6778 or Christophertarantino24@ gmail.com. THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 18 ׉ 7cassandra://ej_kUy-NbU4Bloau-CAAGYb1Gr8rETUhqRDWk94syN85?`h4b Eh4b D rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://pfwU-rbKc3b6qIjjtX-QDRjsHyfI0nanF-nAsiJ7fFM U`'p׉ 7cassandra://79k3cVMk8cPLdiVMjZ3kqLaV75pDITBu7ilH6uzHIPwŤ`׉ 7cassandra://beEw5AdeYldwiyxCqKsbI2rVTPZmwRMNvMSuKUmPc-U2`h:b טUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://9eSuL5kGVXtCtyQA3cClfpYFmuh73xkka_qwng2YsV0m}`'p׉ 7cassandra://TkEHuCQTEJyAcZR98RxG-TGVslM70gYXOCCSh_XhZLwE`׉ 7cassandra://LF_lfOr0MBPthroeXtkWVIibTdOLcDHhc564083A44o0`h;b נh;b  mӁ{ 9ׁHhttp://hillrollcall.comׁ ׁ Јנh;b  {g9ׁHhttp://Tues.Auׁ ׁ Јנh;b 9ׁHhttp://SupermarketNews.comׁ ׁ Ј׉EmPage 16 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, AUGUST 29, 2025 Beacon Hill Roll Call Volume 50 -Report No. 34 August 18-22, 2025 Copyright © 2025 Beacon Hill Roll Call. All Rights Reserved. By Bob Katzen T HE HOUSE AND SENATE: There were no roll call votes in the House or Senate last week. This week, Beacon Hill Roll Call reports local senators’ roll call attendance records for the 2025 session through August 22. The Senate has held 68 roll calls so far in the 2025 session. Beacon Hill Roll Call tabulates the number of roll calls on which each senator voted and then calculates that number as a percentage of the total roll call votes held. That percentage is the number referred to as the roll call attendance record. Senate rules allow a senator, who is not physically at the session in the Senate chamber, to vote remotely from any location and without giving a reason for his or her absence from the Senate chamber. The House does not permit remote voting. Sometimes a senator is not able to attend only one or two sessions during which roll calls are held, but since there are sometimes multiple roll calls on each one of those days, the number of roll calls they missed can be high even though they only missed one or two sessions. Thirty-six (90 percent) out of 40 senators did not miss any roll call votes and had a 100 precent roll call attendance record. Four (10 percent) out of 40 senators missed one or more roll call votes. The senator who missed the most number of roll calls is Sen. Lydia Edwards (D-Boston) who missed 23 roll calls (66.1 percent roll call attendance record.) Edwards did not respond to repeated requests from Beacon Hill Roll Call asking her why she missed so many roll call votes. Two other senators who missed one or more roll call votes are Sens. Mike Barrett (D-Lexington) who missed 2 roll calls (97.0 percent roll call attendance record) and Adam Gomez (D-Springfi eld) who missed one roll call (98.5 percent roll call attendance record.) Neither one responded to repeated requests from Beacon Hill Roll Call asking them why they missed any roll call votes. It is a Senate tradition that the Senate president only votes occasionally. Current Senate President Karen Spilka follows that tradition and only voted on 18 (26.5 percent) of the 68 roll calls while not voting on 50 (73.5 percent) of them. SENATORS’ 2025 ROLL CALL ATTENDANCE RECORDS THROUGH AUGUST 22, 2025 Here are the 2025 roll call attendance records of local senators through August 22. The percentage listed next to the senators’ name is the percentage of roll call votes on which the senator voted. The number in parentheses represents the number of roll calls that he or she missed. Sen. Brendan Crighton 100 percent (0) ALSO UP ON BEACON HILL ALCOHOL LICENSES (H 4285) – The House gave initial approval to a bill that would make changes in some of the state’s alcohol permitting laws. The measure would authorize on-premises alcoholic beverage consumption within certain noncontiguous area licensed premises subject to approval by the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC). Current law prohibits this licensing unless the areas are contiguous. The measure also would repeal the current law that prohibits any applicant who has been convicted of a federal or state narcotic drugs charge from holding an on-premises alcoholic beverages consumption license; as well as the current restriction prohibiting any applicant who has been convicted of a felony from holding an off-premises alcoholic beverages consumption license. Those prohibitions would be replaced by a new law requiring that applicants for any license must be of satisfactory character to local and state licensing authorities. “This bill is an important step toward updating outdated alcohol laws to refl ect today’s business landscape,” said sponsor State Treasurer Deb Goldberg. “By removing unnecessary restrictions and improving oversight, it supports economic growth in our communities while maintaining strong oversight and prioritizing public safety.” Rep. Christopher Worrell (D-Boston), who also sponsored a similar bill, did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking him to comment on the bill. Supporters said allowing areas to be non-contiguous mainly impacts outdoor seating and patios. They noted that licensees who have patios that are separated by a sidewalk or a road, under current law, have to go through extra steps to extend their license to that area. They said that the change would simplify that process. They said that for on-premise and off -premise licenses the rules around criminal record are currently inconsistent. They noted that having any felony conviction disqualifi es an applicant from holding an off-premise license, but for on-premise licenses, only narcotics related charges disqualify an applicant. They argued that the bill would allow local licensing authorities and the ABCC to standardize this process and evaluate an applicant’s criminal record more holistically. They cited cases in which an applicant was charged decades ago and has had zero issues since then. They noted that all applicants would still have a CORI check and be subject to consideration of their character and fitness. LIQUOR LICENSE SUSPENSION (H 4275) – Current law suspends the liquor license of and closes down for a period of time, any package store that is found guilty of selling to a minor or an intoxicated individual. However, in big box stores, supermarkets, gas stations and other places in which liquor sales are not their primary business, a violation results only in the closing of the liquor department. A bill, sponsored by Rep. Steven Howitt (R-Seekonk), and given initial approval by the House, would amend current law so that the entire establishment, not just the liquor department, is closed down. “This bill levels the playing field between small family-owned liquor stores and large corporate big box stores selling liquor,” said Howitt. “It will serve to tighten up the oversight for alcohol sales.” Howitt continued, ”This bill was fi led to strengthen public safety in our cities and towns because illegal alcohol sales have been on the rise due to relaxed regulations during and resulting from the pandemic. The bill also fi xes an inadvertent disparity that has developed by reinstating uniform consequences and standards for all establishments licensed to sell alcoholic beverages who willfully violate important public safety regulations regarding alcohol sales to minors or intoxicated individuals. All retailers of alcoholic beverages will be treated equally regardless of whether the establishment is a supermarket, convenience store or package store. FORTUNE TELLERS (H 475) – The House gave initial approval to legislation that would eliminate the current state law requiring that all fortune telling applicants must have lived in the city or town in which they are seeking their license to practice, for at least one continuous year prior to fi ling their application. Supporters said the bill will remove an old law that has become antiquated and makes no sense. “A municipal employee reached out to me several years back because she had discovered the residency requirement and thought it was a little odd,” said sponsor Rep. Susannah Whipps (U-Athol). “A coff ee shop in her city was looking to have a tarot card reader, and as it turns out fortunetellers must be licensed in Massachusetts just as a barber or hairdresser would be and also the law requires residency in the community in which they practice. My bill removes the 1-year residency requirement. This law was most likely put in place to prevent grifters or con artists from coming into a town and scamming people.” PROHIBIT GROCERY STORES FROM USING BIOMETRICS TO INCREASE PRICES OR SUGGEST ITEMS (H 99) – The House gave initial approval to a measure that would prohibit grocery stores from suggesting items or adjusting the prices of any item directly or indiBEACON | SEE PAGE 17 ׉ 7cassandra://beEw5AdeYldwiyxCqKsbI2rVTPZmwRMNvMSuKUmPc-U2`h4b F׉E THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, AUGUST 29, 2025 Page 17 BEACON | FROM PAGE 16 rectly based on the biometric data of individuals collected on the premises of a grocery store. Grocery stores would be allowed to use biometrics to allow customers to voluntarily verify their identity at the point of sale. Violations by a grocery store would result in the store being fined for the amount of actual damages or $5,000, whichever is higher. According to the website SupermarketNews.com, the biometrics can often involve the scanning of customer fingerprints or retinas. “I filed this bill after learning that the largest grocery store chain in the U.S. is rolling out facial recognition technology and electronic price tags,” said sponsor Rep. Lindsay Sabadosa (D-Northampton). “These technologies, when put together, allow grocery stores to identify individual customers, their characteristics like race and gender and shopping habits. It has been shown time and time again that pricing algorithms are designed to take more money out of consumer pockets, and there is no place for this at the grocery store.” In April at a public hearing, Woodrow Hartzog, a professor at Boston University’s School of Law, told the Committee on Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity that surveillance pricing allows companies to figure out the highest price that customers are willing to pay. “This disastrous practice leads to price gouging, discrimination by proxy, an inability to budget, data hoarding and the suffocating feeling that every choice you make while shopping is a trap,” said Hartzog. “This bill would prohibit food stores from using tools like facial recognition to charge people different prices and provide vital breathing room for customers, while still allowing for people to receive discounts.” At the April hearing, Edgar Dworsky, a former assistant attorney general in consumer protection, questioned legislators’ concerns over surveillance pricing. He suggested that supermarkets would likely use expanded personal data to offer targeted discounts to shoppers -- rather than hitting them with steeper prices. “That would echo how supermarkets have used data gathered from loyalty programs to offer personalized discounts,” Dworsky wrote in written testimony. “Your bill, however, would prevent stores from using any biometric data collected to offer lower prices to identified shoppers,” continued Dworsky, who is also founder of Consumer World. “That strikes me as anti-consumer. If you are not banning the collection of biometric data to start with, why not simply prevent its use for the purpose of imposing higher than the standard or established price?” The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Massachusetts said that it supports the legislation but wants the protections to be expanded to all goods, not just food. “Prohibit surveillance-pricing generally, not just pricing driven by biometric surveillance,” the ACLU suggested in written testimony. “Charging different customers different prices for the same product based on a personal profile is problematic whether that profile is derived from a person’s biometrics or other personal data.” QUOTABLE QUOTES “Massachusetts is moving faster to create reasonably-priced housing and revitalize our downtowns. This new tax credit helps communities turn empty commercial space into homes – bringing people, energy and small-business customers back to main streets while tackling our housing shortage.” ---Gov. Maura Healey announcing $10 million in tax credits to help convert underused commercial buildings into residential and mixed-use housing across Massachusetts. “These grants invest in the police officers and firefighters who put their lives on the line to protect our communities. Recognizing the urgent needs faced by many departments, we were quickly able to adapt this year’s program, providing greater flexibility and immediate access to funds. These changes will have an immediate impact on public safety in Massachusetts communities.” ---Office of Grants and Research executive Director Kevin Stanton on awarding $5.7 million to cities and towns to support local fire and police staffing. “Ensuring that adequate remedial measures are in place to maintain a safe environment for student athletes of color during sporting events is impossible while the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) refuses to release records about its practices and protocols for addressing the rising number of discriminatory incidents.” ---Sophia Hall, Lawyers for Civil Rights Deputy Litigation Director, on filing a lawsuit against the MIAA seeking public records regarding incidents of discrimination, harassment and bullying at sporting events sponsored by the MIAA. “The commission amplifies the voices of women and girls, with commissioners shaping policy by studying key issues, advising on legislation and fostering collaboration across the commonwealth. We seek commissioners who reflect our commonwealth’s diversity and bring passion, expertise and collaboration to improve access to opportunities and equality for all.” ---Rep. Hannah Kane (R-Shrewsbury), announcing the seeking of applicants to serve on the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women - a state-established body charged with reviewing the status of women in Massachusetts and offering recommendations regarding policy that would improve access to opportunities and equality. The application deadline is Monday, September 15, 2025, at 5 p.m. More info at https://masscsw. org/ 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 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 August 18-22, the House met for a total of one hour and 25 minutes and the Senate met for a total of one hour and 27 minutes. M on . A u gu st 18House11:01 a.m. to 12:09 p.m. Senate 11:16 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. Tues.August 19No House session No Senate session Wed. August 20No House session No Senate session T hurs . A ugust 21House11:01 a.m. to 11:18a.m. Senate 11:06 a.m. to 11:39a.m. Fri. August 22No 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. - LEGAL NOTICE - COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS THE TRIAL COURT PROBATE AND FAMILY COURT Essex Division Docket No. ES25P1991EA Estate of: LILLIAN MAY DUNCAN Date of Death: May 22, 2025 INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE To all persons interested in the above captioned estate, by Petition of Petitioner Jean D. Lane of North Chesterfield, VA Jean D. Lane of North Chesterfield, VA 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 formal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner. 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