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SAUGUS AD Vol. 24, No. 8 -FREEBy Mark E. Vogler T he general fund and school operating budgets would increase by close to $4 million, according to the spending plans proposed by Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree for the 2022 Fiscal Year that begins July 1. The new operating budget for town government is $67.6-million – an increase of nearly $3.7 million over this year’s The Advocate–A household word in Saugus! OCDVOCATE CT www.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday Nearly a $4 million increase COVID-19 continues to impact the crafting of the town manager’s annual budget request Ready for Class $4 MILLION | SEE PAGE 2 budget; and the town manager’s proposed operating budget for Saugus Public Schools is about $29.9 million – $300,000 over the Fiscal Year 2021 budget approved by Town Meeting. Those are the preliminary operating budget estimates that Crabtree unveiled at last night’s Board of Selectmen’s meeting, as the budget process for the upcoming fi scal year offi cially kicked off . WELCOME BACK: Waybright Elementary School Principal Patricia Romano gave an elbow bump to third grader Liliana Fronduto. (Advocate Photo by Tara Vocino) By Tara Vocino S augus elementa r y school principals are excited to have students back for the fi rst time since March, as the first wave of students began returning yesterday on staggered schedules. Another wave of elemenProud mother Jennifer Dixon becomes emotional, as she wishes her son, Ryan, well on his fi rst day of third grade yesterday at Waybright Elementary School. (Saugus Advocate photo by Tara Vocino) tary school students was due to get their fi rst classroom experience today as Saugus Public Schools moved into the so-called Hybrid learning model – which allows two days of in-person learning a week, alternating with remote learning. Meanwhile, students in grades 6 through 12 are scheduled for their return to the classroom next Tuesday, March 2, at the Saugus Middle-High School complex. Saugus Public Schools Superintendent Dr. David DeRuosi, Jr. said in his Superintendent’s Special Report on Tuesday (Feb. 23) that “the ultimate goal is to bring all students back before the end of the School Year.” That may happen a lot sooner. Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Jeff rey Riley told state Department of Education offi cials this week that he wants to see all elementary school students learning in person fi ve days a week by April. He also said he plans to seek authority to eliminate remote and hybrid learning as options for school districts. BACK IN SCHOOL | SEE PAGE 9 ANGELO’S FULL SERVICE Regular Unleaded $2.519 Mid Unleaded $2.579 Super $2.679 Diesel Fuel $2.819 "42 Years of Excellence!" 1978-2020 KERO $4.65 DEF $3.49 9 Diesel $2.349 9 HEATING OIL 24-Hour Burner Service Call for Current Price! (125—gallon minimum) DEF Available by Pump! Open an account and order online at: www.angelosoil.com (781) 231-3500 (781) 231-3003 367 LINCOLN AVE • SAUGUS • OPEN 7 DAYS The town manager cited the COVID-19 pandemic as having a signifi cant impact in the crafting of his proposed budget. “As you may recall, the local receipt estimates for Fiscal Year 2021 were reduced by 10 percent due to the pandemic and the local aid estimates were reduced by 16 percent as the Commonwealth did not fi - nalize their budget until De781-233-4446 Friday, February 26, 2021 Back in School! Saugus elementary school principals welcome the start of in-person learning in the classroom; grades 6-12 return next week Prices subject to change Spring is around the Corner! FLEET

Page 2 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 Saugus native, Guam Emergency Planner awarded Civilian of the Year By Petty Officer 2nd Class Kelsey Hockenberger S ANTA RITA, Guam (Feb. 19, 2021) – Dr. Thomas Wall, a member of the Commander, Submarine Squadron 15 team, was recognized as the Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Senior Field Civilian of the Year in an awards ceremony held at Konetzni Hall, Feb 19. Wall, the Deputy Director of Emergency Planning for training at CSS-15, led the development, coordination, and execution of a highly successful training and exercise program that incorporated COVID-19 precautions into a diverse response organization involving more than 400 personnel both in and outside of Guam. “This award is a direct reflection of the work that our emergency planning team puts in daily,” said Wall, a native of Saugus, Mass. “I’m honored to be part of a successful program that continues to train Sailors and civilians at the tip of the spear.” Wall, a recognized expert in emergency planning, served as a key member of a corporate working group involving several shipyards, Naval Nu$4 MILLION | FROM PAGE 1 $2.25 cember 2020,” Crabtree wrote in his Feb. 15 letter to selectmen, which accompanied his preliminary budget. “The local estimate receipts remain at the same levels again in Fiscal Year 2022 to be conservative and the Governor has released the first round local aid estimates at this time,” the town manager wrote. In his letter, Crabtree recalled how the Coronavirus added to the uncertainty and challenges of preparing Dr. Thomas Wall Civilian Service Achievement Medal recipient a municipal budget. “As we have seen over the past several months circumstances can change dramatically affecting the budgetary estimates for revenue and expenditures,” the town manager wrote. “During the final preparation of the Fiscal Year 2021 estimated budget, we were three months into a pandemic, something none of us had experienced before,” he wrote. To minimize COVID-19’s impact on the budget and in order to stabilize services to town residents while maintaining current staffing levels, Crabtree noted that $2.4 million was appropriated from the town’s Stabilization Fund. But this action was taken with the understanding “that these funds would be replenished in order to not jeopardize our current AA-plus bond rating.” In December as the town prepared to set the tax rate, the results of the 2020 Fiscal Year were determined, the state’s local aid budget had been approved and the new growth for the town certified, a Special Town Meeting voted to rescind the earlier vote to withdraw from the Stabilization Fund while approving the use of $1.5 million from Free Cash. “As we prepared the Fiscal Year 2022 estimated revenue and expenditures budgets, many of the same concerns exist as when the Fiscal Year 2021 budget was approved,” Crabtree said in his budget message to selectmen. “The pandemic continues, revenues have not returned to levels prior to the pandemic as economic recovery continues, and the fixed cost increases and contractual obligations have absorbed the Proposition 2 ½ and new growth projections,” he said. “In this budget, Town departmental estimates are recommended at levels equal to or less than FY20 appropriations amounts with the exception of fixed costs and contractual obligations,” he said. “As a result, to balance the Fiscal Year 2022 budget, maintaining current services to the residents and preventing reductions to staffing through layoffs, the recommendation is to use $1,400,000 from reserves.” Crabtree noted that his recommended operating budget for the School Department is $29.9 million – an increase of $300,000 of the current budget approved by Town Meeting. It is also less than the $30,073,439 recommended by Saugus Public Schools Superintendent Dr. David DeRuosi, Jr., who also noted that a level funded budget for the 2022 Fiscal Year should be $31.7 million. But Crabtree stressed that the $300,000 increase he clear Laboratory, and Naval Reactors headquarters. His work ensured strengthened relationships between the U.S. Navy and Government of Guam. “Tom has been an integral part of the planning and response team here for six years,” said Capt. Bret Grabbe, commodore of Commander, Submarine Squadron 15. “His efforts have positively contributed to our emergency preparedness and have ensured our readiness across a full range of real world events. Wall received the Civilian Service Achievement Medal. was recommending for the School Department “does not include the indirect costs paid by the Town on behalf of the School Department and included as part of the total Net School Spending (NSS) calculation required by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).” “For Fiscal Year 2019 according to DESE based on actual expenditures for the Town is 49.25 percent over the required school spending,” the town manager wrote in his budget message. In his letter to selectmen, Crabtree cited these “challenges” in preparing the estimates of expenditures in next year’s budget: Health Insurance: The rates have not been finalized by the provider. “We have made a conservative estimate based on the current enrollment. We will have to revisit our estimate later in the budget cycle.” Trash hauling and incineration has been increasing at a concerning rate over the last couple of years. “In addition, due to the challenges in the recycling industry involving specifically China, the cost of disposal of recyclable materials is on the rise. We continue to monitor this budget for any fluctuations due to the pandemic and will consider making adjustments later in the budget cycle.” Pension Contribution: “The pension appropriation increase of $454,589 for a total payment in Fiscal Year 2022 of $7,656,719 is based on a funding prepared by PERAC (Public Employees Retirement Administration Commission) to fully fund the pension obliga$4 MILLION | SEE PAGE 5

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 Page 3 ~ THE ADVOCATE ASKS ~ Superintendent’s Search Comm. Chair discusses special panel that will guide School Comm. in selecting next superintendent Editor’s Note: For this week’s column, we interviewed School Committee Vice-Chair Ryan Fisher, who was selected by his colleagues to chair the Superintendent’s Search Committee. Fisher, 40, is a lifetime Saugus resident who is completing his first twoyear term on the School Committee. He served one term as a Town Meeting member representing Precinct 9 before finishing as the second top vote getter among School Committee candidates in the 2019 town elections. He is a 1999 graduate of St. John’s Prep in Danvers. He received a bachelor’s degree in political science from Merrimack College in 2003 and a master’s degree in business administration from Salem State University in 2008. He is the program coordinator for the Massachusetts Sex Offender Registry Board. He and his wife Danielle – who is a pastry chef – have a fiveyear-old daughter, Ella. Highlights of this week’s interview follow. Q: I understand your late father has been a big inspiration for you? A: Yes. He was from Revere. He was a public school teacher at Revere High School for 18 years. He worked there, but moved to Saugus in the 1970s. Q: He was your inspiration for running for School Committee, or was Ella’s future? A: Both. He was never afraid to get involved and knew how to make a good argument. He was an English teacher for 18 years but was pretty good at the arguing thing so went to law school at night when I was a kid. I try to emulate him, often without realizing it. I got involved when not a lot of people were throwing their names into the hat. If I could complain about the need for new voices, I didn’t have an excuse. Q: It was about five years ago that the Saugus School Committee initiated an extensive search for a new School Superintendent. As chair of the current search committee, you have had a chance to do some research on how it was done. What did you like most about that search, and what elements do you think might be incorporated in the current one? A: One thing the last search committee did really well was they involved a professional, expert agent and really listened to their advice, and another was mitment. We’re going to have a number of meetings and interviews that we’ll be asking everyone to participate in to make the search fair for all the applicants. Q: What is the timetable for having the search committee assembled? A: We’d like to have the search committee set up before the ASKS | SEE PAGE 4 Top Rated by CARF International. Caregiver Support Solutions Do you need help caring for a loved one at home? Learn about our MassHealth program for adults with disabilities or chronic illnesses age 18 and older. • Financial Support. • Professional Support. • Dedicated Home Team. A SAUGUS FAMILY MAN: School Committee Vice-Chair Ryan Fisher, right, his wife Danielle, left, with their daughter Ella, 5, in front of the Oaklandvale Elementary School. Fisher says his daughter’s educational future – possibly in Saugus Public Schools – motivates him to find the best possible candidate to replace Superintendent Dr. David DeRuosi, Jr., when he retires June 30, at the end of the current school year. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) they truly involved community and stakeholder feedback every step of the way. We want to keep this search aboveboard and transparent and include feedback from the entire community. The community is going to help craft a profile of the superintendent it wants, and that’s going to guide the entire selection process. The last search committee left us a great roadmap. Q: The search committee five years ago consisted of 23 members. What will be the size of the one this time? What will be the composition of the committee? What will be the methodology for selecting the committee? A: The full School Committee will be meeting on Thursday the 25th in public session to iron out the composition of the search committee, and then we’ll look for applicants willing to serve. We’ll meet again in the following week or two to approve the appointments. I’d imagine we’ll have fewer than 23 this time, and it may shift a bit if we have applicants who check a number of boxes. Q: If Saugus residents are interested in serving, what should they do? What will the committee be looking for in applicants? A: By the time this article is published, we’ll probably have just decided this and will be releasing information on social media and through the district, but those interested can reach out to myself or Dennis Gould and we’ll direct you. Our emails are up on the district website. What I can answer right now is we’ll be looking for a diverse group of members who are willing to make a temporary but firm time comGerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law Is Your Estate in Order? Do you have an update Will, Health Care Proxy or Power of Attorney? If Not, Please Call for a Free Consultation. 14 Proctor Avenue, Revere (781) 284-5657 Call for a free evaluation today. 978-281-2612 AdultFosterCareNS.com

Page 4 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 ASKS | FROM PAGE 3 third week in March, for a first meeting at the beginning of April. Q: What is the target date to begin interviewing candidates? A: We’re looking to begin initial interviews by the second week in April. Q: What is the target date for the full School Committee to begin interviewing finalists for the position and the target date for hiring somebody to replace Dr. David DeRuosi, Jr.? A: Ideally, we’d look to start finalist interviews by the second week in May and select a superintendent by the end of May. Q: How much of a role, if any, will the superintendent play in the search for his replacement? A: Dr. DeRuosi is being enormously helpful behind the scenes. He’s had numerous conversations with our search agent, giving the lay of the land and supplying a lot of institutional knowledge about the district, as well as making staff and district resources available. We didn’t have to ask him for anything. He jumped right out there and asked how he could help. Giving us advance notice of his retirement let us get a big head start, but all his technical assistance along the way is really invaluable. I’m sure I’m going to have a million questions for him before this is over. Q: Will there be focus groups in the community like there were five years ago? A: Absolutely – there will be seven focus groups each targeting different stakeholder groups, all of which will be virtual due to COVID. I want to stress that we’re going to be making online surveys available to all stakeholders, whether they be students, parents, faculty, administrators, residents, etc., and we’ll be asking a lot of the same questions. I’d encourage everyone to take a few minutes and participate. This information is important to help craft the profile of our ideal superintendent. When we surveyed parents about their thoughts on hybrid versus remote earlier in the fall, we collected a lot of detailed, specific information. I’m looking forward to the same happening again between the focus groups and the surveys. Q: How extensive a search is being conducted to fill the superintendent's position? Would this be considered a national search? One School Committee member called the one conducted five years ago “the most comprehensive and inclusive search” ever conducted for a Saugus school administrator. A: Our search agent is the New www.eight10barandgrille.com We Have Reopened for Dine-In and Outside Seating every day beginning at 4 PM England School Development Council, which obviously has members of the National School Development Council and have recruiting reach and relationships with colleges and university placement offices as well as superintendent and school board associations throughout the country. I’d say it’s a national search with very strong regional ties. Anyone interested is going to know about the position. I’d echo that School Committee member’s comments as well, and hope the same will be said about our search. Q: Anything else that you OPTIMISTIC ABOUT SMOOTH TRANSITION: School Committee Vice-Chair Ryan Fisher says he is hopeful of hiring a new school superintendent about a month before Dr. David DeRuosi, Jr. officially retires. Fisher, who chairs the Superintendent’s Search Committee, said his goal is to have the finalist interviews start by the second week in May and select a superintendent by month’s end. (Saugus Advocate file photo by Mark E. Vogler) strong ties to member districts throughout the New England region, as well as New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. They’re would like to share about the superintendent’s search committee? A: I’d like to clarify what it is! The most important role of a school committee is employing a superintendent to lead the district forward. The search committee members, myself and Dennis Gould included, are all appointed by the School Committee to work with our agent to prepare the interview process, interview and screen preliminary applicants and send the finalists back to the full School Committee for public interviews and a public vote. It’s a few weeks of important, thankless work, and I’m appreciative to all those who will participate in this important process on behalf of the district! THIS WEEK ON SAUGUS TV Sunday, February 28 at 9 to 11 p.m. on Channel 8 – “Sunday Night Stooges” (The Three Stooges). Monday, March 1 all day on Channel 8 – “Movie Monday” (classic movies). Tuesday, March 2 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 9 – Board of Selectmen Meeting from February 23. Wednesday, March 3 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 22 – SHS Girls Basketball vs. Gloucester from February 16. Thursday, March 4 at 7 p.m. on Channel 9 – Planning Board Meeting ***live***. Friday, March 5 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 9 – Board of Health Meeting from March 1. Saturday, March 6 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 22 – SHS Girls Basketball vs. Winthrop from WE'RE OPEN! 8 Norwood Street, Everett (617) 387-9810 Aluminum Everett 10 Everett Ave., Everett 617-389-3839 Owned & operated by the Conti family since 1958 • 62 Years! “Same name, phone number & address for over half a century. We must be doing something right!” Owned & operated by the Conti family since 1958 • 57 Years! family since 1958 • 60 •Vinyl Siding •Carpentry Work •Decks •Vinyl Siding •Vinyl Siding •Free Estimates •Fully Licensed •Roofng •Free Estimates •Carpentry Work •Fully Licensed •Decks •Fully Licensed ng •Roo ng • Fully Insured • Fully Insured • Replacement Windows www.everettaluminum.com Now’s the time to schedule those home improvement projects you’ve been dreaming about all winter! Everett Aluminum STAY SAFE! February 15. 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THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 Page 5 Replacing DeRuosi The search for a new superintendent of Saugus Public Schools has begun S augus Public Schools Superintendent Dr. David DeRuosi, Jr. has committed to finishing out the current school year to help provide a smooth transition for his replacement. The search for candidates began officially last week as the New England School Development Council – the firm that was hired to consult the School Committee on its search – posted an ad inviting candidates to apply for DeRuosi’s job. “The Town of Saugus is a family-friendly town of about 28,000 residents located along the North Shore, just ten miles north of Boston and within short driving distances of the beautiful Massachusetts coastline and the vacation areas of Cape Cod and New Hampshire,” the ad declares. “The district serves 2,500 students in three well-appointed schools with state-of-theart technology in every classroom: the newly opened Saugus Middle-High School complex, a 271,000 square foot, $4 MILLION | FROM PAGE 2 tion by 2026.” Regional School Assessments: “Vocational education, inclusive of Northeast Regional Vocational, Essex North Shore Tech. and (new in FY21) Medford Public Schools is budgeted for $3,625,000 based on estimated numbers provided by DESE on our minimum required contribution. “...Additionally, Northeast Regional Vocational School has been approved for a school construction project with the Massachusetts School Building Authority in the amount of $318,000,000. The cost to the Town of Saugus is estimated at $2.2-million over the life of the loan based on the current reimbursement rate that has been approved by the MSBA and Saugus will begin to be assessed our share once construction is underway.” Other insurance: “The various property, liability and workers compensation insurance premium estimates have been budgeted based on an increase of 8 percent over actual fiscal year 2021 premiums recommended by the provider. This includes an increase on the premium for the Middle School/High School ComSTEAM-focused facility for Saugus’ 1,300 Grades 6-12 students; a Grades 2-5 STEAM Academy; and a PK-1 Early Learning Center. All building projects will be completed by the start of the 2021-2022 school year.” “For additional information, please visit: www.saugus.k12. ma.us” “The next Superintendent of Saugus Public Schools must be an academic leader who focuses on student achievement and performance, supplemented with a healthy balance of social/emotional, athletic, fine arts and community service opportunities,” the ad continues. “The new leader must be dedicated to implementing curriculum and instruction that provide for a wide range of student needs and incorporate the perspectives of a diverse school community. Candidates must demonstrate a deep understanding of and appreciation for classroom teaching and professional develplex. The premiums will not be finalized until sometime in the spring.” Crabtree noted that the estimated fixed costs mentioned didn’t take into consideration contractual wage adjustments. He added that all collective bargaining agreements have been funded. “In preparation for this or opment, as well as a commitment to building-based leadership and a team approach to system wide responsibilities,” it continues. “Evidence of success in raising achievement for all students and maintaining and enhancing successful community outreach and involvement is necessary, as is a working knowledge of school budgeting, operations, efficiencies, and accountability. Some of the challenges and opportunities facing the new Superintendent include improving the academic performance of ALL students, particularly at the middle and high school levels; making Saugus Public Schools the first educational choice for all Saugus families; and successfully implementing the new threeschool-building organization (PK-1, 2-5, and 6-12) for improved instructional effectiveness and efficiency. “Successful experience as a superintendent is preferred, but not required. A graduate degree in a relevant field is any other budget, there are concerns that can vary and may change due to circumstances that occur during the fiscal year,” Crabtree wrote. “Some items that continue to be a concern are building maintenance, utilities, motor fuel, waste collection and recycling, vehicle maintenance and health insurance.” required; a doctorate is preferred but not required. Licensure or eligibility for licensure as a superintendent of schools in Massachusetts is required. The Saugus School District is prepared to provide a multiyear contract with a regionally competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with qualifications and experience. “Interested candidates should contact: Dr. Donald J. Beaudette, Search Consultant, Saugus Superintendent Search, New England School Development Council, 28 Lord Road, Marlborough, MA 01752; 508-481-9444 (phone); search@nesdec.org (email) “It is anticipated that applications will be reviewed beginning March 29, 2021, with interviews scheduled shortly thereafter. The starting date is July 1, 2021 “To download an application or for more information, please visit: www.nesdec.org (http:// www.nesdec.org/executive_ search/currentsearches.aspx)” SNOW BLOWER SALES, SERVICE & REPAIRS Pickup/Delivery Available 1039 BROADWAY, REVERE 781-289-6466 781-289-6466 WWW.BIKERSOUTFITTER.COM WWW.BIKERSOUTFITTER.COM

Page 6 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 Local church community hosts winter clothing drive for needy families By Tara Vocino C ommunity members pitched in to donate winter items for those in need at the First Congregational Church on Saturday morning. “I’m so grateful that the church and the community came together for the most vulnerable in town,” Deacon Terri Leander, the event organizer, said. They donated hundreds of new, handmade and like new/ laundered winter accessories, such as hats, gloves and scarfs, and toiletries, for Saugus families with younger people in need ages 0 to 21. William Sutton Masonic Lodge Worship Master Todd Galarneau, whose lodge members donated toiletries and winter gear, said times are tough. “There’s no better way than to lend materials and to lend a hand,” Galarneau said. Board of Selectmen Member Debra Panetta, who drycleaned her daughter Sabrina’s old clothes as donated items, said the Coronavirus pandemic has changed the way the world operates. “We’re always told to be together and that communication is key,” Panetta said. “However, being kind is most Pictured from left to right, holding up some donations, are William Sutton Masonic Lodge Worshipful Master Todd Galarneau, Lodge Senior Warden Richard Miller, Second Lady Michelle Miller, Board of Selectmen Member Debra Panetta, First Congregational Church Outreach Committee Member Cassandra Roy, Outreach Committee Member Ann Kennedy (at bottom) and First Congregational Church Deacon Terri Leander. (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) important right now.” Church member Ann KenPictured from left to right, displaying some donations, are William Sutton Masonic Lodge Worshipful Master Todd Galarneau, Junior Warden Steven Burke, Senior Warden Richard Miller and Chaplain Mahmoud Diab during Saturday morning’s winter clothing drive at First Congregational Church. AUTOTECH 1989 SINCE CA$H FOR YOUR CAR! DRIVE IT - PUSH IT - TOW IT! Cold Hard Cash For Your Car, Truck or SUV! 2008 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 4X4 Crew Cab, Z71 Package, Just Serviced, Clean Title, Only 126K Miles, Warranty! TRADES WELCOME! $11,900 Easy Financing Available! EddiesAutotech.com 2010 MERCURY MILAN 4-Door, Auto., Most Power Options, Clean Title, New Tires, Only 130K Miles, Runs & Drives Great, Warranty! TRADES WELCOME! $3,995 781-321-8841 1236 EasternAve • Malden We Pay Cash For Your Vehicle! Why not Saugus? Selectmen lobby Gov. Charlie Baker to locate a mass vaccine site for COVID-19 in town By Mark E. Vogler T he Commonwealth of Massachusetts currently has six mass vaccination sites across the state. Saugus selectmen say Gov. Charlie Baker should add a seventh – in Saugus. Board of Selectmen Vice-Chair Corinne Riley pitched the idea at Tuesday night’s (Feb. 23) Board of Selectmen meeting – and she drew unanimous support from her colleagues, who directed her to write a letter making the request to the Baker Administration. Riley said Saugus residents shouldn’t have to drive to a mass vaccine site at Fenway Park. “I would love to get something that’s closer to people who live in our town,” Riley said. There are currently six mass vaccination sites across the WHY NOT SAUGUS | SEE PAGE 13 Hundreds of winter items are available for Saugus families in need. William Sutton Masonic Lodge Worshipful Master Todd Galarneau displays the many pairs of shoes donated by Lodge members. nedy, a breast cancer survivor, said it has changed her outlook on life. “I’m so thankful for all that I have, so I wanted to give back,” said Kennedy, who recalled that when donors came in the last two weeks it was almost like a normal day, even though everyone was masked. Leander said she sees so much potential with what they started Saturday but knows the end isn’t in sight. Church members are in discussion with the Masons about doing a back-to-school supply drive in the late summer and doing a “Giving Boutique” again and including the back-to-school supplies and fall/winter clothing, personal hygiene products, etc., making the items available to families in town. “By lifting up the least of these, all are lifted up,” Leander said. “[I will] get to know them, lead them to where they are wanted and loved, and cared for as Beloved Children of God.” For information, call 781233-3028 to arrange an appointment to pick up donations.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 Page 7 Saugus Babe Ruth sign-ups underway augus Babe Ruth is currently holding sign-ups for the 2021 season online, running until March 15. Saugus Babe Ruth offers Saugus 13 to 15 year olds the opportunity to play competitive baseball for a $150 signup fee. All games will be played at World Series Park starting April 17 and ending July 1. April 17 will be opening day for World Series Park and will include an opening ceremony, throwing out of the first pitch and $1 hot S dogs at the snack bar. “We’re anxious to start playing baseball for the 2021 season,” Saugus Babe Ruth President Bob Gratiano said. “We hope to sign up a lot of players. The more players we get, the more teams we’ll have and the more games we’ll be able to play. This season we’re excited to participate in interREADY FOR SOME BASEBALL: The Saugus Babe Ruth All-Star team is shown lined up before the start of a Babe Ruth State Tournament game at World Series Park several years ago. (Courtesy Photo to The Saugus Advocate) city-play, playing other Babe Ruth teams from surrounding communities,” Gratiano said. To sign up, go to clubs.blue“Please have patience …” Saugus Health Dept. will offer limited doses of COVID-19 vaccine; targets town’s high-risk population (Editor’s Note: The following info is from a press release issued by the Town Manager’s Office to brief Saugus residents on the limited availability of the COVID-19 Moderna Vaccine.) O n February 19, 2021, Town Manager Scott Crabtree announced that the Saugus Health Department would “offer opportunities for Saugus residents to receive the COVID-19 Moderna vaccination. “ The Health Depar t - ment has very limited doses of Moderna vaccines but wants to get them administered to the high risk population of Saugus residents as they become available. The Health Department is asking for everyone’s patience during this local process. Unfortunately, the Health Department has not yet been provided access to the state’s online scheduling vendor software that the Town was promised for its residents. Therefore, the process will be to have residents call the Saugus Health Department for these limited available vaccine appointments. Residents will need proof of Saugus residency and other eligibility when an appointment is scheduled. The Health Department will take your information and call you back with a date, time, and place for an appointment. Again, there are a very limited amount of vaccines available at the Town level and you are encouraged to schedule through the state vaccine site. “Currently, Saugus residents have a variety of opportunities to receive the vaccine which includes limited Town operated clinics, some healthcare providers, some pharmacies, and the state operated regional distribution sites. The Commonwealth is phasing into directing residents of Massachusetts to obtain their vaccination through the state operated distribution vaccine sites. PATIENCE | SEE PAGE 17 sombrero.com/saugusbaberuth. Information is also available on the Saugus Babe Ruth Facebook page. For more information about Saugus Babe Ruth and how someone can sign up, contact Bob Gratiano at 781520-0536 or email bob507@ comcast.net. Saugus Youth Soccer Association Registration for our G-4 thru G-8 Spring Travel programs is now open. Please register your son or daughter at saugusyouthsoccer.com The cost for the season is $150 and does not include the uniform cost. Please contact Mike Bluette at bluette4@comcast.net for more information or if you have any questions. We can help you buy a house. So you can create a home. WHETHER YOU’RE READY TO BUY OR REFINANCE, WE’LL GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE WHOLE PROCESS. TALK TO ONE OF OUR RESIDENTIAL LENDERS TODAY. 617-381-3663 419 BROADWAY, EVERETT MA 02149 61 7-38 7 - 1 1 10 7 7 1 SALEM ST, LYNNFIELD, MA 01940 7 8 1 - 7 7 6 - 4444 WWW.EVERETTBANK .COM NMLS #443050 Member FDIC Member DIF

Page 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 The Great Storm T By The Old Sachem, Bill Stewart he recent snowstorms brought back memories of the snow period in ’78. That year, after the storm subsided, we went food shopping to Cogliano’s Market on Lincoln Avenue, pulling a sled to bring the food home. The governor had declared an emergency and the streets were not clear for automoLaw Offices of Terrence W. Kennedy 512 Broadway, Everett • Criminal Defense • Personal Injury • Medical Malpractice Tel: (617) 387-9809 Cell: (617) 308-8178 twkennedylaw@gmail.com biles. It was a great time for the kids: no school and plenty of snow to frolic in. It was February in 1978 and the college Beanpot Hockey time. My wife’s aunt Millen was given four complimentary tickets to the Harvard game where her son played against Northeastern University (NU), and she only needed two tickets. Tickets to the Beanpot allow you to attend both games. Knowing I was a BU grad, she offered the two extras to me that I could use to see the BU contest against BC. I gratefully answered “YES!” and I thanked God for my great luck. A little background about our family and the Boston Garden. Randy Millen still held the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association High School record of over 200 goals in his four years at Easton High School on the South Shore. My son, Mike Stewart, was to achieve his MIAA record of scoring three consecutive game-winning overtime goals. I have two degrees from BU – a Bachelor’s in Engineering and a Master’s in Business – and cheered the Terriers on via TV often, but this was to be my first Beanpot in person. I have been to the Boston Garden for high school tournament games – my son Bob played in the quarterfinals – but my BU games were limited to Agganis Arena, the BU home rink, where I and my sons went to the games where alumni could buy special tickets. We had the tickets two weeks before we were going to see BU play, and the weather reports got worse daily. By the night of the game, I decided that Mike and I would take the bus to Boston because the storm would make driving and parking difficult. So, we boarded the bus in Saugus and on to Boston. We arrived at Haymarket Square and trudged through light snow down Canal Street to the Garden, received our tickets from the reservation window and proceeded to our seats. Naturally we were in the middle of the Harvard seats and were looked down in disgust by Crimson fans each time we cheered for NU, where my son, Will, graduated from. But to be fair we also cheered when Randy made a good play. About the middle of the third period, the announcer blurted out that those who had a short trip home should leave now. The thousand who remained would be able to stay the night in the Garden and return home in the morning. Mike and I stayed to see the whole BU game; we were not about to leave because of a little snow. After the BU win, we left for Haymarket Station to get a bus home to Saugus. We waded through snow and slush to the bus and were lucky enough to catch the last bus to Salem via Route 107. Things started well but at the Revere Circle the rear end of the bus skidded off the roadway. The driver, seeing more than a dozen aboard, asked if we would push the bus back to the road. The group huffed and puffed to get the bus back, and we were once again on our way home. We then got off the bus at Ballard Street and plunged through slush and snow with water almost up to our knees, homeward, up Ballard Street, the small section of Chestnut Street, on to Winter Street, turning left to Willis up to the intersection of Springdale, then up to Grandview and home, wet and tired, after 2 a.m. My family’s association with Boston Garden is among my greatest memories. The year before Randy and Harvard, my son Bob played for Saugus in the Division I Tournament losing to, I believe, Canton in the quarterfinal. Two years later Mike’s line with Scotty Brazis and Paul Nigro were the State Scoring Line champions and brought Saugus to the State semifinal only to lose the Northern Championship to St. John’s Prep with Bobby Carpenter. Mike got his MIAA record which still remains, scoring the sudden death overtime goals in three consecutive games. My next family State Tournament game in the Garden was my granddaughter Kerri McKinnon’s, who was on the St. Mary’s Girls Team that won the State Championship. My family advancement from quarter finals to semifinals to championship will always be in my memory. So, too, will our struggle of the Great Storm be with me and Mike forever. Local doctors attempt to quell fears about COVID-19 vaccines By Christopher Roberson or more than an hour, a panel of infectious disease specialists fielded a flurry of calls from residents with concerns regarding the COVID-19 vaccines during a virtual Town Hall discussion on February 24. Dr. Ilona Goldfarb of Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) spoke about concerns that the vaccines could negatively affect women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Although no major studies were conducted to test the vaccines in those patients, she said, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s leading infectious disF ease specialist, reported that the vaccines have been given to 10,000 women nationwide who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Thus far, there have been no documented complications noted by the federal Food and Drug Administration. Goldfarb also said there is no evidence that the vaccines cause miscarriages or decrease fertility. “The COVID vaccine seems like a very safe choice,” she said. In addition, Goldfarb said no part of the virus is put into the vaccines. “The COVID vaccine is not a live vaccine; no one is going to get COVID by getting the vaccine.” Saugonians named to Dean’s List at University of Maine O RONO, Maine – Saugus residents Mackenzie Hughes and Brina Panetta were named to the Dean’s List at the University of Maine for the fall 2020 semester. To be eligible for the Dean’s List, students must have a grade point average of 3.5 or higher. Dr. Sandra Nelson of MGH encouraged residents to get vaccinated even if they already had the virus, adding that after symptoms subside patients can wait 90 days to get the shots. Yet, she acknowledged the possibility of side effects, particularly after the second inoculation. “The rate of side effects are a little bit higher after the second dose,” said Nelson. She also said the most common side effect has been soreness in the arm where the vaccine was administered. She also said residents should continue to wear masks after they receive the vaccines. “We know that some people who acquire this virus never get sick,” said Nelson. Dr. Paige Wickner of Brigham and Women’s Hospital said there is nothing in the vaccines that would trigger a reaction from someone with a food allergy. “These vaccines are safe, even for people with food allergies,” she said.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 Page 9 BACK IN SCHOOL | FROM PAGE 1 Cohorts as an answer to COVID-19 Meanwhile, Saugus Public Schools has embarked on a plan for getting students back into the classroom – but in smaller groups called cohorts. The district is well prepared for how cohorts will operate. Students – across all elementary schools – are split into cohorts A and B for “in person” learning, and there is a cohort of students who have elected to remain fully remote, according to Lynnhurst Elementary School Principal Michael Mondello. Cohort A students will be “in person” on Tuesday and Thursday. Cohort B students will be “in person” on Wednesday and Friday. All students who are learning remotely will acStaff welcome their students back to school. Shown in the bottom row, from left to right, are Principal Patti Romano, third grade teachers Jennifer Nicolo and Jessica Logrippo and first grade teachers Ashley Giuffrida and Allie Grossman. Shown in the top row, from left to right, are secretary Shannon Burke, second grade teacher Catherine Fish, fifth grade teacher Linda Gauthier, paraprofessional Mary Pierce, fifth grader Marissa Perino, second grader Julie Serino and kindergarten teacher Julie Covey. Missing from photo are fourth grade teacher Brigitte Vaudo, special education teacher Lorraine Devine, school adjustment counselor Janee Tichy and school nurse Erin LeDrew. Principal Patricia Romano elbow bumped third grader Riley Anderson outside of Douglas Waybright School on Thursday. First grader Maryam Badda was all smiles. Shown from left to right are school nurse Erin LeDrew and custodian Elizabeth Polanco setting up balloons in the lobby before school opens early Thursday morning. cess their classroom, each day, through Google Meet, and will learn synchronously from home. Students will go home on their “in person” days with a grab-and-go lunch, and then all students will log back into their classroom for a fully remote afternoon session between 1:30 and 2 p.m. About 75 percent of students, or 200, will return to in-person learning with 25 percent, or 70 students, opting to remain fully remote at home, Mondello wrote in an email Wednesday. At Oaklandvale Elementary School, according to Interim Principal Maureen Lueke, 147 students chose to return to school while 87 will remain remote. A challenge that Lueke anticipates is helping children to return to their routine and to be comfortable with pandemic protocols. However, at long last, a reunion is in store. “The kids and teachers will be happy to finally see each other in person,” Lueke said Wednesday in a telephone interview. Principals focused on Hybrid model As to how Lueke feels about the State Education Commissioner’s goal to have all grade school students in person five days/week by April, she said it requires everyone to be flexible and supportive, but that it’s premature to plan. Mondello echoed a similar sentiment. “The easiest part for us will be to remember why we teach and to welcome the students back into our classrooms with a smile and with enthusiasm after being apart for so long,” Mondello said excitingly. As far as how he feels about the State Education Commissioner’s goal to have all grade school students in person five days/week by April, Mondello said they are focused on what they can control, which is bringing students back in a hybrid model, ensuring they feel safe and supported, and delivering a high-quality model of instruction for all learners. At Waybright Elementary School, 134 students, or 72 percent of the student body, will be returning in person while 75 pupils chose to stay at home. The district asked parents in a winter survey which option they prefer. According to Waybright Principal Patricia Romano, students had a grin from ear-toear when they were in the Fifth grader Anthony Fraser showed off in his new backpack inside the school. (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) building for English Language Learner testing. “Children learn best by being in school,” Romano said Wednesday in a telephone interview. “We’re all so excited.” The biggest challenge that Romano anticipates is staffing during the COVID-19 vaccination period since teachers may feel ill after receiving the shot. She may have to remote some classes in April, depending on the severity of symptoms. As to how she feels about the State Education Commissioner’s goal to have all grade school students in person five days/week by April, Romano said she’d love for that to happen but realizes it does pose some challenges. She is attending a meeting next week regarding the matter. Romano thanked staff, specialists and food workers for their teamwork during remote learning, and she predicts a smooth transition to hybrid learning.

Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS By Mark E. Vogler H ere are a few tidbits that you might want to know about this week in Saugus. A food drive tomorrow Board of Selectmen Vice-Chair Corinne Riley wants to remind Saugus residents of an important, upcoming food drive “The Town of Saugus, organized by the Board of Selectmen, has scheduled a much needed drop-off food and necessities drive to benefit the Saugus Senior Center and the Saugus Food Pantry, on Saturday, February 27th from 10 a.m. to noon at the Saugus Senior Center, 466 Central St. If inclement weather, it will be held the following Saturday, March 6th, same time. “All items are appreciated, but items that are most needed are small individual boxes of cereal as well as full size boxes of cereal, oatmeal, canned fruit, bread, canned tuna fish, soup, hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes, toilet paper, sanitizer, shelf stable milk, snacks/crackers, peanut butter, jelly, canned vegetables, canned spaghetti sauce, pasta and macaroni and cheese. “This food drive will be missing Wendy Reed, who was the Director of the Saugus United Parish Food Pantry. There are many great people who volunteer their time for those in need, and although Wendy will be sorely missed, this work will continue to help those in our community who have fallen on hard times.” If you feel like doing something to honor Wendy’s memory, this is that type of event. (Wendy died of an apparent heart attack on Feb. 5 at the age of 57.) Riley told fellow selectmen at Tuesday night’s (Feb. 23) meeting that the food bank “is very depleted.” “Building a Better Saugus” Saugus selectmen were happy to reappoint Ken Scourtas to a second term on the Saugus Cultural Council. How could they not be after receiving his inspiring letter: “My vision of building a better Saugus has always centered around the creation of a dynamic community with an inclusive feel. ‘Townies’ will have a place to be proud of, and ‘outsiders’ would want to join this place. A balance, a vision. “It all starts with ‘what we do’, and continues to ‘how we do it’ until we reach the goal. Much has changed over the last year, and … we can change with it!” This commission is out of commission It sure looks like the town’s Commission on Disability could use some help. “As of today’s date, we have not had a meeting for some time or the following reasons,” Marion Dawicki began in a recent letter to the Board of Selectmen. “First of all, our chairman Kathy Forbes passed away and she has not been replaced,” wrote Dawicki, who is the commission’s secretary. “Second, due to the Coronavirus. Members of this Commission: myself, Marion Dawicki, Kevin [Currie] and Steve Rich. We could certainly use help in recruiting new members as well as a new chairman,” Dawicki wrote. Kathy Forbes died on Dec. 6, 2018. But her name and telephone number remain on the commission’s page posted on the town website. The website also notes that the commission should have no less than five members. So, essentially the Commission on Disability has been out of commission for more than two years. If there are any residents out there who like to help make the commission viable again, contact the Board of Selectmen or the Town Manager’s Office. The Commission on Disability plays an important role in Saugus, promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of community life. Commission members have the responsibility for advising and assisting town officials with compliance to federGUESS WHO GOT SKETCHED! In this week’s edition, we continue our weekly feature where a local artist sketches people, places and things in Saugus. Got an idea who’s being sketched this week? If you do, please email me at mvoge@comcast.net or leave a phone message at 978-683-7773. Anyone who between now and Tuesday at noon correctly identifies the Saugonian being sketched qualifies to have their name put in a hat with a chance to be selected as the winner of a $10 gift certificate, compliments of Dunkin’ at the 1204 Broadway Saugus location on Route 1 North. But you have to enter to win! Look for the winner and identification in next week’s “The Sounds of Saugus.” Please leave your mailing address in case you are a winner. (Courtesy illustration to The Saugus Advocate by a Saugonian who goes by the name of “The Sketch Artist”) al and state disability laws. They also assist local disability advocates with technical assistance, advocacy and disability-related matters They are supposed to monitor the town’s compliance with requirements of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. Surely, this commission needs to be back in commission, sooner rather than later. February’s “frequent flyers” I can still remember about 17 years ago this month, driving around the city of Lawrence with another reporter under miserable, wintry conditions to conduct what we expected would be adversarial interviews with city residents who made a lot of money off of car accidents. While involved in a year-long investigation into auto insurance fraud, I had gotten my hands on an insurance industry document which listed the names and addresses of Lawrence people who had been identified as “frequent flyers” – those with five or more auto insurance claims in 10 years. More than 50 Lawrence residents fit that profile. And at least 17 of them recorded 10 or more claims over the span of a decade. The checklist of “frequent flyers” that I and a fellow reporter for The Eagle-Tribune used came from the Detailed Claims Database – a computerized inventory of every claim filed in the state since 1994. The amazing thing about the two weeks I spent with co-worker Shawn Boburg, who is now an investigative reporter at The Washington Post, is how productive we were driving around for two weeks and actually getting comments from people who had suspicious insurance claims history. They gave personal insight on how easy it was to profit off what had become a cottage industry in Lawrence known as auto insurance fraud. Sure, some of the “frequent flyers” we approached were hostile towards us. But there were a few who invited us into their living rooms and were quite willing to tell us how they made thousands of dollars off claims that the insurance industry might consider suspicious. The stories these people told added another dimension to our series titled “At Fault: Inside the Culture of Auto Insurance Fraud.” The series sparked a grand jury investigation, which led to the indictment of several lawyers and chiropractors. And then-Gov. Mitt Romney credited the stories with helping to pass legislation that made it illegal for lawyers and chiropractors to pay “runners” to solicit customers involved in fraudulent auto claims. We’ve altered the rules for “Sketch” contest The person who goes by the name of “The Sketch Artist” recommends that the winner of our weekly “Guess Who Got Sketched” contest have their name drawn from a hat instead of being selected for being the first one to call or email with the correct answer. The artist also has noticed that some of our readers may not get the paper until Sunday or Monday, so they figure that there’s no point in entering because a winner has already been selected. It’s also possible for folks who have access to a computer to phone or email the correct answer before the paper hit the streets on Friday – by checking out our online digital version of the paper, which is often available for viewing late Thursday night or early Friday. So, to improve the fairness of the contest and open it up to as many readers as possible, we have decided to make a change. If you don’t see the paper until Tuesday morning, you still have a chance to win. Anyone who submits the correct answer by noon on Tuesdays still has a chance to win. The winning entry will be selected from a hat. We have a winner! We have a winner in last week’s “Guess Who Got Sketched” contest. Congratulations to Gloria Johnson. Thanks to other readers who responded by email or phone message. Try again this week. Here’s last week’s answer, offered by the person who goes by the name of The Sketch Artist: “The answer to Our Saugus Sweetheart sketch is a very loving and warm Cheryl Doucette! “Cheryl was born and raised in East Saugus (part of four generations) and is married to her “homeboy” Paul. She met Paul when she was 16 yrs old, but didn't date him till she was 25. They are still celebrating their love after 33 + years of marriage and going strong! THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | SEE PAGE 11

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 Page 11 THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | FROM PAGE 10 “She is an exceptional skillful pool player and won Two Tournaments. Her Brother Ed gave her a few pointers and with that she took off on her own to excel at the sport! “Cheryl and Paul have three daughters Kerri and Marie and Kayla. She has two Grandchildren Samantha and Michael. She has held several managements positions in Saugus and is a caregiver, gardener and a great cook! Her children and Grandkids are 11 years apart, and 11 happens to be Cheryl’s favorite lucky number! Thanks Cheryl keep on shining your light! “Yours Truly, “The Sketch Artist” “Shout-outs” for the “turkey team” Nobody submitted any nominations this week to recognize unsung heroes or acts of kindness by Saugus residents. So, we have a good one that came to our attention. One thousand shout-outs to state Rep. Donald Wong (R-Saugus), his family – the owners of Kowloon Restaurant, the restaurant, Ernie Boch, Jr. and Subaru of New England and anyone else who had anything to do with the Touch-less Turkey Drop at Kowloon for about three hours last Saturday morning (Feb. 20). This was a short notice event where 1,000 turkeys got distributed out of a Subaru of New England truck parked at Kowloon. Piantedosi Bread Company donated some dinner rolls to go with the meal Surprisingly, there were no major traffic jams reported on Route 1 Saturday morning. “Please drive up, pop your trunk and enjoy a complimentary turkey as part of Subaru Loves to Help,” trumpeted an ad posted by “Subaru of New England in partnership with Kowloon.” The Kowloon website promoted the event as it was happening on Saturday. It was a nice gesture by all involved who helped to brighten the day for 1,000 homes – a few of them needy people who will get a few good meals. A “Shout-out” to Julie and Anthony Two members of Saugus town government are deserving of another loud “shout-out” for this week. Precinct 5 Town Meeting Member Julie Ann Mitchell and Board of Selectmen Chair Anthony Cogliano organized a fundraiser via the GoFundMe page which generated more than $5,000 to give to the family of the late Wendy Reed, the beloved, longtime clerk of the Board of Selectmen. “The Town of Saugus lost a great friend with the unexpected passing of Wendy Reed, longtime clerk to the Board of Selectmen, former Chairman of the Saugus School Committee and Director of the Saugus Food Pantry,” said a posting on the GoFundMe page. “Wendy dedicated her life to helping those less fortunate. It is now our turn to help the Reed family get through this tough time in their lives. I am asking my friends to support them through this Go fund me page. Thank you in advance for supporting the family of Wendy Lu Reed.” It’s the latest example of Saugus people stepping up to help their neighbors during times of tragedy or adversity. 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 photo. SAVE scholarship time The local citizen group Saugus Action Volunteers for the Environment (SAVE) is, once again, offering a $500 environmental scholarship to any Saugus resident graduating with the class of 2021 (from any high school) and pursuing a degree in any field which will positively impact the environment. This is a scholarship aimed at students who will be attending a two/ four-year college or other educational institution and pursuing a degree in an area that would positively impact the environment. Applicants can download the SAVE 2021 Environmental Scholarship Application Form found at www. saugusSAVE.org. Together with the completed application form, please include a separate sheet (identified with your initials only) that provides a brief summary of any of your activities relating to the environment and describes how you feel your career choice will positively impact the environment. Please mail your application (postmarked by April 23, 2021) to: SAVE, P.O. Box 908, Saugus, MA 01906 or email your application (no later than midnight on April 23, 2021) to: SAVE President, Ann Devlin at adevlin@aisle10.net. Again, the deadline for applications is April 23, 2021. An open meeting on cybersecurity The North Shore Computer Society (NSCS), which includes residents from Saugus, will hold an open meeting titled “Cybersecurity, the Pandemic and You,” at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 11 via Zoom teleconferencing. Guest speaker Robert Siciliano, a national cybersecurity expert based in Boston, will provide some insight as to how big the problem has become and what we as individuals can do to protect ourselves. See Robert’s website at protectnowllc.com/. Many folks are now working from home, which increases the “attack surface” that criminal hackers can use to exploit both employees and their employers. And while businesses are at risk, consumers are even more so due to the fact that they are somewhat isolated and spending that much more time online putting their financial information, account numbers, and Social Security numbers at risk. Reserve Your Spot: Ruth Berg says the North Shore Computer Society’s March 11 meeting will be open to non-members! Participation is limited to 100 people. Non-members must reserve a spot by sending a request, along with their contact information, to: cybersecurity@NorthShoreComputer.org. NSCS Members automatically have a spot reserved. experiments” Kelly Slater teams up with the Saugus Public Library this winter and spring to present several free online workshops, “Express Yourself! Fun and Easy Art Experiments.” Ranging in subject from kitchen table printmaking to artist’s accordion books, the workshops share a common emphasis on fun and experimentation. No previous art experience is required, and all art supplies will be provided free at the Saugus Public Library in “Take and Make” bags. The program began this week and there are three workshops left: In the second workshop, to be held Thursday, March 11, attendees will explore several different ways of making watercolor prints. The third session, scheduled for Thursday, April 15, will focus on drawing experiments and will invite participants to overcome any and all fears of drawing by letting go of control. The series will conclude on Thursday, April 29, with a foray into making accordion-style artists books. All sessions will last 90 minutes – running from 6:30-8:00 p.m. on a Thursday. Workshops are open to ages teens through adults. Students may sign up for anywhere from one to all four sessions. Advance registration is required through the Saugus Public Library. At the end of the four sessions, interested students can submit class work for a virtual art exhibit hosted through the Saugus Public Library website. To reserve your space at the free workshop, send an email to sau@noblenet.org with “SPL workshops” in the subject line. If you have questions about the content of the workshops, please contact Slater at kellyslaterart@hotmail.com with “SPL workshops” in the subject line. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Saugus Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency; Zoom support provided by the Saugus Public Library, and select art supplies provided by your local Artist & Craftsman Supply, which is located at 751 Broadway (Rte. 1 South) in Saugus. Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus (HS2) continues With the start of 2021, the Grab-N-Go meals program is back for another year at the Saugus Public Schools to keep needy students from going hungry. Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus (HS2), in partnership with Whitsons Food Service, continues with its noble program. Breakfasts and lunches will be available for pick up at Veterans Memorial School at 39 Hurd Ave. every Tuesday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. HS2 is a nonprofit group that helps to offset food insecurity in households. HS2 provides a supply of nutritious food for weekends or school holidays during the school year. For more information or assistance, please email hs2information@gmail.com or visit the Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus Facebook page. Food Pantry still open The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry will continue to remain open on Fridays between 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. despite concerns over the Coronavirus. They have made adjustments to protect their core of volunteers and the needy people who receive the food. For the protection of volunteers and clients, and to limit personal contact and crowding/ gathering, the food pantry has been distributing prebagged groceries. Even though clients may receive items they don’t want or need, food pantry organizers feel this is the best course of action to mitigate the potential spread of COVID-19. Those in need, even for short-term or one-time assistance, are encouraged to come. The food pantry is in the basement of Cliftondale Congregational Church at 50 Essex St. in Saugus. Food help for veterans Saugus offers a Veterans Food Pantry on the third “Express Yourself! Fun and easy art Wednesday of each month. “We have been holding it in Melrose since the Saugus Senior Center has been closed,” Saugus Veteran Services Officer Jay Pinette says. “The pantry provides a mix of fresh produce and non-perishable foods. The pantry is open to Veterans and/or surviving spouses. Registration is required and may be done by contacting the Veterans Services Office.” “The food market is generally held at the Saugus Senior Center, but given the current COVID-19 pandemic, we are currently offering a contact-free, drive-thru food pantry at Memorial Hall on Main Street in Melrose. If you are unable to pick-up, some limited deliveries may be available. This offering is year round. Please call the Saugus Veterans’ Service Office at 781231-4010 or e-mail VeteransServices@saugus-ma.gov in order to register. Proof of Veteran status is required.” Helping the Vet During these challenging times, your local Veterans’ Service Officers (VSOs) would like to share some information on a benefit program that is available to those who qualify. If you are a Veteran or the surviving spouse of a Veteran, the “Chapter 115 Benefits Program” is a Massachusetts state initiative that provides financial aid for Veterans and/or their surviving spouses who reside in Massachusetts and meet certain income and asset guidelines. Benefits may include monthly ordinary benefits and/or payment/reimbursement for medical expenses. Whether you are laid off, in transition or living on a fixed income, the program is designed to provide short-term or longterm assistance as needed to provide relief. The program is overseen by the Massachusetts Department THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | SEE PAGE 12

Page 12 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 SAUGUS GARDENS IN THE PANDEMIC Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable By Laura Eisener E ven in a normal February, it is easy to get discouraged by winter and eager for spring. Over 150 years ago, Henry David Thoreau advised walking and observing nature despite rough weather, as an antidote: “Take long walks in stormy weather or through deep snows in the fields and woods, if you would keep your spirits up. Deal with brute nature. Be cold and hungry and weary.” THE FRIENDLIEST OF BIRDS: The black-capped chickadee, the state bird of Massachusetts, perched on a weather vane in Lynnhurst. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) RED CEDAR: Growing near Birch Pond with waxy cones. Named red cedar for the color of its heartwood, this small tree has long been prized for its insect and rot resistant wood. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) It may take a bit of fortitude to get out the door, but once you set out you warm up fast. Already this week the icicles have melted, reformed and melted again. Weather seems to have been fluctuating uncertainly between winter and spring, with snow flurries alternating with rain, but we know the bloom of the lilacs is likely to be still a few months away. Among the birds that visit my SHEDDING TIME: Mature red cedar at the edge of Lynn Woods, showing peeling bark. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) ILLUMINATING WEATHER: Woods on a snowy evening, lit up by the lights of Route 1. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | FROM PAGE 11 Veterans’ Services (DVS), which runs the program in partnership with local VSOs. Every town or district in Massachusetts has a VSO. VSOs assist Veterans and their dependents in learning about, applying for and receiving Chapter 115 benefits. VSOs can also help you in applying for other benefits and connecting with local resources. Your local VSO handles applications, obtains program approval from DVS and provides local benefits. The program is funded by a combination of state and local funds. DVS pays for 75% of the approved benefits and your city or town pays for 25%. There are income and asset limits for the program. As a general rule, income and asset requirements are: Family of 1 – monthly income less than $2,081and an asset limit of $5,000. Family of 2 – monthly income less than $2,818 and an asset limit of $9,800. To determine if you may be eligible for financial assistance through the Chapter 115 program, visit the following link and follow the instructions – https:// massvetben.org/ – or call your local VSO for more information. The VSOs are also able to help Veterans apply for Federal VA benefits and local benefits and provide food assistance monthly. For example, did you know that if you own a home and have a VA service-connected disability, you are eligible for a partial or full exemption of your property taxes? “Please contact your local Veterans’ Service Officer for more information on any of the services feeder daily are black-capped chickadees, the state bird of both Massachusetts and Maine. They stay year round and are at home in residential areas as mentioned. We are all here to assist. We are regularly checking voicemails and emails as we continue to work remotely and in our offices throughout COVID-19.” Melrose: Karen Burke, 781-979-4186, kburke@cityofmelrose.org. Wakefield: David Mangan, 781-246-6377, dmangan@wakefield.ma.us. Saugus: Jay Pinette, 781-231-4010, jpinette@saugus-ma.gov. Buy a brick to honor your vets “Veterans Buy-a-Brick Program. Due to the low number of orders and the uncertainty of how a Veterans Day ceremony will be allowed, the program will be extended until May. The installation of bricks will be during the Memorial Day ceremony. We will be contacting the people who have already purchased a brick. Any questions, please call 781-231-7995.” Side Door Pickup at the Saugus Public Library To help keep the building and staff warmer during the winter, the Saugus Public Library moved its Front Door Pickup service from Central Street to Taylor Street in mid-December. Patrons are required to place items on hold via the library’s online catalog and then, once notified that their item(s) are ready, schedule a pickup date. Pickup times remain the same: Tuesday: 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday: 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Thursday: 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. well as woods. Chickadees are among the friendliest of birds and least frightened of people. In fact they fairly quickly can be persuaded to eat sunflower seeds or other treats from an outstretched hand. While they will eat many kinds of seeds, they also are fond of small insects and spiders. A large part of their diet is insect larvae, so they can be said to do their part in helping to limit garden pests. Even when you can’t see them, they have such a cheery upbeat song. GARDENS | SEE PAGE 15 “In addition to the slight change in location, the library has made it easier for its patrons to retrieve their items. Instead of waiting for a librarian to place your item on the table, we’ll place all scheduled holds on a table in the Taylor Street hallway. All you’ll have to do is walk in (one at a time, please, and don’t forget to wear a mask!) and retrieve the bag with your name on it. The library also provides remote printing pickup and take & make crafts from the Taylor Street hallway.” “And should you need assistance, a librarian will be standing by to help. “Fast, simple, and easy!” For more information, visit http://www.sauguspubliclibrary.org. Let’s hear it! Got an idea, passing thought or gripe you would like to share with The Saugus Advocate? I’m always interested in your feedback. It’s been nearly five years since I began work at The Saugus Advocate. I’m always interested in hearing readers’ suggestions for possible stories or good candidates for “The Advocate Asks” interview of the week. Feel free to email me at mvoge@comcast.net. Do you have some interesting views on an issue that you want to express to the community? Submit your idea. If I like it, we can meet for a 15- to 20-minute interview while practicing social distancing outside a local coffee shop. And I’ll buy the coffee. Or, if you prefer to be interviewed from the safety of your home on the phone or via email, I will provide that option to you as the nation copes with the Coronavirus crisis.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 Page 13 The latest Coronavirus Count State health officials notify Saugus of 60 new cases over the past week; death toll up to 65 By Mark E. Vogler T he Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) advised the town of 60 new confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday, raising the overall total to 3,510 since the outbreak of the virus last March. Meanwhile, the number of deaths in Saugus linked to the virus increased by two over the past week to 65, according to the latest statistics released yesterday by Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree’s office. A week ago, the state had reported 68 new cases – a reduction from 90 in the previous week. “Our hearts and prayers go WHY NOT SAUGUS | FROM PAGE 6 state: Fenway Park, Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, the Eastfield Mall in Springfield, the DoubleTree hotel in Danvers, the Natick Mall and a former Circuit City in out to those families affected by this health pandemic,” Crabtree said in the latest press release updating the latest number of COVID-19 cases and deaths. Massachusetts health officials announced, as of Feb. 23, the deaths of 60 more people in Massachusetts after contracting COVID-19, bringing the state total to 15,624. In addition, there were 1,788 newly reported cases. So far, 543,696 cases in total have been confirmed while 15,776,531 total tests for the virus have been administered. The press release notes the following COVID-19-related information as a public service to town residents: Dartmouth. “I fully support writing a letter, but it will fall on deaf ears,” Selectman Jeffrey Cicolini said. “Saugus does make a lot of sense ...having Route 1 and there are so many spots at the mall that are “The Town of Saugus has partnered with the Commonwealth, Fallon Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and the Square One Mall as a collaborative effort to work to downgrade the Town’s designated ‘High Risk’ red COVID-19 status by establishing and extending the following COVID-19 testing sites in Saugus: “Fallon EMS at the Square One Mall (Far Side Parking Lot on Essex Street), located at 1201 Broadway with entry off of Essex Street, will offer free mobile drive-up testing for Saugus residents in their cars Monday through Saturday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. No appointment is needed. [Resvacant,” he said, referring to the Square One Mall as an ideal site. “Route 1 — you don’t get much better access than that,” Cicolini said. Cicolini suggested that selectmen talk to state Rep. Donidents] drive-up and register using a tablet when they arrive. Saugus Police will be assisting with traffic. The testing site will be staffed by 1012 individuals to handle registrations. All samples go directly to the Broad [Institute] in Cambridge for immediate testing with a 24-36 hour turnaround time. Notification of results will be made for negative results via emails while phone calls will be made for positive COVID-19 results. These sites do close when it rains because of risk of test contamination. The state has indicated the site will remain open until further notice. “This information will be on the Town’s website and on the state’s website: https:// www.mass.gov/info-details/ stop-the-spread?rgja#saugus“The Board of Health and the Saugus Health Department will continue to partner with the state and are working ald Wong (R-Saugus) and other members of the state legislative delegation to support such a request. “Maybe the reps can even sign the letter,” Selectman Debra Panetta said. on a planned response to… COVID-19. They are analyzing the data from the past couple of weeks and developing specific strategies to combat the spread through additional enforcement and intervention measures. We need to do whatever is necessary to keep ourselves, family, neighbors, and communities safe. Continue to wear your masks, wash hands, avoid gatherings, and continue to follow the CDC and MDPH guidelines. “The Saugus Health Department strongly believes that additional unrecognized cases DO exist in Saugus. Due to the fact that they are undetected, some of these infected individuals may not be properly isolated or quarantined, which is why Governor Baker [directed] to wear a cloth face cover over [your] face when around others, practice CORONAVIRUS | SEE PAGE 17 With Route 1 so accessible to the mall and with plenty of parking spaces, selectmen encouraged Riley to craft a letter to make the request. “The worst thing they can say is ‘No,’” Panetta said.

Page 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 Beacon Hill Roll Call By Bob Katzen A note from Bob Katzen, Publisher of Beacon Hill Roll Call Join me this Sunday night and every Sunday night between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. for my talk show “The Bob Katzen Baby Boomer and Gen X Show.” Jump in my time capsule and come back to the simpler days of the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. My guest on Sunday, February 28 on my WMEX 1510 AM Radio and online show will be Worcester-native Jay Gordon who hosts the popular nationally syndicated radio program “Elvis Only,” a show dedicated solely to the music and life of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Jay’s knowledge of and love for Elvis is unsurpassed. Jay was also one of the top DJs on the best oldies station in the nation back in the day— Boston’s Oldies 103. Be there or be square! There are many ways you can listen to the show from anywhere in the world: If you have a smart speaker, simply say, “Play WMEX on RADIO.COM” Download the free RADIO.COM app on your phone or tablet Listen online at: www.wmexboston.com Tune into 1510 AM if you still have an AM radio THE HOUSE AND SENATE: There were no roll calls in the House or Senate last week. This week, Beacon Hill Roll Call reports on the percentage of times local senators voted with their party’s leadership in the 2020 session. Beacon Hill Roll Call uses 286 votes from the 2020 Senate session as the basis for this report. This includes all roll calls that were not on local issues. The votes of the 34 Democrats were compared to Senate Majority Leader Cynthia Creem (D-Newton), second-in-command in the Senate. We could not compare the Democrats’ votes to those of Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland) because, by tradition, the Senate president rarely votes. None of the 34 Democratic senators voted with Creem 100 percent of the time in 2020. That is a big change from the 2019 session when 14 (or 43 percent) of the Democratic senators voted with Creem 100 percent of the time Back to 2020: Three senators voted with Creem all but one time: Sens. Julian Cyr (D-Truro), Sal DiDomenico (D-Everett) and Adam Hinds (D-Pittsfield). Seven senators voted with Cream all but twice: Sens. Mike Barrett (D-Lexington), Joe Boncore (D-Winthrop), Will Brownsberger (D-Belmont), Brendan Crighton (D-Lynn), Cindy Friedman (D-Arlington), Eric Lesser (D-Longmeadow) and Jason Lewis (D-Winchester). Thirty-three (97 percent) of the 34 Democrats voted with Creem 90 percent or more of the time. Sen. Diana DiZoglio (D-Methuen) who voted with Creem 89.8 percent of the time was the only one who voted with Creem less than 90 percent of the time. The two other Democratic senators who voted the lowest percentage of times with Creem were Sens. Anne Gobi (D-Spencer) who voted with Creem 90.5 percent of the time and Walter Timilty (D-Milton) who voted with Creem 90.9 percent of the time. The votes of three Republican senators were compared with those of GOP Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester). In 2020, as in 2019, none of the three voted with Tarr 100 percent of the time. In 2020, the Republican senator who voted the lowest percentage of times with Tarr was former Sen. Dean Tran (R-Fitchburg) who voted with Tarr 57.5 percent of the time. Sen. Ryan Fattman (R-Sutton) voted with Tarr 68.4 percent of the time and Sen. Patrick O'Connor (R-Weymouth) sided with Tarr the most times–91.2 percent of the time. Those numbers are a big change from 2019 when Tarr got way more cooperation from those senators. In 2019, the Republican senator who voted the lowest percentage of times with Tarr was Sen. Fattman who voted with Tarr 90.8 percent of the time; Sen. Patrick O'Connor voted with Tarr 92.3 percent of the time; and former Sen. Dean Tran sided with Tarr 93.7 percent of the time. PERCENTAGE OF TIMES SENATORS VOTED WITH THEIR PARTY’S LEADERSHIP IN 2020 The percentage next to the senator’s name represents the percentage of times the senator supported his or her party’s leadership. The number in parentheses represents the number of times the senator opposed his or her party’s leadership. Some senators voted on all 286 roll call votes. Others missed one or more roll call. The percentage for each senator is calculated based on the number of roll calls on which he or she voted and does not count the roll calls for which he or she was absent. Sen. Brendan Crighton 99.3 percent 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 latenight 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 February 15-19, the House met for a total of 33 minutes while the Senate met for a total of 17 minutes. Mon. February 15 No House session No Senate session Tues. February 16 House 11:01 a.m. to 11:08 a.m. Senate 11:10 a.m. to 11:17 a.m. Wed. February 17 No House session No Senate session Thurs. February 18 House 11:09 a.m. to 11:35 a.m. Senate 11:09 a.m. to 11:19 a.m. Fri. February 19 No House session No Senate session Bob Katzen welcomes feedback at bob@beaconhillrollcall.com S y Senior How to Choose a Sa e a BY JIM MILLER t Ch Hospice Care Program Dear Savvy Senior, Where can I turn to fi nd a good Medicare covered hospice provider? My husband’s mother has a terminal condition and wants to die at home, if possible, so I’m helping out where I can. Sad Sandy Dear Sandy, Hospice is a wonderful option in the last months of life because it off ers a variety of services, not only to those who are dying, but also to those left behind. Here’s what you should know about hospice care, along with some tips to help you choose one. Understanding Hospice Hospice care is a unique service that provides medical care, pain management, and emotional and spiritual support to people who are in the last stages of a terminal illness – it does not speed up or slow down the process of dying. Hospice’s goal is to simply keep the patient as comfortable and pain-free as possible, with loved ones nearby until death. The various services provided by a hospice program comes from a team of professionals that works together to accommodate all the patients’ end-of-life needs. The team typically includes hospice doctors that will work with the primary physician and family members to draft up a care plan; nurses who dispense medication for pain control; home care aids that attend to personal needs like eating and bathing; social workers who help the patient and the family prepare for end of life; clergy members who provide spiritual counseling, if desired; and volunteers that fi ll a variety of niches, from sitting with the patient to helping clean and maintain their property. Some hospices even offer massage or music therapy, and nearly all provide bereavement services for relatives and short-term inpatient respite care to give family caregivers a break. Most hospice patients receive care in their own home. However, hospice will go wherever the patient is – hospital, nursing home or assisted living residence. Some even have their own facility to use as an option. To receive hospice, your mother-in-law must get a referral from her physician stating that her life expectancy is six months or less. It’s also important to know that home-based hospice care does not mean that a hospice nurse or volunteer is in the home 24 hours a day. Services are based on need and/ or what you request. Hospice care can also be stopped at any time if your mother-inlaw’s health improves or if she decides to re-enter cure-oriented treatments. How to Choose The best time to prepare for hospice and consider your options is before it’s necessary, so you’re not making decisions during a stressful time. There are more than 4,300 hospice care agencies in the U.S., so depending on where you live; you may have several options from which to choose. To locate a good hospice in your area, ask your mother-in-law’s doctor or the discharge planner at your local hospital for a referral, or you can search online at Medicare. gov/care-compare, which provides lists and ratings of hospice providers in your area. When choosing, look for an established hospice that has been operating for a few years and one that is certified by Medicare. To help you select one, the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization offers a worksheet of questions to ask CaringInfo.org. Medicare Coverage Medicare covers all aspects of hospice care and services for its benefi ciaries. There is no deductible for hospice services although there may be a very small co-payment – such as $5 for each prescription drug for pain and symptom control, or a 5 percent share for inpatient respite care. Medicaid also covers hospice in most states, as do most private health insurance plans. For more information, see the “Medicare Hospice Benefi ts” online booklet at Medicare.gov/pubs/ pdf/02154-medicare-hospice-benefi ts.pdf. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book. Senio nior nir ior

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 Page 15 “This is a very different view for students” Supt. DeRuosi urges parents of young children to prepare them for the sight of their teachers in masks By Mark E. Vogler S augus Public Schools Superintendent David DeRuosi, Jr. has some concerns about young school-age children feeling uncomfortable in a classroom setting because of the way their teachers look. “For any young students, I would ask the parents to talk to those children about staff wearing masks, PPE [personal protection equipment], gowns or goggles,” DeRuosi said Tuesday in his “Superintendent’s Special Report” video posted on the School Department website. “This might help them better prepare for what they may see staff wearing in the School 1. On Feb. 26, 1992, the nuclear reactor of the Yankee Atomic Electric Company in Rowe, Mass., shut down; what river was it on? 2. How many basketball teams does the NBA have? 3. On Feb. 27, 1936, what Russian physiologist died and inventor of the “conditioned reflex” died? 4. On Feb. 28, 1983, the final episode of “M*A*S*H” aired; what do those letters stand for? 5. Who was the first Black female in Congress? 6. On Feb. 29, 1692, Sarah Good, Sarah Osborne and Tituba were arrested for witchcraft in what township? 7. What number does not have a corresponding Roman numeral? 8. On March 1, 1921, what famous illusionist/stunt performer patented a Diver’s Suit? 9. Then first known swimming goggles (used by pearl divers) were made from what animal product? 10. On March 2, 1926, Natacha Rambova patented a doll; she was previously the wife of what star in the film “The Sheik”? 11. What fruit has its seeds on the outside? 12. March 2 is annual Read Across America Day, in honor of the birthday of what children’s book author? 13. In what month does Massachusetts maple syrup production begin? 14. On March 3, 1923, what magazine was first published that was the first U.S. weekly news magazine? 15. What area has the world’s longest railroad line? 16. March 3 is World Wildlife Day, which was proclaimed by what organization? 17. How many zeros does a googol have? 18. On March 4, 1985, the Food and Drug Administration approved a blood test for what viral infection? 19. In an 1850 essay what Boston native who died in Concord wrote, “Our life is March weather, savage and serene in one hour”? 20. On March 5, 1946, in a speech in Missouri, what British statesman popularized the term “Iron Curtain”? ANSWERS Building,” he said. “This is a very different view for students. So, I think if you are talking to them a little bit about it, and maybe show them some examples, they will be a little more at ease with it,” he said. In this week’s video, DeRuosi also asked for some help from parents to reinforce respect in their children for COVID-19 protocols, to avoid any outbreaks of the virus. “The ultimate goal is to bring all students back before the end of the school year,” DeRuosi said. “To make this process happen, these first initial steps have to be successful. My administrators, my teachers, my nurses need your help to make this happen. We can’t do it alone.” If children do not feel well, parents should keep them at home and then call the school to report them as being absent, the superintendent said. If they feel better later, they could always join their class via remote learning from home, he added. Parents need to be vigilant in making sure their children follow the new rules and protocols as they return to class for in-person learning for the first time since last March. All children must wear face coverings while in school, practice social distancing while remaining at least six feet apart from others and wash their hands. If in doubt about the new school regulations to protect children, teachers and staff, the parents should refer to their child’s handbook or consult with the building principal, DeRuosi suggested. Saugonians receive first quarter honors at Malden Catholic M ALDEN – The Saugus residents listed below received honors for the first quarter of the 2020-2021 school year at Malden Catholic High School. Malden Catholic divides honors into three sections: the Headmaster’s List, First Honors and Second Honors. The Headmaster’s List is achieved by having grades greater than 90 in all classes; First Honors is achieved by having grades greater than 85 in all classGARDENS | FROM PAGE 12 Eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana) is a common native evergreen which often pops up in areas such as the edge of the woods, roadsides, abandoned fields and along old railroad tracks. Some varieties are planted in gardens as ornamentals. The needle color can vary from varying shades of green to blue-gray, and sometimes takes on a reddish tinge in cold weather. The bark is also a cinnamon reddish color. The most likely reason for the name red cedar, though, is the color of the heartwood, as this small tree has long been prized for its insect and rot resistant wood. Male and female cones are usually produced on separate trees. To most observers, the cones don’t look like those of es; and Second Honors is achieved by having grades greater than 80 in all classes. Headmaster’s List: Rachael Burke, Courtney Casaletto, Mia Fronduto, Kayla Jackson, Ally Marino, Carolina Munera Restrepo, Lily Nguyen, Nicole Uribe Lopez, Kevin Jolicoeur, Joseph Meuse, Phuc Nguyen, Diego Portal, Gabriel Portal and Nicholas Sambataro. First Honors: Khloe Camblin, Ailiana LaMarca, Stacy Namaga-Bulega, Lauren Pozark, most other conifers – they are soft and waxy, looking more like berries. If you look in the spice aisle of a supermarket, you will find jars labeled juniper berries. Famously used in recipes for Rock Cornish game hen, and in flavoring gin, the so-called berries are also very important wildlife food. Birds, such as cedar waxwings, often flock to them during migration. The birds don’t actually digest the seeds inside the berries they eat, so many red cedars have been “planted” by birds some distance from where they may have enjoyed their meal. This tree is also sometimes known as pencil cedar. While some other trees, such as incense cedar (Calocedrus spp.), are often used today, the pencils made by H.D. Thoreau’s family undoubtedly used Madelyn Ragucci, Ashley Reardon, Michael Azzari, Anthony Caruso, Ivan Compres, Caio Cruz, Michael DiGirolamo, Christopher Femino, Stephen Mineo, Nicholas Sparages and Dominic Wadland. Second Honors: Evangelina Carr, Lily Mineo, Caroline Pham, Joy Pham, Olivia Sullivan, Colin Cadigan, Anthony Carrera, Stephen Dewsnap, Hunter Quinn, Scott Robertson, Jalen Taylor, Joseph Viglione and Devin Williams. wood from our red cedar. The aromatic wood is also valued for the walls of cedar closets, since they repel insects, such as wool moths, which notoriously damage wool fabric, yarn and clothes made from wool. Editor’s Note: Laura Eisener is a landscape design consultant who helps homeowners with landscape design, plant selection and placement of trees and shrubs, as well as perennials. She is a member of the Saugus Garden Club and offered to write a series of articles about “what’s blooming in town” shortly after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. She was inspired after seeing so many people taking up walking the streets in their neighborhoods as a way to get some exercise and get out of the house during the global pandemic. 1. The Deerfield River 2. 30 3. Ivan Pavlov 4. Mobile Army Surgical Hospital 5. Shirley Chisholm (1968) 6. Salem (now Danvers) 7. Zero 8. Harry Houdini 9. Tortoise shells 10. Rudolph Valentino 11. Strawberry 12. Dr. Seuss 13. February 14. Time 15. Siberia 16. The United Nations General Assembly 17. 100 18. HIV 19. Ralph Waldo Emerson 20. Winston Churchill

Page 16 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 WASTE REMOVAL & BUILDING MAINTENANCE • Landscaping, Lawn Care, Mulching • Yard Waste & Rubbish Removal • Interior & Exterior Demolition (Old Decks, Fences, Pools, Sheds, etc.) • Appliance and Metal Pick-up • Construction and Estate Cleanouts • Pick-up Truck Load of Trash starting at $169 • Carpentry LICENSED & INSURED Call for FREE ESTIMATES! Office: (781) 233-2244 Mold & Waterproofing EXPERTS • Sump Pumps • Walls & Floor Cracks • ALL WORK GUARANTEED - Licensed Contractor - JPG CONSTRUCTION Cell phone 781-632-7503 508-292-9134 Frank Berardino MA License 31811 • 24 - Hour Service • Emergency Repairs BERARDINO Plumbing & Heating Residential & Commercial Service Gas Fitting • Drain Service 617.699.9383 Senior Citizen Discount We follow Social Distancing Guidelines! ADVOCATE Call now! 781 233 4446

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 Page 17 PATIENCE | FROM PAGE 7 “Therefore, John Fralick, the Saugus Public Health Director, and the Massachusetts Department of Health (DPH) are encouraging Saugus residents to [register] for the COVID-19 vaccine that is currently available for the eligible populations through the state vaccine sites and website at: https://www.maimmunizations.org/. “Please note that vaccine and appointment availability at state vaccination sites are much more available than the very limited amount at the Town of Saugus at this time. Please visit the website to search for an available apFRANK’S Housepainting (781) 289-0698 • Exterior • Ceiling Dr. • Power Wash • Paper Removal • Carpentry FREE ESTIMATES — Fully Insured pointment near you, or dial 2-1-1 for assistance in making an appointment through the state. Again, at this time, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) encourages the use of one of the several mass vaccination sites across the Commonwealth. “As details and guidance CORONAVIRUS | FROM PAGE 13 “Proper prep makes all the difference” – F. Ferrera • Interior social distancing, avoid gatherings, and to follow the CDC and MDPH guidance.” “Please follow CDC and MDPH guidance to prevent COVID-19 illness by: from the Federal and State government [have] shifted the Saugus Health Department has had to adapt to modify its plans. “Please contact the Saugus Health Department at (781) 231-4117 to provide your information so that the Health Department can schedule your vaccine appointment. • Clean your hands often for at least: 20 seconds • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth • Stay at least 6 feet between yourself and others • Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when “Please have patience and understand the Town of Saugus has a very limited amount of vaccinations and does not have enough for everyone that would like to receive one. Please continue to schedule with the state regional sites as well. “Please stay healthy and please call us with any needs.” around others “Please stay healthy and please call us with any needs… For more information, contact the Saugus Health Department at (781) 231-4117 and/ or the Town Manager’s office at 781-231-4111.” Office/Commercial Space for Lease 3 Large rooms, each with walk-in storage area. Ideal for Law Office or Aerobics Studio. Like new condition. Second floor elevator direct to unit. Seperate entrances - New Baths - Large Parking Area. On MBTA Bus Route #429. Located on Route 1 South at Walnut Street. Rollerworld Plaza Rte. 1 South 425 Broadway Saugus Call Michelle at: 781-233-9507

Page 18 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 OBITUARIES Viva Elizabeth “Betty” (Ludwig) D’Eon Age 81, died Friday night at her home surrounded by her family. She was the wife of the late Ronald D. D’Eon. Born in Lynn and a lifelong resident of Saugus, Betty loved spending time with her large extended family and many friends. She enjoyed traveling, reading, swimming and was a tremendous Patriots fan. She was a volunteer Saugus poll worker for many years. She is survived by four children; John D’Eon and his wife Christine, Brenda MacQueston and her husband Tom, Rhonda Hansen and her husband Larry, Michelle Fitzpatrick and her husband John all of Saugus. Mrs. D’Eon was the sister of Elgin “Al” Ludwig, Jr. of WV, Fred Ludwig of Peabody. She was predeceased by her son James D’Eon and siblings; Ruth Nickerson and Patricia Walker. Also survived by nine beloved grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, Sisters-in-Law Margie D’Eon, Norma Knowlton, Michelle Ludwig, Phyllis Ludwig and many nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers donations in her memory may be made to Care Dimensions Hospice of Danvers. Anne Rowan Of Malden, formerly of Boston, died on Saturday, February 20, 2021 following a heart attack. She will be forever missed by her devoted and loving husband, Mohammed Sammy Hussein, her beloved son, John Rowan and his wife Deborah and her loving sister, Sarah Gwynn and her husband, John. She was predeceased by her brothers, Michael and Joseph. Born in Concord on August 1, 1944, Anne was the daughter of the late Martin and Dorothy Diskin. She was raised in Concord, graduated from the Katherine Gibbs Secretarial School and enjoyed her successful career in the insurance and hotel industries. Anne loved life and lived it to the fullest. Upon retiring and moving to Malden, she enjoyed her many friends, long walks, social activities and especially celebrating Christmas. Anne was generous, kind and thoughtful and loved by many friends; her outgoing personality and resilience have enriched all who knew her. Patricia A. (Tarr) Pottle Of Saugus, Feb. 21, 2021, at age 76. Beloved wife of the late Bradford H. “Brad” Pottle with whom she shared 49 years of marriage. Loving sister of Wayne Tarr and his wife Maryrose of Wakefield. Caring sister-in-law of the late Nance (Pottle) Hallstrom, and the late Robert Pottle and his surviving wife June of N. Reading. Also lovingly survived by many nieces and nephews. Copyrighted material previously published in Banker & Tradesman/The Commercial Record, a weekly trade newspaper. It is reprinted with permission from the publisher, The Warren Group. For a searchable database of real estate transactions and property information visit: www.thewarrengroup.com. BUYER1 REAL ESTATE TRANSAC TIONS SELLER1 BUYER2 Moreira, Tiago D Zepeda, Paul Linda Gregson T Posada, Cristina J SELLER2 Gregson, Linda D Posada, Marvin L ADDRESS 9 Johnson Rd CITY DATE PRICE 18 Longwood Ave Saugus 03.02.2021 $355 000,00 Saugus 01.02.2021 $505 000,00

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 Page 19 Follow Us On: COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY SALES & RENTALS Sandy Juliano Broker/President A chill is in the air but Everett house prices are still Hot. Call today to learn the value of your home! WE KNOW EVERETT!! Call TODAY to sell or buy with the best! LISTED BY SANDY UNDER AGREEMENT! SINGLE FAMILY UNDER AGREEMENT! 40 EASTERN AVE., REVERE $464,888 LISTED BY SANDY 3 BEDROOM SINGLE 158 GROVER ST., EVERETT $589,900 NEW LISTING BY NORMA SOLD! TWO FAMILY 45-47 SYCAMORE ST., EVERETT $724,900 NEW LISTING BY MARIA UNDER AGREEMENT! TWO FAMILY 141 GARLAND ST., EVERETT $925,000 CALL SANDY FOR DETAILS: 617-448-0854 LISTED BY ROSEMARIE NEW COMMERCIAL LISTING SQUIRE RD., REVERE $1,300,000 REVERE RENTAL 1 BEDROOM WITH UTILITIES PLEASE CALL MARIA FOR DETAILS 781-808-6877 COMMERCIAL/RETAIL SPACE FOR RENT COMMERCIAL BUILDING 14,000 SQ FT LOT SQUIRE RD., REVERE $1,700,000 GREAT MAIN ST. LOCATION $1,800/MO. CALL SANDY FOR DETAILS 617-448-0854 SOLD! 17 EVELYN RD., EVERETT $519,900 SOLD! 25 HAWKES ST., SAUGUS NEW PRICE! $434,900 LISTED BY NORMA Open Daily From 10:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. 433 Broadway, Suite B, Everett, MA 02149 Open Daily From 10:0 Joe DiNuzzo - Broker Associate :0 00 AM 5:00 PM www.jrs-properties.com Follow Us On: 617.544.6274 Norma Capuano Parziale - Agent Denise Matarazz - Agent Maria Scrima - Agent Rosemarie Ciampi - Agent Michael Matarazzo -Agent Mark Sachetta - Agent

Page 20 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 WONDERING WHAT YOUR HOME IS WORTH? CALL FOR YOUR FREE MARKET ANALYSIS! LITTLEFIELD REAL ESTATE SAUGUS ~ Rehabbed colonial. New windows, siding, new kitchen with quartz counters, stainless appliances, new cabinets. New hardwood flooring throughout house. New heat. Central AC. New maintenance free deck..........$570,000 SAUGUS ~ Desirable 2 family. Each unit has 2 beds, updated kitchens and baths, vinyl siding, in-unit laundry, rear decks .......$499,000 SAUGUS ~ Rehabbed colonial, 4-5 bedroom, 2 full baths, gas heat, central AC, new siding, new roof, hardwood flooring, fresh paint, new kitchen with SS appliances quartz counters ...............$559,900 38 Main Street, Saugus MA WWW.LITTLEFIELDRE.COM 781-233-1401 SAUGUS ~ Raised ranch, 3 bed, 3 bath, gas heat, central AC, garage under, great location, master bedroom with master bath and walk in closet, finished lower level for the extended family......... $579,900 Call Rhonda Combe For all your SAUGUS ~ 4 bed, 3 bath colonial. Spacious kitchen, SS appliances, Oversized one car garage, irrigation, gas heat enclosed porch, centralVac, finished lower level ... $569,900 real estate needs!! 781-706-0842 SAUGUS ~ 3 bed, 1.5 bath colonial. Open concept 1st floor, 2 car garage, newer gas heat, roof and HW heater, prof landscaping....$439,900 REVERE ~ 2 family located in the Beachmont area, 3 beds, one bath in top unit, 2 beds, one bath lower unit.....................................$639,000 LAND FOR SALE WILMINGTON ~ Colonial featuring 4 beds and 2 full baths, great dead end location, central AC, hardwood flooring, finished lower level..$534,900 SAUGUS ~ 3 bed ranch, open concept, stainless appliances, private dead end street, newer gas heat, hardwood flooring, 10k lot, garage ..............$435,000 LYNN ~ New construction. 3400 sq feet, 4 bed, 2.5 bath, gas heat, central AC, hardwood flooring, walking closet, great cul de sac location, garage under........... $879,999 SAUGUS Call Rhonda Combe at 781-706-0842 for details!! SOLD SOLD UNDER CONTRACT SOLD

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