THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MArCH 7, 2025 Page 3 Children’s book author Jerry Pallotta visits Veterans Early Learning Center (The following info is based on a press release issued by the Saugus Public Library this week.) T he Saugus Public Library and the Saugus School District once again partnered to bring acclaimed children’s author Jerry Pallotta to Saugus. Following the success of his 2023 visit to the Belmonte STEAM Academy, Pallotta returned this year to engage with students at the Veterans Early Learning Center (VELC). Pallotta, who is known for his best-selling “Who Would Win?” series, captivated young readers with his exciting blend of fact-filled imaginative nonfiction, including popular titles like “Falcon vs. Hawk” and “Jaguar vs. Skunk.” His first book, “The Ocean Alphabet Book,” became a bestseller at the New England Aquarium and remains one of his personal favorites. His books are renowned for inspiring curiosity in children and combining fun and education in a way that sparks a love for reading. A native of Massachusetts, Pallotta grew up in Malden and spent his summers in Scituate. Jerry’s love for storytelling began during his childhood visits to his grandparents’ home on the ocean in Scituate. These visits sparked his deep connection to nature and the world around him. Later, as a father, his wife encouraged him to read to their children. It was through these moments of reading that Jerry began to reflect on his own stories, and the inspiration to share them with young readers grew. Pallotta travels extensively to research his books, and he visits schools nationwide, where his entertaining presenOP-ED | FROM PAGE 2 the last few years, we’ve seen tremendous transformation in another key area: athletics. I joined PCSS as Athletic Director in 2008, excited at the prospect of starting from scratch and building an athletics program. Initially, we had limited resources: one gym and no fields. But as our schools have grown, so too have our athletic programs. While initially both PCSS and PCSS II were only a member ported by the Mass Cultural Council, for funding this event. Additionally, the New Friends of the Saugus Library generously donated copies of Pallotta’s books to the VELC Library to help students and teachers prepare for his visit. “We’re excited to continue our author visit series and already have plans in place for 2026,” said Saugus Public Library Head of Children’s SerAMBASSADORS OF READING: Pictured from left to right are Children’s Librarian Kathryn Walton, author Jerry Pallotta and Head of Children’s Services Amy Melton. (Courtesy Photo to The Saugus Advocate) vices Amy Melton. The Saugus Public Library is dedicated to fostering a love for reading and learning within the Saugus community. Through creative programs and partnerships, the library provides valuable resources and opportunities for people of all ages. The Saugus Cultural Council works to support and promote the arts, culture and creativity in the Saugus area. 425r Broadway, Saugus Located adjacent to Kohls Plaza Route 1 South in Saugus at the intersection of Walnut Street We are on MBTA Bus Route 429 781-231-1111 WHO WOULD WIN? Children’s author Jerry Pallotta used his popular book series to connect with students at the Veterans Early Learning Center. (Courtesy Photo to The Saugus Advocate) tations inspire students to engage with literature and discover the joy of reading. The visit is part of a grant-funded initiative by the Saugus Public Library, supported by the Saugus Cultural Council. Previous visiting authors in this series include Jarrett Krosoczka, creator of the “Lunch Lady” series, and virtual visits from Lauren Tarshis, author of the “I Survived” series, and Eric Litwin, creator of of the Massachusetts Charter School Athletic Organization (MCSAO), we are now members of and strong contenders in the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA), competing alongside other highly competitive traditional public schools. Our Fall 2024 season was one of our best to date. Some key moments include the PCSS Girls’ Cross-Country team winning the MCSAO Pete the Cat. “We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with Saugus Public Schools to provide students with opportunities to meet renowned authors,” said Saugus Public Library Director Alan Thibeault. “Our goal is to inspire young readers, and Jerry Pallotta’s visit is an exciting way to do that.” The library also extends its gratitude to the Saugus Cultural Council, a local agency supChampionship Meet, the PCSS II Girls’ Volleyball team winning the MCSAO Championship and competing in the MIAA State Tournament, the PCSS Girls’ Volleyball team qualifying for the MIAA State Tournament for the first time in history, and the PCSS/PCSS II Coop Boys’ Soccer team winning the MCSAO Championship and making it to the Quarterfinals in the MIAA OP-ED | SEE PAGE 9 We are a Skating Rink with Bowling Alleys, Arcade and two TV’s where the ball games are always on! PUBLIC SKATING SCHEDULE 12-7 p.m. Sunday Monday Tuesday $10.00 Price includes Roller Skates Rollerblades/inline skates $3.00 additional cost Private Parties 7:30-11 p.m. Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday $11.00 Price includes Roller Skates 18+ Adults Only After 7 PM - ID Required Private Parties Private Parties 4-8 p.m. $10.00 8:30-11 p.m. $11. 18+ Adults Only After 7 PM - ID Required 12-9 p.m. $10.00 Everyone must pay admission after 6 p.m. Sorry No Checks - ATM on site Roller skate rentals included in all prices Inline Skate Rentals $3.00 additional BIRTHDAY & PRIVATE PARTIES AVAILABLE www.roller-world.com
4 Publizr Home