SAUGUS Your locally owned newspaper for 25 years! Vol. 25, No. 11 -FREEwww.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday 781-233-4446 Friday, March 18, 2022 The FY 2023 Budget A Springtime Sight T Finance Committee reviews proposed spending plans for police and fi re departments By Mark E. Vogler own Manager Scott C. Crabtree has recommended a Police Department budget of $9 million for the 2023 Fiscal Year that begins July 1 – an increase of more than $456,000 over the current year. Salaries and full-time wages of the police force account for $283,235 of the proposed budget hike. Meanwhile, Crabtree supports the $6 million budget request for the Saugus Fire Department – an increase of $240,000 over the current budget. Salaries and wages of full-time Fire Department personnel account for about $4.6 million of the department’s budget request. The Finance Committee received its annual briefi ngs on Wednesday (March 16) from the police and fire chiefs as committee members began their department-by-department review of the FY 2023 budget that will be submitted with recommendations BUDGET | SEE PAGE 2 Farewell Saugus BEHOLD THE PURPLE PATCH: Sunday (March 20) is the offi cial start of spring. But these Dutch hybrid crocus blooms on a south facing foundation near Saugus Center were already welcoming the new season earlier this week. Please see inside for more photos and this week’s “Saugus gardens in the spring.” (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) The retirement of “a tireless advocate” Veterans Service Offi cer Jay Pinette plans to leave his post next month By Mark E. Vogler F Veterans Service Offi cer Jay Pinette plans to retire next month after advocating for local veterans for four years. (Saugus Advocate fi le photo by Mark E. Vogler) or the last four years, Jay Pinette has worked several days a week out of Saugus Town Hall as the Veterans Service Offi cer (VSO), helping to make life less complicated for local veterans and their families. Pinette, 67, U.S. Marine veteran who lives in Wakefi eld, announced this week that he will be retiring, eff ective the middle of next month. He said he plans to work several weeks, helping ~ Home of the Week ~ SAUGUS...Great Opportunity to own a piece of Route One! This long acre of land with ample parking, high front exposure - ready for new owner. View the interior of this home right on your smartphone. to train his successor to provide a smooth transition. Mike Saunders, a U.S. Army veteran who served in Iraq, will start work on March 28. Local veterans group leaders praised Pinette’s service to the town and said he will be missed. “Jay has been a tireless advocate for the veterans of Saugus and beyond,” Saugus Veterans Council Commander Stephen L. Castinetti said this week. “He has become an integral member of the Saugus veterans community and I have extended a sincere invitation to Jay to continue his affi liation with the Saugus Veterans Council. Semper fi , Jay and thank you for your service and your commitment to veterans,” said Castinetti, a retired U.S. Navy captain. School Committee Member Joseph “Dennis” Gould, who has been involved in local veterans’ activities, called Pinette “a very strong Veteran supporter as VSO covering Saugus.” “Jay has spent many hours of his own time attending Veteran Council, Legion and VFW meetings, understanding the demographics and clients and always accessible to local veterans,” Gould said. “He did his role very professionally and with utmost dedication to those he served. ADVOCATE | SEE PAGE 8 ASNGELO’ FULL SERVICE Regular Unleaded $4.159 Mid Unleaded $4.369 Super $4.499 Diesel Fuel $4.979 "43 Years of Excellence!" 1978-2021 KERO $6.99 DEF $4.75 9 Diesel $4.559 9 HEATING OIL 24-Hour Burner Service Call for Current Price! (125—gallon minimum) DEF Available Open an account and order online at: www.angelosoil.com (781) 231-3500 (781) 231-3003 367 LINCOLN A A DA Prices subject to change Ask about FLEET
Page 2 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 Rep. Wong supports extending outdoor dining and cocktails-to-go as part of $1.6B supplemental budget S tate Representative Donald Wong recently supported a proposal to allow restaurants to continue providing outdoor dining and cocktailsto-go with takeout orders until the spring of 2023 as part of a $1.6 billion supplemental budget. The spending plan, which was fi led as House Bill 4532, also provides $700 million (M) to fund a wide range of COVID-19-related treatment and vaccination initiatives, including testing in schools and congregate care settings, and extends the state’s emergency eviction protections to March 31, 2023. On March 9 the bill was unanimously passed by the House of Representatives. On March 10 the Senate referred the bill to its Committee on Ways and Means. Wong noted that the actual cost of the supplemental budget to the state will be less than $1.6 billion, as many of the spending items included in the bill are eligible for Lawrence A. Simeone Jr. Attorney-at-Law ~ Since 1989 ~ * Corporate Litigation * Criminal/Civil * MCAD * Zoning/Land Court * Wetlands Litigation * Workmen’s Compensation * Landlord/Tenant Litigation * Real Estate Law * Construction Litigation * Tax Lein * Personal Injury * Bankruptcy * Wrongful Death * Zoning/Permitting Litigation 300 Broadway, Suite 1, Revere * 781-286-1560 Lsimeonejr@simeonelaw.net federal reimbursement. When the initial bill was released by House Ways and Means prior to debate, it was estimated that the actual cost to the state would be $842M or about half of the original bill’s bottom line. An additional $6.75M in spending was added to the bill through the amendment process, $5M of which would be allocated to the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), with the remaining $1.75M in funding going to the state’s Department of Fire Services. During floor debate, Wong supported an amendment that was filed by State Representative Kelly Pease (R-Westfield) to add $100M to the Chapter 90 municipal road and bridge program to assist cities and towns, but the amendment was defeated on a roll call vote of 28128. He also supported an amendment that was filed by State Representative Peter Durant to provide relief to the state’s motorists by funding could be used for reconstructing, resurfacing and striping roads, as well as for repairing or replacing traffi c lights, signage, guardrails and storm grates. Other spending initiatives contained in the bill are as follows: • $100M for the Rental AssisDonald Wong State Representative suspending the 24 cents per gallon gas excise tax until the average cost of a gallon of unleaded gas falls below $3.70, but the amendment was defeated on a voice vote. Under House Bill 4532, Banking with a hometown touch. Open a free checking account with no monthly fees, and get access to Mobile Banking, Bill Pay and other features. Because no matter where you go, we’re right by you. Call or visit us to sign up. 419 BROADWAY, EVERETT MA 02149 7 7 1 SALEM ST, LYNNFIELD, MA 01940 WWW.EVERET TBANK . COM restaurants are allowed to continue off ering outdoor dining as well as certain alcoholic drinks as part of a food takeout order until April 1, 2023. Initiated during the fi rst year of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 to support Massachusetts’ businesses, the outdoor dining provisions are currently scheduled to expire on April 1, while the ability to off er beer, wine and mixed drinks with food takeout orders is set to expire on May 1. The House proposal also includes $100M to provide grant funding to municipalities as part of a winter recovery assistance program, which would be distributed using a formula based on local road miles. Wong noted that this BUDGET | FROM PAGE 1 to the Annual Town Meeting in May. The Finance Committee is scheduled to resume its budget review at 7 p.m. next Wednesday (March 23) with the spending plans of Saugus Public Schools on the agenda. “This is a great presentation,” Right by you. Member FDIC Member DIF Finance Committee Chair Kenneth DePatto told Police Chief Michael Ricciardelli after he briefed the committee on the Police Department spending plan. DePatto noted that the budget was level-funded for the most part except for the increases in department salaries and the overtime training budget. DePatto said he was also pleased with the budget presentation by Saugus Fire Chief Michael C. Newbury. Committee members had few questions for the two tance for Families in Transition (RAFT) program • $2.8M for shelters servicing homeless individuals • $359,154 for climate adaptation and preparedness • $140M in grants for special education schools to help address the impacts of COVID-19 and its variants • $8.4M for guardianship, foster care, adoption, family preservation and kinship services provided by the Department of Children & Families • $1.66M for the Department of Conservation & Recreation’s state parks and recreation division • $8M for early intervention services • $5M for the Department of Public Health’s Suicide Prevention and Intervention Program • $5M for adult mental health and support services • $10M for emergency aid to the elderly, disabled and children • $500,000 for the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women • $10M to assist with the resettlement of Ukrainian refugees and immigrants • $108.3M for collective bargaining costs chiefs. (See related stories.) DePatto asked Chief Ricciardelli to talk about the Police Department’s involvement with the North Eastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council (NEMLEC), for the benefi t of the public. “I think it’s a great thing,” DePatto said. “Unfortunately, we’ve had to use it a few times … they answer the bell,” Chief Ricciardelli said. The town has an agreement with NEMLEC, which consists of 57 law enforcement agencies that operate according to a mutual aid and assistance agreement. NEMLEC is available to respond to any major incident in Saugus. “The NEMLEC team responded to the Square One Mall in the past when it was believed BUDGET | SEE PAGE 4
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 Page 3 School Committee turns over three old elementary schools to the Town of Saugus By Mark E. Vogler T he Saugus Public Schools has three less schoolhouses to worry about taking care of. School Committee members voted 3-0 last week to turn over the vacant Douglas Waybright Elementary School, the Lynnhurst Elementary School and the Oaklandvale Elementary School to the Town of Saugus. School offi cials were hoping to make the transfer of properties last September, but it took them about six months longer than they wanted to. “With the pandemic and the supply chain issue – trying to get containers, trying to get dumpsters, it just seemed our progress was always hindered,” Executive of Director of Finance Pola G. Andrews told School Committee members at last week’s (March10) meeting. With the unexpected delay in cleaning up the abandoned school buildings, there was a $112,000 utility bill for the three old buildings that wasn’t in the budget. School Committee Member Joseph “Dennis” Gould said he had concerns about turning all three buildings over the town because of a possible increase in school enrollment sparked by the condos and apartments being built on Route 1. Gould asked Saugus Public Schools Superintendent Erin McMahon whether there had been any dialogue with Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree about trying to keep one of the buildings in case there was a need in the future. “At the moment, I would not say there is a need that we are aware of,” McMahon said, noting that the district’s enrollment has dropped by 173 stuGerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law THREE OLD SCHOOL HOUSES: The School Committee recently turned these three buildings, Oaklandvale (above), Waybright (middle), and Lynnhurst over to the Town of Saugus. (Saugus Advocate photos by Mark E. Vogler) 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 dents over the last fi ve years. The superintendent called the closing of the three elementary schools a “herculean eff ort.” There are no immediate plans for use of the school buildings, although it is likely that neighborhood committees could be assembled to recommend future use of the buildings. The town manager will decide what becomes of the buildings after public discussion. The three school buildings were built during the 1960s – Douglas Waybright Elementary School (1965), Lynnhurst Elementary School (1964) and the Oaklandvale Elementary School (1962). The School District decided to close the three elementary schools and consolidate the school system into three buildings after the construction of the Saugus Middle-High School and renovations of the Belmonte Middle School (which became a STEAM Academy) and Veterans Elementary School (which became an early learning center).
Page 4 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 The FY 2023 Budget L ike every other department in Saugus town government, COVID-19 created some unique challenges for the Police Department over the past two years, according to Saugus Police Chief Michael Ricciardelli. The chief noted that the department’s interaction with the public decreased over that period. “Unfortunately, we had to continue to put a lot of community engagement programs on hold,” Chief Ricciardelli wrote in his FY 2023 budget proposal booklet presented to Finance Committee members at Wednesday (March 16) night’s meeting. “Our hope is that we are near the end of the pandemic,” the chief said, adding “so we can continue to reach out to the community with our CitiCIGARCIGAR GIFT P GIFT PACKSACKS UNDER UNDER $50 $50 R.YR.Y.O..O. TOBACCOBACCO -------------------TUBESTUBES We Sell Sell Cigars Cigars & AccessoriesAccessories Chris Dan HUMIDOR SPECIAL!HUMIDOR SPECIAL! $99.95 Complete!$99.95 Complete! Reg. 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CIGAR 170 REVERE ST., REVERE (781) 289-4959 STORE HOURS: Monday - Saturday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Sunday & Holidays: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Steve zen Police Academy, National Night Out, District Attorney’s Summer Camp, Post Overdose Opiate Outreach and National Drug Take Back.” “We will continue to work with town department and different groups/organizations within the town in an effort to engage with the community, develop partnerships and proactively address the concerns of the community,” he said. “In closing, it is the goal of the Saugus Police Department to not only enforce the laws of the commonwealth and the bylaws of the town, but to make a signifi cant impact on the quality of life issues for our residents.” For the most part, Chief Ricciardelli crafted a level-funded budget with very few increases. With the contracts for the Superior Offi cers’ Association and the Saugus Patrolmen’s Police Chief Ricciardelli outlines the key features of his proposed Saugus Police Department spending plan By Mark E. Vogler Association set to expire on June 30 – the end of the current fi scal year, Chief Ricciardelli requested an additional $283,235 in full-time salaries and wages. The 2023 Fiscal Year budget requests $5.8 million for the 51 patrolmen, nine lieutenants, 10 sergeants, one administrative assistant, one principal clerk, one general assistant and one mechanic. In his budget booklet, Chief Ricciardelli noted that the department has increased parking enforcement by hiring an additional part-time enforcement officer. The additional person has resulted in an increase in parking ticket hearings, he said. The chief’s proposed overtime budget is $800,000 for the 2023 fi scal year, the same as the current budget. “The Police Department continues to operate with less than EXPLAINING HIS PLAN: Saugus Police Chief Michael Ricciardelli (left) at Wednesday (March 16) night’s Finance Committee meeting, joined by Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) CigarCigar BundlesBundles starting starting at $49.95 at $49.95 -------------------GIFT CARDSGIFT CARDS AVAILABLEAILABLE BuyBuy Cigars by theCigars by the Box & SA Box & SAVE!VE! CompetitiveCompetitive prices on all prices on all Brands, Great Brands, Great Selection Selection BUDGET | FROM PAGE 2 that an armed suspect was hiding inside Dick’s Sporting Goods,” Chief Ricciardelli said. “As a result of the agreement the Saugus Police Department must commit four of its offi cers to the NEMLEC team. These offi - cers will be required to do eight hours of training per month with NEMLEC. One of our offi cers is also a member of the NEMLEC SWAT team,” the chief said. As a member of the SWAT team, the offi cer is required to do 16 hours of training per month as well as 60 hours of in-service training, he said. “NEMLEC has a Critical Incident Stress Management Team that uses three members of our department. These members will need to train for eight hours each month. The Saugus Police Department is responsible for the training overtime costs of these offi - cers,” the chief said. With the amount of gun violence on K-12 school campuses throughout the country, the chief said the Police Department needs to be trained and prepared for a potential incident at the new Saugus Middle-High School. “With the recent opening of the new High School/Middle School, we believe it would be a great time to begin active shooter classes in the new school,” the chief said. “This would not only allow our officers to continue to familiarize themselves with the layout of a school that they never attended but also give us a chance to run some active shooter response drills.” The chief said he has requested funding for a fourhour block of training for all of the department’s offi cers. Fire Chief Newbury said the Fire Department is in the process of hiring four new fi refi ghters. “That will bring us back to our high-water mark of 60,” he said. our full complement of offi - cers. As a result, the department uses overtime to fi ll vacancies that are created by offi cers taking contractual time off ,” the chief said. “Due to the staffi ng issues anytime one offi cer is absent, the department must fi ll the shift with overtime. The Police Department has had long term offi cer injuries, family medical leave, military drills/deployments and vacancies due to retirements which have added to the ongoing staffi ng issue. The chief’s proposed budget for the 2023 fi scal year includes $316,572 for overtime training – a $60,669 increase over the existing budget. The Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC) has mandated eight hours of professional development training. Recently, the MPTC expanded the hours from eight to 20. The new required training courses include Cultural Competency, Emergencies Involving the Mentally Ill, De-escalation, Human Traffi cking and Offi cer Wellness series. “Training is an investment,” Chief Ricciardelli said. “One of the best ways to jeopardize an organization’s future in today’s world and increase the probability of troubled times is to look at training as a cost,” the chief said. “The price of not providing training or providing substandard training that operates as a Band-Aid for real training is dangerous.”
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 Page 5 The FY 2023 Budget Fire Chief Newbury outlines the key features of his proposed Saugus Fire Department spending plan By Mark E. Vogler he Saugus Fire Department’s aging Ladder 1 truck has already run up a $33,000 repair in the current fi scal year (2022), which ends on June 30. That’s more than half of the department’s mechanic budget for the year, which has already incurred a $2,713 overrun with about T three and a half months left. “That’s the biggest repair I had to deal with as chief,” Saugus Fire Chief Michael C. Newbury told the Finance Committee at Wednesday (March 16) night’s meeting as he briefed committee members on the current fi scal year and his proposed budget for the 2023 Fiscal Year. “It’s nothing to do with abuse …. It’s 15 years later,” the chief said. The purchase of a new ladder truck – which has been estimated by Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree to cost something “north of $1.7 million – is one of several key issues that the chief addressed in his FY 2023 budget proposal booklet presented to Finance Committee members at Wednesday night’s meeting. “Ladder 1 has gone through several major repairs in recent years, including an engine rebuild,” Chief Newbury wrote in a memo to the Finance Committee related to his FY2023 Capital Improvements Requests. “It is the opinion of our Department Mechanic and outside vendors that a replacement should be a priority for the Town. The current ladder truck would be kept as a reserve,” the chief wrote. Other key issues outlined in the chief’s budget booklet include: * Focusing on maintaining an aging fl eet of department vehicles * Addressing facility repairs at both stations, including a capital investment in apparatus bay doors to replace the failing ones currently installed. The chief noted that the Fire Department facilities at both stations need general upkeep and upgrades to maintain operational readiness. “At Central Station the apparatus bay doors are at the end of their useful life. The phone system also needs attention as the organizational structure of the Department has changed,” Chief Newbury said. “Administrative parking could use additions next to the current spots for the Chief offi cers. Essex Street needs upgrades to its communications and the addition of a central climate control system which has been discussed with Facilities. Both stations need general maintenance,” the chief said. In addition, the Fire Department is considering an upes rise, the Melrose Police Department would like to make residents aware of steps they can take to prevent thefts of gasoline from their cars. Thieves may siphon gas, or damage the tank and leave the owner with a large repair bill. Melrose Police have received no such reports, but wish to make the public aware of an increase in thefts nationally. The Department off ers the following safety tips from the American Automobile Association. When you are home • Lock your car doors; this will lock the fuel door • Consider installing a locking gas cap • Do not leave your vehicle running and unattended • Park in a garage or driveway, if possible • Position your car so that the fuel door faces the road, if possible When you are out in public • Park in well-lit areas • If you park in a public gaA BUDGET BRIEFING: Saugus Fire Chief Michael C. Newbury (center) explains his budget to the Finance Committee. At right is Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) grade of existing technology resources. Chief Newbury said an online payment portal would improve the process of collecting fees and invoicing. “We would also like to upgrade the technology in the joining Training Room at Central Station to meet the demands of online and virtual training sessions while enhancing in person trainings,” the chief said. Two thirds (3,263) of the Fire Department’s 4,931 total responses for the 2021 Fiscal Year, which ended on June 30 of last year, involved Emergency Medical Services/Rescue runs. Three percent – or 134 – of the runs involved a response to fi res. False alarms totaled 618 – 13 percent – of the total responses, according to the report presented to the Finance Committee. False alarms have been as high as 900 in previous years, according to Chief Newbury. Police Department Shares Tips to Prevent Gasoline Thefts MELROSE – As energy pricrage, park near an exit or elevator where foot traffi c is high • Do not park in public lots for extended periods, especially if lots are not attended. For example, if you are fl ying, have a family member or friend take you to the airport, or use a shuttle service. Signs you may be a victim • You smell gas as you approach your vehicle • You see a puddle near the fuel tank • You notice scratch marks near the fuel tank door • Your car does not start • Your car starts, but the gauge shows low fuel • The “check engine” light is on The Department asks residents to be aware of their surroundings, and to call 9-11 if they see suspicious behavior in their neighborhood, such as someone they do not know acting strangely around parked cars. $$ CASH FOR YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR SUV! $$ GET YOUR VEHICLE SPRING READY! 2006 CHRYSLER 300 2015 HYUNDAI TUSCON $39.95 TRADES WELCOME! $7,495 Easy Financing Available! PRICE REDUCED! (781) 321-8841 • (617) 571-9869 1236 EasternAve • Malden EddiesAutotech.com For Your Vehicle! $13,900 We Pay Cash
Page 6 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 Decluttering your life Saugus Public Library hosts consultant trained in the KonMari Method of tidying up the home (Editor’s: The following info is from a press release issued by the Saugus Public Library this week on an upcoming program available to town residents through Zoom videoconferencing.) Saugus Public Library invites you to join us on April 5 at 7 p.m. when Shannon Huneycutt will be bringing the life-changing magic of tidying to you through her Spark Joy Program. Saugus Public Library is excited to welcome Huneycutt for an inspiring presentation on what it means to lead a life that Sparks Joy. You will learn the KonMari Method philosophy and guiding principles needed to tidy once and for all, and leave feeling motivated to Spark Joy in your home, office and life. The program’s mission is to provide the necessary skills needed to maintain a tidy home for life. Through the KonMari Method you will visualize and create the space you’ve always dreamed of as you learn what truly Sparks Joy. Be sure to have a standard t-shirt and a pair of pants ready for the folding activity as you will be learning the famous KonMari vertical folding technique. Huneycutt is the founder of Spark Joy Charlotte and a certifi ed Gold level KonMari Consultant trained by tidying expert Marie Kondo. Kondo is the author of “the life-changing magic of tidying up: the Japanese art of decluttering and organizing” and the creator of the KonMari Method, which is a style of tidying focusing on decluttering and organizing your space by keeping only those items you love. When you register you will A HOME TIDYING SPECIALIST: Shannon Huneycutt, who specializes in decluttering and organizing homes, will lead a virtual program for Saugus residents on April 5. To register email sau@noblenet.org with “Spark Joy” in the subject line. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) be entered to win the “Jumpstart Your Journey” giveaway where you will have access to a virtual guide to help jumpstart your tidying journey. The COVID-19 Update Town reports 12 newly-confi rmed cases over the past seven days; no new deaths By Mark E. Vogler T here was more good news on the COVID-19 front in Saugus this week. The number of confi rmed cases dropped from 13 last week to 12 over the past seven days through yesterday (Thursday, March 17), according to Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree. This week ’s positive COVID-19 cases reported to the town by the state DepartOBITUARIES Richard R. “Dick” Dewling Age 87, died on March 12 at his home in Saugus. He was the husband of Mary Ann (Cunha) Dewling with whom he shared 65 years of marriage. Born March 11, 1935 in New London, Connecticut he was the son of the late Mark and Concetta (Montemarino) Dewling. He served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Japan as a paratrooper and the Middle East as a member of the boxing team. Mr. Dewling attended Butera School of Art and specialized in painting and sculpture. He worked for many years as a General Contractor. He enjoyed panning for ment of Public Health (DPH) increased the overall total to 8,604 confirmed cases, according to Crabtree. In addition, the overall number of deaths since March of 2020 dropped from 106 to 88 because of a change in the guidelines used by health offi cials. “Our hearts and prayers go out to those families aff ected by this health pandemic,” Crabtree said. This is a free Zoom program, but registration is required. To register email sau@ noblenet.org with “Spark Joy” in the subject line. Meanwhile, Saugus Public Schools experienced the same number of cases in its four buildings – seven – during a period ending this week (March 10-16) as it did last week (March 3-9). This week, there was one case in the High School, three in the Middle School, two in the Belmonte STEAM Academy and one in the Veterans Early Learning Center. Last week, there were no cases in the High School, one in the Middle School, two in the Belmonte STEAM Academy and four in the Veterans Early Learning Center. Jennifer Greene and her husband John and Adam Dewling, grandchildren; Carl Ryan Sanders, John Greene, Steven Sanders, Jessica Greene Preston, Richard Dewling, Adam Dewling, Jacob Dewling and 12 great grandchildren. Mr. Dewling is also survived by his sonin-law Carl Sanders, 2 sisters; Joan Bonia & Charlotte Dellelo, 1 brother; John Dewling and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his daughter Debra Sanders and 1 brother. Donations in his memogold, was an avid hunter and fi sherman, loved his sled dog team, seaplane and his dogs. Mr. Dewling enjoyed his life to the fullest. Besides his wife he is survived by his children; Richard Dewling and his wife Mary Ellen, ry may be made to the Fisher House of Boston at fi sherhouseboston.org.
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 Page 7 AG Healey off ers guidance to avoid charity fraud in wake of Ukraine invasion A ttorney General Maura Healey recently advised Massachusetts residents to make informed decisions when donating to charities that support people aff ected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the ensuing humanitarian crisis. “Many people across our state are watching the heartbreaking humanitarian impacts of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and asking how they can help people aff ected by the confl ict,” said Healey. “In order to maximize the impact of your donations and avoid deceptive solicitations, it’s vital to do your research and make informed decisions on where you are giving.” Healey recommends that residents take the following steps to make smart and impactful charitable contributions to support those who have been aff ected: * Give to charities you know and can trust: Well-established charities with experience in the cause you are seeking to support and organizations established with support from government agencies can be good places to donate. The Massachusetts Attorney General’s Offi ce maintains annual fi nancial reports from charities and professional solicitors that operate in this state, which are available for public inspection online. You might also wish to review an organization’s federal Form 990 on the IRS website. * Check the charity’s website: If you are contributing over the internet, make sure that the website you are visiting belongs to a legitimate and established charity. Be advised that most crowdfunding sites are not charities and many typically take a percentage of your donation as a fee. * Ask lots of questions: How much of the money goes to the charity and how much to a professional fundraiser? Ask if your contribution is tax deductible and what the charity intends to do with any excess contributions that might remain after the victims’ needs are addressed. Baker files $9.7B Infrastructure Bond Bill G overnor Charlie Baker, Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito, Transportation Secretary and CEO Jamey Tesler, Energy and Environmental Aff airs Secretary Kathleen Theoharides and MBTA General Manager Steve Poftak recently announced the filing of “An Act Relative to Massachusetts’s Transportation Resources and Climate,” (MassTRAC) a $9.7 billion infrastructure bond bill. This bill will advance and support signifi cant investments in the Commonwealth’s transportation and environmental infrastructure, as well as provide critical and required state matching funds to compete for, unlock and leverage federal formula and discretionary investments provided by the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) enacted in November 2021. “This infrastructure bill will support the investment of $9.7 billion in the Commonwealth’s roads, bridges, railways, transit agencies and environmental infrastructure,” said Baker. “Building upon the BIL, this legislation will make a meaningful diff erence in the acceleration of projects that are set to receive federal funding and we look forward to working with the members of the Legislature to pass this bill.” “Our Administration continues to work closely with our statewide municipal partners to help identify ways in which they can make further improvements to their transportation infrastructure,” said Polito. “This legislation includes additional authorization to support investments in cities and towns to promote bicycle and pedestrian safety and invigorate our downtown community public spaces through several grant programs.” The legislation includes $6.2 billion to support core federal formula programs for highway, transit, and environmental projects. The funding authorized under BIL provides the Commonwealth with an opportunity to increase investments in roads, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure, with a focus on climate change mitigation, resiliency, equity, and safety for all users, particularly cyclists and pedestrians. This bill will facilitate the ongoing eff orts of MassDOT and the MBTA to invest in and modernize the Commonwealth’s transportation system, and includes $3.5 billion in potential state matching resources to support the aggressive pursuit of new and existing federal discretionary and competitive grant programs available under the BIL. “This $9.7 billion bond bill will enable the Commonwealth to take full advantage of the opportunities made available through the federal infrastructure legislation and continue critical support for core transportation and environmental infrastructure work,” said Administration and Finance Secretary Michael Heffernan. “Authorizing these investments will pave the way for historic economic growth that will benefi t residents across Massachusetts, and we look forward to working with the Legislature to pass this bill into law.” “This bond bill supports our efforts to rebuild, modernize, and expand the capacity of the Commonwealth’s transportation system and aggressively pursue and compete for discretionary grant funding to advance major projects,” said Tesler. “On behalf of the Baker-Polito Administration, I would like to express appreciation to the members of the Legislature and advocates for their support of our eff orts to advance infrastructure investments.” “Governor Baker’s $9.7 billion Infrastructure Bond Bill will dedicate once in a lifetime funding for important transportation and environmental projects that will directly benefi t the Commonwealth today and well into the future,” said Theoharides. “Importantly, this funding will enable the Commonwealth to make signifi cant investments in zero emission vehicle programs and infrastructure, which will further the Baker-Polito Administration’s efforts to decarbonizing the state’s transportation system.” Provisions of this bill would enable MassDOT and the MBTA to use certain project procurement and delivery tools that could speed the implementation of BIL funded projects, as well as regular project delivery. MassDOT and the MBTA would be authorized to pilot the A + B procurement method to allow BAKER | SEE PAGE 8 * Beware of social media posts or emails soliciting donations to copycat organizations or fake websites: Even if a social media fundraiser seems legitimate, do your research to determine what organization you are donating to, what percentage of your donation is going to the charity, whether you will be charged a fee or if a percentage of your donation will be paid to the platform website. * Do not give your personal or financial information to anyone soliciting money: Never give your Social Security number or other personal information in response to a charitable solicitation. Review the charity’s privacy policy to fi nd out if your information will be shared with outside companies. * Never pay by cash: Pay by check or credit card and make a check out directly to the charity – not the fundraiser or any other individual. Specify on the check and in writing, whenever possible, the purpose of your donation. Consumers with concerns about solicitations they have received should contact the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Offi ce’s Non-Profi t Organizations/Public Charities Division at 617-963-2101 or access the complaint form online. For additional tips on donating, consumers may also review Healey’s Give Wisely Advisory.
Page 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 ADVOCATE | FROM PAGE 1 He has been a very stabilizing member of the Roll to DC Committee,” he said. Pinette has been helping to organize an expenses-paid trip for local Vietnam War Era veterans to Washington, D.C., this fall to see “The Wall” and other monuments. He served in the Marines from 1973-1976 and as a reservist from 1976-1996. He was activated for service during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He served as an Operations/ Communications Chief and was responsible for the leadership and management of BAKER | FROM PAGE 7 the time to complete a project to be considered in bid evaluation and award. Additionally, Private Development Mitigation/Transit Oriented Development auMarines who served in a variety of technical and combat support roles. Pinette retired as a Master Gunnery Sergeant in 1996. He has a BS in Management (1996) and an MBA in Operations Management (2000) from Bentley College. After serving in the military, Pinette spent 27 years in private business. He retired in 2017 from his career as a Senior Management/Principal Engineer from Thermo Cardiosystems, a medical device company that makes heart pumps for transplant patients. In March of 2018, he took the VSO position. Saunders will have close to three weeks to work with thorization would allow MassDOT and the MBTA to enter into development agreements that include transportation and other public benefi ts without having to separately bid for those elements. • • • Pinette. Saunders is currently the school certifying offi cer at the Danvers campus of North Shore Community College. Previously, he worked as the veteran coordinator at Endicott College. He worked as a combat engineer while based in Fort Riley, Kansas. Saunders was deployed twice in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. His duties included route clearance, house searches, munitions detonation, annual weapons qualifi cations and vehicle maintenance. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in writing, literature and publishing from Emerson College in 2018. “The funding in the Infrastructure Bond Bill will allow the MBTA to fully harness opportunities in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, both with the match for Federal Formula funds and to help us take advantage of future discretionary funding opportunities,” said Poftak. “Thank you to the Baker-Polito Administration, our MassDOT colleagues, local elected leaders, and transit advocates for continuing to work to upgrade and modernize the MBTA.” This bill includes additional authorization for existing appropriations for the federal aid and non-federal aid programs to allow MassDOT and the MBTA to continue and accelerate work, taking advantage of the historic increase in annual federal apportionments over the next fi ve years, while also providing the authorization needed to pursue new federal competitive and discretionary grants and support new investments in clean transporFAREWELL SAUGUS: Veterans Service Offi cer Jay Pinette plans to retire next month after advocating for local veterans for four years. (Saugus Advocate fi le photo by Mark E. Vogler) tation and the environment. These signifi cant investments, empowered by both reauthorized and increased federal funding within the BIL, will be transformational for the Commonwealth. The bond bill also provides additional authorization to support investments in cities and towns to promote bicycle and pedestrian safety, improve municipal transportation asset conditions, and invigorate downtown community public spaces through several successful grant programs. Some of these programs include the Complete Streets Funding Program, Municipal Small Bridge, Municipal Pavement and Shared Streets and Spaces Program. Highlights of the $9.7 billion MassTRAC bill include: · $6.2 billion to support core programs for Highway, Transit, and Energy and Environmental Aff airs (EEA) · $2.8 billion in authorization related to the increased federal formula funding in BIL · $2.5 billion for Highway federal aid and non-federal aid BIL support · $27.1 million for the MassDOT Aeronautics Division to support and leverage increased Federal Aviation Administration grants to public use airports · $64.9 million to support increased federal funding for Regional Transit Authorities · $145 million for state match funds required for the increased federal funding for the MBTA · $200 million to support EEA’s Clean Transportation program · $3.3 billion to support the MassDOT and MBTA capital programs through 2026 · $1.79 billion (federal aid and non-federal aid) for MassDOT Aeronautics, Highway, Rail & Transit, and Offi ce of Transportation Planning to support our capital program through 2026 · $150.8 million in new federal aid authorization for Highway to utilize the funding provided under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) · $85 million authorization to improve the condition of our non-interstate pavement on the National Highway System · $55 million in additional authorization to support investments in our cities and towns to promote bicycle and pedestrian safety, improve municipal transportation asset conditions, and invigorate our downtown community public spaces through several successful grant programs: Complete Streets, Small Municipal Bridge, Municipal Pavement, and Shared Streets and Spaces · $400 million for the MBTA to continue to invest in the modernization of its infrastructure and vehicles · $830 million to support the purchase of a new fl eet MBTA Green Line cars that are more energy effi cient · $3.55 billion to support pursuit of federal discretionary and competitive grant program funding
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 Page 9 Restoration project begins at the Saugus Iron Works W By Mark E. Vogler ork got underway this week on a restoration project on the grounds of the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site. National Park Service officials say work crews will be replacing much of the charging bridge and casting shed roof of the blast furnace. The purpose of the maintenance project is to replace aging wooden beams, decking and other elements to maintain and improve the safety and condition of these structures. “A substantial portion of the upper lawn and a perimeter around the blast furnace and casting shed will be fenced off for materials, equipment storage (including a large crane) and work area,” according to a press release issued by the National Park Service. “The remaining unfenced lawn areas, entrances to the park and all other pathways through the park will remain open to the public unless construction activities require additional temporary closures to ensure safety. Work and access areas of the upper lawn will be protected with heavy landscape fabric and gravel placed on top of the turf to protect the lawn and archeological resources.” National Park Service officials expect the work being performed will generate increased noise. But, they say, the disruption will be minimized by having construction activity primarily take place Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Completion of the project is expected this summer. Please visit the park website to follow the progress of the project – https://www. nps.gov/articles/000/preservation-and-restoration.htm. Saugus Advocate photos by Mark E. Vogler Everett Aluminum 10 Everett Ave., Everett 617-389-3839 Owned & operated by the Conti Years! “Same name, phone number & address for over half a century. We must be doing something right!” f www.everettaluminum.com MALDEN TRANS NOW HIRING!!! CDL SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS, 7D DRIVERS & TAXI DRIVERS COMPETITIVE PAY OFFERED $17/HR - 7D DRIVERS $26/HR - CDL DRIVERS CALL TO INQUIRE - 781-322-9400 OR 781-322-9401 - ASK FOR DAVID OR ED Spring is Here!
Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 Saugus Middle School hockey team completes fi ne season T By Greg Phipps he Saugus High School hockey team was not the only local squad that made a playoff appearance in 202122. The Saugus Middle School squad put together an unbeaten regular season in the Valley Middle School Hockey League (VMSHL) and had a lot of fun in the process. Second-year Head Coach Marc Magliozzi pointed out that although the team adopted the Saugus Sachems moniker it is not affi liated with the school in any way. All of the players are from Saugus and participate in various other youth leagues in the area as well as the VMSHL. “There have been other coaches that have put together middle school teams. I chose to put this team in the [VMSHL] because of the proximity of the rinks and the parity in the league,” explained Magliozzi, who added that the Saugus youth program, which is not affiliated with the VMSHL, is partnered with another community (Lynnfield). “So this is the first time many of the players get a chance to represent Saugus,” he said. The Sachems fi nished 8-02 in the regular season before being defeated in the semifi - nals by Lincoln-Sudbury. Saugus received a bye in the quarterfi nal round. The Sachems outscored opponents 48-13 during the regular season and Saugus player Jack Cuddy played to two ties against Lincoln-Sudbury and Burlington. Magliozzi said the team was fortunate to avoid any COVID-19-related schedule changes and missed only one contest due to a snowstorm cancellation. “We had a very balanced team with scoring occurring throughout the lineup,” he said. Having the opportunity to wear a uniform with the Saugus Sachems label is a plus and perhaps a precursor to a future spot on the high school team, according to Magliozzi. The players compete for other teams during other times of the year. Or they play with other teams while the VMSHL seaSaugus players Brayden Verone and Andre Rosales in action during the season son is in session. The VMSHL campaign runs from December to February. “I have been coaching youth hockey for 10 years now, and one of the greatest takeaways this season was seeing the number of [Saugus] kids play together that ordinarily wouldn’t,” Magliozzi said. “We have players representing the North Shore Stars, North Suburban Wings, Mass Bay Chiefs, Middlesex Icemen, Lynn Youth Hockey, and the Boston Americans. Yet they all live in Saugus. They play at diff erent levels and [with] diff erent age groups.” The team’s cohesiveness while playing in the same unit impressed the coach. Magliozzi recalled instances when players would be coming from a game where they had competed against each other to reversing roles and sharing the bench as members of the Saugus squad. “It was a pretty cool sight to see,” he said. “Seeing them come together for a common goal was the best reward. Overall, I’m just happy the kids had fun.” Magliozzi said he could not have handled the number of kids on this year’s team during game situations without help from assistant coaches Tony Matrocola and Sean Alexander. “I’m not sure what next year will bring but if there is enough interest, I would be interested in putting something together again,” Magliozzi added. This year’s team was sponsored by WIN Waste Innovations. Players on this year’s Saugus team were Louis Migliore, Domenic Magliozzi, Cole Alexander, Demetri Breton, Jack Cuddy, Johnny O’Donnell, John Morello, Jayden Encarnacao, James Caruso, Connor Lacey, Andre Rosales, Alex Rinaldi, Charlie Lauziere, Cam Marchand, Joey Mastrocola, Trey Riley, Drew Ferreira, Conor Herbert, Dalton Diozzi, Brayden Verone, Jake Kelley and Denim Dembro. Saugus player Demetri Breton Saugus player Domenic Magliozzi Saugus player John Morello (Photos Courtesy of Meghann Breton)
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 Page 11 SAUGUS GARDENS IN THE WINTER Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable By Laura Eisener S pring has arrived right on time! Today we enjoy the full moon of March, which is known as the “worm moon” since the ground is thawing suffi ciently to allow worms to crawl to the surface. I have seen several robins running around on lawns this week, having fi nally been able to abandon their search for remaining berries on the shrubs. Hope they remembered to turn their clocks ahead, so they would be early enough to catch the worm! Ice out has occurred on the ponds, so the eagles, ospreys and swans have a greater selection of habitats. This Sunday, March 20, marks the vernal equinox – also known as the fi rst day of astronomical spring. Gradually our familiar seasonal activities are resuming – we are still missing the New England Flower Show. It closed early in 2020 as the COVID epidemic developed, and its absence in 2021 and this year are still keenly felt since it was a seasonal milestone since the late 19th century. Nevertheless, this week’s warmer weather and blooming fl owers confi rm that the calendar is correct and spring has sprung! Among our wild plants, often the first to bloom are wind-pollinated juniper and other conifers, but their fl owers are not very showy. Skunk cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus), while not among the most popular garden fl owers due to its decidedly un-roselike scent, is a vital part of our wild landscape and a sure indication that the ground is warming. By mid-March I am always on “crocus watch.” Soil warms up most quickly on the south side of a house or wall, since heat reflects off the building and it also blocks the cold winds which tend to come from the northwest and northeast. Rocks, such as those in a stone wall or foundation, or even loose rocks from New England’s famously rocky soils, can store the sun’s warmth into the night, so if you want your spring bulbs to bloom as early as possible this would be the place to put them. The north side of the house gets much less sunlight and stays cool longer, so it is not unusual to fi nd the same kind of bulb blooming up to two A SURE SIGN OF SPRING: A patch of purple crocus blooms along the nature trail on the east side of the Saugus River at the Saugus Iron Works. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) SKUNK CABBAGE is beginning to bloom along the river at the Saugus Iron Works. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) WITCH HAZEL: Yellow flowers of a hybrid bloom against the blue sky. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) weeks earlier on the south side than the north. While planting under trees will affect some periods of the fl owers’ growth, because there are no leaves yet on deciduous trees it does not aff ect early spring bloom times. Later, when the leaves of such bulbs as crocus (Crocus spp.), tulips (Tulipa spp.) and daff odils (Narcissus spp.) have developed, tree shade will be a factor, but right now the soil under deciduous trees is getting quite a bit of sun. I’ve seen a few crocuses in bloom as I drive around town, but the ones in my garden have all been devoured by rabbits or had their bulbs devoured by voles. Rising populations of some of these animals have caused a decline in certain kinds of bulbs, especially crocuses and tulips. Some of the earliest shrubs to bloom are the hybrid witch hazels (Hamamelis intermedia and some others). While our native common witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) blooms in the fall (it is abunTWO COLORS ON DISPLAY: Yellow and purple Dutch hybrid crocus bloom on a south facing foundation near Saugus Center. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) dant in Breakheart Reservation), these Asian hybrids bloom in late winter to early spring. The fl owers are similar in appearance, with four narrow, ribbonlike petals often described as looking like confetti. The fl owers are usually yellow, but a few varieties have reddish or orange petals. While the blossoms are not very large, they bloom nearly a month before forsythia, and are welcomed by everyone impatient for spring. There is one near Saugus Center that I planted for a client a few decades ago. The house has changed hands at least three times since then, and during that time the shrub has grown up to the second fl oor. It is blooming this week. Like our native species, the flower has a fresh but not overwhelmingly sweet fragrance. It is hard to know whether to call this a shrub or a small tree, since the plant can reach over 20 feet tall. Witch hazel bark extracts have long been used as a skin tonic or applied to skin to soothe minor bites and irritations. As a garden plant, this is not only a very early bloomer but also has nice yellow fall color, and it can be grown in a sunny or shady location. Editor’s Note: Laura Eisener is a landscape design consultant who helps homeowners with landscape design, plant AN EARLY BLOOMING SHRUB: Japanese/Chinese hybrid witch hazel branches are in bloom in a front yard near Saugus Center. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) selection and placement of trees and shrubs, as well as perennials. She is a member of the Saugus Garden Club and off ered 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. THIS WEEK ON SAUGUS TV Sunday, March 20 from 9–11 p.m. on Channel 8 – “Sunday Night Stooges” (The Three Stooges). Monday, March 21 all day on Channel 8 – “Movie Monday” (classic movies). Tuesday, March 22 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 9 – Finance Committee Meeting from March 16. Wednesday, March 23 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 9 – Planning Board Meeting from March 17. Thursday, March 24 at 6 p.m. on Channel 9 – School Committee Meeting ***live***. Friday, March 25 at 6:30 p.m. on Channel 22 – Saugus High School singing group Tonal Chaos. Saturday, March 26 at 5 p.m. on Channel 8 – Saugus United 2035 Master Plan Presentation Forum from March 16. Saugus TV can be seen on Comcast Channels 8, 9 & 22. For complete schedules, please visit www.saugustv.org. ***programming may be subject to change without notice***
Page 12 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 By Mark E. Vogler THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS “The soft lights and lamp lit atmosphere adds amWe have a winner! Congratulations to Frances Palczynski for making the right identifi cation in last week’s “Guess Who got Sketched!” Contest. He was one of several readers answering correctly, and the one who had his name selected from the green Boston Red Sox cap. Here’s the correct answer, off ered by the person who goes by the name of The Sketch Artist: “The answer to last week’s sketch is of the owner of the Nostalgic, family-owned Continental Restaurant, Mr. Paul Kourkoulis! “Paul’s Father, Athos, bought the Continental and Paul has been the Owner & President for over 20 years. “The Restaurant has been successfully serving customers for over 70 years. “Paul’s Continental Restaurant was chosen to be featured & highlighted in an upcoming movie (see front page article in Saugus Advocate 2/25) by Mark E. Vogler. “Paul was featured in The Saugus Advocate in the “The Advocate Asks” by column Mark E. Vogler (2/25 pages 3, 6 7, 8 15, 21) “Paul’s Dad Athos started 10 year old Paul in the family business by standing on a milk crate washing dishes. “Paul received a Bachelor of Science (Providence College, 1988) & a Juris Doctor from New England Law School (Boston 1991) He was admitted to the Ma. Bar 1991 and is a current Saugus Attorney. “The Continental decor has changed very little since 1952. They have it upgraded & reupholstered often; however, they keep the old patterns & warm feeling theme that their diners prefer. “Continental is a buono, clean spacious welcoming spot conducive to table talk conversations, celebrations & group events. CONTEST SKETCH OF THE WEEK biance to an un-rushed, enjoyable dining experience. Continental is memorable to many for their signature popovers and their ‘Early Bird Specials.’ “Such a lovely multi-functional restaurant with plenty of parking. Many loyal customers & Saugonians are looking forward to seeing the Continental in the upcoming 70’s based movie ‘The Holdovers’ “Keep shining and excelling … The Continental is a multi faceted gem that gives off that Old Country aura! “Eccellent? “Yours truly, “The Sketch Artist” A Shout-Out to “Shadow Day” mentors We did not receive any nominations from readers this week for people who deserved to be publicly singled out for acts that lead to the betterment of Saugus or make their hometown proud. So, I will use my editorial prerogative to recognize everyone who participated in yesterday’s (Thursday, March 17) Shadow Day. Hats off to the Saugus Business Education Collaborative for sponsoring the event, which paired up 32 Saugus High School juniors who shadowed individuals at local businesses or government offi ces. The long list of partnering businesses include the Veterans Early Learning Center, the Belmonte Steam Academy, the Saugus Middle School, Suff olk County District Court, Putnam Investments, Mass General Hospital, the Saugus Police Department, the Saugus Fire Department, Saugus Youth & Recreation, Nutrition Whole Health Solutions, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute – DeCaprio Lab, Little Treasures Schoolhouse, Phipps 24-Hour Roadside Assistance, PTC Software, Saugus TV, Saugus Town Offi ces, Wheelabrator, North Shore Neurology and Saugus Animal Hospital. Hats off to the folks at Prince Pizzeria for hosting a lunch for all of the participants. This was a day when students got to learn about potential careers through hands-on experience, by shadowing people on the job. Help the Vietnam Era vets roll to DC A special fundraiser is set for Tuesday, March 29, from Noon to 9 p.m. at the Dockside Restaurant at 1099 Main St. in Wakefi eld. Whether it’s dine-in, takeout, order delivery or curbside at the Dockside, 10 percent of your bill will be donated to the Veterans Wall trip. There will be raffl es for the cause. Money earned from this fundraiser will help to send 45 Vietnam Era vets from Melrose, Saugus and Wakefi eld on a fi ve-day four-night coach bus trip from Sept. 11-15. 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@ GUESS WHO GOT SKETCHED! If you know the right answer, you might win the contest. 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 was sketched this week? If you do, please email me at mvoge@comcast.net or leave a phone message at 978683-7773. Anyone who between now and Tuesday at noon identifi es the Saugonian sketched in this week’s paper qualifi es to have their name put in a green Boston Red Sox hat with a chance to be selected as the winner of a $10 gift certifi cate, compliments of Dunkin’ in the Food Court at the Saugus Square One Mall. But you have to enter to win! Look for the winner and identifi cation 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”) comcast.net) with a mention in the subject line of “An Extra Shout-Out.” No more than a paragraph; anything longer might lend itself to a story and/or a photo. Riverside Cemetery Spring Cleanup The Town of Saugus Cemetery Department announced that spring grounds cleanup will begin at the Riverside Cemetery on Monday, April 11. The Cemetery Commission kindly asks members of the public to remove any personal and/or holiday/seasonal items from the grounds before the cleanup begins. All Veterans fl ags will be placed back on gravesites in May, prior to Memorial Day. For more information, please contact the Cemetery Department at 781231-4170 or email Stacy Billingsley at sbillingsley@ saugus-ma.gov. Lenten Bible Study at St. John’s St. John’s Episcopal Church in Saugus will be spearheading a global Lenten Bible Study on a passage from the Book of Isaiah for members and friends of: * St. John’s Episcopal Church, Saugus * All Saints Anglican Church, Rome, Italy * St. John’s Vankleek Hill and other Churches in Eastern Ontario, Canada * The Church of the Annunciation, Chislehurst (London, UK) For those who are interested, here is the schedule: March 24 – Isaiah 40:1-10 (Call of the Prophet) March 31 – Isaiah 42:1-9 (First Servant Song) These Gatherings will take place on Zoom and will begin on each of the Thursdays at noon Eastern Standard Time. Please contact The Rev. John Beach at revjbeach@ gmail.com to register – or by phone at 774-961-9881. Main attractions at the Saugus Public Library There’s always something interesting or entertaining going on at the Saugus Public Library – for people of all ages – from young children to senior citizens. Here are some programs coming up at the Saugus Public Library in March that might be worth checking out. Please join us for any or all of these programs. They’re all free on Zoom, but registration is required for each program. See our website for registration links or follow the links below: Tuesday, March 29, at 7 p.m.: “author Neal Thompson will discuss his new book, The First Kennedys: The Humble Roots of an American Dynasty. “The fi rst American Kennedys – Patrick and Bridget – arrived as many thousands of others did following the Great Famine in Ireland – penniless and hungry. Patrick’s sudden death left Bridget to raise their children single-handedly. Her rise from housemaid to shop owner in the face of rampant poverty and discrimination kept her family intact, allowing her only son P.J. to become a successful saloon owner and businessman. P.J. went on to become the fi rst American Kennedy elected to public offi ce – the fi rst of many. “Neal Thompson is a former newspaper reporter and the author of fi ve highly acclaimed books.” Register at https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/1916448608456/WN_riegQrvSSAa_IOQXHZAiwg Wednesday, Mar 30, at 11 a.m.: “Discover The Joys of Bird Feeding with the Mass Audubon Society. “Stay connected to nature while stuck inside, by feeding the birds. Sign up for this program to explore diff erent feeder types, the best seed to put in them, the birds they’ll attract, how to outsmart squirrels, and other ways to encourage birdlife into your yard and community. The program is led by Scott Santino, the Education Manager and Teacher Naturalist at the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary in Topsfi eld, where he has been leading nature education programs for Mass Audubon since 1999.” Register at https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/9316448635422/WN_WTYDSNQoQMG7H-1a2_ jRPQ Wednesday, March 30, 7 p.m.: “when WBZ’s Jordan Rich & court reporter Diane Godfrey Discuss Their True Crime Podcast ‘All Rise’. “Diane and co-host Jordan of WBZ Radio will give you a behind-the-scenes look at some of our state’s craziest and most compelling cases and show you what goes into making a successful podcast. “Diane Godfrey has had a 30-year career in courthouses throughout the Massachusetts Judicial System. Jordan Rich, the host of WBZ AM 1030 Radio’s The Jordan Rich Show has reached listeners across the nation and beyond.” Register at https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/3816448635585/WN_XEFytUF7QdS-ogP0cu1vMg SHS Class of ’62 plans 60th reunion Leaders of the Saugus High School Class of 1962 would like you to “save the date.” Their 60th Class Reunion will be held on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022, from 1 to 5 p.m. at Prince Pizzeria in Saugus. They are reaching out to contact fellow classmates as well as other classes who would like to join them. THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | SEE PAGE 13
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 Page 13 THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | FROM PAGE 12 The well-known 50’s and 60’s music group of Howie Conley will be there for musical enjoyment. Those of you who have heard them know what a performance they put on. There will be pizza and salad combinations plus soft drinks. The price includes all you can eat, tax and gratuities – plus Howie Conley’s group – and is $29 per person. There is a bar available for wine, beer and mixed drinks. There is no need to purchase tickets at this time. Please let one of the following people know of your interest either by a phone call or a text message so that you can be easily reached when the time draws near. No commitment is necessary. They are just exploring the number of interested classmates. * Donna “Cann” Olivera – 781-987-4308 * Jonni “Giantonio” Matrona – 781-439-4200 * Janice “Cristiano” Pomeroy – 617-512-2097 * Larry Seavers – 704-906-2606 SAVE announces 2022 Environmental Scholarship Saugus Action Volunteers for the Environment (SAVE) is very pleased to announce that it is off ering a $1,000 Environmental Scholarship to Saugus residents of the Graduating Class of 2022. This is a scholarship for students who will be attending a two/fouryear college or other educational institution and pursuing a degree in an area that would positively impact the environment. Applicants can download the SAVE 2022 Environmental Scholarship Application Form found at www. saugusSAVE.org. Together with the completed application form, please include a separate sheet (identifi ed with your initials only) that provides a summary of any of your activities relating to the environment and describe how you feel your career choice will positively impact the environment. Please mail your application (postmarked by April 22, 2022) to: SAVE, P.O. Box 908, Saugus, MA 01906 or email your application (no later than midnight on April 22, 2022) to: SAVE Co-President Ann Devlin, at adevlin@aisle10.net. Again, the deadline to submit your application is April 22, 2022. A Scholarship available to Saugus High seniors Greater Lynn Senior Services (GLSS) has announced it is accepting scholarship applications from Saugus High School (SHS) seniors through the Lique Human Services Scholarship. Two $5,000 scholarships will be awarded to students who have an interest in or are considering a career in human services and who have made an impact in their community or the world through community service. Completed scholarship applications are due to the SHS Guidance Offi ce by Friday, April 1, 2022. The Lique Human Services Scholarship will be awarded to two seniors who attend one of the eight high schools located in GLSS’ service area of Lynn, Lynnfi eld, Nahant, Saugus and Swampscott. The scholarship is named in memory of Vince Lique, the Agency’s longtime Executive Director who devoted his career to helping others, particularly vulnerable senior citizens and people of all ages with disabilities, demanding that all people be treated with dignity and respect. “Vince’s legacy is fi rmly rooted in his compassion for people. He measured success by the quality of his service to and advocacy for others,” said Kathryn C. Burns, MHA, GLSS’ Chief Executive Offi cer. “I believe in Vince’s theory that one’s individual success is directly related to the benefi ts received by those around us. The Lique Human Services scholarship honors the man and his service by encouraging others to do the same.” Application forms are available through the Saugus High School Guidance Offi ce or on GLSS’ website. For more information about GLSS, visit www.glss.net. A rabies vaccination clinic in May Town Clerk Ellen Schena wants cat and dog owners to know about an upcoming rabies vaccination clinic that is set for Wednesday, May 4 from 4 to 6 p.m. This is for cats and dogs only. This will take place at the Animal Shelter at the rear of the DPW Building (515 Rear Main St. in Saugus). The vaccination costs $10 and can be paid by cash or check only. State law requires all dog owners to license their dogs. Food pantry seeking driver volunteers The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry seeks volunteers to make food and bread pickups on Thursdays and Fridays from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Anyone who has the time and interest to help out should contact Jeff Hirtle at 781-922-0661. The food pantry operates out of the basement at Cliftondale Congregational Church at 50 Essex St. in Saugus. Friday morning Legion Hall breakfasts Here’s some great news for people who enjoy their Friday morning breakfasts at the Saugus American Legion Cpl Scott J. Procopio Post 210. Legion Hall, which is located at 44 Taylor St., resumed its Friday breakfasts and will continue through the last Friday in May of 2022. The buff et breakfast is served at 8:00 a.m. for a donation of $7. Bon app?tit! And good luck to the Kitchen Crew. Looking for book donations The New Friends of the Saugus Public Library are asking for donations of gently used adult hardcover and softcover fi ction for the ongoing book sale in the Community Room. They would also appreciate donations of gently used children’s books. Please limit donations at this time to only fi ction and children’s books; they do not have storage space for other genres or media. Please...clean and newer books only. No tattered pages, bad odors, stains or dirty covers! Books may be dropped off at the Main Circulation Desk during business hours. Please do not place donations in the outdoor book drops. Live Bingo at the Kowloon The Kowloon Restaurant will continue with Bingo every Wednesday through March 30 from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Hong Kong Lounge. Prizes will be given away each week with a grand prize set at the fi nale. A full Chinese gourmet spread is available during Bingo – featuring pupu platters, egg rolls, crab Rangoons, Saugus Wings, General Gau’s chicken, lobster sauce, fried scallops, lo mein, moo shu pork, salt & pepper calamari and sushi – along with a full bar menu, including the signature mai tais. Call the Kowloon Restaurant at 781-233-0077 to reserve your table. Compost Site open tomorrow The Town of Saugus reminds residents that the community’s compost site and recycling center will be open tomorrow (Saturday, March 19) from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The site is located behind the Department of Public Works at 515 Main St. Yard waste must be disposed of in brown compost bags or open containers. The Town will accept grass clippings, leaves and brush. As in years past, no branches or limbs larger than three inches in diameter are permitted. At this time residents will not need a compost site sticker to access the site. Residents may call Lorna Cerbone at the Solid Waste and Recycling Department at 781-231-4036 with questions or for more information. Jumpstart your Financial Future Just starting out? Join the fi nal two segments of this virtual four-part program to acquire the skills for long-term fi nancial prosperity and independence. Explore real-world fi nancial situations to build lifelong strategies for budgeting, building credit, saving for retirement, and more. This is a free program for ages 17–30 presented in cooperation with The Babson Financial Literacy Project (BFLP), the Saugus Public Library and several local libraries. See sauguspubliclibrary.org to register for one session or both remaining ones. Decisions! Decisions! Tuesday, April 5, 7-8 p.m. – Matt Trogdon (presenter). Health Insurance? Retirement? Investing? Join us to gain some important insights on how to make these essential decisions. Protecting You and Your Assets: Tuesday, April 19, 7-8 p.m. – Jennifer Bethel (presenter). This workshop will help you prepare for the fi nancial challenges ahead. For more information, contact the Saugus Public Library at 295 Central St., Saugus, MA 01906,. Or call 781-231-4168 or check out sauguspubliclibrary.org. Want to be a Knight? The Knights of Columbus is looking for new members to join. If interested in becoming a member of this local organization, please call 781-233-9858. Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus Program (Editor’s Note: The following info is from an announcement submitted by Julie Cicolini, a member of the Board of Directors for Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus.) Who we are: Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus (HS2) is a nonprofi t group of volunteers who are helping to off set food insecurity in households. HS2 provides students/families that enroll in the program a supply of nutritious food for when school lunches and breakfasts are unavailable to them on weekends. How HS2 can help you: HS2 bags are distributed at school on Fridays to take home. Bags include such items as peanut butter, jelly, a loaf of bread, canned meals/soups/tuna/vegetables, pasta/sauce, fruit cups, cereal, oatmeal, goldfi sh, pretzels and granola bars. To sign up go here to complete online form: https://forms.gle/gmMGguycSHBdziuE9. Want to partner with us: HS2 relies on donations to create take-home bags for a weekend full of meals. All food is provided to children free of charge. It is our hope these resources will support the health, behavior and achievement of every student who participates. We would love to partner with organizations, youth groups, PTOs, businesses and individuals to assist in feeding students of Saugus. To learn more about how you can partner with us, visit the Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus Facebook page or email us at HS2Saugus@gmail.com. Checks can also be sent directly to: Salem Five c/o Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus, 855-5 Broadway, Saugus, MA 01906. Online donations can also be made at https://givebutter.com/HealthySaugus. Food Pantry still open The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry continues 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 & clients, and to limit personal contact and crowding/gathering, the food pantry has been distributing pre-bagged 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 located in the basement of the Cliftondale Congregational Church at 50 Essex St. in Saugus. Clarifying some veterans’ issues Jay Pinette, the Veterans Service Offi cer for the Town of Saugus, wanted to pass along a few words to promote a better understanding of how his offi ce works. “Veterans Service Offi cers (VSOs) are not VA employees and do not have direct access to VA systems or information,” Jay wrote in an email to us. “Local VSOs are employees of their respective cities and towns. VSOs are generally able to assist veterans and eligible dependents with VA-related claims and benefi ts activities. “One of the primary duties of the VSOs is to administer a program for veterans and eligible dependents that is referred to as ‘Chapter 115’. Under Chapter 115 of Massachusetts General Laws (M.G.L. CH. 115), the Commonwealth provides a uniform program of fi nancial assistance for low income veterans and their dependents. Qualifi ed veterans and their THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | SEE PAGE 14
Page 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | FROM PAGE 13 dependents who meet the income and asset eligibility criteria may receive monthly fi nancial benefi ts that are intended to assist the veteran with housing and living expenses. “If local Veterans wish to enroll in VA healthcare and/or obtain a VA ID card, representatives from the VA Bedford will be on-site at the Lynn VA Clinic twice a month. The on-site enrollment will be held on the 1 st and 3 rd Tuesday of each month from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Appointments are advised and the dates and times are subject to change. The Lynn VA Clinic is located at 225 Boston Street, Suite 107. For more information or to schedule an appointment for enrollment, call 781-687-3348 or e-mail vabedoutreach@va.gov. “The Veterans Services Offices of Saugus and other surrounding communities have partnered with the Greater Boston Food Bank to hold monthly mobile food markets for veterans. With the closure of the Saugus Senior Center during the pandemic, the food market was moved to Melrose. We have now moved the food market back to the Saugus Senior Center. The veterans mobile food market is held on the third Wednesday of each month. Veterans and eligible dependents must sign up with the Saugus Veterans Service Office to determine eligibility. VSO Jay Pinette can be reached at 781-231-4010 or at jpinette@ saugus-ma.gov. Or on the first floor of Saugus Town Hall at 298 Central Street, Saugus MA 01906.” Attention Veterans and Surviving Spouses Q: What is Chapter 115? A: Under Chapter 115 of Massachusetts General Laws (M.G.L. Ch. 115), the Commonwealth provides a uniform program of fi nancial and medical assistance for veterans and their dependents. Qualifying veterans and their dependents receive necessary fi nancial assistance in accordance with a formula that considers the number of dependents and income from all sources. Q: How do I fi nd out if I’m eligible? A: By contacting the Veterans Services Offi cer in the town you live in. Here in Saugus, the Veterans’ Services Offi ce is located at the Saugus Town Hall and may be reached at 781231-4010. Eligible veterans and/or their family members must meet certain income criteria and their military experience must meet the Commonwealth’s requirements. The Current Income Limit for single people is $2,147.00 – and $2,904.00 for married people. The Current Asset Limit for single people is $8400.00 – and $16,600.00 for married people. Assets do not include your home or vehicle Q: Are these benefi ts taxable? A: Chapter 115 benefi ts are not taxable income. You must report this income when applying for or renewing subsidized housing applications, Section 8 applications and SNAP applications. A smoke alarm alert for seniors The state fi re marshal announced a Public Service Announcement (PSA) campaign that is geared toward encouraging smoke alarm awareness among senior citizens – the people who are at greater risk of dying in a fi re. And this should be of particular interest to Saugus residents who may recall the house fi re that killed two elderly people on Richard Street last July. Fire investigators found no evidence of smoke alarms or carbon monoxide alarms were found in the home, The “Dear Grandma / Querida Abuela” campaign began in January on television and radio stations in the Boston, Worcester and Springfi eld media markets. Recorded in both English and Spanish, it features a granddaughter writing a letter to her grandmother about all the things she looks forward to doing together, interspersed with messages about the importance of having working smoke alarms and replacing alarms after 10 years. “In Massachusetts and nationwide, people over 65 have a disproportionately high risk of dying in a fi re,” state Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey said in a press release. “Everyone should have working smoke alarms in their homes, but we developed this PSA to reach older adults in particular because of the higher statistical risk they face. Installing smoke alarms on every fl oor of the home, checking them regularly, and replacing them after 10 years can dramatically reduce that risk.” Nationwide, about 60 percent of fatal fi res occur in homes without working smoke alarms. And in Massachusetts, people 65 and older comprise about 17 percent of the population but about 50 percent of last year’s fatal fi re victims. “Working smoke alarms are often the fi rst line of defense against injury and tragedy in a fi re,” Ostroskey said. “We invite our partners in the fi re service, family members, caregivers, and social service providers to share these PSAs and emphasize the importance of working smoke alarms, especially among seniors.” Last year when Louis Gallo, 78, and his sister Rosemarie Naples, 80, died in a threealarm house fire on Richard Street, fire officials stressed that working smoke alarms in your home can double your chances of survival if a fire occurs. Home fire deaths have been cut in half since the early 1970s, when smoke alarms were first marketed, and about 40 percent of fire deaths in the United States take place in the four percent of homes without smoke alarms. People should install smoke alarms throughout their home, test them monthly and replace the batteries when they change their clocks. If your smoke alarm is more than 10 years old, it should be replaced, according to fi re offi cials. The PSAs are available for distribution through the Department of Fire Services (DFS). They can be downloaded at the Department of Fire Services webpage and can be linked or shared from the DFS YouTube channel. They complement the DFS Senior SAFE program, which provides grant funding for local fi re departments to provide fi re and life safety education for older adults. 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 six 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 over a hot drink at a local coffee shop. And I’ll buy the coffee or tea. Or, if you prefer to continue practicing social distancing and be interviewed from the safety of your home on the phone or via email, I will provide that option to you as the nation recovers from the Coronavirus crisis. If it’s a nice day and the temperature is 50 degrees or better, my preferred site for a coff ee and interview would be the picnic area of the Saugus Iron Works. BY JIM MILLER Does Medicare Cover Power Lift Chairs? Dear Savvy Senior, Because of back pain and knee arthritis I’m interested in getting a power lift recliner for my living room that’s easy for me to get into and out of. Does Medicare cover them? Can’t Get Up Dear Can’t, Yes, Medicare does indeed provide some coverage for lift chairs, provided your doctor prescribes it for a medical reason, but they won’t cover the entire cost of the chair. Medicare will only pay for the motorized lifting mechanism, which is considered durable medical equipment (DME), and is covered under Part B. The other parts of the chair – the frame, cushioning, and upholstery – are not covered. Here are a few more details you should know. What Is a Lift Chair? First, for those who aren’t familiar with them, lift chairs, which look like traditional recliners, have motorized lift mechanisms built in that aid with standing up and sitting down for people with limited mobility. With the push of a button, a lift chair hoists a person from sitting to a position where they can comfortably stand up. It also works in reverse to help a person gently take a sitting position. Medicare Coverage Requirements If you’re a Medicare benefi - ciary, to fi nd out if you qualify for coverage, you’ll need to get a prescription and a “Certifi cate of Medical Necessity” from your doctor that indicates your need for a lift chair. The conditions you’ll need to meet include: • That you have severe arthritis of the hip or knee, or a severe neuromuscular disease. • That you can’t stand up on your own from a regular chair. • Once standing, you can walk independently or with the aid of a walker or cane. • That you do not reside within a skilled nursing facility, hospice or nursing home facility. You’ll also need to purchase your lift chair from an equipment supplier that’s enrolled in Medicare. To fi nd and compare Medicare approved suppliers in your area go to Medicare.gov/medical-equipment-suppliers, type in your Zip code and “Seat Lift Mechanisms” in the equipment box. If you do qualify, Medicare will pay 80 percent of the approved cost of the chair’s motorized lifting mechanism, after you’ve met your Part B annual deductible. You, or your Medigap supplemental policy (if you have one), will pay the remaining 20 percent of the lift mechanism. You will also pay 100 percent of the remaining cost of the chair. You should also be aware that if you do buy your lift chair from a Medicare supplier, you will likely pay for the total cost of the chair upfront and can then seek reimbursement from Medicare. Lift chairs can run anywhere from $400 to $2,000 or more depending on the fabric, options and upgrades. The reimbursement is usually between $250 and $300 depending on the state you live in. Advantage Coverage If you happen to get your Medicare benefi ts through a private Medicare Advantage plan, they too provide lift chair coverage, but they may impose different rules and will likely require you to see an in-network supplier. You’ll need to contact your plan directly for details. Other Helpful Options If you find that Medicare won’t cover your lift chair or if you’re looking for something less expensive, there are assistive products you can add to your current furniture like the Stander EZ Stand-N-Go (Stander.com, $140), which has adjustable support handles that can be used on any sofa or recliner to help with sitting down and standing up. Another way to make your furniture more accessible is by increasing its height with “furniture risers.” These typically range from 2 to 5 inches in height and are inserted under the legs of your furniture. Costs range from a few dollars up to $50 or more and can be purchased at retail stores like Walmart and Target, or online at Amazon.com. 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.
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 Page 15 ~ OP-ED ~ Redefining Resignation The Search for Meaningful Work Post-Pandemic Can Lead to Your Own Backyard By Paul Mantell, Vice President of Human Resources, YMCA of Metro North P EABODY - During the pandemic, many American workers took a collective pause to reevaluate what their work means to them. Millions decided that life is too short to risk their safety or their sanity for thankless work and wages. For them, this moment has led to a desire for more meaningful employment that positively impacts the world. Resignation frames this mass exodus as a giving up or quitting, but there is much more to it. Let’s redefine the Great Resignation to the Great Redefinition and put its participants in a positive and purpose-driven light. During the Great “Redefinition,” more than 20 million people quit their jobs in the second half of 2021 alone. Much of the layoffs and resignations were driven by women, who disproportionately work in industries that were affected most by the lockdowns, like service, hospitality, and childcare positions. As the pandemic dragged on, workers continued to quit their jobs in large numbers. This despite continued high labor and worker shortages, increasing pay and benefits, and now, very low unemployment. Many businesses are stuck. With pandemic restriction easing, they have high demand but not enough staff to re-open businesses to their pre-pandemic levels safely and effectively. Labor shortages and skills shortages will be the top issue holding us back from a full recovery. People are burnt out and stressed out from the emotional toll of the COVID-19 pandemic. And, after nearly a year or more of working remotely, spending long hours in traffic commuting has lost its appeal—at any price. Especially now, with gas prices soaring. The search for meaningful work could be closer than many people think. As American workers think about ‘what’s next’ for their careers, or even part-time jobs, they need look no further than their communities and neighborhoods. As Dorothy said in the Wizard of Oz, “I’ll never look further than my own backyard.” Local nonprofits like the YMCA of Metro North are hiring and offer competitive pay, great benefits, and even signing or retention bonuses for highly specialized positions like early education teachers and lifeguards. 8. When did Elizabeth II become queen: 1941, 1952 or 1963? 9. What is Formula Trans1. On March 18, 1990, two men pretending to be police stole 13 works of art from what museum? 2. What sport is also called natation? 3. Which is the longest: Grand Canal, Panama Canal or Suez Canal? 4. March 19 is National Quilting Day; what quilt type often has diff erent embroidery stitches? 5. In 1235 in what London building did Henry III start a zoo with lions? 6. In what movie would you fi nd the line “I’ve a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore”? 7. On March 20, 1886, the fi rst demonstration of a multiple voltage AC power system provided lighting in Great Barrington, Mass.; what does AC stand for? lation language better known as? 10. March 21 is World Puppetry Day; what puppet recorded the songs “Bein’ Green” and “The Rainbow Connection”? 11. Maple syrup has what USDA letter grade(s)? 12. What is the oldest original MLB stadium still in use? 13. On March 22, 1621, the Pilgrims signed a peace treaty with Massasoit, the leader of what tribe? 14. What sportswoman said, “Champions keep playing until they get it right”? 15. In what country is the world’s tallest statue (excludYMCA’s have incredibly broad and robust programming. If you are a retired, semi-retired person, or someone that is still trying to figure out what your passion is, or where you can put your unique talents to work, look no further than the YMCA. We have careers in early education, sports, aquatics, fitness, and other health-related programs, all with a focus on the communities we are a part of. Come explore what the YMCA has to offer! At the Y, you can make a big impact on the health and well-being of people right in your own neighborhood. We operate in Lynn, Peabody, Saugus, Melrose, Nahant, Revere, Lynnfield and Stoneham communities, and we’re a leading employer in these respective communities. Our workforce is evolving. Today’s workers highly value organizations that offer meaningful work, a work-life balance, and livable wages. If you are redefining yourself and your career during ing pedestals) of a woman, which is called “The Motherland Calls”? 16. Who was the first female African American to be elected to Congress? 17. March 23 is National Puppy Day; what movie features an abducted litter of puppies and Cruella de Vil? 18. Where is Hyperion, the world’s tallest tree: Borneo, Redwood National Park or Yosemite? 19. In the 1750s, two “Battles on Snowshoes” took place during what war? 20. On March 24, 1921, the fi rst-ever women’s international sporting event, the Women’s Olympiad, was held in the public gardens of what European casino? the Great Resignation, come to make your impact at the YMCA of Metro North or another great local nonprofit working toward the betterment of our local communities. Find careers at: www.ymcametronorth.org/careers About the YMCA of Metro North The YMCA of Metro North is a leading Massachusetts-based nonprofit organization providing health, fitness, and youth development programs to the nearly 60,000 community members it serves annually. The association awards more than $1,200,000 in financial assistance to members to attend Y Academy early learning and after school programs, summer camps, life-saving swim lessons, and evidence-based health programs such as LiveSTRONG at the Y, Enhance Fitness for Seniors, Cardiac Rehab Maintenance, and more. Learn more: www.ymcametronorth.org ANSWERS 1. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum 2. Swimming 3. Grand Canal in China (1,104 miles) 4. Crazy quilt 5. Tower of London 6. “The Wizard of Oz” 7. Alternating current 8. 1952 9. Fortran 10. Kermit 11. Only A since Grades B and C were renamed A in 2014 12. Fenway Park 13. Wampanoag 14. Billie Jean King 15. Russia 16. Shirley Chisholm 17. “101 Dalmatians” 18. Redwood National Park 19. The French and Indian War 20. Monte Carlo
Page 16 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 $1.6 BILLION SPENDING Beacon Hill Roll Call By Bob Katzen GET A FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO MASSTERLIST – Join more than 22,000 people, from movers and shakers to political junkies and interested citizens, who start their weekday morning with MASSterList—the popular newsletter that chronicles news and informed analysis about what’s going on up on Beacon Hill, in Massachusetts politics, policy, media and infl uence. The stories are drawn from major news organizations as well as specialized publications selected by widely acclaimed and highly experienced writers Chris Van Buskirk and Keith Regan who introduce each article in their own clever and inimitable way. MASSterlist will be e-mailed to you FREE every Monday through Friday morning and will give you a leg up on what’s happening in the blood sport of Bay State politics. THE HOUSE AND SENATE. Beacon Hill roll Call records local representatives’ and senators’ votes on roll calls from the week of March 7-11. PACKAGE (H 4532) House 156-0, approved and sent to the Senate a $1.6 billion supplemental budget that contains $700 million for COVID-19 related expenses including $432 million for COVID testing, $72 million for treatments, $45 million for expanded vaccination access and $25 million for personal protective equipment. Other provisions include $140 million for grants to special education schools to address the impacts of COVID-19 and subsequent variants; $100 million for cities and towns for roads; $100 million for rental assistance for needy families; and extending eviction protections for tenants who have active assistance applications. The package also extends from April 1, 2022 to April 1, 2023 outdoor dining at restaurants and from May 1, 2022 to April 1, 2023 the law allows restaurants to sell beer, wine and cocktails with takeout orders. Supporters said the package is a fi scally responsible one that will fund important programs, benefit many residents and help Massachusetts prepare for the future. An amendment proposed by Rep. Peter Durant (R-Spencer) that would have suspended the state’s 24-cents-per-gallon gas tax until gas prices fall below $3.70 per gallon was defeated on a voice vote without a roll call vote. Under House rules anyone can make the motion to require a roll call vote and a roll call must be held if at least 16 members support requiring a roll call. Durant himself did not ask for a roll call. “It was simply part of the negotiation process for future eff orts that may still come up,” responded Durant when asked by Beacon Hill Roll Call why he didn’t request a roll call. Durant did not respond to several follow up e-mails by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking him to elaborate and explain what he meant by his statement and to reveal what the “negotiation process” involved. “Constituents and suffering motorists will never know how their House lawmaker voted because no House member was willing to go on record to show who supports or opposes this temporary relief for the taxpayers,” said Paul Craney, a spokesman for the Mass Fiscal Alliance. “Despite record gasoline prices, the Massachusetts House of Representatives once again proved how selfi sh they are with our money,” continued Craney. “They had an opportunity to provide temporary gas tax relief and they voted it down and didn’t even have the courage to go on record with their vote. Once again, politicians are protected and the taxpayers lose at the Statehouse. It’s deeply disappointing that House lawmakers play games to protect themselves from hard votes while motorists are still left paying the highest recorded prices for a gallon of gasoline,” said Craney. “With the skyrocketing price of gas, suspension of the gas tax is a small, simple step that the commonwealth can take to provide some relief to the residents of Massachusetts,” said Durant. “Tying this relief to the ongoing price of fuel is the most equitable way to make sure taxpayers continue to see this relief until the nation gets this situation under control.” Opponents of the suspension said Massachusetts would jeopardize its bond ratings by suspending the tax and the state would face higher rates for borrowing. They said they could perhaps support other ways to provide relief at the pump but not this amendment which would do more harm than good. According to Gov. Baker’s proposed fi scal year 2023 budget, the gas tax is projected to generate $743.7 million in fi scal 2023. (A “Yes” vote is for the $1.6 billion package). Rep. Jessica Giannino Yes Rep. Donald Wong Yes $100 MILLION IN ADDITIONAL ROAD FUNDS (H 4532) House 28-128, rejected an amendment that would provide an additional $100 million to cities and towns in one-time funding for the maintenance and repair of local roads and bridges across the state. This would be in addition to the $100 million already included in the spending package. “Roads and schools are some of the biggest budget items for cities and towns and the primary cause of increases to property taxes on family homes, especially hurting our retired seniors,” said sponsor Rep. Kelly Pease (R-Westfi eld). “The Legislature and the governor passed the Student Opportunity Act that is providing more money for schools, but we need to spend more money on … roads so cities and towns can get the repairs that are desperately needed. We should not be raising taxes but prioritizing our spending. I do not know how a representative can get re-elected when they vote against money that would improve our roads. Isn’t that what our taxes are supposed to pay for?” Opponents noted that the package already contains $100 million for roads and bridges. They said that the current formula, created decades ago, for distribution of the funds is considered unfair by many cities BHRC | SEE PAGE 17
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 Page 17 REAL ESTATE TRANSAC TIONS Copyrighted material previously published in Banker & Tradesman/The Commercial Record, a weekly trade newspaper. It is reprinted with permission from the publisher, The Warren Group. For a searchable database of real estate transactions and property information visit: www.thewarrengroup.com. BUYER1 BUYER2 BHRC | FROM PAGE 16 and towns. They argued the House should wait until an attempt is made to change the formula so that the additional $100 million will be distributed in a fairer manner. “Local offi cials across the state continue to advocate for an increase to the Chapter 90 program, which provides direct funding to cities and towns SELLER1 for maintaining and repairing 30,000 miles of municipal roadways in Massachusetts,” said Geoff Beckwith, the executive director of the Massachusetts Municipal Association. “The state has kept Chapter 90 funding fl at at $200 million for the past 10 years, while the cost of repairing roads has increased by more than 40 percent. Without a permanent increase in Chapter 90 aid, local roads will crumSELLER2 Lam, Yuk HTom, Kwok CAnthony Curtis TStaff -Fraga, Cindy ble at a faster rate and taxpayers will bear the burden of even more expensive repairs in the years ahead.” (A “Yes” vote is for the $100 million. A “No” vote is against the $100 million). Rep. Jessica Giannino No Rep. Donald Wong Yes VETERANS’ HOMES OVERSIGHT BILL (S 2739) Senate 39-0, approved a bill that would make major changes to the oversight and governance structure of the state’s veterans’ homes in Holyoke and Chelsea. The proposal follows the deaths of 77 veteran residents in 2020 as a result of a COVID-19 outbreak at the Holyoke facility. The House has already approved its own version of the bill and a House-Senate conference committee will likely hammer out a compromise version. Key provisions establish a new, full-time ombudsperson to receive, investigate and assist in resolving complaints related to the health, wellbeing and rights of veterans home residents and staff ; require the Department of Public Health with regularly inspecting the two homes and making all inspection reports publicly available; elevate the Massachusetts Secretary of Veterans Services to a cabinet-level position; requires each home to have a full-time specialist in infection control and emergency preparedness and to adhere to medically-sound guidelines for trauma-informed care; and require state-operated veterans’ homes to accept Medicare and Medicaid payments to facilitate veterans’ access to health care. “As the daughter of a veteran, I continue to be heartbroken for the families of those who lost their lives to COVID-19 at the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home,” said Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland). “The Senate will continue to lead in its eff orts to support the brave men and women who have served our country.” “The Soldiers’ Homes have long suffered from gaps in accountability and a confused chain of command, factors which left it unable to deal with a crisis like the one we saw with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Sen. Michael Rush (D-Boston), the ADDRESS 36 Essex St #8 CITY DATE PRICE 23.02.2022 $300 000,00 bill, the Senate recognizes the need to prioritize accountability and oversight, establish eff ective checks and balances and ensure clear chains of command at our state’s longterm care facilities for veterans in order to prevent the tragedy at Holyoke Soldiers’ Home from ever happening again,” said Senate Ways and Means chair Sen Mike Rodrigues (D-Westport). (A “Yes” vote is for the bill). Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes REQUIRE SOLDIERS’ HOMES TO MEET STATE STANDARDS (S 2739) Senate 38-1, approved an amendment that would require that both veterans’ homes be licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) and be required to meet state standards that are currently required for nursing facilities. Sen. Jo Comerford (D-Northampton), the sponsor of the amendment, said the amendment will ensure that the homes meet high state standards. “I was proud to file an amendment to this bill to require that the Secretary of Veterans Services be notified of any violation identifi ed during a DPH inspection of a Soldiers’ Home and to require Soldiers’ homes to comply with existing, strict DPH standards for skilled nursing facilities through a process of licensure,” said Comerford. “We should not rely solely on federal standards, which is why this amendment requires Soldiers’ homes comply with state standards—the same standards skilled nursing facilities are held to. The amendment will advance … the state’s eff orts to provide the highest quality care for the individuals who have served our nation.” “Long before COVID-19, many facilities across Massachusetts failed to maintain proper infection control procedures and staffi ng levels,” said Sen. Mark Montigny (D-New Bedford), the SECRETARY OF VETERANS SERVICES MUST BE A VETERAN (S 2739) Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would require the Secretary of Veterans’ Services to be a veteran. “Less than one-half of one percent of our population serves in the military, and a lot of times it can be diffi cult to fully grasp what veterans have been through and the issues they face unless you have served yourself,” said Sen. John Velis (D-Westfi eld), the Senate chair of the Committee on Veterans and Federal Aff airs. “The secretary is going to be the position in our state with the highest obligation of representing our service members and this amendment ensures whoever fi lls that position has had these experiences and understands what it truly means to serve.” (A “Yes” vote is for requiring the secretary to be a veteran.) Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes HOW LONG WAS LAST WEEK’S SESSION? Beacon Hill Roll Call tracks the length of time that the House and Senate were in session each week. Many legislators say that legislative sessions are only one aspect of the Legislature’s job and that a lot of important work is done outside of the House and Senate chambers. They note that their jobs also involve committee work, research, constituent BHRC | SEE PAGE 18 only senator to vote against the amendment. “They were totally unprepared for a global pandemic and thousands of our loved ones perished, including those who valiantly served this country. Under current state law, a violation of the Department’s regulations is punishable by a paltry $50 fi ne while violations of a federal standard … can result in penalties of up to $22,300. If we are going to deter cost-cutting measures that jeopardize safety, then we must absolutely implement a state fi ne structure that closely aligns with federal standards and that refl ect the pain and suff ering infl icted on these vulnerable individuals and their families. Otherwise, the law has no teeth, and more lives will be jeopardized.” (A “Yes” vote is for the amendment. A “No” vote is against it.) Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes Saugus sponsor of the bill. “The bill passed by the Senate today tightens these gaps, enhances the level of oversight by elevating the Secretary of Veterans’ Services to a cabinet level position and creates a stronger governing structure that supports our veterans and provides high quality care.” “With the passage of this
Page 18 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 BHRC | FROM PAGE 17 work and other matters that are important to their districts. Critics say that the Legislature does not meet regularly or long enough to debate and vote in public view on the thousands of pieces of legislation that have been fi led. They note that the infrequency and brief length of sessions are misguided and lead to irresponsible late-night sessions and a mad rush to act on dozens of bills in the days immediately preceding the end of an annual session. During the week of March 7-11, the House met for a total of four hours and 52 minutes and the Senate met for a total of three hours and 20 minutes. Mon. March 7 House 11:01 a.m. to 11:14 a.m. Senate 11:14 a.m. to 11:21 a.m. Tues. March 8 No House session. No Senate session Wed. March 9 House 11:01 a.m. to 3:31 p.m. No Senate session Thurs. March 10 House 11:01 a.m. to 11:10 a.m. Senate 1:24 p.m. to 4:43 p.m. Fri. March 11 No House session No Senate session Bob Katzen welcomes feedback at bob@beaconhillrollcall.com Bob founded Beacon Hill Roll Call in 1975 and was inducted into the New England Newspaper and Press Association (NENPA) Hall of Fame in 2019. FRANK’S Housepainting (781) 289-0698 • Exterior • Ceiling Dr. • Power Wash • Paper Removal • Carpentry FREE ESTIMATES — Fully Insured “Proper prep makes all the difference” – F. Ferrera • Interior ADVOCATE Call now! 781 233 4446 We follow Social Distancing Guidelines!
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