SAUGUS Your locally owned newspaper for 25 years! Vol. 25, No. 12 -FREEwww.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday 781-233-4446 Friday, March 25, 2022 $1 million worth of good news A “Bucket List” Trip Town receives federal funding to enhance public safety communications system; Crabtree: “This is huge…really phenomenal for the taxpayers.” By Mark E. Vogler T own Manager Scott C. Crabtree told selectmen he only had one announcement to make near the end of Tuesday (March 22) night’s meeting, but promised it would be “very good news” that would make them “happy.” Selectmen told Crabtree his report, though brief, couldn’t have been better after he briefed them on the town recently receiving $1 million in federal funding to improve the town’s public safety communications system. “This is huge…really phenomenal for the taxpayers,” Crabtree told selectmen of his announcement that Saugus was among 120 state projects funded by Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS). Crabtree noted that he had submitted a funding request which was “championed” by the offi ces of U.S. Senator Edward J. Markey and U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren. The award was included in the bipartisan omnibus federal spending bill signed into law on March 11 $1 MILLION | SEE PAGE 6 Making Her Case HOPING FOR A WASHINGTON VISIT: Lester Markovitz, a U.S. Marine who served in combat during the Vietnam War, says he welcomes the opportunity to be one of 45 area Vietnam Era veterans who will get to “Roll to DC” in September. See inside for more photos and this week’s “The Advocate Asks.” (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) The height is right Selectmen give unanimous support to allowing two six-story buildings in Kowloon project on Route 1 North after Wong family makes more adjustments By Mark E. Vogler T Saugus Public Schools Superintendent Erin K. McMahon briefed the Finance Committee on Wednesday (March 23) on her proposed budget for the 2023 Fiscal Year: She’s seeking a $1.5 million increase over the current year’s spending plan – $1.1 million more than what Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree has recommended. See inside for story. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) ~ Home of the Week ~ SAUGUS...Great opportunity for Home-Ownership View the interior of this home right on your smartphone. here were several times this year when it looked like the Wong family would have diffi culty winning support from the Board of Selectmen for a Special Permit (S-2) that would allow for the construction of two six-fl oor mixed-use buildings at the site of the Kowloon Restaurant. Selectman Michael Serino had been adamantly opposed to the project, saying it wouldn’t be in the best interests of the town to allow the proposed buildings to exceed the four stories and 55 feet in height that town zoning currently allows within the Route One Business Highway Sustainable Zoning District (BHSD). Meanwhile, Board of Selectmen Vice Chair Debra Panetta agonized over her role as SELECTMEN | SEE PAGE 5 ASNGELO’ FULL SERVICE Regular Unleaded $4.099 Mid Unleaded $4.369 Super $4.499 Diesel Fuel $4.899 "43 Years of Excellence!" 1978-2021 KERO $6.99 DEF $4.75 9 Diesel $4.839 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 25, 2022 SHS juniors spend a day in the life of a vet, detective and firefighter By Tara Vocino ast Thursday some of the 32 Saugus High School juniors who shadowed professionals in their hopeful fi eld during the Saugus Business Education Collaborative Shadow Day spoke about why they chose that line of work. Junior Sophia Jabir, 17, who L is torn between becoming a veterinarian or an FBI agent, shadowed Saugus Animal Hospital Technician Assistant Amanda MacAvoy, of two years, last Thursday morning. “I always liked dogs, but I feel a deeper connection with my new dog, Cooper,” Jabir said, who plans to study biology and criminal justice, hopefully at Boston University. MacAvoy was treating Noodles, 13, a shih tzu mix, and said she followed her childhood dreams at the hospital, because they have a fearfree policy where they carefully work with anxious pets 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 through doses of sedatives trazodone and gabapentin. “I originally worked in education, but I like how they take their time here with all animals,” MacAvoy said. At the Saugus Police/Fire complex, students who plan to enter that fi eld shared why. Junior Saif Haddad, who plans to become a state trooper, shadowed the Saugus Police Department. “I liked going inside the cop car,” Haddad said. “I learned the basics about law enforcement today.” Saugus Police Detective Carmine Ciccolini told Haddad and other juniors about the diffi culty in processing crime scenes and interviewing victims. “We taught them how the statements of one can infl uence another, pertaining to investigative issues.” Junior Kyhel DeJesus, who shadowed Saugus High School Shadow Day ’04 alum/ Ladder 1 Firefi ghter/EMT Anthony Arone, enjoyed the hands-on feature, such as SHS | SEE PAGE 4 We don’t just make deals. We make it happen. Pictured from left to right: Saugus Police Offi cer David Zeitz addressed Maria Ferraro, Eliza Oliveira and Saif Haddad outside of the station last Thursday morning. Saugus High School juniors used a hose to extinguish a pretend fi re during last Thursday’s Shadow Day at the Saugus Police/Fire complex; pictured from left to right: Christian Fallavollita, Kyhel DeJesus and Jose Diaz. (Courtesy photos, Saugus Firefi ghter/EMT Anthony Arone) SHS juniors wore full turnout gear during last Thursday’s Shadow Day at the Saugus Police/Fire complex; pictured from left to right: Jose Diaz, Fire Lt. DJ Blandini, Christian Fallavollita and Kyhel DeJesus. 419 BROADWAY, EVERETT MA 02149 Member FDIC Member DIF Saugus High School junior Viktoria Biegun, Saugus Animal Hospital technician assistant Amanda MacAvoy – treating Noodles – and junior Sophia Jabir
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2022 Page 3 ~ THE ADVOCATE ASKS ~ U.S. Marine veteran Lester Markovitz talks about his hopes for a “Bucket List” trip to the Nation’s Capital to see “the Vietnam Wall” Editor’s Note: For this week, we interviewed Lester Markovitz, a U.S. Marine who served in combat during the Vietnam War. He is one of several veterans who have applied to be among the 45 area Vietnam Era veterans who will be a part of “Roll to DC,” a fi ve-day-four-night bus trip to Washington, D.C. in September to view the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and other memorials. Markovitz, 74, is a retired Marine corporal; he received the Purple Heart after being wounded in action during the Vietnam War. He is a Dorchester native and 1965 graduate of Dorchester High School. He and his wife, Enid, a Revere native, have been married for 37 years and moved to Saugus soon after their marriage to raise a family. They have a son (Jonathan) and a daughEAGER TO SERVE: U.S. Marine Corporal Lester Markovitz more than 55 years ago as he prepared for combat duty in Vietnam. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) ter (Amie) and five grandchildren. He is a member of the Saugus American Legion Cp. Scott J. Procopio Post 210. He serves as historian for the Post and helps cook the Friday morning breakfasts at Legion Hall. After serving in the military, he worked as a counselor at the Veterans Center in the South End of Boston, working out of the Jamaica Plains Veterans Hospital. Later, he worked for 30 years as a supervisor in the U.S. Post Offi ce. Some highlights of this week’s interview follow. Q: So, please tell me a little bit about yourself – why you enlisted in the service. A: My older brother enlisted in the Air Force and I wanted to follow him. Later, at the last minute, I changed to the Marines. Q: Why did you change? A: I was with my friends and we were watching a John Wayne movie. I had made the statement that I always wanted to be a Marine, and then I switched and enlisted in the Marines. I was down in Cuba and was already a lance corporal when I got my draft notice. Q: You were already in the service. So, was Vietnam a choice or a mission you were assigned to? A: I was trained in Cuba for Vietnam. We knew we were going there when we were being trained. Q: And where in Vietnam did A PROUD MARINE: Lester Markovitz, a Purple Heart recipient who was wounded during the Vietnam War, stands by his Chevrolet Equinox, which bears a special Purple Heart license plate and decals which relate to the time he served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps. He hopes to be part of a special trip for Vietnam Era veterans this fall to Washington, D.C., where he can get his fi rst look at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and scan “the Wall” for the names of friends he served with in Vietnam who were killed. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) you serve? A: I served in Da Nang and in that area, with Charlie Company 111 – the First Battalion of the First Marine Regiment of the First Marine Division. Q: So, why would you like to go see the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C.? ADVOCATE | SEE PAGE 14 “Our AFCNS experience has been valuable beyond measure.” Denise, Caregiver to Son, Dean s re.” ver 978-281-2612 AdultFosterCareNS.com Celebrating 21 Years
Page 4 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2022 Saugus Police Officer David Zeitz introduced students to a patrol rifl e during last Thursday’s Shadow Day at the Saugus Police/Fire complex. SHS | FROM PAGE 2 wearing fi refi ghter uniforms, and how much equipment sits on the back on fi re engines. Arone shadowed Saugus Fire Captain William Cross in 2004 when he was a senior at Saugus High School. “It was nice to share stuff that he taught me with current students,” Arone said. Arone and other fi refi ghters asked students to operate fi re CIGARCIGAR 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. Priced $149.95Reg. Priced $149.95 * Travel Humidors * Desk Top Humidors * Many Types of Lighters * Ash Trays * Juuls * Vapes * Glass Pipes * Rewards Program * CBD Infused Products * GIFTS UNDER $30 - GIFT CERTIFICATES A.B.C. 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 Shown from left to right: WIN Environmental Compliance Manager Joseph Brady, juniors Tanisha and Jenisha Berry, Community Engagement Liaison Jack Walsh, and Bear Creek Wildlife Sanctuary Manager Geoff Wilson. WIN Environmental Compliance Manager Joseph Brady gave juniors Jenisha and Tanisha Berry a tour of the incinerator. They are interested in going in diff erent fi elds, but they said they learned a lot about trash removal. Steve Shown from left to right: Saugus High School junior Eliza Oliveira, Saugus Police Detective Carmine Ciccolini, junior Maria Ferraro, Police Offi cer Bryan Misci, Police Offi cer David Zeitz, junior Jose Diaz and Police Detective Robert Stanley. They are interested in entering the criminal justice fi eld after high school graduation. hoses in full gear, crawl and search for victims and use the Jaws of Life to free victims. Peter Rossetti, president of the Saugus Business Education Collaborative, said businesses need the education community and vice versa. “People learn diff erently, and today gives people an opportunity to see what’s out there professionally,” Rossetti said. Superintendent of Schools Erin McMahon said the district’s goal is to prepare students for the future. “Today demonstrates how the community can really come together,” McMahon said. Saugus High School Guidance Counselor Katie Pinette thanked students for entrusting them to be placed with employers. “We hoped that it was a meaningful experience,” Pinette said. “It means a lot to have it back after taking a few years off due to the COVID-19 pandemic.” 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 Saugus High School junior Eliza Oliveira sat inside the cruiser and learned about the police radio. Saugus Police Offi cer David Zeitz taught juniors that offi cers know basic lifesaving procedures, such as administering Narcan for drug overdoses. (Saugus Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) Saugus Firefi ghters Andrew Oxley, Anthony Arone and Fire Lt. DJ Blandini taught juniors Christian Fallavollita, Kyhel DeJesus and Jose Diaz about the fi re service. They are interested in entering the fi eld after graduation.
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2022 Page 5 SELECTMEN | FROM PAGE 1 casting the decisive vote that would give the project the required four-fi fths vote for the board to issue the height variance. Three times, Panetta had requested that the hearing be continued so she could obtain enough information to cast an informed vote. In the latest delay, she sought an information meeting with the Planning Board on the feasibility of two six-story buildings vs. three four-story buildings. In the end, it was that informal session coupled with the developer’s decision to make more concessions which won the backing of Serino and Panetta as selectmen voted 5-0 to issue the S-2 permit with three conditions: * There would be no more than 198 apartment units in the project. * All of the apartments would be limited to one bedroom. * There would be no balconies in the entire project. “I will support the project going forward,” Serino said. “I think the revised plan is a good option,” he said. Serino, who had initially expressed concerns about the OBITUARIES Virginia “Ginny” or “Gina” (Ditto) Trabucco Passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on March 19, 2022, at Salem Hospital. She was the wife of the late Martin Trabucco with whom she shared 49 years. Born on February 1, 1935 in Lynn, she was the daughter of the late Felice and Angelina (Impalario) Ditto. Raised and educated in Saugus, she worked at the General Electric in Lynn before staying home to raise her family. She later became a real estate agent and worked at Home Town Realty in Saugus. Ginny’s greatest joy in life was celebrating birthdays, holidays and Sunday dinners that the family would share together. She loved outings with her long-time friends, beach days on Lake Attitash, bingo and most of all spending time with family and friends. She is survived by her children Susanne Trabucco of Providence, RI, Pamela Cloutman and her husband Edward of Peabody and her son-in-law Michael Meagher of Kingston, NH. She also leaves her cherished grandchildren; Stephanie, Nicholas and Matthew Cloutman and Thomas and Sean Meagher and many beloved nieces and nephews. Ginny was predeceased by her dear daughter project’s density, said he is pleased with the developer’s decision to make a 10 percent reduction in apartment units – going from 220 to 198 – and the reduction of 13 parking spaces. Panetta said she appreciated the increase of the buff er zone at the back end of the project and other changes in the project. She credited the joint informal meeting between selectmen and the Planning Board with helping her to make a decision. Board of Selectmen Chair Anthony Cogliano Sr. expressed his concerns about how selectmen had assumed more responsibility in their determination of the S-2 permit than what their powers allowed. “Let the Planning Board do its job,” Cogliano said. “I’m not comfortable with any of the conditions, other than height,” he said. “That’s all I wanted to discuss – height,” Cogliano said. Selectman Corinne Riley said she also believes that the board was getting involved in issues that it wasn’t responsible for. Selectman Jeffrey Cicolini expressed frustration with the process. “I wish the height permit didn’t fall on the Board of Selectmen,” Cicolini said. Andrea Meagher, her loving sister and brother-in-law, Mary and Phil Amato. John F. Dillon Age 93, of Saugus, formerly Chelsea, died on March 19 at Melrose-Wakefi eld Hospital. He was the husband of the late Helen (Fennell) Dillon. John is survived by his daughters; Jan Thomas & her husband Ken of Boxford & Suzanne Sagan & her husband Paul of Newton. He was the cherished grandfather of Allison Pogar & her husband Thomas, Brian Thomas, Mark & John Sagan and the dear brother of Mary Kaliris of Lynnfi eld, William Dillon of Middleborough & the late Evelyn Glowik & Margaret Concannon. John is also survived by many beloved nieces & nephews. In lieu of fl owers donations in his memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org. Harley W. Lever Age 73, died on Sunday, March 20 at Melrose-Wakefield Hospital. He was the beloved husband of Patricia (Cerbone) Lever with whom he shared 32 years of marriage. Born in Melrose and a longtime resident of Saugus, Harley was the son of the late Willis and Rose (Archibald) Lever. He was a retired Teamster for The Boston Herald. Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree called it a learning experience for the town. He noted that the previous process required an applicant to go to Town Meeting. “Saugus needs development and they need new growth,” Crabtree said. “We’re looking to have new growth and the least amount of impact,” he said. Most of the selectmen said they think the informal meeting with the Planning Board was helpful, as well as the pre-application meeting with the town. While selectmen approved the S-2 permit with conditions, the Planning Board has the powers to set its conditions on the project once members begin their review. The fi rst fl oor of both buildings would include commercial tenant space. Floors 2 through 6 would have one-bedroom luxury apartments, according to Michael McKeown, architect of the Manchester, N.H. fi rm, Dennis Mires, PA, The Architects. One of the buildings would house the new Kowloon Restaurant. The new restaurant would have 320 seats, and the project also includes 15,000 square feet of retail space. In addition to his wife, Mr. Lever is survived by his six children, Harley Lever II and his partner Rosalyn Rust of WA, Janelle Lever and Joelle Lever both of AZ Frank Lasquade and his wife Tracy of Georgetown, Timothy Lasquade and his wife Marianne of Rowley, David Lasquade and his wife Nadia of TX; six grandchildren; two brothers, Ronald Lever of RI and Alfred Lever of Melrose; last but not least their fourlegged friend, their dog Emmy. In lieu of fl owers, donations in his memory may be made to either the American Cancer Society at cancer.org or the American Heart Association at heart.org. Gerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law Is Your Estate in Order? Do you have an update Will, Health Care Proxy or Power of Attorney? If Not, Please Call for a Free Consultation. 14 Proctor Avenue, Revere (781) 284-5657 $$ CASH FOR YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR SUV! $$ GET YOUR VEHICLE SPRING READY! 2006 CHRYSLER 300 2015 HYUNDAI TUSCON $39.95 TRADES WELCOME! $7,495 Easy Financing Available! PRICE REDUCED! 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Page 6 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2022 $1 MILLION | FROM PAGE 1 by President Joseph R. Biden. “This has been a priority for Saugus and these funds will allow Saugus to continue to move forward with this much needed upgrades for Public Safety,” Crabtree said in a statement his offi ce issued this week announcing the federal money earmarked for a project that town officials have talked about for several years. “This system will vastly improve first responder communication infrastructure to better serve the residents of Saugus. The proposal will also expand our fiber-optic network to ensure the equipment is reliable and connected with local and regional emergency response agencies,” Crabtree said. “This appropriation will have tremendous benefits for Saugus residents by securing state of the art public safety capabilities and better protecting lives and property throughout town.” Nearly four years ago, a Special Town Meeting approved a request for the town to borrow $420,000 to improve the public safety communications system. A Town Meeting vote in May of 2016 approved $38,000 for Public Safety radio equipment. The state delegation had also come up with $50,000 for funding the project. With the latest federal funding approved, the town will have more than $1.5 million invested in enhancement of its public safety communications system. Each fi scal year senators may request CDS funding for projects in their state that showcase ample local community support and, in most cases, fulfi ll a distinct local need. A small number of proposals supported by senators are awarded. “I’ve been fighting hard alongside our Massachusetts delegation to bring in federal funding for the Commonwealth, and I’m glad we secured $1 million for the Town of Saugus,” Sen. Warren said in a statement. “This funding is a big win that will help enhance the town’s emergency communications infrastructure and public safety for town residents,” she said. Sen. Markey said he is “proud to have helped secure this critical funding for the residents of Saugus.” “State-of-the-art emergency communications infrastructure that’s utilized in times of emergency by the town’s fi rst responders and the Department of Public Works is essential,” Markey said. “By replacing their system, this federal investment in the Saugus community will provide more reliable emergency services for the years to come.” Congressman Seth Moulton (D-Salem), whose Sixth Congressional District includes the Town of Saugus, called the project “a win-win for the community, representing a signifi - cant public safety opportunity and a needed investment in a robust Town-owned fi ber network.” “Enhancements to the town’s emergency communications infrastructure will provide an invaluable asset to the community and the regional public safety goals for the Town of Saugus and the North Shore,” Moulton said. The overall cost of this enhancement to public safety communications infrastructure is expected to be about $2 million, according to Crabtree. CDS funding awarded to the town will provide critical upgrades and allow for the replacement of the town’s older communications system and infrastructure, he said. In addition, the enhancement of public safety communication infrastructure will ensure reliability and town-wide coverage for the portable and mobile radios. “This investment in public safety communications infrastructure will provide town residents with more responsive emergency services, A POSITIVE ANNOUNCEMENT: Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree was visibly happy as he briefed selectmen at Tuesday night’s meeting on the $1 million in federal money the town will be receiving to improve its public safety communications system. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) needed security and reliability, and will bring greater peace of mind to residents and businesses in the Town of Saugus,” Crabtree said. The town manager said the town’s state legislative delegation has also been supportive of the project. “I am constantly looking out for the best interests of Saugus residents and believe that this project will greatly improve our fi rst responder’s ability to better serve the residents of Saugus with a new robust and reliable emergency communication infrastructure,” State Representative Donald Wong (R-Saugus) said. State Representative Jessica Ann Giannino (D-Revere), whose 16th Suffolk District includes Precincts 3 and 10 in Saugus, said upgrading the town’s emergency communications system will greatly enhance the public works response to fl oods, snowstorms and infrastructure emergencies. “The project, when completed, will ensure the equipment is reliable and connected with local and regional emergency response agencies,” Rep. Giannino said. State Senator Brendan Crighton (D-Lynn), whose Third Essex District includes Saugus, said a reliable and efficient communications system during an emergency “can be the diff erence between life and death.” “We must continue to make investments like this that put our police offi cers in the best position to serve the community,” Crighton said. The Saugus request Project Name: Public Safety Communication Infrastructure Reliability Project for Police and Fire in the Town of Saugus. Amount Requested: $1,000,000. Intended Recipient and Address: Town of Saugus, 298 Central St, Saugus, MA 01906. Location: Saugus, MA. Project Purpose: The requested funding would be utilized by the Town of Saugus to upgrade and replace the legacy police and fi re communications infrastructure due to end of life and product support as the equipment is over 12 years old. The current Town of Saugus Police and Fire Department radio communication systems are confi gured with transmitter and receiver devices located throughout the town in various locations to provide coverage for the portable and mobile radios to operate eff ectively. These complex, vital, mission-critical systems require connectivity between the multiple devices and their remote locations back to the headquarters dispatch and control equipment. The current method of connectivity is leased copper circuits provided by Verizon. These antiquated copper circuits are prone to regular failure and are increasingly unreliable. These failures result in faulty radio communication, impeding police and fi re units in the fi eld. Verizon no longer supports these copper circuits, meaning the Town relies on a vendor service contract. Finding parts to make the repairs is continuously growing more diffi cult as the obsolete infrastructure deteriorates. The Town must choose another method of connectivity to support the public safety communication systems. The town also plans to utilize this funding to expand the existing town-owned fiber optic network currently installed.
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2022 Page 7 Saugus seniors citizens celebrate St. Patrick’s Day Seniors and staff along with Selectwoman Debra Panetta take a group photo. Senior citizens, pictured from left to right: Standing: Shirley Bogdan and Dottie Bockus; seated: Eleanor Gallo, Judy Worthley and Mary Dunlop. Seniors and Board of Selectmen Vice Chairman Debra Panetta (in center) did the Electric Slide. Senior citizens during last Thursday’s St. Patrick’s Day Senior Center party, pictured from left to right: Standing: Elaine Jebali, Avis McLennan and Renee O’Donnell; seated: Lorraine Lewis, Cathy Strum and Ken Strum, who is wearing a leprechaun hat. Pictured from left to right: Board of Selectmen Vice Chairman Debra Panetta, Selectman Michael Serino and Senior Center Receptionist Joanie Allbee. Senior Center staff opening the party: Pictured from left to right: Director Joanne Olsen, Administrative Assistant Laurie Davis, Bookkeeper Lynette Terrazzano, Van Driver Jack Doherty, Outreach Coordinator Cheryl Roberto, Council on Aging Member Cathy Strum and Front Desk Receptionist Joanne Genzale. Not present: Custodian Dana Marshall. Seniors decked out in green: Anette Slocomb, 98, and Ruth Berg, 90. Chestnut Woods Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center donated this raffl e basket. Ruth Berg was dressed as a bearded leprechaun. Senior citizen Mary Valliere did an Irish dance. Rose Cronin and Otto Swanson slow danced during last Thursday’s St. Patrick’s Day Council on Aging party. (Saugus Advocate photos by Tara Vocino)
Page 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2022 The FY 2023 Budget “This is the year to invest,” School Supt. McMahon tells Finance Committee as she advocates for $1.5M increase in the current School Dept. spending By Mark E. Vogler I n her fi rst appearance before the Finance Committee Wednesday (March 23) night, Saugus School Superintendent Erin K. McMahon was emphatic that the $1.5 million increase she’s requesting in the current budget for Saugus Public Schools is crucial to the district’s fi ve-year mission to advance from the bottom 10 percent to the top 10 percent of school districts in Massachusetts. “This is the year to invest,” McMahon declared in trying to justify the need for increase. But Finance Committee Chair Kenneth DePatto and others on the committee told McMahon that her ambitious spending plan in the face of the current fi scal situation – given the town’s overall budget was based on a $1.2 million structural deficit – isn’t sustainable. Veteran Finance Committee Member Ronald “Rocky” Jessup said he is troubled by fi - nancial sustainability throughout local government. “Between the management side and the school side, I don’t see sustainability on either side,” Jessup said. “I hope that light at the end of the tunnel is not a train … you need sustainability,” he said. The superintendent, joined by four School Committee members in the fi rst fl oor conference room at Town Hall, didn’t back down from those • • • BRIEFING THE FINANCE COMMITTEE: Saugus School Superintendent Erin K. McMahon summarizes her proposed budget for the 2023 Fiscal Year that begins July 1, 2022. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) who questioned the need for the budget increase. “Saugus will be unsustainable as a community if we don’t invest,” McMahon responded to challenges that her budget is unrealistic McMahon’s appearance before the Finance Committee was historic Wednesday night. She is the fi rst woman educator to preside over Saugus Public Schools. “I think the superintendent did a masterful job,” School Committee Member Ryan Fisher said of the superintendent’s fi rst budget presentation. “She’s been tasked with leading a dramatic increase in student achievement after two years of pandemic in diffi cult fi scal times. That’s a tall order. Fortunately for Saugus, Superintendent McMahon specializes in raising rigor, teaching teachers and has a degree in fi nance from Cornell,” Fisher said in an interview after the meeting. “This is why we asked her to come to Saugus. She underscored for the Finance Committee the specifi c drivers of increased costs, how we’re planning to contain them, what we need to raise Saugus to the top of the charts and how reaching that goal will benefi t the entire community,” Fisher said. “We have top-notch services in Saugus, but everyone I know who buys a home uses the quality of the school system as a barometer. It drives value every single time. If we can’t compete with the Voke, or with charter schools, and if we have to pay sky-high costs for out of district services we can’t provide ourselves, that pulls money out of the district right along with Saugus kids,” he said. “I noticed recently that when a new grocery store prepared to open in town, the fi rst thing a competitor did was invest to stay competitive. Investments, when made well, pay for themselves.” School Committee Member John Hatch told the Finance Committee that the budget prepared by the superintendent “is the fi rst budget we’ve seen put together with a private sector mind.” “Ms. McMahon is not only an educator. She comes from a fi - nancial background as well,” Hatch said. The Dean program is one of three key requests and a cost containment factor that McMahon highlighted in her budget message. She also cited: * A signifi cant increase in out of district placements for Special Education. “The return to in person learning after a period of remote learning has resulted in behavioral dysregulation in our most vulnerable special education population,” the superintendent said. “Outof-district placements for special needs students rose to just over $4 million this year. While this is also true across the Commonwealth, the impact for Saugus is an increase of $805,874 associated with providing out of district placements.” * Costs associated with contractual agreements related to salaries are rising by $548,065. In addition, the Saugus School Committee enters into negotiations with all three unions – Saugus Educators’ Association, Saugus Educational Assistants Association and Saugus School Clerical Association – along with three vendor Requests for Proposals. “In order to enter into these negotiations in good faith, we are planning for an additional $575,000 increase,” the superintendent said. * Cost Containments. School district enrollment has declined by almost 200 students over the past four years, with more families choosing private, charter or home school options.
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2022 Page 9 Saugus Police continue to investigate Sunday stabbing A Lynn man in his late 20s remains in stable condition, recovering from wounds he received in an early morning stabbing incident in Saugus last Sunday (March 20). At about 3:05 a.m., Saugus Police responded to a home on Bristow Street due to a report of a disturbance in the driveway of the home. Upon arrival, offi cers located a Lynn man in his late 20s who was The $30 million question That’s how much the town pays in education-related expenses By Mark E. Vogler lose to $30 million will be spent on educational expenses that won’t be part of the proposed budget for Saugus Public Schools for the 2023 Fiscal Year that begins July 1. But, it’s a fi nancial fact that C few Saugus residents aren’t even aware of, according to Finance Committee Chair Kenneth DePatto. “There’s a misconception out there that the Finance Committee and Saugus Town Meeting don’t support the schools,” DePatto said Wednesday night (March 23) during the Finance Committee’s review of the School Department budget. To argue his case, he presented copies of the socalled Schedule 19 charges that are education-related, but funded by the town. For instance, the town will pay an estimated $6.5 million in insurance premiums for active school employees for the 2023 Fiscal Year, according to the one page document. The town will pay an additional $3 million for insurance to cover retired School Department employees. Employment retirement contributions will amount to $1.5 million. Another $460,000 has been budgeted for maintenance of school grounds, in addition to $435,000 for maintenance of school buildings. “There’s a lot of information that we are not funding the schools,” DePatto said. The COVID-19 Update Town reports 15 newly confi rmed cases over the past seven days, no new deaths By Mark E. Vogler T he number of newly confi rmed cases increased from 12 last week to 15 over the past seven days through yesterday (Thursday, March 24), according to Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree. This week’s positive COVID cases reported to the town by the state Department of Public Health (DPH) increased the overall total to 8,619 confi rmed cases, according to Crabtree. In addition, the overall number of deaths since March of 2020 remained at 88. Two weeks ago, total Saugus deaths related to COVID-19 were listed at 106. But that number was reduced to 88 because of a change in the Interested? guidelines used by health officials. “Our hearts and prayers go out to those families affected by this health pandemic,” Crabtree said. Meanwhile, Saugus Public Schools experienced a slight decrease in the number of cases in its four buildings, going from seven – during a period ending last week (March 10-16) – to four this week (March 17 to March 23). This week there were no cases in the High School, two in the Middle School, one in the Belmonte STEAM Academy and one in the Veterans Early Learning Center. Last 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. No previous experience is necessary and training is provided. Work remotely or in-person with flexible hours December - April. Volunteers must be 18+ years. Gain valuable tax experience and build transferrable skills. Your service will keep tax dollars in the community and help build a strong local economy. Questions? Email LEO’s VITA Coordinator at ayeshar@leoinc.org or call 781.309.5623 Ready to Volunteer? Scan the QR code for the volunteer application! SCAN ME ESCANÉAME DIGITALIZA-ME ESKANE M suff ering from a stab wound to the chest. The victim was given medical care at the scene by responding officers and then transported by ambulance to Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. The State Police were called to the scene to assist. An investigation into the stabbing incident continues. There have been no arrests reported so far. No further information was available at press Saugus man hits fi ve cars after driving wrong way on Rt. 1 By Christopher Roberson J onathan Sevoich, 32, of Saugus, is facing numerous charges after allegedly driving the wrong way on Route 1 and striking fi ve other vehicles. Shortly before 9 p.m. on March 17, Saugus Police were notifi ed that a vehicle was traveling northbound on the southbound side of Route 1. While en route, offi cers were also informed that Sevoich had hit fi ve vehicles in the parking lot of York Ford. In addition, an eyewitness told police that Sevoich got on Route 1 at the Route 99 split before the crash at York Ford. A short time later, officers located Sevoich’s Hyundai Elantra, which had sustained major front-end damage, thus causing the airbags to deploy. Sevoich allegedly refused to get out of the vehicle and, therefore, had to be removed. He then attempted to evade police on foot; however, he was ultimately restrained. Sevoich was later treated at an area hospital for injuries he sustained to his chin and knees during the struggle with police. According to police, a “brown powdery substance” believed to be heroin was reportedly found in Sevoich’s vehicle as well as other drug paraphernalia. Sevoich was subsequently charged with Operating Under the Influence of Drugs (second off ense), Possession of a Class A Substance, Failure to Stop for Police, Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Crash and Driving Down a Restricted Way. He was also wanted on a number of outstanding warrants. Sevoich was scheduled to be arraigned in Lynn District Court on March 18. Under state law, if convicted, Sevoich could face up to nine years in prison and up to $13,500 in fi nes. BECOME A VITA VOLUNTEER VOLUNTEER WITH LEO INC! LEO Inc. offers free tax help through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program time as the incident is still under investigation. Anyone with information about this incident or who might have witnessed suspicious activity in the area is asked to call Saugus Police at 781-233-1740. FREE HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE FOR INCOME ELIGIBLE HOUSEHOLDS Want to apply? Call 781.581.7220 M - F 8:30 - 4:30, visit toapply.org/LEO, or scan the QR code for the fuel application! Applications accepted through 4/30/22 Fuel assistance for residents of Lynn, Lynnfield, Nahant, Saugus, Swampscott, and Wakefield LEO provides free assistance to help pay for heating costs through April 30, 2022
Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2022 Boston Bruins vs Nifty All-Stars to benefit kidney cancer research in Memory of Dr. Rachael Smith The Boston Bruins Alumni recently faced off against the Nifty All-Stars in Winthrop’s Larsen Rink at the Eruzione Center for a charity fundraiser to benefi t kidney cancer research. Following the game an “After Party” was held at the Orient Heights Yacht Club. Dr. Rachel Smith recently passed away and her family – husband Dave and children Daniel and Sydney – were on hand to accept the check. Daniel and Sydney took part in a puck dropping ceremony. State Rep. Donald Wong was on hand for the game; he is shown with Bruins Goalie Keith Segee and Todd Angilly, who performed the National Anthem. Matignon Hockey Head Coach DJ Pinkham, some of his players and Boston Bruins alumni Bob Sweeney, Andrew Alberts and Ken Hodge Jr. Bruins great Capt. Rick Middleton waves to the crowd at Larsen Rink; at right is State Representative Donald Wong. Daniel and Sydney Turk – at center ice to drop the puck – are shown with Boston Bruins Bob Sweeney and Rick Middleton and Captain of the Nifty All-Stars/ event organizer Kevin Chiles. Dr. Rachael Smith’s family – David, Daniel and Sydney – accepted a check from Rick Middleton, Kevin Chiles and Bob Sweeney; the proceeds will go to kidney cancer research. Nifty All-Stars Capt. Kevin Chiles, who was the event organizer. Daniel and Sydney Turk are shown with the Boston Bruins Alumni and the Nifty All-Stars at Larsen Rink.
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2022 Page 11 SAUGUS GARDENS IN THE SPRING Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable By Laura Eisener A ny walk around town will show many signs of spring this week – small herring were jumping in the river off the Saugus Iron Works pier; peepers have started their spring music in vernal pools; almost all traces of ice and snow are gone; and the fi rst fl owers are popping up in many gardens. I have nine diff erent things in bloom outdoors today: snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis), heath (Erica darleyensis ‘Mediterranean Pink’ – blooming since mid-February), crocus (Crocus tomassinianus and Dutch hybrids), ‘Katharine Hodgkin’ iris (Iris ‘Katharine Hodgkin’), hellebores (Helleborus orientalis), winter aconite (Eranthis hyemalis), Siberian squill (Scilla sibirica) and Chinese witch hazel (Hamamelis chinensis) were all in fl ower on March 20, and two daff odils (Narcissus spp.) joined them the following day. Three things are blooming right now which are members of the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae): Lenten rose (Helleborus orientalis) and winter aconite (Eranthis hyemalis) outside, Persian buttercup (Ranunculus asiatica) inside. The Lenten rose that was showing its dark red buds near the front steps back in late January finally decided that it was warm enough to completely open. These are hybrids similar to the ones that bloomed indoors back at the end of February, but they have been living outside for several years now. As soon as the temperatures indoors and outdoors are close enough to prevent shocking the plants, the indoor Lenten roses will be planted outside, where I MONTAUK DAISIES, which are among the last fl owers to bloom in fall, are among the earliest perennials that produce new leaves in spring. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) THE UNDERSIDE OF A SNOWDROP shows its three small petals and three long sepals. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) WINTER ACONITE provides nectar and shelter for an early bee. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) PERSIAN BUTTERCUP, also known as ranunculus, has densely packed petals and is a great indoor plant for early spring. This one is an unusual two-tone color: white with a light lilac picotee edge. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) hope to enjoy them for years to come. As evergreen perennials, the leaves remain green until nearly blooming time, then they begin to turn brownish and dry, while new leaves emerge around the same time as the new blooms. Indoors, the leaves do not dry out as noticeably. Winter aconite is one of the lesser-known early spring bulbs. It is one of the few bulbs that does not belong to the amaryllis family (AmaryllidaceEverett 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 THE LENTEN ROSE beside my front steps fi nally bloomed this week. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) ae) or the lily family (Liliaceae), but instead to the buttercup family. Looking at the bright yellow color, it is easy to understand its connection to common buttercups (Ranunculus acris), which may be weeds in our lawns later this spring. Part of the reason it is not as widely grown as some other early bloomers is that the tuber does not tolerate a long, dried out dormancy. It cannot take the long period of storage and shipping that tulip and daffodil bulbs can, and must be planted earlier in fall. Also, winter aconite is unusual in that it actually prefers to be somewhat shaded during the growing season. As with some other buttercup family members, the petals are nearly nonexistent, and it is the sepals which have the bright yellow color. The short-stalked fl owers are framed by tiny green leaves at bloom time. In England’s milder climate where the fl owers bloom a bit earlier in the calendar year than in New England, it is sometimes nicknamed “New Year’s Gift.” The species epithet “hyemalis” actually means wintery. Mine began blooming during last Friday’s warm weather. The first bee of the year was sleeping in it by sundown of that day and spent a good deal of Saturday clasped in the blossom. Like the crocus, which is also in bloom now, the fl ower closes at night and in cloudy or cold weather to protect the delicate parts from being damaged. While not common in our local gardens, a popular late winter/early spring greenhouse fl ower is Persian buttercup. Often simply called fl orists’ ranunculus, or sometimes misunderstood as ranuncula (singular) or ranunculas (plural), the blossom is so crowded with colorful petals it could compete with a rose. While in the wild in Eurasia fl owers are usually yellow, it now is available in almost every color except true blue. It prefers night temperatures that are cool, but not freezing, for fl owering. It is currently a popular cut fl ower as well as potted houseplant. It demands frequent watering and will wilt alarmingly if it dries out, but as long as it gets promptly watered it will be back to its beautiful self in just a few hours. Editor’s Note: Laura Eisener is a landscape design consultant who helps homeowners with landscape design, plant selection and placement of trees and shrubs, as well as perennials. She is a member of the Saugus Garden Club and 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. Spring is Here!
Page 12 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2022 By Mark E. Vogler THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS “The answer to last week’s sketch is Saugonian James Community Garden meeting tomorrow It was nearly a year ago that Rev. John T. Beach put the wheels in motion for a mission to transform the yard behind the St. John’s Episcopal Church rectory into a community garden to help fi ght food insecurity in Saugus. That was quite an ambitious project that generated a lot of love and kindness in the community. “We were able to provide several hundred pounds of vegetables to the Saugus food pantry,” he wrote in an email that caught my eye this week. “Thank you all for the help you have given last spring and summer in making the Saugus Community Garden such a success,” Rev. Beach wrote. “It is my hope and expectation to plant the garden again this summer and would like to invite any interested and available persons to help. It is my hope that some among you might be able to grow some seeds in your homes as we wait for the warm weather to come,” he said. Rev. Beach plans on having a brief organizational Zoom meeting tomorrow (Saturday, March 26) at 1 p.m. using the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89211864138. “If you are interested in helping but not able to attend this meeting, let me know,” Rev. Beach said. “I am planning to have a follow up meeting in the near future,” he said. What a wonderful project that is worth repeating. Hopefully, many more people will get involved in the project this year. If you want to help out, Rev. Beach can be reached by phone at 774-961-9881 or by email at revjbeach@gmail.com. We have a winner! Congratulations to Jean Lyons for making the right identifi cation in last week’s “Guess Who got Sketched!” contest. She was one of several readers answering correctly, and the one who had her 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: CONTEST SKETCH OF THE WEEK Donovan, who was born in the old Saugus General Hospital. James Donovan recently retired as a Saugus Police Detective after 32 years! “In James’ sketch, I tried to capture the essence of his attentive listening mode and depth of character. James is a Marine Veteran and holds a blackbelt in Karate, which is no easy accomplishment. “To obtain such a rank as blackbelt, one must achieve through white, orange, blue, yellow, green and brown belts and that usually takes fi ve years, fi ve hour exam, knowledge of the 3 creeds Courtesy, Integrity, perseverance, self control, indomitable spirit and many other teachings. “This takes a lot of hard work, high standards, and much practice endurance. Bruce Lee’s Martial Arts movie star has never held a black belt to my understanding. “Editor Mark E. Vogler interviewed Detective Donovan in The Saugus Advocate ‘The Advocate Asks’ March 11, Front cover, page 5, 6, 7,8, 9, 22. “In the article, Detective Donovan states ‘your job is basically to help people. Unfortunately, we have to do things sometimes people don’t like. Nobody likes to hear a knock on the door from police offi cers. But we are there to help, whether it’s a missing child, somebody with Alzheimer’s who is out walking around – your job is to bring them back. If somebody gets hurt, you provide fi rst aid. You help. Those are the good sides to what we do. Unfortunately, that doesn’t make the papers that often. It’s always the negative. But thank you for giving me the chance to share something about my fi eld.’ The article speaks volumes about Detective James’ positive approach and attitude as a police offi cer. “James and his wife of 35 years (who recently passed) have two kids Paul (Boston Firefi ghter) & Rachel (Firefi ghter candidate) both are following in their Dad’s footsteps in fi elds of Public service. “Deepest, empathetic condolences for the loss of your wife. Keep shining your bright light with your family’s lights! “Thank you “Yours Truly, “The Sketch Artist” A “Shout-Out” to Tracey Ragucci Precinct 6 Town Meeting Member Jeanie Bartolo, a prolific contributor to this column, off ered high praise this week to a well-respected Saugus educator: “This ‘Shout Out’ for Tracey Ragucci, Principal of the Belmont STEAM Academy. It is sad she is stepping down as Principal, as she has accomplished so much for the school during her 8 years; renovating the Belmonte, implementing the STEAM curriculum, and getting the students through COVID Pandemic just to name a few. The upside of this is that she will be back in the classroom because all the kids love her! Best of luck Tracey!” Want to “Shout-Out” a fellow Saugonian? This is an opportunity for our paper’s readers to single out – in a brief mention – remarkable acts or achievements by Saugus residents or an act of kindness or a nice gesture. Just send an email (mvoge@comcast.net) with a mention in the subject line of “An Extra Shout-Out.” No more than a paragraph; anything longer might lend itself to a story and/or a photo. 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”) Buy a brick to honor a Saugus veteran The Saugus War Monument Committee once again is sponsoring the Buy A Brick Program to honor all those who have served their country. If you would like to purchase one in the name of someone who is presently serving or has served, in the memory of a loved one, or just from your family, school, etc., the general pricing is $100 for a 4” X 8” brick (three lines) and $200 for an 8” X 8” brick (fi ve lines). Each line is a maximum of 15 characters. The improvement and upkeep of the monument on the corner of Winter and Central Streets rely on the generosity of donors through fundraising. The brick application must be in by Sept. 15 to ensure the bricks will be ready for Veterans Day. Please contact Corinne Riley (781-231-7995) for more information and applications. Help the Vietnam Era vets roll to D.C. A group of area veterans leaders continue to organize an all-expenses-paid trip to the nation’s capital in September for 45 veterans who served during the Vietnam War in all locations – not just in combat. 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 to help make that trip a reality for Vietnam Era veterans. Whether it’s dine-in, take-out, 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. 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 781-231-4170 or email Stacy Billingsley at sbillingsley@saugus-ma.gov. Capt. Cross to address Saugus Historical Society Fire Captain Billy Cross will be the speaker at the April 13 Meeting of the Saugus Historical Society. The brief business meeting starts at 7 p.m. followed by the program. The public is invited free of charge, and light refreshments will be served. The speaker, William Cross III, grew up in Saugus, attending the Evans School, Belmonte Junior High and Saugus High. He has been a fi refi ghter in this town for 28 years and is the president of the Firefi ghters’ Local 1003. Captain Cross is a 2008 recipient of the Medal of Valor for an off duty rescue. He has served as a Town Meeting member, and he is a longtime member of the Saugus retirement board. His father was a fi refi ghter in Chelsea and his son Patrick is also a Saugus fi refi ghter. He will be speaking about many aspects of fi re service. The fi re department responds to many kinds of events in town, including fl oods and weather emergencies as well as fi res. This will be a very interesting and lively presentation. An encore tribute for Mike Gaff ney The Feb. 15 Board of Selectmen’s meeting was supposed to be the last one for Saugus Advertiser Editor Michael Gaff - ney, who informed the board that night that he was calling it a career after 18 years of covering Saugus. On that night, selectmen called Mike to the lectern so they could individually thank him for nearly two decades of newspaper coverage. As it turned out, Mike delayed his departure a few weeks, so this past Tuesday night (March 29) actually became his fi nal meeting. That gave selectmen time to give the soft-spoken and hard-working community journalist time for a more fi tting tribute. Selectmen opened the meeting at 7 p.m. by presenting Mike with a citation in recognition of his years of covering the town. It is a rarity for newspaper journalists in this day and age to hang around as long as Mike has, researching and writing stories about the good times and bad times in one little town – including major news stories, human interest stories, local government events, police and fi re – you name it. For 18 years, Mike has been a major source of public information for the people of Saugus. Presenting Mike with the citation on Tuesday night was a classy move by this Board of Selectmen. A rare tribute indeed to be bestowed upon a local reporter. But defi nitely, it was well-deserved, as few of us local journalists have focused their time and talents in one community for so long. Well done, Mike. Lenten Bible Study at St. Johns 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 info: March 31: Isaiah 42:1-9 (First Servant Song). This Gathering will take place on Zoom and will begin at noon Eastern Standard THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | SEE PAGE 13
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2022 Page 13 THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | FROM PAGE 12 Time. Please contact The Rev. John Beach (revjbeach@ gmail.com) to register – or by phone – 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 the library for any or all of these programs. They’re all free on Zoom, but registration is required for each program. See the library’s 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 singlehandedly. 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, at 7 p.m.: When WBZ’s Jordan Rich and court reporter Diane Godfrey discuss their true crime podcast “All Rise”. Diane and co-host Jordan 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 alumni who would like to join them. 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 Class of 2022. This is a scholarship for students who will be attending a two/four-year college or other educational institution and pursuing a degree in an area that would positively impact the environment. Applicants can download the SAVE 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 are back! 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 appétit! 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; the library does 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 have Live Bingo on Wednesday, 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. 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 to gain some important insights on how to make these essential decisions. THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | SEE PAGE 15 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
Page 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2022 ADVOCATE | FROM PAGE 3 A: I’ve never seen “The Wall.” I’ve never seen any of the monuments in Washington. I’ve been to Washington once – by accident – driving through it. This is a “Bucket List” wish, and I’d like to go. Q: So, what’s the main reason for this being on your “Bucket List”? A: I am going to be 75 in a couple of weeks (May 9) and I’d like to see “The Wall” before it’s too late. Q: Do you have some buddies who you served with whose names are on that wall? A: Oh yes – a few men I served with who died serving their country. One of them was a friend who I grew up with. He was a buddy I had in my teens from Mattapan. The last time I saw him was in March of 1966 on Parris Island. We were having a cigarette together. I was wounded in August of 1967. I was medevaced to Chelsea Naval Hospital and that’s when I found out he was killed. They named a square after him in Mattapan. Q: So, when did you decide you wanted to go on this “Roll to DC” trip? A: I was at the Saugus Veterans Council meeting on Monday, the 7th of March. Jay Pinette, the Veterans Service Offi - cer, presented this at the meeting. I texted my wife to see if I could get permission. “Can I go?” I asked. And she said, “Sure.” And that’s when I made up my mind. Q: What are your expectations of the trip? What do you hope to get out of it? A: Some peace of mind and to show some respect to those whose names are on the wall. I get to touch the names of people I knew and served with. Getting to see them and touch the wall – it’s going to be a special, moving and emotional experience for me. FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE: A display case holds the Purple Heart and other medals and military decorations that Lester Markovitz earned as a U.S. Marine and Vietnam War veteran who was wounded in combat. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) Q: After your service, did you go to college? A: I went to Boston University on the GI Bill. I attended in 1969, 1970 and 1971, and then I had to leave. Q: Why? A: They treated me very badly – the teachers and the students. I left four courses short of getting my degree. I was totally alienated by teachers and students alike. I just couldn’t go to class anymore. The Marines got badmouthed during those days. So did the Army, but not as much so. The Marines got it more. We were “the Baby killers.” Teachers and students made Vietnam veterans like me feel ostracized. Q: Anything else that you would like to share with our readers? A: If I am fortunate enough to be a part of “Roll to DC.” I want to thank all of those people who made this trip possible for me to go on. I want to thank them very much. This is not a vacation for me: It’s a destination or a pilgrimage. Being a Vietnam combat veteran, I’ve never seen the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. I have friends whose names are on that wall. After coming home from the war, I’ve tried to lead a decent life in honor of the memory of the people I served with who gave their lives. And part of this trip is a chance to show respect for those who fought for their country and died. About “Roll to DC” Plans are underway to send about 45 Vietnam Era veterans from Saugus, Melrose and Wakefi eld on an expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., this fall so they can get to see the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The five-dayfour-night bus trip called “Roll to DC” will be held from September 11–15 and will include wreath-laying ceremonies at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the Tomb of Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, as well as other stops in the D.C. area. All attendees will be staying at The Presidential Inn at Joint Base Andrews. For the purposes of this trip, the organizers will make no distinction between Veterans who served in-country, in-theater or who were stationed elsewhere during the Vietnam War period. Vietnam Era veterans in Saugus who are interested in applying for the trip, or who would like to obtain additional information about the trip, are asked to contact the Saugus Veterans Offi ce by phone (781-231-4010) or in person on the fi rst fl oor of Saugus Town Hall at 298 Central St., Saugus, Mass. Applications will be accepted on a fi rst come, fi rst served basis. Applications cannot be accepted unless they include the following documentation: * Copy of DD-214 * Copy of COVID-19 Vaccination Card (vaccines and booster are required) * Copy of Current/Valid Picture ID/Driver’s License (front & back) * Completed CORI Form (Please note that some of these documents are required in order to enter and stay on Joint Base Andrews.) Saugus Knights of Columbus 57 Appleton Street, Saugus Indoor Flea Market Saturday, April 2 and April 9 8:00 - 4:00 Great deals will be available on collectibles, gifts, Sip & Shop BY JIM MILLER What to Do with Cremated Ashes Scatter them at sea: If Dear Savvy Senior, A while back I saw an article on diff erent ways to scatter a person’s ashes after they’re cremated, but I’ve misplaced it. Can you help me with this? I’m preplanning my funeral and would like to include instructions on what to do with my remains that my family will appreciate. Planning Ahead Dear Planning, There’s no shortage of options when it comes to handling or disposing of your cremated remains after you’re gone. Your family can keep, bury or scatter them in a variety of imaginative ways that refl ect your life and personality. Here are some different options to consider. Scatter them: The most popular option is to have your ashes scattered at a location you loved to be i.e., a favorite fi shing spot, camping area, golf course, beach, park or at home. If you choose this route, keep in mind that some places, such as national parks, require a permit. And many public areas, like parks or sports stadiums may prohibit scattering. Store them at home: Many families choose to keep their loved ones close, by storing them at home. If you and your family choses this option, you can purchase a decorative urn through your funeral provider or online at Amazon. com. Or you may want to use an old cookie jar or favorite container that reminds your family of you. Bury/inter them: The burial option is good if you wish to have a special place for your family to visit. This is also the only option for cremated ashes sanctioned by the Catholic Church, which specifi es that ashes of the dead should be kept in sacred places like a cemetery or a columbarium and not kept at home or scattered. Plant them: If you’re the environmental type, you can have your ashes planted with a tree. There are companies that off er living urns – like TheLivingUrn.com or UrnaBios.com – that mix your ashes with other nutrients that can be used to grow a plant or tree in your yard or a place of your choosing. you love the water, there are many businesses that offer ash scattering services at sea, especially close to coastal areas, or your family could rent a boat and do it themselves. There are also companies like EternalReefs.com that off er reef memorials so your ashes can rest on the ocean fl oor. Scatter them by air: This option will scatter your ashes into the sky so the particles can be taken by the wind. To do this, they could hire a private plane, helicopter or hot air balloon service, or use a balloon scattering service like Mesoloft.com. Or they could even send your ashes into outer space with Celestis.com. Turn them into a record: If you love music, a UK company called Vinlyly (Andvinyly.com) will turn your ashes into a vinyl record. You supply the music (or voice recording) and cover image, and the company creates a memorial that your family can listen to for years to come. Turn them into jewelry or glass: If you love jewelry or glass trinkets, there are companies – like CloseByMeJewelry.com, SpiritPieces.com and ArtFromAshes.com – that will turn your ashes into wearable jewelry or glass art memorials. Go out with a bang: If you’re a hunter or a gun lover, a company called Holy Smoke (MyHolySmoke.com) will create loaded ammunition out of cremated remains. Your family could store the ammo in the engraved wooden box it comes in, or they can send you off in a gun salute. Turn them into art: If you love art, arrange for an artists or family member to paint your portrait, or a picture, with some of your ashes mixed into the paint. Or, if your family is into tattoos, many tattoo artists will mix some ashes with ink to create a memorial tattoo. 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 25, 2022 Page 15 THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | FROM PAGE 13 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 you are interested in becoming a member of this local organization, please call 781-233-9858. Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus (Editor’s Note: The following info is from an announcement submitted by Julie Cicolini, a member of the Board of Directors of 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 prebagged groceries. Even though clients may receive items they don’t want or need, food pantry organizers feel this is the best course of action to mitigate the potential spread of COVID-19. Those in need, even for short-term or one-time assistance, are encouraged to come. The food pantry is located in the basement of Cliftondale Congregational Church at 50 Essex St. in Saugus. Clarifying some veterans issues Jay Pinette, the Veterans Services 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 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 onpowered by what? 7. Florentine-style dishes have what vegetable? 8. Which U.S. city is the larg1. March 25 is International Waffl e Day; what famous Belgian painter’s work included a fi nely detailed painting of waffl es in “Fight between Carnival and Lent” (1559)? 2. The word “chortle” fi rst appeared in what nonsense poem by Lewis Carroll? 3. On March 26, 1964, the musical “Funny Girl” opened in NYC with what star? 4. What is the longest species of worm: bootlace worm, bristle worm or fl uke? 5. The “bark lion sentinel dog” – more commonly called Lhasa apso – is native to what country: China, Indonesia or Tibet? 6. On March 27, 1841, at City Hall in NYC, the first horse-drawn fire engine in the USA was tested; it was est founded in the 1900s? 9. What TV show theme song mentions two slang expressions for oil? 10. On March 28, 1881, the Barnum & Bailey Circus was founded, which was to exhibit what famous named animal? 11. What children’s book character has a bronze statue in Kensington Gardens in London? 12. What is the Italian word for a grilled sandwich? 13. What computer language logo includes a blue cup with red steam? 14. On March 29, 1848, what North American waterfall was reduced to a trickle 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 Offi ces 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 Offi ce to determine eligibility. VSO Jay Pinette can be reached at 781-231-4010 or at jpinette@saugus-ma.gov. Or on the fi rst fl oor 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 781-231-4010. 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 due to gale force winds creating an ice jam? 15. What 17th century EnTHE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | SEE PAGE 18 ANSWERS glishman wrote the plays “Volpone, “The Alchemist” and “Every Man in His Humor” (fi rst performed at The Globe Theatre)? 16. In March 2022 what sport has a world cup for women? 17. What famous Italian painter was born in Vinci in Tuscany? 18. March 30 is Manatee Appreciation Day; what is a nickname for manatee? 19. How are the Blue Nile, the White Nile and Atbara similar? 20. On March 31, 1930, what U.S. code of entertainment guidelines was instituted? 1. Pieter Bruegel the Elder 2. “Jabberwocky” 3. Barbra Streisand 4. Bootlace worm 5. Tibet 6. Steam 7. Spinach 8. Las Vegas 9. “The Ballad of Jed Clampett” (of The Beverly Hillbillies series – Texas tea and black gold) 10. Jumbo, the World’s Largest Elephant 11. Peter Pan 12. Panini 13. Java 14. Niagara Falls 15. Ben Jonson 16. Cricket (the Women’s Cricket World Cup) 17. Leonardo da Vinci 18. Sea cow 19. They are tributaries of the Nile River. 20. The Motion Picture Production Code
Page 16 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2022 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. For more information and to get your free subscription, go to: www. massterlist.com/subscribe THIS WEEK ON SAUGUS TV Sunday, March 27 from 9–11 p.m. on Channel 8 – “Sunday Night Stooges” (The Three Stooges). Monday, March 28 all day on Channel 8 – “Movie Monday” (classic movies). Tuesday, March 29 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 9 – Finance Committee Meeting from March 23. Wednesday, March 30 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 9 – School Committee Meeting from March 24. Thursday, March 31 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 9 – Board of Appeals Meeting from March 24. Friday, April 1 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 9 – Board of Selectmen Meeting from March 22. Saturday, April 2 at 12:00 p.m. on Channel 8 – Memories of The Boston Garden with Rocky Raymond. 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*** THE HOUSE AND SENATE: Beacon Hill roll Call records local representatives’ votes on roll calls from the week of March 14-18. There were no roll calls in the Senate last week. FORBID DISCRIMINATION AGAINST A PERSON WITH A NATURAL HAIRSTYLE (H 4554) House 155-0, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would prohibit any person or entity including educational institutions, workplaces and public spaces from implementing any policy that would explicitly target someone who wears their natural hairstyle. The measure defi nes natural hairstyle as “hair texture, hair type and protective hairstyles including braids, locks, twists and other formations.” The bill also expands existing anti-bullying law in schools to include recognition for students who may be more vulnerable to bullying or harassment because of their natural hairstyle. Another provision requires the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination to investigate complaints filed against employers who have discriminated based on natural hairstyle. “This is an historic moment for Massachusetts. I am beyond delighted that the [bill] passed unanimously in the House, and words cannot describe how great it is to see the years of hard work from advocates, staff , legislators and community members bear fruit,” said co-sponsor Rep. Steve Ultrino (D-Malden). “Today, the votes in our chamber sent a clear message: race-based discrimination has no place in our commonwealth. On this day, we ensured that a person’s racial and cultural identity will no longer be an obstacle to their education, professional career and path to success.” There was a light moment during fl oor debate on the bill. “As you may have guessed, I have never experienced hair discrimination,” said Rep. Ultrino, who is bald. “People of color across the commonwealth, particularly Black women, continue to face discrimination in school, in the workplace and in public spaces based on the texture and style of their hair,” said Rep. Michael Day (D-Stoneham), House Chairman of the Committee on the Judiciary. “It is racism, and this bill is necessary to address continued attempts to outfl ank our laws against discrimination based on race.” The House approved the bill in the 2019-2020 session on July 31, 2020 and sent it to the Senate Ways and Means Committee where it died without further action and without a vote by the full Senate. Beacon Hill Roll Call asked Senate President Karen Spika (D-Ashland) and Senate Ways and Means chair Sen. Mike Rodrigues (D-Westport) to explain why the Senate Ways and Means Committee in 2020 did not act on what seems to be a non-controversial bill and if they think the bill will die in committee again this year or get through the committee and be approved the Senate. Despite repeated requests, neither Spilka’s office nor Rodrigues’ office responded. (A “Yes” vote is for the bill). Rep. Jessica Giannino Yes Rep. Donald Wong Yes CREATING WOMEN’S RIGHTS HISTORY TRAIL PROGRAM (H 4555) House 154-0, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would require the state to develop and implement a Women’s Rights History Trail program. The measure includes requiring the state to designate properties and sites that are historically and thematically associated with the struggle for women’s rights and women’s suff rage. Another provision provides that the state promote education and awareness of the struggle for women’s BHRC | SEE PAGE 17
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 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 rights in the commonwealth. A 13-member Women’s Rights History Trail Task Force would be formed to research, solicit public input and make recommendations for sites, properties and attractions to be included in the trail. “I am humbled and proud to sponsor this legislation,” said Rep. Hannah Kane (R-ShrewsSELLER1 bury). “This legislation ensures that the many women from our commonwealth who contributed to the fabric of our nation and democracy are recognized, and their accomplishments preserved in our state’s history, so that their legacies may serve as inspiration for future generations of young women.” “The establishment of this trail continues MassachuSELLER2 Lam, Yuk HTom, Kwok CAnthony Curtis TStaff -Fraga, Cindy setts’ commitment to honoring women while also creating additional tourism and economic opportunities across the commonwealth,” said Rep. Carole Fiola (D-Fall River), House Chair of the Committee on Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development. “It was an honor to pass this legislation during Women’s History Month.” The House approved the bill in the 2019-2020 session on September 18, 2020 and sent it to the Senate Ways and Means Committee where it died without further action and without a vote by the Senate. Beacon Hill Roll Call again asked Senate President Karen Spika (D-Ashland) and Senate Ways and Means chair Sen. Mike Rodrigues (D-Westport) to explain why the bill died in the Senate in 2020 and if they think the bill will die in committee again this year or be approved the Senate. Despite repeated requests, neither Spilka’s offi ce nor Rodrigues’ offi ce responded. (A “Yes” vote is for the bill). Rep. Jessica Giannino Yes Rep. Donald Wong 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 work and other matters that are important to their districts. Critics say that the Legislature does not meet regularly or long enough to debate and vote in public view on the thousands of pieces of legislation that have been fi led. They note that the infrequency and brief length of sessions are misguided and lead to irresponsible latenight sessions and a mad rush to act on dozens of bills in the days immediately preceding the end of an annual session. During the week of March 14-18, the House met for a total of three hours and 53 minutes and the Senate met for a total of 56 minutes. Mon. March 14 House 11:02 a.m. to 11:11 a.m. Senate 11:10 a.m. to 11:17 a.m. ADDRESS 36 Essex St #8 CITY DATE PRICE 23.02.2022 $300 000,00 Saugus ~LEGAL NOTICE~ SAUGUS BOARD OF SELECTMEN PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Saugus Board of Selectmen will conduct a public hearing on the request of Marao Burgers, Inc, for a Common Victualer’ license to be located at 1 Main Street, Saugus, MA 09106 Manager Mario Alves. The Public Hearing will be held on April 19, 2022, at the Signed: Chairman Anthony Cogliano Janice K. Jarosz, Temp Clerk March 25, 2022 ~LEGAL NOTICE~ SAUGUS BOARD OF SELECTMEN PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Saugus Board of Selectmen will conduct a public hearing on the request of Red Rover # 3 Company LLC, for a Special Permit (S2), to be located at 172 Lynn Fells Parkway, Saugus, MA, 01906. Mark Colleton, General Manager. The Public Hearing will be held on April 19, 2022, at the Street at 7:30 PM. Signed: Chairman Anthony Cogliano Janice K. Jarosz, Temp Clerk March 25 & April 1, 2022 ~LEGAL NOTICE~ SAUGUS BOARD OF SELECTMEN PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Saugus Board of Selectmen will conduct a public hearing on the request of Mr. Rodrigo S. Almeida for a Special Permit (S-2) to open Way of Life BSS Fitness School to be located at 999 Broadway, Saugus, MA 01906. The Public Hearing will be held on April 19, 2022, at the Street at 7:15 PM. Signed: Chairman Anthony Cogliano Janice K. Jarosz, Temp Clerk March 25 & April 1, 2022 Tues. March 15 No House session No Senate session Wed. March 16 No House session No Senate session Thurs. March 17 House 11:05 a.m. to 2:49 p.m. Senate 11:19 a.m. to 12:08 p.m. Fri. March 18 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.
Page 18 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2022 THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | FROM PAGE 15 $8,400.00 (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. 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 AdvoFRANK’S Housepainting (781) 289-0698 • Exterior • Ceiling Dr. • Power Wash • Paper Removal • Carpentry FREE ESTIMATES — Fully Insured cate 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 coff ee 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. “Proper prep makes all the difference” – F. Ferrera • Interior ADVOCATE Call now! 781 233 4446 We follow Social Distancing Guidelines!
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2022 Page 19 Follow Us On: COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY SALES & RENTALS Happy Spring! A great time to think of selling or buying! Call today for a free market analysis. Sandy Juliano Broker/President NEW LISTING BY SANDY WE KNOW EVERETT!! Call TODAY to sell or buy with the best! NEW LISTING OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY MARCH 26, 2022 12:00-2:00 TWO FAMILY THREE FAMILY 46-48 OLIVER STREET EVERETT CALL SANDY FOR DETAILS! 129 CLARENCE ST., EVERETT $779,900 CALL SANDY FOR DETAILS! 617-448-0854 NEW LISTING SOLD BY NORMA AS BUYER’S AGENT TAUNTON FOR RENT THREE ROOM ONE BEDROOM APT. ONE CAR OFF STREET PARKING. $1,750/MO. NO SMOKING. NO PETS. SOLD BY SANDY! HUGE 3 FAMILY 21-23 CLEVELAND AVE., EVERETT $980,000 UNDER AGREEMENT 32 RIDGE RD., READING $675,000 NEW LISTING BY NORMA TWO BEDROOM REVERE $2,000/MO. SOLD BY JOE! 6 FAMILY CHARLES STREET, MALDEN $1,250,000 CALL JOE FOR DETAILS 617-680-7610 UNDER AGREEMENT SINGLE FAMILY 20 BAKER RD., EVERETT $509,900 SOLD BY MICHAEL AS BUYER’S AGENT 58 BRADFORD ST. EVERETT Joe DiNuzzo Norma Capuano Parziale - Broker Associate O D il F - Agent Open Daily From 10:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. 433 Broadway, Suite B, Everett, MA 02149 www.jrs-properties.com 10 00 A M 5 00 PM Denise Matarazz - Agent Maria Scrima - Agent Follow Us On: 617.448.0854 Rosemarie Ciampi - Agent Michael Matarazzo -Agent Mark Sachetta - Agent
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