Page 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, April 25, 2025 Parson Roby Chapter of DAR honors six local residents for community service (Editor’s Note: The following info is based on a press release that was recently issued by the Parson Roby Chapter of the Daughters American Revolution [DAR] of Saugus.) O n Saturday, April 5th, the Parson Roby Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution of Saugus held an award ceremony followed by a luncheon at the MEG. The awards given were to recognize a Good Citizen of Saugus Middle High School, Community Service, Service to Veterans and the 125th Anniversary DAR Hospital Corp pin. The Good Citizens Award recognizes outstanding young people who demonstrate dependability, respect, leadership, community service and patriotism. The recipient of the Good Citizen’s Award was Rose Emery Matthias of Saugus Middle High School. She was chosen by the administrators and teachers of her HS. Rose is a member of the National Honor Society and the Environmental Club and President of the Young Feminist Alliance. She also volunteers at the Northeast Animal Shelter in Salem, and her future plans are to attend University of Massachusetts Amherst to major in Veterinary Medicine. She wrote an impressive essay on what it means to be a Good Citizen during the revolution compared to today, which was outstanding. She received a DAR Good Citizens GOOD CITIZENSHIP AWARD: Charlotte Line, DAR Good Citizen Chairman, with this year’s recipient, Rose Emery Matthias. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD: Local DAR Regent Gail Cassarino with Crystal Cakounes and her six-year-old son, Brackett. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) pin, a certifi cate and a monetary gift. The Community Service Award recipient was Crystal Cakounes, a tireless and passionate advocate for her town and its people. For over two decades, Crystal has been a cornerstone of the Saugus Youth & Recreation Center, where her dedication and love for the community have touched countless lives. Crystal’s impact goes far beyond her offi cial role. She has been instrumental in organizing beloved town events, such as Founders Day and the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, both of which have become cherished traditions thanks to her creativity, organization and enthusiasm. Her colLawn and Yard Care USA It’s Time For SPRING CLEANOUTS Cutting, Weeding, Mulching, Trimming, Brushes, Shrubs & More! 781-521-9927 leagues recognize her as a driving force behind the scenes, with coworker Emily remarking, “Crystal is amazing, and we are beyond lucky to have a fellow Sachem like her. She keeps the spirit of Saugus alive with everything she does.” Known for her warm heart and can-do attitude, Crystal is not only a mentor and advocate for children but also a pillar of support for parents, teachers, and fellow community members. She constantly looks for new ways to serve, never hesitating to step in wherever help is needed. Crystal Cakounes doesn’t just work in Saugus – she lives and breathes it. Her devotion to making a difference, particularly for the youth of the town, exemplifies the true meaning of community service. Saugus is stronger, kinder and more connected because of her. Two other Community Award recipients were Corinne and Chris Riley, a dynamic duo whose quiet dedication and selfl ess service have made a lasting impact on the town of Saugus – especially its veteran community. Humble and hardworking, Corinne and Chris are not ones to seek recognition. They simply do what needs to be done, always with the goal of bettering their community. A SAUGUS COUPLE RECOGNIZED: Chris and Corinne Riley were honored for their community service. Local DAR Regent Gail Cassarino made the presentation. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) Their eff orts are often behind the scenes, but their infl uence is felt throughout the town. Corinne oversees the Veterans Brick Program, a meaningful initiative that raises funds to support the ongoing care and maintenance of Veterans Park – a space that was offi cially named by Chris himself. Together, their work ensures that the sacrifi ces of our veterans are honored and remembered with dignity. Corinne also founded the 4-1-1 Event, a welcoming initiative designed to introduce new Saugus residents to the town’s many nonprofi t organizations and community resources. It’s just one more example of how she connects people and creates opportunities for involvement. Beyond their work with veterans, Corinne and Chris have volunteered extensively in nearly every corner of Saugus life – from local churches and the PTO to Scouts, schools, the library and the Saugus Lions Club. Their generosity of time and spirit has touched people of all ages. As Corinne once said, “There are people who talk, and there are people who do.” She and Chris are undoubtedly people who do – and Saugus is all the better for it. The Service to Veterans award recipient was Jay Pinette, a dedicated and humble champion for veterans in the DAR HONORS | SEE PAGE 9 Call LAWNS Cut From $25
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