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SAUGUS Have a Safe & Happy Mother’s Day! OCAT D Vol. 27, No.19 CAT -FREE- www.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday T HOW TO RUN THE SCHOOLS: Saugus Public Schools Superintendent Michael Hashem partnered with 12-year-old Cole Gosselin during Student Government Day last week at Saugus Town Hall. Please see inside for more photos and the story. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) ATE 781-233-4446 Friday, May 9, 2025 SAUGUS LEADERS OF TOMORROW Town Meeting 2025 Members vote unanimously in support of feasibility study for West Side Public Safety and EMS response Facility By Mark E. Vogler here were seven articles passed at Monday night’s Special Town Meeting worth a million dollars or more, which totaled $17.8 million. But Article 6 – a recommendation to appropriate $825,000 on a feasibility study for a third fire station/West Side Public Safety and EMS Response Facility – drew considerably more discussion than the million dollar warrant articles did collectively. After more than 76 minutes of deliberations, Town Meeting members voted unanimously for what will be phase two of a long-sought-after public safety facility designed to improve emergency medical service response times on the west side of town. “This is a priority I’ve heard from everybody for 40 years,” Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree said, recalling unsuccessful eff orts in the past to make the project a reality. Crabtree called the fi re station/public safety project “one of the major priorities” for the town. “This is authorizing Phase Two, which we’ve never been at before – a schematic design,” he said. The town manager stressed that passage of the article does not authorize construction of the facility. But he addTOWN MEETING | SEE PAGE 2

TOWN MEETING | FROM PAGE 1 Page 2 ed that completion of Phase Two would enable the town to present the project to town voters in an understandable fashion. “This is a priority for the town. We need a plan so Town Meeting and the public can be educated on it,” the town manager said. Context Architecture, a Boston-based firm with experience in developing the designs for public safety buildings around the state, several weeks ago at a public meeting presented the findings of a study that analyzed existing Saugus Fire Department response times and incident coverage to determine the feasibility of a new fire station/EMS public safety building and where such a facility could be located to best serve THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 the town’s public safety needs. No specific sites were identified publicly by Context Architecture, which is expected to work on Phase Two. Part of this study will narrow the number of sites down to a preferred location in northwest or southwest Saugus. A $1.2 million investment already Saugus Fire Chief Michael Newbury and Saugus Police Chief Michael Ricciardelli sat in the second floor auditorium for Town Meeting discussion of Article 6. But their testimony was not needed. Nobody spoke in opposition to the article, which read as follows: Vote to recommend $825,000 to be appropriated for the feasibility study for a third fire staLawrence 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 Lien * Personal Injury * Bankruptcy * Wrongful Death * Zoning/Permitting Litigation 300 Broadway, Suite 1, Revere * 781-286-1560 lsimeonejr@simeonelaw.net tion/West Side Public Safety and EMS Response Facility including the payment of costs incidental or related thereto; that to meet this appropriation, the Treasurer with the approval of the Board of Selectmen is authorized to borrow said amount under G.L. c44s7(1) or any other enabling authority; that the Town Manager is authorized to take any other action necessary or convenient to carry out this project. Precinct 10 Town Meeting Member Peter Manoogian presented a seven-word amendment to the article that inserted the words “inclusive of design development and schematic design” after the words “related thereto;”. “What the amendment does is memorialize the language,” Manoogian said. With the appropriation of the $825,000 for Phase Two of the feasibility study, the town will have a substantial investment before the town ever gets to vote on the project. “It will be a challenge for the community,” Manoogian said. “I’m sure some of us have thought long and hard about the possibility that we could be spending $1.2 million on something that the voters could say ‘No’ to,” Manoogian said. “Unlike the school [the new Saugus Middle-High School], which was a debt exclusion, this is going to be both a debt exclusion and a Proposition 2 ½ override, which is something that the town has never passed. The voters will in effect be asked to raise their taxes permanently for this for the manpower, which they didn’t support back in the mid 90’s,” he said. Manoogian was referring to the Town Meeting vote that approved the acquisition of property on the west side of Saugus and funds for a third fire station to go on the property while voting against funds to staff the fire station. “So, what this does is it makes clear what our expectations are for what we will receive in the actual article. But it also will provide, when it’s done, the evidence. This is going to be a political process at some point,” Manoogian said. “My understanding, we will not be asked for any more money. Any money for other aspects of the design – architectural, soil testing – will be part of the debt exclusion itself. So this will be the last amount of funding that will be necessary to have those facts before the voters,” he said. “And, at some point, many of us – hopefully, all of us – will have to articulate this to our constituents and to the public at large as to what that design looks like. We will have something to hold up and show, just like the school project.” Trying to avoid local politics Precinct 4 Town Meeting Member Robert J. Long, a longtime participant in town government who has been involved in past discussions about a third fire station, wanted to know the composition of the latest town committee that worked on the latest proposal. He also wanted to know the locations that the consultant is considering. Crabtree told Long that the committee consists of himself, the two public safety chiefs and the consultant that completed Phase 1. “I’m not saying I don’t support the article,” Long said. “I’m saying this should not be left exclusively to people who aren’t elected officials,” he said. Crabtree said he doesn’t oppose adding additional people to the committee. “I’m opposed to making it political,” Crabtree said. “This is about identifying what the problem is and putting a plan together. We’re going to try to keep it from becoming political,” he said. Crabtree blamed local politics for interfering with progress throughout the history of Saugus. He said the town had the same problem with the schools, the dog park and the rail trail. As far as potential locations for a public safety facility, Crabtree said the consultant did an analysis of 14 locations, but hasn’t made a decision yet. “There are professionals working on this,” Crabtree said. “We’re going to follow what the evidence is,” he said. Crabtree also noted that town officials need to convince a majority of Saugus voters that the project will benefit all residents – not just those in the west side of town where the fire station/public safety facility will be built. The challenge is demonstrating to voters how the facility will benefit the entire town, according to Crabtree. “Over 90 percent of our calls are EMS,” Crabtree said. That matters to every resident, especially when somebody is having a stroke or a heart attack, he said. “It’s about having a public safety building that benefits all of us. People need to start thinking about this globally. It affects all of us,” he said.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 Page 3 The legacy of Lt. Phillip McCullough remembering a late World War ii hero from Saugus 50 By Janice K. Jarosz Y oung Ph illip Mc - Cullough, son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard J. McCullough, was born in Saugus, Mass., on May 26, 1916, at 137 Main Street. He attended local elementary schools, graduated from Saugus High School in 1941 and enrolled in college. Shortly after he learned of the bombing of Pearl Harbor, he left school and on January 14, 1942, enlisted in the Army Air Corps as an Aviation Cadet. He then went on to become a pilot of the famous fighter P-47, Thunderbolt. During his career First Lieutenant McCullough engaged in a number of dogfights around a crippled U.S. Fortress plane and downed planes when they attacked it. Lt. Cullough stated: “The Fort was staggering along, out of formation and down pretty low when the Jerries attacked it. My wingman and I dropped them from above and had dogfights all around the Fort. I got two and my wingman got one and we were able to drive the others away.” In 1944, his commanding officer awarded him the Distinguished Flying Cross medal at an air base in England for his flights over enemy territory, according to an announcement from Major General Will E. Kepner, Command General of the Eighth Fighter Command. McCullough was a veteran of many air missions and was awarded a Medal for “meritorious service” in aerial flights and the completion of 10 operational sorties over enemy-occupied Europe. A former General Electric employee and member of the G.E. Flying Club, he was a pilot before entering the Army Air Force, having 95 solo hours to his credit. On March 20, 1944, the War Department notified his parA VETERAN OF MANY AIR MISSIONS: Saugus native Phillip McCullough was a highly decorated fighter pilot during World War II. (Courtesy Photo to The Saugus Advocate) ents that Phillip was missing in action. Ironically, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for gallantry in action just three days before he was reported missing. (He sent a letter to his parents three months later.) Here’s a report from Senior American Officer Darr H. Alkire, dated April 2, 1948, on Lt. Phillip E. McCullough, which was sent to the War Department. “To Whom it May Concern: “I met with Lt. Phillip E. McCullough, USAAF at a German POW interrogation center at Frankfurt, Germany April of 1944. I was with him constantly from that time until we were liberated at Stalag VII, [Moosburg] Germany on April 29, 1945. “When I first met him, he was in poor condition as a direct result of imprisonment in Belgium, where he had been kept in solitary confinement for a protracted period. That meant starvation and unbelievably filthy living conditions. “From Frankfurt we were transferred to Stalag III, Sagan Germany on April 27, 1944. There, conditions at the camp grew steadily worse. By December 1944, we were on quarter rations, terribly overcrowded and with little or no heat, despite the bitter cold. “Lt. McCullough soon developed a severe chest cold and was bedridden for weeks. He occupied the bunk above mine, and I can personally attest to the facts that he was a very sick man. Because of the approaching Russian armies, we were forced to evacuate the camp in January of 1945. Still sick, he collapsed on the march and was taken to the REMEMBERING | SEE PAGE 4 425r Broadway, Saugus Located adjacent to Kohls Plaza Route 1 South in Saugus at the intersection of Walnut Street We are on MBTA Bus Route 429 781-231-1111 We are a Skating Rink with Bowling Alleys, Arcade and two TV’s where the ball games are always on! PUBLIC SKATING SCHEDULE 12-7 p.m. Sunday Monday Tuesday $10.00 Price includes Roller Skates Rollerblades/inline skates $3.00 additional cost Private Parties 7:30-11 p.m. Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday $11.00 Price includes Roller Skates 18+ Adults Only After 7 PM - ID Required Private Parties Private Parties 4-8 p.m. $10.00 8:30-11 p.m. $11. 18+ Adults Only After 7 PM - ID Required 12-9 p.m. $10.00 Everyone must pay admission after 6 p.m. Sorry No Checks - ATM on site Roller skate rentals included in all prices Inline Skate Rentals $3.00 additional BIRTHDAY & PRIVATE PARTIES AVAILABLE www.roller-world.com

Page 4 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 ~ The Old Sachem ~ The final train ride for Casey Jones By Bill Stewart Y ou have probably heard one of the songs about Casey Jones and his train crash on April 30, 1900, in Vaughan, Mississippi. There are about 40 of the songs, some by featured artists like Johnny Cash and some by unknowns. John Luther “Casey” Jones was a railroader for the Illinois Central Railroad and was 8 Norwood St. Everett (617) 387-9810 Open Tues. - Sat. at 4:00 PM Closed Sun. & Mon. Announcing our Classic Specials Dine In Only: * FREE Salad with purchase of Entree, Tuesdays & Wednesdays * Cheese Pizza - Only $10 Catch ALL The Live Sports Action On Our Large Screen TV’s Scan & Follow Us on Facebook! REMEMBERING | FROM PAGE 3 www.810bargrille.com Everett Supplies Aluminum 10 Everett Ave., Everett 617-389-3839 Celebrating 66 Years in Business! •Vinyl Siding •Free Estimates •Carpentry Work •Fully Licensed •Decks •Roof ng • Fully Insured • Replacement Windows www.everettaluminum.com Now’s the time to schedule those home improvement projects you’ve been dreaming about all winter! new camp in a cattle car with other sick and wounded prisoners. “The new camp at Stalag XIII, located at Nurnberg, was a filthy, vermin ridden hole. In a report dated February 25, 1945, First Lt. Richard Brady stated the following about the conditions found at Stalag XIII, D. “The POW camps are within the railroad lines and are being bombed day and night. There are no slit trenches or shelters for POWS to use. They are kept in overcrowded barracks at gunpoint. “Inadequate food and clothing leading to starvation. Vegetables are full of worms, unhealthy and are contributing to the lowering of any resisREMEMBERING | SEE PAGE 6 Spring is Here! noted for his very punctual schedules. He often drove his trains under a degree of risk in speeds that might cause derailment. On the afternoon of April 29, 1900, he replaced the regular engineer, which left him without sleep. After his run, he took over his scheduled job as engineer on the train, which was a passenger service from Memphis to Canton, Mississippi, departing 75 minutes late because of the previous run. He ran the powerful 10-wheeler Engine number 382, which was named the “Cannonball.” As the train approached the town of Vaughan at a very high speed, he was not aware that the station had three trains occupying it. One of the trains had broken down and was in his path. There were claims that he ignored his flagman signaling as to trouble ahead, but this was never substantiated. There was a degree of fog, which contributed to the crash. He avoided a spectacular crash using his skill to slow down his train, as he could see that he was about to crash. His flagman was able to jump off the train upon noticing the problem and was unhurt. The passengers were also not strongly hurt, although some required treatment. But Casey was killed. His saving of the passengers while remaining to the end to slow the train led to the song “The Ballad of Casey Jones.” Jones was born in rural southeastern Missouri and the family later moved to Cayce, Kentucky; this earned him the name he chose, Casey. He started as a telegraph operator for the Mobile & Ohio Railroad and did his job very well; he was promoted to brakeman on the Columbus, Kentucky to Jackson, Tennessee line. Because of an outbreak of yellow fever epidemic in the summer of 1887, he was promoted to engineer. He became known as one of the best engineers on the line – known for his insistence that he “got her there on the adver“The Old Sachem,” Bill Stewart. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Joanie Allbee) tised time” – and it was known that people set their watches by Casey. He was also known in the area for rescuing a child from the tracks in Michigan City, Mississippi. Now you know more about the making of the song and of the heroic action of Casey Jones, who saved the lives of passengers while losing his own. (Editor’s Note: Bill Stewart, who is better known to Saugus Advocate readers as “The Old Sachem,” writes a weekly column – sometimes about sports. He also opines on current or historical events or famous people.)

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 Page 5 What’s Next at Town Meeting? The Town Moderator said he plans to take up warrant articles for the Annual Town Meeting next week By Mark E. Vogler · An appropriation of T own Moderator Stephen N. Doherty said that the Finance Committee has reviewed enough fi nancial articles on the Annual Town Meeting warrant to justify holding an annual session next week. Members will convene at 7:30 p.m. in the second fl oor auditorium at Saugus Town Hall The Finance Committee had made recommendations on 11 warrant articles that are ready to be considered by members. This includes four enrichment programing fund articles totaling $525,000 requested by Saugus Superintendent of Schools Michael Hashem. The Finance Committee has also recommended: $366,300 for the purpose of funding the operating budget of the PEG Access studio/facility in Saugus · An appropriation of $150,000 for the purpose of repairing and replacing town guardrails Doherty said in an interview this week that members would probably convene for their third Special Town Meeting, which is set for May 19 at 7:30 p.m. in the second fl oor auditorium at Town Hall. That entire meeting is expected to be devoted to consideration of a warrant article to amend the town’s Zoning Bylaws to add an MBTA Communities Multi-Family Overlay District (MCMOD). The Planning Board was expected to review that article at its May 15 meeting and off er its recommendation. At Monday’s session, Town Meeting members welcomed back longtime Finance Committee Chair Kenneth DePatto, who was unable to participate at last year’s Town Meeting sessions. “It feels really great being in front of you people again after a long absence,” DePatto told the audience. DePatto praised Finance Committee Vice Chair George DeDomenico, who stepped in for him while he was recuperating from surgery and cancer treatments. He also thanked Finance Committee Member Marc Magliozzi, who assisted DeDomenico during DePatto’s absence. Every warrant article with a fi nancial implication must be BACK ON THE JOB: Finance Committee Chair Kenneth DePatto attended his fi rst Town Meeting on Monday (May 5) since 2023 after missing all last year because of health issues. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) reviewed by the Finance Committee before it can be considered by the Annual Town Meeting. SABATINO/MASTROCOLA INSURANCE AGENCY 519 BROADWAY EVERETT, MA 02149 Auto * Home * Boat * Renter * Condo * Life * Multi-Policy Discounts * Commercial 10% Discounts * Registry Service Also Available Sabatino Insurance is proud to welcome the loyal customers of ALWAYS READY TO SERVE YOU: Our Staff are, Emma Davidson, Jeimy Sanchez, Josephine Leone, Marie D’Amore, Rocco Longo, Z’andre Lopez, Anthony DiPierro, Darius Goudreau, Laurette Murphy, Danielle Goudreau and Tina Davidson. PHONE: (617) 387-7466 FAX: (617) 381-9186 Visit us online at: WWW.SABATINO-INS.COM

Page 6 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 Honoring mothers today and every day. Happy Mother’s Day. By Joanie Allbee T he Saugus Public Library last Saturday (May 3) afternoon opened the Community Room doors to distant time travel. Lisa LeJune, Head of Reference Services, welcomed guests and verbally set the scene to match the creative time capsule scenery in the room. She told the audience that the year was 1890 and we were in France, outside a cafe. After that introduction, she quietly joined the guests. Screen Actors Guild member Ted Zalewski, as Postman Joseph Roulin, arrived through the doors carrying a letter. He then paused for refreshment and took a seat in the outdoor cafe. As he opened up a wine bottle and poured, out came his life pouring onto the cafe patrons, his audience. Roulin lets us peek into his own life as he warmly recalled memories of a man who has become his friend, Vincent van Gogh. Through Ted’s acute history research, Roulin’s listeners are pulled into the story of Vin100 Salem Turnpike, Saugus, MA 01906 WINWASTESAUGUS.COM A step back in time to meet Vincent van Gogh Visitors enjoy a one man play at the Saugus Public Library Jacki Kiddy posed with actor Ted Zalewski, who portrayed Joseph Roulin in the one man play presentation of Vincent van Gogh’s life. (Courtesy photo of Joanie Allbee) cent through his eyes. Ted convinced his audience that they were there with him listening to Roulin reminisce about all the talks, times and adventures of Vincent. Roulin took delight in how his wife cared for him and gave him baskets of food to ensure he had food on his journeys of delivering the mail. Roulin loved his wife and ofDonate Your Vehicle Call (866) 618-0011 to donate your car, truck, boat, RV, and more today! ■ Support Veteran Nonprofi ts. ■ Free Pickup & Towing. ■ Top Tax Deduction. Donate Your Vehicle Today 866-618-0011 www.veterancardonations.org/dnt122 While we appreciate every donation, in some cases, we fi nd that we are unable to accept certain vehicles, watercraft, and/or recreational vehicles due to the prohibitive costs of acquisition. If you have any questions, please give us a call at (866) 618-0011. Joyce Rodenhiser, who enjoyed the presentation of van Gogh’s life, posed with a few copies of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings. (Courtesy photo of Joanie Allbee) ten mentioned how beautiful she was. Ted, as the postman, painted a rich canvas full of Vincent’s life down to his idiosyncrasies. Ted, as Joseph Roulin, drew applause and new fans for his compelling one man play. His performance was a heartfelt portrayal of Vincent van Gogh, the famous artist. REMEMBERING | FROM PAGE 4 tance to disease. Permission is requested to distribute soup and food, and it was possible to have it served warm. Very Little clothing replacements as prisoners have only the clothing they wore from Sagan. “There is a lack of heat, bedding, and lighting. Four hundred and fi fty men must depend on two water outlets. Rats, mice, lice, fl eas and bedMIRROR IMAGES: Ted Zalewski, an actor from the Screen Actors Guild who portrayed Postman Joseph Roulin, dressed in the same uniform that Roulin would have worn. He posed next to Vincent van Gogh’s painting of his friend, the Postman Joseph Roulin. (Courtesy photo of Joanie Allbee) bugs throughout the camp with no disinfectants available. There is also a shortage of medical supplies, and garbage and debris disposal are inadequate. “In his final statement Lt. Brady wrote the following: It goes without saying Lt. Phillip McCullough’s present condition can only be laid to the fi lthy, starving conditions under which he lived for more than a year.” WRITER’S NOTE: Lt. McCullough was liberated at Stalag VII, Moosburg, Germany, on April 29, 1945. He returned to his hometown at the end of the war, opened a machine shop, which he had for many years, and passed away on November 11, 1978, at the age of 62. (Special thanks to Lt. McCullough’s niece Natalie [Dixon] Agreste and his late nephew Michael Moorehouse for their contributions to this article.)

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 Page 7 Saugus leaders of tomorrow Student Government Day is back after a fi ve-year absence A way to develop future town leaders Precinct 2 Town Meeting Member Peter A. Rossetti, Jr., who has spent about four decades as a Town Meeting member, was one of several town offi cials who encouraged the students to consider participating in town government when they become adults. “You guys are the future of our town. We’re going to be depending on you in the future,” Rossetti said. “Hopefully, someday you’ll be up here talking to students,” he said. Saugus Middle-High School LEADERS | SEE PAGE 9 If We Happen To Meet By Accident ... You’ll Be Glad You Found Us! A FUN DAY AT TOWN HALL: Sixth-grader Cole Gosselin (left) made the most of Student Government Day in Saugus. He got to dress like Saugus Public Schools Superintendent Michael Hashem and play the role of superintendent in a mock School Committee meeting. He also got to hang out with his stepdad, School Committee Member Thomas Whittredge (right). (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) By Mark E. Vogler T welve-year-old Cole Gosselin was the lone sixth-grader of 29 Middle and High School students who ranged from grades 6 through 11 in the recent Saugus Student Government Day. But he wound up with one of the best parts among the students who convened for about six hours in the second fl oor auditorium at Saugus Town Hall last week (May 1) for a program that featured a mock Selectmen’s meeting, a mock School Committee meeting and a mock Town Meeting session. “Mike [Schools Superintendent Michael Hashem] was awesome,” School Committee Member Thomas Whittredge said this week, as he recalled how his stepson benefited from a one-on-one education with the top administrator of Saugus Public Schools. “He showed Cole how to be well prepared for the meeting by asking questions and taking notes. He wanted to dress the part by wearing a sweater-vest that Mike has made a staple in his wardrobe,” Whittredge said. “He [Cole] was excited to hang with me all day,” he said. Ninth-grader Nicholas Shaw also got to play a star role during the mock School Committee meeting. He presided as chair of the School Committee, moderating the meeting and moving the agenda along while the real Saugus School Committee Chair – Vincent Serino – stood by his side, ready to provide guidance if needed. But Nicholas exuded great confidence, speaking clearly and effectively into the microphone. He impressed many of the local government leaders who attended the program. “I know what to do because I always watch the selectmen and School Committee meetings at home on television,” Nicholas said. “And I’d be interested in running for a Saugus board one day.” Seventh-grader Nicholas Kohr had a busy, but fulfi lling day, participating in the mock Selectmen’s meeting and the mock Town Meeting session as the town manager, while getting advice from the real Town Manager – Scott C. Crabtree. “I wanted the town manager’s job,” the 13-year-old said. “I thought it would be a good way to learn about the government of Saugus,” he said. There is a difference between the rest and the BEST! Celebrating 46 Years In Business! TONY’S AUTO BODY Call or Visit 781-321-0032 34 Sharon Street Malden, MA 02148 TONYSAUTOBODYLLC.COM COME VISIT OUR STATE OF THE ART BODY SHOP • Computerized Paint Matching (State of the Art Spray Booth) • Computerized Frame Machines • P.P.G. Refinishing System • R134 + 1234yf A/C Machines Fully Insured -RS2415 Insurance Company Approval ALL OUR WORK IS GUARANTEED! TONY BARTOLO Owner 46 Years Let Us Handle Your Next Insurance Claim. Go With the BEST It Doesn’t Get BETTER! RENTAL CARS Available

Page 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 By Dom Nicastro FERRARO, BRANDENBURG SHINE IN TRACK; BASEBALL, TENNIS FACE TOUGH OUTINGS Saugus High School’s Spring athletes continued competition across the North Shore last week, with standout individual eff orts in boys and girls track, tennis team contributions in the co-op program and a full slate of baseball action. SAUGUS BOYS TRACK BATTLES TOUGH COMPETITION The Saugus boys track and fi eld team competed in dual meets against Beverly and Swampscott, followed by the Northeastern Conference Freshman/ Sophomore Meet in Gloucester. Against Beverly, the Sachems fell 12115. Paxton Ferraro placed third in both the shotput and discus. Jacob Hunt and Pharoah Brandenburg placed second and third, respectively, in the javelin. ~ SHS Sachems Spring Sports roundup ~ Justin Bremberg earned a fi rst-place fi nish in the 400-meter hurdles, while Kalaeb Mathieu took second in the 200-meter dash. Gabe DeSouza finished third in the 400 meters. In a 109-26 loss to Swampscott, Ferraro took fi rst in the discus and third in the 110-meter hurdles. Hunt and Brandenburg fi nished 1-2 in the javelin, while Bremberg once again took fi rst in the 400-meter hurdles. Mathieu took second in both the 100-meter and 200-meter dashes, with DeSouza placing third in the 400. At the NEC Freshman/Sophomore Meet: Brandenburg finished third in the 400-meter hurdles and fi fth in the javelin Hunt placed second in the javelin Ferraro was sixth in both the discus and shot put GIRLS TRACK EARNS WINS, NATIONALS QUALIFIER IN GLOUCESTER The Saugus girls track and fi eld team also made a strong showing at the NEC Freshman/Sophomore Meet in Gloucester. Destiny Okoye led the team with a fi rst-place fi nish in the high jump and placed sixth in both the 100-meter and 200-meter dashes. Soraya Mathieu had a breakout meet, placing third in the 100 meters, second in the 200 meters and second in the long jump — qualifying for the Freshman Nationals in both the 100 and 200. SAUGUS CO-OP TENNIS DROPS MATCH TO GREATER LOWELL The Northeast Metro Tech boys tennis team — which includes several Saugus players — lost 6-1 to Greater Lowell at Belmonte Courts. Mathew Cipriano, a senior from Wakefi eld, earned the team’s lone win at fi rst singles with an 8-1 victory, improving to 4-0 on the season. Jeff Trinh, a junior from Saugus, played second singles and narrowly lost 10-8. Eighth grader Grant Leonard of Saugus fought hard at third singles but fell, 8-0. In doubles, Rayan Mrabbi and Ryan Dupuy, both from Saugus, teamed up at second doubles but lost 8-0 BASEBALL DROPS TWO STRAIGHT, PREPARES FOR GLOUCESTER SHOWDOWN Saugus baseball dropped a pair of contests this past week, falling to Lynn Classical 11-4 and to Beverly 8-0. Against Classical, senior Cam Bernard took the loss after throwing 4.2 innings with three strikeouts and two earned runs. Cam Soroko pitched one inning in relief, allowing fi ve earned runs and striking out two. Danny Zeitz fi nished the game with 1.1 innings, two earned runs and two strikeouts. Zeitz also led the off ense with a threerun homer. Nathan Soroko added a double and a single, Brayden Crawford hit a double, and Soroko also reached base with a single and a walk. In the loss to Beverly, junior Jordan Rodriguez pitched 3.2 innings, giving up four hits and six runs while striking out three. Zeitz and Connor Bloom came in as relievers for the Sachems. Saugus was set to host Gloucester Wednesday, May 7, at World Series Park. Saugus softball battles through three-game stretch, eyes tournament push By Dom Nicastro S augus High School’s softball team faced a challenging three-game slate in the past week, going 1-2 and bringing its overall record to 4-6 (2-6 in the Northeastern Conference). The Sachems were ranked No. 51 in the MIAA’s Division 3 power rankings as of May 6, with head coach Steve Almquist emphasizing the importance of staying in the tournament hunt. The past week opened with a 13-6 loss at home to Beverly, a game marked by early defenLawn and Yard CareUSA It’s Time For SPRING CLEANOUTS Cutting, Weeding, Mulching, Trimming, Brushes, Shrubs & More! 781-521-9927 sive struggles that put Saugus in a deep hole. Beverly capitalized on a string of errors to build a 7-0 lead after two innings. Saugus cut into the defi - cit with a three-run home run by freshman Alannah Duong in the third, but Beverly answered with four more runs in the fourth. Duong added a three-run triple in the seventh, fi nishing the day 3-for-4 with fi ve RBI, but the comeback eff ort fell short. Senior captain Lily Ventre went 2-for-4 with a double and two runs scored. Taylor Deleidi and Sofi a McCarrier split time in the circle but were undone by shaky defense behind them. “Both Deleidi and McCarrier did their jobs but just didn’t get much support on this day,” Almquist said. The Sachems responded with a strong 7-3 win on the road against Winthrop. Sophomore Ari Chianca sparked the off ense, reaching base fi ve times from the leadoff spot with two hits and three walks. Ventre drove in four runs on a pair of doubles, going 3-for-4, and Maria Silva added an RBI single. “We had runners on base every inning but just couldn’t get that timely hit to break the game open as we left 13 runners on base,” Almquist said. “However, it turns out that these were all the runs that Sofi a McCarrier would need.” McCarrier pitched a complete game, allowing three earned runs on seven hits with fi ve strikeouts. The week closed with an emotional 5-1 loss to Marblehead in the First Annual Todd Norman Memorial Game. The Marblehead assistant died suddenly at the beginning of last season. “We were so honored that Marblehead chose us to participate in this game and the day couldn’t have gone any better,” Almquist said. “It was such a fun time and a great way to honor Todd’s memory so it was only fi tting that Marblehead came away with the victory.” Saugus took a 1-0 lead in the third when Chianca doubled, and Ventre singled her home. Ventre remained unstoppable at the plate, going 3-for-3 and earning team MVP honors for the game. She entered the week hitting a blistering .844. But Marblehead broke through in the fi fth with three runs—two of them unearned due to Saugus infi eld errors— and tacked on two more in the sixth. Despite outhitting Marblehead 6-4, the Sachems left SOFTBALL | SEE PAGE 9 Call LAWNS Cut From $25

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 Page 9 Town Meeting 2025 Members complete two of three Special Town Meetings while approving appropriations totaling $16.6 million By Mark E. Vogler S augus Town Meeting members spent more than two hours Monday night completing two Special Town Meetings while approving 15 articles with appropriations totaling $16.6 million recommended by the Finance Committee. Forty-five of 50 members attended the session. Absent were Precinct 10 Town Meeting Member Martin Costello, Precinct 9 Town Meeting Member Daniel Kelly, Precinct 10 Town Meeting Member Darren Ring, Precinct 2 Town Meeting Member Peter Rossetti, Jr. and Precinct 3 Town Meeting Member Mark Sacco. Members voted in near-unanimous fashion, with Precinct 2 Town Meeting Member Matthew Parlante the only one to cast a vote opposing an appropriation. In the second Special Town Meeting, where members unanimously approved the Solid Waste, Trash and Recycling Modernization Bylaw, Parlante voted against the article to appropriate $1.5 million to support the bylaw should Saugus adopt an automated trash system. He complained that the article didn’t contain supporting documentation showing cost analysis. “We’re told we’re going to save money,” Parlante said. “Where’s the data?” During the first Special Town Meeting, members followed the recommendation of the Finance Committee in approving 13 of the 14 articles – the SOFTBALL | FROM PAGE 8 six runners stranded. “Senior Taylor Deleidi got the start in this one and pitched six tremendous innings keeping us within ear shot and giving us every opportunity to win it,” Almquist said. McCarrier came on in the seventh to close, allowing no runs and no hits. The Sachems entered another pivotal week this week with three games on the schedule: at home against Northeast Metro Tech and Gloucester, and on the road at Danvers. Almquist noted the importance of picking up at least one win to keep Saugus’s postseason hopes alive. study for a third fire station/ West Side Public Safety and EMS Response Facility (Please see related story.) · $450,000 for the purpose of funding the planning and design of capital improvements to the town’s water booster stations on Pine Tree Drive and Ocean View Avenue · $300,000 for the purpose of repairing or replacing town water hydrants and valves · $300,000 for the purpose of funding the preparation of a new update to the town’s existTHIS YEAR’S TOWN MEETING IS UNDERWAY: Members acknowledge their presence at the beginning of Monday night’s meeting. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) biggest appropriation being $4 million for designing, constructing, repairing and replacing parks and playgrounds in town. “Golden Hills, Stackpole and Stocker – those are the playgrounds we’re looking to upgrade,” Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree told Town Meeting members. “We’re looking to get these projects done this year – the design and construction,” he said. “I’m glad to be up here arguing for more money for the playgrounds,” he said. The town manager also noted that the town has lights and cameras to help police patrols and to protect the taxpayers’ investment in the playgrounds. Town Meeting members also approved: · $2,650,000 for public safety radio infrastructure upgrades · $1,871,000 at 0 percent interest to be borrowed by selectmen from the MWRA Local Water System Assistance Program for the purpose of designing and constructing improvements to water pipelines · $1,290,000 for the purpose of purchasing various equipment for town departments; this includes a new van for the Youth and Recreation Department. · $1,000,000 to be transferred to the Stabilization Fund; the town manager says the town currently has $12.4 million in its Stabilization Fund. · $1,000,000 to be transferred to the Other Post-Employment Benefits Trust (OPEB Trust); the town currently has $6.6 million in the OPEB Trust. · $1,000,000 to be transferred to the Stabilization Fund for the Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School Construction Project; the town currently has $2 million in the Voke School construction Stabilization Fund. · $825,000 for the feasibility LEADERS | FROM PAGE 7 Principal Carla Scuzzarella, who also serves as a Precinct 10 Town Meeting Member, said she was glad to see Student Government Day revived after a five-year absence. “It’s so important to understand how the town operates, and you can work for us someday,” Scuzzarella said. “This is a day for you to learn how to contribute to your community,” she said. Future participation in local government is indeed one of the main missions behind Saugus Student Government Day, according LEADERS | SEE PAGE 10 ing Water Distribution Report · $220,000 for the purpose of funding capital improvements to the town’s sewer system · $150,000 for the purpose of planning and design of capital improvements to townowned dams Town Meeting Members approved the Finance Committee’s recommendation to indefinitely postpone an article requesting funds for the planning, design and construction of capital improvements to town-owned bridges. THE PAESANI CLUB ANNUAL POLENTA PARTY ANTHONY’S OF MALDEN 105 CANAL STREET MALDEN, MA. 02148 THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2025 6:00PM COCKTAIL HOUR SAVE THE DATE LA MORA CONTEST FEATURING SAL “THE BUMBLE BEE SWALLOWER” BARRESI 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

Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 A room full of hydrangea art By Joanie Allbee A flurry of artists took their seats last week at the Saugus Public Library to paint a canvas of hydrangeas puffs. Those who signed up with the library for the hydrangea painting class on May 1 witnessed an explosion of creativity. Charismatic Instructor Lara Jardullo warmly greeted the class. She is one of the Instructors from the Pop Up Art School. The company was started by Janell Scannell and Lisa Walker. Their logo is “Your One Stop for Art Lessons.” Instructors travel all over to libraries, groups, COA Centers and team-building events to bring Pop Up art classes . Each of the Pop Up art classes offered includes all materials for each student. Artist Lara has more than 20 years teaching experience and enjoys her work. “These art classes are great because it makes art accessible to all members of the community,” Lara said. And she loves that “anyone can be part of the fun.” Lara’s sense of humor made learning fun in her class. “Each picture is going to be a little bit different because you all have your own unique vision,” she reminded students. As eager artists slapped paints on canvas, she walked around making herself available to any student struggling. Laura Eisener posed beside her hydrangea canvas acrylic painting. (Courtesy photo of Joanie Allbee) Lara told students she was proud of everyone’s efforts and took photos of each hydrangea painting to be able Law Offices of JOSEPH D. CATALDO, P.C. “ATTORNEYS AND COUNSELORS AT LAW” • ESTATE/MEDICAID PLANNING • WILLS/TRUSTS/ESTATES • INCOME TAX PREPARATION • WEALTH MANAGEMENT • RETIREMENT PLANNING • ELDER LAW 369 Broadway Everett, MA 02149 (617)381-9600 JOSEPH D. CATALDO, CPA, CFP, MST, ESQUIRE. AICPA Personal Financial Specialist Designee SAVE $350when you transform your patio into an outdoor oasis. Instant shade—at the touch of a button. Enjoy more quality time with family and friends. Up to 10-Year Limited Warranty. SAVE$350 TODAY! Call 1-833-626-0576 now to America’s #1 Awning! Barbara Labadini embraced her finished hydrangea canvas painting. (Courtesy photo of Joanie Allbee) to share with her team at the headquarters of the Pop Up Art School. As class ended, she encouraged artists to find places in homes to hang finished masterpieces. Lara Jardullo and any memLEADERS | FROM PAGE 9 to Patricia Prizio, the Student Government Advisor at Saugus Middle-High School. “Learning the process of town government is imperative to our Saugus students,” said Prizio, the veteran Saugus educator who organized the students who participated in this year’s program. “This experience will give them a sense of belonging to their community and help them grow as productive adults in society. Our students are the future of Saugus and may become our next elected town officials,” said Prizio, a former Saugus resident who served for 16 years as a Precinct 7 Town Meeting member before moving to Georgetown. “What better way to expose our students to the processes of town government,” she said. Manoogian proposes student civic club Prizio will be retiring this year, completing a 23-year career as an educator in Saugus Public Schools. She is currently a seventh-grade math teacher in the Middle School. But town officials are optimistic that another educator will step up to build on the progress made this year. “If you want to have a civic Pop Art Instructor Lara Jardullo held up the hydrangea painting she taught the class to paint. Each of the students got to take home their 9x12 canvas painted hydrangea done in acrylics. (Courtesy photo of Joanie Allbee) bers of the Team are offering a multitude of art projects. They can be reached at Popupartschool.com. (They also created an “Art-to-go” kit for ordering on their website.) club, I’d be glad to work with you,” Precinct 10 Town Meeting Member Peter Manoogian told the students during a question and debriefing session. “I’m so proud of all of you and I hope you carry it through to next year. It’s something you need to keep going,” he said. In an interview later, Manoogian said the overall performance of the students motivated him to make an offer to help interested students organize a civic club. Students from any grade level could participate in the civic club, according to Manoogian. “It would be based on a book I used when I taught American Government – ‘Civics For Democracy,’” Manoogian said. “Students would also engage in listening to others and be open to changing their point of view. Those are habits of mind that are easily imparted on young people,” he said. “Yes. I’d volunteer. The school would have to coordinate, organize, etc. Of course the union would have to agree to allowing a volunteer to work with students without compensation. But I don’t think they’d have a problem. I’ll leave it up to the school officials as to how best to get it off the ground.”

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 Page 11 Student Government Day in Saugus T wenty-nine Saugus Middle and High Schools students from grades 6 through 11 participated for nearly six hours in Saugus Town Hall last week (May 1), drawing a special audience from some of the best and brightest minds of Saugus local government in the first student Government Day since 2019. The students, broken up into the three elective bodies of Saugus municipal government, held mock meetings for the Board of Selectmen, the School Committee and the Annual Town Meeting. Joining them during the time of the program were the entire Board of Selectmen, two School Committee members and about a dozen Town Meeting members. The town manager, the school superintendent, the town moderator, the Board of Selectmen Chair and the School Committee Chair were all there for the duration of the program. At the outset of the program, the Town Clerk briefed students about the role and duties of the Town Clerk’s Office. There were agendas crafted for the Selectmen and School Committee Meetings and a warrant for the Town Meeting. The students were Garden encouraged to ask questions before and after each of the mock meetings. Student Government Advisor Patricia Prizio, who spent 16 years as a Town Meeting member representing residents of Saugus Precinct 7, organized the program. She received a citation from the student Board of Selectmen as their final order of business. Lunch was provided by the Saugus Business Education Collaborative and Kowloon Restaurant. (Saugus Advocate photos by Mark E. Vogler) GOVERNMENT DAY | SEE PAGE 12 Club Notes The Saugus Garden Club will host its annual fundraiser next Wednesday at Saugus Town Hall By Laura Eisener M aster flower show judge Kathy Leva will present ideas GETTING A BRIEFING: Board of Selectmen Chair Debra Panetta briefed the students before their mock Board of Selectmen’s meeting. TOWN MEETING MENTORING: Town Moderator Stephen N. Doherty offered some advice for students before their mock Town Meeting. TOWN HALL ADVICE: Saugus Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree devoted much of his Thursday morning to helping seventh-grader Nicholas Kohr learn the mechanics of briefing selectmen. COACHING THE CHAIR: Board of Selectmen Chair Debra Panetta gave some pointers to Bianca Flores on how to preside over her mock selectmen’s meeting. MODERATOR TO MODERATOR: Town Moderator Stephen N. Doherty let eighth-grader Briella Aguero try out his gavel before the opening of the students’ mock Town Meeting. A FUTURE SAUGUS LEADER: Ninth-grader Nicholas Shaw conducted business at his mock School Committee Meeting while the real School Committee Chair, Vincent Serino, stood by to offer guidance. for flower arranging at the Saugus Garden Club’s Annual Fund Raiser, set for 6 p.m. next Wednesday (May 14), in the second floor auditorium at Saugus Town Hall. Kathy is the current president of the Lexington Field & Garden Club, the oldest garden club in the United States. She has long been active in horticultural activities, having participated in the Boston Flower Show, Newport Rhode Island Flower Show and flower shows in Topsfield and Marshfield and at Tower Hill Botanic Garden. There will be a great selection of raffle baskets and light refreshments will be served. On April 16, the Saugus Garden Club had its annual spring luncheon at the Visitor’s Center at Breakheart Reservation. Joyce Venetsanakos was awarded a National Garden Clubs, Inc. Plant-a-Tree Certificate from the Saugus Garden Club for her work in the club, which went well beyond expectations. Other plans for spring include the Saugus Garden Club Plant Sale, which will be June 21 in conjunction with the Saugus Historical Society Strawberry Festival. A FRIENDLY CHAT: Tenth-grader Anigaelle Jean Baptiste receives one-on-one tutoring from Board of Selectmen Vice Chair Jeffrey Cicolini. Joyce Venetsanakos received a Plant-a-Tree Certificate from the Saugus Garden Club at their spring luncheon last month. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener)

Page 12 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 Student Government Day in Saugus GOVERNMENT DAY | FROM PAGE 11 THE MOCK SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING: From left to right: Schools Superintendent Michael Hashem, students Isabella Vasi, Zahra Ghaouta and Cole Gosselin, School Committee Member Thomas Whittredge, School Committee Chair Vincent Serino and students Haley Eliuk, Shejla Shahu and Nicholas Shaw. THE MOCK BOARD OF SELECTMEN’S MEETING: Pictured from left to right: Front row: Zenera Shahu, Selectman Corinne Riley, students Justin Vo and Nicholas Kohr, Board of Selectmen Chair Debra Panetta, students Bianca Flores and Anigaelle Jean Baptiste, Selectman Jeff Cicolini, Student Government Advisor Patricia Prizio, student Mia Tirone and Selectman Anthony Cogliano; back row: Selectman Michael Serino and Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree. THE MOCK TOWN MEETING: Pictured from left to right: Front row: Precinct 6 Town Meeting Member Jeanie Bartolo, students Angelina Chim, Eva Nguyen, Sunny Brammer, Charlotte Reinheimer, Adelaide Picardi, Javier Haro and Nicholas Kohr and Student Government Advisor Patricia Prizio; second row: students Summer Selvage, Mikayla Barbosa, Gabriele Pereira Pousas Ganda, Michael MacCuish, Mohammed Raji, Gavin Diozzi, Briella Aguero, Sophia Dinarello, Avalynn Giacobbe, Lani Rais and Anthony Sullivan and Precinct 10 Town Meeting Member Peter Manoogian; back row: Precinct 2 Town Meeting Member Jeannie Meredith, Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree, Town Moderator Stephen N. Doherty, Precinct 4 Town Meeting Member Maureen Whitcomb, Precinct 2 Town Meeting Member Peter A. Rossetti, Jr. and Precinct 5 Town Meeting Member Mark Panetta. A TOWN HALL GATHERING: The 29 Middle and High School students participating in Patricia Prizio’s Saugus Student Government Day Program joined their local government mentors on the steps of Saugus Town Hall on Thursday, May 1. A SPRINGTIME GREETING: Students arriving for the Student Government Day passed by rows of colorful tulips decorating the PFC Richard D. Devine Jr. Memorial; he was one of three soldiers from Saugus killed in the Vietnam War.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 Page 13 The Sounds of Saugus By Mark E. Vogler Good morning, Saugus Next Wednesday (May 14) is going to be a rare day of conflicting interests for Saugonians who have close ties to the Saugus Garden Club and the Saugus Historical Society. At 6 p.m. that day, the Saugus Garden Club will hold its Annual Fundraiser in the second floor auditorium at Saugus Town Hall. Master flower show judge Kathy Leva will be this year’s speaker. She will present ideas for flower arranging. Meanwhile, at 7 p.m. in its offices at 30 Main St., the Saugus Historical Society will present a program about the history of horticulture in Saugus as well as continuing to update some of its recent topics about significant historical anniversaries that are being observed this spring and summer. “Since it finally feels like spring, what better time to look back on the famous greenhouses at Sim’s Carnations and other horticultural businesses that started in Saugus,” the Society’s president, Laura Eisener, wrote in an email this week. “Nunan’s had its start on Lincoln Avenue in Saugus in 1917 but moved to its ‘new’ location in Georgetown in 1957 where it has grown to include a miniature golf course and restaurant. Our current horticultural businesses Little Brook Garden Center and Huberman’s also have been an important part of spring in Saugus.” Laura notes that the program is open and free to the general public and that light refreshments will be served. If you are a member of both organizations or an avid fan of flowers and local history, you could walk back and forth between Town Hall and the Saugus Historical Society a few times that night. People planning to go to the Historical Society Meeting could spend just under an hour at Town Hall and then hurry over to 30 Main St. But it’s more likely that people will pick one or the other events to attend on Wednescontinues to serve as an inspiration for many since suffering a crippling spinal cord injury while playing hockey for Saugus High School 38 years ago. Jon offered the following remarks in a GoFundMe page he set up for his friend at https://www.gofundme. com/f/michaels-medicalfund-a-call-for-kindness “On January 17, 1987, Michael Maruzzi suffered a devastating and life-altering spinal cord injury while playing varsity ice hockey for Saugus High School (Massachusetts). “If you are fortunate to The greenhouses at The William Sim Carnation Co., Inc. in East Saugus were world-famous. (Photo courtesy of Saugus Historical Society) day night. A Blood Drive in Saugus on Sunday Tiger Institute Tae Kwon Do at 375 Central St. will host a blood drive from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday (May 11) for the American Red Cross. Those who come to give blood will receive a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. All who come to give in May will be automatically entered for a chance to win a U.S. trip of their choice for two. Full details can be found at RedCrossBlood.org/May. Type O blood donors and donors giving platelets are especially needed right now: • Type O negative is the universal blood type and can be transfused to any person, no matter their blood type. This makes it essential in the most dire situations. • Type O positive blood is the most used blood type because it can be transfused to Rh-positive patients of any blood type. Gas main work set for Monday The Saugus Department of Public Works announced that National Grid is scheduled to begin gas main work on Monday (May 5), between 479 and 481 Walnut St. For this project, National Grid crews will relay 50 feet of gas main on the eastbound lane of Walnut Street at 479-481 Walnut St. near the Lynn/Saugus line. Work will occur between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. on the designated work days and is expected to take five days to complete. Police details will be used and traffic detours will be established if necessary. Please call Town Engineer Kevin Hallion at 781-2314032 with any questions. Saugus-Everett Elks to hold scams presentation The Saugus-Everett Elks Drug Awareness committee and Eagle Bank are teaming up to hold a scams, cyber fraud and exploitation presentation to be held at the Saugus Senior Center (466 Central St. in Saugus) on Monday, May 12, at 10 a.m. This free hour-long presentation will be conducted by Attorney Stephen Miliotis and Senior Banking Officer Gisella DiPaola. Don’t miss out on this event, and become educated on the latest scams that are currently spreading across our country. Learn the different kinds of scams, including blackmail scams, charity scams, debt collection scams, senior scams, debt relief scams and much more. Light refreshments will be served. Call the Senior Center at 781-231-4178 to reserve your seat. Walk-ins are also welcome. This week’s “SHOUT OUTs” We received a couple of “Shout Outs” this week from our readers: Mary Lou Graham offered a “Shout Out” for the Saugus United Parish Food Pantry under the direction of Pastor Joe Hoyle of Cliftondale Congregational Church: “A sincere thank you to the volunteers and high school students who pack provisions and carry the boxes out to wherever the client needs them. The faithful donations of groceries, produce, funds and other needed provisions are extremely welcomed. Thank you for them. We appreciate the churches, businesses, all associations and the individuals who are so faithful in remembering our pantry. We couldn’t carry on without your support. God bless you all.” Jon Bernard sent in a “Shout Out” for Michael Maruzzi, a Saugonian and former Saugus High School teacher who know Michael, you no doubt have tremendous respect for his strength, perseverance, and inspiration. “In the years shortly following Michael’s injury, he attended and graduated from Boston University whereupon he returned to Saugus High School to teach mathematics, retiring in 2015. But Michael was then–and remains today–much more than a math teacher. He cared deeply for his students as people and provided them with a tender ear and counseled many of them through the challenges that they confronted as high school students and, for many, in their years beyond high school. “As time has passed, Michael’s medical needs and care have increased and, consequently, so too have the associated financial costs. Your assistance is needed! “Michael and his wife Arlene have lived in Florida for the last several years and largely rely upon each other, with aid from family and friends, to assist them with their daily lives. If you have been touched by Michael’s generous spirit and genuine goodness, please consider donating what you can to support Michael and Arlene as they confront the daily challenges of their life together. “Thank you, and please share this message with those whom you know would like to extend love and support to Michael and Arlene.” THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 15

Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable Page 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 Saugus Gardens in the Spring By Laura Eisener D espite the cloudy and often rainy weather we had most of this week, many flowers are exploding with color now to brighten our days. The cooler temperatures help to prolong the bloom. The early magnolias and cherries, which bloom before their leaves emerge, have lost most of their blossoms, but there is one late blooming cherry that flowers when its foliage is almost full size. That is the ‘Kwanzan’ cherry (Prunus serrulata ‘Kwanzan’), a very popular multi-petalled pink variety, which is blooming in every neighborhood now. At lunch last Sunday, I looked out a window and saw a pink blizzard as wind gusts blew petals off an adjacent cherry beside the building. Petals swirled everyA short-cupped daffodil, often called a jonquil, blooms in a Lynnhurst garden. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) where and created petal puddles at the edges of the flower bed, similar to the picture above of a ‘Kwanzan’ cherry on Route 1. In addition to the profuse pink petals, the emerging leaves have an intriguing bronze color, although they will be green a few weeks from now. In fall they become bright yellow and orange. We also have many pink and white crabapple varieties in bloom all over town. People often ask how to tell the ‘Kwanzan’ cherries from the similarly pink varieties of crabapple. They are both in the rose family so there are certainly quite a few similarities, but the ‘Kwanzan’ cherries have many petals in the same blossom. Among the most loved flowThis wallflower has an unusual combination of apricot and eggplant flower colors. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) ers of spring is the fragrant common lilac (Syringa vulgaris). Usually it is a light purple, but there are other colors, usually developed in the 19th century by French propagators who crossed them with other lilac species while maintaining the usual common lilac height, form and fragrance. Some of these may have blossoms with multiple petals. Dark purple, light purple and pinkish flower colors are also among these plants – often known as French hybrid lilacs. One of the darkest purples available is ‘Old Glory’ (Syringa vulgaris ‘Old Glory’). In the 18th and 19th centuries, it was considered good luck to plant lilacs at the corners of new homes, and it is still possible to find very old lilacs planted near old homes. Most lilacs have four petals per flower. Another popular, old-fashioned plant is the showy bleeding heart (now Lamprocapnos spectabilis, but often still labeled Dicentra spectabilis) – sometimes called Asian bleeding heart. It is very dramatic in the spring garden, with its arching stems of heart shaped blossoms in May and June, although when temperatures warm up in July the entire plant becomes dormant. First time growers often assume it It’s a symphony in pink as this ‘Kwanzan’ cherry blooms near a deep pink door on Route 1 in North Saugus. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) is dead, but it will almost certainly return for many years to come. It was extremely popular in Victorian times and appears on many old-fashioned valentines. Other bleeding heart varieties – including our native Eastern bleeding heart (Dicentra eximia), also called fringed bleeding heart – have much smaller flowers but continue blooming beyond spring through the summer, which is worth considering when deciding which to plant. The wallflower (Erysimum A dark purple variety of common lilac is flowering in Lynnhurst. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) A white variety of showy bleeding heart blooms in the garden at St. John’s Church on Prospect Street. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) spp.) is another flower with four petals, although unrelated to lilacs. This member of the cabbage family (Brassicaceae) is a spring to early summer blooming perennial that thrives in shallow soil, such as rock gardens, and even in crevices between stones in a wall. Crumbled mortar is just fine for the roots of this plant, and it joins rock phlox (Phlox subulata), basket of gold (Aurinia saxatilis) and rock cress (Arabis caucasica) as a good choice for exposed ledges and boulders. Flowers colors vary widely, as there are several species in this genus. One of several new varieties, ‘Erysistible Bronze Rose’ has flowers that appear pale orange when they open up but change to purple as they go by; it is a good choice because of its long bloom and varied flower shades in the same plant, and it is not generally viewed as a food by rabbits. Daffodils and tulips are still going strong. Many of the later blooming daffodils (Narcissus spp.) are short-cupped ones often referred to as jonquils. All jonquils are daffodils, but only a group of hybrids with short cups (also known as coronas), often stronger fragrance, and a tolerance for warmer winter temperatures are properly referred to as jonquils. Like other daffodils, the corona can be the same or different colors than the perianth or corolla. Editor’s Note: Laura Eisener is a landscape design consultant who helps homeowners with landscape design, plant selection and placement of trees and shrubs, as well as perennials. She is a member of the Saugus Garden Club and offered to write a series of articles about “what’s blooming in town” shortly after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. She was inspired after seeing so many people taking up walking.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 Page 15 SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 13 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. Saugus United Parish Food Pantry The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry welcomes all neighbors facing food insecurity on Fridays from 9:3011 a.m. at 50 Essex St. in the basement of Cliftondale Congregational Church. Legion Breakfasts today The American Legion Post 210 at 44 Taylor St. in Saugus has resumed the 202425 breakfast season and will continue until the final breakfast on Friday, May 30. Doors open at 7:30 a.m., with breakfast served from 8-9:00 a.m. for an $8 donation. Veterans who cannot afford the donation may be served free. Participate in Memorial Day plans Plans are already in the works for this year’s annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony, which is set for Saturday, May 24. Contact the Saugus Veterans Council if you would like to help out. Council Commander Steve Castinetti can be reached at 781-389-3678 or stevecastinetti@comcast.net What’s going on at the library Sheryl Fae at library tomorrow! Actress Sheryl Fae is returning to the Saugus Public Library, this time as Abigail Adams. Fae’s performance is set for tomorrow (Saturday, May 10) at 2 p.m. in the Community Room at the Saugus Public Library (295 Central St.). Abigail Adams’ life is one of the most documented of the first ladies: She is remembered for the many letters she ARBOR DAY ARTISTS: Victoria Peng, 9, and her brother Ian, 6, both students at Melrose Montessori School, made tree crafts during a recent Arbor Day craft project organized by Joyce Rodenhiser at the Saugus Public Library. (Courtesy photo of Amy Melton of The Saugus Public Library) wrote to her husband while he stayed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, during the Continental Congresses. John frequently sought the advice of Abigail on many matters, and their letters are filled with intellectual discussions on government and politics. In one of her more famous letters, she implores her husband and his colleagues, all of whom were male, to “…remember the ladies…If particular care and attention is not paid to the Ladies we are determined to foment a Rebellion, and will not hold ourselves bound by any Laws in which we have no voice, or Representation.” Her letters also serve as eyewitness accounts of the American Revolutionary War home front. This story starts off with her as an adult and goes back through her childhood and then back to an adult again. This show is suitable for ages 12 through adults. Music & Sound design by Scooter Perrotta from LA Soundtrack. Sheryl Faye attended Emerson College in Boston, graduating with honors and received a BFA in Acting. Since 2003, she has masterfully brought to life important historical women to both adults and children around the world. In her one-woman shows, she immerses the audience in a multimedia learning experience that captivates viewers and sparks their interest to explore more. Registration is required for the program. Register at https://sauguspubliclibrary. org/events. Abigail Adams – America’s First, Second Lady is sponsored by the New Friends of the Saugus Public Library. Dungeons and Dragons: Join us for a Dungeons and Dragons game that will be facilitated by a professional Dungeon Master. We will be playing on May 19 at 4:00 in the Brooks Room. Fifth grade and up – registration required. Teen Creative Writing: Please join us on May 12 at 4:00 in the Brooks Room for a teen creative writing program! You can work on any creative writing project, such as a story, novel or poem. No registration required – fifth grade and up. Call Rachel at 781-231-4168 for more details or contact her at rhuntington@noblenet.org SAVE Composting Workshop: On May 20, Saugus Action Volunteers for the Environment (SAVE) and Eastern Bank are cosponsoring a workshop on backyard composting at the Saugus Public Library from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. The program – presented by the Massachusetts Master Gardeners Association (MMGA) – is free, but registration is required, either via the library’s website or by calling 781-231-4168. Register today and join SAVE members in learning how to reduce kitchen and household waste through composting. A Writing Workshop: Laura Eisener’s “Pen to Paper” Writing Workshop is set for May 20 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Brooks Room at the Saugus Public Library. Saugus Sachems Summer Track Camp 2025 Coach Christopher Tarantino – also known affectionately as “Coach T” – has announced plans for his Summer Track Camp. Registration will get underway soon. “This vibrant program, now in its 20th year, is where student athletes from a wide range of ages come together to listen well, work hard, and have fun!” Coach T said in an email this week. Track Camp runners will be guided by Coach Tarantino, his coaches, counselors and alumni, as well as current middle and high school track team members. “Participants work on social and team building skills, as well as setting individual and team goals, all while learning the fundamentals and or the advanced techniques of this dynamic sport, track and field,” Coach T said. Here’s a summary of what interested kids and their parents need to know. Who: five to 18 years old. Where: Belmonte Track. When: 6-8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. June 23-27 – final registration week/returning athlete training June 30-July 4 – first formal week July 19 – Summer Showdown in Cranston, R.I. July 23 – Wrap up Cost: $300 first year ($250 if registered by June 1), $200 returning with uniform, $150 if three years or more in summer program; includes pasta dinner, t-shirt, uniform and entry into Summer Showdown. For any questions, further information or to register, please contact Coach Christopher Tarantino (Coach T) at 781-854-6778 or christophertarantino24@gmail.com Buy-A-Brick for a 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 someone from your family, school, etc., the general pricing is $100 for a 4” x 8” brick (three lines) or $200 for a 8” x 8” brick (five lines). Each line has 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 September 10 to ensure the bricks will be ready for Veterans Day. Please contact Corinne Riley at 781-2317995 for more information and applications. C.H.a.R.M. Center is open The Town of Saugus Solid Waste/Recycling Department announced that the Center for Hard to Recycle Materials (C.H.a.R.M.) has opened for the season, with normal operational hours of Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The C.H.a.R.M. Center is located at 515 Main St., Saugus, behind the Saugus Department of Public Works. Residents are welcome to THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 16

Page 16 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 15 use the C.H.a.R.M. Center for their recycling needs. Saugus was the first municipality in Massachusetts to open a C.H.a.R.M. Center. The C.H.a.R.M. Center accepts the following items at no cost to residents: • Bottles and cans • Paper and cardboard • Scrap metal • Shoes, clothes and other textiles • Fluorescent light bulbs and batteries (button and rechargeable) Residents are also permitted the free disposal of three TVs or computers/CRT monitors per household each year at the C.H.a.R.M. Center. Residents can obtain new stickers for this year free of charge when visiting the C.H.a.R.M. Center. By purchasing a $25 sticker that is valid for the entirety of the season, residents will be permitted to dispose of yard waste and brush at the C.H.a.R.M. Center. The $25 sticker also covers the cost to dispose of hard/rigid plastics at the facility. The C.H.a.R.M. Center accepts CHECKS ONLY, no cash or cards. Please note that the C.H.a.R.M. Center does not accept any household trash or construction materials and debris. The Town of Saugus reserves the right to refuse any material if quantity or quality is questionable. Go to https://www.saugus-ma.gov/ solid-waste-recycling-department and click on “Recycling Guide” for a comprehensive list of items that are accepted or not accepted at the C.H.a.R.M. Center, in addition to guidelines for how to prepare different items for disposal at the facility. The C.H.a.R.M. Center will remain open on Wednesdays and Saturdays through the season until the winter. Please contact Solid Waste/ Recycling Coordinator Scott A. Brazis at 781-231-4036 with any questions. Saugus High Class of 1980 Attention, Saugus High Class of 1980. Mark your calendars for Nov. 29 (Saturday after Thanksgiving) and reach out to your friends that you’d like to see there for the 45th Class Reunion for 1980 graduates and friends. The reunion will be held that day from 1 to 6 p.m. inside the Saugus Elks. Invite Saugus High friends from other classes that you may want to be at our 1980 Class Reunion. Our last Saugus Class BBQ event a couple of years ago had three sisters from three different classes attend and they had a blast J& • Reliable Mowing Service • Spring & Fall Cleanups • Mulch & Edging • Sod or Seed Lawns • Shrub Planting & Trimming • Water & Sewer Repairs Joe Pierotti, Jr. A ONE-WOMAN SHOW: Sheryl Faye returns to the Saugus Public Library tomorrow (Saturday, May 10) at 2 p.m. to play the part of Abigail Adams, one of America’s most beloved and influential first ladies. The performance will be 45 minutes long and is recommended for ages 12 to adult. Registration is required. Register at sauguspubliclibrary.org/events. – so many loved seeing them and appreciated them being S LANDSCAPE & MASONRY CO. Masonry - Asphalt • Brick or Block Steps • Brick or Block Walls • Concrete or Brick Paver Patios & Walkways • Brick Re-Pointing • Asphalt Paving www.JandSlandscape-masonry.com • Senior Discount • Free Estimates • Licensed & Insured 617-389-1490 Designing and Constructing Ideas that are “Grounds for Success” Landscaping there. So many old friends reconnecting after decades; friends from overseas and across the country came; Saugus Classmates that left in Jr. High and that went to other High Schools came. How special it was for so many people to see each other after over 40 years. Reach out to your friends that are not on Facebook to give them some early notice in case they may want to attend and need to make travel plans. Some of our Classmates have kept in touch with some of our High School teachers, and they attended our last two Saugus High Reunion events – we hope they’ll join us again. Feel free to reach out to any of your favorite teachers that you may want there – I’m sure they would love to hear from you. More information is forthcoming. Any questions, please feel free to reach out to Andrea or Pete: Andrea Saunders (1980 Class President) can be reached at paulgreens@aol. com or 978-482-5787. Pete Nicolo can be reached PSNicolo2533@comcast.net or 978-815-8234 About The Saugus Advocate We welcome press releases, news announcements, freelance articles and courtesy photos from the community. Our deadline is 6 p.m. on Tuesday. If you have a story idea, an article or a photo to submit, please email me at mvoge@comcast.net or leave a message at 978-683-7773. Or send your press release to me in the mail at PO Box 485, North Andover, MA 01845. Let us become your hometown newspaper. The Saugus Advocate is available in the Saugus Public Library, the Saugus Senior Center, Saugus Town Hall, local convenience stores and restaurants throughout town.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 Page 17 situation, and there is a multitude of reasons I could not support it,” said Rep. Ken Sweezey (R-Hanson). If you have any questions about this week’s report, e-mail us at bob@beaconhillrollcall.com or call us at (617) 720-1562. Beacon Hill Roll Call Volume 50 -Report No. 18 April 28-May 2, 2025 Copyright © 2025 Beacon Hill Roll Call. All Rights Reserved. By Bob Katzen G ET A FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO MASSTERLIST – Join more than 30,000 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. MASSterList will be e-mailed to you FREE every Monday through Saturday 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 THE HOUSE AND SENATE: Beacon Hill Roll Call records local representatives’ votes on roll calls from the week of April 28-May 2. There were no roll calls in the Senate last week. All roll calls in the House were on matters relating to House passage of a $61.47 billion fi scal 2026 state budget. A LOOK BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE “MAKING OF THE BUDGET” Most of the decisions on which representatives’ amendments are included or not included in the budget are made behind closed doors. Of the more than 1,650 budget amendments proposed last week, most of them were bundled into consolidated “mega” amendments. This year there were seven mega amendments and all were easily approved on roll call votes. The system works as follows: Individual representatives file amendments on various topics. All members then pitch their amendments to Democratic leaders who draft consolidated amendments that include some of the individual representatives’ amendments while excluding others. The categories of consolidated amendments include many subjects including programs relating to public safety, judiciary, energy, environmental aff airs, housing, labor and economic development. Supporters of the system say that any representative who sponsored an excluded amendment can bring it to the fl oor and ask for an up or down vote on the amendment itself. They say this system has worked well for many years. Opponents say that most members do not bring their amendment to the floor for an up-ordown vote because that is not the way the game is played. It is an “expected tradition” that you accept the fate of your amendment as determined by Democratic leaders. HOUSE APPROVES $61.47 BILLION FISCAL 2026 STATE BUDGET (H 4000) House 151-6, approved and sent to the Senate a $61.47 billion fi scal 2026 state budget after three days of debate. The House version now goes to the Senate which will approve its own version. A House-Senate conference committee will eventually craft a compromise plan that will be presented to the House and Senate for consideration and then sent to Gov. Maura Healey. “The House’s fiscal year 2026 budget makes key investments that better support Massachusetts students and families, that increase access to aff ordable health care and that provide for a safer and more reliable public transportation system – all without raising taxes,” said House Speaker Ron Mariano (D-Quincy). “In a moment of incredible uncertainty at the federal level, our budget is proof that government can be both fi scally responsible and an agent of good, the kind of government that our residents deserve.” “This budget builds off the successes of the last few years by prioritizing our residents,” said Rep. Aaron Michlewitz (D-Boston), chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means. “Whether it is greater investments into programs like housing stability, public transportation or early education, these initiatives are a refl ection of our shared values. By reinvesting in the people of the commonwealth, we will continue to make our economy more competitive and equitable for years to come.” “The fi scal year 2026 budget is a bloated budget that is not attached to the reality of our fi scal “Although there are many good aspects relating to municipal funding that I was happy to see included, it does not go far enough in that realm and continues to poorly prioritize funds. With the fi scal uncertainty relative to the federal government, it is reckless to pretend that this budget should be business as usual and support a budget increase of 7 percent yearover-year and nearly 50 percent in just six years.” “Beacon Hill has once again shown its commitment to secrecy over sound fi scal policy,” said Paul Craney, executive director of the Mass Fiscal Alliance. “The House tacked on $81 million in new spending over their original proposal. The last three days showed the House has no fi scal restraint. This was negotiated behind closed doors and rammed through massive, opaque consolidated amendments … At a time when the state is facing declining tax revenues, increased outmigration and deep structural budget challenges, lawmakers should be tightening the belt, not throwing more money into a budget crafted in the shadows.” (A “Yes” vote is for the budget. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. Jessica Giannino Yes Rep. Donald Wong Yes MUNICIPAL TAX AMNESTY (H 4000) House 25-132, rejected an amendment that would authorize cities and towns to conduct a municipal tax amnesty program over a two-month period, as determined by the local legislative body, any time prior to June 30, 2027. It specifi cally authorizes communities to waive any or all penalties, fees, charges and accrued interest if the original overdue tax assessment is paid in full. “This proposal would clear the way for the fi rst municipal tax amnesty since 2003,” said amendment sponsor Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “I fi led this as a fl exible local option for cities and towns to generate additional revenues by giving residents an incentive to pay their overdue property and excise taxes. This amnesty program would not only help communities but also would benefi t individuals who have outstanding tax liabilities so they can wipe the slate clean by settling their original debt.” Rep. Adrian Madaro (D-East Boston) opposed the amendment and said there is uncertainty in the budget writing process that we’re dealing with given the recent events in Washington, D.C. He said that the House drafted a budget taking into account current municipal collections in order to develop local aid and apportionments. He noted that adopting this measure right now may undermine those eff orts and require the House to reassess how much local aid will be needed to ensure cities and towns have the resources they need again, at a time when we don’t know what holes will need to be plugged at the federal level. (A “Yes” vote is for the amendment. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. Jessica Giannino No Rep. Donald Wong Yes ALLOW DETAINMENT BY IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT (H 4000) House 25-131, rejected an amendment that would provide a mechanism for law enforcement and the courts to detain individuals for United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) if the person poses a direct threat to public safety. It would specifi - cally allow for the detainment of individuals for possible immigration violations for up to 12 hours upon receipt of a written request and warrant from ICE. “This amendment is an attempt to respond to the 2017 Commonwealth v. Lunn decision, in which the Supreme Judicial Court determined the authority to honor ICE detainer requests is not expressly permitted under current statutes,” said amendment sponsor Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “The amendment is a relatively modest proposal because the authorization is limited to ICE detainer requests for individuals who pose a serious threat to public safety for engaging in, or being suspected of engaging in, specifi c crimes such as terrorism or espionage, criminal street gang activity, sexual abuse or exploitation, human traffi cking, unlawful fi rearm possession and drug distribution or traffi cking.” Rep. Daniel Cahill (D-Lynn) opposed the amendment and said there are criminal detainers issued by ICE and there are civil detainers. He noted that as a former prosecutor, he understands that when there’s a criminal warrant for an ICE detainer from a defendant and they are in the custody of Massachusetts, there is a cooperation with ICE to ensure that upon release of that defendant, or sometimes while a case is pending, ICE is notifi ed and they’re allowed to come pick up that defendant. What we’re talking about here would be for Massachusetts to cooperate with the federal government in civil detainers. The law says here in Massachusetts, we are not to detain someone a moment -- not 12 hours, not 12 seconds. When your case is concluded, you leave. What the federal government wants us to do is expend resources to hold people beyond that time. That’s a constitutional problem. (A “Yes” vote is for the amendment. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. Jessica Giannino No Rep. Donald Wong Yes RIGHT TO SHELTER (H 4000) House 27-129, rejected an amendment that would place further restrictions on the state’s right to shelter law by limiting participation in the commonwealth’s emergency housing assistance program to U.S. citizens who have resided in Massachusetts for at least six months. “Over the last two years, the state’s emergency shelter system has been plagued by cost overruns, fueled by the migrant crisis, which has led to waiting lists for services,” said Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “This amendment would help restore the original intent of the right to shelter law by ensuring that Massachusetts residents in need have access to emergency shelter.” Rep. Alice Peisch (D-Wellesley) opposed the amendment and said it would unfairly restrict eligibility for the emergency shelter program to citizens of the United States and make legal residents ineligible. She argued that it also raises constitutional questions around defined length of residency. She said that the state has put in a number of controls on this program and the number of people using it and seeking to use the program, is now down to 4,804 families. . (A “Yes” vote is for the amendment. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. Jessica Giannino No Rep. Donald Wong Yes PUBLIC SAFETY GRANT FUNDING (H 4000) House 28-128, rejected an amendment that would prohibit any city or town’s eligibility for public safety related grant funding from being contingent upon that municipality’s compliance with the MBTA Communities Act. The MBTA Communities Act, according to the state’s website, requires that an MBTA community “must have at least one zoning district of reasonable size in which multi-family housing is permitted as of right and meets other criteria” including minimum gross density of 15 units per acre; and a location not more than 1/2 mile from a commuter rail station, subway station, ferry terminal or bus station. No age restrictions can be applied and the district must be suitable for families with children. “Earlier this year, the Healey Administration changed the rules for the Firefi ghter Safety Equipment Grant program by denying grants to communities that are not in compliance with the MBTA Communities zoning law,” said amendment sponsor Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “Although the huge public outcry that followed led the governor to reverse course and restore this grant funding, it is important that we add language to the zoning law to ensure that this does not happen again. TyBEACON | SEE PAGE 18

Page 18 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 BEACON | FROM PAGE 17 ing public safety grant funding to compliance with the MBTA Communities Act is simply unacceptable, as it not only jeopardizes the public, but also the police, firefighters and other first responders who work to keep our communities safe.” Rep. Richard Haggerty (D-Woburn) opposed the amendment and said it is not needed because the Healey Administration showed its flexibility and announced that these grants are no longer at risk for noncompliant communities. (A “Yes” vote is for the amendment. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. Jessica Giannino No Rep. Donald Wong Yes REQUIRE ID TO VOTE (H 4000) House 25-131, rejected an amendment that would require voters to present a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, when voting. It also directs the Secretary of State’s office to develop a program to make a Massachusetts photo identification card available free of charge for voting purposes. “Establishing a voter ID requirement would help poll workers verify that an individual is properly registered to vote in Massachusetts,” said Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “This amendment would also allow individuals who do not have an ID to secure one free of charge through a new program that would be run through the Secretary of State’s office, which oversees elections.” Rep. Daniel Hunt (D-Dorchester) opposed the amendment and said that in states that already require this, it’s often used as a tool, not a rule, and it’s used to disenfranchise voters. He noted that the Elections Law Committee has not yet held hearings on several bills that are being considered relative to voter ID and urged members not to rush this amendment through the House but rather wait until the committee holds a public hearing on the bills. (A “Yes” vote is for the amendment. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. Jessica Giannino No Rep. Donald Wong Yes ALSO UP ON BEACON HILL WHEELCHAIR REPAIRS (H 1278) – The Financial Services Committee held a hearing on a bill that would mandate a ten-business day deadline for the completion of motorized wheelchair repairs, with a couple of exceptions. “The bill … models a law recently passed in Connecticut,” said sponsor Rep. Jim O’Day (D-West Boylston). “This proposal requires the repair of a motorized wheelchair to be completed within ten days, differing from a bill filed in the Senate that aims to extend warranty provisions. While I believe the House bill is easier to understand for both consumers and providers, both approaches seek to target the same issue – a consolidated market for repairs that leaves persons with disabilities and wheelchair users stranded and without options. At the end of the day, the goal is to expand consumer protection and dramatically improve life for Massachusetts residents who use wheelchairs.” HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN TRANSPARENCY (S 685) – Another measure heard by the Financial Services Committee would require health insurance plans that are regulated by the state to include the following statement on plan members’ identification cards: “This health plan is fully-insured, subject to all Massachusetts insurance laws.” Supporters said that this simple requirement would make it much easier for patients to understand what rights they have and what treatments are covered under their health plans. They noted that roughly half of Massachusetts residents with employer-based health insurance are in “fully-insured” plans regulated under Massachusetts law, while the other half are in “self-funded” plans that are federally regulated. They noted that the distinction is important, because fully insured plans are subject to state mandates guaranteeing access to treatment for more than a dozen medical conditions and for mental health conditions generally; and self-funded plans are not subject to these mandates. .“I filed [the bill] to make it easier for patients, providers and advocates to understand what rights and coverage apply to a given health insurance plan,” said sponsor Sen. Cindy Creem (D-Newton). “Right now, it’s often unclear whether a plan is subject to Massachusetts law - which can mean the difference between getting essential health services covered or not. This bill would add a simple line to insurance cards to clarify that distinction, following the lead of at least a dozen other states, including Connecticut and New York.” CONSUMER PROTECTION AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE COMMITTEE HEARING – The Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure held a hearing on several pieces of legislation including: AUTOMATIC RENEWAL OF PROFESIONAL LICENSES (S 275) - Would automatically renew professional licensures as opposed to requiring the license holder to submit an online application or wait on a renewal to be approved by a licensure board. Supporters said that this would be beneficial in more prompt renewal times for licenses, creating a more streamlined process that takes the burden off those who issue licenses and those who hold them. “I believe that this system of automatic renewal for those who must hold a professional licensure in Massachusetts will create an easier process for all involved in this system,” said sponsor Sen. Patrick O’Connor (R-Weymouth). “Automatic renewal would save the time and effort on the end of those who need their license renewed promptly and it may have not been a top priority among a demanding work schedule. Automated systems would keep errors at a minimum while ensuring renewal information is complete and consistent.” WAIVE SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER REQUIREMENT (H 451) - Would standardize what forms of identification can be used by applicants when applying for occupational licenses from the Division of Occupational Licensure and the Department of Public Health. The measure would allow individuals to submit a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) or another form of verified identification in place of a social security number. “Currently, there is no uniform policy across state licensing boards,” said sponsor Rep. Francisco Paulino (D-Methuen). “Some, like the Board of Registration in Nursing, already allow applicants to use a TIN. This means a qualified applicant can become a Registered Nurse but may be barred from becoming a Certified Nurse Assistant because the Certified Nurse Assistant Board does not accept a TIN. The inconsistency creates unnecessary barriers, particularly for tax-paying immigrants and others who are legally authorized to work or who are otherwise contributing members of our workforce.” “This reform is especially urgent in industries facing significant labor shortages, including healthcare, construction and other trades,” continued Paulino. “Allowing more qualified individuals to obtain licensure helps meet workforce demands and strengthens the state’s economy. By passing [the bill], Massachusetts would promote fairness, workforce inclusion and consistency, ensuring that professional opportunity is determined by skill and qualification—not paperwork inconsistencies between different state boards.” GAS STOVE WARNING (H464) - Would prohibit anyone from selling a gas stove that is produced or manufactured after January 1, 2026, without a warning label affixed to the stove. The warning label would read as follows: “Warning: Gas stoves can release nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide inside homes at levels exceeding the Environmental Protection Agency’s standards for outdoor air quality. The presence of these pollutants may exacerbate pre-existing respiratory illnesses or lead to the development of asthma, especially in children. Gas stoves may also release other pollutants, including benzene and formaldehyde.” “Gas stoves emit pollutants that can harm health -- irritating airways, and cause or exacerbate respiratory problems,” said sponsor Rep. Amy Sangiolo (D-Newton). “They burn natural gas which generates nitrogen dioxide which is known to have harmful health effects – irritating lungs and exacerbating or even causing respiratory conditions including asthma. Unburned natural gas contains benzene – a known carcinogen. Requiring warning labels is an efficient and effective way to ensure that consumers have the information they need to make an informed decision on their purchases.” TOXIC CHEMICALS IN CHILDREN’S PRODUCTS (H 384) – Would ban toxic chemicals, known as PFAs, in children’s products. The bill would require the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to establish a list of known toxic chemicals and require manufacturers and distributors to pay fees and submit biannual reports disclosing if these chemicals are in products they make or distribute for children under 12. After three years, the measure would ban the use of these chemicals in products for children three and under, children’s personal care products and anything designed to be put in a child’s mouth, such as a pacifier. The bill also allows DEP to restrict toxic chemicals from products for children 4-12 if scientific research shows a possible exposure risk. Safer alternatives must replace all toxic chemicals. Supporters said the bill intends to reduce or reverse rising rates of noncommunicable illness that a strong body of scientific evidence links to early life exposure to toxic chemicals, including childhood and young adult cancers, neurodevelopmental diseases such as ADHD, autism, behavioral and learning challenges, reproductive disorders and asthma. “We now know how damaging these forever chemicals are to humans, and especially vulnerable are children who cannot choose for themselves how to avoid unnecessary illnesses,” said sponsor Rep. Jim Hawkins (D-Attleboro). “It is our job and responsibility to protect them from harm and to use alternatives in the products we make and market to families. My office is grateful for the steadfast advocacy of organizations such as Clean Water Action, whose mission is to keep harmful PFAS out of children’s products.” QUOTABLE QUOTES “Our annual Advocacy Day is an opportunity to highlight the incredible impact assisted living has on the lives of older adults across Massachusetts. By sharing personal stories and advocating for policies like the Frail Elder Waiver expansion, we can ensure that more individuals have access to the care, community and independence that assisted living provides.” ---Mass Assisted Living Association (ALA) CEO Brian Doherty hosting the group’s annual Advocacy Day on Beacon Hill. .“For hundreds of years, agricultural fairs have been a way for the public to understand the importance of farming and how a thriving agricultural sector benefits everyone. Long before grocery stores and supermarkets, farmers sold their products directly to consumers.” ---Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Commissioner Ashley Randle announcing that the Healey Administration awarded over $2 million in grants to support agricultural fairs, farmers markets and programming to strengthen ‘Buy Local’ groups in Massachusetts. “We are proud to see Massachusetts recognized as the best state for working moms in the country. Our greatest strength is our people. We are home to the best childcare programs and schools, the most innovative businesses and a strong paid family medical leave program. Our administraBEACON | SEE PAGE 19

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 Page 19 BEACON | FROM PAGE 18 tion has made progress to expand the number of childcare seats, increase educator wages and stabilize childcare business. ---Gov. Maura Healey celebrating a recent national ranking of Massachusetts as the best state for working moms, beating out larger states like Florida and California and neighboring states like Connecticut, Rhode Island and New Hampshire. “It was an honor to be part of today’s Healthy Youth Summit, standing alongside leaders who are committed to building safer, stronger communities. As a kid from Boston, I know fi rsthand the challenges young people face and how important it is to have people in your corner. Through the work of Boston Athletic Academy and events like this, I’m proud to help create opportunities for kids to build resilience, trust and confi dence. Whether it’s on a team, in the classroom, or in life, every young person deserves a support system. I’m honored to represent the Red Sox and be part of the effort to set them up for success.” --- Manny Delcarmen, former Boston Red Sox player, on the Healey Administration hosting the fi rst-ever Healthy Youth Summit, a one-day conference aimed to equip local high school students with practical tools for healthy relationships with their peers, family members and the broader community. 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 BEACON | SEE PAGE 21 Sa n r Sa a y Senior Seni by Jim Miller How to Choose a Volunteer Vacation Dear Savvy Senior, What can you tell me about volunteer vacation programs? I’m a healthy, 60-year-old, single woman, and am interested in doing some solo traveling, but would like to tie it with something meaningful. Purposeful Traveler Dear Traveler, If you’re looking to do more on LLC’S TO AVOID THE MASS ESTATE TAX M any people who own real estate in Massachusetts yet establish residency in New Hampshire or Florida, for example, will place their Massachusetts real estate in a Limited Liability Company (LLC). If the LLC membership interest is held directly by an individual or by a living Trust for the benefi t of that individual, whether it be revocable or irrevocable, the New Hampshire or Florida resident, as the case may be, no longer will own real estate in Massachusetts that will be subject to the Massachusetts estate tax. That person will now own an intangible membership interest in an LLC similar to owning common stock in General Motors. As a Florida or New Hampshire resident, such common stock in General Motors would of course not be subject to the Massachusetts estate tax as this person is no longer a Massachusetts resident. If the Massachusetts real estate is rental real estate, if the LLC holding title is a single member LLC, no separate income tax return needs to be fi led for the LLC. The rental income and expenses can be reported on page 1 of Schedule E, Rental Income or Loss, as part of your Form 1040. If there are two or more members of the LLC, then Form 1065, Partnership Income Tax Return would have to be fi led for the LLC. The LLC would then issue a Schedule K-1 to each member of the LLC in order that the net rental income of the LLC be refl ected on page 2 of Schedule E. Keep in mind that if you plan on selling your home in Massachusetts, in order to take advantage of the $250,000 capital gains tax exclusion for a single person ($500,000 for a married couple fi ling a joint return) with respect to the sale of your principal residence, if you transfer your home into an LLC, you have 3 years to sell your home to take advantage of this capital gains tax exclusion. The reason is you have to own your home and live in your home for at least 2 out of the immediate 5 years prior to the date of sale. Once you transfer your home to the LLC, you won’t technically own it. The LLC will own the home. Another reason to place the Massachusetts real estate for a non-Mass resident into an LLC and then have a Trust own the LLC membership interest, would be to avoid having to probate your estate in the county where the real estate is located. If the LLC membership interest is placed into a revocable or irrevocable Trust, the terms of the Trust would dictate the ultimate disposition of the real estate. No probate proceedings would be necessary. Furthermore, if the LLC interest was placed into an irrevocable trust and more than fi ve years have gone by, the real estate would be protected against any possible future Medicaid lien and would not be considered a countable asset for Medicaid eligibility in the fi rst place. Joseph D. Ca taldo is an esta te planning/elder law a ttorney,Certified Public Accountant, Certified Financial Planner, AICPA Personal Financial Specialist and holds a masters degree in taxation. your next vacation than relax in the sun or go sightseeing, volunteer vacations – also known as voluntourism – which combine travel and volunteer work, are a great alternative for solo travelers and have become increasingly popular among older adults. Volunteer Vacations There are many organizations today that off er short-term volunteer vacation projects in the U.S. and abroad, lasting anywhere from a few days to a few months. Common program themes include teaching English, working with children and teens, building and repairing homes and schools, and assisting with community or environmental projects. In addition, volunteer vacations also give travelers the opportunity to experience the culture more fully and connect with the local people – much diff erent than your runof-the-mill sightseeing vacation. Most volunteer vacation groups accept singles, couples and families and you don’t need to speak a foreign language. Costs usually range from around $1,000 to $3,000 per week, not including transportation to the country your site is in. Fees typically cover pre-trip orientation information, room and board, onsite training, ground transportation once you get there, the services of a project leader, and a contribution to the local community that covers material and services related to the project. And, if the organization running your trip is a nonprofi t, the cost of your trip, including airfare, is probably tax-deductible. Where to Look While there are many organizations that off er volunteer vacations, here are some good options to look into. • Global Volunteers (globalvolunteers.org): A pioneer in global travel, this group tackles hunger, poverty and educational needs. It off ers a variety of one, two and three-week service programs in 12 countries, including the U.S. • Earthwatch Institute (earthwatch.org): With an emphasis in environmental conservation and research, they offer dozens of one and two-week expeditions in countries all over the world. • Conservation VIP (conservationvip.org): Provides environmental conservation volunteer projects to seven destinations abroad and three in the U.S. • Biosphere Expeditions (biosphere-expeditions.org): Offers wildlife conservation expeditions in six countries. • Habitat for Humanity (habitat.org): Offers international house-building trips through its Global Village Program in 16 countries. • Natucate (natucate.com): With a focus on nature and species conservation, they offer one-to-12week trips in 32 diff erent countries. • American Hiking Society (americanhiking.org): Targeting hikers and backpackers they off er weekend and week-long volunteer vacations in the U.S. that focus on building and maintaining trails. • International Volunteer HQ (volunteerhq.org): Off ers a wide variety of one-to-24-week volunteer service projects in dozens of countries. How to Choose With so many diff erent volunteer vacations to choose from, selecting one can be diffi cult. To help you decide, you need to think specifi cally about what you want. For example: Where you want to go and for how long? What types of work are you interested in doing? What kind of living situation and accommodations do you want? Do you want to volunteer alone or with a group? Do you want a rural or urban placement? Also consider your age and health. Are you up to the task, or do you have any special needs that will need to be met? Once you fi gure out what you want and spot a few volunteer vacations that interest you, ask the organization to send you information that describes the accommodations, the fees and what they cover including their refund policy, the work schedule and work details, and anything else you have questions about. Also, get a list of previous volunteers and call them. 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. nior ior

Page 20 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 OBITUARIES Daryll Welch rope, enriching both her life and the lives of her students with global perspectives and experiences. At home, Daryll’s compasA beloved educator, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, and deep devotion to teaching and animals. Daryll earned her degree from UMass Amherst and a master’s degree from Salem State, which launched a lifelong career in teaching that spanned continents. She began her career in the Saugus Public Schools, where she became a cherished figure in the community. Known for her remarkable memory and genuine interest in others, Daryll could often recall former students and their families’ years after they had left her classroom. Her passion for education led her beyond the borders of the U.S., teaching on military bases in Germany and Japan. While abroad, she traveled extensively throughout Eusion extended to all living creatures. A devoted animal lover, she cared for the wildlife that visited her yard—feeding squirrels, birds, skunks, and raccoons—and was a loving cat mom to six beloved cats over the years. Daryll was a long-time member of the First Congregational Church of Saugus and served as a director of the New Friends of the Saugus Public Library, where she continued to foster learning and community engagement beyond the classroom. She was predeceased by her parents, Edith and Harold Welch, and her brother, Wayne Welch. She is survived by her sister, Barbara Blunt, and her sister-in-law, Barbara Welch; her nieces, Pam Morrissey and Jan Teitgen; and her nephews, Stephen Rice, Kevin Welch, Alan Welch, and Brian Welch. She also leaves behind many great- and great-great-nieces and nephews who will carry her memory forward. Daryll will be remembered for her warmth, her enduring love of teaching, and her unwavering kindness to both people and animals. Relatives and friends were invited to attend a visitation in the Bisbee-Porcella Funeral Home, Saugus on Wednesday, May 7 followed by a service in the funeral home. Interment Riverside Cemetery, Saugus. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to the Salem Northeast Animal Shelter (MSPCA-Angell). Ida (Annese) Thompson and Michael A. Annese. Relatives and friends were invited to attend visitation in the Bisbee-Porcella Funeral Home Saugus, on Monday, May 5 followed by a funeral service in the funeral home. Interment Riverside Cemetery, Saugus. Walter R. Florentino, Jr., Age 71, of Lynn, died on Friday, May 2nd. B O f Saugus. Died on Thursday evening at Advina Care in Salem at the age of 92. She was the wife of the late William Thompson. Born in Boston and a lifelong resident of Saugus, she was the daughter of the late Antonio and Nelsie (Genica) Annese. Ida was employed by Lynnway Liquors in Lynn for more than 35 years. She was an avid Red Sox, Patriots and Bruins fan. Her family would like to thank her Heritage Heights Family for making her final years so wonderful. Mrs. Thompson is survived by many nieces and nephews. She was the mother of the late Nelsie Thompson, sister of the late Anthony Annese sailors’ convenience? 9. Cattle stomachs have how many compartments: one, three or four? 1. On May 9, 1860, in Scotland, J.M. Barrie was born; he authored what play about an eternal boy? 2. Dubai chocolate bars are well known for having what kind of nuts? 3. How are Bermuda, board and cargo similar? 4. On May 10, 1869, the Golden Spike Ceremony at Promontory Summit in Utah celebrated completion of what? 5. How are snooker and pool similar? 6. Why did an Ontarian create Ark Two Shelter, which has 42 recycled school buses? 7. On May 11, 1997, the Deep Blue computer won what type of game? 8. What state with the motto “Eureka!” has over 100 active floating bathrooms, including the S.S. Relief, for kayakers and 10. On May 12, 1820, what nurse with a bird’s name for a last name was born in Florence, Italy? 11. What is another word for sprinkles? 12. Colonel Loammi Baldwin, who fought in the Revolutionary War, is the namesake of what? 13. What is the Sea of Cortés also known as? 14. On May 13, 1909, the first Giro d’Italia began, which is what type of competition? orn in Boston and raised in Saugus, Walter was the son of Angelina (Feudo) and the late Walter Florentino of Saugus. A resident of Lynn for the past 25 years, he was a former jet engine mechanic at the G.E. Walter was a member of the Saugus High School Class of 1973 where he played football. He was a devoted PatriOBITS | SEE PAGE 21 Discount Services - Raccoons - Squirrel Removal 781-269-0914 Discount Tree Service 781-269-0914 ANSWERS Professional TREE REMOVAL & Cleanups 24-HOUR SERVICE 15. Which of these is not a ghost town: Dog Mountain, Dogtown or Yellow Dog? 16. Why is mashed potato wrestling thought to be waste-free? 17. On May 14, 2015, musician “B.B.” King died; what does “B.B.” stand for? 18. In April 2025 why did a university student with apparent altitude sickness have to be rescued twice from Mt. Fuji? 19. Recently, in what country did 21 humanoid robots race alongside humans in a half-marathon? 20. May 15 is Peace Officers Memorial Day; which was created by what president? 20. May 15 is Peace Officers Memorial Day; which was created by what president? 1. “Peter Pan” 2. Pistachios 3. They are types of shorts. 4. The first transcontinental railroad 5. Snooker is a variation of the game of pool having mostly red balls. 6. It is an underground shelter in case of nuclear war. 7. Against World Chess Champion Garry Kasparov 8. California 9. Four 10. Florence Nightingale 11. Jimmies 12. Baldwin apple 13. Gulf of California 14. A multiple stage, long-distance bicycle race primarily in Italy 15. Dog Mountain – a tourist-type venue in St. Johnsbury, Vt. 16. Cattle usually dine on the mashed potatoes after the matches. 17. Blues Boy 18. He went back to find his mobile phone. 19. China (Beijing) 20. JFK

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 OBITS | FROM PAGE 20 ots fan. He served in both the U.S. Air Force and Marines. In addition to his mother, We follow Social Distancing Guidelines! Mr. Florentino is survived by his three daughters, Angela Florentino and her husband Kenji Foley of Lynn, Kristina McCarthy and her husband Michael of Melrose and Janine Florentino and her fiancé Joseph Penza of Saugus; five grandchildren, Nathaniel, Julian and Miles McCarthy, and Haley and AshC B& American Exterior and Window Corporation Contact us for all of your home improvement projects and necessities. Call Jeff or Bob Toll Free: 1-888-744-1756 617-699-1782 / www.americanexteriorma.com Windows, Siding, Roofing, Carpentry & More! All estimates, consultations or inspections completed by MA licensed supervisors. *Over 50 years experience. *Better Business Bureau Membership. Insured and Registered Complete Financing Available. No Money Down. ley Foley; one great grandchild, Olivia Welch; one sister, Julie Mitchell and her husband Jeff of Saugus; and his nephew and nieces Kurt, Ashley, Brittnay and Victoria. He was predeceased by his sister Linda Florentino. In lieu of flowers, donations in Walter’s memory may be made to the American Lung Association at lung.org. Services were held at the Bisbee-Porcella Funeral Home on Thursday. Landscaping, Inc. 781-233-0348 * Landscaping Maintenance * Mulch * Lawn Mowing & Dethatching * Spring & Fall Clean-ups * Owner-Operated FREE ESTIMATES * CANDBLANDSCAPINGINC.COM The Kid Does Clean Outs From 1 item to 1,000 * Basements * Homes * Backyards * Commercial Buildings The cheapest prices around! Call Eric: (857) 322-2854 Frank Berardino MA License 31811 Steps Stoops Rebuilt or Repaired Chimney Rebuilt or Repaired House Foundation Leaks Repaired All Basement Repairs Chimney Inspection Roofing & Siding Masonry Repairs Window Installation & Repairs Drywall & Carpentry Waterproofing • 24 - Hour Service • Emergency Repairs BERARDINO Plumbing & Heating Residential & Commercial Service Gas Fitting • Drain Service 617.699.9383 Senior Citizen Discount BEACON | FROM PAGE 19 Page 21 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 filed. They note that the infrequency and brief length of sessions are misguided and lead to irresponsible late-night sessions and a mad rush to act on dozens of bills in the days immediately preceding the end of an annual session. During the week of April 28May 2, the House met for a total of 25 hours and 11 minutes while the Senate met for a total of three hours and 47 minutes. Mon. April 28House11:05 a.m. to 8:22 p.m. Senate 11:19 a.m. to 1:59 p.m. Tues.April 29House11:01 a.m. to 8:42 p.m. No Senate session. Wed. April 30House11:01 a.m. to 5:10 p.m. No Senate session Thurs. May 1 House11:00 a.m. to 11:04 a.m. Senate 11:10 a.m. to 12:17 p.m. Fri. May 2 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. Clean-Outs! We take and dispose from cellars, attics, garages, yards, etc. Call Robert at: 781-844-0472

Page 22 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 Your Hometown News Delivered! A Reader’s Perspective EVERETT ADVOCATE MALDEN ADVOCATE REVERE ADVOCATE SAUGUS ADVOCATE One year subscription to The Advocate of your choice: $200 per paper in-town per year or $225 per paper out-of-town per year. Name_________________________________________ Address_______________________________________ City_______________ State_______ Zip ____________ CC# _______________________________ Exp. _____ Sec. code____ Advocate (City):___________________ Clip & Mail Coupon with Credit Card, Check or Money Order to: Advocate Newspapers Inc. PO Box 490407, Everett, MA 02149 Happy Mother’s Day: a gentle nod to moms By Joanie Allbee I t’s been said long ago that “the hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world.” The American Poet William Ross Wallace penned such insightful truths about mothers in that powerful statement. Sunday, May 11 sets before us a special time to honor our moms. Let’s reach out and use this day wisely, as we never know if the chance will present itself again. There’s nothing worse than crying a bucket full of tears from the “if onlys” as in, if only I took the time to … (fi ll in the blank). As time transcends forward, the future unfolds in uncertainty. Take the time now for your moms; go pick up some fl owers, make a call, choose a card to send or write a gratitude letter for who she is and all she’s done. This Sunday, my voice will once again echo through grasses, stones and shrubs as mere vibrations drift in an earthy cemetery plot where Mom lies. As I kneel beside her to whisper my goodbyes, I refl ect on one of Mom’s ingrained wisdoms, “Where there is a will, there is a way” – an expression that propelled me forward to seek and fi nd the way, the solutions, rather than focus on the problems. Silent wishes can’t send forth actions to show love. With the gift of fragile time held in your hands, go forth to embrace and express love to your mom. Editor’s Note: Saugus resident Joanie Allbee is a local artist and frequent contributor to The Saugus Advocate. She is an author and longtime writer of articles for various publications. She is better known to our readers as “The Sketch Artist.” TRINITY REAL ESTATE 321 MAIN STREET | SAUGUS, MA | VILLAGE PARK TrinityHomesRE.com New Listing: 24-26 Leonard Street, Woburn List Price: $799,000 11 room, 5 bedroom, 2 full bath Charming Two-Family Home with Endless Potential, perfectly situated near schools, major highways, and a variety of desirable amenities. This wellmaintained property offers a fantastic opportunity for owneroccupants or investors alike. Don’t miss this opportunity to own a classic property with so much potential! Listing Agent: Lucia Ponte 781.883.8130 New Listing: 14 Aaron Street, Melrose List Price: $649,000 Nestled on a quiet residential street in Melrose, this oldstyle 9 room, 5 bedroom, 2 full bathroom Colonial has been in the same family for many years and is ready for its next chapter. A great opportunity for buyers looking to restore and personalize this property located in a desirable community. Listing Agent: Lucia Ponte 781.883.8130 26 Houston Avenue, Saugus-List Price: $699,900 8 room, 4 bedroom, 2 full bath Classic New England Style Colonial, a true gem filled with period details and modern updates. Elegant living room, formal dining room with builtins,tastefully renovated kitchen, deck, above-ground pool and patio area. High ceilings add character and charm to this beautiful home. Don't miss the opportunity to make this one your own. Listing Agent: Lori Johnson 781.718.7409 781.231.9800 433 Central Street, Saugus-List Price: $499,900 This sunny Colonial offers 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, an eat-in kitchen with bay window, spacious living room, formal dining room, and a cozy 3-season sunroom overlooking the yard. Features include central air, replacement windows, off-street parking, and a corner lot. Conveniently located near schools, shopping, and public transportation. Lovingly maintained by the same family for over 50 years—bring your vision and make it your own! Listing Agent: Lori Johnson 781.718.7409 101 Waite Street, A7, Malden List Price: $279,999 Fantastic opportunity for investors or homeowners looking to build instant sweat equity! This spacious 1-bedroom condo features large living room, dining area and lots of closets! Incredible potential! Enjoy common laundry room on same floor, a deeded parking space, and plenty of on-street parking. Listing Agent: Diane Horrigan 781.526.6357 RENTAL-581 Proctor Avenue, 2, Revere Monthly: $2400.00 Cozy 2-bedroom+ small office area and 1-bath apartment featuring a modern kitchen with dishwasher, refrigerator and microwave. Laminate floors throughout and ample storage. Primary bedroom has large closet area. Wall AC and ceiling fans. Includes 2-car parking . Rent is based on 3 person occupancy. Tenant pays for all utilities. No smoking . No pets. Listing Agent: Annemarie Torcivia 781.983.5266 Providing Real Estate Services for Nearly Two Decades Servicing Saugus, Melrose, Wakefield, Malden, all North Shore communities, Boston and Beyond. GRAVESIDE REFLECTIONS: Joanie Allbee will be thinking about her late mom this coming Sunday as she observes Mother’s Day. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) For Advertising with RESULTS, call The Advocate Newspapers at 781-233-4446 or info@advocatenews.net Follow Us

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 9, 2025 Page 23 OPEN HOUSE! 905 MAIN ST, LYNNFIELD, MA $899,000 Dreaming of a move-in ready home in Lynnfield that offers style, space, and Wvalue? Your search ends here. For more details call Peter at 781-820-5690 elcome home to this beautifully renovated Cape where no expense has been spared. s Perfectly situated on a spacious corner lot with both front and back driveways, this blends luxury, comfort, and convenience. Step into a sun-filled open-concept yout p h t p li p home featuring gleaming hardwood floors, a designer kitchen with high-end Bosch appliances (including a 36" stove), quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, and a large center island. pliances ps and l y new flooring, and direct access to the garage through a widened entry. Outside, you’ll ind a new driveway, deck, and freshly painted shed—ready to welcome you home. ou’ll ind’ll id p d , space, f Join us at the open house and experience this home for yourse Friday, May 9 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Saturday, May 10 | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM Sunday, May 11 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM e Peter Manoogian REAL ESTATE AGENT PHONE NO: 781-820-5690 Mango Realty Inc – Your Trusted Team of Local Real Estate Experts Helping you find your way home, one key at a time. island. ild Enjoy all-new systems including 200-amp electrical, plumbing, dual-zone heat pumps and a brand-new septic and leaching field. The finished basement offers extra living space t SUE PALOMBA 617-877-4553 CEO OF MANGO REALTY JEANINE MOULDEN 617-312-2491 ROSA RESCIGNO 781-820-0096 LEA DOHERTY 617-594-9164 MARIE RICHEMOND 609-553-7427 NORMA PARZIALE 978-994-5261 ROSE CIAMPI 617-957-9222 CHRISTINE DESOUSA 603-670-3353 CARL GREENLER 781-690-1307 Ron Visconti (617) 387-6432 38 Main St Saugus MA 01906 563 Broadway Everett, MA 02149 32 Main Street Rockport, MA 01966

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