THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MAy 10, 2024 Page 11 Welcome to Cliftondale Saugonians and former town residents enjoy “Open House” at The MEG; many revisit old memories and friends By Janice K. Jarosz T he MEG Foundation Board of Directors extend their appreciation to all of those who attended the recent Open House at The MEG – known to many as the old Cliftondale School. During last weekend’s event (May 4-5), many former students reconnected with fellow school chums, meeting at the school building that held so many cherished memories of their school years from the first grade to the fourth. Some “boys” even admitted to the many hours they spent in the principal’s office, the strap and ruler on her desk, rarely used, but threatening nonetheless. Blackboards were filled with dozens of class photos, original letters from students thanking Mr. Bogdan for a field trip they took to Anna Parker Playground, the “basement pass,” familiar class books, graded tests and a large bowl of candy from the forties and fifties. Charles Bond, who donated the property to the town and was a very generous benefactor, filled the front lobby with a written history of his life, photos and articles about his famous Blackstone cigars handmade in the “Bond Block,” on the corner of Jackson and Essex, now under new ownership. At one time, Blackstone cigars were one of the largest manufacturers of cigars throughout the country. Miss Marleah Graves was also remembered with photos and stories from former students about her life and her more than 47 years of teaching the second grade. She was described as a teacher with a quiet but strong voice, warm hugs and love and kindness to all. We had more than 150 people over the two days. Three brothers who all went to school there came down from New Hampshire. Some of the visitors came from quite aways – from Rhode Island and Western Massachusetts. A lot of them exchanged phone numbers and wanted to get together again. We passed out a lot of good local history during our “Welcome to Cliftondale” Open House. Special thanks to our busi“The Graduating Class of 2024” at The MEG: Seated in the first row are Andrew Whitcomb and Debra Panetta; in the back row are Stephanie Mastrocola, “Principal” Shirley Bogdan, Janice K. Jarosz, Lee Dyment and Lorraine Wilton. All graduated with honors! (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Steve Bevacqua) ness neighbors Webster First Credit Union, GCA Jewelers, Mike’s Barber Shop, the Blue Moon Cigar Shop, Mark Vogler of The Saugus Advocate, Clark Moulaison of Saugus Cable TV, State Representative Donald Wong, contributors Edward and Marilyn Carlson, Mary Leary and Stephen Carlson, from the Saugus Historical Society, town officials, and my special gratitude to the following board members who, together, recreated an event for our many visitors who were able to share with one another their A Historic Honor Local SHS Student Elected State President of Children of the American revolution at Mount Vernon ceremony (Editor’s Note: The following info is based on a press release issued this week by the Parson Roby Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution [DAR].) I n a momentous occasion steeped in patriotism and history, Caylee Cassarino, a 10th grader at Saugus Middle High School, was installed as the Massachusetts State President of the Children of the American Revolution (C.A.R.) at the iconic Mount Vernon estate in Virginia. The ceremony, which was held on the estate once owned by George Washington, marks a significant achievement in Caylee’s dedication to patriotism, history and historic preservation in her growth within the C.A.R. organization. Caylee is the granddaughter of Gail Cassarino, local regent of the DAR, who has been elected Senior State President. The National Society of the Children of the American Revolution (N.S.C.A.R.) is an organization that was founded on April 5, 1895, by Harriett Lothrop of Massachusetts. Her intention was “for the training of young people in true patriotism and love of country.” N.S.C.A.R. was chartered by the United States Congress, and it is now the nation’s oldest and largest patriotic youth organization. It offers membership to anyone under the age of 22 who is lineally descended from someone who served in the Continental Army or gave material aid to the cause of freedom in the American Revolution. There are three parent organizations: Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) and Sons of Revolution (SR). Caylee, being elected as State President, is committed to uphold the principles and ideals upon which our great nation was built. With Mount Vernon as a backdrop, she pledged to lead by example, inspiring C.A.R. members to embrace their role as guardians of American’s history. The C.A.R. society and members educate other children on American history through fun educational programs, community service initiatives and interesting commemorative events, and they promote patriotism – preserving American history and honoring the sacrifices of our nation’s founders. You will see Caylee and other members marching in the Memorial Day Parade, placing flags on the Field of Flags on Veterans Day, participating in both Constitution Day and Wreaths Across America events, picking up trash on the bike trail or reading to young children. Caylee has always loved performing and has been in local performances since she was five. Her State Project is based on her passion. She is raising money for a nonprofit cause where teens with disabilities – physically and intellectualyouthful memories of years gone by. Thank you, Paula Walsh, Steve and Paula Bevacqua, Laurie Davis, Michelle Cannizzaro, Rhonda Coombe, Kathy Giannetta, Skyler and Linda Ross, Joyce Rossetti, Karen Speziale, Patty Staples and Judy Worthley. A PATRIOTIC EXPERIENCE: Caylee Cassarino, a 10th grader at Saugus Middle High School, in front of George Washington’s historic Mount Vernon estate in Virginia, where she was installed as State President of the Children of the American Revolution (C.A.R.). (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) ly – will have the opportunity to participate in a drama program. If you want to learn more or interested in becoming a member, please email https:// massachusettscar.weebly. com/. If you would like to donate to this project, make check payable to M.S.C.A.R. and mail it to 27 Pearson St., Saugus, MA 01906.
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