SAUGUS Your Local News, Sports & More! Scan & Subscribe to Advocate News Online! O Vol. 28, No.22 -FREE- www.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday SAUGUS HIGH GRADUATION F CLASS OF 2026 LEADERS: Left to right: Salutatorian Zenera Shahu, Class President Maria Silva and Valedictorian Evelyne Meas took a break during graduation practice earlier this week. Tonight they will deliver speeches at graduation ceremonies set for 6 p.m. at Christie Serino Jr. Memorial Stadium. Please see inside for more coverage of Saugus High’s 155th commencement exercises. (Saugus Advocate Photo by Mark E. Vogler) Home of the Week Offered at $689,000 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth Real Estate Formerly Carpenito Real Estate SAUGUS - 1st AD - Welcome Home to this 7 room 3 bedroom 1 & ½ bath single family cape in the desirable Iron works part of town. The well-maintained open concept kitchen features Vinyl flooring and modern appliances with side egress to a porch and deck overlooking the in-ground pool, yard and driveway. Newly refinished hardwood floors throughout living room and dining area. 2nd floor primary bedroom has wall to wall and a walk-in closet which is above the 1st floor bathroom. Finished heated lower-level family room with ½ bath walks out to the covered patio area, fenced in back yard and pool. Have fun this summer entertaining with a beautiful in-ground pool and back yard. Home has a new roof in 2025. Newer furnace 2019 and new side steps. Pool liner roughly 2 years old. (781) 233-7300 335 Central St. Saugus commonmoves.com ©2024 BHH Affiliates, LLC, An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity. D E CAT CAT AT C TE 781-233-4446 Friday, June 5, 2026 A Rare “Zero Percent Increase” With uncertainty over impact of new water meters on user costs, selectmen voted to keep sewer rates the same By Mark E. Vogler or the fi rst time in more than a decade, Saugus homeowners and businesses won’t see an increase in their sewer rates. Selectmen voted unanimously on Tuesday (June 2), after receiving their annual sewer rate analysis from longtime consultant Matt Abrahams of The Abrahams Group, to vote for a zero percent increase in sewer rates for the 2027 Fiscal Year that begins July 1. Some board members were concerned about the possibility of residential and commercial users having to pay higher bills anyway because of the ongoing installation of new water meters – which are expected to provide more accurate and higher usage readings than the old meters that are going to be replaced. Uncertainty over the exact impact of the new water meters on future water and sewer bills – coupled with the town having accrued adequate retained earnings in its sewer budget to go a year without an increase – infl uenced the seCongratulations Class of 2026 Graduates! Mid-grade Regular 4.08 4.45 5.07 $4.67 Full Service ULS $3.989 Order online at angelosoil.com Kerosene Now Available! Established 1978 lectmen’s decision. “We’re getting an increase because the [new] meters are more accurate. Don’t give us another bump,” one resident pleaded before selectmen took their vote. In an interview after the meeting, Board of Selectmen Chair Debra Panetta said that while she and other members were agreeable to approving the lowest possible sewer rate hike, she’s convinced that selectmen agreed on the best option, given the circumstances. “We have a healthy situation in retained earnings. At least we can fall back on that. If we didn’t have that, there’s no way we’d vote for the zero percent increase,” Panetta told The Saugus Advocate. “Based on the information that was presented to us, we tried to be thoughtful and prudent while also looking out for the residents,” she said. It remains to be seen whether recent resident concerns expressed about the accuracy of water bills and the uncertainty ZERO PERCENT | SEE PAGE 2 FLEET CARD Check Out Our LOW PRICES!
Page 2 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 5, 2026 Saugus celebrates the college degrees of Maureen Whitcomb and her quadruplets with a graduation party By Laura Eisener S unday afternoon a delightful graduation party was held at the Italian American Club for the last two members of the Whitcomb family who graduated from UMass Lowell this May. ZERO PERCENT | FROM PAGE 1 of how the new meters will affect future bills has any bearing on the upcoming Town Meeting vote on whether to increase water rates. The Finance Committee was scheduled to meet Wednesday night, which was after the deadline for The Saugus Advocate. Depending on the action taken by the Finance Committee in recommending a handful of articles (including the town and School Department budgets), Town Meeting could reconvene as early as next Monday night (June 8) for what could be the fourth and final session of this year’s Annual Town Meeting. The remaining five articles include consideration of a possible water rate increase. An article in The Advocate on Friday, May 22, outlined how five members of a Saugus family, Maureen Whitcomb and her quadruplets, all graduated from UMass Lowell a few years apart, the first generations of their family to get their college deDuring selectmen’s afternoon session on Tuesday, Abrahams presented three options for selectmen to consider: • A 6 percent increase in the sewer rate, which would result in a $239 bill twice a year for the average residential user – a $28 increase. The average commercial user would pay a bill of $2,220 twice a year – a $252 increase. • A 5 percent increase in the sewer rate, which would result in a $237 bill twice a year for the average residential user – a $22 increase. The average commercial user would pay a bill of $2,199 twice a year – a $210 increase. • A 4 percent increase in the sewer rate, which would result in a $235 bill twice a year for the average residential user – an $18 increase. The average grees! By encouraging each other to achieve their goals, they kept going through tough times and pulled off a spectacular Saugus success story. The family was even mentioned on People.com in an online article written by Sam Gillette and published commercial user would pay a bill of $2,178 twice a year – a $168 increase. Board of Selectmen Vice Chair Anthony Cogliano said he opposed any increase in the sewer bill because of his concerns about the accuracy of water meter readings, particularly on properties he owns. “I have four homes in Saugus. One has 17 people living in it. That’s a four family house with 17 people. The bill was $1,200,” Cogliano said of a recent water bill. “I have another three family home with nine people living in it. You combine those two houses, the bill was $3,100 between the two houses. I have two houses with five people in one and four in another, and the bill was $7,200. I’m not voting for anything until I figure out what’s going on with these May 19, 2026, so the story of this Saugus success is now known far beyond Massachusetts’ borders. Maureen worked hard to enable her four children to grow up and attend college. Her two daughters Diana and Colette began attending bills. That’s just it. I’m not doing it,” he said. Cogliano also mentioned the abatements that 15 residents had filed for on their water bills. Selectman Frank Federico initially said he was not ready to vote for any increase after receiving his package of information on Abrahams’ analysis on short notice. Later, he told colleagues that he had received feedback from residents urging him to vote against any increase. Selectman Jeff Cicolini was prepared to vote for an increase, until Cogliano and Federico expressed their opposition to voting for a rate increase. “I don’t feel comfortable if we’re going to have two members who feel like zero percent is appropriate. That puts us in a tough spot as a classes at UMass Lowell first, choosing the school’s Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences. They both graduated in 2023, Diana getting a GRADUATION PARTY | SEE PAGE 3 group, as a board,” Cicolini said. “And I understand, and I’m not saying who’s right and who’s wrong. But the operating costs are the operating costs. Do we have the retained earnings to absorb it for one year? Yes,” he said. If selectmen didn’t vote to increase the sewer rates, they would have to use $1.2 million from the retained earnings to balance the budget, Abrahams told selectmen. “We’re budgeted to use $1.2 million, but it’s really $600,000,” Cicolini said, noting that the town never used the $600,000 in retained earnings this year. Cicolini pointed out that the 2021 Fiscal Year was the last time the town’s sewer budget ran at a deficit. “A lot of our retained earnings have accumulated over the last five years,” he said. Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree urged selectmen to carefully consider and understand the potential consequences in making their decision. “When you go with a zero, it’s very difficult to make up that zero,” he said. Crabtree recalled that the sewer budget had constantly run at a deficit before his administration took over. “I think we’ve done a good job stabilizing these accounts,” he said. Selectman Michael Serino said he thought it was a wise decision for selectmen to wait and see the amount of money the new meters would bring in. And based on that information, selectmen would be in a better position to decide future rate increases. About 7,900 out of 9,600 of Saugus property owners have ZERO PERCENT | SEE PAGE 12
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 5, 2026 Page 3 GRADUATION PARTY | FROM PAGE 2 degree in nursing and Collette in nutritional sciences. Maureen’s son Andrew graduated in 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in business and got his master’s degree in business administration from UMass Lowell’s Manning School of Business in 2025. The fourth quadruplet, Bryce, got an associate’s degree at North Shore Community College and then transferred to the Manning School at UMass Lowell and graduated this spring. Maureen had acquired an associate’s degree in marketing from North Shore Community College in 2018, but in the midst of her children’s college years she did not think she would continue until her kids urged her to pursue her dreams. This spring the 62-year-old Saugus woman graduated magna cum laude in the same graduation ceremony with Bryce, fulfilling the family goals. They are not necessarily CITATIONS FROM BEACON HILL: Left to right: State Representative Sean Reid, Maureen Whitcomb and State Senator Brendan P. Crighton after Whitcomb received citations from the Governor’s offi ce and the State Senate. (Photo Courtesy of Maureen Whitcomb to The Saugus Advocate) A FAMILY AFFAIR: Five college graduates – Maureen Whitcomb and her quadruplets – enjoyed a graduation party on Sunday afternoon. Pictured from left to right: Back row: Jake Aldred, fi - ancé of Colette, Colette Whitcomb (Maureen’s daughter), nephew Jonathan Capone and Maureen’s brother Bill Meader; front row: Maureen’s son Andrew Whitcomb, niece Jiana Capone, 2026 graduate Maureen Whitcomb, son and fellow 2026 graduate Bryce Whitcomb and daughter Diana Whitcomb. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) fi nished with education yet. Collette also just fi nished an additional associate’s degree last week at North Shore in Radiology. Andrew is working on his law degree from Suff olk. Maureen is considering a master’s degree. Sunday’s par ty was attended by extended family, friends and coworkers of all four Whitcombs. Maureen is a town meeting member for Precinct 4, sits on the Housing Authority and works in GRADUATION PARTY | SEE PAGE 13 Lawrence A. Simeone Jr. Attorney-at-Law ~ Since 1989 ~ * Corporate Litigation * Criminal/Civil * MCAD * Zoning/Land Court * Wetlands Litigation * Workmen’s Compensation * Landlord/Tenant Litigation * Real Estate Law * Construction Litigation * Tax Lien * Personal Injury * Bankruptcy * Wrongful Death * Zoning/Permitting Litigation 300 Broadway, Suite 1, Revere * 781-286-1560 lsimeonejr@simeonelaw.net 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 PHONE: (617) 387-7466 FAX: (617) 381-9186 Visit us online at: WWW.SABATINO-INS.COM
Page 4 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 5, 2026 Saugus High School Class of 2026 Seven out of 10 of this year’s graduates have plans of attending two- or four-year institutions this fall By Mark E. Vogler S augus High School Class President Maria Silva, 18, said she plans on attending Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in the fall to study courses in pursuit of a career in nursing and ultimately as a nurse practitioner. Evelyne Meas, 18, the Valedictorian in the Class of 2026, and Zenera Shahu, 17, the Salutatorian, are both headed to Tufts University. Meas plans a double major in Biochemistry and Fine Arts, with career aspirations of becoming a pathologist. Shahu plans to study Biology in a premed track in hopes of becoming a physician one day. Her dream job would be as a pediatrician, working with children from birth through the age of 18. They are among the top students who will be addressing their fellow graduates tonight as Saugus High holds its 155th Commencement Exercises. “The most exciting thing for me during my High School career was being elected by my classmates to be president for four years and also being on the volleyball team that went to the tournament,” said Silva, who was captain of the volleyball and softball teams. “We’re a very well-rounded class with a diverse group of students,” she said. Silva is also a proud student athlete, who served as vice president of the National Honor Society. Silva’s sister, Ana, is a 2024 Saugus High graduate who played on the girls’ basketball team. Meas said she sees “good leadership capabilities” as part of what makes this year’s class “special.” She said she also regards “getting over stage fright when I joined the Drama Club and Acapella” as her biggest accomplishments. “I think I’m pretty good now,’ she said of her public speaking skills. She plans to research women’s health. “Many women get misdiagnosed with their health problems,” Meas said. “I think it would be interesting to study the biological differences between the sexes,” she said. “I chose Tufts because I know it has a really good art program. I like anything to do with art. I want to do as many things as I can in college.” Meas played tennis for four years and was captain of the women’s team. She also played on the girls volleyball team. Meas was born in Boston, the daughter of immigrant parents from Cambodia. She said her brother, Cornyn, is a top-ranked student in the 10th grade. Shahu is a cofounder and 50 served as copresident of the school’s Environmental Club along with her friend and classmate Isabella Vasi. The two students caught the attention of local ecologists for creating the club during their sophomore year at Saugus High. Last year, the local group Saugus Action Volunteers for the Environment (SAVE) honored them with SAVE’s first Environmental COLLEGE BOUND: Left to right: Valedictorian Evelyne Meas, Class President Maria Silva and Salutatorian Zenera Shahu have huge plans of furthering their education after they graduate tonight at Christie Serino Jr. Memorial Stadium. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) Recognition Award. Shahu was born in Albania and moved to Massachusetts when she was three. She and her family members have been residents of Saugus since she was nine. “We’re a tight-knit group,” Shahu said of this year’s graduating class. “We’ve known each other since we were very young. We’re close and look out for one another,” she said. She’s also a committee chair of the National Honor Society. Overall, 117 Saugus High School seniors – 71.3 percent of this year’s graduating class – have plans for attending two or four-year institutions. About 51 percent of the college-bound students in the class (60 students) will be first-generation college students, according to statistics provided by Saugus Public Schools. There will be 164 Saugus High School students receiving diplomas during graduation ceremonies set for 6 p.m. at Christie Serino Jr. Memorial Stadium. Here’s a breakdown of where the Saugus High School Class of 2026 will be headed after spending their final hours together: Four-Year Colleges and Universities – 87 (53 percent) Two-Year Colleges and Universities — 30 (18.3 percent) Other Post Secondary Education (Vocational/Job Corps/ Career Institutes/Prep School) – 18 (11 percent) Plans to further their education – 135 (82 percent) Employment – 19 (11.6 percent) Vocational/Career Institutes – 18 (11 percent) Other/Year Off/Undecided – 9 (5.5 percent) Military – 1 (.6 percent) Four-Year Public Colleges/ Universities – 41 (25 percent) Two-Year Public Colleges – 30 (18.3 percent) Four-Year Private Colleges/ Universities – 46 (28 percent) Spring is Here! 10 Everett Ave., Everett 617-389-3839 Celebrating 67 Years in Business! n Roofing fng
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 5, 2026 Page 5 Young Sachems show bright future despite tournament exits ~ SHS Sachems Spring Sports roundup ~ By Dom Nicastro T he fi nal scores did not go the way Saugus hoped, but when the dust settled on the spring season, there was still plenty to celebrate. Softball extended its remarkable streak of tournament appearances to 10 consecutive seasons despite fi elding one of the youngest rosters in program history. Both lacrosse programs reached the state tournament, with the boys qualifying for the postseason for the fi rst time in more than a decade. SOFTBALL’S POSTSEASON RUN ENDS, BUT FUTURE REMAINS BRIGHT Saugus softball’s season came to an end in the Division 3 state tournament with an 11-0 loss to Greater Lowell Tech, but head coach Steve Almquist made it clear the fi - nal score did not define the season. “I could not have been any happier with how the season went,” Almquist said. The Sachems fi nished 10-11 and reached the tournament despite entering the season with one of the youngest rosters Almquist has coached. “We lost a ton of talent from last year’s team which posted 12 wins, so going into this season I wasn’t sure if we would even win three games let alone 10,” he said. Against Greater Lowell Tech, Saugus battled early. Angie Dow collected a second-inning bunt single, one of four hits the Sachems managed on the day. Alannah Duong, Sofi a McCarrier and senior captain Maria Silva also recorded hits. Silva’s hit proved especially meaningful. In the top of the seventh inning, she lined a single to right-center fi eld in what became the final at-bat of her high school career. “What a memory and a fi tting way to cap off a great high school career,” Almquist said. “The kids were so pumped for her when she got that hit.” McCarrier absorbed the loss but pitched better than the fi - nal score indicated. The freshman worked six innings, allowing 11 runs, though only three were earned. Almquist pointed to a rough third inning in which Greater Lowell Tech scored seven runs, six of them after a missed double-play opportunity extended the frame. “In these tournament games, especially against better competition, you need to pretty much play a clean game,” Almquist said. Still, the coach remained focused on the bigger picture. “I don’t think people realize how diffi cult it is to qualify for the State Tournament, especially playing in one of the tougher conferences in the area,” he said. “To do it 10 years in a row is really something special.” With McCarrier, eighth graders Jenna O’Donnell, Hannah Strout and Aubrey Demonte, along with numerous other underclassmen returning, the future appears promising. “I’m hoping the experience gained from this season and having that year under their belt will pay dividends for our underclassmen,” Almquist said. BOYS LACROSSE REACHES PLAYOFFS FOR FIRST TIME IN MORE THAN A DECADE The Saugus boys lacrosse team may have seen its season end with a 20-2 preliminary-round loss to St. Mary’s, but fi rst-year head coach Clint Arsenault believes the program took a major step forward. The Sachems finished 8-8 and reached the state tournament for the fi rst time in more than 10 years. “It was the fi rst time that the Saugus lacrosse boys have made it to the playoff s in over a decade,” Arsenault said. “I have to give the boys a lot of credit for how hard they worked.” The season was built on perseverance. Despite often playing with little or no bench, Saugus battled through adversity and steadily improved throughout the spring. ROUNDUP | SEE PAGE 12 “WE’RE STILL HERE!” Since 1947 MALDEN AUTO BODY Book online: Maldenauto.com 49 Robin St., Everett, MA 617-389-3030 * Maldenab@yahoo.com Over 79 years of exceptional service! Massone Family Owned & Operated Checking that pays you $20 a month. It’s easy: Open a checking account and each month maintain an average balance of $5,000, make $1,500 in direct deposits, and complete three transactions of any kind.* *New checking account customers only.
Page 6 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 5, 2026 SMHS Track team thank parents, honor student-athletes at team banquet T he Sa u gu s Middle/High School Sa - chems Co-Ed Track and Field t eam thanked parents for their tireless effor ts and students for a successful season during their banquet at Prince Pizza on Wednesday night. (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) 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 J& • Reliable Mowing Service • Spring & Fall Cleanups • Mulch & Edging • Sod or Seed Lawns • Shrub Planting & Trimming • Water & Sewer Repairs Joe Pierotti, Jr. Back row, shown from left to right, are: Assistant Coach Kevin Martin, Assistant Coach Anthony Abbatessa congratulated award winners Paxton Ferraro, Kelly Bui, Mateus Goncalves, Joryel Martinez, Soraya Mathieu, Head Coach Joseph Alba, Assistant Coach Hannah Phelan and Assistant Coach Ken Okoye. Kneeling, shown from left to right, are: Leo Exantus, Aris Emmanuel, and Joana Bocaj. 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 Back row, shown from left to right, are: Assistant Coach Ken Okoye, Assistant Coach Kevin Martin, Assistant Coach Anthony Abbatessa, with this season’s captains Kyleigh Arwine, Peyton DiBiasio, Victoria Silva Santos, Incoming Captain Destiny Okoye, Jaymee McPhee, Head Coach Joseph Alba, and Assistant Coach Hannah Phelan. Kneeling, shown from left to right, are: Brody Whittredge, Justin Bremberg, Kalebb Mathieu, Kason Imbrogna, Incoming Captain Alex Modini, and Incoming Captain Dawin Camilo. TRACK TEAM | SEE PAGE 10 Designing and Constructing Ideas that are “Grounds for Success” Landscaping Back row, shown from left to right, are: Assistant Coach Ken Okoye, Assistant Coach Kevin Martin, Assistant Coach Anthony Abbatessa, with this season’s captains Kyleigh Arwine, Peyton DiBiasio, Victoria Silva Santos, Jaymee McPhee, Head Coach Joseph Alba, and Assistant Coach Hannah Phelan. Kneeling, shown from left to right, are: Brody Whittredge, Justin Bremberg, Kalebb Mathieu and Kason Imbrogna. Bottom row, shown from left to right, are: Matt Polanco, Liam Guzman, Eli Emmanuel, Matthew Bell, Cole Gosselin, Aubrey Viciere, Milah Soung, Giovanna Sao Felix, and Payton Laurent. Second row, shown from left: Coach Kevin Martin, Jerry Bien-aime, Soraya Mathieu, Kelly Bui, Sarah Mudafort, Ava Lacasse, William Arinello, Noah Gosselin, Jaymee McPhee, Joana Bocaj, Zineb Ouballa, Mellany Cruz, Sammeeha Mahmud, and Coach Hannah Phelan. Third row, shown from left: Coach Kenny Okoye, Coach Anthony Abbatessa, Peyton DiBiasio, Kylie Arwine, Victoria Silva Santos, Jake Xavier, Brody Whittredge, Jose Dos Santos, Kason Imbrogna, Justin Bremberg, Kaelebb Mathieu, Paxton Ferraro, Isabella Raymond, Aris Emmanuel, and Coach Joe Alba. Top row, shown from left: Destiny Okoye, Joryel Martinez, Mateus Goncalves, Leo Exantus, Alex Modini, and Dawin Camilo.
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 5, 2026 Page 7 Saugus High Sachem Student-Athletes Commit to Colleges S augus High School senior varsity athletes signed on to attend prestigious colleges on Tuesday inside the high school auditorium. (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) Shown from left to right: mother Angela Perez, senior David Perez III, sister Milly Perez, football coach Greg Bluestein and father David Perez Jr. Perez plans to study cybersecurity at UMass Dartmouth to become an engineer. P e yton DIBiasio, a 1,700-point scorer/number 1 seed/State Champion, plans to run track at Stonehill College in Easton, Mass., which is a Division 1 school. Shown from left to right: mother Jayne Mabee, cousin Aaliyah LeBlanc, senior Alyson Mabee, brother Michael Mabee and lacrosse coach Amanda Jacquiei. The All-Conference player, who achieved her 100th career goal, plans to attend the University of Hartford. Justin Bremberg, a two-time NEC champion/sectional winner, committed to attend Springfield College in Massachusetts to wrestle at the Division III school and study finance. Shown from left to right: aunt Janette Ferrara, sister Jessica Bremberg, mother Jennifer Bremberg, senior Justin Bremberg, father Eric Bremberg and Wrestling Coach Wayne Moda. Justin, a two-time NEC champion/sectional winner, plans to attend Springfield College in Massachusetts to wrestle at the Division III school and study finance. Senior Victoria Silva Santos committed to attend Gordon College in Wenham, Mass., to run track and field, especially the high jump, to become a therapist. Huey Josama was joined by his brother Benjamin and his basketball coach Joseph Bertrand. He plans to play basketball at Eastern Connecticut State University. David Perez signed on to UMass Dartmouth, joined by mother Angela Perez, father David Perez and sister Milly Perez. Shown from left to right: grandmother Marlene, senior Victoria Silva Santos, mother Kitman Silva Santos and track and field coach Joseph Alba. Santos plans to attend Gordon College in Wenham, Mass., to run track and field, especially the high jump, to become a therapist. Grandparents Bernie Doherty, Patricia Doherty, Bonnie Soroko and Alan Soroko joined senior Nathan Soroko, mother Mary Kate Soroko, brother Cameron Soroko and sister Caitlin Soroko. Soroko plans to study business at Colby-Sawyer College, where he will play baseball at the Division III school. All-Conference Brayden Crawford (center) scored 44 hits. From left to right: Baseball Coach Michael Mabee, his mother Gina, his father Joshua and his Baseball Coach Joseph Bertrand. Crawford plans to play baseball at Colby College in Waterville, Maine, which is Division III. All-Conference Brayden Crawford, who scored 44 hits, signed on to play baseball at Colby College in Waterville, Maine, which is in Division III. Nathan Soroko signed up to study business at Colby-Sawyer College, a Division III school, where he will play baseball. Shown from left to right: grandfather Richard DiBiasio, Basketball Coach Taylor Bogdanski, mother Jennifer, cousin Neeysa Denning, grandmother Sheila Cali, senior Peyton DiBiasio, grandmother MaryAnn Puccino, brother Ronald Jr., father Ronald and track coach Joseph Alba. Peyton, the 1,700-point scorer/ number 1 seed/State Champion, plans to run track at Stonehill College in Easton, Mass., which is a Division 1 school. Shown from left to right: mother Jayne Mabee, cousin Aaliyah LeBlanc, senior Alyson Mabee and brother Michael Mabee. Alyson, an All-Conference player who achieved her 100th career goal, committed to the University of Hartford. Huey Josama signed on to play basketball at Eastern Connecticut State University and was joined by his brother, Benjamin.
Page 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 5, 2026 The Sounds of Saugus By Mark E. Vogler Good morning, Saugus Nothing like a good walk several times a week, for the fun of it and for your health. If you are already an avid walker or somebody who is thinking about reactivating a dormant walking program or just starting one, here’s an event worth checking out. Here’s a recent press release issued by Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree’s Office: “The Town of Saugus welcomes residents to participate in the first-ever Saugus Wellness Collective Walk on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 9 a.m. at Breakheart Reservation. “The Saugus Wellness Collective organized this walk to promote healthy lifestyle choices while fostering a sense of community and support. The walk will utilize the Healthy Heart Trail at Breakheart Reservation, which is a two-mile loop that has been recognized by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation as a premier route beneficial to cardiovascular health. “Highlights of the Saugus Wellness Collective Walk include: “Free T-shirts for registered walkers “Light refreshments “Live entertainment featuring Saugus Health Director John Fralick “To secure your spot and a free T-shirt (while supplies last), please preregister for the walk to a story and/or a photo. Countdown till Saugus celebrates America’s 250th Here’s an updated report HONORING S/SGT DEFRANZO: Saugus VFW Post 2346 will again observe an annual ceremony at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 10, in memory of the town’s only Medal of Honor recipient, Staff Sergeant Arthur F. DeFranzo, at the DeFranzo memorial. Please see “Ther Sounds of Saugus” for details. (Saugus Advocate file photo by Mark E. Vogler) by emailing Karli Brazis at kbra“The Saugus Wellness Colzis@saugus-ma.gov. “The walk for wellness at Breakheart Reservation is intended as a signature kickoff event for the Saugus Wellness Collective. The Saugus Wellness Collective aims to raise awareness for mental health and substance use disorders, as well as to provide resources for residents seeking assistance in their recovery efforts. lective is excited about partnering with the community in the future.” Saugus United Parish Food Pantry The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry will be open today (Friday, June 5) from 9:3011 a.m. at 50 Essex St. in the basement of Cliftondale Congregational Church. The food pantry welcomes all neighbors facing food insecurity on Friday mornings. Volunteers are also welcome. Please call the Food Pantry Office at 781-233-2663 or go to the website (cliftondalecc.org) for details. This week’s “Shout Outs” We received a nomination A CURTAIN CALL: Young actors from the Belmonte STEAM Academy took a bow after completing a recent production of “The Wizard of Oz.” Please see this week’s “Shout Out.” (Photo Courtesy of Vanessa Dellheim) from Vanessa Dellheim: “I wanted to send a shoutout to the Belmonte STEAM academy after school enrichment program. They just completed a production of the wizard of OZ that was truly spectacular! Thank you to Bridgette Vaudo, Bethany Gravel and Amelia Kracik.” A “Shout Out” from the Editor: To the 164 members of the Saugus High School Class of 2026 who will be receiving their diplomas at Christie Serino Jr. Memorial Stadium tonight. Hats off to this year’s graduates and the best of luck to each of you individually as you pursue your future endeavors and dreams. May you be good citizens and contribute to the betterment of your community, whether it be Saugus or any other place you call home. Additional “Shout Outs” to the parents, faculty members, High School staff, school administration, tutors, mentors, friends, relatives and anyone else who played a role in helping to shape the careers of these young men and women who will assemble for the final time together tonight. 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 from the Saugus 250th Celebration Committee: The Saugus 250th Celebration Committee is putting some of the final touches on the event. We have started to hear from precincts that will be submitting a patriotic decorative truck and hope to continue to hear from more in the next week or two! The committee will be doing a spot with SCTV that will have a lot of information on the event itself, so watch out for it! Again, Saugus has a rich history in its role in the Revolutionary War. We have a very hardworking committee; however, we need volunteers for the event! If you can help out on the 4th, overseeing children’s games, serving food, etc., let us know. America’s 250th Celebration is just five weeks away! It will be observed locally at the Saugus Iron Works, Saturday, July 4th, noon to 4 p.m. There will be speeches by Parson Roby, General George Washington and reenactment of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. There will be entertainment, children’s games played back in the 1700s and an old-fashioned community get-together and BBQ! We are looking forward to the 10 precincts entering a patriotic decorated vehicle! Join us for a fun-filled historical event celebrating our Founding Fathers who created our country’s democratic form of government. The time is coming up quickly, and we heard from Precincts 2 and 4 on submitting a vehicle. We’d like to hear from the other eight precincts on submitting a patriotic decorated vehicle. If you are going to submit one, please let us know no later than June 20. Several of our volunteers did an informational spot on SCTV for the celebration; it was great and we can’t wait for everyone to see it. Thank you, John, Michelle and Maureen! If you want more information or have questions, email ccriTHE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 9
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 5, 2026 Page 9 SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 8 ley@comcast.net. June 6 Blood Drive at Legion Hall Saugus American Legion Post 210 is hosting its Memorial Blood Drive tomorrow (Saturday, June 6) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cpl. Scott J. Procopio & Capt. William Shoemaker American Legion Post Hall at 44 Taylor St. Please call the Red Cross (1-800-733-2767) to schedule an appointment. Touch A Truck on Sunday The Blessed Sacrament Church at 14 Summer St. will be hosting a Touch A Truck Event on June 7 from 2 to 5 p.m. Tiger Institute who will be doing a karate demonstration. There will also be a police K9 demonstration. There will be all sorts of trucks and vehicles for kids to touch and check out. There will be raffles, food and beverages. All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society. This will mark the seventh year for Moms Cancer Fighting Angels’ involvement in the event. Annual S/Sgt. DeFranzo observance Wednesday A small group will gather at the Staff Sergeant Arthur F. DeFranzo VFW Post 2346 at 10 a.m. next Wednesday (June 10) for the Post’s annual observance in honor and memory of Sgt. DeFranzo, who died of wounds he received on June 10, 1944, in a gallant display of heroism that led to his receiving the Medal of Honor posthumously. In recent years, members of the DeFranzo family have attended the ceremony, which takes place in front of the DeFranzo Memorial near the Post at 190C Main St. People then adjourn to the Post for a collation. All are welcome. Saugus Democrats meet June 10 The next meeting of the Saugus Democratic Town Committee is Wednesday, June 10, at 7 p.m. at SaugusTV offices at 30 Main St. Parking is in front of the building or across the street. Entrance is via the side door. Elks to hold Narcan program June 15 The Saugus-Everett Elks Drug Awareness Committee is holding a Narcan presentation at the Saugus Senior Center on Monday, June 15, at 10 a.m., at 466 Central St. in Saugus. This is an hour-long free event. Drug overdose is the leading cause of death in the United States. Witness the benefits of Narcan and its many uses. Samples will be shown to all present. Don’t miss out on this event. Light refreshments will be served. Strawberry Festival June 20 A note from Laura Eisener: The Saugus Historical Society Strawberry Festival and Saugus Garden Club Plant Sale will be Saturday, June 20. Strawberry Shortcakes, hot dogs, soda and chips will be available at the Legion Hall from 10-2, and the Garden Club as well as several craft vendors will be set up on the Roby School Lawn as usual. There are some new vendors planning to come in addition to several vendors who have been there for several years in a row. The festival is rain or shine! Hope to see you there for this popular town tradition. Home Base on June 20 On Saturday, June 20, Team Marshalls4Vets and Staff Sergeant Arthur F. DeFranzo VFW Post 2346 will be cosponsoring a Fundraiser Party Benefiting Home Base from 7 p.m.-1 a.m. at the Post. Tickets will be $50 per person with a limit of 100. Catering will be provided by Kowloon, Texas Roadhouse and other local restaurants. There will be prize Raffles, 50/50 raffle & more. Home Base, a Red Sox Foundation and Massachusetts General Hospital Program, is dedicated to healing the invisible wounds for Veterans, Service Members and their Families through world-class clinical care, wellness, education and research. To donate online: https://runtohomebase. org/support/#marshalls4vets. KOC Crafts Fair Aug. 8 The Saugus Knights of Columbus No. 1829 will host a crafts fair Saturday, Aug. 8, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 57 Appleton St. in Saugus: baked goods, candles, handmade textiles, jewelry, wood carving and much more. Visitors can also enjoy making their own sundaes, or popcorn, hot dogs, hot coffee and donuts and raffles. SAVE THE DATE! Saugus will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on Saturday, July 4th, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site. Please read “The Sounds of Saugus” for more details. (Courtesy graphic to The Saugus Advocate) Upcoming events at the Saugus Public Library Here are a few interesting programs worth checking out at the Saugus Public Library: Laura Eisener offered this report: “Natural World”, a beautiful exhibit of photographs by Jordan Lavine, graces the walls of the reading room at Saugus Public Library. Iconic New England scenes include the forge and slitting mill at Saugus Ironworks, the old stone church in Boylston, MA with the US flag reflected in the water, views of Acadia National Park in Maine, and many others taken throughout the seasons. Bird lovers will enjoy a bald eagle seeming to howl at the moon, a camouflaged owl in a tree trunk, and many more. Other subjects include pollinators among blossoms and other wildlife. This display will run through June - be sure to get over and see it! · See Jonah Knight perform a magic show and facilitate a Dungeons and Dragons game! Please join us on Monday, June 22, at 4 p.m. in the Brooks Room. Suitable for fifth grade and up; registration required. SAVE Annual Meeting June 16 Saugus Action Volunteers for the Environment will hold its 53rd Annual Meeting & Dinner on June 16 at 7 p.m. at Magia’s Restaurant & Bar (126 Newbury St., Danvers). A social time will be held at 6:30 p.m. The program will feature a brief business meeting, stewardship award, guest speaker, raffles and an update on SAVE activities. The guest speaker will be Kirstie Pecci, Executive Director of Just Zero, a national zero waste, nonprofit organization, who will be presenting on the topic “Massachusetts: Time to Change our Solid Waste System.” The Dinner Buffet will include fresh garden salad, penne with pomodoro, baked haddock, chicken parmigiana, vegetable, rolls and butter, dessert, coffee and tea. Free parking is available on-site, and the facility is ADA accessible. SAVE was founded in 1973 to promote a better quality of life in Saugus through environmental concern and action. Summer Track Camp 2026 coming The Saugus Sachems Youth Summer Track Camp 2026 is about a month away. This vibrant program, now in its 21st year, is where student athletes from a wide range of ages come together to listen well, work hard and have fun! They will be guided by veteran coach Christopher 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. Cost: $350 first year, returning $300, $250 if 4th+ year in summer program; includes pasta dinner, t-shirt, uniform and entry into Summer Showdown. Subtract $50 from cost if returning with uniform. For any questions, further information or to register, please contact Coach Christopher Tarantino (Coach T) at 781854-6778 or christophertarantino24@gmail.com. Here’s what parents and participants need to know: Who: five to 18 years old. Where: Belmonte Track. When: 6-8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. June 22–26 – final registration week/returning athlete training. June 29–July 3 – first formal week. July 6–9 – second formal week. July 10 – 10 a.m.-12 p.m. – makeup practice (if necessary). July 10 – 6 p.m. – Pasta Dinner at Prince Pizzeria. July 11 – 9 a.m. – in-house meet at Serino Stadium. July 13 – 16 – retrain week. July 18 – Summer Showdown in Cranston, R.I. July 22 – wrap up.
Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 5, 2026 Saugus Gardens in the Spring Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable By Laura Eisener P agoda dogwood or alternate leaved dogwood (Cornus alternifolia) is a dogwood tree native to the northeast U.S. that is less wellknown than flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) or Kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa). Unlike these two species, it does not have the showy pink or white bracts that accompany the flower clusters on these other two. However, it does have some decorative characteristics of its own. Its actual flowers are white, and while the individual blossoms are small the abundant cymes are usually about 2 ½ inches across, which makes them quite noticeable. The twigs have a reddish cast, which will remind you of several other dogwood species: the shrubby red twig dogwoods, such as red osier dogwood (Cornus sericea) and Tatarian dogwood (Cornus alba or C.tatarica). While the branches of pagoda dogwood are a little more subtly colored, this is a factor that does tend to stand out in the leafless season. Its leaf arrangement is a bit of an anomaly in the genus, as most dogwood species have opposite bud arrangements. The common name Pagoda Dogwood comes from the horizontal branching form, which to some resemble the wide roofs of a pagoda. The natural range of this tree is most of the eastern half of the United States from Maine to Florida, and several Canadian provinces as well. The flowers supBirthdays are special at the Senior Center (Editor’s Note: Saugus Senior Center Director Laurie Davis submitted the following article.) T A great blue heron checks out the fishing at the Saugus River — viewed from the Iron Works Nature Trail. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) port pollinators and the small fruits support many birds, including cardinals and robins, and the horizontal branch arrangement makes good nesting sites. In fall, the leaves turn a nice burgundy color. It is surprising that this tree is not more often planted. I have received several questions this week about the white flowering tree black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) blooming in many locations in Saugus, especially along Route 1. There is also a large specimen near the corner of the ITAM parking lot and in the grassy area behind Walnut Place. If you get a close look at the flowers, you might correctly guess that this is a member of the pea family (Fabaceae). Like some other members of this family, nodules on its roots are able to fix nitrogen in the soil, so it can grow in very poor soil without needing fertilizer. This has enabled it to naturalize in many places outMAY BIRTHDAYS: The Saugus Senior Center recognized 27 residents who celebrated their birthdays collectively at the Senior Center last month. Pictured left to right: Front row: Dottie Bockus, Rose Cosgrove, Louise Donatio, Lorraine Bernardi, Mary Macabee, Pam Goodwin, Kathy Mulligan, Camielle Brackett, Miriam Ciamciulli, Peggy Dellelo, Hugh Ravigini, Anna Amoroso, Mary Valliere and Mary Dunlop; second row: Paula Mazzio, Roberta Levy, Mike Boudreau, Linda Mactaggart, Jim Lazurek, Betty Lowe, Beverly Cleathero, Janet DeSimone, Cheryl Finnerty, Tammy Watts, Ben Lagman, Joseph Catalano and Ed Barber. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) TRACK TEAM | FROM PAGE 6 Fragrant black locus t blossoms in the parking area of the Italian American Club in East Saugus. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) side its natural range, and it has been declared invasive in Massachusetts, where it is native, as well as in some locations in Europe and Africa, where it was once deliberately planted. The locust flowers are very fragrant and attract many pollinators. Later the seeds, produced in small pods, provide food for birds and wildlife. Its wood is known for being very strong and rot resistant, popular for fence posts and other outdoor applications. Formerly planted on steep slopes for erosion control, because of its rapid growth and ability to reproduce by suckering, or sprouting at the base of trees, it is no longer legal for nurseries to sell it. At this time of year, it is easy to recognize because of the flowCymes of flowers on pagoda dogwood are among the charms of this lesser-known native tree. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) GARDENS | SEE PAGE 12 he Saugus Senior Center celebrated its monthly birthday celebration on Friday, May 29, 2026, with 27 celebrants! This special event was generously sponsored by Ellen Palleschi, in loving memory of her husband, Bob Palleshi. We extend our sincere thanks to Ellen for her kindness and generosity, which helped make the day extra special for everyone who attended and enjoyed the celebration. The Senior Center likes to recognize a Senior’s birthday on the last Friday of the month with a collective celebration. Each birthday recipient receives a free pizza lunch, cake, ice cream and a souvenir group photo. If anyone would like to sponsor a birthday in honor of someone special, please stop by the office and let us know. The Rookie Of The Year Award is given to track members who have worked the hardest. They went to Aris Emmanuel and Leo Exantus, at right, during Wednesday’s Saugus Middle High School Varsity/Middle School Co-Educational Track and Field team banquet at Prince Pizza. The Most Improved Award is given to track members went above and beyond was presented to Mateus Goncavles and Kelly Bui, right. The Sachem Awards are given to the Most Valuable Player with the top score. Freshman Soraya Mathieu scored 108 points while Paxton Ferraro scored 76 points. TRACK TEAM | SEE PAGE 11
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 5, 2026 Page 11 REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS Copyrighted material previously published in Banker & Tradesman/The Commercial Record, a weekly trade newspaper. It is reprinted with permission from the publisher, The Warren Group. For a searchable database of real estate transactions and property information visit: www.thewarrengroup.com. BUYER1 Atteberry, Justin Capellan, Helen Rojas Derosa, Anthony Gomez-Ramirez, Nancy M Jimenez, Yeimy Shirley King-Doonan, Elizabeth K Doonan, Gregory Mujo, Blanca Ivon TRACK TEAM | FROM PAGE 10 Michael J. Murphy O Assistant Coaches, shown from left to right, are: Ken Okoye, Kevin Martin, Anthony Abbatessa, Hannah Phelan and Head Coach Joseph Alba. f Saugus, died on Wednesday, May 27th at the age of 75. Born and raised in Cambridge, Mr. Murphy was the son of the late John J. and Ruth (Mearn) Murphy. A resident of Saugus for 48 years, Michael was a member of Local 369 Utility Workers Union. He was a U.S. Navy Vietnam Veteran. Michael loved the outdoors and enjoyed, hunting, fishing and shooting. Mr. Murphy is survived by his three children, Sean Murphy Colindres, Fabio J BUYER2 Selters, Lindsay SELLER1 Brendel, Clay Cowen Perez, Arnoldo Giordano, Matthew F R & J Investments LLC Lockyer, David Slater T Ftcllc Lc Avola, Doreen M SELLER2 Escobar, Wendy Prez ADDRESS 27 Garfield Ave 360 Lincoln Ave 141 Essex St #D6 24 Palmetto St 12 Riverside Ct 9 Avon St 19 Laurel St CITY Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus OBITUARY and his wife Lisa of Tewksbury, Ryan Murphy and his wife Kim of Revere, Brittany Grasso and her husband Thomas of Saugus and their mother, Denise (Harvey) Murphy; six grandchildren, Kyla, Hailey, Shealan, Jameson, Skylar and Keira; and one sister, Karen O’Brien of NJ. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation in the Bisbee-Porcella Funeral Home, 549 Lincoln Ave., Saugus on Friday, June 5th from 4-8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Michael’s memory may be made to the Vietnam Veterans of America at vva.org. - LEGAL NOTICE - KEYSTONE WEALTH MANAGEMENT INNOVATIVE FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS FINANCUL PLANNING • RETIREMENT PLANNING • MEDICAID PLANNING JOSEPH D. CATALDO, CPA, CIA, PFS, CFP®, MST, ESQUIRE 617-387-3793 369 BROADWAY, EVERETT, MA 02149 COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS THE TRIAL COURT PROBATE AND FAMILY COURT Docket No. ES25P3381EA Essex Division Estate of: EVELYN T. LANDRY Date of Death: September 21, 2025 INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE To all persons interested in the above captioned estate, by Petition of Petitioner Cheryl A. Landry of Mendon, MA a Will has been admitted to informal probate. Cheryl A. Landry of Mendon, MA has been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve without surety on the bond. The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court. Inventory and accounts are not required to be filed with the Court, but interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the Court to institute formal proceedings and to obtain orders terminating or restricting the powers of Personal Representatives appointed under formal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner. June 05, 2026 DATE 05.15.26 05.15.26 05.12.26 05.11.26 05.11.26 05.15.26 05.11.26 PRICE 741000 842000 380000 1100000 565000 842033 905000
Page 12 ROUNDAP | FROM PAGE 5 “The boys never gave up and always gave it all they had,” Arsenault said. Leading scorer Gavin Diozzi, an eighth grader, emerged as one of the team’s top offensive threats. Fellow eighth grader Zack Modini also played a major role, while senior Hunter Arsenault finished among the team’s leading scorers. Arsenault also praised sophomores James Caruso and John Morello, along with eighth graders Diozzi, Modini, Billy Lauziere and Lukkas Sullivan, as key building blocks for the future. The coach reserved special praise for graduating seniors Hunter Arsenault, Larry Barrows and Koby Jette. THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 5, 2026 The Sachems finished with “Our three graduating seniors were great contributors to the season and will be missed next year,” he said. With assistant coaches JP Walsh, Sean Fox and Brandon Allen helping guide the program, Arsenault believes the future is bright. “The future of Saugus lacrosse is looking good,” he said. GIRLS LACROSSE BUILDS MOMENTUM, EARNS POSTSEASON BERTH The Saugus girls lacrosse team also reached the Division 3 tournament before falling to Essex North Shore, 17-8, in the preliminary round. Carrijo Home Improvement, Inc. General Contractor * Interior & Exterior Carpentry * Kitchen & Bath * Roofs * Painting * Decks * Siding * Licensed & Insured * Free Estimates Carrijohomeimprovement.com Call 781-710-8918 * Saugus, MA a winning record at 10-9 and continued to establish themselves as one of the stronger programs in the area. Head coach Amanda Jacquier said the season was defined by growth. “This group of girls showed tremendous growth, determination and resilience throughout the year,” Jacquier said. One of the turning points came early. After opening the season with a heartbreaking 4-3 loss to Winthrop, the Sachems responded by defeating the Vikings 11-5 in the rematch. “That was when the team truly began to recognize its potential and what it was capable of accomplishing together,” Jacquier said. Offensively, Aly Mabee, Teaghan Arsenault, Mara Faiella, Niki Breton, Maria Garcia and Natalie Justice paced ZERO PERCENT | FROM PAGE 2 had their new meters installed so far, according to Wendy Hatch, the town’s Finance Director and Treasurer/Collector. “I thought the board did the right thing – the proper thing,” Cogliano said in an interview Tuesday night. “The projections are that the new meters are going to be more accurate and a lot of people are going to see an increase in their bills,” he said. Cicolini said he stands by the Humane Removal Service COMMONWEALTH WILDLIFE CONTROL ANIMAL & BIRD REMOVAL INCLUDING RODENTS CALL 617-285-0023 Discount Tree Service 781-269-0914 Professional TREE REMOVAL & Cleanups 24-HOUR SERVICE board’s decision. “Fortunately, we generated some healthy retained earnings that allowed us to do this, and we still have a healthy balance,” Cicolini said. But next year, which will be a town election year, selectmen could be forced to make an unpopular decision of increasing the rate to make up for this year, he said. “The rising costs are scary,” Cicolini said. He noted that the Lynn Water & Sewer Commission assessment increased by 33 percent in the current fiscal year above the budgeted amount, due to larger than expected operating increases. More commission increases are expected in the new fiscal year. “I’m glad we voted ‘Zero’ on the sewer rate increase,” Federico said. “That being said, I don’t want to see Saugus with financial issues next year,” he said. 1 bedroom, 1 bath furnished room for rent. $275. per week rent. Two week deposit plus 1 week rent required. Call: 617-435-9047 - NO TEXT the attack throughout the season. Defensively, Brooke Diaz, Amanda Rezendes, Paige Millea and Sydney Ferreira played key roles helping protect the cage and create stops. The postseason honors reflected that success. Mabee earned All-Conference recognition, while Diaz and Garcia were named league All-Stars. “I am incredibly proud of everything this team accomplished representing Saugus girls lacrosse,” Jacquier said. “I cannot wait to see what the future holds for this program.” GARDENS | FROM PAGE 10 ers. You will also see a variety with pink blossoms in a few places in town, especially around Lynn Fells Parkway. Birds have been gradually returning north in recent months, including the great blue heron (Ardea herodeas). Herons and egrets are regular visitors now to the Saugus River and nearby ponds. They are often viewed wading in the river or perched in trees near the Saugus Iron Works and flying across Route 1 to reach other nearby ponds and waterways. FURNISHED ROOM FOR RENT EVERETT ANYONE CAN SAY THEY CAN FIX IT, ONLY WE GUARANTEE IT...FOR LIFE! • Basement Waterproofi ng • Foundation Repair • Crawl Space Repair SCHEDULE YOUR FREE INSPECTION: (866) 235-9404 * Certain terms and conditions apply. Ask your Foundation Specialist for details. LIC. NO. 202410
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 5, 2026 Page 13 GRADUATION PARTY | FROM PAGE 3 1. On June 5, 1966, prerecorded videos of the Beatles singing “Paperback Writer” and “Rain” were broadcast on what USA show? 2. What two men of Greek myth were famously associated with gold? 3. What song title contains names of June’s birth flowers? 4. On June 6, 1933, Camden (N.J.) DriveIn, the first drive-in movie theater, opened; it was created because a son wanted to help his mother how? 5. How is part of a chicken similar to a ship? 6. June is National Accordion Awareness Month; what is the accordion also called? 7. In what country is the Appian Way, which is on UNESCO’s World Heritage List? 8. On June 7, 1955, “The $64,000 Question” TV game show began; in 195556 it took the #1 spot from what series with a female star? 9. What is the difference between a slam dunk and a dunk shot? 10. How are Art Deco, folk and Hudson River School similar? 11. On June 8, 1949, which was published, Orwell’s “1984” or “Nineteen Eighty-Four”? 12. What winner of the 1973 Battle of the Sexes tennis match graduated from California State University in May 2026? 13. Massachusetts’ state rock, Roxbury puddingstone, is in a memorial at what battlefield? 14. On June 9, 1891, what composer/songwriter of “Begin the Beguine” was born (last name is also a type of beer)? 15. 16. In March, Bear, an Australian dog, retired; he was trained to sniff out what kind of bear? In what sport would you find Amen Corner? 17. On June 10, 2007, “Made in America” aired; it was the finale of what TV series? 18. In what 1878 operetta (a ship name) is “I always voted at my party’s call, / And I never thought of thinking for myself at all”? 19. How are buckle, fool and grunt similar? 20. On June 11, 2026, what global competition starts? ANSWERS American Exterior and Window Corporation Contact us for all of your home improvement projects and necessities. 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Call Eric: (857) 322-2854 For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 781-233-4446 or info@advocatenews.net Frank Berardino MA License 31811 • 24 - Hour Service • Emergency Repairs BERARDINO Plumbing & Heating Residential & Commercial Service Gas Fitting • Drain Service 617.699.9383 Senior Citizen Discount administration of the Saugus Cable TV channel. Attendees included Town Manager Scott Crabtree and many members of town government and local organizations. In the midst of the partying, it turned out that more honors were in store. She received a citation from the Massachusetts State Senate, and a rare citation from Governor Maura Healey and Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll for her achievement. On hand to present these awards were State Representative Sean Reid, who represents the 11th Essex District in the Massachusetts House of Representatives (representing Nahant and part of Lynn) and Brendan P. Crighton, Massachusetts State Senator for the Third Essex District (representing the city of Lynn and the towns of Lynnfield, Marblehead, Nahant, Saugus and Swampscott). APARTMENTS FOR RENT www.mastrocola.com BUDGET SERVICES RUBBISH REMOVAL * Interior-Exterior Demolition Bathroom/Kitchen/Decks, Etc. * All Types of Debris Removed * Pick-up Truck Load of Trash starting at $239. ~ Licensed & Insured ~ Call (978) 494-3443 Clean-Outs! We take and dispose from cellars, attics, garages, yards, etc. Call Robert at: 781-844-0472 We follow Social Distancing Guidelines! 1. The Ed Sullivan Show 2. King Midas and Jason (and the Golden Fleece) 3. “Honeysuckle Rose” (1929) by Thomas “Fats” Waller 4. He wanted her to watch movies in comfortable auto seats instead of movie theater seats. 5. A tender is a support ship and also means a chicken tenderloin. 6. Concertina 7. 8. Italy (It is a Roman road connecting Rome to southeast Italy.) “I Love Lucy” 9. None (Per a dictionary, “slam dunk” began to be used in the 1960s re: Wilt Chamberlain) 10. Types of art 11. The latter; it has also been published with the numeral title. 12. Billie Jean King 13. Gettysburg (A large boulder was brought from Roxbury to honor the “20th Mass. Infantry.”) 14. Cole Porter 15. Koala (Bear helped protect koalas and has a “dogumentary”:“Bear: Koala Hero.”) 16. Golf (three holes at Augusta National Golf Club) 17. “The Sopranos” (Controversially, the final scene ends with silence and a black screen.) 18. “H.M.S. Pinafore, or, The lass that loved a sailor” (in the song “When I Was a Lad”) 19. Names of fruit desserts 20. FIFA World Cup
Page 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 5, 2026 Get your Mortgage with Beyond Financing, Inc. Lower rates @ www.beyondfinancing.com Powered by Finley Concierge Beyond Financing, Inc. Licensed in CA-CT-FL-MA-NH-NC-RI-SC-TX 999 Broadway, Suite 500-N, Saugus-MA 01906 www.BEYONDFINANCING.COM 857.410.1391 NMLS ID: 2394496 IN CA, CT & MA: Mortgage Broker Only, not a Mortgage Lender or Mortgage Correspondent Lender. In FL, NH, NC, RI, SC & TX: Mortgage Broker and Correspondent Lender. Loans are available fairly and equally regardless of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, military status, disability, or ancestry. ~Let our team of experienced REALTORS® assist in all your real estate needs~ TRINITY REAL ESTATE 321 MAIN STREET | SAUGUS, MA | VILLAGE PARK TrinityHomesRE.com L 581 Proctor Ave, Revere, MA 02151 List Price: $1,415,000 Listed by: Annemarie Torcivia Cell: 781.983.5266 Solid brick 4-unit mixed-use investment at 581 Proctor Ave & 233 Washington St featuring 3 residential units and a 2000+ sq ft commercial dance studio with long-term tenant of 39 years. Residential units include two 4-room/2bedroom/1-bath apartments and one 6-room/3-bedroom unit with office or den. Common laundry room. Property currently operating at a strong 9% cap rate. All tenants are Section 8 with reliable income stream. All Delead Certificates in hand. Excellent cash flow, durable construction, and exceptional tenant stability make this a true investor opportunity. Dance studio leased till 2029. 23 Main Street, Unit 2, Topsfield, MA 01983 List Price: $450,000 Listed by: Lori Johnson Cell: 781.718.7409 Sun-splashed recently renovated 2-bedroom condo located on the second floor of a charming two-family home. This bright and inviting unit features an abundance of windows, hardwood flooring, LED recessed lighting, central air and in-unit laundry. The updated kitchen offers quartz countertops, new appliances, and durable laminate flooring, seamlessly opens to a spacious living area—perfect for entertaining, versatile bonus space ideal for a home office plus future expansion potential with access to a walk-up third level waiting for your ideas. Additional highlights include two deeded off-street parking spaces and a fenced backyard for added privacy and outdoor enjoyment. Ideally situated in historic downtown Topsfield, this home offers convenient access to local shops, dining, and all the charm the area has to offer.ts include in-unit laundry in the basement & two-car parking 781.231.9800 ~Let our team of experienced REALTORS® assist in all your real estate needs~ Trinity Real Estate supports Hope Worldwide and will be collecting art supplies for our “Colors of Hope” campaign! HOPE Worldwide helps children from underserved communities build confidence, creativity, and connection through supportive programs like Campamento Invencible, where kids grow through self-esteem building We will be collecting: Pencils Paint sets Paint brushes Coloring books Crayons Any small art supplies Drop-off times at our office are Monday through Friday, 10AM to 1PM, excluding holidays. The collection period will run through June 9 . th Please contact Lucia Ponte for more information at 781-883-8130 or LuicaPonte2014@yahoo.com “Treating your home as our own and each client like family” FOR SALE FOR SALE
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 5, 2026 Page 15
Page 16 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 5, 2026 SOMERVILLE - $799,000 Charming 8 room, 3 bedroom Cottage offers 1 ½ baths, eat-in kitchen, detached garage. LYNN - NEW PRICE!! $499,900 RARE opportunity to own mixed use building! Large store front on 1st floor, spacious 3–4-bedroom residential unit on 2nd floor, garage, off st. parking. CHELSEA - $415,000 Millcreek Condos offers this 2 bdrm , 2 bath unit, new flooring and light fixtures, freshly painted, pool, gym on site. SAUGUS - $689,000 - 1st AD Iron Works Neighborhood offers this 7 rm, 3 bdrm, Cape Cod style home, 1 ½ baths, hardwood flooring, inground pool. Great Home – Great Location! LYNNFIELD - $789,900 - 1st AD 7 rooms, 3 bedroom Cape offers 1 full & 2 half baths, granite kitchen, 2 fireplaces, sunroom, close to major routes and Market Street. COMMONMOVES.COM 335 CENTRAL STREET, SAUGUS, MA / (781) 233-7300 LYNN - $639,000 Veterans Village offers this wonderful 3-bedroom home, fireplace living room, eat-in kitchen, 1st floor family room addition, open deck and covered deck. LYNNFIELD - $2,149,999 UNIQUE Mixed-use property, 4-bedroom home plus rear building, great corner lot with ample off-street parking, many possibilities! Call for details.
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