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SAUGUS Congratulations Saugus High School Class of 2025! g ADOCATE D Vol. 27, No.24 DV CAT AT -FREE- www.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday HEAD OF THE CLASS W A SHINING SCHOLASTIC STAR: Victor Phan, 18, the Valedictorian – the top-ranked student in the Saugus High School Class of 2025 – was among 176 students receiving diplomas at the school’s 154th Commencement Exercises last Friday. He plans to attend the University of Massachusetts Lowell in the fall to study Electrical Engineering. Please see inside for his speech, other commencement addresses and more photos and graduation coverage. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) A E 781-233-4446 Friday, June 13, 2025 A chance to learn about the pot business The public gets to ask the company questions about its proposed retail marijuana business at Monday meeting By Mark E. Vogler hat kind of impact will a future retail pot business proposed for Route 1 South have on Saugus? Representatives from Sanctuary Medicinals, one of two companies licensed to run an adult-use marijuana business in Saugus, will be holding a Community Outreach meeting on Monday (June 16) to answer that question and others they fi eld from the public. The meeting is set for 5:30 p.m. at the Saugus Public Library (295 Central St.) to discuss the facility that Sanctuary Medicinals plans to build at 181 Broadway – site of the former Ninety-Nine Restaurant & Pub that closed in the spring of 2022. “Interested members of the community will have the opportunity to ask questions and receive answers from company representatives about the proposed facility and operations,” according to an ad published last month in The Saugus Advocate. “Questions can be submitPOT BUSINESS | SEE PAGE 2 Mid-grade Regular 2.79 24 $3.37 24 Over 47 Years of Excellence! 1978 - 2025 Full Service ULS $2.73 Order online at angelosoil.com FLEET CARD Check Out Our LOW PRICES!

Page 2 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 2025 Saugus High School graduation The Superintendent’s graduation speech By Michael Hashem W elcome everyone to this year’s graduation ceremony for our Class of 2025 Saugus High School graduates. It was a mere 40 years ago I graduated from Saugus High School. It was at Stackpole Field, on a Sunday, early afternoon, sunny, humid and 85 degrees, but in most ways it was the same. We had numerous speeches, many recognitions of achievement, the band playing, and nearly 400 students getting their diplomas. The ceremony took probably around two hours, but for the 17-year-old me, it seemed more like six hours. That said, I didn’t and you don’t want to listen to your superintendent ramble on about the past, present, or future. My goal today is to leave you with some important words of advice. Every year, I try to be profound or profess some sort of great wisdom, but it never seems to go exactly as planned. Five years ago the students were sitting 10 feet apart, while another year we had to make a mad dash to get to the gym to finish graduation in the midst of a fast moving thunderstorm. Nothing is ever typLawrence 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 ical or easy, but that doesn’t matter because, as you will see soon, life always throws curveballs, no matter how hard you prepare. In my introduction to the staff this year, I used the story about the bear climbing over the mountain only to find another mountain, to describe the upcoming school year. I will carry that metaphor along today, by pointing out that you are all that bear climbing over the mountain. You have reached a peak, but not the ultimate summit. Like many mountains, it is a false summit that you cannot see until you reach higher ground. High school graduation is a tremendous accomplishment, but the summit is a long, long way to go. Moving forward you need to continue to climb, overcoming obstacles Saugus Public Schools Superintendent Michael Hashem (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) and challenges. While you do so try to enjoy the hike and do not overlook the small successes. Those are often the greatest moments. Carry on, carry over, and carry forward. To every graduate, I wish you the best of luck in your future POT BUSINESS | FROM PAGE 1 ted in advance by emailing p.silverman@vicentellp.com or asked during the meeting,” it said. In addition, the company said it would make a presentation at least 24 hours prior to the meeting to anyone emailing the request. Sanctuary Medicinals promotes itself as “a vertically-integrated, multi-state cannabis company with operations in Florida, New Hampshire and Massachusetts.” The company also obtained a provisional retail license in New Jersey. It’s already received favorendeavors and I will leave you with a quote that has always steered me in the right direction. In the words of LL Cool J, “When adversity strikes, that’s when you have to be the most calm. Take a step back, stay strong, stay g able reviews from town officials in Saugus. Sanctuary was only one of two candidates that received a recommendation from the seven-member Marijuana Establishment Review Committee (MERC) for the S-2 permit. The business received a total of 118 points out of a possible 140 in a scoring system. “The Respondent’s proposed location is advantageous, and its extensive cannabis experience and current vertical integration business model are significant benefits,” the committee concluded in its analysis. “The Respondent has a multi-level cultivation and processing facility in Littleton, along with three medical dispensaries and two adult-use retail dispensaries operating in Massachusetts. The site visit to the medical dispensary in Danvers was professional and well-run,” it continued. “The Respondent appeared to be one of the strongest positioned to open, succeed, and provide minimal or manageable impact to the surrounding neighborhood,” it noted. In December of 2023, Sanctuary Medicinals became the first to receive a special permit (S-2) under town zoning bylaws, on a 4-0 vote by the Board of Selectmen.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 Page 3 Saugus High School graduation 2025 The Class President’s Address By Hannah Duong G ood evening students, family, faculty, and friends. Welcome to the Saugus High School Class of 2025’s graduation ceremony. My name is Hannah Duong and I am the Senior Class President. I would first like to thank the people who played a crucial role in making me who I am today. Thank you to my teachers who NEVER gave up on me, especially the ones who might not be here today, but taught me that our lives aren’t over after losing a friend, failing a chem test, or because it was only Monday. To Mr. Brazile and Mrs. Pires, on behalf of the class, I cannot express enough how much you two have done for us. Your guidance has been an instrumental part of our success and we could not have done it without you. After today, we will no longer have to hear Mrs. Pires shouting “PAY YOUR CLASS DUES!”, but in some weird way, I know that’s something that we’ll all miss. Lastly, thank you to my mom, dad, Alannah, and Kevin for your endless love and support that made this moment possible. To the Class of 2025, today marks the end of one chapter, self reminiscing about the moments I wish I had held onto just a little longer. In the end, the real measure of our high school experience is not the letters and numbers found on our transcripts. They are the long-lasting memories we’ve made and the tight bonds that we’ve built. This made me realize that the people do really make the place. Saugus High Class of 2025, it has been the greatest honor to lead our class, and I am endlessly grateful to be one of you. Thank you, and CONGRATULATIONS!! SHS Class of 2025 President Hannah Duong (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) but more importantly, the beginning of another. Our wise advisor once said “Tomorrow is the first day of the rest of your life.” These words remind us to make the most of every moment, because the future is never guaranteed. So hold your memories close, but don’t be afraid to chase what’s ahead. An ideology that deeply resonates with me is living in the moment. We spend most of our lives hoping for more, however, we never truly take the time to embrace what is right here in front of us. We wait all school year to graduate, all week for the weekend, all of the winter for the summer, and all of our childhood wishing for adulthood, but it is important that we remember to fully engage with the present, enjoy the good and the bad, because all that we truly have is now. Senior year has brought us so many of our “lasts” — our last year of being kids, our last walk through the hallways, our last moments on the field, on the court. But most importantly, it’s been our last year together as a class. As we look back, I hope each of you can say you made the most of what you were given because I know I catch my~ Letter-to-the-Editor ~ RE: Broadway Project F or five years, Ward 1 in Lynn has watched the Broadway Project transform our streets, delivering fresh pavement and restored sidewalks along Broadway and parts of Lynnfield Street. But where the city’s work stops and the state’s control over Lynnfield Street begins, we’re stuck with a crumbling and hazardous area. The stateowned section of Route 129 has been mangled by National Grid’s shoddy utility repair jobs, leaving residents dealing with property damage and endless frustration. As Ward 1’s City Councilor, I’ve spent the last 18 months reaching out to Representative Donald Wong, who represents the 9th Essex District, including Lynn’s Ward 1, Precincts 1 and 2. I haven’t received a single call, email, or acknowledgment back. This isn’t just about ignoring me—it’s about our shared constituents. I’ve been fielding countless calls from constituents. If an elected City Councilor can’t get a response from you, what chance do your constituents have? The city has poured resources into replacing gas lines, water mains, and repaving roads, but the state-controlled stretch of Lynnfield Street remains an eyesore. The state-owned portion of Lynnfield Street is your responsibility, but you’re nowhere to be found when it comes to advocating for repairs. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has been involved in the broader Lynnfield Street Improvement Project since at least 2022, with sidewalk upgrades and drainage work on the city’s side. But for the state’s section, you’ve been completely absent in pushing for action. We need a representative who’s present and fighting—not one who’s missing in action. Your job is to represent the 9th Essex District, including Lynn’s Ward 1, do your job. Sincerely, Dr. Peter D. Meaney Ward 1 Councilor, City of Lynn 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, JUnE 13, 2025 Saugus High School graduation 2025 The Valedictorian Address By Victor Phan H ello everyone. My name is Victor Phan, and I’m honored to stand here as valedictorian of Saugus’s 2025 graduating class. Family, friends, and administrators, thank you all for coming out on this wonderful evening to celebrate our class’s first steps into adulthood. First, I want to give a huge thank you to all the teachers, administration, and faculty members who keep this school orderly and afloat. They have to deal with crazy stuff every day here, and 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! I can’t thank them enough for all the patience, care, and compassion they give to students at this school. I also want to thank all the custodians who clean up after us every day and keep the school building nice and tidy. You guys are awesome, and the Class of 2025 thanks you for all the hard work you do. Please, give them all a round of applause, because without them, our school would look like an absolute dumpster fire. Class of 2025, we did it. 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! We’ve finally made it to the finish line. Congratulations! We went through lots of ups and downs during these four years, but what matters is that we got here together, as a unified class. And throughout our four years here, we’ve made countless memories together. Some were good, like our efforts to win Color Day every year or our recent trip to Nahant Beach. Others were not so good, like spending 12 hours on Font’s essay sets every weekend, or seeing that Dr. Clifford posted a new Spanish assignment even though there’s a sub in her class. Now, I could go on about our memories here at SMHS, but I bring them to light today because I want to talk a little bit about perspective. More specifically, our unique NUMBER ONE STUDENT: Victor Phan finished as the top scholastically ranked student in the Class of 2025, earning the honor of being the class Valedictorian. (Saugus Advocate Photo by Mark E. Vogler) perspectives on life and what we bring to the table. We’ve all experienced our fair share, both good and bad, and most of us may want to suppress those bad moments of our lives and focus only on the good. I mean, it feels much better to win than it does to lose, right? But every memory is an integral part of your perspective, an important part of your identity as a growing individual. Each moment you’ve lived through, every tear, every laugh, every bit of emotion, plays a role in how you treat others, approach life, and ultimately carry yourself as a person. I’m Buddhist, and in Buddhism, we focus a lot on karma and balance. The good must always balance out the bad and vice versa, as that is simply the nature of the universe. You cannot have only one or the other. I believe this also applies to our identities as individuals. Your soul canTHE VALEDICTORIAN ADDRESS | SEE PAGE 6 Spring is Here!

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 Page 5 Saugus High School graduation 2025 The Salutatorian Address By Anowar Mahabub G ood evening, everyone. My name is Anowar Mahabub, and I feel extremely honored to stand before you today as the Salutatorian of Saugus High’s class of 2025. Before I start, I want to express deep gratitude to the people who made this day possible. I want to thank all the incredible teachers and administrators for your continuous guidance and support. To parents and friends of graduates, your presence makes today even more memorable. Thank you. I’d also like to thank the custodians who are the behind-thescenes heroes who keep our school proper for us. I’d also like to thank my parents for tion of our accomplishments and growth. To be honest, when I fi rst realized that I had to give a speech, I didn’t think much of it. It was the third quarter of my senior year, and it didn’t feel real. But as we neared the June 6th graduation date, reality had taken hold of me. I knew I wasn’t a public speaker, and I knew I wasn’t even the best writer. A couple of weeks before THE SALUTATORIAN ADDRESS | SEE PAGE 20 NUMBER TWO STUDENT: Anowar Mahabub fi nished as the second highest scholastically ranked student in the Class of 2025, earning the honor of being the Class Salutatorian at last Friday’s 154th Commencement Exercises at Saugus High School. (Saugus Advocate Photo by Mark E. Vogler) 50 their sacrifi ces and for providing unconditional support throughout my academic journey. Lastly, to the class of 2025 – thank you. Thank you for showing resilience, heart, and growth in the last four years. Today is a celebraSABATINO/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, JUnE 13, 2025 2025 Saugus High School graduation Some fi nal advice from the Principal By Mark E. Vogler S augus Middle-High School Principal Carla Scuzzarella mentioned “The Wizard of Oz” as she tried to impart some fi nal words of wisdom to the 176 graduating seniors last Friday night at Christie Serino Jr. Memorial Stadium last Friday night. “Toto, I have a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.” “These were Dorothy Gales’ fi rst words as she walked out into the world of Oz and started on her journey,” Scuzzarella told her audience. “I’m sure you are all familiar with that scene. The book ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,’ by L. Frank Baum, was published 125 years ago and quickly became a classic work of children’s literature. In 1939, MGM released the story as an amazing movie, ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ If We Happen To Meet By Accident ... You’ll Be Glad You Found Us! 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 RECALLING THE WIZARD: Saugus Middle-High School Principal Carla Scuzzarella at last Friday’s graduation. (Saugus Advocate Photo by Mark E. Vogler) which happens to be my favorite movie,” she said. “I feel a little like Dorothy tonight. To be a graduate of this school and to be here tonight as the principal feels unreal, and like I’m home.” Later, Principal Scuzzarella made a reference to a more contemporary version of “The Wicked Witch of the West,” who goes by the name of Elphaba, the green-skinned witch featured in the novel “Wicked,” which led to a Broadway musical hit. “Elphaba teaches us something very important: Don’t let anyone else defi ne your story,” Scuzzarella said. “It’s okay to be different, to speak your mind, and to question the system — even when it’s not popular to do so,” she said. “Then there’s Glinda — the not be in balance without accepting both your good and bad memories. If you don’t accept both, your soul is imbalanced, fragmented by missing a piece of yourself. And if your soul isn’t whole, are you really being your true self? No. In my eyes, you aren’t living until you start embracing all parts of yourself. Only then will you have found your true self. drama queen is what we would call her today — bubbly and sparkly. We’ve all got a little Glinda in us, too. That friend who puts everything on Instagram and says “no problem” while worrying constantly. Glinda teaches us that kindness and confi dence can go together, and yes, that life is better with a little glitter,” she said. “Today is about a group of Sachems about to make their mark on the world. You don’t need a wizard; you don’t need magic ruby slippers; and you defi nitely don’t need to fi t into anyone else’s story,” the principal told the graduates. “Congratulations, Class of 2025. You’re off to see the world — no broomstick required.” THE VALEDICTORIAN ADDRESS | FROM PAGE 4 So, as we enter this next chapter of our lives, I want to give you one piece of advice, Class of 25. Not from valedictorian to classmate, but from one human to another. Take pride in your unique perspective, as that is what makes up your identity. After this, many of us will be taking our own path to success. Some will be entering the workforce. Others THE VALEDICTORIAN ADDRESS | SEE PAGE 8

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 Page 7 Friday Night at the Movies Social Justice Ministry shows ‘Cabrini’ and served as the evening’s hosts. As the movie progressed, only a crinkle from a snack bag could be heard, as all were captivated by the story of “Cabrini” unfolding. Intermission provided moviegoers a time to get more refreshments, review and refl ect on thoughtful handouts and chat a bit among friends. “The Social Justice Ministry was pleased that a group ‘CABRINI’ | SEE PAGE 22 Gerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law BLESSED SACRAMENT MOVIE NIGHT: Pictured from left to right: Seated at the table enjoying snacks and a movie are Doris Napier, William Napier, Dave Swallow, Frances Rogers and Ileana Dancewicz; standing are “Cabby” Johnson and Mary-Lou Graham. (Courtesy photo of Joanie Allbee) By Joanie Allbee T he Catholic Collaborative Social Justice Ministry at Blessed Sacrament Hall at 14 Summer St. last Friday (June 6) night sponsored the showing of the movie “Cabrini.” As moviegoers gathered in the Hall, they were encouraged to choose from a bounty of free snacks. Deacon Frances Gaff ney made sure all were settled in comfortably before rolling the movie. He and Joanne, his wife of 60plus years, are both humble recipients of the 2022 Bishop Cheverus Awards medals 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 DINE IN STYLE ON TOP of IT ALL. Discover The Delaney® at The Vale, where open, welcoming spaces and delicious dining options come together in Greater Boston. Get it all with access to on-site care and the added luxury of financial flexibility. LEARN MORE AND SCHEDULE A VISIT TODAY BY CALLING 781-512-6801. INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE 300 Began Way | Woburn, MA 01801 | At the top of the hill 781-512-6801 | LIFE@DelaneyatTheVale.com | DelaneyatTheVale.com

Page 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 Birthdays are special at the Senior Center W hat a joyous occasion at the Senior Center on Friday, May 30th, as we celebrated 25 seniors with May Birthdays! The room was fi lled with laughter and good cheer as we honored our special members. This special event was made possible thanks to the incredible generosity of Tom Lowe, who graciously sponsored the May Birthday celebration in honor of his beloved wife Betty’s 65th birthday. It was truly a heartwarming tribute. Each month the Senior Center likes to recognize the Senior birthdays with a collective birthday celebration, usually on the final Friday of the month. Each birthday recipient receives a free pizza lunch, cake, ice cream and a souvenir group photo to take home. If anyone would like to sponsor a birthday in honor of someone special, please stop by the office and let us know. SPRING POP-UP MARKET SATURDAYS 11AM - 2PM MAY 17 JUNE 21 THE YARD @ BEACHMONT SQUARE 10 SUFFOLK DOWNS BOULEVARD SUFFOLK DOWNS - REVERE, MA (Steps from Beachmont Station & Amaya ) JOIN US AT OUR UPCOMING SPRING POP-UP MARKETS, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH REVERE BEACH FARMER’S MARKET, FOR A DAY OF FARM-FRESH GOODIES, ARTISANAL BITES, AND FUN SPRING ACTIVITIES! S! call The Advocate Newspapers at 781-233-4446 or info@advocatenews.net MAY BIRTHDAYS: The Saugus Senior Center recognized 25 residents who celebrated their birthdays collectively at the Senior Center on Friday, May 30. Pictured from left to right: Seated: James Lazurek, Cathy Mulligan, Lucianne Calder and Dottie Bockus; second row: Mary Valliere, Liz Kingsley, Mary Dunlop, Mary Macabee, Brian D’Eon, Cheryl Finnerty, Elaine Jebali, Miriam Cianciulli, Marsha Golden, Lois Hanscom, Rose Cosgrove and Pam Goodwin; back row: Linda MacTaggart, Donna Dechellis, Mike Boudreau, Donna Carbone, Betty Lowe, Roberta Levy, Lorraine Bernardi, Paula Mazzio and Louise Dinato. (Courtesy Photo to The Saugus Advocate) Local student named to Bucknell University Dean’s List B ucknell University has released the Dean’s List for outstanding academic achievement during the spring semester of the 2024-25 academic year. A student must earn a grade point average of 3.5 or higher on a scale of 4.0 to receive Dean’s List recognition. Among those listed is Melisa Omerovic, of Saugus, Class of 2026, who is majoring in Civil Engineering. Bucknell is located in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. THE VALEDICTORIAN ADDRESS | FROM PAGE 6 will be continuing their education. Some will take a gap year for themselves. And some of us will even enter the military. But regardless of the path we take, one thing is for certain: Nobody will be there to guide us through For Advertising with RESULTS, our future. Sure, you may have your friends, family, and ChatGPT, but you are the only one who can steer your own ship. Nobody can live your life for you because nobody’s experienced life the way you have. Nobody can be you except for you. So be proud of that. Be proud of your accomplishments and failures. Be proud of your past, whether it was smooth or tumultuous. Be proud of your ups, downs, lefts, rights, whatever. Be proud of your identity and perspective. Because as soon as you accept your identity to the fullest, I promise you that, no matter what life throws at you, you’ll conquer it with strength, confidence, and determination, all while knowing that you haven’t lost yourself along the way. I believe in all of you, Class of 2025. Now go out there and change the world!

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 Page 9 Level Up at the Library with Reading Dragons register for the Kids 2025 Summer reading Program (Editor’s Note: The following info is from a press release issued by the Saugus Public Library.) A s the school year winds down, the Saugus Public Library is winding up. If you’re looking for fun, educational activities and summer programming to support your kids’ learning, stop by the Saugus Public Library. This summer, the Library presents “Level Up at the Library with READING DRAGONS,” the 2025 Summer Reading program. Activities include literacy support, story times, discounted museum passes, Massachusetts park passes, take & make crafts and all your favorite books! How to register Families are encouraged to register their kids for the dragon-themed program using the Beanstack app. It’s easy — just download the Beanstack app, register under the Saugus Public Library and you’re on your way. If you’ve participated before, simply open the Beanstack app and register for the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge. For more information, or to register in person, stop by the Children’s Room at the library or visit the kids’ Summer Reading page on our website. Registration opens Wednesday, June 18. Twenty minutes is all it takes! The Saugus Public Schools recommend that students read at least 20 minutes a day this summer. The program is open to young people, preschool through 6th grade. We’ll have their favorite titles plus free ebooks, audio books, comics, magazines & music you can download using the hoopla and Libby apps. Did we mention prizes? We’ve once again partnered with outstanding local businesses to reward summer reading. Sincere thanks to the businesses who generously donated! We’ll have a full prize cart plus free books to give away. In addition, we’ll run drawings for ice cream, donuts, cookies, pizza, roller skating, bowling, mini golf and sports merch, and grand prize drawings for tickets to Canobie Lake Park and North Shore Music Theatre’s production of “Finding Nemo” — and more! Be a Reading Dragon! As kids log their minutes of reading, they will earn reading dragon cards: collectible cards similar to Pokémon cards. Everyone who registers receives a starter set so they are ready to play the game, start trading and start collecting! Each set of themed dragon cards contains an egg, a child, a teenager and an adult dragon. There are even special holographic cards to collect. Did we mention free programs? In addition, there will be special visits by Wildlife Encounters, Vinny the Bubble Guy, the Saugus Fire & Police Departments, Pikachu + Sonic characters and Toe Jam Puppet Band, plus a family dance party, a concert for kids and bubble, magic and puppet shows. Check out the Library’s online event calendar for up-to-date information. Create a reading routine Librarian Kathryn Walton and “Smorg the Book Hoarder” prepare to visit the Belmonte STEAM Academy to encourage summer reading. (Courtesy Photo to The Saugus Advocate) The library is here to help families create a summer reading routine that is fun for kids and their families. Turn off the media before bedtime, sit with a child, share a book or read alongside them. Ask them questions, but above all, make it fun! Research shows that children who read during the summer months maintain literacy skills that they’ve worked hard to build during the school year. According to Reading Rockets.org, research with 116 fi rst-, second- and third-graders in a school in a middle-class neighborhood found the decoding skills of nearly 45% of the participants and the fl uency of 25% declined between May and September. Stay smart! Have fun! Stop by the library to register for summer reading or to fi nd a just-right book for your child. It’s all free, all summer at the Saugus Public Library! All Deposits Are Insured In Full | Member FDIC Member DIF Visit EverettBank.com and open your account in minutes. *Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate of the date posted and is subject to change without notice. APY assumes the interest remains on deposit until maturity. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. A minimum of $500 is required to open a Certificate of Deposit and earn the advertised APY. There’s Every Bank, Then There’s

Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 The Sounds of Saugus By Mark E. Vogler Good morning, Saugus I’m happy to report that the weather cooperated last Friday night so that the members of the Saugus High School Class of 2025, their families and friends were able to enjoy a graduation ceremony outside in the Christie Serino Jr. Memorial Stadium. I showed up to the stadium early, with a raincoat and umbrella readily available, if needed. But fortunately, the rain held off and the 176 graduates were able to enjoy their final hours together outdoors instead of indoors. Saugus Middle High School Principal Carla Scuzzarella, a 1976 Saugus High graduate, presided over her first Commencement Exercises at the school. She made a few logistical changes, which made for a more orderly and accommodating ceremony. She put some handwritten signs reserving some front row seats for the families of the Class President, the Salutatorian and the Valedictorian so they could feel as honored guests while getting a good glimpse of their graduating children when they gave their respective speeches. In another change, done for efficiency’s sake, the principal had the graduates assemble in the High COMING NEXT WEEKEND: The Strawberry Festival on June 21. (Courtesy artwork of Joanie Allbee) School gymnasium and remain there until it was time to begin their procession toward the stadium. The procession moved through the back of the bleachers and broke into two columns before entering the stadium. In previous graduations, the seniors would congregate near the Route 1 side end zone until it was time for “Pomp and Circumstance.” I actually liked that setup because I was able to hang out with the graduates, get some interesting photos of some of their mortarboard artwork and ferret out some colorful stories from seniors who had time to talk to me. But it was easy to see that the switch to the bleachers entrance was more orderly with fewer distractions. Another nice touch to the ceremony was having the 2025 class officers take turns reading the names of graduates receiving their diplomas in what was called the Affirmation of Graduation. From what I observed, it was a well-run event. This week’s “SHOUT 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 OUTs” We received a few nominations this week from readers who wanted to publicly commend fellow Saugonians who contribute to the betterment of their community. Here they are: From Precinct 1 Town Meeting Member Stacey Herman-Dorant: “I’d like to give a big Shout Out to Steve Doherty who served as the Town Meeting Moderator. Steve’s leadership kept the meetings on-point, organized, and he was always respectful of his fellow Town Meeting members. Our town is better because of dedicated volunteers like you!” From Fae Saulenas: “Please consider my 1st Saugonian shout-out for the two ladies in the pdf. attached above. They are my heroes!” Fae was referring to Maria Carriglio and Crystal Depopoulas, two Saugus School District employees who spoke at the recent Annual Town Meeting. As part of her shout out, Fae provided transcripts of comments the two women made in addressing the Saugus Public Schools Department budget. Here are some excerpts from those comments: From Maria Carriglio, a paraprofessional at the Veterans Early Learning Center: “I would like to say how disappointed I am in this vote. I would think that we would try to put the children first before the money, I was told that the money is there. “Me personally, I have 14 autistic children that I support every day. “There’s four paras. We can’t get any help because when you pay peanuts, you’re gonna get monkeys, basically. And you’re not paying enough for the, you know, the teachers to come or the paraprofessionals to come and support these children that need the help. “If you look at how much paras make, you can’t live off of that. It’s not, it’s not realistic. All these paras have two, three jobs to support everyday life.” From Crystal Depopoulas, another para, who subs for Special Needs students: “Our schools are understaffed and we’re overcrowded. “Air conditioners are broken, heat’s broken. We’re breaking the law with a lot of our IEPs. .. those are law abiding documents, and they’re not being fulfilled because we don’t have enough staff.” 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. THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 11

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 Page 11 SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 10 A Trump protest group forms in Saugus A Saugus-based group that calls itself “SAUGUS & FRIENDS RESIST” and describes itself as “a nonpartisan group concerned with the actions of the Trump Administration” has recently organized. “They have threatened our rights and violated the Constitution,” the group said in a press release to The Saugus Advocate this week. “Checks and Balances have been removed. By peacefully demonstrating, we express our resistance to them,” the statement said. “We stand out every Saturday morning from 11 a.m., to 12 noon at the corner of Hamilton and Central Streets unless the weather is inclement. “Come show your support and/or bring your own custom sign. JOIN US!” We responded to the press release by requesting more information about the group, how it got started and what kind of reaction it’s received so far. Lin Bell emailed us back and said there is no party designation, membership or residency requirements. “We just want Saugus represented,” Lin said. “After attending the weekly Wakefield standout and some others in the area, a few of us -- namely me, Mary Robblee and Mary Kinsell -thought it would be a good idea to do the same here in Saugus,” Lin said. “Last Saturday was our first one, and we wanted to see how it went before publicly announcing them. It went very well! We had about half a dozen people and the majority of those driving by were extremely supportive. We expect a bigger response this Saturday being designated No King’s Day, and want to give Saugonians the opportunity to RESIST locally and on a smaller scale than perhaps going into Boston. We also want to include our surrounding neighbors if their town or city is not having one,” she said. “We are adamant about being a peaceful standout, not being in the way of traffic or pedestrians, and not engaging or gesturing. We are not trying to change anyone’s mind. We are merely taking action to show our resistance to the current Administration with like-minded people and to offer support to each other as well.” We pressed for more information about the group. Any young people show up? Any town officials? Any Republicans who aren’t happy with the results of their vote? “As of last week, no town officials or younger people stood with us. We hope that changes week by week as word gets out,” Lin said. “We do not ask about political affiliation; and as of last week, no one mentioned being an unhappy Republican. That could very well change, but only if they mention it.” For more details, contact the group at saugusfriendsresist@gmail.com Stay tuned. Strawberry Festival June 21 The Saugus Historical Society Strawberry Festival and the Saugus Garden Club annual plant sale will be held on Saturday, June 21. Strawberry shortcakes will be served at the American Legion Hall from 10-2, and the plant sale will be taking place on the lawn of the Roby School, facing Main Street, along with several craft vendors. SAVE Annual Meeting & Dinner June 25 The Saugus Action Volunteers for the Environment (SAVE) will hold its 52nd Annual Meeting & Dinner on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at the Grill House Restaurant at 817 Broadway / Route 1 South, Saugus (social hour begins at 6:30 p.m., dinner buffet to begin at approximately 7:00 p.m.). The Public is cordially invited and we hope you can join us for the Dinner Buffet consisting of Fresh Garden Salad, Grilled Mixed Tips, Baked Haddock, and Cheese Ravioli, Vegetable, Rolls and Butter, Dessert, and Coffee, Tea, or Soda. Joining us this year as EDUCATION RUNS IN THIS FAMILY: Honors Graduate Danica Skye Schena (center) is joined by her family, from left to right: sister Catherine, a 2021 Saugus High graduate who recently graduated from the State University of New York (SUNY) at Oneonta; mother Town Clerk Ellen Schena; grandmother Kathy Schena, who taught in Saugus for nearly 30 years; and dad Precinct 3 Town Meeting Member Daniel Schena. Danica will attend the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities in the fall to study Communications. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) guest speaker will be Andrea Lacroix. Andrea is affiliated with Beyond Plastics, raising awareness of plastic pollution and sharing plastic reduction initiatives. Tickets are $35 per person. Payment can be made by check or Venmo. Please make payment as soon as possible, but no later than June 13th either via mail to SAVE Treasurer, Mary Kinsell, 11 Sunnyside Avenue, Saugus, MA 01906, with a check payable to SAVE, Saugus, or, make your payment by Venmo to @ SAVE-org and complete your forms here: https://forms. gle/KEYAU8CUnAWhoxQEA You may also contact Ann at adevlin@aisle10.net or Mary at Mkinsell@verizon. net Please let us know if you are able to join us for a fun and informative evening, as well as a wonderful buffet dinner, as soon as possible. Free parking is available on site, and the facility is ADA accessible. A special call for art Here’s a special request from Tori Darnell, co-chair of the Saugus Cultural Council: I wanted to share with you that the Saugus Cultural Council has partnered with Bike to the Sea to host an outdoor art show along the Northern Strand Trail on Saturday, July 19th. This special 1-day event is to celebrate local creativity and community spirit by showcasing artwork from residents of all ages who live along this community-connecting trail. I am reaching out to community groups and leaders along the trail; Everett, Malden, Revere, Saugus, and Lynn, for their support in promoting the call for artists for this community-connecting event. Artists are to submit artwork through this online form: https://forms.gle/ sM9KLBzskdJHKaUc6/. Artwork deadline entry is July 1st, 2025. Tori can be reached at 339440-1017 for more details. Help plan the Second Annual Saugus Cultural Festival Join the Saugus Cultural Festival Subcommittee to help organize the 2nd Annual Saugus Cultural Festival! The Saugus Cultural Council is looking for Saugus resident volunteers to serve on a Subcommittee to help plan and organize the 2026 Saugus Cultural Festival, which is happening on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the Saugus Middle High School! Help out with: • Coordinate diverse entertainers, food vendors and miscellaneous activities • Work with Saugus 411 Committee on community/ information tables for community groups & local businesses/nonprofits • Support in social media, print and other digital marketing • Support in crowdsourcing for grants and festival sponsors • And more! Other commitments: • Monthly evening meetings starting August 2025; Subcommittee may meet twice a month starting October 2025 until March 2026. • Share progress at Saugus Cultural Council public meetings every first Tuesday starting September 2025 until March 2026 Interested in volunteering? Email us at saugusculturalcouncil@gmail.com by July 31. Saugus Sachems Summer Track Camp 2025 Coach Christopher TaranTHE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 15

Page 12 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 154th Commencement Exercises Saugus High School Class of 2025 L ast Friday’s (June 6) graduation ceremonies at Christie Serino Jr. Memorial Stadium culminated a week of celebration for the Saugus High School Class of 2025 and marked the final time together for the 176 seniors who received diplomas. For much of the day, school officials monitored the weather for possible rain that might force the graduation ceremony to be held inside the gym. But favorable weather prevailed, enabling the seniors, their families and school staff to enjoy an outdoor ceremony instead of having the commencement indoors. This year’s ceremony was special for two top school officials. In his speech to the graduating seniors, Saugus Public Schools Superintendent Michael Hashem noted that he was observing the 40th anniversary from his Saugus High School graduation at Stackpole Field on a sunny and humid Sunday afternoon. Saugus High School Principal Carla Scuzzarella, in her remarks, made a reference to the character “Dorothy” in “The Wizard of Oz” story that was made into a popular 1939 movie. “To be a graduate of this school and be here tonight as the principal feels unreal and like I’m home,” said Scuzzarella, a member of the Saugus High School Class of 1976. This marked the end of her first year as the school’s principal after a long career as an educator that included principalships at several other high schools. Scuzzarella asked graduating seniors Cody John Munafo and Yoela Nyha Similien to stand and be acknowledged by the crowd for their decisions to serve in the military. (Saugus Advocate Photos by Mark E. Vogler) School Committee Chair Vincent Serino Class of 2025 National Honor Society members THE RECEPTION COMMITTEE: Principal Carla Scuzzarella and Superintendent Michael Hashem got to congratulate each of the new graduates. Student Color Guards lead the procession. Justin Jones and the Saugus High School Band Graduates take their seats. Principal Carla Scuzzarella waits for the Class of 2025 to enter Christie Serino Jr. Memorial Stadium.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 Page 13 Showing family support FEELING LIKE SHE’S HOME: Principal Carla Scuzzarella, a 1976 Saugus High graduate, got to preside over her first Saugus High commencement as principal. Anowar Mahabub and his family posed with Principal Carla Scuzzarella for a post-graduation photo. Mr. Mahabub proudly wore his son’s gown. AFFIRMATION OF GRADUATION: The 2025 Class Officers take turns introducing the names of the graduates. The Saugus School Committee Superintendent Michael Hashem congratulated Class President Hannah Duong after she received her diploma. A CASCADE OF CAPS: At the end of the commencement exercises, the young graduates celebrated by flinging their caps skyward. SAVORING THE MOMENT: 2025 Class Valedictorian Victor Phan celebrated with his family after last Friday night’s graduation ceremony. Town Manager Scott Crabtree (far back), the Board of Selectmen and State Representative Donald Wong (second from left) Waiting for the speeches Some of the students wore colorful sashes.

Page 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 Saugus Gardens in the Spring Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable By Laura Eisener T oday is Friday the 13th! Probably it’s best to stay close to your garden to avoid any bad luck today. Many plants are having a good year, with bearded irises (Iris germanica) still opening new blossoms, and Siberian iris (Iris sibirica) also still in bloom all around town. This is one of the prettiest times for the herb gardens around the Appleton-Taylor-Mansfield House at the Saugus Iron Works. Several varieties of common peony (Paeonia lactiflora) are in bloom along the small flagstone path; tall spires of false indigo (Baptisia australis) and shorter spikes of catmint (Nepeta faasenii) and common sage (Salvia officinalis) are just a few of the plants in bloom there this week. Purple flowering gas plant (Dictamnus albus purpureus) has spikes of nearly white flowers with dark purple veins in the petals. Its flowers have a faintly lemony scent. Most of the plants in these gardens are not palatable to wildlife, either because of strongly scented foliage or unpleasant tasting and slightly toxic oils in the leaves and stems. Tomorrow, June 14, is Flag The five-pointed petals on each blossom of blue star show where this plant got its name. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) Day. The American flag was adopted by Congress on June 14, 1777. The design remains essentially the same, although more stars have been added as the number of states has increased. The original design had 13 stars and 13 stripes to represent the original 13 colonies. Among the star-shaped blossoms blooming this month is one that seems especially appropriate to represent the “stars and stripes”: The native plant threadleaf blue star (Amsonia hubrichtii) has five pointed petals that start out pale blue and fade to white. It is very resilient, thriving in sun or part shade, and is one of the last to droop from drought. This species is also known as Arkansas blue star, and it grows in mountainous areas of Arkansas. Several closely related species, including the eastern blue star (Amsonia tabernaemontana), also have star-shaped pale blue flowers in June. The leaves are wider on this species. Its wide range includes Massachusetts, Mock orange flowers usually have four petals, but one out of the blossoms on this shrub at the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site has five. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) although it is more commonly found wild in the southern states. In addition to the charming flowers in early summer, the bright yellow fall foliage is another welcome sight in the fall garden. Amsonias are members of the dogbane family (Apocynaceae), and members of this family have a slightly toxic and unpleasant tasting sap, which makes them unpalatable to rabbits and other animals that might eat the tastier plants in the garden. Mountain laurel (Kalmia latiMountain laurel variety ‘Minuet’ is a dwarf evergreen shrub with intriguing June blossoms. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) folia), sometimes called calico shrub, is an evergreen shrub native to the eastern United States and fairly common in much of New England. It is the state flower of Connecticut. If you drive westward on the Mass. Pike, you are likely to see many of these shrubs in bloom, most of them with white flowers, although they can also be varying tints of pink. These shrubs can reach 20’ tall or more, which places them more in the realm of trees as far as height goes. Some of the most popular cultivated varieties are dwarf forms, which usually stay below 5’ in height, a more useful size in most gardens. One of the most beautiful varieties is the dwarf form ‘Minuet’ with burgundy banded white petals. Its average size at maturity is 4’. In our area mountain laurels thrive and can bloom well in shade. Gas plant is an old-fashioned perennial blooming in the herb garden at the Saugus Iron Works this week. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) A very fragrant flowering shrub that is blooming at the Saugus Iron Works near 230 and 232 Central St. and in many gardens around town this week is the mock orange. This shrub got its common name from the fragrance of the blossom, which is similar to the scent of orange blossoms, although the two are not closely related. Common mock orange (Philadelphus coronarius) is the best-known member of the genus and often produces over a hundred blossoms at once on a mature plant. Typical flowers have four white petals, but every now and then you will find a blossom that has five petals. Out of the hundreds of blossoms on the mock orange shrubs at the Iron Works, I found only one with the extra petal when I visited last Sunday. Mock oranges (Philadelphus spp.) are members of the hydrangea family (Hydrangeaceae). 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. Blue star (Amsonia hubrichtii) is blooming in the garden of Dee LeMay. (Photo courtesy of Dee LeMay)

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 Page 15 SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 11 tino – also known affectionately as “Coach T” – has announced plans for his Summer Track Camp. Registration is already underway. “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. Track Camp runners will be guided by Coach Tarantino, his coaches, counselors and alumni, as well as current middle/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 (was $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 A “Zip Trip” stop in Saugus on June 27 Mark Friday, June 27, on your calendar if you happen to have some free time that morning. Boston 25 is hosting a Zip Trip in Saugus right outside Saugus Town Hall. Jessica Howard DeThomas, the Senior Morning Producer for the television station, tells me they will spend a few hours that day interviewing Saugus folks about what makes the town special. Stay tuned for more information as that day approaches. Narcan presentation July 14 at Senior Center The Saugus Everett Elks Drug Awareness Committee will hold a Narcan Presentation at the Saugus Senior Center (466 Central St. in Saugus) on Monday, July 14, at 10 a.m. This is a free hour-long presentation. Become educated on how to save lives from an accidental overdose. Light refreshments will be served. Call the Senior Center at 781-2314178 to reserve your seat. Walk-ins are welcome. Visitor Services available at Saugus Iron Works The Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site has begun its “visitors’ services,” marking the opening of restrooms and the museum. This is the expected schedule of tours for the summer: Wednesday–Sunday at 11 a.m., house tours, 1/2 hour; Wednesday–Sunday at 2 p.m., industrial site tours, which will include waterwheel demonstrations when staffing permits. On Fridays and Saturdays only, there will also be a 10 a.m. waterwheel demonstration. Visitors’ services will end on Oct. 31. Library events • Conversation Circle at the Saugus Public Library: Would you like to practice speaking English in a comfortable and supportive environment? Intended for intermediate and advanced-level speakers of English to practice speaking in an informal setting, the Conversation Circle promotes speaking and listening in English. It improves fluency and confidence. This group will meet from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Brooks Room on Tuesday, June 24. If there is enough interest, additional dates will be scheduled. There is no cost for this program. Walkins are welcome. • Teen Time at the Library: Let’s laugh and play with friends; Teen Game Night is ADVANCED ACADEMY SCHOLAR: Saugus High Graduate Kendall Hatch, who is also a member of the National Honor Society, was joined by her family last Friday night; from left to right: brother Andrew, a 2021 Saugus High graduate who is studying mechanical engineering at UMass Lowell; mom Wendy, the Finance Director and Treasurer/Director for the Town of Saugus; and dad School Committee Member John Hatch. Kendall plans to attend the University of New Hampshire in the fall to study Mechanical Engineering. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) Monday, June 16, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in the Teen Room; card and board games. Registration not required; fifth grade and up. For information, call 781-231-4168 or email rhuntington@noblenet.org. • Henna For Teens: Get a free Henna Design tattoo from a professional Henna artist on July 21 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. in the Brooks Room. Registration required; fifth grade and up. • Level Up at your library: June 18-Aug. 20; submit what you read this summer and you may win an Amazon gift card. Enter to win by going to our website and filling out the book review form; grades seven to 12. • Adult Summer Reading contest at the library: June 18-August 20; adults age 18 and up participate in our Adult Summer Reading Contest for the chance to win a gift card to a local restaurant! Fill out an online book review form (www.sauguspubliclibrary.org) for every book you read over the summer, and you will be entered to win! The more books you read, the greater your chances of winning! Graphic novels, manga, cookbooks, e-books and audio books count, too. Good luck! Buy-A-Brick for a veteran The Saugus War Monument Committee, once again, is sponsoring the BuyA-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 781231-7995 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 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 THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 16

Page 16 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 FUN-damental Basketball Camp Open to Boys and Girls in Local Area T he FUN-damental Basketball Camp, open to boys and girls in local area cities and towns, will be held July 21 to July 25, 2025, at the Immaculate Conception Parish Center, located at 59 Summer Street in Everett. The camp will be held between the hours of 9:00 am SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 15 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 and 1:00 pm for boys and girls entering grades 3 through 8 as of September 2025.The cost of the camp is $125. Tony Ferullo, boys’ varsity basketball coach at Mystic Valley Regional Charter School in Malden, will be the Director of the camp. The purpose of the camp is: 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 at 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 J& • Reliable Mowing Service • Spring & Fall Cleanups • Mulch & Edging • Sod or Seed Lawns • Shrub Planting & Trimming • Water & Sewer Repairs Joe Pierotti, Jr. To provide all campers with the fundamental tools to help them become better basketball players; To create a positive atmosphere where the camper will learn and have fun at the same time; and To instill the spirit of the game into all campers and inmay 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 – so many loved seeing them and appreciated them being 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 who are not on Facebook to give them some early notice in case they may want to attend and need to make 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 spire them to continue playing the game either competitively or just for fun. Each camper, who will receive a T-shirt and certificate, will participate in various drills, scrimmages and individual contests.Special guests will speak and share their personal basketball tips. 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. An awards ceremony will take place on the last day of the camp, and parents and friends are welcome to attend. For more information about the FUN-damental Basketball Camp, please contact Camp Director Tony Ferullo: 857-312-7002 or tferullo@suffolk.edu. 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 978-6837773. 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. ~ School Bus Drivers Wanted ~ 7D Licensed School Bus Drivers Malden Trans is looking for reliable drivers for the new school year. We provide ongoing training and support for licensing requirements. Applicant preferably lives local (Malden, Everett, Revere). Part-time positions available and based on AM & PM school hours....15-30 hours per week. Good driver history from Registry a MUST! If interested, please call David @ 781-322-9401. CDL SCHOOL BUS DRIVER WANTED Compensation: $28/hour School bus transportation company seeking active CDL drivers who live LOCALLY (Malden, Everett, Chelsea and immediate surrounding communities). - Applicant MUST have BOTH S and P endorsements as well as Massachusetts school bus certificate. Good driver history from Registry a MUST! - Part-time hours, BUT GUARANTEED 20-35 HOURS PER WEEK depending on experience. Contact David @ 781-322-9401.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 Page 17 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. 23 June 2-6, 2025 Copyright © 2025 Beacon Hill Roll Call. All Rights Reserved. By Bob Katzen THE HOUSE AND SENATE: Beacon Hill Roll Call records local representatives’ votes on roll calls from the week of June 2-6. There were no roll calls in the Senate last week. 4187) REGULATE CANNABIS (H House 153-0, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that makes several changes to the state’s cannabis laws that supporters say would allow the cannabis industry to continue growing responsibly. The bill makes changes to the structure of the Cannabis Control Commission (CCC), increases the number of retail licenses that an entity may have, lowers the barrier to entry for medical marijuana retail, increases purchase limits for consumers and patients and addresses the selling of hemp products. The bill creates an oversight structure for the importation, manufacture and sale of two forms of consumable federally legal hemp products: hemp beverages and consumable CBD products. Under the bill, both products may only be sold if registered with the CCC. The bill instructs the CCC to develop regulations for hemp product registration that aligns with regulations for marijuana products, including a prohibition on any product containing synthetic cannabinoids. The products may only be manufactured from concentrate that complies with federal potency limits on hemp. Other provisions include increasing the purchase and possession limit from one to two ounces of marijuana; increasing from two ounces to three ounces the possession limit that would result in a civil penalty or drug awareness programming for those under 21; restructuring the CCC by making the governor the sole appointing authority – replacing current law which gives that authority to the trio of the governor, treasurer and attorney general; and requiring the chair of the CCC to serve coterminously with the governor. The bill also incrementally raises from three to six the limit on the number of retail licenses any individual or entity may hold and requires that priority consideration for licenses be given to social equity businesses, minority businesses, woman businesses and veteran businesses. “This legislation not only makes needed changes to the structure of the Cannabis CCC, it’s also representative of the House’s commitment to ensuring that the cannabis industry in Massachusetts is regulated in a manner that bolsters economic opportunity, especially for communities that were disproportionately impacted by the criminalization of marijuana,” said House Speaker Ron Mariano (D-Quincy). “[The bill] calls for restructuring the composition and appointing authority of the CCC, which has been seen for some time now as dysfunctional and, in the words of the Inspector General, ‘rudderless’ when it comes to who is responsible for overseeing its day-to-day operations,” said House Minority Leader Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “The bill contains additional reforms by establishing standards for licensing, compliance and testing of intoxicating hemp-derived beverages and other consumable CBD products which can cause impairment but are widely available at many of the state’s convenience stores and gas stations. I supported this bill because it will protect consumers and support businesses by strengthening the cannabis industry’s regulatory framework.” (A “Yes” vote is for the bill.) Rep. Jessica Giannino Yes Rep. Donald Wong Yes OUT-OF-STATE TESTING LABORATORIES (H 4187 House 154-0, approved an amendment to a section of the cannabis bill which requires out-of-state testing laboratories used by Massachusetts to meet certain standards, including being licensed in its home state to test hemp and cannabis. The amendment would add an additional provision that the testing laboratory must also be certifi ed and in good standing with the Massachusetts CCC. “The underlying bill … sets a defi nition for what constitutes a qualifi ed out-of-state testing laboratory to make sure it meets certain standards, including being licensed in its home state to test hemp and cannabis,” said Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “This amendment adds a further provision that the testing laboratory also be certifi ed and in good standing with the CCC to ensure that Massachusetts’ testing standards are not compromised and consumers are fully protected.” Rep. Mike Day (D-Stoneham), the sponsor of the amendment, did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking him to comment on passage of his amendment. (A “Yes” vote is for the amendment.) Rep. Jessica Giannino Yes Rep. Donald Wong Yes ALSO UP ON BEACON HILL “DONUT SPARE TIRES (H 3694) – The Transportation Committee held a hearing on legislation that would prohibit vehicles operating on a “donut” spare tire from driving in the high-speed lane nearest to the left side of the road. A “donut” spare is a tire that is smaller than a conventional tire and takes up less room in the trunk of the car. Supporters said that donuts are designed to only drive up to 50 miles at speeds of up to 50 mph. “Driving at speeds higher than this with a donut spare, which the high-speed lanes normally run at, not only puts the driver at risk, but surrounding cars as well,” said sponsor Rep. Steve Howitt (R-Seekonk). ELECTRIC AND GAS RATES (S 2238) - The Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy held a hearing on a measure that would prohibit the Department of Public Utilities from approving any rate request that would result in a utility earning a higher profit than what is allowed in fi ve neighboring states. “Massachusetts ratepayers are experiencing some of the highest costs in the nation,” said sponsor Sen. Jo Comerford (D-Northampton). “Now is the time for an all-hands on deck eff ort focused on reducing costs to ratepayers. In recent years, DPU regulators have approved utility rates resulting in returns on equity for utilities that are higher than what utilities are allowed to earn in Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire. The result has been Massachusetts ratepayers paying millions more annually on their utility bills so that utilities can earn higher profits in Massachusetts than in surrounding states.” CAP HOSPITAL PROFITS AND SALARY OF HOSPITAL CEOS (H 1398) –The Health Care Financing Committee held a hearing on a legislation that would require that in any hospital which accepts state funding,if the CEO’s annual compensation is greater than 50 times the lowest paid employee, the facility will be subject to a civil penalty equal to the amount by which the Chief Executive Offi cer’s annual compensation exceeds 50 times the value of the lowest paid employee. Another provision provides that any state-funded hospital whose annual operating margin (profi t) is more than 8 percent will be subject to a civil penalty equal to the amount by which the annual operating margin exceeds 8 percent. “[The bill] represents a necessary step to ensure that our state’s burgeoning healthcare industry is guided by fairness and accountability,” said sponsor Rep. Jim O’Day (D-West Boylston). “As it stands, hospitals and licensed healthcare institutions are some of the most profitable entities in Massachusetts, with executive pay rivaling that of the highest-paid corporate CEOs. Meanwhile, safety-net hospitals – those serving low-income and underserved populations – often struggle to stay afl oat. To address this inequity, the proposal introduces fi - nancial fairness standards by placing a cap on executive pay and redirecting excess revenue into the public, needsbased system.” O’Day continued, “When hospitals prioritize profi t over patient outcomes, treatments are delayed, emergency departments become understaff ed and entire communities are left without critical care. As a result, this legislation is essential to safeguard public health.” RESTRICT ABILITY OF CRIMINAL OFFENDERS TO PROFIT FROM THEIR CRIME (H 1789) – The Judiciary Committee held a hearing on a bill that would restrict the ability of criminal off enders to profi t fi nancially by undertaking any ventures that capitalize on the infamy of their crime. The bill sets forth a procedure to determine if the criminal off ender is attempting to make money from the notoriety surrounding their actions by allowing the Attorney General, by and through the Division of Victim Compensation, to investigate and monitor such profi ts, and to distribute these profi ts to victims who were victimized by the underlying crime. “This bill seeks to protect victims of crime by making sure that incarcerated felons do not reap unexpected fi nancial benefi ts from their wrongful actions,” said sponsor Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “It not only takes steps to ensure that criminals do not profi t from their crimes while BEACON | SEE PAGE 18

Page 18 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 BEACON | FROM PAGE 17 in jail but also establishes a process for using this money to compensate their victims as a form of restitution.” ALLOW PETS IN PUBLIC STATE-FUNDED HOUSING (H 1476) – A bill heard by the Housing Committee would reinstate the elderly state-aided housing pet program which was inadvertently eliminated when the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities was established in 2023. The program allows elderly residents of public housing to have pets. This bill would also expand the pet program to apply to all state-aided housing, without restrictions on a dog’s breed, size, weight or appearance. In addition, it would prevent state-aided public housing facilities from requiring pet declawing in line with Massachusetts law prohibiting this practice, requiring unreasonably expensive pet deposits or evicting a tenant because they own a pet. Anoth- LEGAL NOTICE - COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS THE TRIAL COURT PROBATE AND FAMILY COURT Essex Probate and Family Court 36 Federal Street Salem, MA 01970 (978) 744-1020 Docket No. ES25P1655EA Estate of: CAROL LYNNE BENNETT Date of Death: 05/14/2024 CITATION ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION To all interested persons: A Petition for Formal Adjudication of Intestacy and Appointment of Personal Representative has been filed by John R. Bennett of Weymouth, MA requesting that the Court enter a formal Decree and Order and for such other relief as requested in the Petition. The Petitioner requests that: John R. Bennett of Weymouth, MA be appointed as Personal Representative(s) of said estate to serve Without Surety on the bond in unsupervised administration. IMPORTANT NOTICE You have the right to obtain a copy of the Petition from the Petitioner or at the Court. You have a right to object to this proceeding. To do so, you or your attorney must file a written appearance and objection at this Court before: 10:00 a.m. on the return day of 06/23/2025. This is NOT a hearing date, but a deadline by which you must file a written appearance and objection if you object to this proceeding. If you fail to file a timely written appearance and objection followed by an affidavit of objections within thirty (30) days of the return day, action may be taken without further notice to you. UNSUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION UNDER THE MASSACHUSETTS UNIFORM PROBATE CODE (MUPC) A Personal Representative appointed under the MUPC in an unsupervised administration is not required to file an inventory or annual accounts with the Court. Persons interested in the estate are entitled to notice regarding the administration directly from the Personal Representative and may petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including the distribution of assets and expenses of administration. WITNESS, Hon. Frances M. Giordano, First Justice of this Court. Date: May 27, 2025 PAMELA A. CASEY O’BRIEN REGISTER OF PROBATE June 13, 2025 er provision would create an advisory group to help develop and effectively implement pet-friendly policies in state-funded housing. “Elderly residents should not have to choose between access to housing and keeping their pets,” said sponsor Rep. Tackey Chan (D-Quincy). “The provisions outlined in this bill are crucial for ensuring elderly residents in state-aided housing can remain with their pets safely and without unfair restrictions.” FLY FLAG OUTSIDE CONDOS (H 1555) – Another proposal before the Housing Committee wouldprohibit any condominium association from denying a unit owner the right to fly or display the flag of the United States, the official flag of the United States Armed Forces or a Prisoner of War/Missing in Action flag in a window of the unit. The measure limits the size of the flag to 4.5 feet by 6 feet in size and prohibits any flag from obstructing the sightlines of other unit owners. “This bill stems from a constituent several years ago being told they could not fly the American flag- which she vehemently disagreed with,” said sponsor Rep. Dave Muradian (R-Grafton). ALLOW BUSINESSES TO CHARGE CUSTOMERS A FEE TO COVER CREDIT CARD FEES (S 194) – The Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure heard a bill that would allow Massachusetts businesses to charge customers a fee to cover the cost of the processing fees that the credit card companies charge the business, provided that the surcharge amount is not greater than the actual cost to the seller and is posted prominently on their premises and website. “I filed this bill after hearing from a small business owner in my district whose auto repair shop is struggling to stay afloat under the weight of rapidly rising credit card processing fees,” said sponsor Sen. Jo Comerford (D-Northampton). “His experience is not unique. It reflects a growing challenge faced by small businesses across the commonwealth. Credit card fees add an unnecessary challenge to the operation of small businesses. Credit card companies and banks charge businesses for accepting credit cards by attaching a fee to transactions. These fees range from 2 to 4 percent of the transaction, despite the total cost of such transactions only being around 3.6 cents.” Comerford continued, “Large companies have leverage to negotiate better rates with these credit card companies and banks. However, small businesses do not have this luxury and are forced to bear the cost. While other states allow businesses to pass this fee to the consumer through surcharges, Massachusetts is one of two states that prohibit this. Small businesses play a vital role in the economy of Massachusetts. In 2024, these businesses comprised 99.5 percent of businesses in the commonwealth and employed 43.9 percent of Massachusetts’ employees. However, a 2025 study from the UMass Donahue Institute reported that 51 percent of retailers are likely to close or sell their business in the next five years, citing high-cost business challenges as a main factor behind their decision.” REGULATE BODY ART (H 321) – Another measure heard by the Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure would require the state to establish regulations and licensing for the body art and modification industry. Body art includes tattooing, piercing, branding and scarification and is currently regulated at the municipal level. Doctors who practice body art as a part of patient treatment and individuals who pierce only ears would be exempt from the bill. The bill establishes standards for businesses conducting body art, including procedures, sterilization, equipment, facilities and instruments. An individual licensed to perform body modification or body art would be required to have taken a college-level course in both anatomy and physiology, a course on the prevention of disease transmission from bloodborne pathogens, hold a certification in basic first aid and have two years of experience in the practice of body art either as part of an apprenticeship or from working in the field outside of the state. “Body art has grown in popularity, but the lack of consistent statewide standards puts both practitioners and clients at risk,” said sponsor Rep. Bruce Ayers (D-Quincy). “This bill ensures proper training, health safeguards, and oversight, so that every body art procedure in Massachusetts meets the highest standards of safety and professionalism.” QUOTABLE QUOTES\ “Office to housing conversions are transformative for our main streets and downtowns. Building new housing from vacant buildings is a long-term investment in the community, providing more living options for residents, a renewed tax base and more customers for local businessBEACON | SEE PAGE 19

BEACON | FROM PAGE 18 es.” ---Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll on the Healey Administration awarding $7.4 million in for two offi ce to housing conversion projects that will create nearly 200 new units in downtown Boston. “This program was inspired by my own journey as a public safety intern nearly three decades ago. Our goal is to give students the tools, relationships and real-world insight that can spark a lifelong career in public service. The passion and diversity this cohort brings makes me optimistic for the future of public safety in Massachusetts.” ---Public Safety and Security Secretary Terrence Reidy on the Executive Offi ce of Public Safety and Security’s Internship Program which continues to serve as a pipeline for talented, mission-driven individuals interested in careers in public safety and government service. - LEGAL NOTICE - COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS THE TRIAL COURT PROBATE AND FAMILY COURT Essex Probate and Family Court 36 Federal Street Salem, MA 01970 (978) 744-1020 Docket No. ES25P1529EA Estate of: MARILYN FLORENCE MURPHY Also known as: MARILYN F. MURPHY Date of Death: 05/16/2022 CITATION ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION To all interested persons: A Petition for Formal Probate of Will with Appointment of Personal Representative has been filed by Kathleen A Kerr of Saugus, MA requesting that the Court enter a formal Decree and Order and for such other relief as requested in the Petition. The Petitioner requests that: Kathleen A Kerr of Saugus, MA be appointed as Personal Representative(s) of said estate to serve Without Surety on the bond in unsupervised administration. IMPORTANT NOTICE You have the right to obtain a copy of the Petition from the Petitioner or at the Court. You have a right to object to this proceeding. To do so, you or your attorney must file a written appearance and objection at this Court before: 10:00 a.m. on the return day of 06/26/2025. This is NOT a hearing date, but a deadline by which you must file a written appearance and objection if you object to this proceeding. If you fail to file a timely written appearance and objection followed by an affidavit of objections within thirty (30) days of the return day, action may be taken without further notice to you. UNSUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION UNDER THE MASSACHUSETTS UNIFORM PROBATE CODE (MUPC) A Personal Representative appointed under the MUPC in an unsupervised administration is not required to file an inventory or annual accounts with the Court. Persons interested in the estate are entitled to notice regarding the administration directly from the Personal Representative and may petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including the distribution of assets and expenses of administration. WITNESS, Hon. Frances M. Giordano, First Justice of this Court. Date: May 22, 2025 PAMELA A. CASEY O’BRIEN REGISTER OF PROBATE June 13, 2025 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 “This program is a great example of government being innovative and supporting people’s fi nancial and career goals based on their needs and unique circumstances.” ---Sen. Sal DiDomenico (D-Everett) on the Executive Offi ce of Housing and Livable Communities awarding more than $1 million to local housing authorities and regional administering agencies this month to promote economic opportunity for public housing residents. “The data are clear. Lead was detected in most of the taps tested at schools and childcare centers across the state and we know children are the most impacted from exposure to lead. We need policies that get the lead out of faucets and fountains in our schools and childcare centers.” ---Deirdre Cummings, MASSPIRG legislative director, urging state lawmakers to pass a bill to get the lead out of drinking water at Massachusetts schools and childcare centers. HOW LONG WAS LAST WEEK’S SESSION? Beacon Hill Roll Call tracks the length of time that the House and Senate were in session each week. Many legislators say that legislative sessions are only one aspect of the Legislature’s job and that a lot of important work is done outside of the House and Senate chambers. They note that their jobs also involve committee work, research, constituent work and other matters that are important to their districts. Critics say that the Legislature does not meet regularly or long enough to debate and vote in public view on the thousands of pieces of legislation that have been fi led. They note that the infrequency and brief length of sessions are misguided and lead to irresponsible 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 June 2-6, the House met for a total of six hours and 19 minutes while the Senate met for a total of one hour and 19 minutes. BEACON | SEE PAGE 21 Page 19 Sa nr Sa a y Senior Seni by Jim Miller Essential Legal Documents All Seniors Should Have Dear Savvy Senior, What kinds of legal documents do I need to help my family take care of me in my elder years? I would like to get my aff airs in order but could use some help. Approaching 80 Dear Approaching, All adults, especially an older adult like yourself, should have at least fi ve legal documents to protect yourself and your family. These documents will make sure your wishes regarding your estate are legal and clear and will help minimize any confl icts and confusion with your family and your health care providers if you become seriously ill or when you die. Here are the key documents you need, along with some tips to help you create them. Durable Power of Attorney: This document allows you to designate someone you trust to handle your fi nancial aff airs if you become incapacitated. Advance Directive: This includes two documents that spell out your wishes regarding your end-of-life medical treatment. The two documents are a “living will” which tells your doctor what kind of care you want to receive if you become incapacitated. And a “health care power of attorney” (or health care proxy), which names a person you authorize to make medical decisions on your behalf if you’re unable. To complement your advance directive, you should also consider getting a Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment – see POLST.org. This is a state specifi c form that your doctor would fi ll out that translates your endof-life wishes into medical orders to ensure your wishes are carried out. A Will: This lets you spell out your wishes of how you’d like your property and assets distributed after you die, whether it’s to family, friends or a charity. It also allows you to designate an executor to ensure your wishes are carried out and allows you to name guardians if you have dependent children. In addition to a will, if you own real estate or have considerable assets, another option you may want to consider is a “revocable living trust.” This functions like a will but allows your estate to avoid the time and expense of probate (the public legal process that examines your estate after you die) and helps ensure your estate’s privacy. HIPPA Release: This form gives your healthcare provider permission to discuss your medical care and medical bills with those you designate. You may need specific HIPAA release forms for each medical professional or health care establishment you deal with. Do-It-Yourself If you have a simple estate and an uncomplicated family situation, there are do-it-yourself resources that can help you create all these documents for a few hundred dollars. Some top-rated options to consider include Quicken WillMaker & Trust software (see WillMaker.com), Trust & Will (TrustandWill.com) and Legal Zoom (LegalZoom.com). Get Help If, however, you want or need assistance or if you have a complicated fi nancial situation, blended family or have considerable assets, you should hire an attorney. An experienced lawyer can make sure you cover all your bases – especially when writing a will or living trust – which can help avoid family confusion and squabbles after you’re gone. Costs will vary depending on where you reside, but you can expect to pay somewhere between $500 and $2,000 for a basic estate plan that includes a will, power of attorney and advance directive. If you want your estate plan to include a living trust, that can run anywhere between $1,500 and $5,000. The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA.org) and the National Association of Estate Planners and Councils (NAEPC. org) are two good resources that have directories on their websites to help you fi nd someone in your area. If money is tight, check with your state’s bar association (see FindLegalHelp.org) to fi nd lowcost legal help in your area. Or call the Eldercare Locater at 800-6771116 for a referral. 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 nior

Page 20 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 OBITUARIES Maurice J. DiBlasi O f Saugus , fo r - merly of Revere. Died on Sunday, June 1st at the age of 104. He was the husband of the late I. Victoria (Cataldo) DiBlasi. Born in Boston and raised in Revere, Mr. DiBlasi was the son of the late Daniel and Josephine (Michaels) DiBlasi. Maurice was a firefighter for the City of Revere for over 30 years and was a WWII U.S. Navy Veteran. A resident of Saugus for the past 20 years, he was a member of the Saugus Senior Center. Maurice was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather and great great-grandfather. Mr. DiBlasi is survived by his three daughters, Patricia Howell, Joanne Delisio and Lisa Baglieri and her husband John; eleven grandchildren, John, Jennifer, Jeff, Nicole, Conrad, Adam, Alyssa, Erika, Michelle, Daniel and Christopher; twelve great-grandchildren, Steven, Madison, Nathan, Jackson, Lila, Steven, Layla, Eden, Jacob, Olivia. Zander and Reese; two great great-grandchildren, Ariel and Ben; and one brother, James DiBlasi. He was preFOR RENT - EVERETT 1 & 2 Bedroom Apts. All New - Off-Street Parking - Central AC - Gas Heat - Hardwood Floors. Going Fast! Call: (617) 839-8954 & leave message THE SALUTATORIAN ADDRESS | FROM PAGE 5 deceased by his son, Daniel DiBlasi and two brothers and two sisters. Relatives and friends were invited to attend visitation in the Bisbee-Porcella Funeral Home, on Thursday June 5th followed by a funeral service in the funeral home. Entombment in Holy Cross Mausoleum in Malden. In lieu of flowers, donations in Maurice’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org. today, I kept asking myself, “How am I gonna do this?” I plagued my dad with questions on how to give this speech, and I was genuinely anxious. But somewhere between that panic and me speaking here today, I realized something important: growth doesn’t come from comfort. If I had turned down this opportunity, I would have missed a chance to push my limits and prove to myself that I’m more capable than I thought. So today, I stand here not as a perfect speaker by any means or a perfect writer, but as a student just like all of us, who has experienced growth. But today isn’t about me – it’s about all of those sitting here today in our red caps and gowns. So, class of 2025, I want to leave you all with one suggestion: to live life with intention. Lean into the unknown, 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 Beck, Alexander K Dinsdale, Scott L Peng, Wenzhe Szabo, Sandor BUYER2 Beck, Samara D Sato, Midori Zheng, Yu SELLER1 North East Const Svcs Inc Daddario, Albert Surabian, Ariana C Jpk Holdings Nt SELLER2 Surabian, Jacob W Coleman, Paul J of what city called “Hog Butcher for the World”? 1. June 13 is World Softball Day; the game was first called by other names, including what that includes an animal’s name? 2. What is a Trekkie? 3. The title of what 1902 novel by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle includes the name of a typeface? 4. On June 14, 1777, what group approved the national flag design of the Stars and Stripes? 5. On what TV star’s shows were the June Taylor Dancers featured? 6. In what year was the first known use of the term “snail mail”: 1982, 1990 or 2021? 7. The Bridge of Flowers is in what county with a Founding Father namesake? 8. June 15 is Father’s Day; in 2017 the Guinness World Record for largest game of catch on Father’s Day was in a suburb 9. What member of the “Rat Pack” is known for popularizing the song “That’s Life”? 10. The 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee winning word was éclaircissement, which means what? 11. What poet liked to stay in her family home and wrote, “To see the Summer Sky / Is Poetry, though never in a Book it lie – / True Poems flee –“? 12. On June 16, 1784, what country that is part of The Netherlands forbid wearing orange clothing? 13. How are computer glitch, insect and nonspecific sickness similar? ADDRESS 463 Central St 71 Hammersmith Dr 43 Staaf Rd 363 Central St CITY Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus 14. Who was the first U.S. president (from New England) who did not own slaves? 15. On June 17, 1775, was the Battle of Bunker Hill; which side had more casualties? 16. Which state (Wright Brothers were born there) was technically not a state until 1953? 17. June 18 is International Sushi Day; in 1958 why was conveyor belt sushi invented? 18. How are Springer, Cocker and King Charles similar? 19. In which state is the largest national park: Alaska, Nevada or New Mexico? 20. On June 19, 1897, Moe Howard was born; he was part of what threesome? DATE 05.23.25 05.20.25 05.23.25 05.23.25 PRICE 684000 935000 805000 660000 ANSWERS and don’t be afraid to stumble. As we all pursue our careers after high school, I encourage all of you to try new things and not fear failure. Famous statesman and American wartime leader Winston Churchill once said, “Success is stumbling from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm.” As we all move into a brandnew phase of our lives, we are all bound to be met with failure in some way. Whether it’s not getting the job we wanted, feeling lost in new surroundings, or simply making the wrong call, we will all face setbacks. But, amidst the immediate frustration or emotions we may feel, it’s important to realize the benefits failure holds. Failure doesn’t mean the end. It means we tried, and trying despite fear and uncertainty is how we will all grow. So, Class of 2025, as we step into this new THE SALUTATORIAN ADDRESS | SEE PAGE 21 1. Kitten ball 2. A Star Trek fan 3. “The Hound of the Baskervilles” (The Baskerville typeface was designed in 1757.) 4. Continental Congress 5. Jackie Gleason’s 6. 1982 7. Franklin County, Massachusetts 8. Chicago (about 2,000 participants) 9. Frank Sinatra (“…I know I’m gonna change that tune / when I’m back on top, back on top in June”) 10. “a clearing up of something obscure” 11. Emily Dickinson 12. Holland (The once French state of Orange was inspiration for dissidents wearing orange.) 13. They are all bugs. 14. John Adams 15. The British, although they won 16. Ohio (In 1802 the Ohio Constitution was approved, but Congress forgot to approve it.) 17. Osaka restaurant owner Yoshiaki Shiraishi wanted to streamline restaurant operations. 18. They are spaniel breeds. 19. Alaska (Wrangell-St. Elias National Park) 20. The Three Stooges

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 BEACON | FROM PAGE 19 Mon. June 2House11:00 a.m. to 11:04 a.m. Senate 11:13 a.m. to 11:23 We follow Social Distancing Guidelines! Licensed & Insured sion.. No Senate session. Wed. June 4House11:01 a.m. Free Estimates Carpentry * Kitchen & Bath * Roofs * Painting Decks * Siding * Carrijohomeimprovement.com Call 781-710-8918 * Saugus, MA General Contractor * Interior & Exterior C 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. 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 Page 21 a.m. Tues.June 3No House sesto4:00 p.m. No Senate session. Thurs. June 5House11:00 a.m. to 12:16 p.m. Senate 11:10 a.m. to 12:19 p.m. Fri. June 6No 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. THE SALUTATORIAN ADDRESS | FROM PAGE 19 chapter of our lives, don’t be afraid to try new things. Don’t be scared to get out of your comfort zone, you may even discover new passions. And don’t ever take failure as a final verdict; every failure is just a stepping stone on each of our paths to success. Our last four years prove our ability to stay resilient, so I inspire all of you to continue to do so in the years that follow. I know a lot of us here today are eager to leave, so I’ll keep this brief. Class of 2025, congratulations to each and every one of you here today. We did it. Thank you. Clean-Outs! We take and dispose from cellars, attics, garages, yards, etc. Call Robert at: 781-844-0472

Page 22 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, JUnE 13, 2025 SAUGUS FENWICK ‘CABRINI’ | FROM PAGE 7 of people came to our movie night, Deacon Frances and Joanne Gaff ney said. “The movie Cabrini is about our fi rst American Saint. It’s a beautiful and inspiring movie about her ministry to immigrants.” Cabrini knew as a child she was called to be a nun; she would pretend she was sending out her missionaries as she loaded her paper boats with fl owers then fl oated them down the river. In her imagination, the fl owers were her missionaries being shipped out into the world – remarkably, an exact blueprint of her future life. In 1889, Mother Cabrini was sent to New York by the Pope to minister to the Italian immigrants with her six Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. She combed rat-infested streets to fi nd and take in street orphans, later buying properties and building with entrepreneurial finesse. Eventually, Mother Cabrini sent out Missionaries all over the world to build orphanages fulfi lling her childhood visions. One of her known sayings was “I can do all things in Him who strengthens me.” New York Mayor Gould, whom she eventually SAUGUS FENWICK CLASS OF 2025: Eight Saugus residents recently graduated from Bishop Fenwick High School in Peabody. Pictured from left to right are Ava DiFelice, Caroline Salvo, Brayden Cliff ord, Ryan Hartigan, Colin Churches, Ashley Atkinson, Gabriella Maiuri and Aidan Chane. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) won over, said, “It’s a shame that you’re a woman mother,” to which Mother Cabrini replied, “Oh No, Mr. Mayor, men could not do what we do.” Mother Cabrini passed in December 22, 1917, at age 67. She became a Canonized Saint in 1946. She is the Patroness of Immigrants. TRINITY REAL ESTATE 321 MAIN STREET | SAUGUS, MA | VILLAGE PARK TrinityHomesRE.com Curious what your property is worth? Reach out today for a FREE market analysis specific to you and your home! Put your dreams in our hands! RENTAL-358 Broadway, 22, Lynn -Monthly: $2,700 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom condo located in Wyoma Village! Spacious living room which features a sliding door leading to your own private balcony. The open concept continues from the living room into the inviting eat in kitchen. The two bedrooms are adorned with wall-to-wall carpet and spacious closets. The building is professionally managed and includes a laundry room in the basement. One assigned off street parking spot, heat and hot water are included in the rent. Close to transportation, shopping, business, and restaurants. Listing Agent, Broker/Owner: Ronnie Puzon staura n 9 917.992.3689 781.231.9800 2 Inwood Drive, 3003, Woburn List Price: $799,900 Must see lovely 3-bedroom condominium at Deerpoint Condominiums featuring high ceilings and open floor plan that creates a spacious airy feel throughout.. Enjoy a cozy fireplace, in-unit laundry. and gourmet kitchen boasting stainless steel appliances and an oversized island, perfect for entertaining. 3rd bedroom currently being used as gym Additional highlights include a 2-car garage, 2 storage units. Listing Agent: Annemarie Torciva a 781.983.5266 RENTAL- 1 Carey Circle, 201, Revere Monthly: $3,000 AVAILABLE NOW AT POINT OF PINES CONDOMINIUMS! Spacious 2-bedroom, 2 full bath condo featuring a generous master suite designed for comfort and privacy. The sleek kitchen with stainless steel appliances is perfect for preparing your favorite meals. Enjoy the open-concept living space, which flows seamlessly to a private balcony~the perfect spot to relax and take in the ocean views and refreshing sea breeze Listing Agent: Lucia Ponte 781.883.8130 Providing Real Estate Services for Nearly Two Decades Servicing Saugus, Melrose, Wakefield, Malden, all North Shore communities, Boston and Beyond. Follow Us

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