SAUGUS Vol. 24, No. 28 -FREETh e Advocate–A household word in Saugus! OC C www.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday House blaze that killed two Saugus residents was electrical, fi re probe determines By Mark E. Vogler T he early morning fi re that claimed the lives of two elderly Saugus siblings last Saturday (July 10) was determined to be electrical, according to the fi ndings of a probe headed up by the state Fire Marshal’s Offi ce. “The joint investigation revealed that the fi re began in an interior attached porch at the front of the building, where numerous electrical and extension cords were observed in the debris,” the Fire Marshal’s Offi ce said in a press release issued yesterday. “All other sources of ignition, including foul play, have been ruled out,” it continued. In addition, investigators found no evidence of smoke alarms or carbon monoxide alarms in the home, it continued. Louis Gallo, 78, and his sister Rosemarie Naples, 80, died in the three-alarm house fi re that broke out at about 5:30 at 16 Richard St. Offi cials said they found Naples in a second fl oor bathroom and rushed to MelroseWakefi eld Hospital, where she later died of her injuries. Firefi ghters found Gallo’s lifeFATAL FIRE | SEE PAGE 13 “Ballard Gardens” unveiled Neighbors share a green vision of what the old Ballard School grounds could look like several years from now By Mark E. Vogler H ow about a fenced-in park that encompasses a gazebo, a community garden area, pools of water, benches, walkways where moms can wheel their baby carriages and a place where folks can walk their dogs? About 45 people – most of them residents from the neighborhood surrounding the town’s vacant and deteriorating Ballard School building and grounds – got to learn about the “Ballard Gardens” GARDENS | SEE PAGE 6 A FUTURE LOOK FOR THE OLD SCHOOL? Steve Rich, a retired architect and engineer, prepared this sketch of the “Ballard Gardens” proposal for a community meeting this week. Many residents who live near the old Ballard School said they like the proposal being considered as a future use of the property. (Saugus Advocate photos by Mark E. Vogler) A PASTOR’S BEST FRIEND: Father Jason “Jay” Makos, the new pastor of Saugus Catholics Collaborative, shows some love to his fi veyear-old Boston terrier, Thea, during a recent interview at the Collaborative’s offi ces at 14 Summer St. in Saugus. Father Jay will preside over an outdoor Mass on the grounds of Blessed Sacrament Church on Sunday, July 18. See inside for more photos and this week’s “The Advocate Asks.” (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) D O TE CAT 781-233-4446 Friday, July 16, 2021 WELCOME TO SAUGUS, FATHER JAY! ANGELO’S FULL SERVICE Regular Unleaded $2.859 Mid Unleaded $2.919 Super $3.079 Diesel Fuel $3.079 "42 Years of Excellence!" 1978-2020 KERO $4.65 DEF $3.49 9 Diesel $2.859 9 HEATING OIL 24-Hour Burner Service Call for Current Price! (125—gallon minimum) DEF Available by Pump! Open an account and order online at: www.angelosoil.com (781) 231-3500 (781) 231-3003 367 LINCOLN AVE • SAUGUS • OPEN 7 DAYS Prices subject to change Have a Happy & Safe Summer! FLEET
Page 2 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 Silencing the Sound WIN Waste Innovations offi cial credits a $2.39 B new silencer system with keeping the noise level down in recent turbine shutdown By Mark E. Vogler oard of Health members are happy about what they are hearing – or not hearing – this summer related to the noise emanating from the WIN Waste Innovations trash-to-energy plant on Route 107 in Saugus. Usually in the past, the board would field numerous neighborhood complaints about disruptive noise every time a turbine tripped and had to be shut down for maintenance at the former Wheelabrator plant. But things have been quiet so far this summer – even after the recent tripping of a turbine at the plant – an incident that would draw numerous neighborhood complaints in recent years. The installation of the new silencer at a cost of $750,000 is responsible for the lack of noise from the plant and the absence of complaints from the neighborhood, according to WIN Waste Innovations VP Peter DiCecco. “The newly installed silencer worked very well – worked like a charm,” DiCecco told the Board of Health during a Wednesday night (July 14) meeting conducted virtually via Zoom videoconferencing. DiCecco told the board that there were “no audible sounds from that silencer.” “It’s good seeing the investment there coming to fruition and doing its job,” DiCecco said. “Probably a year ago, you would probably be talking about it right now,” he added. Board of Health Chair William Heffernan was pleased with the progress the company has made in drastically reducing the sound. “Kudos to your team,” Heff ernan told DiCecco. “I heard about it,” he said of the recent turbine shutdown. “I did not receive any phone calls, which is odd when the turbine seems to go down,” Heff ernan said. “I just want to say ‘thank you’ to you and your entire team. That was a worthwhile investment and it seems to be paying off already. So, thank you very much,” he said. A consultant hired by WIN Waste Innovations determined that the new silencer installed at the plant this past spring could reduce the noise level from 96 decibels to 70 decibels – roughly the diff erence between the sound of a power mower and a vacuum cleaner. WIN Waste Innovations learned of the less-noisy alternative as a result of an ongoing consultant’s engineering study being performed as a condition of a state Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) consent order in response to numerous citizen noise complaints and enforcement action initiated by the Saugus Board of Health about two years ago. The noise emanating from the plant generated frequent complaints from Saugus, Revere and Lynn. But the Board of Health received no recent complaints from people in the three communities who were irked by the noise in the past, according to Heff ernan. In his briefing of Board of Health members, DiCecco noted other improvements at the plant, including a new fi re alarm system call box that has been programmed and is scheduled to be tested next week by the Saugus Fire Department. Heff ernan asked DiCecco for the company’s explanation of another recent instance of a company hauling low level radioactive wastes to the Saugus plant. DiCecco deferred to Plant Manager Chris Bourque for an explanation. Bourque told the Board of Health that censors at the plant detected the presence of a radioactive material – probably iodine – and the material was removed from the truck and processed. “I’ve seen two of these incidents in the last six months,” Heffernan said. “The censors worked as necessary,” he said. “It’s nice to know that when something gets in there before it gets into the plant, that you are able to fl ag it,” he said. Chelsea Jewish Lifecare Announces Vaccine Mandate for All Employees C Banking with a hometown touch. Open a free checking account with no monthly fees, and get access to Mobile Banking, Bill Pay and other features. Because no matter where you go, we’re right by you. Call or visit us to sign up. 419 BROADWAY, EVERETT MA 02149 61 7-38 7 - 1 1 10 7 7 1 SALEM ST, LYNNFIELD, MA 01940 781-7 76- 4444 WWW.EVERET TBANK . COM HESLEA AND PEABODY, MA (July 2021) – Chelsea Jewish Lifecare, a highly respected leader in healthcare with campuses in Chelsea and Peabody, announced today that it will require all employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Chelsea Jewish Lifecare is a founding member of Legacy Lifecare, a network of not-forprofit organizations that also includes JGS Lifecare VACCINE | SEE PAGE 12 Adam Berman President/CEO of Legacy Lifecare THIS WEEK ON SAUGUS TV Sunday, July 18 from 9 to 11:00 p.m. on Channel 8 – “Sunday Night Stooges” (The Three Stooges). Monday, July 19 all day on Channel 8 – “Movie Monday” (classic movies). Tuesday, July 20 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 9 – Planning Board Meeting from July 15. Wednesday, July 21 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 9 – Board of Health Meeting from July 14. Thursday, July 22 at 7 p.m. on Channel 9 – Board of Appeals Meeting ***live***. Friday, July 23 at 6 p.m. on Channel 8 – In the Beginning with John Gouvalaris. Saturday, July 24 at 1:30 p.m. on Channel 8 – MBTA Bus Right by you. Member FDIC Member DIF Network Redesign Meeting. Saugus TV can be seen on Comcast Channels 8, 9 & 22. For complete schedules, please visit www.saugustv.org. ***programming may be subject to change without notice***
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 Page 3 ~ THE ADVOCATE ASKS ~ Saugus Catholics Collaborative’s new pastor discusses being “a priest in recovery from alcoholism,” his tattoo, his Boston terrier and first impressions of Saugus Editor’s Note: For this week’s interview, we sat down with Father Jason “Jay” Makos, who recently became the new pastor of Saugus Catholics Collaborative. He replaces Father Tim Kelleher, who retired after leading the clerical staff of the two Saugus churches – Blessed Sacrament Parish and St. Margaret of Antioch Parish – for the past seven years. Father Jay, as he prefers to be called, is a 44-yearold native of the East Bridgewater and Brockton area. He has been very public in sharing his personal struggles with alcoholism with his parishioners, calling himself “a grateful member of Alcoholics Anonymous” who got sober in February of 2015. Father Jay insists it’s necessary to share that personal story because of his outspoken views that the Catholic Church locally and universally “must be radically transparent to move forward into the future with the vigor the Lord demands.” He says he beA PRIEST AND HIS DOG: Father Jason “Jay” Makos, the new pastor of Saugus Catholics Collaborative, enjoys a moment with his five-year-old Boston terrier, Thea. She is a special gift he received in February of 2016 – one that celebrated his 39th birthday and a year of sobriety. (Saugus Advocate photos by Mark E. Vogler) lieves that he can’t expect this type of transparency from the Church if he is not radically transparent about himself. Father Jay is a 1995 graduate of FREEDOM FROM FEAR: Father Jason “Jay” Makos said he always wanted to get a tattoo. But it wasn’t until after he achieved sobriety from an addiction treatment program for priests in Detroit that he got this one. It’s in Greek and it means “without fear.” East Bridgewater High School and began his college career at Massasoit Community College, where he obtained an associate in science degree. He grew up Greek Orthodox and a person with deep faith in God. A pilgrimage to Canada later influenced his decision to accept full communion with the Catholic Church at an Easter Vigil in 1996. While attending UMass Boston, he visited Saint Anthony Shrine on Arch Street in Boston frequently. After a semester at UMass Boston, he went to Boston College, where he studied psychology. Feeling a call to the priesthood, he entered Saint John’s Seminary College in Brighton in 1998. After three years, he completed a bachelor's degree in liberal arts at Saint John’s and received a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. In the summer of 2001, he went to Rome to the North American ColASKS | SEE PAGE 4 AN ADVOCATE FOR TRANSPARENCY: A key reason why Father Jason “Jay” Makos says he’s been very public about his past struggles with alcoholism is that he’s been advocating for more transparency by the Catholic Church, both locally and globally. He says he can’t take that bold stand without being transparent about himself, which means talking freely about his alcohol addiction.
Page 4 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 ASKS | FROM PAGE 3 lege and studied at the Gregorian University. Cardinal O'Malley ordained him to the priesthood at Holy Cross Cathedral on May 21, 2005. He returned to Rome to complete his licentiate in sacred theology degree. He left Rome in July 2006 with a licentiate in sacred theology and began his first parish assignment as a parochial vicar at St. Mary’s in Foxboro. Father Jay later served as Administrator in Amesbury, Pastor in Whitman, Pastor in Dorchester and – most recently – six years as Parochial Vicar at St. Agatha’s in Milton before beginning his new assignment as the Pastor of the Saugus Catholic Collaborative on June 1. His hobbies include reading, traveling, fishing, computers, gaming, cooking and “a good cigar!” He’s a Boston sports fan. He is also an avid animal lover and was gifted Thea, a five-year-old brown Boston terrier, for his birthday and sobriety anniversary. It was on Feb. 23, 2015 – one day before his 38th birthday – that Father Jay began a 100day program at Guest House in Detroit, an addiction treatment center for Catholic clergy. He received Thea a year later as a birthday present and to celebrate a year of sobriety. Upon successful completion of his program at Guest House, he took a break from the pressures of being a pastor by accepting an assistant priest position (parochial vicar) at St. Agatha’s Parish in Milton before accepting the challenges A.B.C. CIGAR 170 REVERE ST., REVERE (781) 289-4959 Same Location * Same Service for over 49 Years! CIGAR GIFT PACKS UNDER $50 Chris Dan Steve Cigar Accessories ---------GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE Summer Is Here & So Are We! 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As I went on that, I started thinking about faith and belief in God, and that got the wheels turning about – there’s something about the Catholic Church – and I ended up coming into the church in 1996. And when I came into the church, I started seeing the appeal of becoming a priest and thought that was something I could do, and loved it. Obviously, the greatest challenge was not being able to have a wife and children. It’s a big sacrifice. Q: Now later you developed a drinking problem. Did you drink before becoming involved in the priesthood? A: I did. We always have that point when younger people start to drink. I would say – somebody else might say it was a huge problem – it didn’t become a huge problem, probably, until later. I would say – when I got to Rome is when I learned to drink alcoholically. But it’s in my blood; there’s no question, and as the disease does … Q: You have some people in your family … A: There is some family background, so that’s definitely a component to it. And it’s so progressive – a progressive disease – and then it got to a point where … I hadn’t gotten pulled over, yet; or harmed myself, yet; or harmed anybody else, yet. But my day-to-day work was suffering greatly. Q: So, you were well into your church career when the alcoholism manifested itself? A: Very much so. It really kind of came to a head in Dorchester, but certainly it affected all of my assignments. Q: Did you volunteer to get help, or was there an intervention that got you to seek help? A: There was an intervention. The Archdiocese of Boston is phenomenal with the way that they reach out to their priests who are alcoholic. So, a couple of priests from the Diocese came in and asked me some questions, and I was generally forthright. And then they basically said that there is an opportunity to go and get a kind of a health check at this Guest House, which I was aware of. As a priest, I was aware of Guest House, because that’s the place priests go if they have problems, so in February of 2015, while still pastor in Dorchester, I went to Guest House in Detroit to get sober. Q: In your case, was it hard stuff? What was it? A: Mostly hard. Gin was my drink of choice. At the worst point, I would be drinking a 1.7 liter bottle of gin every two or three days, so it was obviously a problem. And my health was horrific. My blood pressure was triple-triple. I could feel it. And when they asked, I knew deep down inside that something’s wrong. Q: How high was the triple-triple? A: When I got to Guest House, they did this whole thing – and I was months away from a stroke. I couldn’t tell you the numbers, but I do remember sitting in a chair like this with my feet up and just resting, and my heartbeat was so strong, you could see my legs move. I could always feel it. And with that, I had high anxiety, which I still struggle with, too. But the alcoholism and active drinking just exacerbated that and really had a disastrous effect on my health. Q: Were you ever intoxicated at services? A: No, I never was – yet. I didn’t get to the point of that, so I mostly, during the work days, was drinking in the afternoon and evening. Q: And you never got in trouble with the law? A: Not yet. I haven’t yet. Q: You said, “not yet.” Never? A: No, I never had issues with that. In recovery, we always say “yet.” Again, I think it was certainly a blessing from God that the guys from the Diocese came and helped. And there was another priest, Father Tom McDonald, who was my parochial vicar in Dorchester. He really saw the way I was acting; he had seen the bottles going down, so I believe he had called the Diocese, and that’s when they, kind of, came, so he really was integral. And I was forever grateful for brothers and sisters who can help you. Q: How many years would you say you had the problem? A: I would say I probably started drinking at about 16 or 17. And it just escalated little by little, all the way to my late 30s. It was a long, slow progression. Q: And you’ve been six years sober now? A: Yes. Six and a half. I’ve become an active, grateful member of AA [Alcoholic Anonymous]. I love being public about it and sharing [my experience]. Q: You probably get some static from being public about it. A: Almost never. I do get the occasional “Oh, is it really approASKS | SEE PAGE 5
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 Page 5 ASKS | FROM PAGE 4 priate for a priest to talk about it when they say it is supposed to be anonymous?” In AA, you can use a public person to the advantage. People are people, whether you are the Pope or whether you’re a mill worker – whatever you are – everybody. If you are human, we all have struggles. And, somewhat selfishly, the more I’m public about it, the more it helps me. As they say, the more you give, the more you get. And it’s faith-based, so my faith and trust in God over the last six and a half years has really helped. I’ve seen God in the recovery process, probably more than I ever did before. Q: So, it reinvigorates your faith? A: For sure. I recommitted myself to being a priest. I can honestly say – there’s daily struggles in everything – each day it gets better and better, because I love being a priest. Q: So, I guess there was an intervention before you did something really outrageous. A: Yes, essentially that. It got to the point where I was not doing assignments – or cancelling meetings in the parish – just not staying on top of work and following up on things, even with the staff. I think they saw it. It was a challenging assignment that I had, because there were a lot of moving parts, so you need somebody who is really on top of their game. And I just wasn’t, so it [the intervention] was a blessing. Q: Now, please tell me about your tattoo. I haven’t seen a minister or priest with a tattoo before. A: Yeah. I’m sure they’re out there. You know, I’ve always grown up wanting to get tattoos. My dad’s got one. I’ll be honest: I wasn’t sure how appropriate it is as a priest to get a tattoo. The tattoos that I do have, I have them semi-covered. But I always wanted one, and the “no fear” kind of spoke to me, and I decided to get that. Q: So, that was sort of like celebrating your sobriety, getting that tattoo? A: Yeah, it would be – celebrating sobriety as well as knowing that I was so afraid to do something before because of what other people would think. Q: And the tattoo is in Greek? A: It’s in Greek and it means “without fear.” It comes from the word phobia. In the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous, it says the little word, fear, it leads to everything in life. The more afraid we are as alcoholics – it feeds our drinking. The biggest thing is, when we trust in God fears melt away; so for me, it’s a deep connection with God as well, albeit a tattoo being an atypical way, especially for a priest. Q: Another thing I noticed right away when I first met you: your biceps. You’re clearly a man who works out. A: Yes. Q: And I don’t see too many priests who are athletic. A: Yes. The lifestyle – like anybody working – you get so busy; it’s so easy to get into quick and easy foods. If there was a poster child for “unhealthy,” it was me: with bad eating, no exercise, smoking cigarettes. I smoked three packs of cigarettes a day. That’s the epitome of unhealthy. But then when I got sober, the important part was the whole picture: healthy eating, working out. I lift weights and work out twice a week. Q: Did you have a weight problem? A: I would say – up and down – not a humongous weight problem, but I was always conscious about it. I have slight high blood pressure, so it really affects it. Q: Before your recovery, what was the highest blood pressure you had? A: Honestly, I can’t say with surety, but it was probably 130 to 140 over 100. It was crazy. It was enough that when I told the vicar at the time, he literally jumped out of his seat and said, “Jay, you’re going to be dead.” So, that was one of the parts where I said, “Yeah, I need to do something about it.” And to be extremely transparent about it is huge for me. From my standpoint, I can’t expect the church to be transparent if I can’t be transparent. In those last days before I got sober, I had thoughts of suicide – of ways to get out to essentially avoid embarrassment. But then you start to realize, as St. Paul says, “Power and weakness.” My weakness is power because I let God do it. Q: So, you found sobriety in Detroit? A: In Detroit. Lake Orion is where the original Guest House was. Guest House was established many years ago by a layman to help priests, bishops and deacons to get sober. Q: What’s the percentage of priests in recovery? And how big a problem is this in the Catholic Church? A: It’s hard to say. When I was in Guest House, there were 13 to 18 of us. Q: And how many months were you there? A: I was there from February 23 until June 4 of 2015, so it’s essentially about 100 days or so. And during that time, you don’t have the freedom to go out. It’s very much like a sober house for others, but it’s really geared toward Catholic clergy. Q: I understand your dog is special because she was a birthday present, but was also to celebrate your sobriety? A: We grew up with dogs. My parents and my friend were able to get the dog as a gift, and it symbolizes sobriety and a life. And I get to share her with people. She’s a good gift. And her name – Thea – in Greek, it means healing, so it seems appropriate. Q: Now, you made an announcement to the church when you first came about your sobriety? A: When I was named the pastor here, I wrote a simple bio. It was one of the first things I did. I said I’m a Catholic priest and I’m in recovery. I’m very open about it and transparent. And that’s been my MO [modus operandi] ever since. Q: And how have people reacted to it? A: The only reaction is that people will come up and say, “Oh Father, I’m in AA.” My first weekend here, I probably had about 15 to 20 people in the community mentioning that – and that’s just over the first weekend. I find that the more honest and transparent we are as priests, I think, the more effective we can be as tools for God. Q: What are your impressions of Saugus? A: My first impressions are great. I love that people are hardworking, kind and gritty. And I think that’s where I fit in really well. That’s kind of, hopefully, my style. There’s a relaxed nature to the community, which I love. Q: Any plans or programs you want to share or talk about? A: Obviously, with everybody, whether it be religious or civil, we’re kind of getting back on our feet slowly but surely. I envisage a continuation of what’s been done by Father Tim and other past members here: that Saugus Catholics Collaborative has been a welcoming community, and I want to have a radical welcoming of people and let Gerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law Is Your Estate in Order? Do you have an update Will, Health Care Proxy or Power of Attorney? If Not, Please Call for a Free Consultation. 14 Proctor Avenue, Revere (781) 284-5657 people know they are welcome to come in. It’s kind of the principal lens that I want to use to look through everything. Q: On the political spectrum, from liberal to conservative, where do you fit in? A: It’s kind of hard to say. I guess I would put myself somewhat in the middle of the road. As I get older, I find myself leaning more toward libertarian, but I certainly have conservative values. That’s why the Catholic Church spoke to me years ago in 1996. Q: Do you have any thoughts about the controversy with the President? [The view from church leaders that President Biden and other politicians should be denied communion ASKS | SEE PAGE 16
Page 6 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 GARDENS | FROM PAGE 1 proposal on Monday (July 12) and offer some feedback. Most of the neighbors who spoke said they like the concept of tearing down the old schoolhouse and beautifying the area for passive recreation – an ideal place where kids can play and grownups can relax. “This can be a source of pride for this neighborhood,” Precinct 10 Town Meeting Member Peter Manoogian told the group of citizens who lined the four walls of a classroom inside the school when the threat of rainy weather spoiled their plans to meet outdoors. A SHOW OF SUPPORT: East Saugus residents at Monday’s community meeting on the “Ballard Gardens” proposal raised their hands in favor of one idea being considered for reuse of the old Ballard School. Manoogian, one of the members of the five-person study committee to investigate the potential use of the Ballard School, organized the meeting to brief neighbors on a proposal he has developed in collaboration with Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree’s office. Toward the end of the meeting, Manoogian asked for a show of hands on how many people supported the proposal. A majority of people in the room raised their hands, reinforcing comments of overwhelming vocal support from residents in the neighborhood during the community meeting. The Ballard Gardens is still just a preliminary proposal, but one that seems to be gaining momentum. Manoogian suggested the next step should be the creation of a three-person advisory group consisting of one member from each of the three key streets in the area near the school: Dudley, Greenwood and Richard. Support from Town Hall Town officials who attended the meeting expressed strong support for the project. Jeannie Meredith, of Crabtree’s Town Hall staff, in an interview after the meeting called the proposal “a great idea.” “I love the idea of having a community garden and a spot for the gazebo,” Meredith said. “In today’s world, to have an outdoor space where people can relax and enjoy nature is very appealing,” she said. The project, if realized, would augment other open space projects already planned or underway – particularly the Saugus RiverWalk Project along Ballard Street near the banks of the Saugus River and the Northern Strand Community Trail, according to Meredith. “This could connect nicely with those and other projects involving open space, going from one end of the town to the other, '' she said. In an interview after the meeting, Board of Selectmen Chair Anthony Cogliano said he likes the Ballard Gardens proposal. “Sure, I would endorse it,” Cogliano told The Saugus Advocate. “And I know I can get volunteers to take care of the property,” he said. Town Manager Crabtree commended the way residents in the neighborhood were organizing to show their support for the proposal. “I think the positive thing is having people from this neighborhood involved from the beginning and being able to put their support behind the project,” Crabtree said. “You have Peter and people involved in this who have a track record of following things through, he added. When residents turn out to show support for projects they want to see in their neighborhood, “it’s good input that makes my job easier,” CrabGARDENS | SEE PAGE 8 KEEP THESE FOR HISTORY’S SAKE: Precinct 10 Town Meeting Member Peter Manoogian suggested that these columns at the front entrance of the 110-year-old Ballard School be salvaged and incorporated as a nostalgic feature in the “Ballard Gardens” proposal.
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 Page 7 Michael Rossetti Joins The Savings Bank as Vice President–Cash Management Offi cer W AKEFIELD – Michael Rossetti has joined The Savings Bank as Vice President – Cash Management Officer where he will be responsible for working with the Bank’s business banking customers and local businesses to provide cash management sales and services. Michael has extensive experience in commercial deposit products and services, with a focus on the sale, implementation, and servicing of all Cash Management products to new and existing business customers. Before joining The Savings Bank, he was Vice President, Cash Management Officer at Stoneham Bank where he was responsible for creating and updating Cash Management marketing plans and developing and executing sales strategies to implement Cash Management products and sales activities with commercial lenders and retail branches. His expertise includes knowledge of related state and federal banking compliance regulations, bank policies and procedures, and bank products and services sales, product development, implementation, customer service, ey Organization as a representative of the United States in Italy, the Boston Bruins Organization, and the Herlev Hockey Organization as a representative of the United States in Denmark. He received his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of New Hampshire, Whittemore School of Business and is a graduate of the New England School of Financial Studies. Michael is on the Board of Michael Rossetti VP/Cash Management Offi cer relationship management and marketing. Michael has also worked with Northern Bank as an Assistant Vice President, Cash Management. Prior to his more than eight years in Cash Management, Michael had close to 20 years’ experience as part of residential mortgage lending and closing teams. Before his association with the fi nancial and banking industry he was a professional hockey player with the Selva HockDirectors of NuPath, Inc. Human Services Agency where he serves as Vice Chair. He has also served as a Team Captain for New England Area Walk for Autism Speaks. “The Savings Bank welcomes Michael Rossetti as Vice President – Cash Management Officer,” Bob DiBella, President and CEO of The Savings Bank said. “He brings a wealth of knowledge of cash management and a successful record of growing deposits, developing teams, and managing business processes which have led to long-lasting relationships with customers and commercial lenders. We look forward to working with him at the Bank’s Main Offi ce in Wakefi eld.” Saugus Catholics Collaborative welcomes new pastor with an outdoor Mass on July 18 if you are coming to the Mass. Fr. Jay, as he likes to be known, has expressed his appreciation for the warm Saugus welcome he has been given. “This Mass is so very special in that it not only welcomes me to the congregation, it also signifi es the revitalization of the Saugus Catholic community as we move beyond the diffi cult events of the last year and into a bright future for our Church and our town,” he said. AUTOTECH 1989 SINCE Is your vehicle ready for the Summer Season?!! Recharge your vehicle's AC for the warm weather! Includes up to 1 LB. of Refrigerant* (*Most Vehicles/Some Restrictions May Apply) AC SPECIAL Only $69.95 DRIVE IT - PUSH IT - TOW IT! CASH FOR YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR SUV! 2012 HONDA PILOT EXL 2011 FORD FESTIVA Loaded, One Owner, Sunroof, Back-up Camera, Warranty, Only 101K Miles! TRADES WELCOME! $15,900 Financing Available! Only 105K Miles, Clean Title, Save Money on Gas! Great Commuter Car! TRADES WELCOME! $5,995 (781) 321-8841 • (617) 571-9869 Easy 1236 EasternAve • Malden EddiesAutotech.com Vehicle! We Pay Cash For Your Father Jason Makos B lessed Sacrament Parish and St. Margaret’s Parish will be welcoming our new pastor, Fr. Jason Makos, at an outdoor Mass on July 18 on the grounds of Blessed Sacrament Church. The Mass will begin at 11 a.m., and there will be a Coff ee Hour immediately following the Mass in the church hall. Everyone is welcome to join both the Mass and the Coff ee Hour; we do ask that you bring your own chair
Page 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 Public health nurse warns people to “stay vigilant” in spite of declining COVID-19 cases in Saugus By Mark E. Vogler A fter experiencing a week without any newly confirmed COVID-19 cases, the town has reported four new cases over the past eight days. “As of today, Saugus has had 4,216 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 73 confirmed deaths since 03/01/2020,” Town Manager Scott C. CrabGARDENS | FROM PAGE 6 tree said. “I’m very supportive and glad to be a part of this,” Crabtree said The Ballard School is just one of five former Saugus Public tree wrote in an email to The Saugus Advocate yesterday. But four cases in over a week is hardly a concern for town officials after yesterday’s briefing of the Board of Health by town Public Health Nurse Teresa Riley-Singh. “We’re definitely in a good place,” Riley-Singh said during a virtual meeting conducted via Zoom videoconferencing. “It’s still out there,” she addSchools building properties that will be the subject of study for possible reuse in town over the next few years. Saugus Public Schools and school administration have consolidated into three buildings – largely because of the construction and Law Offices of Terrence W. Kennedy 512 Broadway, Everett • Criminal Defense • Personal Injury • Medical Malpractice Tel: (617) 387-9809 Cell: (617) 308-8178 twkennedylaw@gmail.com ed, stressing that town residents needed to be vigilant in practicing safe precautions because “the numbers are rising in other states” as there are outbreaks of variants. There were only eight newly confirmed COVID-19 cases reported last month, a huge drop from the 37 COVID-19 cases reported in June of last year. Riley-Singh noted that Sauopening of the new Saugus Middle-High School and renovations of the Veterans Memorial School and the Belmonte School. The School Department no longer has a need for three elementary schools: the Waybright Elementary School, the Lynnhurst Elementary School and the Oaklandvale Elementary School. In addition, the school administrative staff have moved out of the Roby School Administration Building on Main Street and into the Belmonte School. The town will eventually consider what to do with these properties. Tearing down the school would be “huge expense” Town officials generally concede that the old Ballard School is not worth saving, but shouldn’t be sold because the town needs to hold on to its limited number of vacant properties. “I think the biggest expense that people don’t realize is abating what’s here,” Crabtree said of gus reached its monthly peak with 1,095 cases reported last December. She emphasized that it’s still important for residents to get vaccinated if they haven’t already because of the spread of the Delta variant and other strains of COVID-19. But even with a vaccination, “you’re not 100 percent safe,” Riley-Singh added. “I encourage people who go into food stores to have their the future challenges ahead before the Ballard Gardens could become a reality. “It’s a huge expense just to bring the building down,” the town manager said. “The conceptual stuff (feasibility studies and engineering) can happen sooner than later. The demolition part is 10-fold the cost of the project,” Crabtree said, referring to the huge expense of removing asbestos and other potentially hazardous materials during the demolition. Manoogian noted that the Ballard School was built in 1911. “It’s older than the Titanic,” he said, referring to the famous White Star Line ocean liner that sank after hitting an iceberg four days into its maiden voyage from Southampton, England, to New York City on April 15, 1912. More than 1,500 lost their lives in the disaster. Steve Rich, a retired architect and engineer who prepared a sketch of Ballard Gardens, said a key issue for the project’s planners to consider is if it were open all night or closed at 10 p.m. Keeping the park open at night would require illumination. But Crabtree said that lighting would be essential for security purposes and protecting the town’s investment even if the park closed at night. “Being an ex-cop [on the Saugus Police Department for 11 years], I can tell you that having lighting allows you to drive around in a cruiser to see it,” Crabtree said. Crabtree told the group his office stands ready to support the project however it can. But if residents were to decide they want flowers for a community garden, the town’s Department of Public Works would not be maintaining the garden. Volunteers would be needed to maintain the garden, he said. Laura Eisener of the Saugus Garden Club, a landscape design consultant, said she would like to see a fairly simple plant selection that would involve “very low maintenance.” “There children wear masks,” she said. Public Health Director John Fralick said 62 percent of Saugus residents have been vaccinated as of July 1. Board of Health Chair William Heffernan said there is no reason for anyone who hasn’t had a vaccination to walk into the local CVS and receive one. “I had to basically drag my 23-year-old son to the CVS to get his shots,” he said. are quite a few things that require a minimum of maintenance. There’s going to be some weeding necessary,” Eisener said. Who’s going to maintain Ballard Gardens? How the park would be maintained was a concern of a few residents, particularly Margie Berkowitch, who has complained in the past about the unsightly mess of litter and leaves strewn around the Ballard School grounds. “My issue would be maintenance. The town doesn’t do a good job of maintenance,” Berkowitch said. Brenda Sweetland, a Dudley Street resident, said she prefers to see the vacant building be used as a schoolhouse again, adding “I know my property values would double.” As a resident who lives across the street from the school, Sweetland said, she has an issue with drugs in the neighborhood. She referred to one incident near her house where she observed “two kids fighting over drugs.” “There was a gun on the ground and I have a kid in my house,” she said. Two Precinct 10 Town Meeting members who were unable to attend the community meeting offered letters of support. Darren Ring called the Ballard Gardens proposal “the best possible idea for our area.” “At the end of the day, it is my hope that this site will become an attractive public and green space for many of the residents of East Saugus, especially those who live nearby to it,” Town Meeting Member Martin J. Costello wrote in his letter. Manoogian said he was encouraged by the meeting, noting that it was very productive. “Fantastic turnout by neighbors of the Ballard School,” he wrote on the Ballard School Study Committee Facebook page. “We heard great feedback and questions about process, security, design, property values and landscaping
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 Page 9 Installation of lights begins at World Series Park (Editor’s Note: The following info is from a press release issued by World Series Park this week.) I sland Lighting & Power started installing the lights at World Series Park in Saugus last Wednesday. The recent extreme rain has caused challenges to the installation process, but it will continue. “We’re happy to finally start the project and can’t wait to complete the installation, which might take a lot longer than planned because of the weather,” World Series Park Superintendent Bob Davis said. “We very much appreciate those people who continue to donate to our Lighting Fund.” The World Series Park Lighting Fund is still looking for donors since the total cost for the lights and installation has come up short. Anyone who donates $100 or more can get their name or the name of a departed loved one on the permanent lighting READY TO ROLL: A Benevento Companies truck arrives at World Series Park to deliver concrete for lighting installation. All the concrete is being donated by Benevento Companies. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) fund plaque and will be invited to the dedication ceremony and reception, which will be held as soon as the lights are installed. Donations can be made by sending a check payable to KEY GROUNDWORK: Concrete was poured in a hole that houses the precast footing that will support the light pole. The installation of the whole system is being done by Island Lighting & Power. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) World Series Park at 8 Holden Ave., Saugus, MA 01906. Donations can also be made online by going to worldseriespark.net and doing it through the GoFundMe Charity account. Rep. Wong calls for increased transparency in conducting House sessions, committee hearings and polls (Editor’s Note: The following info is from a press release issued by the office of state Rep. Donald Wong [R-Saugus] this week.) B OSTON – State Representative Donald H. Wong recently opposed a new House rules package, saying it does not go far enough to ensure increased transparency in the way the House of Representatives and its legislative committees operate. House Order 3930, which establishes permanent House rules for the 2021-2022 legislative sessions, was approved on a vote of 129-29 on July 12 as Order H.3932 (after amendments). The Order provides for the continued livestreaming of both informal and formal House sessions and authorizes House committee chairs to hold hearings allowing for both in-person and virtual testimony from the public on pending legislation but does not include a series of additional reforms supported by Representative Wong. The House has been operating under temporary emergency rules since last year, due to health and safety concerns associated with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The emergency rules, which were set to expire on July 15, have allowed members to participate Aluminum Everett 10 Everett Ave., Everett 617-389-3839 Owned & operated by the Conti family since 1958 • 63 Years! “Same name, phone number & address for over half a century. We must be doing something right!” Owned & operated by the Conti family since 1958 • 57 Years! family since 1958 • 60 •Vinyl Siding •Carpentry Work •Decks •Vinyl Siding •Free Estimates •Fully Licensed •Roofing •Free Estimates •Carpentry Work •Fully Licensed •Decks •Roofing • Fully Insured • Replacement Windows www.everettaluminum.com Now’s the time to schedule those home improvement projects you’ve been dreaming about all winter! Everett Aluminum in formal sessions and cast roll call votes remotely, in order to limit the number of members physically present in the House Chamber. Representative Wong said the newly adopted House rules incorporate the provisions of the emergency rules so they can be implemented in the event of a future state of emergency. However, the new rules also limit the use of emergency rules to no more than 30 days at a time, with a majority vote of the membership required to reauthorize the emergency rules for an additional 30 days. In a separate vote, the House approved extending the temporary emergency rules until October 1, giving members the option to continue voting remotely until that time. Representative Wong opposed the extension, which passed on a vote of 13030, saying it is unfair for legislators to continue operating under a different set of rules now that the rest of the state has already reopened. The permanent House rules retain the requirement that copies of all bills be made available to members and the public at least 24 hours in advance of House debate. An attempt to expand this requirement to a minimum of 48 hours, which was backed by Representative Wong, failed on a vote of 39-119. During floor debate, Representative Wong supported an amendment filed by the House Republican leadership team requiring that all committee polls be open for a minimum of two hours. He said this would give legislators time to properly review the bills being polled and to make a more informed decision when casting their votes. The amendment failed on a vote of 35-124. Representative Wong also supported two similar transparency amendments, one filed by Republicans, and one filed by REP. WONG | SEE PAGE 14 Summer is Here!
Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS By Mark E. Vogler H ere are a few tidbits that you might want to know about this week in Saugus. Another political season begins Monday – July 19 – is the unofficial start to this year’s town political season. It happens every two years. Voters in the town’s 10 precincts will go to the polls in November to cast their ballot for candidates they would like to see on the five-member Board of Selectmen, the five-member School Committee, the 50-member Town Meeting and the Housing Authority – if there are vacant or expired seats. So, on Monday, candidates considering political office will be able to pick up their nomination papers at the Town Clerk’s Office. For those who are interested, here’s something you can cut out and tape or attach to your refrigerator: Town of Saugus Election Calendar for 2021 Here are some important dates released by the Saugus Town Clerk’s Office: July 19: Local election nomination papers become available. Sept. 7 at 5 p.m.: Last day for incumbent Town Meeting Members wishing to become a candidate for reelection to submit written notice to the Town Clerk. Sept. 10 at 5 p.m.: Last day to OBTAIN nomination papers. Sept. 14 at 5 p.m.: Last day for candidates to SUBMIT nomination papers to the Board of Registrars (Town Clerk’s Office) for certification of signatures. Sept. 30 at 5 p.m.: Last day to file objections or withdrawals. Sept. 30 at 5:30 p.m.: Drawing of ballot positions (Town Hall Auditorium). Oct. 13 from 8:15 a.m.-8 p.m.: Last day to register to vote. Fifty certified signatures of registered voters are required for the Board of Selectmen, School Committee and Housing Authority. Ten certified signatures of registered voters are required for Town Meeting Members. Signatures must be of registered voters in the candidate’s precinct. Oct. 26: Office of Campaign Finance Reports are due on this Monday, the 8th day preceding the election. Nov. 2: Town Elections. Dec. 2: Office of Campaign Finance Reports are due on the 30th day following the election All candidates are expected to comply with the Town of Saugus Zoning Bylaws (Article 7, Section 7.3, Sub-Section 8) regarding political signs. Guy and “the angels” are back Sunday On Sunday, July 18 the Moms Cancer Fighting Angel’s relay team returns to Fuddruckers Saugus for their 6th Annual Car Show Cruise Night to benefit the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life of Wakefield. The event will feature many classic and antique cars, trucks and motorcycles. “There will be raffles and a 50/50 – and new this year, we will have a soc hop area where you can dance to not only juke box music, but a live performance from Jay Dehart,” says event organizer Guy Moley. The event will run from 4 to 8 p.m. “We ask that you bring your family and friends and come hungry because Fuddruckers will be generously donating 20 percent of all food sales to the American Cancer Society,” Moley says. “In the event of rain, we will postpone the show until the following Sunday. Remember it all takes place at Fuddruckers Saugus, at 900 Broadway, the Route 1 North home of the world’s greatest hamburgers. For any questions about the event feel free to contact the team Capt Guy Moley 781640-1310.” GUESS WHO GOT SKETCHED! In this week’s edition, we continue our weekly feature where a local artist sketches people, places and things in Saugus. Got an idea who was sketched this week? If you do, please email me at mvoge@comcast.net or leave a phone message at 978-683-7773. Anyone who correctly identifies the Saugonian being sketched between now and Tuesday at noon qualifies to have their name put in a green Boston Red Sox hat with a chance to be selected as the winner of a $10 gift certificate, compliments of Dunkin’ at the 1204 Broadway Saugus location on Route 1 North. But you have to enter to win! Look for the winner and identification in next week’s “The Sounds of Saugus.” Please leave your mailing address in case you are a winner. (Courtesy illustration to The Saugus Advocate by a Saugonian who goes by the name of “The Sketch Artist”) A “Shout-Out” for benevolent strangers We didn’t receive any nominations this week from readers recommending good candidates worthy of an extra “Shout-Out” – a little public praise for unsung heroes who contribute to the betterment of the town through good deeds or remarkable acts of kindness or accomplishing something significant. In that case, I shall use my editorial discretion to nominate those benevolent strangers who are out there in town restaurants, spreading some good cheer by picking up the tab for people they don’t even know. Every town has got to have a few of these generous people who derive great satisfaction in paying for somebody else’s meal or meals while remaining anonymous. It’s got to be happening in Saugus as well as virtually every community across the state – because it’s happened to me twice since last Thanksgiving. Once when a man sitting in a bar adjacent to a dining room in White’s of Westport picked up the restaurant check for my brother and me; that bill was close to $100; the second time was back in late May when I was enjoying a salmon salad at one of my favorite places in the Merrimack Valley – the Grill Next Door in Haverhill. It was a Thursday night, and I decided to grab something healthy, but tasty to eat, along with some chili and a couple of cold glasses of Allagash White on draft. I tried to find out from my waitress who paid the bill, but she wouldn’t say, other than that a stranger decided to treat me to the meal. At least back in November my brother and I got to thank the stranger personally. Normally these benevolent “gifters” don’t want to be identified. At least, that’s what restaurant waitresses have told me in the past. The free meal back in May was the third time it’s happened to me in my life. Several years ago, while eating alone at the Olive Garden at The Loop in Methuen, an anonymous person paid for my meal. I never found out who it was that time either. It’s very apparent that there are kind people out there in restaurants performing unusual acts of kindness by picking up the dinner or lunch tab for people they don’t even know. Hats off to the folks in Saugus who do that. A “Shout-Out” for Father Jay Also deserving of a super “Shout-Out” is Father Jason “Jay” Makos, the new pastor of Saugus Catholics Collaborative. He deserves lots of praise for his very public and forthright discussion of his personal struggles with alcoholism, which have led to six and a half years of sobriety. Father Jay is the subject of “The Advocate Asks” interview appearing in “The Saugus Advocate” this week. In my five-plus years as the editor, I’ve had some very compelling interviews with men and women leaders of the Saugus Faith Community. But it was quite unusual to interview a local clerical leader who has already shared his experiences with his parishioners about his past drinking problems from the outset of his arrival in town. I knew it was going to be a different kind of interview when Father Jay greeted me a couple of Fridays ago in a relaxed wardrobe and the tattoo visible on his right arm. He also struck me as a priest who works out regularly, lifting weights. He’s a very friendly guy who would seem like good company at a New England Patriots or Boston Red Sox game. In fact, he prides himself on being a Boston sports fan. And he said he’s gone to games at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, where the Patriots play their home games. And there’s something else very special about him. He’s got a five-year-old Boston terrier named Thea, who is very unique. Father Jay introduced her to me as “a gift for sobriety” he received on the first anniversary of his achieving sobriety. This dog is so friendly that she began high-fiving me shortly after I met Father Jay at the Saugus Catholics Collaborative office. High-fiving me, like I THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | SEE PAGE 11
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 Page 11 THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | FROM PAGE 10 was her buddy! 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 We have a winner! Congratulations to Susan McBride for getting her name drawn from the green Boston Red Sox hat as the winner in last week’s “Guess Who Got Sketched” Contest. Here’s last week’s answer, offered by the person who goes by the name of The Sketch Artist: “The answer to last week’s sketch is Saugus High Graduate 2009 Joe Vecchione! “Joe earned his Master’s degree in Architecture. “And he is serving the final year of his first twoyear term as a Precinct 2 Town Meeting Member “Joe also is the Chair of the Town’s Cliftondale Revitalization Committee. Recently June 28, Joe was seen at the Saugus Town Meeting MEG Center with a Power Point presentation of his research, and shared ideas from residents of how and what would Saugus residents like to see in a revitalized Cliftondale Square. “And as if he doesn’t have enough to do in public service to his hometown, Joe was recently appointed to the Saugus Planning Board. “Joe is a lifelong resident of Saugus, and is a homeowner in Cliftondale with his wife Katie.Joe is a Team player and very invested in all he serves and Volunteers with. Thankyou Joe Vecchione, keep on shining your light! “Yours truly, “The Sketch Artist” A food drive for pets continues If you are an animal lover and/or have a soft spot in your heart for needy dogs and cats, you might want to contribute to the Pet Food Donation Drive. Marcia Benson wants to remind Saugus residents about the food drive that the Good Hope Food Pantry is hosting now through July 31. Good Hope is located at 47 Grove St. in Lynnfield and is part of the Calvary Christian Church. The pantry is held on Thursday mornings and hundreds of vehicles show up from Saugus and area communities. Saugus residents who would like to donate some food for our fury, four-legged friends can do so by visiting drop-off spots at Saugus Town Hall, Carpenito Real Estate and the Saugus Public Library. Marcia writes that the organizers are seeking wet and dry dog and cat food, treats and litter – and are especially in need of cat food and litter. For more details, check out https://create.piktochart.com/output/55052935-pet-food-drive. Or you can email Marcia at Marciabenson5@icloud. com. A community garden update If you are young or old, and feel like doing some real earthy community service, why not join the growing team that’s been assisting in the creation of the Community Garden that’s going to help feed the hungry and needy people of Saugus? Here’s this week’s message from Rev. John: “Dear kind people, “Thanks to those of you who were able to join us for the planting of the peppers and eggplant. “We invite any who are able to join us to help on Friday or Saturday anytime between 9 and 11. Denise and I will be leaving this Monday for 2 weeks and we are looking for someone to water each Monday or Wednesday while we are gone. This task consists of • Turning on the garden sprinkler • Read a book on our back porch for 45 minutes • Turning the sprinkler off “If any among you are able to assist, please let me know. “Peace, “John+” Contact The Rev. John Beach of St. John’s Episcopal Church to get the latest update on how the garden is doing and what you can do to help. Anyone who wants to help out Rev. John on this noble project can call him at 774-961-9881 or send him an email at revjbeach@gmail.com. We will keep you posted as the garden continues to grow. Remember folks, this is your garden. Be a part of it. A chance to see “The Wall That Heals” There’s still time this weekend for Saugus veterans to go see “The Wall That Heals,” a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial located in Washington, D.C. It arrived in Nahant yesterday and will be available for viewing today through Sunday. American Legion Post 215 and the Town of Nahant will host the exhibit at the Lowlands Athletic Field on Nahant Road. When fully assembled the replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., stretches 375 feet and stands 7 1/2 feet at its tallest. It consists of the replica, mobile Education Center and information tent and will be open 24 hours a day, free to the public – today (Friday, July 16) and tomorrow before concluding at 2 p.m. on Sunday. The Welcome Home Ceremony will be held tomorrow (Saturday) at 5:30 p.m. “The Nahant American Legion is honored to have been chosen as one of only two New England locations to host The Wall That Heals this summer,” said Post 215 Commander Bob Fields. The traveling exhibit honors the more than three million Americans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces in the Vietnam War and bears the names of over 58,000 men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam. “Like many events and activities in our nation, the 2020 The Wall That Heals season was dramatically changed by the pandemic. We are excited to find these communities ready to work carefully to give a safe opportunity for thousands to experience the healing and educational aspects of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in 2021,” said Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) President and CEO Jim Knotts. “We look forward to providing these communities with the opportunity to honor and remember all those who served and sacrificed in the Vietnam War and educate visitors on the continuing impact of the Vietnam War on America.” Most Vietnam veterans never received a ‘welcome home.’ It is hoped that this will be a healing experience for local Vietnam veterans and their families. It is an opportunity to honor those who have served or are serving in our nation’s military while educating a new generation about how the conflict in Vietnam impacted our community. The Wall That Heals is provided by VVMF, the nonprofit organization that founded the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. For more information on this upcoming event, contact candacecahill@gmail.com or visit http://www. alpost215.org/ About the veterans’ bricks Board of Selectmen Vice-Chair Corinne Riley, who is involved with a lot of veterans events and programs in town, passes this note along: “The Saugus Veterans Council would like to inform those who ordered bricks prior to May 2021, which were displayed at the Memorial Day Ceremony, that those bricks will be installed at Veterans Park mid August and will be dedicated on Veterans Day.” Summer Reading Program at the library This came from Amy Melton, Head of Children’s Services at the Saugus Public Library: “The Saugus Public Library is reopening just in time for its annual summer reading program. Although the school year is ending, it doesn’t mean that the opportunity to learn and grow has. This summer kids of all ages will explore the animal kingdom as the Saugus Public Library presents its ‘Tails and Tales’ summer reading program. Activities will include Take & Make crafts, virtual STEM programming, storytimes, outdoor performers and more. “The Saugus Public School District recommends that students read at least 20 minutes a day this summer. The library is here to help families create a summer reading routine that is fun for kids and their families. The 2021 Summer Reading Program is open to young people, preschool through young adult. “We reward our readers! We’ve once again partnered with local businesses to reward summer reading. We’d like to thank those businesses who generously donated prizes and the New Friends of the Saugus Public Library who purchased others. We’re also participating in Read to Bead – kids collect reading Brag Tags and colorful beads as they go. “Families are encouraged to register for the animal themed ‘Tails and Tales’ Summer Reading 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. It’s like a Fitbit for reading! For more information, or to register in person, stop by the library or visit our website (www.sauguspubliclibrary.org/children/ summer-reading-program/). “It’s been a challenging school year. It’s important to keep reading to retain skills – and an opportunity to catch up with peers. Research shows that children who do not read during the summer fall behind. The effect is cumulative – over many summers these students fall significantly behind their peers. “Most importantly perhaps, it’s an opportunity to build a reading routine: turn off the media, sit with a child, and enjoy some beautiful story books. Try reading a longer book to them, and let them read to you. With Beanstack kids can take a safari around the world to learn about animals on different continents, listen to animal stories from around the world and do research on their favorites. “Need some help finding registering for summer reading, or finding a ‘just-right book’ for your child? Stop by the library and see us! All programs are free of charge.” CHaRM Center Recycling Drop-Off site open for season The community’s Center for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM) site is open. This site will remain open to residents on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The site is located behind the Department of Public Works at 515 Main St. At the CHaRM center, the Town will accept the same recycling items that can be placed outside for curbside collection each week, such as paper, cardboard, bottles, cans and glass containers. No shredded paper is accepted for on-site recycling. Additional acceptable items include TVs and computers (up to three per year per address); car tires up to 22” (for a fee of $3); books; and textiles, such as clothing, bedding, pocketbooks, belts and shoes. Plastic bags are not permitted; residents are kindly asked to empty recyclables out of any plastic bags and to remove the bags from the site. Also, rigid plastics are not being accepted for recycling at this time. THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | SEE PAGE 14
Page 12 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 The Captain M By The Old Sachem, Bill Stewart ost of you know I really like soccer although I never had a chance to play the game. My two older sons, Will and Bob, both were captains of the Saugus High teams during their school years, so I got to know the game well. I watch the Premier League in England on a somewhat regular schedule on TV; I’m now watching the UEFA Europa Cup tourney and I will follow the World Cup closely. The tournament starts with one or two teams from each European country; the United Kingdom includes teams from England, Scotland and Wales. One of the heroes of this year’s Europa Cup is Harry Edward Kane, captain of the English team. Kane was born and raised in the London borough of Waltham Forest on July 28, 1993. He started his career at six years old with the Ridgeway Rovers; he is from a family that worshiped the game of what is known throughout the world as football but called soccer in the USA. The family was fans of the local team, the Tottenham Hotspurs, but Kane had a chance to start with a youth team sponsored by Arsenal, known as the Arsenal Youth Academy. The Premier League teams sponsor teams starting with the very young up to the level below the league team. Kane was released from the Arsenal Academy at VACCINE | FROM PAGE 2 of Longmeadow, Deutsches Altenheim of West Roxbury, and Elizabeth Seton Residence and Marillac Residence of Wellesley. The network is the first long-term care provider group in Massachusetts to issue a vaccine mandate for its employees. “Our top priority is always the health of our residents and our staff,” said Adam Berman, President and CEO of Legacy Lifecare. “With over 323 million doses administered in the United States, the COVID-19 vaccines have been proven to be both safe and effective. After consulting with experts and careful consideration, we feel strongly that requiring staff to be vaccinated is the most important action we can do to ensure the safety of our eight years old because the manager thought he was a bit chubby and not very athletic. He had a trial with the Hotspurs youth but was not successful, so he returned to Arsenal Academy. At 11 years old he tried out for the Watford and was selected. After a game with the Hotspurs youth team, Kane was given another chance to join the Hotspurs youth. He became a midfielder, which is primarily a defensive position, and later was moved to an attacking midfielder. Starting out he did not stand out, was rather small and somewhat slow in running, but they held on to him, realizing that he took well to instruction and constantly improved his game. At 15 he had a growth spurt, making him stronger and taller, and became a member of the under 16 club. He played in the Copa Chivas tournament in Mexico and the Bellinzona tournament in Switzerland, scoring three goals for England. On his 16th birthday he signed a scholarship contract with Tottenham. Moved up to the under 18 team, Kane scored 18 goals and was sometimes on the bench for the Premier League team. Kane signed a professional contract with the Hotspurs and was loaned to the Leyton Orient club to increase his game, then was brought up to the Hotspurs near the end of the season. On August 25, 2011, Kane made his first appearance for Tottenham. He was subsequently loaned long-term care communities.” Chelsea Jewish Lifecare and other Legacy Lifecare affiliates plan to implement the mandate once the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) grants final approval of one of the three vaccines. Receiving the COVID-19 vaccine will be a condition of employment for all staff members and volunteers, with exemptions limited to religious and medical reasons. This is consistent with the network’s approach to the flu vaccine. Since last December when vaccines were first made available to health care workers, Chelsea Jewish Lifecare and Legacy Lifecare have conducted an extensive education campaign titled “Superheroes Saving Lives”. Over 75% of the approximately 1800 employees throughout the Legacy Lifecare netout to Millwall on January 1, 2012, for the remainder of the season, scoring nine goals in 27 games, and was selected as Millwall’s Young Player of the Year. His scoring enabled Millwall to forestall the threat of relegation. For those of you not familiar with the Premier League, each year the three lowest placed teams in the Premier League are relegated to a lower-level Championship and the top two teams from the lower-level Championship promoted to the Premier League, with an additional team decided by competition. The additional team is promoted after a series of playoffs involving the third, fourth, fifth and sixth placed clubs. His first start for the Hotspurs was on April 7, 2014, and he scored his first Premier League goal in the 59th minute against Sunderland. He was a second half substitute until a home game against Stoke City. Kane became the captain of the team England in April of 2015 and scored 25 goals in 38 league games, a goal in the Football Association (FA) Challenge Cup and two goals in Europa. During his 11 seasons up to 2020, Kane scored 166 goals in 242 games, 11 FA Cup goals in 16 games, six goals in League Cup play and 38 goals in Europa games in 63 games. With the English National Team, Kane, who is the captain, has scored 35 goals in 58 games; his best year was 12 goals in eight games in the 2018 season. Kane scored his first hat trick, three goals in a contest, on October 25, 2015, to lead work are currently vaccinated, achieving the national goal for long-term care providers. To further prepare for this mandate, senior leadership will continue to offer comprehensive information about vaccine safety and efficacy, including encouraging employees to ask questions and addressing concerns on a one-on-one basis. In addition, all campuses will offer on-site vaccination clinics to facilitate meeting this important requirement. The organization thanked its employees for their incredible dedication, loyalty, courage, and compassion. “COVID-19 has been devastating, especially for those of us who care for the most vulnerable,” said Berman. “I am so proud of our staff and how they have persevered throughout these challengthe way to defeating Bournemouth. He was named Player of the Month for the third time in March 2016, after scoring five goals in four games. Kane was the leading scorer for the 2016 season and won the Golden Boot Award, helping Tottenham to a third-place finish and a UEFA Champions League qualification. In the 2016-2017 season, Kane was a runner-up for the Golden Boot Award and named as the Premier League Player of the Year. That season he signed a new contract with Tottenham that keeps him with the team until 2022. The 2017-2018 season was a record breaker for Kane. He was named Premier Player of the Month for the fifth time in his career. Kane became the record holder for scoring 39 goals in a calendar year. He suffered injuries in the 2018-2019 season but was able to return for a Champions League game against Borussia Dortmund for a noscore tie that gave Tottenham an aggregate score of 4-0 and propelled them to the quarterfinals, which they lost. In the 2019-2020 season, he scored twice in the first game of the season against Ashton Villa. He suffered a hamstring injury that kept him out of games, then the COVID-19 pandemic ended the season early. The 2020-2021 season was another record for Kane. In a 5-2 win over Southampton, he scored the fifth goal after assisting Son Heung-min to four goals, which made him the first player in league history that assisted the same teammate four times in a sining times. They are the real heroes in this story.” Berman noted that the organization did not make the vaccine mandate decision lightly. “Simply put, implementing this mandate is the only way we can fully protect our staff and our residents,” said Berman. “I absolutely believe it’s the right decision for us.” About Chelsea Jewish Lifecare Chelsea Jewish Lifecare is redefining senior care and re -envisioning what life should be like for those living with disabling conditions. The eldercare community includes a wide array of skilled and short-term rehab residences, ALS and MS specialized care residences, traditional and specialized assisted living options, memogle game. Kane has come under criticism for his tactic of backing into defenders jumping for headers, causing players to fall backwards onto the ground, risking serious injury. Kane has a sponsorship contract with Nike; he wears Nike Hypervenom football boots and was featured in a 2018 Nike commercial, “Nothing beats a Londoner.” He was named to the Team of the Year in FIFA 18 along with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronald in attack. Kane married Katie Goodland and they have three children: Ivy Jane Kane, Vivienne Jane Kane and Louis Harry Kane. Kane has a pair of Labrador retrievers named Brady and Wilson after the NFL quarterbacks Tom Brady and Russell Wilson. Kane abstains from alcohol during the playing season, has hired a full-time chef to optimize his nutrition and plays golf in the off-season. Kane was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2019. Kane has brought the team of England to the finals of the Europa Cup after beating Denmark this week with a penalty kick in overtime. The final in Wembley Stadium had both teams, England and Italy, at 1 during the 90 minutes of play. Then the two 15-minute periods went unscored, which led to penalty kicks. Although Kane and McGuire were able to score on their turns, the Italians got three of five to win the match and the EUFA Championship. Congratulations to the Champions of UEFA, the Italian National team. ry care, independent living, adult day health, aging life care, ventilator care, home care and hospice agencies that deliver customized and compassionate care. About Legacy Lifecare Legacy Lifecare Inc., a non-profit management resources collaborative, provides small-to-mid-sized organizations access to the infrastructure needed to succeed in today ’s complex world. With deep expertise in strategy, finance, operations and support systems management, Legacy Lifecare enables its not-for-profit affiliates to preserve their missions and identities while gaining access to sophisticated managerial services and collaborative opportunities ordinarily only available to larger organizations.
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 Page 13 FATAL FIRE | FROM PAGE 1 less body on the fi rst fl oor of the house, which was engulfed in fl ames. This was the first time in nearly a decade that any residents perished in a Saugus fi re, according to Jake Wark, public information offi cer for the Department of Fire Services. “Aside from these two deaths, there were two other deaths in the period from 2011 thru the present. Both were in 2011 – one on Jan. 16, 2011 and the other on July 23, 2011,” Wark said. The fi re was jointly investigated by the Saugus Fire Department, the State Police Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit assigned to the Offi ce of the State Fire Marshal, and State Police assigned to the Essex County District Attorney’s Offi ce. “Electrical fi res are the second leading cause of fire deaths in Massachusetts,” State Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey said in a statement yesterday. “It’s critically important not to overload outlets with multiple appliances, or to use power strips or extension cords to power devices like air conditioners or space heaters,” he said. “If you see sparks, hear sizzling or buzzing, or smell the vague odor of something burning, call your local fi re department immediately. Firefi ghters can use thermal imaging technology to see excessive heat inside the walls.” From 2016 to 2020, Massachusetts fire departments reported 2,719 home fires FATAL FIRE | SEE PAGE 14 Neighbors left fl owers on the stairs in memory of Lou Gallo and Rose Naples, who died in Saturday’s house fi re at 16 Richard St. The aftermath of the fi re was still evident on Monday night. (Advocate photo by Tara Vocino) TRAGEDY ON RICHARD STREET: Saugus Fire Department Lieutenant Damian Drella’s photo posted on Saugus Firefi ghters Local 1003 website captures the horror of the three-alarm fi re that destroyed the home of an 80-year-old Saugus woman and her 78-year-old brother last Saturday, claiming both of their lives. FATAL FIRE: An 80-year-old woman and her 78-year-old brother died after fi re broke out in their home at their Richard Street home early last Saturday. An investigation determined the fi re was electrical. (Courtesy photo by Michael Layhe to The Saugus Advocate) Saugus mourns crafty, jolly neighbor and quiet widow C By Tara Vocino ommunity members are mourning victims Louis Gallo, 78, and Rosemarie Naples, 80, the siblings who died in Saturday’s early morning three-alarm house fi re at 16 Richard St. Retired Saugus Postal Clerk Karen Perullo-Coburn knew Gallo as a 20-year customer and valued his friendship over the years. “What I’ll miss about him is making Christmas ornaments for us,” Perullo-Coburn said. “Whenever he came in the post offi ce, he made me smile and made me feel like I mattered.” She said Gallo didn’t have any children but treated the staff like his own. “He was personable and sunny,” Perullo-Coburn said. “He was very jolly.” When she heard he died, she was heartbroken. A friend of 40-plus years, Barbara Celata, said Naples, who worked at the Saugus Bank and Trust, was a friend for life. “I will miss my phone calls to her,” Celata said. “We shared nice laughs and beautiful memories.” Celata said Gallo was just as friendly, adding that they were two peas in a pod. She will miss seeing Gallo at the Italian-American Club polling place, where they’d chit-chat with a smile. “He loved to cook and was special,” Celata said, who went to the Richard Street home to pay her respects. “I couldn’t believe it,” she said. “I’m so sad they’re gone.” Neighbor Dennis Norkum, who awoke to the roaring fl ames and an explosion, said they didn’t get out much in their golden years, except for doctor’s appointments, adding that Rose was married to a contractor, the late John, a 1959 graduate of Saugus High School who played both football and basketball. John Naples was ultimately inducted into the Saugus High School Sports Hall of Fame. Together, they shared two daughters, Cindy and Lisa. Neighbor Nancy Pizzi, who was awakened by the fl ames, said she heard that Naples was a nice woman. “It’s very sad and tragic,” Pizzi said. Neighbor Maria Della Croce said she off ered a prayer at the site to pay her respects. “Their parents built their house in the ’30s,” Norkum said. “They kept to themselves but were great people.” He added the neighborhood is sorry to lose such great neighbors. “Hope they didn’t suff er too much,” Norkum said. “If there was wind, it would have spread to other homes and been tough to control.” Known as Swampscott’s unoffi cial town historian, Swampscott Select Board Chairman Peter Spellios said Gallo made Swampscott’s history part of their present, ensuring that they knew where they can came from as a town in order to inform where they were going. “We will not be able to replace Louie, but he left us a great wealth of knowledge,” Spellios said. “We will be forever grateful.” Spellios added that Gallo will be missed tremendously. President Molly Conner of the Swampscott Historical Society, of which he was an active member, said she’ll miss Gallo’s generosity the most. “He helped so many people,” Conner said. “From his knowledge of Swampscott history to donating to the Swampscott library, his contributions to Swampscott are remembered by all.” Conner added that Gallo’s humor and kindness was infectious and made them want to be a better person, adding that Swampscott Historical Society members will miss him forever. Funeral arrangements hadn’t been arranged as of press time.
Page 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 Seven stores cited for selling tobacco products to minors By Mark E. Vogler T he North Shore/Cape Ann Tobacco Policy Program found seven Saugus stores violated town Board of Health regulations by selling tobacco products to minors. Each of the businesses cited faces a minimum fine of $1,000, according to Board of Health Director John Fralick. The citations stem from compliance checks of 25 establishments conducted on June 15 and 22, 2019, by Joyce Redford of the tobacco policy program working with two THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | FROM PAGE 11 Residents may call Lorna Cerbone at the Solid Waste and Recycling Department at 781-231-4036 with questions or for more information. Compost site open The town compost site is open to residents on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The site is located behind the Department of Public Works at 515 Main St. Stickers are required to gain seasonal access to the site. Stickers may be purchased for $25.00 at the Department of Public Works (DPW) located at the Compost Site when making your visit to the Compost Site. The Town of Saugus accepts checks only for payment of the $25.00. No cash will be accepted. Kindly bring a check when visiting. Thank you! Compost site stickers must be permanently placed on the lower left corner of residents’ automobile windshields. Vehicles registered out of state are not permitted. Yard waste must be disposed of in brown compost bags or open containers. The Town will accept grass clippings, leaves and brush. As in years past, no branches or limbs larger than three inches in diameter are permitted. We ask all residents to please wear a mask and maintain and respect social distancing from others while visiting the site. Residents may call Lorna Cerbone at the Solid Waste and Recycling Department at 781-231-4036 with questions or for more information. Help the Vietnam Vets “Roll to DC” A reminder from Joseph “Dennis” Gould, a Vietnam War Era veteran who served four years with the U.S. Navy: He has organized a fundraising drive REP. WONG | FROM PAGE 9 Democrats, to require House committees to post on the Legislature’s website within 48 hours all votes taken at an executive session or on a poll detailing how each individual member voted. Both amendments failed on separate votes of 38-121 and 41-117. FATAL FIRE | FROM PAGE 13 caused by electrical problems, according to the state Fire Marshal’s Office. These fires caused 28 civilian deaths, 76 civilian injuries, 377 fire service injuries and an estimated dollar loss Food Pantry still open The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry will conAdditional amendments supported by Representative Wong: • Allowing any member serving on active reserve military duty to participate remotely in a formal session, subject to the requirements and limitations of federal law and regulation; this amendment passed (160-0) • Limiting the Speaker of the House’s term of office to no more of $38.8 million. Electrical fires are the second leading cause of fire deaths in Massachusetts. Fire officials stressed yesterday that working smoke alarms in your home can double your chances of survival if a fire occurs. Home than eight consecutive years; this amendment failed (35-125) • Requiring committee chairs who schedule an emergency committee meeting that conflicts with a formal House session to provide the House Clerk with a written explanation detailing the emergency and requiring the House Clerk to provide this explanation to the fire deaths have been cut in half since the early 1970s, when smoke alarms were first marketed, and about 40 percent of fire deaths in the United States take place in the four percent of homes without smoke alarms. People should install smoke underage youths in her investigation. “It’s no mystery that you can’t sell to minors,” Fralick said. “You have to be checking IDs.” Board of Health Chair William Heffernan said since he’s been on the board that he believes the citations have never been waved. “If you’re caught selling to minors, you’re paying,” Heffernan said. “If you get caught again, we’ll take even more drastic measures,” he said. The stores cited: • Great Convenience Store, that will help area Vietnam Era veterans visit Washington, D.C., in the fall of next year. “I am glad to announce that we will have a ‘Roll to DC’ for Vietnam Era Veterans from Melrose, Saugus, Lynn and surrounding towns September 2022. “The managers of this effort will be Saugus VFW Post # 2346. “Gould will be Chair and David Nelson, Saugus American Legion and Stacey Minchello, Melrose Senior Center will be Vice Chairs. “Stan King, Quartermaster Post # 2346 be Treasurer.” It will be a four-night trip to D.C. – staying at The Presidential Inn at Joint Base Andrews, the home of presidential aircraft. It will include a ceremony and laying of a wreath at the Vietnam Wall and the Tomb of Unknown Soldier as well as visits to all military memorials and statues. “We are looking for major sponsorship and donations from all. The Vietnam Veterans will go on this trip free, but it will take approximately $70,000 of sponsorship and donations,” Gould said. “If you would like to be a major sponsor, please contact chairman Dennis Gould cell 617 257 4847 or e mail “Jdgould1969@aol.com “If you would like to send in a donation, please make check out to: “‘Saugus VFW–Roll to DC’ write ‘Roll to DC 2022’ in comment Line and mail to: “Saugus VFW Post 2346 “190C Main St “Saugus Ma 01906” If you have any questions or would like to volunteer to assist the committee, please contact Dennis at the contact info above. 501A Main St. • Mobil at 1123 Broadway • 7-Eleven at 386 Lincoln Ave. • Blue Moon Smoke Shop at 500 Lincoln Ave. • Vapor Zone at 184 Broadway • 7-Eleven at 32 Hamilton St. • Mobil Santos at 2 Essex St. tinue to remain open on Fridays between 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. despite concerns over the Coronavirus. They have made adjustments to protect their core of volunteers and the needy people who receive the food. For the protection of volunteers & clients and to limit personal contact and crowding/gathering, the food pantry has been distributing prebagged groceries. Even though clients may receive items they don’t want or need, food pantry organizers feel this is the best course of action to mitigate the potential spread of COVID-19. Those in need, even for short-term or one-time assistance, are encouraged to come. The food pantry is in the basement of Cliftondale Congregational Church at 50 Essex St. in Saugus. Let’s hear it! Got an idea, passing thought or gripe you would like to share with The Saugus Advocate? I’m always interested in your feedback. It’s been over five years since I began work at The Saugus Advocate. I’m always interested in hearing readers’ suggestions for possible stories or good candidates for “The Advocate Asks” interview of the week. Feel free to email me at mvoge@comcast.net. Do you have some interesting views on an issue that you want to express to the community? Submit your idea. If I like it, we can meet for a 15to 20-minute interview over a hot drink at a local coffee shop. And I’ll buy the coffee or tea. Or, if you prefer to continue practicing social distancing and be interviewed from the safety of your home on the phone or via email, I will provide that option to you as the nation recovers from the Coronavirus crisis. If it’s a nice day, my preferred site for a coffee and interview would be the picnic area of the Saugus Iron Works. members; this amendment failed (30-129) • Requiring the House Clerk to post a calendar for all sessions, including informal sessions, on the Legislature’s website and to e-mail notifications to members and staff at least half an hour prior to the start of session; in addition, requiring the House Clerk to provide members and staff alarms throughout their home, test them monthly and replace the batteries when they change their clocks. If your smoke alarm is more than 10 years old, it should be replaced, according to fire officials. “Officials recommend with a list of all miscellaneous papers to be taken up at least 15 minutes prior to the start of session; this amendment failed (33-126) • Requiring members to have at least an hour to review any consolidated amendments prior to the amendment being taken up for a vote by the House; this amendment failed (32-127). smoke alarms on every level of a dwelling and outside each sleeping area – every second counts during a fire, and smoke alarms can buy time to escape before routes are blocked by deadly smoke, heat, and toxic gases,” Wark said. LIKE US ON FACEBOOK ADVOCATE NEWSPAPER FACEBOOK.COM/ADVOCATE.NEWS.MA
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 Page 15 SAUGUS GARDENS IN THE SUMMER Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable By Laura Eisener A very popular spot for walks is the Saugus Ironworks. It is also one of the locations where there are the fewest mosquitos, since barn swallows (Hirundo rustica) who nest in the rafters of several buildings keep the insect population controlled. In addition to the barn swallows, who will be here until late August when they migrate south, birds such as herons, egrets and ospreys frequently fish in the river. Many other kinds of wildlife are often seen. Views of the river change over the course of each day as the tide comes in and goes out. Many visitors come to the site to take FAIRY CANDLES: next to the Appleton-Taylor-Mansfield House at the Saugus Ironworks. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) BEAUTY BY THE RIVER: purple flowering raspberry on the banks of the Saugus River near the blacksmith shop. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) as bugbane, black cohosh and snakeroot (Actaea racemosa, formerly Cimicifuga racemosa) – beside the Appleton-Taylor-Mansfield House has tall stalks with creamy white flowers. This is a native North American perennial species. A closely related Asian species (Actaea simplex) is more often sold in nurseries, especially the dark foliaged forms, such as ‘Brunette,’ ‘Chocoholic’ and ‘Black Negligee,’ but our native one blooms almost two months earlier. Many medical properties have been attributed to this plant over the centuries. The name bugbane refers to the fact that few insects eat the foliage, but bees are not at all deterred from foraging for HUMMINGBIRD MOTH: Also known as humming bug, it flutters in Kathy Murphy’s garden. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by KMH Murphy) nectar in the blossoms. The flowers do have a rather odd scent that some people find unattractive. Purple flowering raspberry – also sometimes called thimbleGARDENS | SEE PAGE 17 PRAYING MANTIS: resting on butterfly stonecrop, which is also known as showy stonecrop (Hylotelephium spectabile). (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by KMH Murphy) SEEING ITSELF: a praying mantis that seems to be admiring its reflection in a parked car headlight. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by KMH Murphy) pictures or to paint, and it is a popular site for birders because of the varied habitats, all in a fairly small area a short walk from the center of town. The garden around the Appleton-Taylor-Mansfield House has many beautiful flowers, some of which were well known in the 17th century. This garden was planted by the New England Unit of the Herb Society of America and the Saugus Garden Club in the 1970’s with labels describing the 17th century uses of each species, but over the years many of the plants have been replaced with other varieties which have more attractive flowers. This garden is flowering especially lavishly now, and there are many plants in bloom elsewhere on the site, including the nature trail on the lower section of the site on the east bank of the river. Fairy candles – also known
Page 16 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 AG Healey announces resolution with Purdue Pharma and Sacklers for their role in opioid crisis Attorney General Maura Healey recently announced the resolution of her lawsuit against the Sackler family and their company, Purdue Pharma, that will make public a multitude of documents related to their role in the opioid crisis and also require a payment of more than $4.3 billion for prevention, treatment and recovery efforts in communities across the country. It will also require Purdue Pharma to be wound down or sold by 2024 and ensure that the Sacklers are banned from the opioid business and required to turn over control of family foundations to an independent trustee to be used to address the opioid epidemic. The resolution of the lawsuit requires unprecedented and complete disclosure about the role Purdue and the Sacklers played in the opioid crisis. It requires Purdue and the Sacklers to make public more than 30 million documents, including attorney-client privileged communications about the original FDA approval of OxyContin and tactics to promote opioids. It also requires the Sacklers to make one of the largest payments that individuals have paid to resolve a law enforcement action in U.S. history. “From the day we opened our investigation and became the first state to sue the Sacklers, my office has been committed to revealing the truth about the opioid epidemic that the Sacklers and Purdue Pharma created, the devastation they caused, and the countless American families they hurt,” ASKS | FROM PAGE 5 because of their advocacy of abortion rights] A: Somebody asked me about it a couple of times. I haven’t followed it super closely, but the quote from Pope Francis: “Communion is not a gift for saints. It’s food for sinners.” It’s not an exact quote, but that’s what I say when I’m asked about it. I lean on Pope Francis. Maybe it’s a cop-out. But I love the quote – so whatever people decide – I just think that’s a great quote; I think it speaks for itself. Again, as people distribute communion, the focus is we’re making sure that it is consumed reverently and nothing bad is happening to it. Q: What’s made the biggest impression on you so far in Saugus? A: The people. The people are wonderful. They are kind. They’re direct, which I like. And, again, there’s a relaxed nature. I tend to be a relaxed person. I would say that you’re likely to see me in a T-shirt and smoking a cigar and just jabbing with the parishioners. And I’ve done it at the Blessed Sacrament and at St. Margaret’s. Q: So, you still smoke? A: Yes, cigars. I waited five years to enjoy cigars the way they are meant to be – not inhalsaid Healey. “While I know this resolution does not bring back loved ones or undo the evil of what the Sacklers did, forcing them to turn over their secrets by providing all the documents, forcing them to repay billions, forcing the Sacklers out of the opioid business, and shutting down Purdue will help stop anything like this from ever happening again. This case has also shown us that our legal system needs to change so that billionaires are never allowed to manipulate the bankruptcy system. I am grateful to the families whose strength and perseverance will continue to guide our work to combat this crisis in the years ahead.” “The opioid crisis has caused immeasurable harm to families across Massachusetts and Purdue Pharma played a significant role in perpetuating that crisis, and I am grateful that this resolution holds Purdue and the Sackler family accountable,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Our Administration was proud to support the Attorney General in this litigation and to push for greater accountability for the Sacklers and Purdue throughout this process. There is much more work to do to fight the opioid epidemic and we remain committed to building on Massachusetts’ nation-leading work in prevention, education, treatment and recovery, but we are glad that today’s resolution sends a message that those who perpetuated this crisis will be held accountable.” ing – so I have a little book where if I have a new cigar, I will write down the flavors and stuff. That’s a little bit of a hobby. One of my close friends was a classmate – also in sobriety. He’s a Catholic priest in Ohio. He enjoys cigars. We’ll exchange our experiences. It’s still not the healthiest thing, but one of my guilty pleasures. Q: What about your family? A: I’m a twin. My brother, Justin, lives in Plymouth. He’s a special needs person. He walks but he’s nonverbal. My parents [Stephen and Joan Makos] live in North Fort Myers, Fla. I was raised as a member of the Greek Orthodox Church. But my parents have supported my decision to go into the Catholic Church and become a priest. Q: Anything else that you would like to share? A: Just that I’m really pleased to be in Saugus. I’ve really fallen in love already with both churches of the Saugus Catholics Collaborative – Blessed Sacrament Church and Saint Margaret Church. It kind of resolidifies that it’s God’s will that I’m here. I just pray that I do my best to serve people and be transparent. Q: Do you have any idols that you really look up to? Or do you have a hero? Somebody who has truly made a difference in “I would like to thank Attorney General Healey for delivering on her promise to expose what Purdue and the Sacklers did,” said Learn to Cope Founder/Executive Director Joanne Peterson. “For the past 20 years, they have hidden behind lies and stigmatized our families. Now everyone will know the truth.” “This settlement helps to bring justice to the many families in the Commonwealth who have lost loved ones to the opioid epidemic,” said Dimock Center President/ CEO Dr. Charles Anderson, who is a member of the Opioid Recovery and Remediation Fund Advisory Council. “It will shape public health policy and decrease the stigma associated with substance use disorder which is vital to promoting access to care for all that need it. Moreover, the disclosure of information achieved in this settlement will allow us to make sure that this never happens again.” “We are forever grateful to Attorney General Maura Healey and her staff for demanding accountability and justice for the harm and devastation caused to individuals, families, and communities,” said Massachusetts Organization for Addiction Recovery Executive Director Maryanne Frangules. Disclosure Under the terms of the resolution, Purdue will turn over for public disclosure the evidence from lawsuits and investigations of Purdue over the past 20 years, including deposition transcripts, deposiyour life. And it doesn’t have to be somebody you know or have met. A: Somebody once asked me when I was a kid if I could sit down and have a meal with somebody, who would that be? And it still holds true today – probably Dr. Martin Luther King. I’d like to sit down with him, because of his sense of equality, his sense of love for people no matter who you are or what your background is. I think he kind of epitomizes that radical welcoming of what I think the church should be all about, so yes, if I had to pick one. Q: It was suggested that I ask you about your welcoming to Saugus, so I will mention it. A: Yes. On July 18 we’re doing an outdoor Mass. It’s kind of a part of the welcoming by the community. It’s July 18 at 11 a.m. There will be a welcoming Mass. Hopefully, the weather is nice. That’s kind of a formal way to get together as a community, but people have been so welcoming throughout Mass, because I have been doing the Masses right along, since the first weekend in June. Q: Anything else that you would like to talk about? A: I have these thoughts about what people have asked me or made comments about tion videos, and 13 million documents. Purdue will also be required to turn over more than 20 million additional documents, including every non-privileged email at Purdue that was sent or received by every member of the Sackler family who sat on the Board or worked at the company. Lastly, Purdue will waive its attorney-client privilege to reveal hundreds of thousands of confidential communications with its lawyers about tactics for pushing opioids, FDA approval of OxyContin, “pill mill” doctors and pharmacies diverting drugs, and about the billions of dollars Purdue paid out to the Sacklers. Payment and Abatement The Sacklers will pay $4.325 billion over the next nine years, with Massachusetts expected to receive an estimated $90 million for abatement of the opioid epidemic. Thousands of individual victims of Purdue’s misconduct will also receive compensation as part of the bankruptcy process. Under the terms of the plan, the Sacklers will be permanently banned from the opioid business and Purdue will be sold or wound down by the end of 2024. The resolution also requires the Sacklers to relinquish control of family foundations holding $175 million in assets to the trustees of a foundation dedicated to abating the opioid crisis. Further, the Sackler family will be prohibited from requesting or permitting any new naming rights in connection with charitable or similar donathe relaxed nature they find me in the community. Like, “Oh Father, we kind of like seeing you in normal clothes.” And they ask me if I wear clerics. I said I do, on more formal occasions. And then they say, “Why is it you kind of dress in a relaxed way?” I say, “With the scandal and everything with the church, I feel as though it’s time to … instead of focusing on looking like a priest, acting like a priest ... so, if I’m in shorts, having a cigar and just talking and sharing my faith, I’d rather focus on acting instead of looking.” That is one of things that I have told people. And another thing that we touched on before – somebody had asked, “Why are you so open about your alcoholism as a public figure? As a Catholic priest, it’s embarrassing.” I said, “No, it’s not embarrassing.” One of my critiques of the church is the hierarchy not being as transparent as I would prefer. And I had asked a couple of years ago in front of Father [Cardinal Sean] O’Malley to be more transparent. And I think he’s done a good job with that. I figure I can’t ask the church to be transparent if I’m not transparent about myself. That’s also been the lens I live my life through. Q: You’ve had a chance to tions or organizations for the next nine years. Throughout the case, Healey called out the Sacklers’ abuse of the justice system. In 2019, when the Sacklers used Purdue’s corporate bankruptcy as a shield against personal liability in lawsuits, AG Healey led a coalition of 25 non-consenting attorneys general to fight Purdue and the Sacklers in bankruptcy court. In 2020, Healey warned the U.S. Department of Justice not to support Purdue’s plans. In June 2021, Healey testified before the U.S. House Oversight Committee about the need for legislation to close the loophole that the Sackler billionaires have used to gain protection from bankruptcy court. Since taking office, Healey has prioritized combating the opioid epidemic through a multidisciplinary approach that includes enforcement, policy, prevention and education efforts. In June 2018, Healey was the first state attorney general to sue members of the Sackler family for their role in creating the opioid crisis. In February 2021, AG Healey co-led a $573 million settlement with McKinsey & Company over claims it advised Purdue on how to target doctors to “turbocharge” OxyContin sales. In May 2021, Healey filed a lawsuit against Publicis Health, a significant player in the American drug marketing industry, alleging it designed and deployed unfair and deceptive marketing schemes to help Purdue Pharma sell more OxyContin. spend some time with Cardinal O’Malley? A: Yes, I’ve had a chance throughout the years. He ordained me. He’s a beautiful, spiritual man. Again, I have a little bit more of a radical sense of the church in terms of transparency. He’s done an amazing job. We don’t see eye to eye on some things, but he’s been wonderful. Saugus Catholics Collaborative issued the following press release this week: Blessed Sacrament Parish and St. Margaret’s Parish will be welcoming our new pastor, Fr. Jason Makos, at an outdoor Mass on July 18 on the grounds of Blessed Sacrament Church. The Mass will begin at 11AM, and there will be a Coffee Hour immediately following the Mass in the church hall. Everyone is welcome to join both the Mass and the Coffee Hour, we do ask that you bring your own chair if you are coming to the Mass. Fr. Jay, as he likes to be known, has expressed his appreciation for the warm Saugus welcome he has been given. “This Mass is so very special in that it not only welcomes me to the congregation, it also signifies the revitalization of the Saugus Catholic community as we move beyond the difficult events of the last year and into a bright future for our Church and our town,” he said.
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 Page 17 OBITUARIES Barbara E. (Nickerson) Mazman Of Saugus, formerly of Lynn, age 87, died on Wednesday, July 7. She was the beloved wife of Harry Mazman with whom she shared 64 years of marriage. Born and raised in Lynn, Mrs. Mazman was the daughter of the late George and Edith M. (Gooby) Nickerson. She worked for 20 years as a Tax Processor for the IRS and had been a resident of Saugus for the past 60 years. An avid Patriots fan, Barbara was very competitive in her family’s fantasy football league. She also enjoyed arts, crafts and quilting. In addition to her husband, Mrs. Mazman is survived by her three children, Edward Mazman of Swampscott, Karen Mazman-Stevens and her husband Douglas of Reading and Anita Anderson of Peabody; seven grandchildren, Erica, Julie, Elaina, Zachary, Kenneth, Valerie and Lauren; one great granddaughter, Ty; daughter-in-law, Virginia Mazman of Newbury; as well as many nieces and nephews. In lieu of fl owers, donations in Barbara’s memory may be made to the American Heart Association at heart.org. GARDENS | FROM PAGE 15 berry (Rubus odoratus) – is an eastern native in the rose family. It is part of a planting done several years ago at the Ironworks by the Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation along the eastern bank of the Saugus River near the blacksmith shop. You will fi nd native strawberry plants growing among them, with ripe berries if the wildlife did not get to them just before you went out to look! The purple fl owering raspberry has showy fl owers with fi ve pinkish purple petals and a pale tan center, blooming over a fairly long period from early to midsummer, and often producing fruits that resemble raspberries. These fruits provide food for wildlife, but while they are considered edible they are not nearly as palatable as regular raspberries (Rubus idaeus and hybrids), black raspberry (Rubus occidentalis) and blackberry (Rubus fruticosus and hybrids). The brambly growth habit resembles its tastier relatives, but there are a few differences. This plant has reddish bristles along the stem but no actual thorns. The leaves look like maple foliage. As an ornamental plant, it’s surprising it has not been used in gardens more often. 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 For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 781-233-4446 or Info@advocatenews.net the Saugus Garden Club and off ered 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. Sa Sen i r Sa a y Senior Senio BY JIM MILLER The Hidden Dangers of Sleep Apnea Th Hidd D Dear Savvy Senior, How can you know when someone has sleep apnea? My husband has become such a terrible snorer that he wakes himself up at night, and he keeps me up too. Dear Teri, If your husband is a loud snorer who wakes himself up during sleep, he probably needs to be tested for sleep apnea, a dangerous disorder that aff ects more than 22 million Americans, but often goes undiagnosed. Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes a person to stop breathing during sleep, hundreds of times during the night, for 10 seconds or more at a time. Left untreated, it can cause extreme daytime sleepiness, as well as a host of serious health conditions like high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, diabetes and dementia. In fact, it’s estimated that every year, around 38,000 Americans die in their sleep from a heart attack or stroke because of sleep apnea. But the good news is that sleep apnea is very treatable and most insurance companies, including Medicare, cover it. Who Has It? There are three types of sleep apnea: obstructive, central and mixed. Of the three, obstructive sleep apnea (or OSA) is by far the most common and occurs when the throat muscles relax during sleep, blocking the airway. While anyone can have it, sleep apnea is most common in people who are overweight, male, middle-aged and older. For women, the risk increases after menopause. The symptoms include loud snoring (however not everyone who snores has apnea), long pauses of breathing, gasping or choking during sleep and daytime drowsiness. But because most of these symptoms happen during sleep, most people don’t recognize them. It’s usually the person they’re sleeping with who notices it. Diagnosing Sleep Apnea To help you get a handle on your husband’s problem, the American Sleep Apnea Association has several diagnostic tests he can take at SleepApnea.org/ treat – click on “Test Yourself.” If the screening indicates that he may have sleep apnea, make an appointment with his docTired Teri tor or a sleep specialist who will probably recommend an overnight diagnostic sleep test called polysomnography, which can take place at a sleep center lab (see SleepEducation.com), or at home using a portable device. Treatment Options Your husband is at greater risk for sleep apnea if he’s overweight, smokes, and/or consumes excessive amounts of alcohol. Excess weight, especially around the neck, puts pressure on the airway, which can cause it to collapse. Smoking can increase the amount of infl ammation and fl uid retention in the upper airway. And alcohol and sleeping pills can relax the muscles in the back of his throat, interfering with breathing. Addressing these issues, if necessary, is usually the fi rst line of treatment. If that doesn’t do the trick, mild cases of sleep apnea may respond to oral devices that fi t into the mouth like a removable mouth guard or retainer. These devices work by positioning the lower jaw slightly forward to keep the airway open during sleep. Another noninvasive treatment option to consider is the new FDA approved eXciteOSA device (eXciteOSA.com). This treats sleep apnea and snoring by improving tongue muscle function by delivering electrical stimulation to the tongue through a mouthpiece that’s worn for just 20 minutes during the day. If none of these options work, the most effective and commonly prescribed treatment for OBA is a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device. This involves sleeping with a snorkel-like mask that’s hooked up to a machine that gently blows air up the nose to keep the passages open. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book. nior ior
Page 18 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 Beacon Hill Roll Call By Bob Katzen THE HOUSE AND SENATE: Beacon Hill Roll Call records the votes of local representatives and senators from the week of July 5-9. The House and Senate approved a $48.1 fiscal 2022 budget. The House also approved a new set of rules under which the Houser will operate beginning October 1. Despite repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call, Rep. Bill Galvin (D-Canton), the chair of the Rules Committee and author of the new rules package, did not respond to e-mails asking him to explain his reasons for voting against many of the amendments proposed to the package. Other representatives in the Democratic leadership who did not respond to repeated requested for a comment on why they voted against many of the amendments include Reps. Claire Cronin (D-Easton), Kate Hogan (D-Stow), Michael Moran (D-Brighton), Sarah Peake (D-Provincetown) and Joe Wagner (D-Chicopee). $48.1 BILLION FISCAL 2022 BUDGET (H 4002) House 160-0, Senate 40-0, approved and sent to Gov. Charlie Baker a compromise version of a $48.1 billion fiscal 2022 state budget for the fiscal year that began on July 1. The House and Senate had approved different version of the budget and a six-member conference committee hammered out a compromise version. The state has been operating on a temporary onemonth budget approved by the Legislature and the governor. Baker now has ten days to use his veto power to veto any items in this new budget and send them back to the Legislature which can override any of the vetoes with a two-thirds vote. The budget is based on new estimates that tax collections in fiscal year 2022 will increase by more than $4.2 billion above the amount originally predicted by the governor, the House and the Senate a few months ago. In light of the pandemic, elected officials had for months braced themselves for a substantial decrease in tax revenues and a cut in some programs and/or even a tax increase. The new estimates also led to the conference committee’s cancellation of a planned withdrawal from the state’s Rainy Day Fund of at least $1.5 billion. Officials also project a $1.1 billion deposit into the fund which will drive its balance to $5.8 billion by the end of fiscal year 2022. It also cancels a plan to raise fees on Uber and Lyft rides in order to generate new money for cities and towns, the MBTA and other infrastructure projects. Other provisions include a $350 million fund that could be used in future years to help cover the cost of the $1.5 billion school funding reform law passed in 2019; permanently extending the state’s tax credit for film production companies in Massachusetts; and a new law that will provide victims of violent crime and human trafficking enhanced protections. That provision is based on a bill filed by Sen. Mark Montigny (D-New Bedford). “The conference report … upholds our Senate values, charts a hopeful path forward for our commonwealth and more importantly reflects our priorities,” said Senate Ways and Means chair Mike Rodrigues (D-Westport) to lead off the debate on the Senate floor. “We maintain fiscal responsibility and ensure our commonwealth maintains healthy reserves for years to come. It safeguards the health and wellness of our most vulnerable populations and new supports for children and families.” “It invests in K-12 education, early education and childcare, housing, mental health, public health and other areas to ensure our citizens and our communities will benefit equitably as we recover from the lasting impacts of the pandemic,” continued Rodrigues. “We address long term liabilities and make down payments to fulfill future obligations. This fiscally responsible and forward-looking budget doubles down on our commitment to build an equitable recovery and addresses our critical needs as we work to getting back to a new better.” Although she ultimately voted for the budget, Sen. Diana DiZoglio (D-Methuen) said during the debate on the Senate floor that she objected to the fact that legislators were given only a few hours to read the 434-page bill before voting on it. The budget was released late Thursday night and was voted on Friday afternoon. DiZoglio said that positioning members to take a vote on something they did not get adequate time to review is not acceptable. “If we keep doing this over and over again, it’s not going to magically become acceptable,” she said. “The fact that we didn’t get even a day to review this is very disappointing. But what’s more disappointing … is the fact that those in our communities who have a stake in what happens in the bill before us, those it will impact most — our schools, our elderly populations, those who are coming from positions of powerlessness, those folks, probably many of them, still don’t even know that we’re taking this bill up today. And yet we continue to call what happens in this chamber part of the democratic process.” (A “Yes” vote is for the budget.) Rep. Donald Wong Yes Rep. Jessica Giannino Yes Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes ADOPT NEW HOUSE RULES (H 3930) House 129-29, approved a set of new House rules that will go into effect on October 1, 2021. Until then, the House will continue to operate under the emergency COVID-19 rules it adopted last year. Without this bill, the emergency rules would expire on July 15. The new rules package includes requiring both formal and informal sessions of the House to be livestreamed; giving House committee chairs the ability to allow for both in-person and virtual hearing testimony from the public; allowing any member serving on active reserve military duty to cast a House vote remotely; and requiring committees to publish names of representatives who vote against advancing a bill through committee but not the names of legislators who vote in favor of or do not vote on the matter. “The challenges over the last 14 months have made us work and function differently,” said House Rules Committee chair Rep. Bill Galvin (D-Canton) during debate on the House floor. “This experience has shown us a new way to operate and to utilize technology, both procedurally and administratively. As we emerge from the worst of the pandemic, we have a unique opportunity to incorporate lessons learned, thereby providing for a more efficient, flexible and accessible legislative process.” House GOP Minority Leader Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading) said that the few changes do not go far enough: “I offered multiple amendments to help shed more light on the way the House of Representatives and its committees conduct their business, but those amendments were struck down, leaving me with no choice but to reject the underlying rules package.” (A Yes” vote is for the House rules package. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. Jessica Giannino Yes Rep. Donald Wong No TERM LIMITS FOR SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE (H 3930) House 35-125, rejected an amendment that would reinstate a 2009 rule that prohibited any representative from serving as speaker of the House for more than eight consecutive years. The rule was repealed in 2015. “Instituting term limits is about putting in place the guardrails to help ensure a more democratic and responsive House,” said amendment sponsor Rep. Tami Gouveia (D-Acton). “One that fosters fair and thoughtful competition required of a strong democratic entity. It is important to so many of our constituents across the state that we bring diverse and distinct experiences, identities and geographic representations to the table and I believe that term limits for the speaker will help us do this more effectively.” “While I appreciate different ideas to continuously improve our Legislature, I do not support term limits,” said Rep. Jim O’Day (D-West Boylston). “Term limits can place the House at a severe disadvantage during negotiations with the governor and other officials, which is not beneficial for advancing legislation or for our districts.” “The speaker holds the most powerful office in the House of Representatives, but all 160 Representatives stand as equals when it comes to representing their constituents,” said Rep. Brad Jones. “Setting term limits on the speaker’s office is a way to prevent too much power from being consolidated in the hands of any one individual over time. Reinstating the term limits that were repealed in 2015 would send a powerful message that the House is committed to inclusion and the periodic transition of power.” Rep. Jack Lewis (D-Framingham), speaking on the House floor during debate, talked about campaigning, knocking on doors and asking his constituents which issues are important to them. “I’ll tell you what I’ve never heard when knocking on those doors: ‘Jack, I’m concerned that there are no term limits for the Massachusetts’ speaker of the House.’ Never once,” said Lewis. “And I urge all of my colleagues today to think back to those days … sometimes meeting our constituents for the first time. Did any of you ever hear one of them ever bring this up as an issue? I’m confident that nearly universally, the answer is no.” (A “Yes” vote is for term limits. A “No” vote is against term limits.) Rep. Jessica Giannino No Rep. Donald Wong Yes ALLOW MEMBERS TWO HOURS TO VOTE IN COMMITTEE (H 3930) House 35-124, rejected an amendment that would give legislators two hours to vote electronically when casting a vote on a bill in committee. “Members are often given very little time to respond to committee polls, even when the poll involves multiple bills and complicated issues,” said sponsor GOP House Minority Leader Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “One of the more glaring examples … was a recent House Ways and Means poll that gave members BHRC | SEE PAGE 21
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 Page 19 “YOUR FINANCIAL FOCUS” JOSEPH D. CATALDO MASSHEALTH SUPERIOR COURT CASE A recent Massachusetts Superior Court Judge held against MassHealth with respect to the countability of assets housed in an irrevocable Trust. It is well settled law that for purposes of determining eligibility for MassHealth benefits, countable assets include any portion of the Trust principal that could under any circumstances be paid to or for the benefit of the applicant. Such circumstances need not have occurred, or even be imminent, in order for the principal to be treated as countable assets; it is enough that the amount could be made available to the applicant under any circumstances. This was set forth in the Heyn case, a Massachusetts Appeals Court case decided in 2016. In this Superior Court case, the applicant had retained a limited or special power of appointment in the Trust that she created that she could have exercised during her lifetime “to appoint the remaining principal and any undistributed income of the Trust among the members of the class consisting of her issue of all generations or charitable organizations other than governmental entities, but no such power or payment shall be used to discharge a legal obligation of the applicant”. In a simple sense, appoint is another word for distribute and an example of issue would be children or grandchildren. MassHealth argued that if the applicant appointed Trust principal to family members, those family members could then in turn return the Trust principal to the applicant to be used for her benefit. The Superior Court once again cited the Heyn case which stated that “Medicaid does not consider assets held by other family members who might, by reason of love but without legal obligation, voluntarily contribute monies toward the grantor’s support”. The grantor of the Trust is also referred to as the Settlor or Donor, and in this case, was the applicant for MassHealth benefits as well. The court also stated that “the limited power of appointment is exercisable only in favor of permissible appointees, and any attempt to exercise a limited power of appointment in favor of an impermissible appointee (i.e. to use principal for the personal benefit of the grantor), is therefore invalid. An appointment to a permissible appointee is ineffective to the extent that it was: 1. Conditioned on the appointee conferring a benefit on the impermissible appointee 2. Subject to a charge in favor of an impermissible appointee 3. Upon a trust for the benefit of an impermissible appointee 4. In consideration of a benefit conferred upon or promised to an impermissible appointee 5. Primarily for the benefit of the appointee’s creditor, if that creditor is an impermissible appointee, or 6. Motivated in any other way to be for the benefit of an impermissible appointee. The above six items are set forth in the Restatement (Third) of Property and the Superior Court judge held that MassHealth cannot argue that Trust principal could ever be distributed to a permissible appointee in order to benefit the applicant and held that none of the Trust principal was countable. The applicant then qualified for MassHealth benefits. In the case at hand, no principal could under any circumstances be appointed to the applicant. The applicant clearly was not a permissible appointee. If she was, her retained right would have been deemed a general power of appointment thereby providing her a right to receive Trust principal.
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THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 Page 21 BHRC | FROM PAGE 18 just 16 minutes to review a 38-page supplemental budget and a separate election reprecincting proposal. That is simply not enough time to properly review and understand these bills.” “The Republican caucus has conFRANK’S Housepainting (781) 289-0698 • Exterior • Ceiling Dr. • Power Wash • Paper Removal • Carpentry FREE ESTIMATES — Fully Insured “Proper prep makes all the difference” – F. Ferrera • Interior sistently pushed for greater transparency during the rules debate of the House because the more information the public has access to the better,” said Rep. Todd Smola (R-Warren). “Having a two-hour window to read and comprehend legislation before it is voted out of committee is not asking for the world. This would help members digest bills and make informed decisions on what is before the House. Poll windows continue to shrink, and this practice contributes to the lack of transparent government for the people’s elected representatives.” Opponents of the amendment did not off er any arguments during debate on the House fl oor. This is one of the amendments on which Beacon Hill Roll Call made repeated requests to reach several representatives in the House Democratic leadership for a comment on why they voted against it. Representatives not responding include Reps. Bill Galvin, Claire Cronin, Kate Hogan, Mike Moran, Peake and Joe Wagner. (A “Yes” vote is for giving two hours to vote. A “No” vote is against giving two hours). Rep. Jessica Giannino No Rep. Donald Wong Yes POST HOW REPRESENTATIVES VOTED ON BILLS IN COMMITTEE (H 3930) House 38-121 and 41-117, rejected two similar amendments that would require that committees make public how each legislator on the committee voted on whether or not to favorably report a bill to the House. This would replace a section of the proposed rules that would only post the names of legislators who voted against the bill and list the aggregate vote tally without names, of members voting in the affi rmative or not voting. “The public has a right to know where their legislators stand on the issues being debated in committee, and it makes absolutely no sense to identify by name only those members who vote no at an executive session or on a poll,” said Rep. Brad Jones, sponsor of one of the amendments. “When we vote in the House chamber, our individual votes are displayed for all to see, and legislative committees should be held to the same standard by providing full disclosure of where each member stands on a given issue.” “I believe every resident of Massachusetts has the right to hold their elected state representative accountable,” said Rep. Erika Uyterhoeven (D-Somerville), the sponsor of the other amendment. “Under current rules, there is no accountability on the votes we take in committee. This amendment ensures that every vote taken in committee is available to the public, including when bills are sent to study.” Rep. Joe Wagner (D-Chicopee) opposed the listing of which representatives vote yes or did not vote. “The names of votes of those voting in the negative being there for everyone to see is suffi cient in terms of transparency,” said Wagner during the debate on the House floor. “I have always been concerned, and I’ve chaired committees for about 20 years, and I have been always concerned that when we take votes in committee, the votes that we take to advance legislation does not refl ect necessarily, when an affi rmative vote is taken, the support for the matter as it is before the committee.” Wagner continued, “So for example, there are points at which members will vote affi rmatively to move a matter from a committee because they support the idea conceptually of a particular piece of policy or legislation. But with that support affi rmatively, if that was a fi nal form that the legislation may take. And so I think that where a vote in the negative is very clear, a vote in the affi rmative is less clear. And there are interest groups and there are people frankly who may have agendas and would use a vote in the affi rmative, if a member’s name were attached in that way, to try and discredit a member perhaps or potentially misconstrue a member’s position on a particular issue.” (Both roll calls are listed. On both roll calls, A “Yes” vote is for the amendment. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. Jessica Giannino No/No Rep. Donald Wong Yes/Yes EXTEND THE EMERGENCY RULES FOR COVID-19 (H 3929) House 130-30, approved a mea~ HELP WANTED ~ Bilingual Italian or Spanish speaking woman wanted for senior citizen. Light housekeeping, preparing dinner. Salary Negotiable. Call 617-387-4444 Hours: 12:00 - 4:00 PM n sure that would extend until October 1, 2021, the emergency rules under which the House has been operating since the COVID-19 pandemic began more than a year ago. There was no debate on the proposal. House Speaker Ron Mariano (D-Quincy) told reporters his team wanted to keep temporary rules in place “until we were sure the pandemic was over.” “The House of Representatives has been operating under emergency rules throughout the COVID-19 pandemic in response to the many public health and safety issues surrounding the coronavirus, and those temporary rules should be allowed to expire as planned on July 15,” Rep. Brad Jones told Beacon Hill Roll Call. “Now that more than four million Massachusetts residents are fully vaccinated, and the rest of the state has opened up, I cannot see any valid reason why the House should continue to operate under a different standard than the rest of the commonwealth.” (A “Yes” vote is for extending the emergency rules. A “No” vote is against the extension). Rep. Jessica Giannino Yes Rep. Donald Wong No 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 July 5-9, the House met for a total of 15 hours and 45 minutes while the Senate met for a total of three hours and 19 minutes, Mon. July 5 No House session No Senate session Tues. July 6 House 11:02 a.m. to 1:21 p.m. Senate 11:21 a.m. to 11:26 a.m. Wed. July 7 House 11:00 a.m. to 6:40 p.m. No Senate session Thurs. July 8 House 11:00 a.m. to 1:39 p.m. Senate 1:16 p.m. to 1:34 p.m. Fri. July 9 House 1:01 p.m. to 4:08 p.m. Senate 1:16 p.m. to 4:12 p.m. Bob Katzen welcomes feedback at bob@beaconhillrollcall.com
Page 22 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 what New England city? 10. In 1876 at Delmonico’s Restaurant in NYC, why was a desert called Baked Alaska? 11. What Frenchman 1. On July 16, 1911, what dancer was born who was nicknamed the name of a spice? 2. What is Maine’s state fruit? 3. What kind of animal is a joey? 4. In what sport would you find a peloton? 5. July 17 is World Emoji Day; from what language is “emoji,” which means “picture word”? 6. What Amherst, Mass., resident in the 1800’s wrote, “To see the Summer Sky / Is poetry, though never in a book it lie – / True Poems flee –”? 7. Who wrote the 1842 short story “The Masque of the Red Death”? 8. In Japan in July of what year did the Sony Walkman – the world’s first low-cost personal stereo – go on sale: 1966, 1979 or 1984? 9. On July 18, 1853, the first North American international railroad trains began running between Montreal, Quebec and painted “Impression, Sunrise,” which inspired the name of the Impressionist movement? 12. On July 19, 1955, the Yarkon Water Project opened in the Negev desert of what country with a water shortage? 13. What is the world’s largest mollusk, which is native to coral reefs? 14. July 20 is International Chess Day; in what country did chess begin: India, Persia or Scotland? 15. In what penguin species, which is the heaviest and tallest of the penguins, does the male incubate the egg? 16. On July 21, 1959, Elijah Jerry “Pumpsie” Green became the first African American to play for what baseball team? 17. What fruit is native to sand dune areas on the East Coast? 18. In 1952 what author and minister wrote the book “The Power of Positive Thinking”? 19. What word that is the fourth letter of the Greek alphabet is also used to describe a virus variant? 20. On July 22, 1940, who was born who hosted the TV shows “The 128,000 Question” and “Jeopardy!”? REAL ESTATE TRANSAC TIONS 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 BUYER2 Murgia, Amy A Milch, James Mazzotta, Kimberly Lezcano, Gregory Murgia, Robert K Mazzotta, Pasquale E SELLER1 Lauren Obrien RE Grp LLC Sheffield Heights RT Willey, Debra A Carvalho, Ryan SELLER2 Digirolamo, Ralph Willey, Roderick M ADDRESS 16 Davis St 903 Lewis O Gray Dr #903 2 Mccullough Rd 7 Cliftondale Ave CITY Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus DATE 25.06.2021 24.06.2021 23.06.2021 21.06.2021 PRICE $500 000,00 $525 000,00 $620 000,00 $565 000,00 ANSWERS 1. Ginger Rogers 2. Blueberries 3. A baby kangaroo 4. Bicycle racing: It is the main group of riders in a race. 5. Japanese 6. Emily Dickinson 7. Edgar Allan Poe 8. 1979 9. Portland, Maine 10. In honor of the U.S. government purchase of Alaska in 1867 11. Claude Monet 12. Israel 13. Giant Clam 14. India 15. Emperor 16. Boston Red Sox 17. Beach plum 18. Norman Vincent Peale 19. Delta (COVID-19) 20. Alex Trebek
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