VOTE TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3rd LEADERSHIP BEGINS WITH LISTENING. MY POLICIES HAVE BEEN, AND WILL ALWAYS BE, SHAPED BY WHAT I HEAR FROM MY CONSTITUENTS. SAUGUS AVD Vol. 23, No. 44 -FREEwww.advocatenews.net Fall Back 1 Hour Saturday Night! ADVOCATDV C TE AD OC Published Every Friday Spooky outside the Senior Center 781-233-4446 Friday, October 30, 2020 Election 2020 Saugus embraces early voting; more than 43 percent of town’s 20,291 registered voters had already cast their ballots as of Tuesday By Mark E. Vogler N ext Tuesday (Nov. 3) could be a record-setting Election Day for Saugus if more registered voters go to the polls than have already voted. Figures provided by Town Clerk Ellen J. Schena’s office showed that a whopping 8,811 people – more than 43 percent of the town’s 20,291 registered voters – had already cast their ballots as of Tuesday (Oct. 27). And that was the most ever in any election, she said. That is a Shown in the front row, from left to right, are Senior Center Director Joanne Olsen (good witch), kitchen staff Michelle Kelley (skull), Clerk Joanne Genzale (cat), kitchen staff Ann Swanson (minion), Administrative Assistant Laurie Davis (bad witch) and Stephanie Mastrocola (crazy snake lady), and in the back is dishwasher Paul Watts (blue M & M). They displayed their Halloween costumes outside the Saugus Senior Center last Friday (Oct. 23). They also handed out 170 trunk-or-treats to senior citizens. See page 11 for photo highlights. (Advocate photo by Tara Vocino) record, Schena agreed, adding “because mailing in ballots is all new to everyone.” How have the mail in ballots increased the workload of Schena’s staff? And was it worth the extra work? Schena says it was worth the extra work and increased the workload by 100 percent. Of the early voting, 5,790 Saugus residents had returned their ballots in the mail as of Monday (Oct. 26). That means there is still time for those numbers to increase between now and Election Day. As for voting in person, there were 2,793 cast as of Tuesday (Oct. 27). And that number could also increase over a four-day period that ends today (Friday, Oct. 30) at noon. Another 228 out of 302 absentee ballots mailed out had been returned. Schena wouldn’t speculate what the total turnout will be by the time all the votes are counted. “I cannot answer this question, but on average it is 75 to 80 percent turnout in Saugus in a Presidential Election,” Schena told The Saugus Advocate this week. “Please have all voters be patient and courteous to the Election Workers. We are all doing the best job(s) we can at his time,” she said. Local political observers ELECTION | SEE PAGE 16 ANGELO’S FULL SERVICE "42 Years of Excellence!" 1978-2020 Regular Unleaded $1.919 MidUnleaded $2.399 Super $2.459 Diesel Fuel $2.279 KERO $4.159 Diesel $1.959 HEATING OI 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 HAPPY FALL! Y FLEET
Page 2 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 Voting often and early Talking about top town goals T Selectmen eye bank building for Cliftondale parking By Mark E. Vogler Tuesday’s State/Presidential Election had already drawn 43 percent of the town’s registered voters as of Wednesday (Oct. 28). That includes the Absentee Ballot, mail-in voting and In Person Early Voting – which concludes today (Oct. 30, from 9 a.m. to noon) at the Saugus Public Library. Will President Donald Trump take Saugus again – like he did four years ago when he was elected to his first term? See Page 3 for a balanced take on that and other questions answered by Saugus Democratic Town Committee Chair Joseph Malone and Saugus Republican Town Committee Chair Jim Harrington in this week’s “The Advocate Asks.” (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) own officials have been lamenting the closure of multiple businesses in Cliftondale Square since the outbreak of COVID-19 back in March. But with the announced closure of the North Shore Bank branch on Lincoln Avenue coming later in the year, Selectman Jeffrey Cicolini and other town officials see an opportunity that could address a scarcity of parking that would help to revitalize commerce in that part of town. “This is something that we shouldn’t let pass by and go to the highest bidder,” Cicolini told his colleagues during a work session on goals and objectives prior to Tuesday night’s (Oct. 27) regular business meeting of the Board of Selectmen. He suggested that town officials meet soon with bank representatives and express an interest in buying the building at 481 Lincoln Ave.; once the town acquires the property, it should have the building torn down and clear the way for a parking lot. “I think it’s a prime place where we could do a lot of work,” Cicolini said. Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree urged Cicolini to curb his enthusiasm about his suggestion so it won’t spoil any plans the town might have of acquiring the property. “I would just say that we’re not that interested in it,” Crabtree quipped. “I don’t want to see the price go up,” he added. The town manager said he had a relationship with representatives of the bank and told the board he would “reach out” to them. In an interview later in the week, Crabtree called it “a great suggestion by the selectman (Cicolini). Crabtree said the town’s Planning and Economic Development Department is already looking at ways in which the overlooked business area of town could be revitalized At Tuesday’s meeting Cicolini and other selectmen agreed that it is time to put the revitalization of Cliftondale Square on the list of the board’s top priorities. Board of Selectmen Vice Chair Corinne Riley said she is encouraged about the future of Cliftondale Square while noting that the property that encompasses the North Shore Bank loan center next to the bank could be a key part of any town plans. “First, I’m thrilled that the Board recognizes Cliftondale as a priority. For Cliftondale to reach its potential, the long-running parking issue will definitely need to be addressed, and purchasing and razing the specific property at 481 Lincoln Ave. for a municipal parking lot is a creative idea to help solve the parking issue,” Riley said in an interview later. “That property alone could add 20-25 additional parking spots in Cliftondale. And the idea to meter the parking to help offset the upfront investment – the Town Manager is going to reach out to the owner, and I am excited to hear the owner’s response. I’ve lived in Cliftondale my entire GOALS | SEE PAGE 16
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 Page 3 ~ THE ADVOCATE ASKS ~ How the chairs of the Saugus Democratic and Republican Town Committees size up Tuesday’s Election Day Editor’s Note: For this week, we decided to get a balanced take on the presidential election from a Saugus perspective, so we interviewed the local spokesmen for the two major political parties in town: Saugus Democratic Town Committee Chair Joseph Malone and Saugus Republican Town Committee Chair Jim Harrington. We asked them their thoughts on the upcoming presidential race, what town residents in their party have to look forward to in Tuesday’s (Nov. 3) election, their reaction to the early turnout (43 percent of all registered voters as of Wednesday, Oct. 28) and whether they think Saugus voters would support Trump as they did four years ago. Malone, 67, has been chair of the Saugus Democratic Town Committee for 12 years. He grew up in Medford and graduated from Malden Catholic High School. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in U.S. History from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst in 1975. He has worked for more than three decades at the state Department of Transitional Assistance (formerly the Department of Public Welfare), where he is currently a benefit eligibility representative. Malone has also worked at SavMor Liquors in Somerville for 42 years. He has been a town resident since 1988 and has been active with the Democratic Town Committee for 29 years. He and his wife, Barbara, are the parents of three grown-up children: a son and two daughters. The couple served multiple terms on the Saugus School Committee: Joe from 2007-13 and Barbara from 1995-2003. Harrington, 62, has been the local chair of the Saugus Republican Town Committee since 1989 – a year after he became active with the party. He’s been a registered Republican for 40 years. He has lived most of his life in Saugus and is a 1976 Saugus High School graduate. He attended Northeastern University in Boston for two years. He is a retired mechanic and service station owner. Harrington served on the Republican State Committee from 2000 to 2004. He’s been an at-large member of the Saugus Lions Club and a member of the Saugus High School Alumni Association and other local organizations. He’s been a Pats season ticket holder since 1993 and loves to tailgate. He and his wife, Susan, a Melrose native, have three grown-up sons and three grandchildren they enjoy taking care of at their Carr Road home. Some highlights of those interviews follow. Q: So, as of today (Wednesday, October 28), 43 percent of Saugus’ registered voters have already voted. What do you make of that? Malone: I think people are anxious to get out and vote. With the COVID, people were worried about lines on Election Day and wanted to vote early. ASKS | SEE PAGE 4
Page 4 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 ASKS | FROM PAGE 3 I think that’s been a big factor in Saugus. Harrington: Four years ago, almost 30 percent of Saugus voters voted early or by absentee ballot. I think that COVID-19 has been a reason for increased early voting. Q: Will Trump carry the town of Saugus again like he did four years ago? If yes, why do you think he will? Why do you think Saugus is so supportive? Why do you think the town goes against the Greater Boston and statewide trends? Malone: I think Biden will carry the town of Saugus this time. I think people will look upon Joe as more mainstream and a candidate who will do a better job at handling the pandemic. People are out of work and losing jobs. Restaurants and retail stores have been going out of business. There’s a lot of dissatisfaction among Saugus voters with the current situation. Four years ago, I didn’t think Trump could beat Hillary Clinton. I was very surprised. Voters in town supported Trump because Saugus is slightly more conservative than the surrounding area. This year I think things will be different In Saugus. It may be close. But I think Biden will win Saugus. Harrington: I think that the President will carry Saugus again. I have not spoken to anyone who is excited about Joe Biden. Saugus is a blue-collar working town and is not going to be fooled into voting for the guy who promises you the most “free stuff.” Something earned is something valued. Q: As chair of your party’s town committee, what do you see in this election that voters in your party have to look forward to? The key reasons for Saugus Democrats or Republicans to turn out and vote if they haven’t already? Please be specific and talk about candidates and reasons. my, jobs and health insurance. Harrington: We also have the opportunity to elect Kevin O’Connor to the U.S. Senate and John Paul Moran to U.S. Congress. Ed Markey has called for the disarming of police officers – although he waited until after the primary to reveal is wrong. Kevin O’Connor and John Paul Moran will represent the people of Massachusetts and the 6th Congressional district as true leaders, not special interest puppets. Q: Has this election been more divisive than others in recent memory? And if so, how and discontent – because they don’t feel he has managed the virus well. A lot of people have lost their jobs. And there are a lot of people working remotely at home because of the Coronavirus. It’s hard to work remotely, especially if you have children. SAUGUS DEMOCRATIC TOWN COMMITTEE CHAIR JOE MALONE: He predicts next Tuesday night (Nov. 3) will be a huge night for Democrats throughout the country with Joe Biden winning the presidency and the Democrats winning back the U.S. Senate and maintaining control of the House. He also expects Biden will capture the Saugus vote in a close race. (Saugus Advocate file photo by Mark E. Vogler) Malone: I think people like Ed Markey for the U.S. Senate. He has been around for about 44 years. I am surprised that he beat Kennedy in the primary, but I think he will be reelected. Congressman Seth Moulton will be easily reelected – overwhelmingly – and it won’t even be close. I think Democrats have a better answer on the Coronavirus, the econothis. Neither Markey nor Seth Moulton have denounced the rioting, looting and arson that have occurred, and in some cases are still occurring, in our cities. Their silence is fueling the flames of violence and destruction. Indeed, some of the Democrats have openly praised these activities. This is wrong. Chaos and anarchy SAUGUS REPUBLICAN TOWN COMMITTEE CHAIR JIM HARRINGTON: He thinks President Donald Trump will carry Saugus next Tuesday night (Nov. 3) – like he did four years ago. “I have not spoken to anyone who is excited about Joe Biden. Saugus is a blue-collar working town and is not going to be fooled into voting for the guy who promises you the most “free stuff.” (Saugus Advocate file photo by Mark E. Vogler) HE’S A HUGE SUPPORTER OF EARLY VOTING: Saugus Democratic Town Committee Chair Joe Malone says “Anything that expands the turnout is a really great thing. We want more and more people voting.” (Saugus Advocate file photo by Mark E. Vogler) so? Please elaborate. Malone: There’s a tremendous amount of polarization out there. No question about it. I think it’s because of COVID; it’s something that’s really unique. People seem to hold the president responsible. They think he could have done a better job in managing the virus. That is what I’m hearing. On the Republican side, people are supportive of President Trump. But because of the pandemic, there’s a lot of dissatisfaction overall with President Trump – a lot of dissatisfaction PEOPLE SHOULD VOTE ON ELECTION DAY: Saugus Republican Town Committee Chair Jim Harrington says he’s “not a fan of early voting because late revelations can change the minds of voters.” (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) It’s better than losing your job, but it does bring complications. And that’s got to breed dissatisfaction with the presidency as well. Harrington: I do feel that the upcoming election has been more divisive than others. I again blame the mainstream media for fanning the flames of hysteria and fear. I feel that the citizens of Saugus are sickened by the actions of the Democrats, the false accusations against Justice Brett Kavanaugh, the “witch hunt” impeachment and constant hatred spewing from Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer. When President Trump banned travel from China on 31 January, he was called racist and xenophobic. Despite the World Health Organization saying on 23 January that there is no “human to human transmission outside of China” or on 27 January that “China has it contained,” Chuck Schumer called the President’s travel ban “premature” on 5 February. Nancy Pelosi encouraged people to “come and visit Chinatown and enjoy Chinatown’s New Year festivities” on 24 February. President Trump has been criticized for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, yet he has been hampered at every turn – even Nancy Pelosi slipping a Congressional pay raise into the first stimulus bill. I think that the voters of Saugus are going to see through the negativity and venom coming ASKS | SEE PAGE 6
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 Page 5 New Animal Control Officer begins duties Acting Offi cer Darren McCullough appointed full-time this week to a position he once held more than 25 years ago By Mark E. Vogler F or much of this year, Darren McCullough has been working as the town’s acting Animal Control Offi cer – a position he once held more than 25 years ago. Town Manager Scott Crabtree appointed McCullough earlier this year in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic on a temporary basis to fi ll the vacancy left by longtime Canine Offi cer Harry Young. He retired last October after 26 years as the town’s Animal Control Offi cer. Given McCullough’s familiarity with the position, Crabtree presented his nomination to the Board of Selectmen on Tuesday night (Oct. 27), and the board approved it unanimously. “I am happy to welcome Darren back to the role of Animal Control Offi cer for the Town of Saugus,” Crabtree said in a press release issued yesterday. “Darren possesses advanced knowledge of the community, as well as public service and government, which will make him an asset to our Town, residents and employees. Darren loves animals and will thrive in his role,” he said. Board of Selectmen Chair Anthony Cogliano called Darren McCullough “a great guy.” “I want to congratulate him in his role as Animal Control Offi - cer for Saugus. He will be great AUTOTECH 1989 SINCE CA$H FOR YOUR CAR! DRIVE IT - PUSH IT - TOW IT! Cold Hard Cash For Your Car, Truck or SUV! 2014 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE LT Excellent Condition, Most Power Options, Key-less Entry, Panoramic Moon Roof, Backup Camera, Remote Start, 126K Miles, Warranty! TRADES WELCOME $10,900 Easy Financing Available! EddiesAutotech.com 2008 CADILLAC DTS Platinum Package, Every Conceivable Option, Clean Title, Only 86K Miles, Warranty! TRADES WELCOME $8,500 781-321-8841 1236 EasternAve • Malden We Pay Cash For Your Vehicle! for the Town and our residents,” Cogliano said. McCullough, who previously served as the Town’s Animal Control Offi cer on a part-time basis for two years, began in his new permanent full-time role on (Tuesday) October 28 after the selectmen’s vote. McCullough most recently worked as a Surface Line Operator and Senior Money Agent for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). Prior to that, he owned and operated Saugus Foundations for 10 years. Before that, McCullough served as the Town’s part-time Animal ConOFFICER | SEE PAGE 19 HE’S PERMANENT NOW: Darren McCullough received the unanimous 5-0 backing of the Board of Selectmen for the permanent appointment of Animal Control Officer at Tuesday night’s (Oct. 27) meeting. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate)
Page 6 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 ASKS | FROM PAGE 4 from the Democrats and reject Biden, Markey and Moulton. Q: What do you sense the mood of the voters in Saugus is this year? Malone: I think they are in the mood for a change. I think the Biden election will bring a very signifi cant change. Harrington: I feel that President Trump has been under a relentless attack since the day after he won the election in 2016. This includes virtually all of the mainstream media, both in print and on television. All of his accomplishments have been downplayed or criticized, including his latest – a peace accord between Israel and several Middle East Arab nations. The media also downplays or fails to report things harmful to Biden, including the latest scandal involving his son, a Russian oil company and the former Vice President himself. In fairness, President Trump does not help himself with the timing and phrasing of some on his tweets. He is a tough man to love, but he was elected to do a tough job. I think of him as a fi ne surgeon with a lousy www.eight10barandgrille.com We Have Reopened for Dine-In and Outside Seating every day beginning at 4 PM bedside manner. I feel that the people of Saugus will look past the coarse exterior and realize that he has their best interests at heart. I feel that the strong economy will continue to grow and that people realize that the best social program is a good paying job with good benefi ts. President Trump is the man to continue to make this happen. Q: All in all, has mail-in voting been a great thing for the voters of Saugus and the rest of Massachusetts? Malone: Absolutely; anything that expands the turnout is a really great thing. We want more and more people voting. No question about that. We should have a big turnout out. We already have so far, and we still have several days of early voting left. Friday (Oct. 30) is the last day. Harrington: I am not a fan of early voting because late revelations can change the minds of voters. Q: How are you voting on the two ballot questions in Massachusetts? Malone: I’m voting “Yes” on WE'RE OPEN! 8 Norwood Street, Everett (617) 387-9810 STAY SAFE! Question 1. I want the small repair shops to repair my car. I want to pick the person who fi xes my car. I don’t think the big dealerships should have a monopoly. On Question 2, I’m voting “No.” I don’t think we need it in Massachusetts. It’s just going to cause some confusion. I think we’re in pretty good shape. Harrington: I support a “Yes” vote on question #1. It gives independent repair shops access to the information to reA BUSINESS CHECKING ACCOUNT THAT CHECKS ALL THE BOXES. LOW MONTHLY FEES - ONLINE BANKING & BILL PAY REMOTE DEPOSIT CAPTURE - COIN SERVICES TALK TO US TODAY ABOUT OUR DIFFERENT BUSINESS CHECKING ACCOUNTS. WE’LL HELP YOU FIND THE RIGHT OPTION. 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I think he will bring some good ideas to improve things in the country. He has a great running mate in Kamala Harris. It’s a good team and they will do a good job. And I think Joe Biden will do a better job in handling the virus. I think the Democrats will do a better job on health insurance. Harrington: I hope and pray for a vaccine and cure for COVID-19. In addition, I hope that fears about long-term side eff ects or permanent disabling consequences from it are just fears, rather than reality. I look forward to this election being over and a winner declared Tuesday evening. THIS WEEK ON SAUGUS TV Friday, October 30 at 9 p.m. on Channel 8 – “Friday Night Frights” (scary movies). Saturday (Halloween), October 31 all day on Channel 8 – scary movies. Sunday, November 1 from 9–11 p.m. on Channel 8 – “Sunday Night Stooges” (The Three Stooges). Monday, November 2 all day on Channel 8 – “Movie Monday” (classic movies). Tuesday, November 3 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 9 – Board of Selectmen Meeting from October 27. Wednesday, November 4 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 9 – School Committee Meeting from October 29. Thursday, November 5 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 22 – Field Hockey vs. Peabody from October 23. Friday, November 6 at 8 p.m. on Channel 22 – Field Hockey vs. Gloucester from October 26. Saugus TV can be seen on Comcast Channels 8, 9 & 22 (Public, Governmental and Educational). For complete schedules, please visit www.saugustv.org. ***programming may change without notice*** For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 617-387-2200 or RIGHT BY YOU Info@advocatenews.net
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 Page 7 Town announces the promotion of Patrol Officer Klimarchuk to sergeant V eteran Saugus Police Offi - cer Alexander Klimarchuk is the Police Department’s newest sergeant. “Congratulations to Sgt. Klimarchuk on this well-deserved promotion,” Chief Michael Ricciardelli said in a press release issued by the Saugus Police Department this week. “Sgt. Klimarchuk has proven himself to be deeply dedicated to police work and serving our community, and we are confi - dent he will thrive in this role.” Offi cer Klimarchuk, 33, was sworn in as a sergeant by Saugus Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree last week (Tuesday, Oct. 20) at an outdoor ceremony at the Saugus Town Hall on Central Street. “It is an honor and a privilege to promote Sergeant Klimarchuk, and I want to congratulate him and his family,” Crabtree said in a statement issued by his offi ce. “Sergeant NEW SERGEANT WELCOMED: Left to right, Saugus Police Chief Michael Ricciardelli, new Sgt. Alexander Klimarchuk and Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree last week after Klimarchuk’s swearing-in ceremony. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) FOR SALE $989,900 SALES • RENTALS • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT VARADA PROPERTIES service with integrity Serving Greater Boston Since 2008 TWO-FAMILY PROPERY westside • prime location 8 ELSIE STREET • MALDEN INCOME POTENTIAL 617 • 606 • 0172 PROMOTED: Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree, right, swears in Saugus Police Offi cer Alexander Klimarchuk as a new sergeant during a ceremony outside Town Hall last week. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) Klimarchuk has been an exemplary member of our Public Safety Department and I am confi dent that he will excel in his new role and continue to serve our Town and its residents and visitors to the best of his abilities.” Sgt. Klimarchuk will be the Patrol Supervisor on the overnight shift, where he will have a direct supervisory role overseeing and managing all employees assigned to the patrol division, according to Chief Ricciardelli. He is currently participating in a four-week Sergeant’s fi eld training program within the department, and he is also scheduled to undergo 56 hours of New Supervisor training over the course of the next few months. Sgt. Klimarchuk has served as a patrol offi cer for the last fi ve years at the Saugus Police Department and joined the department in July 2014. He also has served as the Field Training Offi cer and the Juvenile Aff airs Detective during his time with the Saugus Police Department. He was previously a platoon sergeant for the United States Marine Corps, where he served for eight years. Sgt. Klimarchuk holds a bachelor’s degree in Justice Studies from Southern New Hampshire University. He is a graduate of the Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC) Boylston 23rd Recruit Officer Course and he has a MPTC Defensive Tactics Instructor Certification with in-academy training experience.
Page 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 Saugus gardens in the pandemic Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable By Laura Eisener W e still have some beautiful flowers, colorful leaves and bountiful fruits to enjoy on walks around town. On porches and gardens, Halloween decorations run from whimsical to terrifying, and it looks like people have put extra eff ort into festive decor this year. One tree that could be a scary sight in its most frequent natural form is honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos) because of large, branching thorns on stems and even protruding from the trunk, but luckily our street trees are of the thornless variety! Wild trees found in central North America have thorns as long as four inches, and they may be single straight thorns or may have several branching thorns from the main one. This tree species also can produce large six- to eight-inch-long pods full of seeds. While interesting and A HALLOWEEN PORCH: The front steps of Laura Eisener’s home in Saugus are decked out with plants and pumpkins of festive fall colors and a Halloween cat. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) sometimes considered decorative, the pods can clutter streets and gardens. Luckily, quite a few thornless and “podless” varieties are available from nurseries, so most gardeners can enjoy the good features of this tree and avoid its worst features. Beautiful golden fall color and a light airy canopy are among the big selling points of this tree. The leaflets on the large compound leaves are only about an inch long, and fall individually, so there is less that needs to be raked – by the time you notice they have fallen they may have HONEY LOCUST COMPOUND LEAVES: Beautiful golden fall color and a light airy canopy are among the big selling points of this tree. The leafl ets on the large compound leaves are only about an inch long. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) blown away down the street! These trees were all the rage in the 1970s and early 1980s, and many towns planted them heavily in parks and along streets. Several of the shopping center parking lots along Route 1 have attractive honey locusts, now turning gold, and there are quite a few along Central Street in the Saugus Center area, at the Veterans Memorial School and many other locations around town. Beware if you are strolling A TROPICAL PARADISE IN SAUGUS? Yes! At the Matt home on Summer Drive. The palms in the pots are cataract palms, and the tall one planted in the ground is a majestic palm. You can also see busy Lizzie impatiens and New Guinea impatiens, and growing up near the roof line are some pink roses called “Queen Elizabeth” still blooming this week! (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Jamai Matt) around the Summer Drive neighborhood – you could stumble upon a tropical paradise. I’m sure most Saugonians would do a double take if they were walking around town and suddenly encountered palm trees! For the past seven years, the Matt family has been planting a garden that would make you think you’d been transported to the islands. This year there are four palm trees in the front yard and 13 in the back yard, along with other tender plants, such as cordyline (Cordyline terminalis), canna lilies (canna hybrids), Abyssinian banana (Ensete ventricosum ‘Maurelii’), banana (Musa paradisiaca), busy Lizzie impatiens (Impatiens walleriana), New Guinea impatiens (Impatiens hawkeri) and hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis). While some of the plants, such as the impatiens, will be familiar to gardeners who may have planted them in pots, window boxes or garden beds as annuals, they are likely to be less familiar with majestic palms, spindle palms, areca palms, cataract palms and fan palms, which can also be found in this garden. The two taller palms in the front yard are majestic palms (Ravenia rivularis). Native to Madagascar, they can grow nearly 100 feet tall in their native habitat! The potted palms on each side of the front walk are usually GARDENS | SEE PAGE 11 Monogram D4 Double siding Cedar impression half rounds Harvey Vinyl 62 Replacement Windows Custom Aluminum Trim work Windows & Doors Top quality Vinyl Siding! •Vinyl Siding •Carpentry Work •Decks •Roofing •Free Estimates •Replacement Windows •Fully Licensed •Fully Insured
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 Page 9 The Coronavirus Count State reports 53 new cases confi rmed in Saugus during a one-week period as town hangs in the red T he state Department of Public Health (DPH) this week reported an additional 53 confi rmed cases of COVID-19 over a week-long period ending Tuesday (Oct. 27). In the biggest spike since the outbreak of the virus back in March, the new statistics provided by the DPH increased the overall total to 861 confi rmed cases of COVID-19. Meanwhile, the death toll remained at 43. The state’s latest “Weekly COVID-19 Public Health Report” was due to be released late yesterday, but was not available at press time. But the most recent numbers available Wednesday appear to show that Saugus was headed for its third consecutive week as being one of a growing number of communities marked as “red” for high risk on the DPH COVID map. As of Tuesday, there were 106 confirmed cases of the virus reported over a recent 15-day period (Oct. 12-27). Last week’s (Oct. 22) daily incidence rate released by the state was 17.8 new cases per 100,000 over a 14-day period (Oct. 4-17) – the 13th highest rate in the state and up from 10.6 the previous week. Governor Charlie Baker’s new metric for understanding how much the virus has spread locally shows the number of cases detected on average each day over the last two weeks in each of Massachusetts’s communities. More than 8 cases per 100,000 translates to high risk, between 4 and 8 cases per 100,000 is moderate risk and any less than that is low risk. Cities and towns shaded red on the COVID-19 map have the highest risk level. COVID-19 testing sites info from the Town of Saugus – Oct. 21 update “The Town of Saugus has partnered with the Commonwealth, AFC Urgent Care, Fallon Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and the Square One Mall as a collaborative effort to work to downgrade the Town’s designated “High Risk” red COVID-19 status by establishing and extending the following COVID-19 testing sites in Saugus: “AFC Urgent Care, located at 371 Broadway, is currently off ering free testing by appointment on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Please register online at afcurgentcaresaugus.com. Call (781) 233-1000 for more information. AFC Saugus will be participating in Stop the Spread up through October 31st. “Fallon EMS at the Square One Mall (Far Side Parking Lot on Essex Street), located at 1201 Broadway with entry off of Essex Street, will offer free mobile drive-up testing in for Saugus residents in their cars Monday through Saturday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. No appointment is needed. [Residents] drive-up and register using a tablet when they arrive. Saugus Police will be assisting with traffic. The testing site will be staff ed by 1012 individuals to handle registrations. All samples go directly to the Broad [Institute] in Cambridge for immediate testing with a 24-36 hour turnaround time. Notifi cation of results will be made for negative results via emails while phone calls will be made for positive COVID-19 results. These sites do close when it rains because of risk of test contamination. This site has recently been extended until January 15, 2021. “This information will be on the Town’s website and on the state’s website: https:// www.mass.gov/info-details/ stop-the-spread?rgja#saugus-” Additional info from the Town of Saugus “The Board of Health and the Saugus Health Department will continue to partner with the state and are working on a planned response to the COVID-19. They are analyzing the data from the past couple of weeks and developing specifi c strategies to combat the spread through additional enforcement and intervention measures. We need to do whatever is necessary to keep ourselves, family, neighbors, and communities safe. Continue to wear your masks, wash hands, avoid gatherings, and continue to follow the CDC and MDPH guidelines. “The Saugus Health DepartCASH FOR GOLD CORONAVIRUS | SEE PAGE 22 WE’RE BUYING GOLD SILVER PLATINUM DIAMONDS Class rings, wedding sets, pendants, earrings,pins, broaches, watches, dental, coins Redeem this coupon for up to an extra $50 in CASH toward your transaction You will receive $25 CASH on any $100 transaction $50 CASH on any $500 transaction Veterans receive an additional 10% back Exclude coin and better. Not to be combined with any other offer. 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Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 The greatest second baseman in MLB history L By The Old Sachem, Bill Stewart ast week I honored one of the greatest policemen that ever served in Saugus, John Naglieri, and men~ LETTER TO THE EDITOR ~ Congressman Moulton urges residents to stay away from Salem this weekend Dear Editor: We have done so much work to fight the pandemic and bring it down from its peak. We cannot afford to sacrifice those gains now. The longer this virus drags on, the longer people and businesses will suffer. As Salem’s Mayor Kim Driscoll has said, this is not the year to come to Salem. Please spread the word if you know anyone thinking about visiting: there’s no parking and it’s not going to be the fun time you’re expecting. Come shop, dine or visit Salem another weekend. That’s not to say it’s unsafe to celebrate Halloween. The best tip I’ve heard is from a 9-year-old who wrote Governor Baker asking that people hand out king size bars to avoid the risk of kids rooting through a bucket of fun size candy. For as long as this virus keeps affecting us, my team and I will continue updating our coronavirus resource website to keep you informed. We also maintain a regular reading list of top studies and news stories on the virus. You can always get the latest information on the virus from the Massachusetts’ Stop the Spread website. Sincerely, Seth Moulton Congressman tioned my son Mike as a retired Saugus policeman and my grandson, Will’s son Michael, a policeman in Watertown. My wife criticized me for forgetting all the other members of our family who have done or are now doing public service. So now I will update the public service of my family. Starting with policemen, there is Frank McKinnon, husband of my daughter Ellen, who serves in Saugus, and served in the US Army in Afghanistan, along with Bill Kirkland, son-in-law of my son Bob, in Colorado, who also served in Afghanistan. My youngest son, Charlie, is a firefighter and EMT in Cambridge and served in the Marines. My brother Jim served in the Navy, and my Uncle Jim served in the US Army in the Battle of the Bulge in Europe in the second World War. I served in the US Army in Japan. My daughter, Ellen, is a lab technician for Lahey Hospital, and she and my wife were elected and served in the Saugus Town Meeting. Ellen’s daughter, Brooke, is a nurse in Brigham Hospital in Boston. My son Tom is a manager for the Social Security Administration and served in Saugus Town Meeting and in the Saugus School Committee. The last area of public service by the family is in education. My son Bob and Ellen’s son Grant are teachers in Aspen, Colorado; Tom’s daughter, Alison, is a teacher in North Reading, and my son Mike’s daughter Kiley and her partner Samantha are teachers in the Boston School system. I retired after 20 plus years as an Adjunct Professor at Bunker Hill Community College. I have been elected to Town Meeting over a span of 20 years and served as a School Committeeman and Chairman of the Saugus Housing Authority. Public service is a very honored function in the Stewart family. Now we get to the sports section of the week’s column. Joe Morgan was a baseball Hall of Famer who played in the major leagues for Houston, Cincinnati, San Francisco, Philadelphia and Oakland. Morgan was born September 19, 1943, in Bonham, Texas, and died October 11, 2020, in Danville, California. When he was five years old, the family moved to Oakland. His baseball career began as a standout infielder at Castlemont High School but did not receive any interest by professional baseball teams. He went on to play for Oakland City College and was signed by the Houston Colt .45s, the forerunner of the Astros. He played in the majors for 21 seasons, mostly for the Cincinnati Reds, and was the second baseman for the World Champions Reds in 1975 and 76. As a player his nickname was “Little Joe” – he stood only 5 feet 7 inches. He had trouble as a batter early in his career; his back elbow was kept too low. Nellie Fox, a teammate, suggested that Joe should flap his back arm like a chicken to keep his elbow up. He played 10 seasons for Houston and was twice selected for the All-Star team. He was traded to the Reds in November 1971 in a blockbuster deal where the Astros gave up five players to the Reds while the Astros gave up three, including All-Star second baseman Tommie Helms. With the Reds, Morgan had eight consecutive All-Star appearances in addition to the two he had with the Astros. He, along with Pete Rose at the top of the order, Johnny Bench, Tony Perez and Dave Concepcion presented problems to the opponents. Morgan became a power hitter with the Reds. In the 1975 World Series, he drove in Ken Griffey for the winning run in game seven for the championship. He was selected as the National League MVP in 1975 and 76. Although his batting average in the major leagues varied between .236 and .327, and because of a large amount of bases on balls, his on-base percentage was .392. Morgan had 2,517 hits, 449 doubles, 96 triples, 268 home runs, 1,133 runs batted in, 689 stolen bases and 1,865 walks. Morgan became a free agent for the 1980 season and was a member of the Astro team that won the National League title for the NL West. He next appeared with the San Francisco Giants for two seasons. His next team was the Philadelphia Phillies, where he joined ex-teammates Pete Rose and Tony Perez. He was with the Phillies when they lost the World Series to the Baltimore Orioles and finished his playing days with the Oakland Athletics. Cincinnati dedicated a statue for Morgan in 2013 at the Great American Ball Park. They had previously named him to the Cincinnati Hall of Fame in 1987. In the “New Bill James Historical Baseball Abstract,” Bill James named Morgan the best second baseman in MLB history ahead of #2 Eddie Collins and #3 Rogers Hornsby. In 1999 Morgan was ranked Number 60 on the Sporting News list of the 100 Greatest Baseball Players and was nominated as a finalist for the MLB All-Century Team. He became a broadcaster for the Reds in 1985 and in 1986 began a nine-year run as a broadcaster for the San Francisco Giants, and then one year with Oakland. He was hired by ESPN in 1986 to broadcast Monday Night Baseball and the College World Series. He broadcast for ABC Sports in 1988 and 89, NBC Sports in 1994 to 2000. During his time with NBC he was part of the team that called three World Series, four AllStar games, three American League Championship Series and three National League Championships. At ESPN he broadcast Sunday Night Baseball, three league championship series, and World Series Championships. In 2006 he called the Little League World Series with Brent Musburger and Orel Hershiser and called some MLB games during the season. In 2015 he was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome, which developed into leukemia, and received a bone transplant from one of his daughters. He died at home in 2020, the greatest second baseman in MLB history. For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 617-387-2200 or Info@advocatenews.net
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 Page 11 Community sponsors put smile on seniors’ faces during trunk-or-treat By Tara Vocino A pproximately 170 Saugus senior citizens felt Senior Center Director Joanne Olsen (good witch) handed senior citizen Shirley Fallon Halloween items. Seniors Nancy Giardina and Mary Scolastico got out of their car to take a closer look at the Halloween gifts. the community’s generosity during last Friday’s trunkor-treat at the Senior Center. Community sponsors included the Friends of the Senior Center, which sponsored a grab-and-go luncheon featuring Harrows Chicken Pies; Wheelabrator Saugus donated pumpkins and bottles of honey, and Chestnut Woods Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center donated cookies, according to Senior Center Director Joanne Olsen. Senior Center staff hand-delivered these items inside seniors’ cars while socially distant in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Senior Center Director Joanne Olsen (good witch) was glad to see seniors Charles and Sis Varney. Senior Carolyn Gunther said her favorite item was Harrows chicken potpie, while Judith Rigano’s favorite was a pumpkin. Pauline Nelson, Wheelabrator Saugus Community Relations Specialist Stephanie Mastrocola and Ed Nelson said the event made them aware of the community’s generosity. GARDENS | FROM PAGE 8 called cataract palms. Cataract palm (Chamaedorea cataractarum), which is native to Mexico and Central America, is also known as cat palm or cascade palm. It often grows along rivers and waterfalls, and even in its native habitat is rarely over six feet in height. The entire family gets into the gardening project and helps out with the maintenance demanded by these Board of Directors Member Gloria Johnson said she’s grateful for the support from the Senior Center and the community, especially during the pandemic. special plants. Janai Matt says, “My husband and I love the feel and beauty of the tropical plants. It gives us the opportunity to bring the tropics to us. Our neighbors also enjoy it and tell us they love to see the palm trees. My husband was a landscape designer many years ago, and has always enjoyed gardening.” In addition to the tropical plants, there are many other interesting horticultural features, such as pruned topiary and a pale pink ‘Queen Elizabeth’ rose that nearly reaches the roof! Of course we are all keeping an eye out for the inevitable frost which puts an end to the gardening season. Some of the Matts’ tropical plants can winter over in their sunroom; bulbs, such as the cannas, can be stored dormant overwinter, but the palms are too tall to fit in the house. The tropical hibiscus is a popular house plant, and some people manWheelabrator Saugus Communications Officer Stephanie Mastrocola appreciated veteran William Stewart’s Old Sachem mask. (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) age to keep them for a number of years, though part of the challenge is that the tropical plants don’t always like the same temperatures and humidity that the human residents do. The travel restrictions put in place because of COVID-19 this year make it seem less likely that most of us will be experiencing a tropical climate any time soon, but this family seems to have found a great antidote. Editor’s Note: Laura Eisener is a landscape design consultant who helps homeowners with landscape design, plant selection and placement of trees and shrubs, as well as perennials. She is a member of the Saugus Garden Club and offered to write a series of articles about “what’s blooming in town, since so many people have taken to walking the streets in their neighborhoods as a way to get some exercise and get out of the house!”
Page 12 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 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. Have a safe Halloween! Some communities are discouraging or cancelling Halloween events because of the potential exposure to the Coronavirus. Saugus does not have any Town of Saugus–sponsored events, so the town is leaving it up to families as to whether they want their children to go trick-or-treating as the community observes Halloween tomorrow night (Saturday, Oct. 31). “The Health Department and the town are urging people to follow the state guidelines regarding Halloween and Trick or Treating,” Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree said. “That is wearing masks or face coverings, practicing social distancing and washing your hands – things that stop the spread of the virus. And remember to exercise caution and not take anything for granted, as 45 to 50 percent of people who have the virus show no symptoms.” To follow-up on the town manager’s advice, we offer the following from the state Department of Public Health website, from the section titled “Tips for a Safe and Healthy Halloween.” “Residents and communities should follow safe and healthy tips to participate in Halloween activities that may limit the risk of exposure to COVID-19. As a reminder, any Halloween activities are subject to the current state gathering size limits as well as applicable sector-specific workplace safety standards. “Consistent with the Halloween activity guidance released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some things to keep in mind in celebrating Halloween this year include: • Enjoy Halloween outside rather than attending indoor events. • Place candy on a platter instead of a bowl • Instead of traditional trick or treating, opt for oneway trick-or-treating, with treats placed outside of the home for trick-or-treaters as a “grab and go” while keeping distance from others. • Consider leaving hand sanitizer by any treats left out for trick-or-treaters to use. • Wear a face mask or face covering. For more information on face masks and face coverings, please see the state’s Mask Up MA webpage. • A costume mask is not a substitute for a face mask or face covering. To protect yourself and others, ensure you are wearing a protective face mask or covering instead of or in addition to a costume mask. • Observe good hand hygiene, including hand washing and use of alcohol-based sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol. Carry hand sanitizer and use it often, especially after coming into contact with frequently touched surfaces and before eating candy. • Refrain from touching your face. • Decorate your yard for others to enjoy from their car or while on a socially-distanced walk. • Hold virtual costume contests or pumpkin carving events. • Celebrate with members of your household with a Halloween-themed meal, Halloween movie night, or by preparing a Halloween scavenger hunt. • Maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet of physical distance from all other participants who are not members of the same household. • Avoid: • Attending crowded costume parties held indoors, or any gatherings that exceed indoor or outdoor gathering limits; • Going to an indoor haunted house where people may be crowded together and screaming; and • Going on hayrides or tractor rides with people who are not in your household. • Stay home and refrain from Halloween activities, including handing out Halloween treats, if: • you feel unwell; • you have tested positive for COVID-19; • you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19; or • you have traveled to or from a state that is not classified as lower risk within the last 14 days. For more information on lower risk states, please see the state’s COVID-19 Travel Order webpage.” policy that is withdrawn from his pension before it’s deposited. I went ahead and filed a fraud complaint with the bank, alleging unauthorized access to the account. The fraud division wrapped up its investigation in two weeks and got the health insurance company to give the money back. It was an incomplete job by the bank. I wanted to GUESS WHO GOT SKETCHED? In this week’s edition, we continue our weekly feature where a local artist goes out and mingles with townsfolk and sketches them. Got an idea who this Saugus resident might be? If you do, please email me at mvoge@comcast.net or leave a phone message at 978-683-7773. The first reader to respond between now and Tuesday morning and correctly identify the person sketched is the winner of a $10 gift certificate, compliments of Dunkin’ at the 1204 Broadway Saugus location at Route 1 North. But you have to enter to win! Look for the winner and identification in next week’s “The Sounds of Saugus.” (Courtesy illustration to The Saugus Advocate by a Saugonian who goes by the name of “The Sketch Artist”) Watch out for the fraudsters! Ever since I became my brother’s active power of attorney in July of last year, I’ve lost a lot of faith in the competence and integrity of banks, health care agencies and insurance companies. It seems like some of them don’t give a darn about the welfare of senior citizens and are eager to fleece them at the drop of the hat. A year ago, I had to threaten an insurance company based in Kansas City with filing complaints with the state insurance commissioners in Missouri and Massachusetts and several federal government agencies if they didn’t return more than $32,000 that my brother was owed when I called in the rider that allowed him to recover 80 percent of his premiums after 13 years on a useless policy. When I paid ($2,500) to extend the policy one more year to collect nearly all of his premiums, the company cancelled his policy and returned a check for a measly $2,000, adding that their obligation was fulfilled. But after I mailed the threat, the company backed down and quickly forwarded a check for $32,000. They indicated in the cover letter to my brother that there was a misunderstanding and that a second check was in the mail. Sure, about a month after I filed a complaint. Recently, I had another go-around with a health insurance company that I never heard of, which had made unauthorized bank draft withdrawals from my brother’s checking account – four of them totaling more than $1,700. The timing was suspect, because health insurance companies don’t begin charging for monthly coverage in August or September – especially for a retired school teacher who already has a great know the answers to two simple questions: why the health insurance company was charging my brother in the first place and how it gained access to my brother’s checking account when it never had permission to withdraw from the account. I offer this experience to readers who might be monitoring the checking account of a family member, friend or relative. If you see a questionable, unauthorized expense, file the complaint immediately. Don’t become a victim of these fraudsters. In most cases, they will back down when challenged because they don’t want to be facing criminal prosecution. Be on the PEG Cable Access Board Feel like doing some volunteer work for the Town of Saugus? Well, Wendy Reed, Clerk of the Saugus Board of Selectmen, told us about this opportunity: The Saugus Board of Selectmen is accepting applications for appointment to the PEG Cable Access Board of Directors in the Town of Saugus. These are volunteer / non paid positions for Saugus residents. Those interested may submit letter of interest / resume to: Saugus Board of Selectmen Saugus Town Hall 298 Central St. Saugus For more details, please call Wendy at (781) 2314124. THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | SEE PAGE 13
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 Page 13 THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | FROM PAGE 12 Cultural Council seeks funding proposals Attention, creative people! The Saugus Cultural Council is looking for you. Proposals for community-oriented arts, humanities and science programs will be considered for possible grants totaling $7,000. The council has set a Nov. 16 deadline for organizations, schools and individuals to apply for grants that support cultural activities in the community. According to Council Chair Mike Sullivan, these grants can support a variety of artistic projects and activities in Saugus – including exhibits, festivals, field trips or short-term artist residencies, or performances in schools, workshops and lectures. The Saugus Cultural Council is part of a network of 329 Local Cultural Councils serving all 351 cities and towns in the Commonwealth. The LCC Program is the largest grassroots cultural funding network in the nation, supporting thousands of community-based projects in the arts, sciences and humanities every year. The state legislature provides an annual appropriation to the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency, which then allocates funds to each community. Previously funded Saugus projects have included: a field trip to see Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” an artist workshop at Breakheart Reservation, dramatic performances and local author speaking engagements. For local guidelines and complete information on the Saugus Cultural Council, contact Mike Sullivan at michaelsullivan027@gmail.com. Application forms and more information about the LCC program are available online at www.mass-culture.org or https:// mcc.smartsimple.com/s_Login.jsp. We have a winner! We have a winner in last week’s “Guess Who Got Sketched” contest. Congratulations to Donna Manoogian. She contacted us first and guessed correctly. Thanks to many other readers who sent the correct answer by email or phone message. Try again this week. 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 (Oct. 23) is Our own Lovely Saugus Advocate contributing writer Laura Eisener. Laura is a life long Saugus resident. She lives two streets away from the house on Newcomb Street that her Grandfather built and her mother was born in. She is a Saugus High School Class of 1973 and Historical Society President 9 + yrs. Laura lives with her husband (Paul Kenworthy, longtime park ranger at Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site) and niece who both work in Saugus. “She was awarded the Ma. Horticultural Society Silver medal in 2007. She holds a Master’s degree in landscaping and Bachelors in Botany & Anthropology. She’s been an Instructor [25+] yrs. at Boston Architectural College and 6+ yrs. an Instructor teaching a class in Urban Tree care at North Shore Comm. College. Laura’s been Associate Editor of People, Places & plants magazine 2001-2009 co-author of Newton Conservators Almanac. She serves on the Saugus Tree Committee. “We are so grateful to have her floral graces for our Town of Saugus writing the weekly ‘Saugus Gardens in the Pandemic!’ Thankyou Laura! “Yours Truly, The Sketch Artist” A few Halloween inspired Saugus Advocate readers were in great spirits this “Shout-Outs.” week, so much that we received a number of shoutouts worth sharing. We received nominations from: Sue Fleming: “I would like to give a shout out to the staff at the Saugus Senior Center. They have been great since the lockdown started on organizing Grab and Go lunches for the seniors in town and Grab and Go veggie boxes for us as well. Kudos to them all!” Shirley Bogdan: “Friends of the Senior Center for donating Harrow’s Chicken Pot Pies, to Chestnut Woods and Wheelabrator for the…goodie bags and the Pumpkin Patch for the pumpkins – all given to seniors on Friday morning. What a spooky surprise driving into the senior center parking lot on that sunny Friday morning and being greeted by the staff and representative from the donating organizations. The Saugus seniors appreciate all the great meals that have been given to them during this unsettling time. Virtual hugs to all.” Gloria Johnson: “I would like to shout Out to Wheelabrator and Friends of The Senior Center for providing Seniors with grab & go lunches. A BIG Thankyou to Joanne and Joanne, Laurie, lynette and Cheryl for doing wellness checks to all our seniors. Thankyou for providing a safe space outdoors in the parking lot 6-10 feet apart with masks to continue with singing groups and knitting groups. It has kept us connected during the isolation.” 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 the 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 photo. In Person Early voting ends today In Person Early voting wraps up today (Friday, Oct. 30) from 9 a.m. to noon at the Saugus Public Library at 295 Central St. Use the Taylor Street entrance. Town Clerk Ellen J. Schena also wanted to let folks know that Monday (Nov. 2) will be the last day to apply for an Absentee Ballot. The deadline is noon. And, of course, next Tuesday (Nov. 3) is the 2020 State/Presidential Election. The polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Town-Wide Fall Street Sweeping underway Sweepers started in the area of north Saugus (Precincts 5 and 7) and are working their way across town, working from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Residents are kindly asked to keep vehicles off the street when sweepers are in the area. Locals may assist the Department of Public Works by sweeping their driveways or sidewalks into the gutter area prior to the program’s start. Residents are asked not to sweep driveways and/or sidewalks once the sweepers have swept. Keep in mind that street sweepers are unable to collect stones, branches, leaves or other foreign objects. In addition, residents are asked to be mindful that sweepers cannot pick up large piles of sand. Please contact the Department of Public Works at 781-231-4143 with any questions. Fall Curbside Leaf Collection Dates The Town of Saugus announced that Fall Curbside Leaf Collection will take place during the following weeks: Nov. 16–20 and Nov. 30–Dec. 4. Residents should place leaves outside by 7 a.m. during their regularly scheduled collection day. Please ensure that leaf containers are physically separated from trash and recycling. Paper leaf bags are the preferred method of leaf disposal; however, if using barrels, they must be clearly marked with yard waste stickers. Stickers, which are free, may be obtained at Inspectional Services in the lower level of Town Hall at 298 Central St., in Saugus. Barrel covers must remain removed so that the leaves are visible. Plastic bags, cardboard boxes, branches and brush will not be accepted. Please note that separate trucks collect the rubbish, recycling and leaves, so the leaves may be collected at a different time of day. “Missed pick-ups” will not be conducted. Please contact Lorna Cerbone at 781-231-4036 with any questions. Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus (HS2) Due to the school closure on Tuesday, Nov. 3/Election Day, the grab-n-go meals that are normally distributed at the Veteran’s Memorial Elementary School will be distributed on Monday, Nov. 2 instead. The pick-up hours of 11 a.m.-1 p.m. will remain the same. Friday’s distribution will remain the same. Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus (HS2), in partnership with Whitsons Food Service, resumed the meals program. Breakfasts and lunches are customarily available for pick up at Veterans Memorial School at 39 Hurd Ave. every Tuesday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. weekly until further notice, according to Julie Cicolini, a board member with Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus. “Students will receive meals for Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at the Tuesday pick up,” Cicolini said. “Students will receive meals for Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays at the Friday pick up. This will ensure that meals are available for seven days a week.” “As a reminder, please maintain social distancing with food service employees and wear a mask during pick up,” she said. HS2 is a nonprofit group that helps to offset food insecurity in households. HS2 provides a supply of nutritious food for weekends or school holidays during the school year. For more information or assistance, please email hs2information@gmail.com or visit the Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus Facebook page. Food Pantry still open The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry will continue to remain open on Fridays between 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. despite concerns over the Coronavirus. But they have made adjustments to protect their core of volunteers and the needy people who receive the food. “For the protection of our volunteers & clients, and to limit personal contact & crowding/gathering, the food pantry has been distributing pre-bagged groceries,” said Wendy Reed, Clerk of the Saugus Board of Selectmen, who also oversees the operation of the all-volunteer food pantry. “We understand clients may receive items they don’t want or need, but 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. Food help for veterans Saugus offers a Veterans Food Pantry on the third Wednesday of each month. “We have been holding it in Melrose since the Saugus Senior Center has been closed,” Saugus Veterans Services Officer Jay Pinette says. “The pantry provides a mix of fresh produce and non-perishable foods. The pantry is open to Veterans and/or surviving spouses. Registration is required and may be done by contacting the Veterans Services Office…we are currently offering a contact-free, drive-thru food pantry at Memorial Hall on Main Street in Melrose. If you are unable to pick-up, some limited deliveries may be available. This offering is year round. Please call the Saugus Veterans’ Service Office at 781-231-4010 or e-mail VeteransServices@ saugus-ma.gov in order to register. Proof of Veteran status is required.” Saugus Public Library Front Door Pickup “We continue to offer our popular Front Door Pickup service from the Central Street foyer on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. “Pickup Hours are: “Tuesday: 3:30 to 6:30 pm “Wednesday: 10:30 am to 2 pm “Thursday: 3:30 to 6:30 pm THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | SEE PAGE 14
Page 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | FROM PAGE 13 “How do you use Front Door Pickup? To get started, go to our online catalog. Click on the green MY ACCOUNT button in the screen’s upper right. Login in to your account using your library card number and password, then simply place items on hold. How do you do that? Watch this video [https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=j0m7bB5HyA0&feature=youtu.be] for step by step instructions. “Once we notify you that your items are ready, call us at 781-231-4168 ext. 3102 to set a pickup date. Or you can call us at the same number to reserve up to three items over the phone. “Either way, you must make an appointment to pickup once your items are ready. Call us to set a pickup date at 781-231-4168 ext. 3102. “Please leave a voicemail if you don’t get through. We’ll return your call and set a pickup day as soon as we can.” Buy a brick to honor your vets “Veterans Buy-a-Brick Program. Due to the low number of orders and the uncertainty of how a Veterans Day ceremony will be allowed, the program will be extended until May. The installation of bricks will be during the Memorial Day ceremony. We will be contacting the people who have already purchased a brick. Any questions, please call 781-231-7995.” Helping the Vet During these challenging times, your local Veterans’ Service Officers (VSOs) would like to share some information on a benefit program that is available to those who qualify. If you are a Veteran or the surviving spouse of a Veteran, the “Chapter 115 Benefits Program” is a Massachusetts state initiative that provides financial aid for Veterans and/or their surviving spouses who reside in Massachusetts and meet certain income and asset guidelines. Benefits may include monthly ordinary benefits and/or payment/reimbursement for medical expenses. Whether laid off, in transition or living on a fixed income, the program is designed to provide short-term or long-term assistance as needed to provide relief. The program is overseen by the Massachusetts Department Veterans’ Services (DVS), which runs the program in partnership with local VSOs. Every town or district in Massachusetts has a VSO. VSOs assist Veterans and their dependents in learning about, applying for and receiving Chapter 115 benefits. VSOs can also help you in applying for other benefits and connecting with local resources. Your local VSO handles applications, obtains program approval from DVS and provides local benefits. The program is funded by a combination of state and local funds. DVS pays for 75% and your city or town pays for 25% of the approved benefits. There are income and asset limits for the program. As a general rule, income and asset requirements are: Family of one – monthly income less than $2,081and an asset limit of $5,000; family of two – monthly income less than $2,818 and an asset limit of $9,800 To determine if you may be eligible for financial assistance through the Chapter 115 program, visit the following link and follow the instructions – https:// massvetben.org/ – or call your local VSO for more information. The VSOs are able to help Veterans apply for Federal VA benefits and local benefits and provide food assistance monthly. For example, did you know that if you own a home and have a VA service–connected disability, you are eligible for a partial or full exemption of your property taxes? “Please contact your local Veterans’ Service Officer for more information on any of the services mentioned. We are all here to assist. We are regularly checking voicemails and emails as we continue to work remotely and in our offices throughout COVID-19.” Melrose: Karen Burke, 781-979-4186, kburke@cityofmelrose.org Wakefield: David Mangan, 781-246-6377, dmangan@wakefield.ma.us Saugus: Jay Pinette, 781-231-4010, jpinette@saugus-ma.gov A Beetlejuice benefit tonight at Kowloon Restaurant The Kowloon Restaurant, which is owned and operated by the Wong family, is set to host the movie “Beetlejuice” in a Halloween benefit for Winter Walk, a philanthropic organization that raises awareness and funds in an effort to end homelessness in Greater Boston. The event – hosted by Sue Brady Hartigan (Boston radio talent and Winter Walk Event Committee) – is set for today (Friday, Oct. 30). Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and movie time is at 7 p.m. at Kowloon Restaurant, Route 1 North in Saugus. Admission is $75 per parking spot (for up to six people) and $50 per table (for up to four people). Guests can bring their own blankets and lawn chairs for the turf area. The movie is shown in the outdoor dining area and is socially distanced. Guests are invited to dress up in costume for Halloween, and the most creative costume wins a prize. Winter Walk – founded by Paul English (Kayak co-founder & CEO of Lola) – raises awareness and funds toward an end to homelessness in Greater Boston. Winter Walk is a two-mile walk which begins at and ends on Copley Plaza. Participants, housed and homeless, will walk together and hear real stories of Boston’s homeless population. The 2021 Winter Walk – presented with Boston Medical Center (BMC) and Boston Medical Center HealthNet Plan (BMCHP) – is set for both a live and virtual event on Sunday, February 7, 2021. 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 more than four and a half 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 15- to 20-minute interview while practicing social distancing outside a local coffee shop. And I’ll buy the coffee. Or, if you prefer to be interviewed from the safety of your home on the phone or via email, I will provide that option to you as the nation copes with the Coronavirus crisis. World Series Park creates GoFundMe account to raise funds for lights (Editor’s Note: This info is from a press release issued this week by World Series Park.) W orld Series Park in Saugus plans to have lights installed in the spring of 2021. This would complete the park by its being able to offer night games, never having to stop games because of darkness, and the flexibility of rescheduling rainouts. Most of the funds needed for this project will be available next year. A fundraising effort will be conducted during the next six months to raise additional funds. To assist in making this happen, World Series Park has set up a GoFundMe Charity account. People can make donations by going to the World Series Park website, worldseriespark.net, and clicking on GoFundMe. Donations can still be made by mail. Donations are tax deductible. So far, $10,000 has been A BRIGHT FUTURE: Light poles will be added to World Series Park to increase the use of the park and provide more opportunity to play baseball in Saugus. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) raised toward the $100,000 goal. Those who donate $100 or more will have their name included on the permanent World Series Park Lighting Fund plaque that will be installed on the third base dugout. Donations can be made in memory or in honor of others. “This being our sixteenth season, we have been able to save our pennies over the past fifteen years, as well as pledges for more funds, to now be able financially to afford lights,” said World Series Park Superintendent Bob Davis. “Through the generosity of a lot of people and businesses World Series Park has financed everything we have in creating this first-class baseball facility for the youth of Saugus. We want to complete the picture with lights, still being financed by the World Series Park Committee,” said Davis. “As a result of the increased cost of the lighting equipment, we need to raise additional funds. We hope that the new technology of GoFundMe Charity will allow people to make donations easier. We thank everyone for their past and hopefully future generous donations.” To donate to the World Series Park Lighting Fund by mail, checks should be made payable to World Series Park and sent to World Series Park, 8 Holden Ave., Saugus, MA 01906. Please indicate that the donation is for the Lighting Fund.
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 Page 15 “The Board breached this contract …” An interested buyer files lawsuit challenging selectmen’s refusal to vacate a foreclosure on Biscayne Avenue home that was set to be auctioned By Mark E. Vogler S electmen had planned to discuss scheduling an auction for the sale of a house at 4 Biscayne Ave. when they convened for a meeting Tuesday (Oct. 27) night. Or, the board could also reconsider the vote they took at their Oct. 13 meeting to deny a request by the former Saugus homeowner to vacate the foreclosure decree. But the discussion was quietly passed over after Board of Selectmen Chair Anthony Cogliano remarked that the matter was under litigation. The chair was referring to a lawsuit filed Oct. 19 which al leged that selec tmen “breached this contract” the town had with Middleton resident Charles Lightbody when they voted 4-1 to retain title to the house and refused to allow Richard Phelan to buy his house back. Lightbody based complaint on a deal he understood he had with the town after obtaining a certified check worth $67,977.77 payable to the Town of Saugus. Finance Director and Treasurer/Collector Wendy Hatch had recommended that the town vacate the foreclosure decree in return for close to $68,000 that was being held in escrow as paying for back taxes and other town costs. The compiled filed Revere attorney Jarrod M. Hochman cites an email written by Hatch before the vote was taken. It quotes her as saying “(A)s I have explained to Mr. Lightbody previously, once I receive the payment, I hold in for deposit until I attend the Board of Selectmen’s meeting where they are required to vote to transfer the title back to Mr. Phelan. Once they vote in the affirmative, I deposit the funds, notify our Attorney and they will file the necessary paperwork in the Land Court to vacate the foreclosure decree.” The email was written to Attorney Joseph V. Cattoggio, Jr., who Lightbody hired to represent him in the acquisition of the property, according to the court complaint. “The redemption period prescribed by statute, overlapped the current COVID-19 pandemic, executive orders of Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker and Acts of the Massachusetts legislature prohibiting action on the part of property owners to pursue judicial remedies and to otherwise stay actions and the time standards available to parties to actions involving title to real property,” the complaint alleged. When the board voted on Hatch’s recommendation to vacate the foreclosure decree, only Board Chair Cogliano voted to approve the recommendation. Hatch told Cattoggio and Lightbody “that she had never seen the board reject a redemption under the circumstances (when the entire amount of money owed to SauBOARD | SEE PAGE 20 State temporarily paused all indoor ice rinks for two weeks D ue to rising cases of COVID-19 connected to indoor ice hockey, on October 22 the state Department of Public Health issued a new public health order prohibiting indoor ice rinks and ice skating facilities from operating from October 23 to November 7. This order was in response to multiple COVID-19 clusters occurring at rinks throughout the state following games, practices and tournaments. There have been at least 30 clusters of COVID-19 associated with organized ice hockey activities involving residents from more than 60 municipalities in Massachusetts. Each of these includes two or more confirmed or probable COVID-19 cases, totaling 108 confirmed cases. This pause will allow for the development of stronger COVID-19 protocols to further protect players, families, coaches, arena staff and other participants, as well as communities surrounding hockey rinks. Current protocols include limitations on the number of people allowed in an arena, social distancing and other precautions. This order includes all indoor ice rinks and ice skating facilities in Massachusetts. These rinks and facilities may not operate during this temporary two-week pause. It is effective between 5 p.m. on October 23 and 12:01 a.m. on November 7. College and professional programs are exempt from this order. Neighboring states, including New Hampshire, have enacted similar temporary restrictions regarding indoor ice hockey. In Celebration of Democracy in Action, Showcase Cinemas Offers Free Election-Day Screenings of Fan-Favorite Film ‘The American President’ In All of Its U.S. Locations N ORWOOD–Showcase Cinemas, a world leader in the motion picture exhibition industry, announced today that it will offer free Election Day screenings of the classic film “The American President” in all of its opened U.S. locations in Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island and Ohio. The complimentary screenings of the iconic film will be offered at all theaters on Tuesday, November 3 at 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Tickets for “The American President” are available for advance reservation online, and food and beverage pre-order items can be reserved via showcasecinemas. com and Showcase’s app. “Released 25 years ago this November, ’The American President’ is a film that depicts America’s democracy and the office of the President under the guise of rom-com in a way that’s dramatic, truthful, celebratory and ultimately moving,” said Mark Malinowski, Vice President of Global Marketing for Showcase Cinemas. “While we know Election Day can be stressful, we invite Americans to head to the movie theater after casting their ballot, and enjoy a pleasant distraction with this muchloved, iconic film while waiting for the votes to be counted.” “The American President” is a 1995 American romantic comedy-drama directed by Rob Reiner and written by Aaron Sorkin. The film stars Michael Douglas, Annette Bening, Martin Sheen, Michael J. Fox and Richard Dreyfuss. In the film, President Andrew Shepherd (Douglas) is a widower who pursues a relationship with environmental lobbyist Sydney Ellen Wade (Bening) – who has just moved to Washington, D.C. – while at the same time attempting to win the passage of a crime control bill during a re-election year. Visitors to Showcase Cinemas locations to enjoy the free screening on Election Day can rest assured that the health and safety of patrons is the company’s first priority. Showcase has instituted the “Be Showcase Safe” program at all open theater locations, which includes employee health screenings before starting work and food and beverage manager ServSafeTM Food Safety Certification under the National Restaurant Association’s ServSafe food and safety training and certification program. Additional new procedures include installation of air-purifying systems for all US theaters; private screenings; reduced auditorium seating capacity; automatic seating social distancing; increased/enhanced auditorium cleaning between shows and in high-touch surface areas; employee and patron protective mask requirements; social distancing markers; and the availability of hand-sanitizing stations. For more information on Showcase Cinemas’ reopening programming and the Be Showcase Safe program please visit https://www. showcasecinemas.com/beshowcase-safe. Can’t make it on Election Day? Showcase Cinemas is also offering private screenings for family and friends. For only $99, customers can book their own auditorium for up to 20 guests and choose from a catalogue of our Bring Backs films to screen, including Halloween classics and films like “The American President”. For just $199, customers can book their own auditorium for new films such as “Tenet,” “The Empty Man,” “Honest Thief,” “The War With Grandpa” and “Unhinged.”
Page 16 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 Saugus Writer Wins Writing Contest W ith his short story, “The Tale of Trot and Dim Johnny,” Saugus writer Tom Sheehan, in his 93rd year, took fi rst prize in the 2020 Ageless Authors competition, Coping ELECTION | FROM PAGE 1 say controversy stemming from the Coronavirus outbreak which has prompted Gov. Charlie Baker and governors in other states to issue a wide range of shutdown orders for local businesses and municipal government offices and schools since March has created potential voter issues for President Donald Trump and other Republican leaders in the U.S. Senate and House. Trump captured 51 percent of the town vote in the general election on his way to being elected President four years ago. Democratic challenger Hilary Clinton drew 44 percent of the town’s vote in her unsuccessful bid for the White House. So, the presidency, a U.S. Senate race and a Congressional race are the main contests on this year’s ballot. Sen. Edward J. Markey, the incumbent Democrat, faces off against Republican challenger Kevin J. O’Connor, a Dover attorney. Markey beat U.S. Rep. Joseph P. Kennedy III by a 55 percent margin in the primary. In the Sixth Congressional District seat race, incumbent Rep. Seth Moulton of Salem faces Billerica Republican John Paul Moran. Moulton defeated GOALS | FROM PAGE 2 life, and I remember when it was thriving, and I am very excited to explore the fi rst concrete steps toward it being revitalized,” she said. Veteran Selectman Debra Panetta refl ected on the sadness of “all these businesses closing one after another.” “Over the years, it hasn’t been a priority and it should,” Panetta said. She added that “there are a lot of ideas out there to revitalize Cliftondale” and she thought it would be fruitful for the town to look upon some of the past studies. Crabtree noted that Cliftondale “is uniquely situated and diff erent from other communities.” The town would “have to attract a restaurant or two” as a key part of the revitalization, he added. “A real restaurant” that draws diners during the daytime and nighttime would attract ancillary businesses, according to the town With Crisis – Fiction, receiving a $500 award and a certifi cate of achievement from the large international writers’ group. More than 40 writers, editors, teachers and other prohis two challengers from Topsfi eld handily, 3,526 to 647 (Jamie M. Belsito) to 323 (Angus G. McQuilken). He won by 78 percent throughout his district. Meanwhile, Moran in November won his party’s spot on the ballot without opposition. In an unusual situation, especially for a presidential election year, all three statehouse races being considered by voters in Saugus’s 10 precincts are uncontested. State Rep. Donald Wong, R-Saugus, will win his sixth two-year term without opposition for his Ninth Essex House District seat. He represents voters of Precincts 1 and 2 and 4 and 9. Voters in Precincts 3 and 10 won’t have a choice either in the race to replace State Rep. RoseLee Vincent, D-Revere. Revere Councillor-at-Large Jessica Ann Giannino won her Democratic Primary and will succeed Vincent as she’s the only one on the ballot. State Sen. Brendan P. Crighton, D-Lynn, also faces no competition as he seeks another two-year term. Terrence W. Kennedy, of Lynnfield, the incumbent Democrat who seeks reelection in the Sixth District Governor’s Council race, faces no Republican opposition in Tuesday’s election. manager. “Nobody is going to open a sweater shop or clothing store in Cliftondale,” he said, especially not when people can order clothing and other products through Amazon.com. Revitalizing Cliftondale Square is just one of a number of major goals which selectmen have discussed over two brain-storming sessions in recent weeks. Board of Selectmen Chair Anthony Cogliano listed among his top goals the following: opening up the Town Hall, “getting our Planning Board meeting again,” cooperation with Wheelabrator Technology in making the trash-to-energy plant safer while bringing in more money to the town, putting a focus on improving Cliftondale Square, putting in a dog park and following through with plans for a third fi re station – this one on the west side of town. “Scott and I have a good fessionals evaluated hundreds of submissions for this contest, with Saugus’s Sheehan coming out on top. He is already loaded up for future contests. Saugus voters at a glance Democrat – 5,348 Republican – 2,169 Unenrolled or Independent – 12,474 Libertarian – 70 Green Party – 9 All other political designations – 221 Total – 20291 Voted so far Absentee Ballots – 302 mailed out, 228 returned (as of Oct. 27) Early voting in person – 2,793 (as of Oct. 27) Returned by mail – 5,790 (as of Oct. 26) Total voted – 8,811 Where you can vote Precincts 1, 3, 4 and 8 – the new Saugus Middle High School, 1 Pearce Memorial Dr. Precincts 2 and 6 – Veterans Memorial Elementary School, 39 Hurd Ave. Precinct 5 – Lynnhurst Elementary School, 120 Elm St. Precinct 7 – Knights of Columbus, 59 Appleton St. Precinct 9 – Oaklandvale Elementary School, 266 Main St. Precinct 10 – Italian American Club, 1 Beachview Ave. When you can vote: Tuesday (Nov. 3), 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. working relationship,” Cogliano stressed. Riley – who pushed for the goals and objectives session early in the year – cited getting an annual update of the town’s capital improvement plan, evaluation of the town manager and quarterly meetings with the manager “to discuss citizen input, complaints and concerns that each of us receive” as some her top priorities. Selectman Michael Serino said he wants to do a review of town playgrounds, finish improvements of Lincoln Avenue sidewalks, install more speed limit signs, provide an emergency generator for the Saugus Senior Center (“especially important for the winter months”) and begin neighborhood meetings to help determine the future use of school buildings that the School Department turns back to the GOALS | SEE PAGE 22 Sa Sa a Sa BY JIM MILLER How to Recognize and Stop Elder Abuse in the COVID Era Dear Savvy Senior, Can you write a column on how to recognize elder abuse and what to do if you suspect it? Concerned Relative Dear Concerned, Elder abuse is a big problem in the United States that has escalated during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the National Council on Aging, as many as 5 million seniors are victims of abuse each year, but studies suggest this crime is signifi cantly under-reported. Only 1-in-14 cases of elder abuse ever get reported to the authorities because victims are usually too afraid, too embarrassed, too helpless or too trusting to call for help. The term “elder abuse” is defi ned as intentional or negligent acts by a caregiver or trusted individual that causes or can cause harm to a vulnerable senior. Elder abuse also comes in many diff erent forms: emotional, psychological, physical or sexual abuse, abandonment, neglect and self-neglect and fi - nancial exploitation. Those most vulnerable are seniors that are ill, frail, disabled, socially isolated or mentally impaired due to dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. It’s also important to know that while elder abuse does happen in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities, the vast majority of incidents take place at home where the senior lives. And tragically, the abusers are most often their own family members (usually the victim’s adult child or spouse) or caregiver. How to Recognize Abuse So, how can you tell if an elderly relative or friend is being abused, and what can you do to help? A change in general behavior is a universal warning sign that a problem exists. If you notice that your relative or friend has become very depressed, withdrawn or gets upset or agitated easily, you need to start asking questions. Here are some additional warning signs on the diff erent types of elder abuse that can help you spot a possible problem. Physical or sexual abuse: Suspicious bruises or other injuries that can’t be explained. Sudden changes in behavior (upset, withdrawn, fearful). Broken eyeglasses. Caregiver’s refusal to allow visitors to see an elder alone. Neglect or self-neglect: Weight loss, poor hygiene, unattended medical needs, and unsanitary, unsafe living conditions. Emotional or psychological abuse: The senior is extremely upset, agitated, withdrawn, unresponsive, fearful or depressed, or demonstrates some other unusual behavior. Financial exploitation: Missing money or valuables. Unexplained withdrawals from bank accounts, or transfers between accounts. Unauthorized use of credit, debit or ATM card. Unpaid bills despite available funds. Checks written as a loan or gift. Abrupt changes in a will or other documents. For more tips on how to recognize the warning signs of abuse during the pandemic, see the National Center on Elder Abuse website at NCEA.acl.gov/Resources/COVID-19.aspx. What to Do The best ways to help stop elder abuse is to be in touch and keep the lines of communication open. If you suspect any type of abuse or neglect in your relative’s or friend’s home, report it to your local protective services agency. Adult Protective Services is the government agency responsible for investigating elder abuse cases and providing help and guidance. Call the Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116 to get the agency contact number in your area or visit NCEA.acl. gov/Resources/State.aspx. The agency will ask what you observed, who was involved, and who they can contact to learn more. You don’t need to prove that abuse is occurring; it is up to the professional. Or, to report suspected abuse in a nursing home or assisted living facility, call the local Long-Term Care Ombudsman – see LTCombudsman.org for contact information. If, however, you feel the person is in immediate danger, call 911 or the local police for immediate help. 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. y Senin y Senior nioreniior Sen or
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 Page 17 LISTEN TO BOB’S SHOW: Beacon Hill Roll Call’s publisher, Bob Katzen, hosts “The Bob Katzen Baby Boomer and Gen X Fun and Nostalgia Show” every Sunday night from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Jump into Bob’s DeLorean time machine and tune in for a trip back to the simpler and happier days of the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s. Recent guests include Tony Dow who played Wally on “Leave it to Beaver.” There are many ways you can listen to the show from anywhere in the world: If you have a smart speaker, simply say, “Play WMEX on RADIO.COM” Download the free RADIO. COM app on your phone or tablet Listen online at: www.radio.com/1510wmex/listen Tune into 1510 AM if you still have an AM radio THE HOUSE AND SENATE: There were no roll calls in the House or Senate last week. FIVE CONFERENCE COMMITTEES HAVE YET TO COME UP WITH COMPROMISE LEGISLATION – This week Beacon Hill Roll Call reports on five conference committees that have been charged by the Legislature to hammer out compromise versions of different versions of five major bills approved by the House and Senate. The committees were appointed In July and August by House Speaker Bob DeLeo (D-Winthrop) and Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland) who each appoint three members to each conference committee—two Democrats and one Republican. The five bills deal with climate change, economic development, transportation, policing and health care. According to House and Senate rules, all meetings of conference committees must be open to the public, unless a majority of the committee votes to close the meetings. All five conference committees have voted to bar the public and the media from their meetings. The 26 members of the conference committees include: Reps. Thomas Golden (D-Lowell), Patricia Haddad (D-Somerset); Brad Jones (R-North Reading); Ann-Margaret Ferrante (D-Gloucester); Donald Wong (R-Saugus); Claire Cronin (D-Easton), Carlos Gonzalez (D-Springfield), Tim Whelan (R-Brewster), William Straus (D-Mattapoisett), Mark Cusack (D-Braintree), Norman Orrall (R-Lakeville), Ron Mariano (D-Quincy), John Mahoney (D-Worcester) and Randy Hunt (R-Sandwich). Sens. Michael Barrett (D-Lexington), Cindy Creem (D-Newton), Patrick O’Connor (R-Weymouth), Eric Lesser (D-Longmeadow), Michael Rodrigues (D-Westport), Will Brownsberger (D-Belmont), Sonia Chang-Diaz (D-Boston), Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester), Joseph Boncore (D-Winthrop), Dean Tran (R-Fitchburg), Cindy Friedman (DArlington) and Julian Cyr (D-Truro). Despite repeated attempts by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking all 26 legislators on the five committees if they would provide us with a list of how many meetings the committee has held and the length of each meeting, only one responded—Sen. Dean Tran (R-Fitchburg), a member of two of the conference committees. On the conference committee on a bill sponsors say will increase access to health care, protect patients and enhance quality care: “I am anxiously awaiting for the chairs of the Health Care Financing conference committee to convene a meeting of the members for this important legislation,” said Tran. “I’m looking forward to discussing the similarities and differences of the bills and hopefully assist with the passage of the legislation.” On the conference committee on a bill sponsors say will allow the state to borrow an estimated $16.9 to $18 billion to spend on transportation projects and infrastructure: “I and members of the Transportation Conference Committee members met in July and the meeting ended in executive session,” said Tran. “I very much look forward to continuing the conversation in passing a compromise bill to address the infrastructure needs of our transportation system.” Beacon Hill Roll Call also made repeated attempts asking each member of the conference committees for information on how the talks were going, what are the major differences between the House and Senate version of the bills, why a compromise hasn’t yet been reached and whether they think there will be one before the end of the 2020 session. Only three legislators responded and none of those answered the questions. The others did not respond. “[Rep. Cronin] cannot comment on the bills or the negotiations while the bills are in conference committee,” said Cronin’s staff director Stephanie Leone. “The committee is working diligently.” “No comment,” said Sen. Brownsberger (D-Belmont). “We can’t talk about that,” said Rep. Golden (D-Lowell). Here are the details about the five committees and the issues: CLIMATE BILL (H 4933 and S 2500)–IN CONFERENCE COMMITTEE SINCE AUGUST 6, 2020 HOUSE CONFEREES: Co-chair Thomas Golden (D-Lowell), Patricia Haddad (D-Somerset) and Brad Jones (R-North Reading). SENATE CONFEREES: Co-chair Michael Barrett (D-Lexington), Cindy Creem (D-Newton) and Patr ick O’Connor (R-Weymouth). House 142-17, Senate 36-2, approved different versions of a climate change bill. Both bills include a key section that makes the state’s greenhouse gas emissions reduction goal net zero by 2050. “The science is clear: to avoid the devastation of climate change, greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced to net zero by 2050,” said Rep. Joan Meschino (D-Hull) following passage of the House version of the bill on July 31. “This goal will only be met by a comprehensive planning process, which locks in key milestones now to get us there in 30 years.” Some think the bill goes too far. “Both bills are equally as bad, it’s only a question to what degree of bad are they,” Paul Craney, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance told Beacon Hill Roll Call last week. “They both will result in negligible environmental benefit and very high costs. At the end of the day, this debate is not about improving the environment, but instead about imposing a carbon tax, which is a new way of taxing Massachusetts residents on a wide variety of everyday activities.” “If lawmakers wanted to get serious about improving the environment, they would begin discussions on nuclear energy, cleaning water sources including the heavily polluted Merrimac River, and banning the use of clear-cutting forests for solar fields,” Craney concluded. (A “Yes” vote is for the bill. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. RoseLee Vincent Yes Rep. Donald Wong Yes Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes ECONOMY (H 4887 and S 2874)–IN CONFERENCE COMMITTEE SINCE JULY 30, 2020 HOUSE CONFEREES: Cochair Aaron Michlewitz (D-Boston), Ann-Margaret Ferrante (D-Gloucester) and Donald Wong (R-Saugus). SENATE CONFEREES: Cochair Eric Lesser (D-Longmeadow), Michael Rodrigues (D-Westport) and Patrick O’Connor (R-Weymouth). House 156-3, Senate 400, approved different versions of an economic development package. One of the major differences is that only Beacon Hill Roll Call By Bob Katzen the House version legalizes sports betting. The packages include $20 million for financial and capital assistance grants to restaurants impacted by the 2019 novel coronavirus; $10 million for grants to promote marketing and advertising for in-state cultural and tourist activities during the reopening process; $40 million to redevelop blighted buildings; $50 million for local economic development projects; $10 million for climate-resilient affordable housing developments; and $15 million for community college high-demand workforce grants. (A “Yes” vote is for the package. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. RoseLee Vincent Yes Rep. Donald Wong Yes Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes POLICING (H 4866 and S 2820) IN CONFERENCE COMMITTEE SINCE JULY 27, 2020 HOUSE CONFEREES: Co - chair Claire Cronin (D-Easton), Carlos Gonzalez (D-Springfield) and Tim Whelan (R-Brewster). SENATE CONFEREES: Cochair Will Brownsberger (D-Belmont), Sonia Chang-Diaz (D-Boston) and Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester). House 93-66, Senate 307, approved different versions of a bill making major changes in the state’s policing system. In July, the newly created nonpartisan Center for State Policy Analysis at Tufts University released a report outlining the framework for understanding key differences between the two bills and highlighting the choices and trade-offs involved in achieving common ground. A copy of the analysis can be found at: https://tischcollege.tufts. edu/sites/default/files/cSPA_ police_reform.pdf (A “Yes” vote is for the bill. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. RoseLee Vincent Yes Rep. Donald Wong No Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes TRANSPORTATION (H 4547 and S 2813) IN CONFERENCE COMMITTEE SINCE JULY 27, 2020 HOUSE CONFEREES: Cochair William Straus (D-Mattapoisett), Mark Cusack (D-Braintree) and Norman Orrall (R-Lakeville). SENATE CONFEREES: Cochair Joseph Boncore (D-Winthrop), Michael Rodrigues (D-Westport) and Dean Tran (R-Fitchburg). House 150-1, Senate 36-4, approved different versions of an estimated $16.9 to $18 billion package authorizing spending on transportation projects and infrastructure. The package is a bond bill under which the funding would be borrowed by the state through the sale of bonds. The Senate version of the bill includes a controversial section that allows cities and towns and regions to raise local taxes to fund transportation projects outside of Proposition 2½, which limits property tax increases in cities and towns. The section is not in the House bill. “It’s clear that more and better public transit is needed across the state, and it is important to give local communities and regions the ability to raise funds when they identify particular needs,” said Sen. Cindy Creem (D-Newton) when the bill was approved on March 5. “Improving access to business districts that are not currently accessible by public transit is good for workers, small businesses and the overall economy. We are giving communities this option if the voters choose to use it.” “Auda c iou s end -r un s around Proposition 2½ do not belong in a bond bill,” Chip Ford, executive director of Citizens for Limited Taxation told Beacon Hill Roll Call last week. “If CLT’s property tax limitation, which celebrates its 40th anniversary in less than two weeks, is to be assaulted it should be done openly, in the light of day, not buried in an unrelated must-pass bill—and certainly not by stealth in a transportation bond bill.” The House version includes an estimated $522 million to $600 million tax hike to fund improvements BEACON | SEE PAGE 18
Page 18 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 BEACON | FROM PAGE 17 to the state’s transportation system. None of the hikes are included in the Senate version. Hikes include a 5 cents-per-gallon increase in the motor vehicle gas excise tax; a 9 cents-per-gallon increase in the diesel fuel tax; an increase in the aviation fuel tax from 5 percent of the average price per gallon to 7.5 percent of the average price per gallon; elimination of the sales tax exemption on vehicle purchases for traditional rental car companies; replacing the current flat $456 minimum corporate excise tax with a ninetiered sliding scale ranging from $456 if the corporation’s total sales are less than $1 million to $150,000 if the corporation’s sales total $1 billion; and increasing the 20 cents-per-trip flat fee to $1.20 for each non-shared Uber and Lyft ride and $2.20 for every luxury ride. The bill includes language aimed at preventing Uber and Lyft from passing those hikes directly onto riders. Both packages include earmarks for hundreds of millions of dollars for hundreds of projects in legislators’ districts across the state—many of which will never be funded. The Baker administration is required to adhere to the state’s annual bond borrowing cap and ultimately decides which projects are affordable and actually get funded. Sometimes a legislator will immediately tout the inclusion of local projects in these types of bond bills, especially in an election year to show he or she “brought home the bacon.” But be warned that none of the projects in this package have yet been funded and most will end up never being funded because of the borrowing cap and the power of the governor’s office to pick which projects actually get the green light. (A “Yes” vote is for the bill. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. RoseLee Vincent Yes Rep. Donald Wong Yes Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes HEALTH CARE (H 4916 and S 2769) IN CONFERENCE COMMITTEE SINCE JULY 31, 2020 HOUSE CONFEREES: Co - chair Ron Mariano (D-Quincy), John Mahoney (D-Worcester) and Randy Hunt (R-Sandwich). SENATE CONFEREES: Cochair Cindy Friedman (D- Arlington), Julian Cyr (D-Truro) and Dean Tran (R-Fitchburg). House 158-0, Senate 38-0, approved different versions of a bill that sponsors say will increase access to health care, protect patients and enhance quality care. The measure requires insurance carriers, including MassHealth, to cover telehealth services in any case where the same in-person service would be covered and requires reimbursement rates to match in-person services over the next two years. It also eliminates “surprise billing,” the much-criticized practice of charging unsuspecting patients who received health care services outside of their insurance plan’s network for costs that insurers refuse to pay. Other provisions would allow registered nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists and psychiatric nurse mental health specialists who meet specific education and training standards to practice independently; recognize pharmacists as health care providers, enabling them to integrate more fully into coordinated care teams; and create a new professional license for “dental therapists,” who will be authorized to provide dental hygiene and other oral health services. Supporters note that this will help expand access to dental care in underserved communities. (A “Yes” vote is for the bill.) Rep. RoseLee Vincent Yes Rep. Donald Wong Yes 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 filed. They note that the infrequency and brief length of sessions are misguided and lead to irresponsible late-night sessions and a mad rush to act on dozens of bills in the days immediately preceding the end of an annual session. During the week of October 19-23, the House met for a total of 29 minutes while the Senate met for a total of 34 minutes. Mon. Oct. 19 House 11:00 a.m. to 11:22 a.m. Senate 11:08 a.m. to 11:19 a.m. No Senate session No Senate session Tues. Oct. 20 No House session Wed. Oct. 21 No House session Thurs. Oct. 22 House 11:03 a.m. to 11:10 a.m. Senate 11:08 a.m. to 11:31 a.m. No Senate session Fri. Oct. 23 No House session Bob Katzen welcomes feedback at bob@beaconhillrollcall.com
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 Page 19 OFFICER | FROM PAGE 5 trol Officer for two years. “I am happy to support Darren’s appointment as the Animal Control Officer, he will do a great job for the Town as he has already been doing in that position,” Selectman Jeff Cicolini said. McCullough holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Bridgewater State University. He also studied Psychology and Business at Springfield College. The Animal Control Officer serves as a public safety officer for the Town of Saugus and responds to all requests for assistance with animals ranging from domestic, wild or dangerous, as well as animals in distress. The Animal Control Officer is also tasked with enforcing state and local laws and ordinances related to the keeping of animals, management of wildlife and animal abuse or neglect. McCullough will serve under the direction of the Saugus Police Chief. McCullough has been a staple in the community, contributing to the youths of Saugus over the years through volunteering as a coach for Saugus High School Wrestling, Saugus Little League and Saugus Babe Ruth to name a few, according to Crabtree. 1. On Oct. 30, 1958, what First Lady became the first person to decorate the White House for Halloween? 2. In what year did Congress mandate the first Tuesday in November as Election Day: 1777, 1845 or 1922? 3. What packaged, weather-durable candy was given to World War II soldiers? 4. On Oct. 31, 1941, work on what U.S. monument in the Black Hills ended? 5. Every continent has spiders except what one? 6. What sports organization has the Smackdown Your Vote campaign? 7. On Nov. 1. 1815, international “Ice King” Frederic Tudor set sail from Boston for Havana with a cargo of ice; from what local town did he get his first ice to ship (in 1806)? 8. The Persian cat originated in what country? 9. What animated show starts with the “Graveyard Theme” and ends with the “Charlie Brown Theme”? 10. The witch in “The Wizard of Oz” is called what? 11. On Nov. 2, 1988, the internet-distributed “Morris” computer worm launched from what well-known Massachusetts university? 12. Ireland and Scotland have traditional Halloween “guising,” which is what? 13. Kabocha squash is native to what country? 14. On Nov. 3, 1906, what was authorized as the international distress signal by the International Wireless Telegraph Convention? 15. What packaged candy has a thin strip of paper called a plume? 16. What comes in Baby Boo, Casper and White Ghost varieties? 17. On Nov. 4, 1946, the UNESCO Constitution became effective; what does UNESCO stand for? 18. What silent film actress was nicknamed “The Vamp”? 19. What is a group of witches called? 20. November 5 is National Redhead Day; what spice is sometimes used to describe red hair? ANSWERS 1. Mamie Eisenhower 2. 1845 3. Tootsie Rolls 4. Mount Rushmore 5. Antarctica 6. World Wr estling Entertainment, Inc. (WWE) 7. Saugus 8. Iran 9. “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” 10. The Wicked Witch of the West 11. MIT 12. Children going doorto-door in disguise and performing for a treat 13. Japan 14. SOS 15. Hershey’s Kisses 16. White pumpkins 17. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization 18. Theda Bara 19. Coven 20. Ginger
Page 20 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 BOARD | FROM PAGE 15 gus was paid prior to the vote on redemption,” the complaint alleged. The lawsuit seeks a court order for the town “to comply with the process of conveying good and marketable title and all reasonable requirements of the plaintiff ’s lender and transfer or deed the premises to the plaintiff s.” Lightbody also seeks reimbursement of all costs related to fi ling the complaint, including attorney fees. At its Oct. 13 meeting when the vote was taken, Selectman Jeff rey Cicolini was the most outspoken in his opposition to vacating the foreclosure. “If we knew this individual was moving back to his family home, I’d make the motion (to vacate),” Selectman Jeff rey Cicolini said of Richard Phelan’s interest in getting his house at 4 Biscayne Ave. back. But Cicolini said Phelan’s interest in selling the house instead of living it convinced him to oppose the request. “The town has been on the hook for seven years,” said Cicolini, who along with a majority of the board voted 4 to 1 against it.” WASTE REMOVAL & BUILDING MAINTENANCE • Landscaping, Lawn Care, Mulching • Yard Waste & Rubbish Removal • Interior & Exterior Demolition (Old Decks, Fences, Pools, Sheds, etc.) • Appliance and Metal Pick-up • Construction and Estate Cleanouts • Pick-up Truck Load of Trash starting at $169 • Carpentry LICENSED & INSURED Call for FREE ESTIMATES! Office: (781) 233-2244 Mold & Waterproofing EXPERTS • Sump Pumps • Walls & Floor Cracks • ALL WORK GUARANTEED - Licensed Contractor - JPG CONSTRUCTION Cell phone 781-632-7503 508-292-9134 Frank Berardino MA License 31811 • 24 - Hour Service • Emergency Repairs BERARDINO Plumbing & Heating Residential & Commercial Service Gas Fitting • Drain Service 617.699.9383 Senior Citizen Discount We follow Social Distancing Guidelines! Advocate Call now! 781-233-4446 CLASSIFIEDS
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 Page 21 OBITUARIES Raymond “Ray” Costigan ews. Ray was a late veteran of the Korean War, a proud graduate of Northeastern where he earned his Bachelors and Master degrees in electrical engineering. He also spent his entire professional career as a Principal Engineer at Raytheon’s Tactical Missiles Department in Bedford and Tewksbury. In lieu of flowers, gifts in memory of Raymond Costigan may be made in support of the Mass General Hospital. Checks can be mailed to Massachusetts General Hospital c/o Development Office, Attn: Tyrone Latin, 125 Nashua Street, Suite 540, Boston, MA 02114. Donors should make checks payable to “MGH Leukemia Program” and include the name of the deceased on the memo line. * Crack Repairing * Pot Hole Filling * Striping Handicapped Spaces * Free Estimates Tom’s Seal Coating Call Gary: 978-210-4012 86 years of age, of Saugus, formerly of East Boston, passed away on October 21, 2020. Cherished son of the late Thomas and Margaret (Sevier) Costigan. Beloved husband of Geraldine L. (Catone) Costigan. Loving father of Raymond A. Costigan and his wife Kellie of Salem, NH, Sandra Costigan and her wife Eileen Pailes of San Diego, and David Costigan and his wife Christine of Lynnfield. Caring brother of Edward Costigan and his wife Netta, the late Thomas Costigan and his surviving spouse Gerry, and George Costigan and his surviving spouse Mary. Adored grandfather of Christopher, Janelle, Jack, Cole, and Cameron. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephSpace for Lease 3 Large Rooms, each with Large Walk-in Storage Area. or Aerobics Studio. Located at Route 1 South at Walnut Street. Rollerworld Plaza, Route 1 South, 425 Broadway, Saugus. Call Michelle at: 781-233-9507
Page 22 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 CORONAVIRUS | FROM PAGE 9 DO exist in Saugus. Due to the fact that they are undetected, some of these infected individuals may not be properly isolated or quarantined, which is why Governor [Baker’s] direcGOALS | FROM PAGE 16 town. He said he also wants to get a list of COVID-related costs to the town, with a breakdown on how much the town will receive in reimbursements and how much it will wind up paying. Panetta noted continued cooperation with Crabtree on priority projects should be a mutual goal of the board. tive is to wear a cloth face cover over their face when around others, practice social distancing, avoid gatherings, and to follow the CDC and MDPH guidance. “Again, this is a reminder that the CDC and MDPH have “We can’t succeed without the town manager,” she said. “Obviously, the top priority is dealing safely with the COVID and moving forward,” Panetta said. “Besides the COVID, we really need to put our focus on the Master Plan … it encompasses everything we’re talking about,” she said. Panetta also mentioned that the board needs to disprovided guidance to everyone regarding preventing the spread of the COVID-19 virus in the Commonwealth. “Please follow CDC and MDPH guidance to prevent COVID-19 illness by: Clean your hands often for cuss an extension of Crabtree’s contract, and at least advise him by next August, several months prior to the town elections. But Cicolini said he would like to see the board begin preliminary talks with the town manager much sooner – by the end of the year. “It’s not going to be one meeting. It’s going to be several,” Cicolini said. “Maybe consider an execat least: 20 seconds Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth Stay at least 6 feet between yourself and others Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others utive session at one of our meetings in November,” he said. Cicolini noted that although a dog park is among his top priorities, he considers it “something that is truly lacking.” A major priority would be meeting with the town manager on updating fi scal policies with an eye toward maintaining the current bond rat“Please stay healthy and please call us with any needs. We are [here] for you. “For more information, contact the Saugus Health Department at (781) 231-4117 and/or the Town Manager’s offi ce at 781-231-4111.” ing and fi scal stability. Cicolini said he also hopes the board would work with the town in addressing other issues – like older municipal buildings in town that need improvements – projects that the town will be tackling after it gets past the pandemic. “We’re going to get back to a point where we’re not going to be wearing masks,” Cicolini said. 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 Ke, Alisha BUYER2 Phon, Niki Hickman, Ian B Kammerer, Emily A Tountas, Stavroula Polignone, Maria A Henriques, Rodrigo Wells, Darold D Henriques, Barbara SELLER1 Cavallaro, Dominic J Hickman, Elizabeth G Doherty, Joseph Wells, Darold D Treger, Daniel S Bouras, Katina SELLER2 Doherty, Ann ADDRESS 51 Harrison Ave 295 Walnut St 65 Riverbank Rd 22 Biscayne Ave 90 Auburn St 25 Castle Rock Rd CITY Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus DATE 09.10.2020 09.10.2020 08.10.2020 08.10.2020 07.10.2020 07.10.2020 PRICE $810 000,00 $375 000,00 $395 000,00 $110 000,00 $347 500,00 $385 000,00
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 Page 23 Follow Us On: COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY SALES & RENTALS Sandy Juliano Broker/President A chill is in the air but Everett house prices are still Hot. Call today to learn the value of your home! NEW LISTING BY SANDY WE KNOW EVERETT!! Call TODAY to sell or buy with the best! NEW LISTING BY NORMA NEW LISTING BY SANDY UNDER AGREEMENT! 67 CLARENCE ST., EVERETT 6 ROOM SINGLE WITH FINISHED BASEMENT NEW PRICE! $549,900 LISTED BY SANDY SOLD BY NORMA SINGLE FAMILY 39 LEXINGTON ST., EVERETT $725,000 NEW LISTING BY NORMA UNDER AGREEMENT! TWO FAMILY 45-47 SYCAMORE ST., EVERETT $724,900 NEW LISTING BY MARIA OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY UNDER AGREEMENT! 834 BROADWAY, EVERETT $550,000 RENTALS REVERE 2 BEDROOM APARTMENT AVAILABLE NOW $2,000/MONTH WITH HEAT EVERETT 3 BEDROOM APARTMENT WITH OFFICE, NO UTILITIES, NO PARKING - NEW PRICE $2,000/MO. TO SEE EITHER OF THESE UNITS PLEASE TEXT/CALL MARIA AT 781-808-6877 UNDER AGREEMENT! 17 EVELYN RD., EVERETT $519,900 UNDER AGREEMENT! Mixed use building, Malden 3 commercial and one residential unit $1,200,000 NOV. 1, 2020 12:00-1:30 32 WESTOVER ST., EVERETT NEW PRICE! $449,900 LISTED BY NORMA OCT. 31, 2020 12:00-1:30 25 HAWKES ST., SAUGUS NEW PRICE! $439,900 LISTED BY NORMA Open Daily From 10:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. 433 Broadway, Suite B, Everett, MA 02149 Open Daily From 10:0 Joe DiNuzzo - Broker Associate :0 00 AM 5:00 PM www.jrs-properties.com Follow Us On: 617.544.6274 Norma Capuano Parziale - Agent Denise Matarazz - Agent Maria Scrima - Agent Rosemarie Ciampi - Agent Michael Matarazzo -Agent Mark Sachetta - Agent
Page 24 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2020 WONDERING WHAT YOUR HOME IS WORTH? CALL FOR YOUR FREE MARKET ANALYSIS! LITTLEFIELD REAL ESTATE SAUGUS ~ Rehabbed colonial. New windows, siding, new kitchen with quartz counters, stainless appliances, new cabinets. New hardwood flooring throughout house. New heat. Central AC. New maintenance free deck..........$570,000 WAKEFIELD CONDO ~ 3 rooms, 1 bed, 1 bath, newly renovated, SS appliances, granite, high ceilings, deeds parking, pets allowed ....... $269,900 SAUGUS ~ Rehabbed colonial, 4-5 bedroom, 2 full baths, gas heat, central AC, new siding, new roof, hardwood flooring, fresh paint, new kitchen with SS appliances quartz counters ...............$559,900 38 Main Street, Saugus MA WWW.LITTLEFIELDRE.COM 781-233-1401 WAKEFIELD ~ New construction duplex. 3 bed, 2.5 baths, 2400 sq feet, garage under, central AC, Gas heat, fireplace living room............. Call Keith Littlefield for pricing REVERE BEACH ~ Condo, 2 beds, 2 baths, quartz counters, SS appliances, central AC, beautiful ocean views, indoor pool, gym, sauna...... $394,900 SAUGUS ~ Birch Pond Estates. 3 bed, 3 bath split, Vaulted ceilings, finished walkout lower level, gas heat, central AC, gas fireplace, 2 car garage, sprinkler system, manicured grounds.................... $729,000 SAUGUS ~ 3 bed, 1.5 bath colonial. Open concept 1st floor, 2 car garage, newer gas heat, roof and HW heater, prof landscaping....$439,900 SAUGUS ~ Oversized split entry, stainless appliances, granite counters, great location, large 3 season sun room. in-law apartment... $644,900 Call Rhonda Combe For all your real estate needs!! 781-706-0842 MELROSE ~ Single family, 4 bed, 2 full bath, SS appliances, new gas heat, quartz counters, Central AC, Garage under...................$650,000 LAND FOR SALE SAUGUS Call Rhonda Combe at 781-706-0842 for details!! Call Eric Rosen for all your real estate needs. 781-223-0289 SOLD SOLD UNDER CONTRACT
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