THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, NOVEmbER 13, 2026 Page 11 Children’s author Lauren Tarshis visits Belmonte STEAM Academy Saugus Public Library and Saugus Public Schools partner to bring best-selling “i Survived” author to local students (Editor’s Note: This story is based on a press release issued by the Saugus Public Library.) S tudents at Belmonte STEAM Academy had the exciting opportunity to meet award-winning children’s author Lauren Tarshis in person on Nov. 5, thanks to a partnership between the Saugus Public Library and Saugus Public Schools. Tarshis is the author of the bestselling I Survived series, which brings pivotal moments in history to life through the experiences of young characters. Originally published as historical fiction novels, the popular series has since expanded into graphic novel editions, introducing these gripping stories to an even wider audience of young readers. The Saugus Public Library secured grant funding for the event, with the generous support from the Foundation for the Saugus Public Library. “The Foundation for the Saugus Public Library is pleased to support this wonderful opportunity for Belmonte STEAM Academy students,” said Joseph Scurio, Vice President of the Foundation for the Saugus Public Library. “Lauren Tarshis is a favorite among young readers, and having her visit Saugus in person will be an incredible experience for the students. We hope it inspires even more children to discover the joy of reading,” Scurio said. To help students and teachers prepare for the visit, the New Friends of the Saugus Public Library generously donated copies of Tarshis’s books to the Belmonte school library. The visit continues a successful author series that has brought celebrated children’s authors to Saugus students, including John Patrick Green, creator of the InvestiGators series; Jerry Pallotta, author of the Who Would Win? series; and Jarrett Krosoczka, creator of the Lunch Lady series. Previous virtual visits have also featured Eric Litwin, creator of Pete the Cat. to discover the stories waiting for them in books.” Melton said. Through these programs, the MAKING READING FUN: Left to right: Gemma Bruce, Children’s Librarian at the Saugus Public Library; Linda Ross, Board Member for the Foundation for the Saugus Public Library and Volunteer at the Belmonte STEAM Academy Library; Kristen Tozza, President of the Foundation for the Saugus Public Library; Lauren Tarshis, author of the I Survived Series; Krisin Barclay, Elementary Literacy Coach at Saugus Public Schools; and Amy Melton, Head of Children’s Services, gather during the author’s recent visit. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) “We are delighted to welcome Lauren Tarshis to Saugus and give Saugus students the opportunity to meet an author whose books have inspired so many young readers,” said Amy Melton, Head of Children’s Services at the Saugus Public Library. “The I Survived series brings history to life through exciting, relatable stories that encourage curiosity, courage, and a deeper understanding of the past. We hope this visit will spark students’ imaginations, strengthen their love of reading, and inspire them Saugus Public Library demonstrates that its role extends well beyond providing access to books. The library serves as a community partner, connecting residents with educational resources, cultural experiences and opportunities that enrich learning at every age. The library is incredibly grateful for its wonderful partnership with the Saugus Public Schools, and especially for the dedication and collaboration of Kristin Barclay, Elementary Literacy Coach, who serves as a valued liaison in coordinating outreach between the schools and the library. Kristin is a passionate advocate for literacy and an enthusiastic partner in creating meaningful opportunities for students. Through this collaboration, we are able to enrich students’ learning experiences, foster a love of reading, and strengthen literacy throughout the entire community. Birthdays are special at the Senior Center (Editor’s Note: Saugus Senior Center Director Laurie Davis submitted the following article.) OCTOBER BIRTHDAYS: The Saugus Senior Center recognized 22 residents who celebrated their birthdays collectively at the Senior Center last month. Pictured above are all the October birthday celebrants. From left to right: Front row: Joyce Costa, Barbara Gillis, Judy Sullivan, Patty Connors, Mae Montano, Inez Firth, Shirley Bogdan, Linda Ingeneri, Aline Elis, Arthur Montgomery, Cheryl Dellacroce and Lynette Terrazzano; second row: Rafael Bonano, Al Porcaro, Janice Crager, Richard Salerno, Rita Wright, Fran Rogers, Diane Tiro, Tom Lowe, Leo Colon and Neil Osgood. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) T he Saugus Senior Center held its monthly birthday celebration on Friday, October 23, honoring 22 October birthday celebrants! It was a wonderful afternoon filled with laughter, birthday cake, ice cream and plenty of smiles. This month’s celebration was generously sponsored by Shirley Bogdan in loving memory of her late husband, Peter Bogdan. LEGAL NOTICE Board of Selectmen Public Hearing Notice is hereby given that the Saugus Board of Selectmen will conduct a Public Hearing for the purpose of determining the percentage of local tax levy FY 2027 to be borne by each class of taxable property within the Town of Saugus, MA. This Public Hearing will be held in the Saugus Town Hall Auditorium, second floor, 298 Central Street, Saugus, MA on November 17, 2026 at 7:00 PM. Debra Panetta, Chair Meredith K. Casagrande, Clerk November 06, 13, 2026
12 Publizr Home