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SAUGUS D Your Local News, Sports & Information Online! Scan & Subscribe Here! OCAT CAT CHRISTMAS TREE TIME AT THE MEG F A “WICKED” FAVORITE: Last Sunday (Nov. 16) at the opening weekend of the 15th Annual MEG Foundation Festival of Trees, Belmonte STEAM Academy fourth-grader Mila Cogliano, 9, wanted to win this Wicked tree since she is on a cheering team called Wicked. Please look inside for more coverage of the festival, which continues this weekend. (Saugus Advocate photo by Tara Vocino) TE E Vol. 27, No.47 -FREE- www.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday 781-233-4446 Friday, November 21, 2025 Town Election 2025 A recount is scheduled for tomorrow morning to determine the fi fth-place fi nisher in the Town Meeting Precinct 5 race By Mark E. Vogler or most of the candidates who ran for public office in the Nov. 4 Town Election, the results posted the next day by the Town Clerk’s Offi ce are offi cial. Those offi ce holders who were elected already have begun serving their two-year terms in Saugus local government. But veteran Town Meeting Member Ronald M. Wallace, who nosed out former Town Meeting Member Karli McConaghy Brazis by just two votes for the fi fth and fi nal Town Meeting seat in Precinct 5, won’t know until tomorrow whether he will get to serve a sixth consecutive term on the 50-member body – or watch Brazis return to offi ce. “I received an email from the Town Clerk saying a recount for Precinct 5 is scheduled for next Saturday (Nov. 22) 8:30 am at Town Hall,” Wallace told The Saugus Advocate this week. “I’m trying to educate myself on the rules and procedures of a recount.” “Votes have already been counted twice – unoffi cial on Election Day and posted at Town Hall as official on Nov. 5. So, I’m not expecting any changes,” he said. The Board of Registrars and the Town Clerk’s Offi ce will assemble tomorrow (Saturday, Nov. 22) morning in the second-fl oor auditorium at Town Hall to oversee a hand recount of all of the ballots cast in Precinct 5 to determine the fi fthplace fi nisher for Town Meeting, according to Town Clerk Ellen Schena. “A recount petition for Town Meeting Precinct 5 has been submitted and certified. Karli Brazis lost by 2 votes to Ron Wallace and asked for a hand count,” Schena told The Saugus Advocate. Brazis, who works as a clerk for the Board of Health and who previously served two terms as a Precinct 5 Town Meeting member, said the election results were close enough that she decided to request a recount. “Computers do make mistakes,” said Brazis, who was fi rst elected in 2015 and was reelected to a second term. She put aside plans to run again unTOWN ELECTION | SEE PAGE 2 Over 47 Years of Excellence! 1978 - 2025 2.83 Full Service ULS $3.25 Order online at angelosoil.com Kerosene Now Available! 3.37 3.57 Mid-grade Regular $3.59 FLEET CARD Check Out Our LOW PRICES!

Page 2 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Calling for a legal clarification Attorney General approves Town Meeting marijuana article, but recommends further review by town counsel to determine whether a ballot vote is necessary By Mark E. Vogler S tate Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell’s Office recently approved a Town Meeting article that would limit the number of marijuana establishments within the Business Highway Sustainable District (BHSD) to two businesses – one on each side of Route 1. TOWN ELECTION | FROM PAGE 1 But after months of review to determine whether Article 21 – which was approved 42-0 during the Annual Town Meeting in May – complied with state law, the attorney general has recommended further legal review by Town Counsel. “We approve the amendments adopted under Article 21 but offer comments for the Town’s consideration til this year so she could have time to raise a family. “It’s nothing personal. It’s just Lawrence A. Simeone Jr. Attorney-at-Law ~ Since 1989 ~ * Corporate Litigation * Criminal/Civil * MCAD * Zoning/Land Court * Wetlands Litigation * Workmen’s Compensation * Landlord/Tenant Litigation * Real Estate Law * Construction Litigation * Tax Lien * Personal Injury * Bankruptcy * Wrongful Death * Zoning/Permitting Litigation 300 Broadway, Suite 1, Revere * 781-286-1560 lsimeonejr@simeonelaw.net regarding whether a ballot vote is needed as a result of these amendments,” wrote Assistant Attorney General Nicole B. Caprioli, Deputy Director of the Attorney General’s Municipal Law Unit, in a letter to Town Clerk Ellen Schena. “The Town should consult with Town Counsel regarding the scope of the amendment to determine whethfor peace of mind. I just wanted to make sure that there were no mistakes,” Brazis said, explaining her reason for seeking the recount. The successful recount of 2015 Requests for recounts aren’t uncommon in Saugus or area communities. “I have had many recounts here in Saugus as well as assisted recounts in other communities, Middleton, Georgetown and Gloucester,” Schena said. But Schena said it’s been rare when a recount actually changed the result in a recent Saugus election. “Just once,” Schena said. er a ballot vote is required,” Caprioli wrote. Caprioli mentioned some technical aspects of the warrant article that need to be clarified. “It is not clear whether the limitation in Section 22.4.A limiting marijuana retail establishments in the BHSD to no more than two results in a limit on marijuana retailers in just the BHSD or in the entire Town,” “It was my very first recount in 2015, for Town Meeting,” she said. Schena was referring to the Town Election of 2015 when nine candidates ran for the five Town Meeting seats in Precinct 8. The seeds for a recount were planted when Arthur Grabowski relinquished his seat to serve on the School Committee after that election. Michael Coller, the sixth-place finisher, appeared ready to fill the vacancy. But Thomas Traverse, who finished in the seventh position – just a vote behind Coller’s 145 total, sought a recount. A recount produced surprise results. Neither Coller nor Traverse benefited. Coller’s vote Caprioli noted in her letter to the town. “It is also not clear whether, if the limitation applies to the entire Town, the limitation results in a limit on the number of marijuana retailers to ‘fewer than 20 per cent of the number of licenses issued within the town for the CLARIFICATION | SEE PAGE 7 total decreased by nine to 136. Traverse stayed at 144 votes. Steve Horlick – the eighth place finisher – jumped from 142 votes to 148 to win the vacant seat in Precinct 8. The Town Election of 2015 was one of those rare years when an election outcome was overturned by a recount. That was the same year when Wallace and Brazis – a 19-yearold candidate – were elected to their first terms on Town Meeting. Both were reelected in 2017. Brazis decided not to run again – until this year. Meanwhile, Wallace – who has recorded perfect attendance during his time as a Town Meeting member representing Precinct 5 – was poised to begin his sixth term before Brazis requested a recount. Long didn’t want a recount There could have been another recount following the Election Day results. Veteran Town Meeting Member Robert J. Long lost by just two votes to Joseph Nicolas DiFilippo for the fifth seat in Precinct 4. “I could have requested a recount. A number of people wanted me to do that,” said Long, who has been involved in Saugus local government as an elected official or a volunteer appointed to various boards since 1979. “Considering the low voter turnout, I figured maybe it’s time to let it go. I really didn’t want to go forward with a recount. The votes are official as posted, as far as I’m concerned. TOWN ELECTION | SEE PAGE 6

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Page 3 Honoring Our Veterans Parson roby Chapter of DAr will sponsor Wreaths Across America event in Saugus cemeteries next month (Editor’s Note: The following info is taken from a press release submitted by the Parson Roby Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution this week.) O n December 13th at noon, the Parson Roby Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (MA0136P) is sponsoring a Wreaths Across America event helping both Riverside and Old Burying Ground Cemeteries to remember and honor veterans by laying remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country’s fallen heroes. To sponsor your wreath(s) at $17 each or to volunteer to help place wreaths on December 13th, please visit www. wreathsacrossamerica.org/ MA0136P or use the QR code. There will be a brief ceremony at noon to honor all branches of the military followed by laying wreaths on our fallen heroes. Invite your friends and family to join us in honoring our servicemen and women. The cut-off date to order is November 28th. In 2021, our fi rst year sponsoring this event, we had over 360 wreaths sponsored. The community really stepped up and we are grateful for all the support we received. However, there are more than 1,200 veterans’ graves in Riverside and we are hoping that between the community and businesses there will be enough sponsored wreaths to WREATHS FOR THE VETERANS: The Parson Roby Chapter of the DAR will sponsor another Wreaths Across America event on Dec. 13. Nov. 28 is the deadline to sponsor a wreath. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) cover all those graves this year. The Daughters of the American Revolution’s mission is to preserve American history and secure America’s future through education and promoting patriotism. For more information on how to participate or “What We Do” email the Parson Roby Chapter DAR at parsonroby.saugusdar@ gmail.com. SABATINO/MASTROCOLA INSURANCE AGENCY 519 BROADWAY EVERETT, MA 02149 Auto * Home * Boat * Renter * Condo * Life * Multi-Policy Discounts * Commercial 10% Discounts * Registry Service Also Available Sabatino Insurance is proud to welcome the loyal customers of ALWAYS READY TO SERVE YOU: Our Staff are, Emma Davidson, Jeimy Sanchez, Josephine Leone, Marie D’Amore, Rocco Longo, Z’andre Lopez, Anthony DiPierro, Darius Goudreau, Laurette Murphy, Danielle Goudreau and Tina Davidson. PHONE: (617) 387-7466 FAX: (617) 381-9186 Visit us online at: WWW.SABATINO-INS.COM

Page 4 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Saugus Citizens in Action Town Meeting member organizes a small work party to clean up abandoned homeless camp on dead-end road By Mark E. Vogler P recinct 2 Town Meeting Member Robert J. Camuso, Sr. said he recently noticed that a homeless camp at the end of Eustis Road appeared to be abandoned, leaving behind a mess that posed a public safety hazard. “The camp has been there roughly two years until recently. It appeared vacant when I was checking out the area and noticed it hasn’t changed in If We Happen To Meet By Accident ... You’ll Be Glad You Found Us! There is a difference between the rest and the BEST! Celebrating 46 Years In Business! TONY’S AUTO BODY Call or Visit 781-321-0032 34 Sharon Street Malden, MA 02148 TONYSAUTOBODYLLC.COM COME VISIT OUR STATE OF THE ART BODY SHOP • Computerized Paint Matching (State of the Art Spray Booth) • Computerized Frame Machines • P.P.G. Refinishing System • R134 + 1234yf A/C Machines Fully Insured -RS2415 Insurance Company Approval ALL OUR WORK IS GUARANTEED! TONY BARTOLO Owner 46 Years Let Us Handle Your Next Insurance Claim. Go With the BEST It Doesn’t Get BETTER! RENTAL CARS Available ABANDONED HOMELESS CAMP AFTER CLEANUP: Left to right: Leo Getz, the owner of Junkster Bags, and Precinct 2 Town Meeting Member Robert J. Camuso, Sr., stood in the cleaned-up area at the end of Eustis Street where the homeless camp once existed. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) ABANDONED HOMELESS CAMP BEFORE CLEANUP: The area near the tent was littered with trash, including drug paraphernalia and hypodermic needles. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) about a month, so I assumed the occupants moved on,” Camuso told The Saugus Advocate this week. “I fi gured seeing the trash, drug paraphernalia and overall situation it would be a good idea to clean this area up to improve the area – and for safety reasons if small neighbors’ kids get into it playing and get stuck by a needle or injured,” he said. Camuso reached out for help on his “Anything in our Town of Saugus Massachusetts” web page. Selectman Anthony Cogliano saw the post on Camuso’s social media page and off ered to help. Leo Getz, the owner of Junkster Bags, off ered his business services free of charge. Camuso led a work crew of six to the abandoned camp last week (Nov. 14). “Friday morning, we all met up bright and early – rakes and shovels in hand – and quickly cleaned up the area and CLEAN UP | SEE PAGE 5

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Page 5 Three Saugus firefighters promoted (Editor’s Note: Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree’s office issued the following press release.) T own Manager Scott Crabtree and Saugus Fire Chief Michael Newbury are pleased to announce the promotions of three members of the Saugus Fire Department: Lieutenant Matthew Fowler, Temporary Lieutenant Nicholas Landry, and Temporary Lieutenant Frank Raimo. The firefighters were sworn into their new roles by Town Manager Crabtree during a ceremony held on Nov. 12 at the Public Safety Building. Fellow firefighters, family members, and friends gathered to support the three promoted firefighters. Town Manager Crabtree praised the firefighters for their hard work and the unwavering commitment to our community that earned them their promotions. “I want to congratulate the firefighters and their families for this tremendous achievement,” Town Manager Crabtree said. “It’s an honor to promote these three exceptional firefighters to leadership roles in the Fire Department. I am confident that these firefighters, who have full support from Chief Newbury, will continue to excel in their new positions.” • Fowler joined the Saugus Fire Department in 2006. He worked as an acting lieutenant CLEAN UP | FROM PAGE 4 dragged the Junkster bags out of the wooded area where Leo’s truck was there to load everything up for a trip to [WIN] Waste to dump it,” Camuso said. “I’m hoping this will catch on with Saugus neighborhoods. The power of volunteer work on getting this cleaned up made an eyesore area return back to its original look of natural woodlands. Everyone working together, the whole cleanup only took 30 to 45 minutes. It was great to see Selectman Anthony Cogliano and business owner Leo Getz (Junkster Bags) volunteering their time and business costs to get this FIRE DEPARTMENT PROMOTIONS: Left to right: Fire Chief Michael Newbury, Town Manager Scott Crabtree, Temporary Lieutenants Nicholas Landry and Frank Raimo, Lieutenant Matthew Fowler and Deputy Fire Chief Thomas D’Eon. Landry, Raimo and Fowler were recognized during last week’s promotional ceremony. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) for a year before being promoted to lieutenant. He also served in the United States Coast Guard, rising to the rank of Petty Officer Third Class. • Landry grew up in Saugus and graduated from Saugus High School in 2016. He joined the Saugus Fire Department in 2020 and previously worked as an EMT with Armstrong Ambulance for two years. • Another Saugus native, Raimo graduated from Saugus High School in 2005. He became a member of the Saugus Fire Department in 2016 and served as an acting lieutenant for eight months. Fire Chief Newbury said he area totally cleaned up,” he said. “It would be great to see more of this around our community. There’s already talk of another cleanup in another part of town after they saw this cleanup take place on social media. When you care about our community good things happen. Thank you to everyone for helping out. Let’s make this [an] ongoing community wide event with volunteers and elected officials that care. Sachem Pride!” Camuso said he wishes cleanups like this would become a regular weekend event where “residents go to places around Saugus to clean up areas like this one.” was proud to recommend the promotions for Lieutenant Fowler, Temporary Lieutenant Landry and Temporary Lieutenant Raimo. “It took a lot of sacrifices on your part to get to this point and the work you put in doesn’t go unnoticed,” Chief Newbury told the firefighters. “The backbone of the fire service is the firefighter ranks and the most important people are the initial decision Gerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law Is Your Estate in Order? Do you have an update Will, Health Care Proxy or Power of Attorney? If Not, Please Call for a Free Consultation. 14 Proctor Avenue, Revere (781) 284-5657 makers. You will be in the initial decision makers in life-ordeath situations, and I have true faith that each of you will make the correct decisions to protect not only the residents of this community, but the firefighters who work with you every day.”

Page 6 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Shining Lights of Everyday People Saugus students make BC High Honor Roll T he following local students made the Q1 Honor Roll at BC High for the 2025-2026 school year. High Honors Cameron Nguyen (2028) Wyatt Swart (2028) Honors Brenno Magalhaes (2026) Rylan Bierenbroodspot (2028) TOWN ELECTION | FROM PAGE 2 A NORTHERN LIGHTS SIGHT: Cheryl Walton Doucette and her husband Paul were enjoying a date night at Fox Hill Yacht Club when Cheryl noticed the aurora borealis from the deck overlooking the water. (Courtesy photo of Cheryl Doucette) members and guests. Ever since her father Ed Cheryl Walton Doucette (Courtesy of “The Sketch Artist”) “Not all of us can do great things but we can do small things with great love.”—Mother Teresa By Joanie Allbee C heryl Walton Doucette, who’s part of four generations of Saugonians, captured the Northern Lights at the Saugus Fox Hill Yacht Club at 114 Ballard St. last week (Tuesday night, Nov. 11) at around 9:30 pm. The Doucettes were on a date night and Cheryl noticed the aurora borealis from the back deck at the club. The sky was overtaken with red and green illuminations as Cheryl clicked away. Being a bright light herself, she glows from within as she extends open arms, a warm smile and a tender heart to all she meets. At the Yacht Club, she is often the greeter to new taught her to play pool, she has entered competitions; and as a winner, she has a few trophies to dust. Cheryl’s light burns brightly like a front door light that beckons forth a welcome in the darkness. “I am inspired by my friends and family,” said Grandma Cheryl, who loves to cook. “I live with the memories of loved ones and keeping traditions alive,” she said. As a green thumb gardener, she loves gardening and being surrounded by plants she’s revived. She has nurtured many; even as the time came to be a mother to her own mother, she stood fi rm by her side till the loved Saugonian Joan Walton took her last breath on Sept. 20, 2024. “God keeps it all in perspective.” Cheryl said. The Doucettes have been married for over 38 years. They enjoy their love and friendship. Cheryl recently added a new addition to her family — an affectionate orange cat named Garfi eld. Life goes on,” he said. From his perspective as a longtime participant in Saugus local government, Long said he doesn’t believe recounts overturn many elections. “I’m sure in a couple of instances, a recount has changed the results,” Long said. “In most cases, it doesn’t – because of a low voter turnout,” he said. Long recalled a recount that he and his wife Carol assisted with back in 1981. “Jean Banks finished eight votes behind Janette Fasano in the Board of Selectmen’s race and requested a recount. TOWN ELECTION | SEE PAGE 9 Monogram D4 Double siding Cedar impression half rounds Harvey Vinyl 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 Everett Aluminum Supplies pp Celebrating 66 Years in Business Since 1958!

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Page 7 Students and seniors team up for a ‘spook-tacular’ time M Special to Th e Advocate ystic Valley Elder Services (MVES) and Mys t i c Val - ley Regional Charter School (MVRCS) collaborated up for some intergenerational fun again this Halloween season. Students visited older adults and people with disabilities who live at 630 Salem St. in Malden to share some fall activities. Grade 3 students were accompanied by high schoolers. Both adults and youths were dressed to the hilt in their CLARIFICATION | FROM PAGE 2 retail sale of alcoholic beverages not to be drunk on the premises where sold under section 15 of chapter 138,’ such that this amendment requires a ballot vote,” she added. Caprioli also noted that state law authorizes a town to limit the number of marijuana establishments in the town, “provided however that for certain limitations, a town must submit the bylaw for approval to the voters before such limitation may take eff ect.” Board of Selectmen Chair most creative costumes. Students provided face painting for residents and distributed Halloween-themed activity sheets. The youths were toilet-papered at “mummy stations” and played Bingo games called by the residents. The third-graders went around to tables manned by the residents and trick-or-treated at each one. The building at 630 Salem St. is part of the Malden Housing Authority and has partnered with MVRCS for over 10 years. Terri Fitzgerald, who is MVES’ Supportive Housing coordinaDebra Panetta and Selectman Michael Serino cosponsored Article 21 as a measure to protect the town from adverse impact from an industry that has not benefi ted the town so far. “All we’ve seen is expenditures that we’ve been paying for,” Panetta told Town Meeting members in urging passage of the article in May. “Lawsuits, expenditures and time and effort. The amount of time that department heads, the town manager have spent on marijuana has been huge,” she said. “In closing, I think Saugus should focus on the two establishments that were given S-2 permits, and not look ALL DEPOSITS ARE INSURED IN FULL. Celebrate 135 years of strength & commitment to our community with a special 135-day CD offer. LIMITED-TIME OFFER: 4.25% APY* 135-Day CD *New money only. $250,000 maximum deposit. Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate of the date posted and is subject to change without notice. APY assumes the interest remains on deposit until maturity. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. A minimum of $500 is required to open a Certificate of Deposit and earn the advertised APY. 419 BROADWAY EVERETT, MA 02149 771 SALEM ST. LYNNFIELD, MA 01940 331 MONTVALE AVE. WOBURN, MA 01801 EVERETTBANK.COM 617-387-1110 781-776-4444 781-281-9092 MEMBER FDIC | MEMBER DIF Beverly Cargill in costume with MVRCS students Yukino Inomata of Malden and Robensline “Liline” Seide of Saugus (Courtesy photo) to bring a third, a fourth a fifth marijuana establishment into our town. We need to stop the bleeding and stop the lawsuits. There is no public need to have three marijuana establishments in town,” she said. It’s been more than three years since the Annual Town Meeting voted overwhelmingly in favor of a zoning article that allowed the sale of recreational marijuana in town. But Saugus – like many communities in Massachusetts that welcomed the cannabis industry with hopes of benefi ting from a new revenue stream – hasn’t seen the benefi ts it was expecting. tor at the site, noted that residents always look forward to their shared events and have a great time with the students. MVES is a nonprofit agency that has provided services and resources to older adults, people with disabilities and their caregivers for 50 years. For more about MVES or to partner with the organization, please visit www.mves.org or call 781-324-7705. MVRCS enrolls students from Malden, Everett, Revere, Saugus and surrounding communities. For more about MVRCS, visit www.mvrcs.com. Like us on Facebook advocate newspaper Facebook.com/Advocate.news.ma Toys! $599.95 Collectibles! $1,195.95

Page 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Snow Thrower Safety Tips: Keep Best Practices in Mind This Winter C learing snow and ice from driveways, sidewalks and parking lots is no small job. You rely on your outdoor power equipment to do the heavy lifting, and it’s important to keep safety in mind. The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) reminds home and business owners to use snow throwers, often referred to as snow blowers, safely and offers tips to help. “Weather today is unpredictable. You need to have your snow thrower serviced and ready to power up,” says OPEI President and CEO Kris Kiser. “Review your owner’s manual so you can use your equipment safely.” Kiser says preparation is key and that home and business owners should consider the following: Review the owner’s manual. Check the owner’s manual for safe handling procedures. If the manual cannot be found, look it up online, and store a copy on your computer so it’s available to reference in the future. Review how to operate controls. Be able to shut off equipment quickly. Check equipment. The snow thrower should be powered off when being checked over. Adjust any cables and check the auger. Charge batteries. Locate the batteries for your snow thrower and charge them fully before it snows. Purchase fuel. Be sure to use the correct fuel recommended by the equipment’s manufacturer. For most gasoline-powered snow throwers, that is E10 or less. Often fuel stations are closed after a storm so buy gasoline in advance of storms. Fuel that is more than 30 days old can phase separate and cause operating problems. For more information on fueling properly see www. opei.org/programs/ethanolwarning Store and use fuel properly. Place gasoline in a proper fuel container and label it with the date purchased and the ethanol content. Store fuel safely and out of the reach of children. Fill the fuel tank outside before starting the engine and while the engine is cold. Never add fuel to a running or hot engine. Clear the area. Snow can sometimes hide objects. Doormats, hoses, balls, toys, boards, wires, and other debris should be removed from areas you intend to clear. When run over by a snow thrower, these objects may harm the machine or people. Dress for winter weather. Locate safety gear now, and place it in an accessible closet or location. Wear safety glasses, gloves and footwear that can handle cold and slippery surfaces when operating the snow thrower. KEY SAFETY TIP: Never put your hands inside the auger or chute. Use a clean out tool to unclog snow or debris from the snow thrower. Your hands should never go inside the auger or chute. Turn OFF the snow thrower if you need to clear a clog. If you need to remove debris or unclog snow, always turn off the snow thrower. Wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop before St. Anthony’s Flea Market 250 Revere St., Revere, Lower Hall Indoor Flea Market SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13 from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM THIS IS THE NEXT TO LAST FLEA MARKET This will be our last flea market so come and say farewell to our vendors! There will be great buys for the holidays! Thank You for all your support through the clearing any clogs or debris. Operate in visible conditions. Never operate the snow thrower without good visibility or light. Aim with care. Never throw snow toward people or cars. Keep children or pets inside and away from your snow thrower when it is operating. Use extreme caution on slopes and hills. Use caution when changing directions on slopes. Do not attempt to clear steep slopes. Know where the cord is. If using an electric powered snow thrower, be aware of where the power cord is at all times. Avoid tripping.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Page 9 Saugus breaks through, blanks East Boston, 34–0, ahead of Thanksgiving clash with Peabody By Dom Nicastro F or the first time in more than a month, the Saugus High football team walked off the field with smiles — and a victory — after a dominant 34–0 win over East Boston Friday night. The victory snapped a three-game scoreless drought and gave the Sachems a much-needed momentum boost as they prepare for their annual Thanksgiving matchup with Peabody. It was the kind of complete performance Saugus had been chasing since mid-October. For weeks, head coach Steve Cummings had preached that the team was “inches away” — inches from turning big plays into six points, inches from sustaining drives, inches from seeing several close first halves finally tip in their favor. On Friday on the road to Eastie, those inches finally aligned. Saugus (now 2–8) wasted no time taking control. On the first drive of the night, quarterback Eli Fialho — who has shown steady mechanical growth all season — delivered a 43-yard strike to senior captain Jordan Rodriguez. On the next possession, he found Ryan Shea for a 39-yard score, a familiar pairing that has been one of the offense’s few reliable sparks this fall. By the time sophomore Paxton Ferraro ripped off a 68yard touchdown run to make it 20– 0, it felt like the Sachems were releasing a month’s worth of frustration in a single quarter. Ferraro’s score was emblematic of the growth Cummings has pointed to in recent weeks — a young player gaining confidence, running with purpose and giving the offense a legitimate home-run threat. In the second quarter, senior captain Chris Mazin punched in a 27-yard touchdown run — the type of hard downhill burst Cummings has praised all season — and Saugus carried a 28–0 lead into halftime. Shea’s second touchdown reception of the night, a 36yard catch in the third quarter, capped the scoring and comTOWN ELECTION | FROM PAGE 6 They had a full townwide recount. Both sides had to lawyer up,” Long said. “It was quite an expensive recount. But in the end, it really didn’t overturn the results. It didn’t really change anything. Most recounts never do.” THE OFFICIAL RESULTS Here’s how the candidates for Precinct 5 Town Meeting finished in the Nov. 4 Town Election, based on the results released the next day by the Town Clerk’s Office. An asterisk indicates an incumbent. The top five vote-getters will serve a two-year term (2025-27). Candidate Total *Pamela J. Goodwin *Jaclyn Annette Hickman *Mark Stephen Panetta Lori Ann Fauci *Ronald Mark Wallace Karli McConaghy Brazis *Brenton H. Spencer Joshua L. Dellheim 246 207 191 186 184 182 166 148 That identity resurfaced Friday. East Boston never found traction offensively, and Saugus consistently won at the point of attack — something the coaching staff has emphasized since August. The Jets (1–9) had been shut out in three straight games entering the matchup, but Saugus made sure that streak continued with disciplined pursuit, secure tackling and much cleaner gap assignments than pleted Saugus’ most productive offensive performance of the season. Just as important: the Sachems’ defense delivered its first shutout of the fall and the lowest point total since it gave up six in a win over Lynn Tech Sept. 27. Earlier in the year, Cummings repeatedly pointed to his defense as the team’s backbone — noting the toughness of his edge play, the instincts of his secondary and the downhill physicality of middle linebacker Nathan Santos, for instance. in recent weeks. Now comes the annual Thanksgiving rivalry game — and for the first time in weeks, Saugus enters with momentum rather than frustration. Next up is Peabody, a program that has historically been a tough Thanksgiving opponent for Saugus and a team that finally broke through last week after a brutal stretch. The Tanners (1–9) earned their first win of the season, 19–14 over Waltham in the Division 2 consolation round, snapping a nine-game losing streak in which few contests were close. Like Saugus, Peabody’s offense has struggled for much of the year, though it did flash explosiveness in a 54–32 loss to Lynn English on Sept. 26. Both programs will arrive at Veterans Memorial Stadium hungry to finish their seasons on an upswing — something neither team has consistently achieved this fall. This year, both teams share the same script: tough schedules, offensive inconsistencies, but a chance to define the ending on their own terms. Cummings has spent all season hammering home two themes: resilience and growth. Even in losses, he has pointed out emerging contributors like Ferraro and Isaiah Santiago, the defensive strides of Santos, and the leadership of captains Rodriguez, Shea, Mazin, and Kobe Jette. And though this season has delivered more adversity than triumph, the Sachems now have one final opportunity to turn a late spark into a lasting memory. Kickoff for the Thanksgiving Day game at Peabody is set for Thursday, Nov. 27, at 10 a.m. Be prepared before the next power outage. Receive a free 5-year warranty with qualifying purchase* - valued at $535. Call 866-852-0221 to schedule your free quote!

Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Beautiful trees, raffles, petting zoo animals and Santa highlight 15th Annual M.E.G. Foundation Festival of Trees By Tara Vocino T he 15th Annual M.E.G. Foundation Festival of Trees got guests in the Christmas spirit over the weekend. “Every year it gets better and better,” M.E.G. Foundation President Janice Jarosz said. “This year, we have approximately 50 trees and 30 baskets to be raffled off.” Guests pay for raffle tickets with proceeds going toward the cultural center for the town. Rental fee is $100 to $375 for events, such as birthday parties and recovery meetings. The space is also home to a children’s food pantry alongside sports programs and Daughters of the American Revolution meetings. M.E.G. Foundation board member Charlotte Line came up with an idea in 2010 when she visited the Methuen Festival of Trees and wanted to bring it to town. The festival runs Friday from 3 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 3 to 8 p.m. Winners will be announced Sunday via telephone. Outside on Sunday, children were enjoying the Enchanted Animals petting zoo. Enchanted Animals staffer Kirstin Hubbard had goats, an alpaca, bunnies, chickens and guinea pigs for children to pet. “It’s a good time,” Hubbard said. “The M.E.G. has hired us the past six to seven years.” Saugus resident Dylan Fitzgerald, 7 months, met Adam, an alpaca, for the first time, guided by her mother, Christine, of Saugus, and her grandmother, Jennifer, of Malden. Belmonte STEAM Academy third grader Noah Hodgkins, 9, was petting a goat named Misty. “It’s a great attraction for the children,” his mother, Danielle, said. “The goat is our favorite animal.” Wearing Christmas attire, Saugus resident Christine Fitzgerald, her son, Dylan, 7 months, and his grandmother, Jennifer, of Malden, met an alpaca named Adam for the first time. Belmonte STEAM Academy third grader Noah Hodgkins petted a goat named Misty from Enchanted Animals’ petting zoo. Shown from left to right: Enchanted Animals staff Kristin Hubbard, holding a chicken named Hennifer, Veterans Early Learning Center pre-kindergartner Emilia Bluestein, 4, with Belmonte STEAM Academy fourth grader Bella Bluestein, 9, and second grader Lily Bluestein, 7, dressed in Christmas attire. Belmonte STEAM Academy fourth grader Bella Bluestein, 9, said the bunny is her favorite animal. “I like feeding them and how soft it is,” Bella said. Selectwoman Chair Debra Panetta said it’s incredible how talented everyone is. “It’s an incredible event for a great cause,” Panetta said. “People look forward to this every year.” M.E.G. Foundation board members Laurie Davis and Patricia Staples decorated the downstairs room as a candy lane for photos with Santa on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 4 to 7 p.m. Steven Bevacqua will provide digital photographs. Upstairs, Saugus resident Deedra MacGee liked WIN Waste Innovation’s wine tree. “This is the only tree FESTIVAL OF TREES | SEE PAGE 11 M.E.G. Foundation board members Patricia Staples and Laurie Davis created this candy land scene where Santa will be on Saturday from 4 to 7 p.m. Danvers resident Mila LeVangie was eyeing this ballet-themed tree from Dance Junction.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Page 11 FESTIVAL OF TREES | FROM PAGE 10 that is a wine holder,” MacGee said. “I’m drawn to this, and it’s unusual.” Belmonte STEAM Academy fourth grader Mila Cogliano, 9, was hoping to win the Wicked tree. “My cheer team is called Wicked,” Mila said. “It’s a good movie, and I like Ariana Grande singing.” Mila added that she likes the colors and ornaments on the tree. New trees are Crumble, Lowe’s, Flo Golf and WIN Waste Innovations, according to Jarosz. M.E.G. Foundation President Janice Jarosz and Selectwoman Chair Debra Panetta said the event gets better each year. Shown from left to right: daughter-in-law Kristen Waldowski, M.E.G. Foundation President Janice Jarosz and son-inlaw Stephen Waldowski by the M.E.G. Foundation tree in memory of M.E.G. Foundation board member “Lee” Dyment, 96, who died this year. During Sunday’s 15th Annual M.E.G. Foundation Festival of Trees at the M.E.G. building, Saugus residents Deedra MacGee and Denise Chainey were hoping to win this wine holder tree from WIN Waste Innovations. Belmonte STEAM Academy fourth grader Mila Cogliano wanted to win this Wicked tree since she is on a cheering team called Wicked. Saugus Middle School seventh grader Cameron Loberg and Elena Sanfilipo liked Santa’s village underneath this tree. (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) BBB Tip: Don’t scan QR codes on unexpected packages A package you didn’t order could be a fun surprise, but be careful, especially if it comes with a QR code. It might be the setup for a scam. In a “brushing” scam, you receive a package you didn’t order, often without a return address. This is often a setup by unscrupulous companies who found your address online. After the company ships the product to you, they can post a fake, positive review on your behalf to improve their store’s ratings and get more sales. Reports to the Better Business Bureau (BBB) Scam Tracker over the last few months show a twist on brushing scams where the package contains a QR code. The code comes with instructions to scan it to find out who sent the package or how to start a return. Scanning the QR code can lead to a phishing website or download malware onto your device. In one BBB Scam Tracker report, a consumer received a package of pasta via Amazon in her name. Thinking it was a gift from a friend, she scanned the QR code that came with the package. The QR code took her to a website that appeared to be Amazon. The consumer said she has received a higher-than-normal amount of scam emails since scanning the QR code. It might seem like there are no downsides to a free package, but it could be a sign that someone is using your personal information for their own gain. If this happens to you, BBB recommends checking the security of your accounts and notifying the retailer who sent you the package. What to do if you receive a package you didn’t order: • Don’t scan QR codes. They might take you to a phishing site that steals your personal information or download malware onto your device. • Protect your identity. If you did scan the QR code and enter personal information, change your passwords for any compromised accounts and enable two-factor authentication. Also, keep a close eye on your credit reports and credit card bills after you receive the package. • Notify the retailer. If you can tell where the package is from, go directly to the retailer’s website to get their contact information and report the package as a scam. Retailers like Amazon have policies banning brushing and fake reviews, and they will investigate your report. • Check for fake reviews. If you can identify the company that sent you the packages, look for false reviews in your name and report them to the retailer. • Pause deliveries. One package is no big deal, but some targets of brushing scams are overwhelmed with a flood of unordered packages, creating a serious problem. If this happens, you might want to consider temporarily refusing package delivery at your home address and directing your real orders to a package acceptance service. • Keep the package. The one silver lining of brushing scams is that you get to keep the gift; the Federal Trade Commission says you have a legal right to keep unordered merchandise. Don’t BBB TIP | SEE PAGE 12

Page 12 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Saugus field hockey captains reflect on remarkable growth in 2025 F By Dom Nicastro or the first time since 2016, Saugus field hockey went dancing in November. After years of rebuilding and close calls, the Sachems broke through this fall with a 9-9 record and a dramatic overtime appearance in the Division 3 state tournament — a feat that capped a season defined by resilience, leadership and belief. And at the heart of it all was a small but mighty captains group that guided the program through transition and triumph: seniors Anna Enwright and Audrey Comeau and juniors Sydney Ferreira and Jordyn Ripley-Deminski. New Head Coach Julie Champigny, who spent two years as an assistant under longtime coach Barbara Guarente, inherited a young team of 18 players, including seventh graders getting their first taste of varsity play. What she also inherited was a leadership core ready to carry the torch. “I’m really just proud of this team,” Champigny said. “We came back with a lot of returners, but overall, a really young team. We had only two seniors on our whole team, and they were leaders throughout the whole season. When we won against Danvers, that just propelled us to a great rest of the season.” That 1-0 victory over Danvers — a longtime powerhouse in the Northeastern Conference — became the defining moment of the year. Sophomore Julia Strout netted the winner off a corner, and the Sachems’ confidence soared from there. “Definitely the Danvers one,” said Enwright when asked about the signature win this ponequet that could have gone either way. “They really gave it their all,” Champigny said. “We had to battle through overtime and also on grass, which we were not expecting. It was just a very different surface than turf, but they still brought it. Kudos to Apponequet’s coach — she’s been there for 45 years — it was a pretty historic game for both sides. I almost had a heart attack. It was very scary at times, but I’m just so proud of Saugus.” The 7-on-7 overtime format stretched every ounce of endurance from the Sachems’ small roster, and the experience is something Champigny believes will pay dividends next year. Saugus High Sachems field hockey captains and coach, pictured from left to right: Jordyn Ripley-Deminski, Sydney Ferreira, Coach Julie Champigny, Audrey Comeau and Anna Enwright. fall. “That was the hardest one, and that was the game that everybody tried the hardest, and we came really together as a team. There was a lot of talking and everything. That’s really what got us into the tournament.” Comeau agreed. “We had the same team, but I feel like this year we were definitely closer,” she said. “We bonded way more. We all worked together more on the field.” That chemistry didn’t happen by accident. The Sachems put in the work to become not just teammates, but a family — something Ferreira said was crucial to their turnaround. And it was even Ferreira’s mom BBB TIP | FROM PAGE 11 try to return it, especially if there are instructions to scan a QR code or enter information. It could needlessly compromise more of your personal information. For more information Visit BBB’s online shopping HQ for more tips on shopping safely online. Read BBB’s article on brushing scams at https://www.bbb. org/article/news-releases/20509-amazon-brushing-scam-indicates-a-seriwho did the cooking on those team family nights. “We had pasta dinners and fun practices that really brought us together,” she said. “We also went to a lot of the unified games and did things outside of field hockey.” Her mother’s homemade pasta, it turns out, became a bit of a team legend. “Sydney’s mom cooked our entire pasta dinner this year,” Ripley-Deminski said with a smile. “It was really good.” But once the dinner plates were cleared, it was all business. Ferreira anchored a defense that improved with each game, while Ripley-Deminski emerged as one of the conferous-problem-for-victims. Stay alert to shipping fraud by visiting FedEx’s website, the U.S Postal Service and UPS’s online resource center. If you spot a delivery scam, report it. Visit BBB.org/ScamTracker to report your experience and help others learn the signs of a scam. ence’s top goalies, guiding a gritty backline that kept Saugus in nearly every contest. “I would definitely say I’m on the louder side,” Ripley-Deminski said. “I’m very talkative in the games — about telling everyone where to be. I think a lot of the team wanted it so bad, and you could really see it on the field with the hustling and getting back. Our defensive corners were very impressive. We had a lot of penalty shots on us, and the defense was able to stop the ball before it could even get to me.” That defense was tested again in the team’s unforgettable postseason match: a 1-0 double-overtime loss to Ap“It’s really special that we can take girls in as eighth graders — and this year, even seventh graders,” she said. “We have girls who have been working in this program for years, and this was the year so many came into their own. They’ve been working together, and that’s been a huge part of our success.” The captains are already looking ahead. For juniors Ferreira and Ripley-Deminski, the bar has been set. “We’re doing a winter league, then captains practices and summer stuff,” Ripley-Deminski said. “It’s exciting to look ahead to next year.” Champigny’s excitement matches theirs. “We have just such strong players and personalities coming back,” she said. “Only things can look up for Saugus field hockey. I’m very excited. We’ll miss our seniors — but we’re building something that’s only getting stronger.” For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 781-233-4446 or info@advocatenews.net

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Page 13 The Sounds of Saugus By Mark E. Vogler Good morning, Saugus We are just six days away from Thanksgiving, one of three popular American holidays that string together the final six weeks of the year. Six weeks might seem like a long time. But with so many holiday-related activities between now and the rest of the year, this period seems to breeze by much too quickly. Saugus, like every other community in America, will soon be hitting the busiest times of the year – times for family and friends to share good times, friendship and fellowship as we await a new year. Enjoy the time you spend with family, relatives and friends as the year 2025 winds down. A library tribute to Tom Sheehan Anyone who walks around in the main lobby of the Saugus Public Library between now and Dec. 5 will get a chance to see and embrace the spirit of the late Tom Sheehan, the proud Saugonian who dedicated his retirement to writing books – many of them about the place he called home. Sheehan, who passed away at age 97 on Oct. 16, wrote more than 50 books – many of them about Saugus and many of them available for residents to borrow from the library for their leisurely reading. Last week, the library paid a special tribute to Sheehan by putting them on a display table in the main lobby. “Mr. Sheehan was a prolific writer and a proud Saugonian through and through,” Saugus Public Library Director Alan Thibeault said this week. “It’s only fitting that we prominently feature his works here in his hometown library,” he said. Sheehan had a burning passion for writing from his teenage days as a Saugus High School student in the Class of 1947, where he loved to write poetry. He was a Korean War Veteran who served two years in the U.S. Army, discharging as a staff sergeant. After the service, Sheehan finished his bachelor’s degree at Boston College before spending three decades writing company policies at Raytheon in North Andover and raisA TRIBUTE TO TOM SHEEHAN: A collection of books authored by the late Tom Sheehan will be on display in the main lobby of the Saugus Public Library through Dec. 5. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) ing a family. But when he really got into his writing, he went on to write more than 50 books and still had more writing projects in the works at the time of his death. He was versatile in his prime as a writer, penning poetry, personal essays, local history and novels – love stories, war stories and even Westerns. Sheehan’s days of writing are over, but his spirit lives on at the Saugus Public Library. If you are headed to the library this weekend to grab some reading material, check out the Tom Sheehan book collection for something to take home. This week’s “Shout Outs” We received a few recommendations from our readers this week for Saugus residents to be recognized for contributing to the betterment of Saugus. From Janice Jarosz, a frequent contributor to The Saugus Advocate: “A shout out to the Saugus Fire Department concerning a recent incident last Friday evening at the MEG building. We had just begun greeting many of the visitors who were hoping to view all the Christmas trees. But, as they came through the door, the smell of gas seemed to be coming in from somewhere outside. “National Grid was working on installing a new gas meter, and something must have gone wrong so, we all evacuated the building, called the fire department and within minutes they were on the scene. “It took another hour for the repair, and all the while those handsome firefighters kept their watchful eyes on the progress and stayed until the area was safe. How lucky we all are to have such a fine Fire Department!” From Precinct 6 Town Meeting Member Jeanie Bartolo: “A big ‘Shout Out’ to three Saugus Fire Fighters who recently received promotions: Lieutenant Matt Fowler, Temporary Lieutenant Nick Landry and Temporary Lieutenant Frank Raimo. Congratulations!” From Selectman Frank Federico: “Our town is so lucky to have volunteers like Chris Howe. He has done so much to take this program to the next level.” Federico was one of a dozen readers to comment on the Advocate Newspapers Facebook page in response to last week’s article about the success of the Saugus Youth and Rec Girls Basketball program since Howe took over as the program director two years ago. (Please see SAUGUS’ MOST PROLIFIC BOOK AUTHOR: It’s been said by local historians that nobody wrote more published words about Saugus than the late Tom Sheehan, who wrote more than 50 books before passing away last month at age 97. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) “A surging Saugus sport” in the Nov. 14 edition of The Saugus Advocate). Seventy-eight readers indicated that they either loved or liked the article. From John Benoit, president of the Saugus Babe Ruth League and the Saugus Little League, who offered a multi “shout out” to several people who contributed to the successful revival of Babe Ruth League baseball in Saugus: “After a 10+ year hiatus, we have brought Babe Ruth baseball back to Saugus! This fall, we had 15 boys between the ages of 12-15 years old play together on the same Saugus Babe Ruth team and they made a big splash!! They went 7-3 on the season and won the fall championship game against Peabody! Big thanks to Bob Davis who helped make the World Series park available for them to play on and kept the field well groomed for this next generation of ball players. Also, a shout out to Old School for helping our boys look sharp on the baseball field with the fitted caps and making a snazzy logo celebrating Sachem pride!” 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 (mvogeatcomcast.net) with a mention in the subject line of “An Extra Shout Out.” No more than a paragraph; anything longer might lend itself to a story and/or a photo. Saugus United Parish Food Pantry The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry is open today (Friday, Nov. 21) from 9:30-11 a.m. at 50 Essex St. in the basement of Cliftondale Congregational Church. The food pantry welcomes all neighbors facing food insecurity on Friday mornings. Volunteers are also welcome. Please call the Food Pantry Office (781-233-2663) or go to the website (cliftondalecc.org) for details. Festival of Trees continues this weekend at The MEG The second weekend of the 15th Annual Festival of Trees begins today (Friday, Nov. 21) from 3 to 8 p.m. at The MEG Building (54-58 Essex St., Saugus). Visit the historic building; enjoy some holiday refreshment THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 15

Page 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Saugus Gardens in the Fall Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable By Laura Eisener N ow that the government shutdown has ended and the gates have reopened at Saugus Iron Works, dogwalkers and others who have missed their strolls through the grounds during the past month and a half can resume their activities. There is still some good fall color, including a smoke tree (Cotinus coggygria) in the garden that has vivid orange fall color. The larger smoke tree in the lawn area is a slightly different variety, and its yellowish fall color has now faded, but this one’s orange leaves stand out against the dark color of the 17th-century house. With so many leaves off the trees this week, we find that many lawns, driveways, sidewalks and streets have become a collage of foliage. In some areas, red carpets have developed under Japanese maples (Acer palmatum). In other areas, leaves of several different tree species blend together where the wind has blown them. My side lawn is covered in a diversity of leaf shapes and colors: red maple (Acer rubrum) leaves in variations of red and yellow, the more deeply incised silver maple (Acer sacharinum) in solUsually people do not expect a bearded iris to bloom in November, but ‘Immortality’ often does rebloom in fall. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) id yellow, heart shaped catalpa leaves that are still mostly green, a wider heart shaped yellow leaf from a poplar sapling (Populus sp.), bright yellow castor aralia (Kalopanax septemlobus) with seven pointed lobes and black oak (Quercus velutina) leaves, which are already brown and crispy. While most of these trees are seen in many locations throughout the area, the castor aralia is seldom found in A collage of leaves on a lawn in Lynnhurst includes foliage of castor aralia, catalpa, red maple, silver maple, black oak and poplar brought down by Sunday’s wind and rain. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) nurseries and is quite unusual. It is a tree from Asia, the only species in the Aralia family (Araliaceae) that becomes a large tree, sometimes 60 feet tall. It has airy clusters of small white flowers in late summer, and through the winter the spiny bark on the trunk makes it intriguing. There are some shrubby family members that are grown in gardens, most of which have spiny stems. The devil’s walking stick (Aralia spinosa) is a short shrub native to eastern North America, its common name no doubt stemming from the spines on its leaf margins, midribs and the stems of the plant. Very similar to devil’s walking stick is an aralia from Asia. Both species are also sometimes called Angelica tree. Unlike the castor aralia, those in the aralia genus have compound foliage. Small nearly black drupes on all three species are sometimes eaten by birds. Halloween decorations have Orange fall foliage on a smoke tree beside the Appleton-Taylor-Mansfield House at the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site stands out against the dark background. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) An inflated turkey presides over other Thanksgiving classics, such as corn and pumpkins. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) given way to harvest and Thanksgiving themes. Many versions of turkey decorations can be seen on lawns around town. Real ones, too, can be seen strolling through several neighborhoods! Monday was an especially blustery day, which became a challenge for inflated decorations and for any leaves that are still trying A friendly inflated turkey and a cornucopia of harvest vegetables keep their eyes on people walking in the Saugus Center neighborhood. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) to cling to their branches. Just as winter is around the corner, some of our garden plants are still determined to bloom. Roses are budding in many parts of town, and fall bloomers like chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum morifolium) and some asters (Aster, Symphiotrichum and Euribya spp.) are still showing bright flower colors. While many people think of bearded irises (Iris germanica hybrids) as early summer bloomers, there are some varieties that rebloom, like the ‘Bernice’ that I mentioned in this column a few weeks ago. My ‘Immortality’ iris (Iris germanica ‘Immortality”) is just getting ready to rebloom now, and I hope it will be open by Thanksgiving. This one is very pale blue in bud but snow white when in full bloom. I am waiting to see whether it can weather these cold nights and strong winds and will keep everyone updated! Editor’s Note: Laura Eisener is a landscape design consultant who helps homeowners with landscape design, plant selection and placement of trees and shrubs, as well as perennials. She is a member of the Saugus Garden Club and offered to write a series of articles about “what’s blooming in town” shortly after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. She was inspired after seeing so many people taking up walking.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Page 15 SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 13 while you check out the collection of trees. There’s a special treat in store for visitors tomorrow (Saturday, Nov. 22). The MEG will be open from 3 to 8 p.m., with the highlight being a visit from Santa Claus, who will be arriving at 4 p.m. Children can come and meet Santa and have their photos taken with him by photographer Steve Bevacqua from 4 to 7 p.m. There will be refreshments served by Mrs. Claus and a special celebrity. Pancake Breakfast Sunday at Middle-High School The Saugus Band & Chorus Parents Association is holding a Pancake Breakfast fundraiser on Sunday, Nov. 23, at the Saugus Middle High School cafeteria, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tickets cost $10 for adults and $5 for kids and can be purchased at the door. The event will include musical performances, raffle baskets and photo opportunities with Santa Claus. Turkey Trot at Breakheart Sunday The Friends of Breakheart Reservation will again be sponsoring the Annual Turkey Trot on Sunday (Nov. 23). Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. The races will start at 10 a.m. There will be a 5K run and a 3K walk over a mixed terrain, rain or shine. A $10 donation is required to enter. The Friends will use the proceeds for park activities and future events. Cash or check only. No Venmo. Turkeys will be awarded to the fastest male and female runners. Raffle prizes will be open to all who donate. Meet at Christopher P. Dunne Visitor Center, 177 Forest St., Saugus. For more information, please call 781-2331854, ext. 1019. Community Art Project The Saugus Cultural Council is organizing a community art project that everyone can participate in! The submission deadline is Friday, Dec. 5. Paper squares with diagonal or zigzag lines representing parts of a bridge can be picked up at the Saugus Public Library or the Saugus Senior Center. Use the square to show your cultural or personal identity using any art medium: drawing, painting, writing, collage or other. Submit your square before closing BABE RUTH LEAGUE BASEBALL IS BACK! After more than a decade of dormancy, Saugus enjoyed the return of Babe Ruth League baseball in a huge way – a 7-3 record for the season, plus a Fall Championship win over Peabody. And the team looked sharp in their sporty new uniforms that celebrate Sachem pride. Please see this week’s “shout outs” for more details. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) time on Friday, Dec. 5, by dropping it off at the library or the Senior Center in the receptacle provided at each site. Your square will become part of a large-scale community artwork celebrating the diverse cultures and generations of our town of Saugus! This is open to Saugus residents of all ages The assembled final product will be displayed on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the Saugus Community Festival: Culture & 411. If you have questions, email the Saugus Cultural Council at saugusculturalcouncil@gmail.com Senior Center Basket Raffle underway The Saugus Senior Center has launched the holidays with a Basket Raffle Fundraiser, featuring more than 40 baskets and 25 gift cards. The fundraiser will be open at the center (466 Central St.) Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 6, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fifteen tickets cost $10 with a chance to win a door prize. The drawing will be held on Monday, Dec. 15, at 10 a.m. at the center. All proceeds benefit the Saugus Senior Center. Holiday crafts fair at St. John’s Dec. 6 St. John’s Episcopal Church is hosting a Christmas Craft Fair on Saturday, December 6, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 8 Prospect St. in Saugus. We will have a number of assorted crafts, baked goods and vendor tables, as well as an indoor yard sale, snack bar, etc. Wills, Trusts and Asset Protection Presentation Dec. 8 The Saugus-Everett Elks Drug Awareness Committee and Eagle Bank are sponsoring a Free Presentation for Wills, Trusts and Asset Protection. This event will be held on Monday, Dec. 8, from 10-11 a.m. at the Saugus Senior Center (466 Central St. in Saugus). Eagle Bank will be providing an attorney to discuss many issues: estate taxes, Medicaid, probate, property assignments, advantages and disadvantages of wills and living trusts and much more. To attend this free event, please call the Saugus Senior Center at 781-231-4178. Light refreshments will be served and walkin’s are welcome. Library hosts Teen Creative Writing Group Dec. 8 Please join us on December 8 in the Brooks Room of the Saugus Public Library at 4 p.m. for a teen creative writing program! You can work on any creative writing project, such as a story, novel or poem. No registration is required; suitable for fifth grade and up. For details, contact Rachel at 781-231-4168 (Reference) or rhuntington@nobel.org. Opening on the Finance Committee The Town Moderator is seeking applicants to fill a vacancy on the Town’s Finance Committee. The Finance Committee is responsible for reviewing the Town’s annual budget and any financial articles on the Town Warrant and advising Town Meeting on their feasibility. Interested parties should send a letter of interest citing their qualifications to the Town Moderator at precinct4steve@ gmail.com Fall curbside leaf collection dates Town Manager Scott Crabtree announced recently that fall curbside leaf collection will take place during the weeks listed below. • Monday, Nov. 17 to Friday, Nov. 21, 2025 • Monday, Dec. 8 to Friday, Dec. 12, 2025 Residents may dispose of leaves curbside on their regularly scheduled trash and recycling collection day, between Monday and Friday on these dates listed. Leaves should be left outside at the curb by 7 a.m. on the appropriate days. Please ensure that leaf containers are physically separated from trash and recycling. Paper leaf bags are the preferred method of leaf disposal. If you are using barrels, they must be clearly marked with yard waste stickers. Yard waste stickers, which are free, may be obtained at Inspectional Services in the lower level of Saugus Town Hall at 298 Central St., or at the Saugus Department of Public Works at 515 Main St. 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 pickups will not be conducted. Please contact Recycling Director Scott Brazis at 781-231-4036 with any questions. A Call for Art at the library The Saugus Public Library welcomes artists to exhibit work in the Library at 295 Central St. Amateur and professional artists of all ages are invited to participate in solo shows. Artists who are Saugus residents are encouraged to register, along with artists from other communities, on a first-come, first-served basis. Each selected artist will be assigned no less than one month to exhibit work. The spacious, well-lit First Floor Reading Room contains space for up to 15 two-dimensional works (painting, drawings, photographs, etc.) The Library also has a glass-fronted locking display case in the Main Lobby with space for four to eight two-dimensional pieces or up to six three-dimensional objects. • Works will be displayed in the Library for one to two calendar months. • The library’s Art & Exhibit Display Policy must be adhered to. • Sales inquiries and transactions are not the responsibility of the Library or its staff and must be handled strictly buyer to artist. • Replacements for sold work are required. • The artist will place or hang their own show with the assistance of a staff member (a hanging system on slat board is used in the Reading Room). If you are interested in exhibiting your work, please email the library at SAU@noblenet.org. THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 16

Page 16 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 15 Saugus High Class of 1965 reunion The Saugus High Class of 1965 will be celebrating its 60th Reunion on Saturday, Nov. 29, at Prince Pizzeria on Route 1 South in Saugus. Cost is $50 per person. You can contact Ellen Santosuosso at 781-666-3470 or esantosuosso@gmail.com for more details. Come join your friends and classmates for our 60th Reunion. There’s a bonus for those alumni who attend the reunion: The new Saugus Middle-High School will be open on that Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon. It will be a great opportunity to see the new campus. Saugus High Class of 1980 Reunion is Nov. 29 The 1980 Saugus High Class will observe its 45th Reunion on Saturday, Nov. 29, at the Saugus Elks Hall. Hello everyone. Although our 1980 SHS Class is not merging with any other classes, we wanted to extend the invitation to our friends and family members that would like to join us. I (Pete Nicolo) have several friends that did not APPORTIONMENT OF ESTATE TAXES W here an estate is clearly anticipated to be exempt from federal and Massachusetts estate tax, estate tax apportionment among beneficiaries is simply not significant. However, in estates that are greater than the current federal estate tax threshold of $13,999,000 or are greater than the current Massachusetts estate tax threshold of $2,000,000, but that do not qualify for the marital or charitable deductions, apportionment can significantly affect the beneficiaries of the estate. The federal estate tax exemption will rise to $15million on January 1, 2026. The estate tax clause can affect the economic interests of those who are to receive your probate and nonprobate property. If, for example, all estate taxes resulting from your death are to be paid out of the residue of your probate estate, then those individuals who take property outside of your Will (for example via life insurance, jointly held property, beneficiary of IRA account), or by a nonresiduary testamentary bequest or devise (for example, a specific bequest of personal property or a specific devise of real estate) may be advantaged at the expense of your beneficiaries who take under the residuary clause. You should be aware of the effect a particular tax clause in your Will would have on your estate plan’s dispositive scheme and you should be aware of what the alternatives are insofar as allocating the estate tax burden is concerned. Absent a contrary provision ample, or the recipients of life insurance or pension benefits are not expected to contribute to the estate taxes, either because the amount passing to them is small in comparison to the residuary legatees or they are preferred beneficiaries, an estate tax clause allocating all estate taxes to the residue is necessary. 3. Where a residue clause in your Will, federal and Massachusetts estate taxes will be apportioned pursuant to Mass General Laws, Chapter 65C and Chapter 190B, Article III, Section 3-916. Collateral provisions of the Internal Revenue Code (Sections 2206, 2207(A) and 2603(b) generally consistent with Massachusetts law, also apply. The general scheme is that all estate taxes on probate property are payable from the residue, and estate taxes on nonprobate property are allocated to the recipients of such property. All Wills should contain carefully drafted estate tax clauses. This is particularly important in the following circumstances: 1. Where specific bequests carry a substantial portion of the estate value, would it be fair for the residuary legatees to pay a portion of the estate taxes allocable to the specific bequests? If not, an estate tax clause allocating a proportionate estate tax burden to the specific bequests is required. 2. Where it is desired that the surviving joint owners of bank accounts, for exbequeaths a share to an otherwise tax-exempt beneficiary, such as a surviving spouse or public charity, the shares of these beneficiaries should be exempted from contributing to the estate taxes. Otherwise, the deduction for the bequest to the surviving spouse or the public charity will be reduced, thus serving to increase the estate taxes paid. Estate tax clauses should also be included in estate planning trusts when more complicated estates are involved. Remember, many assets are included in your “taxable” estate upon your death but yet would not constitute part of your “probate” estate. Assets in your taxable estate would include life insurance death benefits, jointly held assets, assets housed in living trusts, IRA accounts, pension plans, annuities, etc. Your Will only speaks upon your death and only affects property held by you in your individual name at the time of your death. Joseph D. Cataldo is an estate planning/elder law attorney, Certified Public Accountant, Certified Financial Planner, AICPA Personal Financial Specialist and holds a masters degree in taxation. ART AT THE LIBRARY: Now on display in the First Floor Reading Room: holiday, abstract and floral paintings shared with the Library and its patrons – original works by Marie Floramo of Saugus. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) graduate in our year (1980) that will be attending. Most of us have kept in touch with some of our classmates / friends throughout the years. But what about the classmates / friends that you would love to see and have not seen in decades? I’ve recently reconnected with a couple of Classmates that I really hung out with and had a lot of laughs with in High School – hadn’t seen them in over 40 years. It has been quite a wonderful experience for me to reconnect with them. This is an opportunity to reconnect or simply have some laughs with old friends. Come see your SHS friends and be a part of making this a memorable event. We expect a good turnout – you’ll have a Blast! Some of the people we have sent / extended the invitation to are: • Invites were extended to our entire 1980 Saugus High Class (over 90% of 1980 Classmates contacted – including Classmates living overseas) • Saugus Jr. High Classmates that left and graduated from other High Schools • Saugus High family members (1 Classmate has 2 sisters that graduated a couple of years earlier and later) • Saugus High School teachers and coaches attending (Babcock, Volpe, Melvin, Ward and others) – please feel free to reach out / THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 21 ~ School Bus Drivers Wanted ~ 7D Licensed School Bus Drivers Malden Trans is looking for reliable drivers for the new school year. We provide ongoing training and support for licensing requirements. Applicant preferably lives local (Malden, Everett, Revere). Part-time positions available and based on AM & PM school hours....15-30 hours per week. Good driver history from Registry a MUST! If interested, please call David @ 781-322-9401. CDL SCHOOL BUS DRIVER WANTED Compensation: $28/hour School bus transportation company seeking active CDL drivers who live LOCALLY (Malden, Everett, Chelsea and immediate surrounding communities). - Applicant MUST have BOTH S and P endorsements as well as Massachusetts school bus certificate. Good driver history from Registry a MUST! - Part-time hours, BUT GUARANTEED 20-35 HOURS PER WEEK depending on experience. Contact David @ 781-322-9401.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Page 17 Beacon Hill Roll Call Volume 50 -Report No. 46 November 10-14, 2025 Copyright © 2025 Beacon Hill Roll Call. All Rights Reserved. By Bob Katzen T HE HOUSE AND SENATE: Beacon Hill Roll Call records local senators’ votes on roll calls from the week of November 10-14. There were no roll calls in the House last week. DIGITAL AND PRINT MATERIALS IN LIBRARIES (S 2710) Senate 37-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that would establish a commission to study the challenges public libraries face with digital resources, including costs, access, privacy and licensing differences between digital and print materials. The commission would be required to submit a report with recommendations to improve digital resource sustainability, protect patron data and ensure equitable access across the state. “E-books, audio books and other digital resources are increasingly in demand by the public, but providing these resources is cost prohibitive for libraries and often come with unwieldy sets of restrictions,” said sponsor Sen. Michael Moore (D-Millbury). “The commission established by this bill will help streamline the process for libraries to license books and other digital materials, expanding access to knowledge to more Bay Staters.” (A “Yes” vote is for the bill.) Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes PROTECT ALL PUBLIC TRANSIT WORKERS FROM ASSAULT AND BATTERY (S 2697) Senate 38-0, approved legislation that would expand the current law which punishes anyone who commits assault and battery against a public employee. The bill ensures that all transit workers are covered, including those who are not directly employed by the state, such as workers employed by Keolis, the state’s contracted commuter rail operator. The bill would also add “assault and battery by means of a bodily substance including saliva, blood or urine” to the current law. “Transit workers are among the most essential employees of our commonwealth, carrying out the steady and often unseen work that allows tens of thousands of people to travel safely and reliably each day,” said sponsor Sen. Nick Collins (D-South Boston). “Their commitment keeps our cities moving, even under challenging and unpredictable circumstances. When the rights and safety of these workers are impinged upon, it is an aff ront to the invaluable service they provide and the trust the public places in them.” Collins continued, “We must remain vigilant in safeguarding their wellbeing, as they encounter nearly every facet of public life in this line of work. Legislation like this, which strengthens protections and expands the defi nition of what constitutes an assault against a transit worker, sends a clear message that we do not take their hard work for granted and that we stand fi rmly behind those who keep our commonwealth connected.” The House already approved a diff erent version of the measure, and the Senate version now goes to the House for consideration. (A “Yes” vote is for the bill.) Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes BANNING SCHOOL LIBRARY BOOKS AND MATERIALS (S 2696) Senate 35-3, approved and sent to the House a bill that supporters said would require that school library materials be age-appropriate, serve an educational purpose and be chosen based on a teacher or employee’s professional training— leaving aside personal, political or doctrinal views which could aff ect their decision to place the book on the shelf. Supporters noted that the bill would give local school districts and municipal public libraries the fl exibility to craft their own policies that align with state protocols and the standards of the American Library Association. They argued that for school libraries, an appropriate process for considering whether to remove a book would include assurance that a challenged book remains available to library patrons while the process plays out, guarding against frivolous or unfounded complaints. They said the bill would protect librarians and school employees from retaliation over their selection of library books, ensuring that they do not suffer professional, civil or criminal penalties if they have acted in good faith and followed their library materials policy. “I am thrilled that the Senate has taken decisive bipartisan action to push back against cowardly attempts to ban books in our schools and public libraries,” said Sen. Julian Cyr (D-Truro), the lead sponsor of the bill.“Massachusetts is not immune from the un-American panic gripping the nation in recent years. Today, the Senate defends the right to read and ensures that decisions about library materials are made by trained professionals, not political actors. This bill is about protecting the people who make our libraries and schools places of discovery, inclusion and belonging.” “I’m proud to stand with my Senate colleagues today in support of this bipartisan bill to protect values we hold so dear: the freedom to create, to think for one’s self, to explore ourselves and our world through books and art and pass the legacy of free expression to our children and grandchildren,” said Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland). “This bill is just one of many that the Senate is prioritizing and passing this session as part of our Response 2025 initiative to protect our residents, defend our values and lead Massachusetts during these dark days when our basic civil and constitutional rights are under constant attack.” “I don’t believe in restricting knowledge, as long as it’s age appropriate, and believe in setting up a process where adults can deliberate on the appropriateness,” said Sen. Ryan Fattman (R-Sutton), one of three senators who voted against the bill. “The Senate’s final version of the bill restricts parental notifi cations and involvement, diminishes the school committee as the ultimate authority of BEACON | SEE PAGE 18 Say nr Sa a y Senior Seni by Jim Miller Best Online Will Makers Dear Savvy Senior, Can you recommend some good online resources for writing a simple will? I’m 70 and divorced and want to get my affairs organized, but I hate paying a high-priced attorney fee if I can do it myself. Don’t Have Much Dear Don’t, Having a last will and testament is an important document to have because it ensures that your money and property will be distributed to the people you want to receive it after your death. Currently, fewer than one-third of American adults have prepared a will. If you die without a will, your estate will be settled in accordance with state law. Details vary by state, but assets typically are distributed using a hierarchy of survivors. Assets go fi rst to a spouse, then to children, then your siblings, and so on. You also need to be aware that certain accounts take precedence over a will. If you jointly own a home or a bank account, for example, the house, and the funds in the account, will go to the joint holder, even if your will directs otherwise. Similarly, retirement accounts and life insurance policies are distributed to the beneficiaries you designate, so it is important to keep them up to date too. Online Will Makers If you have a simple, straightforward estate and an uncomplicated family situation, writing your own will – with the help of a good online will making program – is a viable alternative to hiring an attorney and much cheaper. Like tax software, these online tools will guide you through a series of questions and will insert your answers into a will for you, and it usually takes less than 30 minutes from start to fi nish. Some of the highest-rated do-it-yourself options include the Quicken WillMaker & Trust 2025 downloadable software (WillMaker.com) that starts at $109 and is valid in every state except Louisiana; Trust & Will (TrustandWill.com) which charges $199 for an individual will-based estate plan; and LegalZoom (LegalZoom.com), which off ers will-based estate plans for $129 or $149 if you’d like assistance from an independent attorney. Or, if that’s more than you’re able or willing to pay, two good options that will let you make your will for free are FreeWill. com or DoYourOwnWill.com. When to Hire a Lawyer If you have considerable fi - nancial assets or a complex family situation, like a blended family or a child with special needs, it would be smart for you to seek professional advice. An experienced lawyer can make sure you cover all your bases, which can help avoid family confusion and squabbles after you’re gone. The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA.org) and the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (NAEPC.org) websites are good resources that have directories to help you fi nd someone in your area. Costs will vary depending on your location and the complexity of your situation, but you can expect to pay somewhere between $200 and $1,000 to get your will made. To help you save, shop around and get price quotes from several diff erent fi rms. And before you meet with an attorney, make a detailed list of your assets and accounts to help make your visit more effi cient. Where to Store it? Once your will is written, the best place to keep it is either in a fi reproof safe or fi le cabinet at home, in a safe deposit box in your bank or online. But make sure your executor knows where it is and has access to it. Or, if a professional prepares your will, keep the original document at your lawyer’s offi ce. Also, be sure to update your will if your family or fi nancial circumstances change, or if you move to another state. Send your questions or comments to questions@savvysenior.org, or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070. nior ior

Page 18 BEACON | FROM PAGE 17 school policy and will certainly lead to increased legal costs for school districts. It is essential that school committees retain the authority to make final determinations—by vote—on whether challenged materials should remain in or be removed from school library collections. If parents or students disagree with a school committee’s decision, the appropriate recourse should be through democratic engagement—by advocating for, electing or re-electing school committee members and officials who reflect their educational values, and not through costly and complex litigation.” “We strongly oppose [the bill] because it would keep vulgar and sexually explicit books on public school library shelves, where minors can easily access them,” said Michael King, President of Massachusetts Family Institute. “The bill strips local school committees of their ability to protect students and would expose districts to lawsuits simply for doing what parents reasonably expect — keeping children safe. This is not about ‘banning books.’ It’s about safeguarding childhood innocence, respecting parental rights and preserving local control.” (A “Yes” vote is for the bill. A “No” vote is against it.) Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes AUTHORS AND CREATORS CAN CHALLENGE A SCHOOL BOARD’S DECISION (S 2696) Senate 37-0, approved an amendment to the section of the bill that gives students, parents and guardians the legal right to challenge a school board’s decisions to remove materials from a school library. The amendment extends that right to the authors and creators and also creates a right for residents, authors and creators to go to court to challenge the removal. “I filed this amendment because authors deserve the right to defend both their livelihoods and their freedom of expression when their work is removed from libraries,” said amendment sponsor Sen. Cindy Creem (D-Newton). “Book bans suppress voices, erase perspectives and ultimately undermine our democracy, which relies on open access to ideas. By allowing creators to challenge these removals in court, we strengthen the bill’s protections for free expression and ensure that those most directly harmed have a path to justice.” Creem continued, “This issue is personal to me as my son-inlaw, Rob Sharenow, is the author of ‘The Berlin Boxing Club,’ an award-winning novel that was banned for featuring a minor, but historically accurate, transgender character. Freedom of expression should be an unmovable cornerstone of our democracy.” (A “Yes” vote is for the amendment.) Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes 90-DAY TIME PERIOD (S 2696) Senate 7-30, rejected an amendment that would have implemented a 90-day time period for a determination on whether challenged material in school libraries is devoid of any educational, literary, artistic, personal or social value, or is not age appropriate. As written, the bill itself does not include a time period for a determination. “If a parent has a concern about whether a book being taught to their child is age appropriate, that is not a concern that should be allowed to linger,” said Sen. Michael Moore (D-Millbury). “The timeframe … would set guidelines to help push officials to determine whether a book is appropriate within a reasonable period – quickly eliminating any uncertainty for students, parents and teachers.” Sen. Jake Oliveira (D-Ludlow) said he voted against the amendment because it is an administrative redundancy. He noted that all policies adopted by school committees are adopted in accordance with the guidelines set by the Massachusetts General Laws, which are reviewed by the school committees when adopting policies. He said there was no need to add another administrative burden. Sen. Peter Durant (R-Spencer), the sponsor of the amendment, did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking him to comment on the defeat of his amendment. Sen. Julian Cyr (D-Truro), the lead sponsor of the underlying bill, did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking him to comment on this amendment. (A “Yes” vote is for the amendment. A “No” vote is against it.) Sen. Brendan Crighton No THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 ALSO UP ON BEACON HILL SUICIDE AWARENESS AND REMEMBRANCE DAY (H 3388) – The House and Senate approved and sent to Gov. Maura Healey a bill that would establish September 22nd as Military Service Members and Veterans Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Day. The day would acknowledge that suicide is an epidemic among service members and veterans and would foster awareness and call for suicide prevention measures and support. “We brought forward this veteran suicide remembrance and awareness bill in direct response to the tragedies that have left holes in the fabric of our communities and in order to build awareness to prevent future tragedy,” said sponsor Rep. Joan Meschino (D-Hull). “[The bill] is an important step in offering support to both our active service members and veterans.” INFLAMMATORY BREAST CANCER (H 2489) – The House gave initial approval to legislation, known as Marnie’s Law, which would integrate Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) education into the undergraduate curriculum of all approved nursing programs in the state. IBC is a rare and aggressive form of invasive breast cancer that often presents itself as swelling or redness of the breast, as opposed to a lump that is typically associated with breast cancer. Marnie’s Law is named after 37-year-old Marnie Elizabeth Cass Robidas who died from IBC in 2022. Supporters said that IBC is challenging for medical providers to diagnose. They noted that the inclusion of IBC training will effectively improve patient outcomes by reducing the chance of misdiagnoses, ultimately saving countless lives. ”My family was affected by IBC, and when I learned from working with Marnie’s Army and [co-sponsor] Rep. Diggs that its symptoms weren’t taught in nursing education, I was inspired to join their effort to save women’s lives,” said co-sponsor Rep. Hadley Luddy (D-Orleans). Marnie’s Army is a group, named after Marnie, which raises awareness of the disease and raises money for research and education on the illness at Boston’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. “I filed this bill because inflammatory breast cancer is one of the most aggressive and least understood forms of breast cancer, and too many patients lose precious time due to delayed or incorrect diagnosis,” said co-sponsor Rep. Kip Diggs (D-Barnstable). “By ensuring that every nursing student in Massachusetts is trained to recognize the signs of IBC, we are strengthening early detection and saving lives. Marnie’s Law is about awareness, compassion and giving our future nurses the tools they need to protect patients and families across the commonwealth.” PROMOTE URBAN AGRICULTURE AND HORTICULTURE (H3130) – The House gave initial approval to legislation aimed at promoting urban agriculture and horticulture by allowing cities with a population greater than 50,000 and all Gateway Cities to exempt property taxes for land used for commercial urban agriculture. The tax incentive applies to only the portion of land on a parcel being used for agriculture and only applies to portions that are two acres or less. Additionally, the parcel must have had at least $500 in gross sales of agricultural or horticultural products to be eligible for the tax incentive. “We filed this bill to support small-scale urban agriculture, which strengthens local food systems, improves environmental health and promotes local economic development,” said co-sponsors Reps. Hannah Kane (R-Shrewsbury) and Vanna Howard (D-Lowell), in a joint statement. “This bill allows cities to incentivize urban agriculture and gain these benefits through a property tax exemption.” COMMISSION ON LGBTQ AGING (S 2711) – The Senate approved and sent to the House a proposal that would replace the name of the current “Commission on Older Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Aging” (LGBT) with “LGBTQ” (the Q represents queer and questioning). The measure also adds four more seats to the commission -one each appointed by the Senate President, Senate Minority Leader, Speaker of the House and House Minority Leader. The commission was created to enhance the quality of life for LGBTQ older adults in the Bay State through state policy and program recommendations, collaborations, partnerships and advocacy. The bill also replaces several other terms in the language that created the commission including replacing “elders” with “older adults” and ”Elder Affairs” with “Aging and Independence.” Sponsor Sen. Pat Jehlen (D-Somerville) said she filed the bill after the commission’s current membership agreed that it was timely and appropriate to reflect the more inclusive terminology for the communities represented by the commission, along with name changes of numerous member offices and organizations over the course of the commission’s existence. DENIAL OF RIGHTS AND SERVICES TO DISABLED PERSONS (S 2714) – A bill before the Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities would create a special commission to study the denial of rights and services of disabled persons. The commission would be required to submit a report on the volume of disability rights denial cases submitted and their impact on the disability community, the effectiveness of the enforcement of disability rights in the state within the last five years and education of disability rights awareness. Another report would also be required to be submitted to the Legislature with recommendations, including proposed legislation or regulations. “Discrimination has no place in Massachusetts, regardless of background or ability,” said sponsor Sen. Joan Lovely (D-Salem). “As we examine the best way to support our disabled population, it is imperative that we are armed with the best information and best recommendations from a broad array of stakeholders, from lawmakers to experts to advocates and, most importantly, those with lived experiences. I am hopeful that this commission and its recommendations will lead to lasting, impactful change for those with service animals.” QUOTABLE QUOTES “We unleashed an industry that now promotes betting on anything and everything imaginable and unimaginable all over the world, 24 hours a day, every single day. I want to publicly apologize to those who’ve lost the opportunity to sit and watch a game just for the enjoyment of the game. I want to apologize to those who find BEACON | SEE PAGE 19

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Page 19 OBITUARIES Alice M. (Coccia) White S augus, formerly of Everett- Mrs. Alice M. (Coccia) White, age 74, died on Monday, November 17th. She was the wife of the late John E. White. Born and raised in Everett, Mrs. White was the daughter of the late John and Alice (Danton) Coccia. Alice worked as a nurse’s aide at a long-term care facility. She loved learning new technology and was fond of animals. She also enjoyed time spent running a little jewelry busiBEACON | FROM PAGE 18 themselves in the dark spaces of betting addiction and to those working through recovery and to their families and friends. I want to apologize to those who have lost loved ones to suicide because of gambling issues.” ---Sen. John Keenan (D-Quincy) apologizing for his 2022 vote to legalize sports betting in the Bay State. Keenan was testifying in favor of his current bill (S 302) that would place guardrails on sports betting to address the harm that can come with wagering. “If a toy breaks, we know it right away. But if a toy contains toxics such as lead or phthalates, or a chatbot interacts with our child in a way we don’t approve of, we don’t necessarily know. The scariest part is that we can’t actually see all the dangers a toy might pose. That’s deeply troubling.” ---Teresa Murray, Consumer Watchdog Director for U.S. PIRG Education Fund and co-author of a new report, “Trouble in Toyland,” which charges that toys that are powered by artificial intelligence often say inappropriate things to children, and toys, bought online and shipped from overseas, too often conness with one of her friends. Mrs. White is survived by tain toxic substances. “The federal government’s actions have created a massive thunderstorm of pain and suffering for Massachusetts, and the government shutdown was just the start. This is a time for moral outrage, and a time for action.” ---Cindy Rowe, a member of the Raise Up Massachusetts Steering Committee, urging the Legislatureto use $1.3 billion from the state’s $8.6 billion Rainy Day Fund and to raise additional new revenue by combatting the offshore tax dodging of billionaire global corporations, so that Massachusetts can prevent the worst harm from federal cuts to SNAP, Medicaid, education funding and other critical programs. “For years, we’ve warned that Massachusetts’ rigid and aggressive climate laws were setting the state up for unaffordable energy costs and unreliable power. This proposal shows that even on Beacon Hill, among the very same lawmakers that rammed the net-zero by 2050 roadmap bill through five years ago, there’s growing recognition that the current approach simply isn’t sustainable.” ---Paul Craney, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance, advocating for pasone son, James White and his wife Analisa of Salem; one daughter, Kimberly Ciulla and her husband Michael of Danvers; three grandchildren, Siena, Marina and Anthony; one brother, Daniel Winsor of Pepperell; and one sister, Laura Winsor of Revere. She was predeceased by her son Michael White and two brothers, Stephen and Johnny Coccia. In lieu of flowers, donations in Alice’s memory may be made to the Northeast Animal Shelter at northeastsage of a bill that would begin to scale back some of what he calls the state’s “out of control, binding net zero energy mandates,” including making the state’s 2030 emissions target advisory rather than legally binding. 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 Novemanimalshelter.org. SERVICE INFORMATION Relatives and friends are invited attend visiting hours in the Bisbee-Porcella Funeral Home, 549 Lincoln Ave., SAUGUS on Friday (11/21) from 4-8 p.m. A funeral will be held from the funeral home on Saturday (11/22) at 9 a.m. followed by a funeral mass in Blessed Sacrament Church, 14 Summer St., Saugus at 10 a.m. Interment in Riverside Cemetery in Saugus. For condolences www. BisbeePorcella.com. ber 10-14, the House met for a total of 37 minutes and the Senate met for a total of seven hours and 24 minutes. Mon. Nov. 10 House11:00 a.m. to 11:16 a.m. Senate 11:18 a.m. to 11:50 a.m. Tues.Nov. 11 No House session. No Senate session. Wed. Nov. 12 House11:01 a.m. to 11:09 No Senate session. Thurs. Nov. 13 House11:01 - LEGAL NOTICE - COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS THE TRIAL COURT PROBATE AND FAMILY COURT Essex Division Docket No. ES25P3207EA Estate of: AMY ELIZABETH SIDERI Also Known As: AMY E. SIDERI; AMY SIDERI Date of Death: September 05, 2025 INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE To all persons interested in the above captioned estate, by Petition of Petitioner Claudia C. Sideri of Saugus, MA a Will has been admitted to informal probate. Claudia C. Sideri of Saugus, MA has been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve without surety on the bond. The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court. Inventory and accounts are not required to be filed with the Court, but interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the Court to institute formal proceedings and to obtain orders terminating or restricting the powers of Personal Representatives appointed under informal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner November 21, 2025 Anthony J. Grasso O f Saugus, formerly of Malden. Died on Sunday, November 9th at the Tufts Medical Center in Boston at the age of 75. He was the husband of the late Mary E. (Maniscalco) Grasso. Born in Revere and raised in Malden, Mr. Grasso was the son of Ellen (Wedge) and the late Anthony R. “Sonny” Grasso of Peabody. Anthony was a finish carpenter and loved to use his hands. He enjoyed cooking and gardenOBITS | SEE PAGE 20 a.m. to 11:13a.m. Senate 11:14 a.m. to6:06p.m. Fri. Nov. 14 No House session. No Senate session. Bob Katzen welcomes feedback at bob@beaconhillrollcall.com Bob founded Beacon Hill Roll Call in 1975 and was inducted into the New England Newspaper and Press Association (NENPA) Hall of Fame in 2019.

Page 20 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS Copyrighted material previously published in Banker & Tradesman/The Commercial Record, a weekly trade newspaper. It is reprinted with permission from the publisher, The Warren Group. For a searchable database of real estate transactions and property information visit: www. thewarrengroup.com. BUYER1 Blake, Dillon E Davis, Charity Gethoktsang, Yangchen T Jean, Chedly Levasseur, Kathryn Mikalixen, Samuel Milton, Leanne A Patel, Avnika Rogers, Lynn BUYER2 Davis, Jesse Jean, Colette Silva, Kevin Mikalixen, Victoria Suresh, Apoorva N Patel, Chandrakant SELLER1 Lacey, Rodica Moraes, Jennifer K Iamelli, Frank Cabral, Colleen Pratt, Sonya E Nascimento, Isac D Eileen M Cianci RET Botch, Mark A Recupero Ft FURNISHED ROOM FOR RENT EVERETT Nascimento, Sibia K Botthof, Kimberly L Rosenblatt, Greg Henry, Josephine OBITS | FROM PAGE 19 ing and loved his cars and detailing them. In addition to his mother, Mr. 1 bedroom, 1 bath furnished room for rent. $275. per week rent. Two week deposit plus 1 week rent required. Call: 617-435-9047 - NO TEXT Grasso is survived by his three sons, Anthony R. Grasso and his wife Caroline of Beverly, Brian Grasso of Fall River and Joseph Grasso and his wife Brittany of Saugus; five grandchildren, Alex, Dominic, Michael, Annemarie and A.J.; three siblings, Ellen Mechionda and her husband Robert of Peabody, Douglas Grasso and his wife Marie of Georgetown and Donna Bacigalupo and her husband Thomas of Lynnfield; and his sisters-in-law, Helen Earley of Sharon and Trudy Grasso of Lynnfield. He was predeceased by his brother Steven Grasso. Relatives and friends were 1. On Nov. 21, 1964, what NYC bridge that had a typo in its name opened? 2. How are baloney, magenta and sardines similar? 3. Reportedly, how many days did the first Thanksgiving last: one, two or three? 4. On Nov. 22, 1968, what group released the song “Honey Pie” on a double album? 5. Who wrote the poem “My November Guest” and is the namesake of a Vermont mountain? 6. In which state is pumpkin the state pie: Illinois, Massachusetts or New Hampshire? 7. On Nov. 23, Maryland’s Frederick County marks Repudiation Day (of what Act of 1765)? 8. Reportedly, having too much of what frozen meat caused TV dinners’ invention? 9. What president known by his initials said, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them”? 10. On Nov. 24, 1877, Anna Sewell published what first children’s animal novel? 11. Where were turkeys first domesticated: Mexico, Spain or USA? 12. In 1896 in what NY State city with the name of an animal was the first-ever Turkey Trot? 13. In 1926 what president received a live raccoon for Thanksgiving that became a pet? 14. On Nov. 25, 1914, what baseball player was born who is in the SELLER2 ADDRESS 59 Denver St #7 26 Spencer Ave 4 Cheever Ave 16 Austin Ct #D 49 David Dr 470 Central St 1607 Lewis O Gray Dr #1607 1203 Sheffield Way #1203 46 Staaf Rd CITY Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus DATE 10.27.25 10.24.25 10.30.25 10.29.25 10.30.25 10.31.25 10.30.25 10.28.25 10.28.25 O invited to attend visitation in the Bisbee-Porcella Funeral Home, Saugus on Friday, November 14 followed by a funeral service in the funeral home. Interment in Puritan Lawn Memorial Park in Peabody. lyrics of the 1990 “Vogue” song? 15. What three commercial fruits are native only to this continent? 16. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade used balloons to replace what? 17. On Nov. 26, 1942, what World War II film with the song “As Time Goes By” premiered? 18. Where is pecan the state tree: Alabama, Louisiana or Texas? 19. Why did President Thomas Jefferson refuse to proclaim days of thanksgiving or fasting? 20. On Nov. 27, 1942, what guitarist was born who played “The Star-Spangled Banner” at Woodstock? PRICE 500000 750000 1150000 320000 860000 682000 575000 550000 469000 Thomas P. Donahue f Saugus. Died on Saturday, November 15th at the Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers at the age of 66. He was the beloved husband of Jill (Richardson) Donahue with whom he shared 48 years of marriage. Born in Everett and raised in Malden, Mr. Donahue was the son of the late Gerald F. and Gail (MacKenzie) Donahue. A resident of Saugus for the past 12 years, previously living in Melrose, Thomas was a member of the Saugus-Everett Elks. In addition to his wife, Mr. Donahue is survived by one son, Thomas M. Donahue of TX; three daughters, Dawn Hogan of Saugus, Amy Donahue of OBITS | SEE PAGE 21 ANSWERS 1. Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge (originally spelled with only one “z” [rectified in 2018]) 2. Named after Bologna, Magenta and Sardinia — all places in Italy 3. Three 4. The Beatles (on ”The White Album”) 5. Robert Frost 6. Illinois (Pumpkin is the NH state fruit.) 7. The British Stamp Act forcing a tax to cover the cost of troops (the county’s judges were the first to decide against it) 8. Turkey (Swanson’s unsold turkeys after the 1953 Thanksgiving) 9. John F. Kennedy 10. “Black Beauty” 11. Mexico 12. Buffalo (“the oldest consecutively run footrace in the ENTIRE WORLD!”) 13. Calvin Coolidge 14. Joe DiMaggio 15. Blueberries, Concord grapes and cranberries 16. Zoo animals 17. “Casablanca” 18. Texas

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Page 21 OBITS | FROM PAGE 20 NH and Jacqueline Donahue of ME; six grandchildren, Kaden, Anna, Abigail, Tyler, Emma and Hunter; five brothers, Gerald Donahue of TN, John Donahue of KS, James Donahue of NH, Robert Donahue of Everett and David Donahue of Peabody; and one sister, Kathy Lakos of NH. He was predeceased by one sister, Gail Donahue. SERVICE INFORMATION Relatives and friends were invited to attend visiting hours in the Bisbee-Porcella Funeral Home, Saugus on Thursday from 4-7 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday from SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 16 invite your favorite teachers that you may keep in touch with and want to see there • People move, addresses change, friends from other classes may want to attend – please help us extend our invitation to them. • If you are one of our classmates that hasn’t attended in a long while, you are the people we look forward to seeing. Long Lost Friends! There already appears to be much interest in this event. Make checks ($45 per person) payable to: Pete Nicolo - 15 Tilden Lane, York, Maine 03909 or Venmo: Pete Nicolo@Pete-Nicolo Any questions, please feel free to reach out to: Andrea Saunders (1980 Class President) or Pete Nicolo (Class 1980) at: Andrea Saunders: PaulGreens@ aol.com or 978-482-5787. Peter Nicolo: Peter.S.Nicolo@ RTX.com or 978-815-8234 (new email address). About The Saugus Advocate We welcome press releases, news announcements, freelance articles and courtesy photos from the community. Our deadline is 6 p.m. on Tuesday. If you have a story idea, an article or a photo to submit, please email me at mvoge@comcast.net or leave a message at 978-683-7773. Or send your press release to me in the mail at PO Box 485, North Andover, MA 01845. Let us become your hometown newspaper. The Saugus Advocate is available in the Saugus Public Library, the Saugus Senior Center, Saugus Town Hall, local convenience stores and restaurants throughout town. Carpentry * Kitchen & Bath * Roofs * Painting Decks * Siding * Carrijohomeimprovement.com Call 781-710-8918 * Saugus, MA General Contractor * Interior & Exterior The Kid Does Clean Outs From 1 item to 1,000 * Basements * Homes * Backyards * Commercial Buildings The cheapest prices around! Call Eric: (857) 322-2854 Frank Berardino MA License 31811 • 24 - Hour Service • Emergency Repairs BERARDINO Plumbing & Heating Residential & Commercial Service Gas Fitting • Drain Service 617.699.9383 Senior Citizen Discount Steps Stoops Rebuilt or Repaired Chimney Rebuilt or Repaired House Foundation Leaks Repaired All Basement Repairs Chimney Inspection Roofing & Siding Masonry Repairs Window Installation & Repairs Drywall & Carpentry Waterproofing 4-6 p.m. with family reflections at 5 p.m. at the Saugus-EverLicensed & Insured ett Elks, 401 Main St., Saugus. In lieu of flowers, donations in Thomas’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org. Clean-Outs! We take and dispose from cellars, attics, garages, yards, etc. Call Robert at: 781-844-0472 Free Estimates American Exterior and Window Corporation Contact us for all of your home improvement projects and necessities. Call Jeff or Bob Toll Free: 1-888-744-1756 617-699-1782 / www.americanexteriorma.com Windows, Siding, Roofing, Carpentry & More! All estimates, consultations or inspections completed by MA licensed supervisors. *Over 50 years experience. *Better Business Bureau Membership. Insured and Registered Complete Financing Available. No Money Down. We follow Social Distancing Guidelines!

Page 22 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, NOVEMbEr 21, 2025 Welcome to Beyond Financing, Inc. Your Local Mortgage Company – Licensed, Trusted, and Here to Serv At Beyond Financing, we believe every dream home deserves more than a loan — it deserves the right program. We specialize in: Home Purchase Loans – First-time buyers, move-up buyers, and second homes Refinancing – Lower your rate, shorten your term, or access your equity Investment Property Financing – From single-family to multi-unit portfolios Self-Employed & Alternative Income Loans – Bank statement, 1099, DSCR programs, and ITIN #s F FHA, VA, USDA, and Conventional Loans Jumbo & Non-QM Solutions for complex income and high-value homes With hundreds of lenders and investors nationwide, we deliver the most competitive options — all under one roof. Whether buying, refinancing, or investing, our Certified Mortgage Advisors guide you beyond rates and paperwork toward true financial freedom. Beyond Financing, Inc. Licensed in CA-CT-FL-MA-NH-NC-RI-SC-TX 999 Broadway, Suite 500-N, Saugus-MA 01906 www.BEYONDFINANCING.COM 857.410.1391 IN CA, CT & MA: Mortgage Broker Only, not a Mortgage Lender or Mortgage Correspondent Lender. In FL, NH, NC, RI, SC & TX: Mortgage Broker and Correspondent Lender. Loans are available fairly and equally regardless of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, military status, disability, or ancestry. ve ! NMLS ID: 2394496

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