SAUGUS Your Local News & Sports Online. Subscribe Here! CAT D Vol. 25, No.48 CAT HONORING A HERO TE -FREE- www.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday 781-233-4446 Friday, December 1, 2023 “You’re an asset to the community” young girl “hero” receives Saugus Police Department’s Life Saving Award for saving mom from choking MOM’S LIFESAVER: Nine-year-old Camila Giron Guardado (left) stands at lectern in second fl oor auditorium at Town Hall last week, where she was honored for saving her mother, Celina Guardado de Giron, from a choking incident. (Courtesy photo by SaugusTV to the Saugus Advocate) By Mark E. Vogler S Nine-year-old Camila Giron Guardado holds the commendation she received from the Board of Selectmen last week after being credited with saving her mom from choking on a chicken bone. The Saugus girl also received the Saugus Police Department Life Saving Award. Please see inside for more photos and story. (Courtesy Photo to The Saugus Advocate) electmen treated nineyear-old Camila Giron Guardado as the guest of honor at their meeting last week. Camila got to bang the gavel to open the meeting. She led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance. Then she was honored as “a hero” for saving her mother from a choking incident. “Tonight, we would like to recognize Camila for her outstanding efforts of bravery, heroism and dealing with a very stressful situation – potentially tragic that not many nine-year-old children would be able to go through,” Saugus Police Chief Michael Ricciardelli said as he presented her with the Police Department’s Life Saving Award. “We’re very proud to have people like her living in our community. And I’m very proud because she actually lives on my street,” the chief said. Chief Ricciardelli told the story of how police received an emergency 911 call from Camila on Nov. 5, stating that her mom was choking and MOM’S LIFESAVER| SEE PAGE 2 MARCHETTI CORP. 5 3 On behalf of the Marchetti Family, have a Safe and Blessed Christmas and Prosperous New Year! DIESEL TRUCK STOP
Page 2 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 Thanksgiving Eve Bar Brawl Saugus Police charge four individuals in Kowloon restaurant fight By Mark E. Vogler T he Saugus police yesterday announced they are charging four people in connection with the Thanksgiving Eve (Nov. 22) bar fight at Kowloon Restaurant. The four individuals identified by police in a press release issued yesterday: · 32-year old Rosaria Sophia McCauly of North Reading will be charged with two counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon (to wit glass bottle) and disorderly conduct. · 19-year-old Arnold John Carey Marujo of Somerville will be charged with procuring liquor to someone less than 21 and disorderly conduct. · 19-year-old Donovan Clark of Lynn will be charged with procuring liquor to someone less than 21, disorderly conduct and assault and battery. · 35-year-old Anthony John Micelli of North Reading – assault and battery and disorderly conduct. “The police report and additional information may be available at Lynn District Court once they have been summoned. The Clerk of Court will have information regarding their appearances,” police said. “Lastly, a secondary report is being prepared and forwarded to the Board of Selectmen regarding the incident, that report is not available at this time.” Last week (Nov. 22) at about 10:30 p.m., Saugus Police responded to a fight in progress at the Kowloon Restaurant. Six Police Officers, who were already working at the restaurant as part of a detail, were quickly alerted and able to deescalate the alterOur 51st Anniversary Dan - 1972 We Sell Cigars & Accessories! ALL MAJOR BRANDS Singles * Tins * Bundles * Boxes * Travel Humidors * Desk Top Humidors * Many Types of Lighters * Ash Trays * Juuls * Vapes * Glass Pipes * Rewards Program * CBD Infused Products * GIFTS UNDER $30 - GIFT CERTIFICATES TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR STOREWIDE PRICE REDUCTIONS! STORE HOURS: Sun. - Wed.: 9AM - 6PM / Thurs. - Sat. 9AM - 7PM The Holiday Season is Here! R.Y.O. TOBACCO & TUBES ON SALE! WE MAKE HOUSE KEYS! -------------------WE HAVE GIFT CARDS! Green Label Cigar Sale! Buy 2 Cigars, Get One FREE! A.B.C. CIGAR 170 REVERE ST., REVERE (781) 289-4959 Chris - 2023 cation. Restaurant management decided to close the bar and restaurant early for the evening. Several young men who were involved in the dispute were detained and questioned by police but were not arrested. The focus at the time was to provide the males needed medical treatment. Although no ar r ests were made, the investigation continued. Police said there might be charges filed against participants in the fight, because one of the people involved used a glass bottle in the fight, which is a felony. “The Kowloon is a family friendly restaurant, unfortunately a few unruly patrons ruined a nice evening for many others,” Saugus Police Chief Michael Ricciardelli said. “A disturbance such as this on Thanksgiving Eve is unacceptable and disgusting.” MOM’S LIFESAVER | FROM PAGE 1 couldn’t breathe. “She did not panic. She maintained complete control of her emotions throughout the length of the 911 call,” the chief noted. “She gave critical updates to our dispatchers, followed the instructions that the dispatchers gave her as well as assisted with the translation to her mom. She speaks a limited amount of English,” Ricciardelli said. Choking on a chicken bone When police arrived at the Saugus Avenue home, Camila came running out of the house to greet the officers and lead them to her mom, Celina Guardado de Giron, who was lying on the kitchen floor, with her head resting on top of a pillow. “With Camila’s help, we were able to sit her up and determined that she had swallowed a piece of chicken bone,” Chief Ricciardelli said. The firefighter EMTs transported Camila’s mom to MelroseWakefield Hospital, where the doctors discovered a small piece of bone that was clogging her airway. Camila received a citation from the Board of Selectmen “for her heroic action during a time of emergency.” “So, Camila, you’re a hero. How do you feel?” Board of Selectmen Chair Debra PanetPolice are still speaking with witnesses and anyone with information is asked to call police. Meanwhile, Board of Selectmen Chair Debra Panetta said she is still awaiting receipt of the police report. “There are videos circulating on social media about the incident that occurred at the Kowloon on Wednesday, November 22, 2023,” Panetta said. “The police are the liquor agents for the Board of Selectmen who are the liquor commissioners, where the Board of Selectmen issue liquor licenses. When we have an incident and violation of the liquor rules and regulations from an establishment, the police provide a separate and specific report to the Board of Selectmen for review. We are expecting this report from the Police Department, and the Board will appropriate action at that time, depending on the findings of the report. ta asked her. “Good,” Camila answered. She then explained how she reacted to the situation after discovering her mom in the kitchen. “She told me to call the police,” the girl said. Then the five selectmen took turns praising Camila for her lifesaving act. “You were very heroic,” Panetta told the girl. “It’s amazing how you went under control that whole time. You must have been scared, too,” she said. Selectman Corinne Riley called her “a brave little girl.” “That was a brave thing to do to stay focused on what you needed to do to help your mom,” Riley said. Selectman Michael Serino said he hopes to have Camila around some day in case he encounters the same situation as her mother. “You’re an asset to the community, and I think some day you might make a great nurse,” Serino said. “That’s a heck of a thing you did,” Selectman Anthony Cogliano said. “You’re a hero and thank you from the Town of Saugus,” he said. Board of Selectmen Vice Chair Jeffrey Cicolini told Camila the entire board was proud of her. “You are an amazing young lady and I’m MOM’S LIFESAVER| SEE PAGE 3
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 Page 3 Come Enjoy A Seriously Fun Holiday Concert with Polymnia Choral Society! F or 70 years, Polymnia Choral Society has been delivering great performances to acknowledge and honor the important times in our lives. Every year people in our area look forward to starting off their holiday season with the Polymnia winter concert. We can promise a fun, festive, and surprising choral concert for your family and friends! On December 2nd, 2023, Polymnia will hold A Seriously Fun Holiday Concert with songs that celebrate the winter holiday season. The concert will feature traditional carols and songs that celebrate diff erent aspects of the holiday season. Feel free to sing along with us as we sing holiday favorites! Please join us on December 2nd and experience this great Polymnia holiday tradition! The concert promises to be a fun time for all ages. It will be held at St. Mary of the Annunciation Church (46 Myrtle St, Melrose, MA) Doors open at 7:00 PM. Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors, $15 students, and $5 for children under 12. We look forward to seeing you there! To purchase tickets for this concert: https://polymnia.org/ about-our-upcoming-season/ For more information about Polymnia: www.polymnia.org/ about 425r Broadway, Saugus A COMMENDATION: Camila Giron Guardado (front row, left), 9, displays the citation she received from the Board of Selectmen for “heroic action during a time of emergency.” Joining the young hero, pictured from left to right: Front row: her mother, Celina Guardado de Giron; Board of Selectmen Chair Debra Panetta; and Saugus Police Offi cer Tom DiPietro; second row: Selectman Corinne Riley, Selectman Michael Serino, Board of Selectmen Vice Chair Jeff rey Cicolini, Selectman Anthony Cogliano and Saugus Police Chief Michael Ricciardelli; back row: Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) MOM’S LIFESAVER | FROM PAGE 2 so excited to know that someone nine years old can be so composed,” Cicolini said. “And you kept your cool and you knew to call and you stayed on the phone. Those are things that are very hard to learn when you’re only nine years old,” Cicolini said. “So, you’re light years ahead of a lot of children, I can tell you that – maybe even some adults. You are a hero and I hope that everybody recognizes that. Congratulations on an amazing job.” Located adjacent to Kohls Plaza Route 1 South in Saugus at the intersection of Walnut Street We are on MBTA Bus Route 429 781-231-1111 We are a Skating Rink with Bowling Alleys, Arcade and two TV’s where the ball games are always on! PUBLIC SKATING SCHEDULE 12-7 p.m. Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday $9.00 Price includes Roller Skates Rollerblades/inline skates $3.00 additional cost Private Parties 7:30-11 p.m. $10.00 Price includes Roller Skates Adult Night 18+ Only Private Parties Private Parties 4-7 p.m. $9.00 12-9 p.m. 7:30-11 p.m. $10. 18+ Adults Only After 7 PM $9.00 Everyone must pay admission after 6 p.m. Sorry No Checks - ATM on site Roller skate rentals included in all prices Inline Skate Rentals $3.00 additional BIRTHDAY & PRIVATE PARTIES AVAILABLE www.roller-world.com
Page 4 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 “Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festivities” kicks off holiday season tonight By Mark E. Vogler T he town’s offi cial Christmas tree, which grows in the monument rotary of Saugus Center, got decorated with big red bows this week, in preparation for the town’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festivities scheduled for tonight (Friday, Dec. 1). Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree calls it one of the community’s “most beloved events” and estimates that it 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 draws in a crowd of 2,000 to 3,000 people on the fi rst Friday of December. “Please join your family and friends and come out to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season as a community,” said Town Manager Crabtree. “This is one of our Town’s most unforgettable annual events, so I hope to see you all there.” Residents young and old are invited to Town Hall today (Friday, Dec. 1) from 5 to 8 p.m. for a fun-fi lled evening with Santa, sleigh rides, a petting zoo, a moon bounce, hot chocolate, cookies, entertainment, horse-drawn hay rides and much more. The Town is also excited for the return of holiday trackless train rides, which will run weather permitting. But the main event gets underway at 7 p.m., when Santa Claus arrives shortly before the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Then he will spend about an hour accommodating a long line of children and grown-ups who want to share a photo opportunity with him. “Each year the Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festivities is bigger and more magical than ever, thanks to countless hours of preparation and setup by volunteers, the Department of Youth and Recreation, the Department of Public Works, the Building Maintenance Department, and numerous other municipal employees,” Crabtree said in a press release issued this week. “This beloved event would also not be possible without CHRISTMAS TREE | SEE PAGE 5 READY TO LIGHT UP: The Town of Saugus’ offi cial holiday tree awaits the town’s Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festivities tonight. (Saugus Advocate fi le photo by Mark E. Vogler) SABATINO 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 PHONE: (617) 387-7466 FAX: (617) 381-9186 Visit us online at: WWW.SABATINO-INS.COM
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 ~ The Old Sachem ~ Page 5 The Sachems in the 1960s By Bill Stewart T he 1960s belong to the ice hockey team. The Sachems in 1961 won 7, tied 2 and lost 3. Tim Churchard and Buzzy Maxwell were stars of the league. In 1964, the hockey team won 8, lost 4 and tied 2. Players included Jeff Sanborn, Jim Patch, Rich Serino and Don Shell. In 1965 the team won 12 and lost 2. Players included Jeff Sanborn, Captain Jim Patch, Bob Heff ernan, Rich Serino and Don Shell. The 1966 team went 10-4-1 with Jim Blanchard, Rich Serino, Christie Serino, Charlie Bilton and Bruce Maxwell. In 1967, they won 11, lost 5 and tied 1. The stars were Charlie Bilton, Bruce Maxwell, Jim Blanchard and Chris CHRISTMAS TREE | FROM PAGE 4 the continued support and generosity from residents and local businesses,” he said. For more information, contact the Town Manager’s Offi ce at 781-231-4111. The Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festivities anchors a weekend fi lled with holiday activities in Saugus. Tomorrow (Saturday, Dec. 2), the Belmonte STEAM Academy PTO hosts the 2023 Belmonte Holiday Stroll at 10 a.m. in the Belmonte STEAM Academy Gymnasium at 25 Dow St. This year’s stroll features more than 40 unique and talented crafters, consultants and “KIDpreneurs.” Shoppers can also check out the elementary school talent show. This is a family-fun event. Also tomorrow (Saturday, Dec. 2), St. John’s Episcopal Church holds its fi rst Annual Christmas Fair and crafts tables, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The church had a fall fair for decades. But this year, church offi cials decided to move the fair to December and have a Christmas Fair with craft tables. There will be a yard sale and snack bar downstairs. There will be vendor and craft tables with baked goods, candy, cards, jewelry, basket raffl es and more. For more information, please check StJohnsSaugus.org or call 781233-1242. Saugus residents who want to get into the holiday spirit while celebrating a noble cause should make plans for Serino. In 1968 the team won 8, lost 6, and tied 2. The players were Mark Salsman, Jim Blanchard, Mike O’Hearn, George Lasquade and Dick Spence. In 1969 the team won 11, lost 4 and tied 1. The stars were Gary Munsen, George Lasquade, Captain Dan Heaney and Captain Bill Babcock. The 1963 track and cross-country team beat Gloucester 21-42, Peabody 18-45, St. Mary’s 27-28, Peabody again, 23-32, and Lynn English 19-36. In 1966 the cross-country team was undefeated in league play, and in the Yankee Conference Varsity Meet, the Sachems took 7 of the 10 places. They beat Bishop Fenwick 16-39, Lynn Trade 20-35, Lynn Classical 20-35, St. attending the Moms Cancer Fighting Angels 4th Annual Christmas party–themed fundraiser event tomorrow (Saturday, Dec. 2) from 5 to 8 p.m. at Fuddruckers on Route 1 North in Saugus. The event will feature an ugly sweater contest, the 105.7 WROR Street Team over budget monster trucks, Christmas Carols with the Saugus High School Acapella Group and Lynn’s All City Band. Meteorologist Pete Bouchard from NBC 10 will read “The Night Before Christmas” to the children. Massachusetts Pink Patch Cruisers will accompany Santa’s sleigh Mary’s 15-40 and Peabody 1540. The team included Charles Lang, Gorge Teehan, captain Phillip Georgetti, Francis Jensen, Frederick Flammia, William Underhill, Albert Pulver, Dennis Murray and Thomas Dewing. The 1967 cross-country team won all 8 meets. Runners were Pulver, Lang, Jensen, Flammia, Teehan, Underhill and newcomer Richard Loiselle. In 1968 the team won 8, lost 6 and tied 2. And in 1969 the team won 4 and lost 4, but won the East Boston Road Race and a VFW Race. The 1965 basketball team went 10-7-1 behind Alex Winn. The 66 team was 12 and 6 and the 69 team was 15 and 4. Among the players were Bob Osgood, Dan Swanson, captain Robert Gontarz and Steve Lanney. The 1969 football team rewith bright lights and music as well as the big man himself – Santa – and Friends. There will also be raffl es and 50/50. Fuddruckers will generously donate 20 percent of sales to the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Wakefi eld during the event. We also ask that you consider bringing a new unwrapped toy for The Salvation Army’s Santa. Editor’s Note: If you know of any holiday events planned for this month and want to let the community know about them, please email the event information to mvoge@comcast.net. corded 7 wins and 2 losses. The losses were t0 Class A Champion Peabody and Class B Champion Swampscott. Bob Osgood, Bill Eichel and Steve Nelson were Northeastern Conference All-Stars. The 1969 Gymnastics team scores were Saugus 94.35, North Reading 94.36, Saugus 87.55, Masconomet 78.0, Saugus 87.5, Winthrop 93.0, Saugus 84.0, Timberlane 76.0, Saugus 84.15, North Reading 85.6, Saugus 84.4, Winthrop 89.4, Saugus 88.7, Masconomet 72.0, Saugus 94.0 and Tewksbury 82.0. Outstanding gymnasts were captains Phil Aubrey and Greg Dugas, who placed in the State Meet. (Editor’s Note: Bill Stewart, who is better known to Saugus Advocate readers as “The “The Old Sachem,” Bill Stewart (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Joanie Allbee) Old Sachem,” writes a weekly column about sports – and sometimes he opines on current or historical events or famous people.)
Page 6 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 8 Norwood St. Everett (617) 387-9810 Open Daily 4:00 PM Closed Sunday Starting Monday, September 11... We’re back to serving our Full Menu featuring all your favorite Italian Specialties and American Classics! Catch ALL The Live Sports Action On Our Large Screen TV’s www.eight10barandgrille.com RON’S OIL Call For PRICE MELROSE, MA 02176 NEW CUSTOMER’S WELCOME ACCEPTING VISA, MASTERCARD & DISCOVER (781) 397-1930 OR (781) 662-8884 100 GALLON MINIMUM Need a hall for your special event? The Schiavo Club, located at 71 Tileston Street, Everett is available for your Birthdays, Anniversaries, Sweet 16 parties and more? For more info, call (857) 249-7882 JOHN MACKEY & ASSOCIATES ~ Attorneys at Law ~ * PERSONAL INJURY * REAL ESTATE * FAMILY LAW * PERSONAL BANKRUPTCY * LANDLORD/TENANT DISPUTES 14 Norwood Street Everett, MA 02149 Phone: (617) 387-4900 Fax: (617) 381-1755 WWW.JMACKEYLAW.COM A BIZARRE CRASH: These two demolished cars wound up inside the vacant Boston Market on Route One North in Saugus after the driver of a Volvo SUV struck a parked car. (Courtesy photo of Saugus Police Chief Michael Ricciardelli) A 62-year-old man faces multiple charges after crashing into an unoccupied parked Prius sedan and causing both vehicles to roll over into the vacant Boston Market along the northbound stretch of Route One. Police said Tuesday that the driver of a Volvo SUV is set to be charged with negligent operation of a motor vehicle, operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license, operating an unregistered motor vehicle and possession of a Class A substance. Investigators said they believe that the substance is either fentanyl or heroin. Police believe the man might have lost control of his Volvo SUV and crashed into the unoccupied sedan in front of the shuttered restaurant. The cause of the crash remains under investigation. The crash happened at about 7:20 p.m. on Monday in the area of 168 Broadway. The man in the SUV was transported to Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston with non-life-threatening injuries, according to police. An Owl for the holidays T he Saugus Public Library is off ering a special art class for kids from ages 11 to 18. Learn how to paint this awesome owl! Keep the fi nished painting for yourself or give it as a holiday gift. The special class is set for Tuesday, Dec. 12, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. in the Brooks Room on the second fl oor of the Saugus Public Library. Space is limited. Please register ahead. Call 781231-4168 or sign up on the online Event Calendar: sauguspubliclibrary. org/Events For more information, contact the Saugus Public Library’s Young Adult/ Reference Librarian, Lisa LeJeune. (Courtesy art to The Saugus Advocate) A double whammy of an accident One driver caused two cars to roll over and smash into the vacant boston market building on route 1 in Saugus
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 Page 7 Moms Cancer Fighting Angels to hold 4th Annual Christmas party–themed fundraiser event at Fuddruckers tomorrow ny Santa’s sleigh with bright lights and music as well as the big man himself – Santa – and Friends. There will also be raffles and 50/50. Fuddruckers will generously donate 20 percent of sales to the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Wakefield during the event. We also ask that you consider bringing a new unwrapped toy for The Salvation Army’s Santa. (Courtesy photos to The Saugus Advocate) S augonians who want to get into the holiday spirit while celebrating a noble cause should make plans to attend the Moms Cancer Fighting Angels 4th Annual Christmas Party– themed fundraiser event tomorrow (Saturday, Dec. 2) from 5 to 8 p.m. at Fuddruckers on Route 1 North in Saugus. The event will feature an ugly sweater contest, the 105.7 WROR Street Team over-budget monster trucks, Christmas Carols with the Saugus High School Acapella Group and Lynn’s All City Band. Meteorologist Pete Bouchard from NBC 10 will read “The Night Before Christmas” to the children. Massachusetts Pink Patch Cruisers will accompaFor Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 781-233-4446 or info@advocatenews.net
Page 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 New tax rates set On average, homeowners will pay $218.15 more, businesses $3,380.48 more, under plan approved by selectmen for Fy2024 By Mark E. Vogler T he owner of an average single-family home in Saugus valued at $617,905 will pay $6,581 in taxes next year – $218.15 more than this year. Meanwhile, the tax bill for an average commercial property, valued at $2,172,585, will be $47,905 – an increase of $3,380.48 over this year. Those scenarios will take effect as a result of the new tax rates for the 2024 fi scal year approved unanimously on Wednesday (Nov. 29) night by the Board of Selectmen, pending approval by the state Department of Revenue (DOR). A tax rate analysis presented by the Saugus Board of Assessors showed a 3.43 percent increase in the average homeowner’s tax bill, while commercial and industrial property owners can expect an average increase of 7.59 percent. Once again, selectmen followed their past practice of recent years by adopting a plan calculating the lowest possible residential factor – a plan that would tax commercial, industrial and personal (CIP) property at a maximum share of the tax levy for the 2024 fi scal year at 175 percent. Selectmen voted to set the tax rates for the 2024 Fiscal Year that begins next July 1 at $10.65 per $1,000 of assessed valuation for residential and $22.05 per $1,000 of assessed valuation for commercial. The current tax rates are $11.26 for residential and $23.34 for commercial. By again adopting a plan that would shift the tax burden from the residential class by 175 percent to the commercial, industrial and personal property classes, selectmen lowered the average tax bill by $1,200, according to Board of Selectmen Vice Chair Jeffrey Cicolini. The town experienced more than $89 million in new growth for the 2024 fi scal year, adding $1.6 million to the total levy. New growth is the increase in the tax base due to new construction, parcel subdivisions, condominium conversions and property renovations, but not due to revaluation. Deputy Assessor Iwona Wilt said that the multimillion UPS building at 150 Salem Turnpike contributed to much of the commercial growth over the past year. Two apartment buildings on Route 1 at 728 Broadway and 860 Rear Broadway were major factors for the new growth on the residential side, according to Wilt. Four utilities (Boston Gas Company, Mass Electric, New England Power Company and North Star Electric) accounted for much of the growth in personal property, she said. Wilt and Saugus Board of Assessors Chair David Ricciardelli briefed selectmen at the 20-minute tax classifi cation hearing on Wednesday night. Here are some of the highlights from that hearing: • The average valuation of a single-family home in Saugus has increased by $52,848, from $565,057 (fi scal 2023) to $617,905 (fi scal 2024). • The average valuation for commercial property has increased by $264,915, from $1,907,670 (fiscal 2023) to $2,172,585 (fi scal 2024). • There was a decrease in tax rates. Overall, residential tax rates in Saugus decreased from $11.26 for $1,000 of assessed valuation to $10.65 – a 61-cent drop. Meanwhile, CIP tax rates dipped from $23.34 for $1,000 of assessed valuation to $22.05 – a $1.29 decrease. • The projected new growth has increased over last year for residential, commercial, industrial and personal property classes, from $1,515,638 (fiscal 2023) to $1,605,184 (fi scal 2024) – an increase of $89,546. • Residential properties account for 82.9 percent of the town’s total valuation of $6.9 billion. • While CIP taxpayers account for about 17.1 percent of the tax valuation in town, they contribute about 30 percent in tax revenue. If Saugus homeowners want to learn why their taxes increased, they can go online. Taxpayers who think they are being over-assessed on their property can find out how their property compares to neighboring properties and they can seek an abatement. TAX RATES SET | SEE PAGE 17
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 Page 9 Grand ole time: Sachem’s DeSimone finishes stellar 1,000-yard-plus season for Saugus By Dom Nicastro A s captain of the Saugus High School football team, running back Tommy DeSimone finished his season with an impressive 1,113 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns. It was the first time since Marvens Jean did it before COVID-19 that a Sachem dashed over the 1,000yard milestone. DeSimone has become a standout figure in the Sachems’ turnaround story. His performance on the field is a testament to his hard work and determination, and it’s reflected in the numbers that tally up to a stellar season. DeSimone’s achievements go beyond the statistics; they highlight a journey of resilience, leadership and growth. In this Q&A, we delve into the mindset of a captain who has helped to shift the direction of Saugus football, uncovering the work ethic and passion that drive him both on and off the field. 1. When thinking about this season and the strides the program made, to what do you attribute the success? The success we had this season started all the way back in December 2022; going 0-11 to 1-10 is a lot to go through as a program. It was time for a change after last season; we knew it was time to get to work. I’ve never seen a group of a guys especially the seniors be so dedicated to get this program back on track. Having almost our whole team at workouts, guys running track, recruiting in the school, and guys working out on their own. I can’t tell you how many times this off-season I would go to the field and see guys training by themselves without telling anyone. You win and lose games in the offseason. I have full confidence in the younger guys to be even better next season. 2. How did you feel and what worked so well personally for you in that beginning of the season where Cam Preston was at quarterback? Having Cam at quarterback made my life and everyone else’s so much easier. Having such a great quarterback opens up every part of your Co-Capt. Tommy DeSimone carried the ball for the Sachems in recent action. offense in every aspect. We were so balanced offensively; we felt like we couldn’t be stopped. When you throw for so many yards a game, teams have to back off, which opens up the run game for me. Cam made it easy for me to be successful as a back. 3. What was it like making the adjustments on offense after Cam got injured? Once Cam got hurt, I knew I had to be the anchor of the offense. We had to establish a run game every game so we could get Jordan Rodriguez comfortable and be able to settle in to make easy decisions. He’s a young kid, and when you start as a sophomore at QB you’re gonna be special. The kid is gonna have all the experience in the world next year and his senior year. But once Cam got hurt it took time for us to get comfortable, but we started to have success again in the season. I was ready for the workload. I had full confidence in myself to carry the offense. When you also have receivers like Isaiah Rodriguez and Ameen Taboubi, we felt like we could still move the ball on the ground and through the air. Adjusting took time, but I think we figured it out. 4. What can you say about eclipsing 1,000 yards and joining such an elite club? Rushing for over 1,000 yards this season and joining that club has been nothing more than a blessing to reach that milestone. When I was in the 8th grade, I watched Marvens Jean play here at Saugus, and I looked up to him. His senior year he ran for over 1,000, too, and he was the last Sachem to do it. To reach that mark and join a club with guys like him – it’s such an honor to me. I can’t thank my offensive line, O-line coach Greg Bluestein and Coach Steve Cummings enough for setting me up for success all season long. 5. How long have you been playing football? I’ve been playing football my entire life; since I first started walking I had a football in my hand. I started playing football when I was around 5 or 6 years old. Football has been my life for such a long time. Football is like life; you’re gonna cherish everything you do in this sport forever. 6. Tell me about your family and are there any other athletes in it? My family has been full of athletes; it’s where I get it from. My mother was an outstanding gymnast who competed nationally. My uncle played at Saugus High, also a running back. He had over 3,000 all-purpose yards as a Sachem and is probably still to this day one of the best Saugus High football players to wear the red and white. Sachems Co-Capt. Tommy DeSimone enjoys a lighter moment on the football field. My family as a whole is a football family. You’ll catch us not being able to sit down as we stand around a TV jumping up and down, cheering and screaming for the Patriots every Sunday. We are diehard Boston sports fans. Most supportive and passionate family you’ll ever meet! 7. What keeps you busy outside of football and school (jobs, hangout stuff, extracurricular clubs, etc.)? I’d say the gym keeps me the busiest out of football. I’m a workaholic. I live, breathe, sleep and eat the weight room. It’s my second passion. In the off-season I look forward to getting my lift in after school; it becomes the highlight of my day. I wanna shout out my uncle Rodney Lavoie Jr. who got me into training and the gym as a whole. He is everything to me and does everything in his power for me to be successful. And also Mike Penta who has been training me for two years now in the weight room, and I wouldn’t be where I’m at without him! 8. What’s next for you at Saugus? Winter sport and spring? For me I’m taking the winter off from sports to recover, train and start getting ready for my career at the next level. But come springtime, I will be running track as my final time playing a sport at Saugus High. 9. What are you looking at for after high school, for academics/work/athletics? After high school I will be going to college to continue my academic and football career. In a short time I will be announcing where I will be playing football for the next four years. 10. Who has served as mentors for you as coaches, and who has inspired you in terms of teammates and why? I think I can honestly say every coach I’ve ever played for has been a mentor for me for some time in my life. You learn something from everyone and to every coach I played for, you helped mold me into the player and man I am today. I thank you all. Couple names I’ll mention are: Coach Dennis Murphy, Coach Spy, Coach Bluestein, Coach Cummings, coach John Raye, my grandfather, and everyone else. In terms of teammates I have a long list of guys like Ameen Taboubi, Isaiah Rodriguez, Braden Faiella, Ethan Malcolm, Ryan Shea, Danny Shea, Cam Preston, Jordan Rodriguez, Cody Munafo, Tommy Cameron and many more are guys I’ve grown up with and put in so much work in with. They’ve all helped me in so many aspects – not just football. I’ve been around these guys my whole life and they are my forever family. I’m forever grateful.
Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 Football Sachems Served Turkey Day Braden Faiella grabs hold of a Tanner ball carrier. Sachem captain Isaiah Rodriguez makes a nifty catch. Tommy Cameron discusses a play with the coaches on Thanksgiving Day at Veteran’s Memorial Stadium in Peabody. Laith Haddad sits on the bench after the Sachem’s 27-6 loss during their annual Thanksgiving Day game in Peabody. Quarterback Jordan Rodriguez winds up for a pass downfield. Saugus football captain Tommy DeSimone evades a Peabody pass rush. Saugus High School football fans cheer during their Thanksgiving Day game against Peabody. Isaiah Rodriguez carries the ball and a Peabody defender.
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 Page 11 y Loss by Tanners, 27-6 Braden Faiella, left, and Ameen Taboubi gang-tackles a Tanner ball carrier. Saugus players celebrate after recovering a Peabody fumble. Tommy DeSimone bursts past a Peabody defender. Cody Munafo, left, and Tommy DeSimone team-up on the tackle. Isaiah Rodriguez tackles a Tanner ball carrier. Cody Munafo with the ball for Saugus. Sachem center Dwayne Williams gets set for the next down. Tommy DeSimone cuts left as a Peabody defender moves in. Saugus high school 2023 football cheer team.
Page 12 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 that we value so much.In the absence of federal action, we need to have an honest conversation about these growing costs and what our off-ramp, if any, is going to be. (A “Yes” vote is for the amendIf you have any questions about this week’s report, e-mail us at bob@beaconhillrollcall. com or call us at (617) 720-1562. Beacon Hill Roll Call Volume 48 - Report No. 47 November 20-24, 2023 Copyright © 2023 Beacon Hill Roll Call. All Rights Reserved. By Bob Katzen GET A FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO MASSTERLIST – Join more than 22,000 people, from movers and shakers to political junkies and interested citizens, who start their weekday morning with MASSterList—the popular newsletter that chronicles news and informed analysis about what’s going on up on Beacon Hill, in Massachusetts politics, policy, media and influence. The stories are drawn from major news organizations as well as specialized publications. MASSterlist will be e-mailed to you FREE every Monday through Friday morning and will give you a leg up on what’s happening in the blood sport of Bay State politics. For more information and to get your free subscription, go to: https://lp. constantcontactpages.com/su/ aPTLucK THE HOUSE AND SENATE: Beacon Hill Roll Call records local senators’ votes from recent sessions. There were no roll calls in the House or Senate last week. CREATE COMMISSION TO EXAMINE CURRENT EMERGENCY SHELTER SYSTEM (S 5250) Senate 39-0, approved an amendment creating a bipartisan commission to study and make recommendations by March 1, 2024 on the financial impact and sustainability of the state’s current emergency shelter system and the various supports that are currently offered to individuals and families. “Our state’s emergency shelter program was simply never meant to handle the number of individuals that it is housing today and we need to take a hard look at the financial stability of our emergency housing assistance program, and the impact it is having on our municipalities and commonwealth as a whole,” said amendment sponsor Sen. John Velis (D-Westfield). “Otherwise, we will soon be faced with some very difficult decisions on other funding priorities ment.) Sen. Brendan Crighton Yes REQUIRE PRICING DATA (S 2499) Senate 38-0, approved an amendment to a section of a drug price reform bill. A section of the bill gives the state’s Center for Health Information and Analysis (CHIA’s) the option to fine pharmaceutical companies up to $2,000 per week if they do not submit drug pricing data by a certain deadline. The amendment would require CHIA to fine the companies. “For far too long, the pharmaceutical industry has exploited taxpayers, patients and the government through insidious lobbying tactics that have prevented any meaningful price control for decades,” said amendment sponsor Sen. Mark Montigny (D-New Bedford). “The industry has fought every common-sense cost-saving policy I have sponsored for over 20 years, ranging from bulk purchasing to simple price transparency.” ment.) Yes ALSO UP ON BEACON HILL 2024 BALLOT QUESTION – Campaigns to put questions on the November 2024 ballot had until November 22 to collect and file with local city and towns clerks the 74,574 signatures necessary to take the next step toward getting their proposals on the November 2024 ballot. The next step is for supporters to file the signatures, following certification by local officials, with the secretary of state’s office by Dec. 6. The proposal would then be sent to the Legislature and if not approved by the Legislature by May 1, 2024, proponents must gather another 12,429 signatures and file them with local officials by June 19, 2024, and then the secretary of state’s office by July 3, 2024, in order for the question to appear on the November 2024 ballot. Several proposals seem poised to get the 74,574 signatures although nothing is offi(A “Yes” vote is for the amendSen. Brendan Crighton cial yet. The proposed laws include ones to change the rights and benefits for on-demand drivers like Uber and Lyft; permit the state auditor’s office to audit the Legislature; increase over five years the minimum wage for tipped workers to the same as the general minimum wage; legalize some psychedelic substances including psilocybin and psilocyn found in mushrooms to treat mental health disorders including major depressive disorder and substance abuse; remove the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) exam as a high school graduation requirement and instead require students to complete coursework certified by the student’s district as demonstrating mastery of the competencies contained in the state academic standards in math, science and technology and English FREE PHONE CALLS FOR PRISONERS (S 4502) – Gov. Maura Healey signed into law a bill that beginning on December 1, 2023, will provide free phone calls and video calls for all prisoners in Massachusetts. Currently there is no legal requirement for free phone calls in correctional facilities. Each facility contracts separately for telephone service. “Ensuring that individuals in state and county prisons can keep in contact with their loved ones is key to enhancing rehabilitation, reducing recidivism and improving community safety,” Healey said. “I’m proud to sign this important legislation.” “Providing free phone calls in Massachusetts prisons and jails has been a longstanding priority of mine and I am thrilled to see the commonwealth recognize the importance of keeping families connected by codifying this reform into law,” said Sen. Cindy Creem (D-Newton). “By eliminating these excessive fees, we are helping families during an already traumatizing period of separation, improving public safety outcomes by reducing recidivism, and ultimately ending a regressive and outdated policy.” At the time the Legislature approved the bill on November 8, Rep. Nick Boldyga (R-Southwick) who opposed the measure said, “Every law abiding citizen that has a job and works 40 plus hours a week has to pay for phone calls. Why are criminals entitled to free phone calls? It’s completely ridiculous and absurd that Democrats are giving free anything to criminals. Criminals and their families should be paying for their phone calls, not taxpayers.” DWARFISM AWARENESS DAY (H 3044) – On November 20, the House gave initial approval to a bill that would make October 25th Dwarfism Awareness Day in the Bay State. The legislation would not apply until October 25, 2024 since October 25, 2023 has already come and gone. Despite repeated requests from Beacon Hill Roll Call, sponsor Rep. Jim Hawkins (D-Attleboro) failed to respond to requests asking him to comment on his proposal. In the 2021-2022 session, the bill was approved by the House but died in the Senate. At that time, Hawkins, a retired teacher from Attleboro High School, said he filed the measure after a request by former student Vicki Ziniti who has dwarfism. “She has organized an advocacy group of people with dwarfism and asked me about the possibility for ‘National Dwarfism Day’ in the commonwealth,” said Hawkins. Since graduating, Vicki has gotten her teaching certification and is a classroom teacher so you know we were excited to file this legislation and advocate for its passage.” Supporters say that around the world people with dwarfism face social and physical barriers. They note that October 25 was chosen as the day for Dwarfism Awareness Day because it was the birthday of Billy Barty who was an American actor who had dwarfism, and in 1957 set up Little People of America—an organization that supports people with dwarfism as well as raising awareness about the issue. DOXING (S 1116, H 1707 and S 971) – The Judiciary Committee held a hearing on several bills that would make doxing illegal in Massachusetts. One of the measures defines doxing as “the knowing disclosure of personal identifying information of a person without that person’s consent that is intended to cause stalking, physical harm to person, or serious property damage, or to cause the person about whom the information pertains to reasonably fear for the physical safety of themselves or a close relation.” “We are living in a time when a truly alarming amount of hate is being directed at individuals and marginalized groups of people, including identity-based bigotry,” said the sponsor of S 1116 Sen. Becca Rausch (D-Needham). “That hatred can manifest as dangerous doxBAN PHISHING AND TRACKING (H 1573) – The Judiciary Committee hearing also included legislation that would outlaw the practice of phishing, which involves using fraudulent e-mail solicitations in an attempt to obtain an individual’s personal information, including computer passwords, bank account and credit card numbers. The bill would establish the punishment for phishing as a fine of up to $5,000 and/or up to a 2.5 year jail sentence. “Phishing scams are evolving daily, morphing into more complex schemes intended to defraud a wide range of targets, from individual residents of the commonwealth to large financial service institutions,” said sponsor Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “As these phishing attempts become more sophisticated, it is imperative that we continue to modernize our laws to combat and prevent these types of scams to protect the public.” The committee’s agenda also included a bill filed by Jones that would prohibit the use of motor vehicle tracking devices without the consent of the vehicle’s owner. The provisions BEACON HILL | SEE PAGE 13 ing, publishing someone’s personally identifying information without their consent and with malicious intent. [The bill] establishing a right to freedom from doxing, would explicitly declare doxing to be unlawful and provide recourse for doxing through either a private cause of action or civil suit filed by the attorney general.” “My commitment to the well-being and safety of the commonwealth is one of my top priorities,” said Rep. Tram Nguyen (D-Andover), the sponsor of H 1707. “In an era where technology connects us, it’s important to provide protections against doxing so that no one lives in fear of harassment, stalking, or harm. This bill will advance our shared responsibility to establish a safer and more respectful digital community for all.” “I believe that everyone has a fundamental right to privacy online, which is why I filed legislation to protect individuals against incidents of doxing,” said Sen. Barry Finegold (D-Andover), the sponsor of S 971. “Ensuring privacy for all residents within the commonwealth, especially those most vulnerable to this malicious action, continues to be one of my legislative priorities.”
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 Page 13 Despite Thanksgiving loss, Saugus football sees season of growth By Dom Nicastro T he Saugus High School football team didn’t end the season the way it wanted to – a 27-6 loss at the hands of Thanksgiving Day rival Peabody on the road. Peabody ended up with five interceptions and captured its ninth consecutive Turkey Day victory over the Sachems. Saugus finished the season 5-6, Peabody 10-1. On the surface, it appears to be a sour end to a losing season for Saugus. And that’s true. But digging deeper for the full context on the 2023 season for Saugus, you’d discover this was a foundational season of what can be good things to come. Remember, this is a program that won one game between the past two seasons and about a handful over the last five. Starting 3-0 and finishing with an almost .500 record and five total wins? That’s progress. Saugus exploded onto the scene this season by scoring 40, 28 and 27 points in three victories. The injury bug hit in big ways, sidelining leaders like quarterback Cam Preston and two-way standout Braden Faiella. The latter capBEACON HILL | FROM PAGE 12 of this bill would not apply to systems installed by the manufacturer of a motor vehicle, car rental businesses or insurance companies with the vehicle owner’s consent. “Motor vehicle tracking devices provide a useful tool for law enforcement, parents and legal guardians of children who are minors, and business owners tracking company vehicles, and those uses would continue to be allowed under this bill,” said Jones. “The real purpose of this bill is to promote public safety by preventing individuals from using these devices to engage in predatory activities such as stalking.” QUOTABLE QUOTES “Through the creation of readiness plans on college campuses, we are ensuring that tain would return but Preston was lost for the season. Sophomore quarterback Jordan Rodriguez performed admirably in a tough situation, taking the snaps the rest of the way after Game 3. And Saugus flirted with a berth in the postseason with a 4-4 regular season mark but just missed. As for the Peabody game on Thanksgiving, Saugus didn’t exactly lay down for the Tanners. Saugus’ Tommy DeSimone ran for 40 yards on 23 carries to finish his awesome 1,000-yard-plus season. But the Sachems couldn’t get much offense going on the morning. DeSimone had a 13yard touchdown run in the third to break up the shutout. “Taking advantage of turnovers – I felt during the season, we took advantage of teams’ mistakes and turned them into points,” DeSimone said. “We forced a couple turnovers Thursday; we just weren’t able to turn them into points.” Faiella said the team got strong pushes from the offensive line and, in general, the defensive line stepped up, shutting Peabody down in the second half. Saugus also stopped a Peabody drive near the end of the first half. more people will have safe and effective options for reproductive health care. Schools can and should use this toolkit to evaluate and improve their capacity to provide sexual and reproductive health services. Every student in Massachusetts deserves thoughtful and comprehensive support when making decisions about their own health.” ---Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll announcing the launch of the Medication Abortion Toolkit for Public Colleges and Universities. The toolkit is designed to assist Massachusetts’ public colleges and universities in preparing medication abortion readiness plans to provide, or make referrals for, medication abortion on college campuses in accordance with new Massachusetts law. “Work authorization is key to helping new arrivals get jobs that will help them support their families, move out of UP & OVER: Sachem co-captain Isaiah Rodriguez makes a nifty catch over a Tanner defender during Saugus’ Thanksgiving Day battle at Veteran’s Memorial Stadium in Peabody. (Advocate photo by Emily Harney) Saugus later recovered an onsides kick after it scored its touchdown but gave up the ball on the next possession. Faiella is playing basketball in the winter then doing track in the spring; “those two sports are a very good time, and I’m looking forward to them,” he said. DeSimone, another captain for the Sachems this year, is taking the winter off to train emergency shelter into more stable housing options, and fill critical workforce needs across our economy. We’re proud that the first week of this clinic has proven to be such a success, with more than 1,000 people served.” ---Gov. Maura Healey announcing that her administration assisted some 1,200 work-eligible migrants staying in emergency family shelters with obtaining work authorizations in the first week of its Work Authorization Legal Clinic in partnership with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. “Quick Temp repeatedly denied their employees a prevailing wage and other benefits guaranteed to them by law. As we approach the holiday season, these issues of wage theft become even more pressing to resolve. My office will continue to hold accountable those who violate our wage and hour laws and lift weights. He will be running track in the spring and besides that will be in full training mode to prepare for his college football career. “Rest time is over,” DeSimone said when asked the message to returning players coming back to play Saugus football. “If you aren’t playing a winter sport you should live in the weight room and get on guys to get in there with and do so in partnership with our unions and trades.” ---Attorney General Andrea Campbell announcing a series of citations against Quick Temp., Inc., totaling $1,392,665, in restitution and civil fines for violations including failure to pay a prevailing wage, failure to pay minimum wage, failure to pay overtime, non-payment of wages and failure to accrue earned sick leave. “Gov. Healey and Statehouse politicians need to realize they cannot tax their way out of their spending problem. These high tax policies do nothing but make Massachusetts an unaffordable place to live, retire and do business in.” ---Paul Craney, spokesman for the Mass Fiscal Alliance commenting on the Tax Foundation’s new report that ranks Massachusetts as in fifth in the most state and local tax collections per capita in each state as of fiscal year fiscal year 2021, you. Do wrestling in the winter if you’re gonna play a sport and run track in the spring. The future is now.” For his part, Faiella said returning players need to make sure they’re lifting and also getting faster. “I believe those two things do a lot on the football field,” he said. ‘I would also tell them to enjoy every moment in football because it flies by.” the most recent year for which full state-by-state data are available. 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 sesBEACON HILL | SEE PAGE 17
Page 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 The Sounds of Saugus By Mark E. Vogler Good morning, Saugus! You know that Christmas is right around the corner when retired Saugus postal worker Karen Coburn dusts off her special “Santa’s Mail Box” and sets it up near the entrance inside the Saugus Post Office in Cliftondale. I got a call from Karen this week that she’s prepared to be a pen pal again to dozens of kids in town and a few others in surrounding communities who want to write letters to Santa. With the support of the Saugus Post Office, she’s been gathering “Letters To Santa” for about two decades. Though Karen retired from the U.S. Postal Service in May of 2019 after three decades – most of it in Saugus – she continued to receive Santa letters because she couldn’t find somebody to take over the project. The red metal mailbox with the inscription “LETTERS FOR SANTA” is all set in the lobby of the Saugus Post Office in Cliftondale to spread a little Christmas cheer. It’s a wonderful tradition that Karen has begun, and, hopefully, more Saugus kids will take advantage of the opportunity in the remaining days leading up to Christmas – only three weeks away from Monday (Dec. 4). Karen has some advice for parents to help make this homegrown holiday tradition more enjoyable: Be sure to include the child’s address on the envelope so Santa knows where to send his responding letter. Also include a little information about good things the child has done – something positive or something that really stands out – so that Santa can get more personal in his letter. Food Pantry notes: The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry is open today (Friday, Dec. 1) from 9:30-11 a.m. Legion Breakfast today There’s a good breakfast deal for Saugus veterans and other folks who enjoy a hearty breakfast on Friday mornings. The American Legion Post 210 at 44 Taylor St. in Saugus offers Friday morning breakfasts for the 202324 season. Doors open at 7:30 a.m., with breakfast served from 8-9:00 a.m. for an $8 donation. Veterans who cannot afford the donation may be served free. Special “Shout Outs” We had a few nominations from readers this week: Precinct 2 Town Meeting Member Jeannie Meredith: “Thank you all for your continued support and faith in my ability to serve you and our Town. I will continue to advocate for my precinct as well as our community as a whole. I look forward to working with each and everyone of you. Thank you again for your vote!” Precinct 6 Town Meeting Member Jeanie Bartolo offered two “Shout Outs”: “This sad ‘Shout Out’ goes to Joh Reed who passed away … Joh was brilliant, funny, and just a wonderful person to know. She was a member of the Finance Committee for several years and was an important part of that committee. She was a great animal lover. I will miss her. Rest in peace my dear friend. “The second ‘Shout Out’ goes to Steve Doherty, Town Meeting Moderator, for the great job he did at the Orientation for the new Town Meeting Members, last night at the Library. It was great to see 8 out of 12 new Town Meeting Members who attended. It was also an opportunity for several of us veteran members who attended to have a refresher course.” Mary Lou Graham: “Please find below a shout out for the Veterans School Drive by Food Drop Off. Thank you to everyone who participated in this on 4 November 2023. This was a great success that could not have been accomplished without the support of our wonderful community. All the churches in town, businesses and individuals who dropped off non-perishable food at the drive by to help support those in need. Also, to all those who continue to support the food bank throughout the year. Special thanks to our organizer, Corinne Riley, the Saugus Board of Selectmen, volunteers from the Saugus United Parish Food Pantry, and the Veterans School Custodian for his help.” Nancy Fitzgerald Doherty: “On January 5th, 25-year-old John O’Brien was sworn in as the 24th Register of Deeds for Southern Essex County. (Including 1636-1637, Clerk of Quarter Courts in Salem & Ipswich). Over the next four decades, John O’Brien would become a champion for the people in his district and nationwide—a forward thinker and solution finder. Over the years, he’s pushed for the advancement of technology while protecting the integrity of the land recordation system. He was also a pioneer in electronic recording of Land Court Documents. There’s a reason why he won a Smithsonian award for innovative use of technology. “John’s progressive thinking Enough with politics! Let’s talk reindeer and holidays! This sweet little reindeer can be seen at the Stoneham Zoo. (Courtesy photo of Joanie Allbee) moved all areas of this Registry forward. He lived by the motto ‘How May We Help You!’ operating the Registry like a family-owned business. He hit the street with outreach programs, created a free Property Fraud Watch Alert program, and always had an open-door policy for employees, constituents, friends, and family. “As this year is about to end, so does John’s tenure as Register. A four-decade career as a public official is quite astonishing. His dedication to the people of the Southern Essex District is an inspiration. The phrase ‘thank you for your service’ seems trivial for the 46 years, 11 months, and 26 days, or 17,161 days he has been in office. “John, we’ll remember you not only as the longest-serving Register of Southern Essex District Registry of Deeds but as a great man full of humor, wit, and compassion.” Editor’s Choice: Jake D’Eon of Saugus Boy Scout Troop 62 will finally be getting his Eagle badge at an Eagle Scout Court of Honor that is set for 1 p.m. Sunday (Dec. 3) at the Saugus Elks, at 401 Main St. in Saugus. Jake is one of those quiet, but confident Eagles who aspired to achieving Scouting’s Highest Honor when he was just a kid. I interviewed him while he was competing in a Cub Scout Pinewood Derby. As one Eagle to another, I congratulate this outstanding young man and I have high expectations for his future endeavors in whatever career path he chooses. Want to “Shout Out” a fellow Saugonian? This is an opportunity for our paper’s readers to single out – in a brief mention – remarkable acts or achievements by Saugus residents or an act of kindness or a nice gesture. Just send an email (mvoge@comcast.net) with a mention in the subject line of “An Extra Shout Out.” No more than a paragraph; anything longer might lend itself to a story and/or a photo. WIN Waste cleanup at Crescent Marsh tomorrow WIN Waste Innovations, a sustainable provider of essential waste and recycling services, will sponsor a community cleanup of Crescent Marsh tomorrow (Saturday, Dec. 2), in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and the state Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR). Local political and community leaders, members of the community and employees of the company are expected to collaborate on tomorrow’s cleanup project at Crescent Marsh, which is located at Route 107 North in Saugus between Brown Circle and the WIN Waste Innovations facility. Those who want to join in the cleanup are welcome to park at WIN Waste (100 Salem Turnpike) in Saugus. The cleanup will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 16
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 Page 15 Saugus Gardens in the Fall Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable By Laura Eisener F or a few weeks there has been activity in the center of town: lights being hung and the bows arranged on the spruce reminding residents of the festivities to come tonight! Today is the first day of meteorological winter. The wind and rain from the day before Thanksgiving brought down a lot of leaves, but even now there are some trees and shrubs holding on to colorful foliage. The full moon of November, usually called the beaver moon, shone down on a cold landscape Monday. We will not see another full moon until the day after Christmas. After a few cold nights with breaks of warm weather in between, most of the flowers in our gardens have finished blooming. There are still a few things flowering where the sun’s heat was stored in passive solar collectors like bricks, stone, or pavement. These areas can be excessively hot in the summer but serve to protect them in late fall and early spring. South facing walls can also reflect sunlight, and the stone or concrete foundation of buildings on the south sides also store heat. At the small mall on Hamilton Street this week, several buds on the yellow ‘Happy The full moon of November could be seen between nearly bare branches. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) Returns’ daylily (Hemerocallis ‘Happy Returns’) are still getting ready to open, and most of its leaves are still green. At Vitale Park, a tiny cudweed was blooming between some bricks next to some moss that was still bright green. Next to a telephone pole on Lincoln Avenue, a clump of seaside goldenrod was still sporting bright yellow flowers. Cudweed (Gnaphalium spp.) is a small plant in the aster or composite family (Asteraceae) with small white flowers – very salt tolerant and comCudweed is still blooming between bricks at Vitale Park. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) mon in Rumney Marsh. Most of the species were brought to North America by European settlers and have naturalized. The plants were often used to cure cattle of digestive problems. The blooming one I saw was growing between bricks in Vitale Park. On Lincoln Avenue at Thanksgiving, a bright yellow flowering seaside goldenrod (Solidago sempervirens) still beamed next to a telephone pole, surrounded by asphalt, while most of the others I have seen lately in Rumney Marsh, and along tidal areas of Saugus River, have already gone to seed. The flowers of this goldenrod look like small sunflowers arranged on tall stems – the plants can grow up to eight feet in height, but this late bloomer was less than two feet tall. This coastal native perennial is one of the most attractive goldenrods, and its leaves remain green all winter. While some birds have migrated south, many remain all winter. Among these, the northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) is one of the most colorful. The plumage on males becomes especially bright in late fall and winter. Females remain a somewhat olive color, though both males and females have bright red-orange beaks. Recently a small group of cardinals were foraging for food near the red bridge on the bike trail, one of the few structures in town that can compete with them for brightness. 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. Two cardinals cross the bike trail near the red bridge. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) Seaside goldenrod has found a spot to bloom in the midst of the pavement on Lincoln Avenue. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) Paul Kenworthy selects a wreath at Little Brook Florist & Garden Center on Lincoln Avenue. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener)
Page 16 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 THE SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 14 Look for the kids and grownups gathering and bagging trash and other items. There will be refreshments for participants. What’s new at the Saugus Public Library? There’s always something interesting going on. Here’s Sa a few activities with checking out: Interested in learning a little about the Saugus Annual Town Meeting? In representative Town Meetings, members elected by the citizens of their precinct participate and directly vote on legislation. Are you a new Town Meeting Member or just an interestSa nr a nior How a Health Savings y Senior Seni by Jim Miller Account Can Boost Your Retirement Savings Dear Savvy Senior, I’m interested in contributing to a health savings account to help boost my retirement savings but would like to better understand how they work. What can you tell me? Almost 60 Dear Almost, A health savings account, or HSA, is a fantastic fi nancial tool that can help you build up a taxfree stash of money for medical expenses now and after you retire. But to qualify, you must be enrolled in a high-deductible health insurance plan. Here’s an overview of how they work and how you can open one. HSA Rules HSAs have become very popular over the past few years as the cost of health care continues to skyrocket, and because more and more Americans have high-deductible health plans. The great benefi t of a HSA is the triple tax advantage that it offers: Your HSA contributions can be deducted pretax from your paycheck, lowering your taxable income; the money in the account grows tax-free; and if you use the money for eligible medical expenses, withdrawals are tax-free. And if you change jobs, the HSA moves with you. To qualify, you must have a health insurance policy with a deductible of at least $1,500 for an individual or $3,000 for a family in 2023. In 2024, the deductible rises to $1,600/individual or $3,200/family. This year, you can contribute up to $3,850 if you have single health insurance coverage, or up to $7,750 for family coverage. Next year (2024) you can contribute signifi cantly more – up to $4,150 for single coverage or up to $8,300 for family coverage. And people age 55 and older can put away an extra $1,000 each year. But you cannot make contributions after you sign up for Medicare. The money can be used for out-of-pocket medical expenses, including deductibles, co-payments, Medicare premiums, prescription drugs, vision and dental care and other expenses (see IRS. gov/pub/irs-pdf/p502.pdf, page 5, for a complete list) either now or when you retire for yourself and your spouse as well as your tax dependents. Unlike a fl exible spending account, an HSA doesn’t require you to use the money by the end of the year. Rather, HSA funds roll over year to year and continue to grow tax-free in your HSA account for later use. In fact, you’ll get a bigger tax benefi t if you use other cash for current medical expenses and keep the HSA money growing for the long term. Be sure to hold on to your receipts for medical expenses after you open your HSA, even if you pay those bills with cash, so you can claim the expenses later. There’s no time limit for withdrawing the money taxfree for eligible medical expenses you incurred any time after you opened the account. But be aware that if you do use your HSA funds for non-medical expenses, you’ll be required to pay taxes on the withdrawal, plus a 20 percent penalty. The penalty, however, is waived for those 65 and older, but you’ll still pay ordinary income tax on withdraws not used for eligible expenses. How to Open an HSA You should first check with your employer to see if they off er a HSA, and if they will contribute to it. If not, you can open an HSA through many banks, brokerage fi rms and other fi nancial institutions, as long as you have a qualifi ed high-deductible health insurance policy. If you plan to keep the money growing for the future, look for an HSA administrator that off ers a portfolio of mutual funds for long-term investing and has low fees. Some of the top-rated HSA providers in 2023 are Lively, HealthEquity, OptumBank, Fidelity, HSA Bank and Bank of America. After setting up your HSA plan, adding money is pretty straightforward. Most plans let you do online transfers from your bank, send checks directly, or set up a payroll deduction if off ered by your employer. To access your HSA funds many plans, provide a debit card and most allow for reimbursement. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book. ior ed citizen who would like to learn more about Town Meeting? From Robert’s Rules of Order to how to get your articles on the ballot, these sessions will help and inform you on the what, why and how of Town Meeting. One class was recently held. A second session is planned for Monday, Dec. 11, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Community Room of the Saugus Public Library at 295 Central St. in Saugus. Intended for new Town Meeting MemT he holiday season is here, and shoppers want to score a deal. You may see social media ads or emails from unfamiliar websites and brands, but they have items that check bers (as well as any other interested citizens) and hosted by Precinct 10 Town Meeting Peter Manoogian, these sessions are free of charge and all members of the public are welcome – no registration required. The December Art Exhibit will be The Sketch Artist’s Art Exhibit of sketches done in 2023–2023: “Sketches of Our Saugonian Luminaries.” About The Saugus Advocate We welcome press releases, boxes on your gift lists. You click on the ad, and you’re taken to a website you’ve never heard of before, then you are redirected to another page. Before you click and fi ll your - LEGAL NOTICE - COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS THE TRIAL COURT PROBATE AND FAMILY COURT Essex Probate and Family Court 36 Federal Street Salem, MA 01970 (978) 744-1020 Docket No. ES23P2953EA Estate of: JOHN A. SPADAFORA Also Known as: JOHN ANTHONY SPADAFORA, Sr. Date of Death: 11/10/2022 CITATION ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION To all interested persons: A Petition for S/A - Formal Probate of Will with Appointment of Personal Representative has been filed by John A. Spadafora, Jr. of Arlington, MA requesting that the Court enter a formal Decree and Order and for such other relief as requested in the Petition. The Petitioner requests that: John A. Spadafora, Jr. of Arlington, MA be appointed as Personal Representative(s) of said estate to serve Without Surety on the bond in unsupervised administration IMPORTANT NOTICE You have the right to obtain a copy of the Petition from the Petitioner or at the Court. You have a right to object to this proceeding. To do so, you or your attorney must file a written appearance and objection at this Court before: 10:00 a.m. on the return day of 01/02/2023. This is NOT a hearing date, but a deadline by which you must file a written appearance and objection if you object to this proceeding. If you fail to file a timely written appearance and objection followed by an affidavit of objections within thirty (30) days of the return day, action may be taken without further notice to you. UNSUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION UNDER THE MASSACHUSETTS UNIFORM PROBATE CODE (MUPC) A Personal Representative appointed under the MUPC in an unsupervised administration is not required to file an inventory or annual accounts with the Court. Persons interested in the estate are entitled to notice regarding the administration directly from the Personal Representative and may petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including the distribution of assets and expenses of administration. WITNESS, Hon. Frances M. Giordano, First Justice of this Court. Date: November 27, 2023 PAMELA A. CASEY O’BRIEN REGISTER OF PROBATE December 01, 2023 news announcements, freelance articles and courtesy photos from the community. Our deadline is noon Wednesday. If you have a story idea, an article or photo to submit, please email me at mvoge@ comcast.net, or leave a message at 978-683-7773. 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. BBB Tip: Shopping from overseas retailers cart, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) has a few reminders: • Look for the BBB Seal. Check if the businesses you want to shop from are BBB Accredited. If a business has a BBB Accreditation, it shows consumers that the business prioritizes trust in the marketplace and adds a layer of confi dence and peace of mind for all consumers. When shopping online, look for the BBB Seal, the Sign of a Better Business. • Is the retailer based in North America? Does it have a local presence? We know several online retailers operate overseas. Before you place an order, make sure to check where the package originates, the time frames for delivery, and return policies. • Are there extra fees such as for returns, shipping, etc.? Are you comfortable paying those fees, and if you must make a return, is there a fee associated with it? • Check the website and social media of the retailer. Does the website have contact information, an address and a return policy? Head over to the social media pages. Are there comments? Is the page new? Are the comments a little too “nice” and not negative? If there are negative comments, is the retailer responding? • Check the privacy policy and make sure you are comfortable with how the website uses your personal information. If there is no visible privacy policy, that is a red fl ag, and you should consider other options. After you do your due diligence, you will be able to decide if shopping at an unfamiliar website is right for you. You can also ask your local BBB for assistance and check customer reviews to help you choose trustworthy businesses. For more information: Before shopping online, review the https://www.bbb.org/all/online-shopping and read https:// www.bbb.org/all/online-shopping/smart-shopping-online. When possible, do business with a BBB Accredited Business – https://www.bbb.org/all/bbb-accreditation-standards.
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 Page 17 TAX RATES SET| FROM PAGE 8 Tax bills are due to be mailed out by the end of this month. Sizing up Saugus’ tax bill Here’s how the Fiscal Year 2023 average residential tax bill for Saugus compares with other area communities: Community Average home value family tax bill Saugus $565,057 $6,363 Lynn $477,670 $733,465 $5,326 Lynnfi eld $899,564 $10,165 Malden $367,297 $4,477 Melrose Revere $7,643 $520,830 $4,953 Wakefi eld $698,570 $8,194 (Editor’s Note: Information compiled by the Saugus Board of Assessors.) Sizing up Saugus’ tax rates Here’s how the residential tax rate in Saugus for the Fiscal Year 2023 compares with residential tax rates of other area communities: • Saugus ............................................................. $11.26 • Lynn .................................................................. $11.15 • Lynnfi eld ......................................................... $11.30 • Malden ............................................................. $12.19 • Melrose ............................................................ $10.42 • Revere .............................................................. $9.51 • Wakefi eld ......................................................... $11.73. The report also noted how the CIP tax rate for Saugus compared to Fiscal Year 2023 CIP rates of other area communities: • Saugus ............................................................. $23.34 • Lynn .................................................................. $21.35 • Lynnfi eld ......................................................... $18,15 • Malden ............................................................. $18.68 • Melrose ............................................................. $18,12 • Revere .............................................................. $18.98 • Wakefi eld ......................................................... $22.46 Class ..................................................................... Value (Fiscal 2024) Residential ......................................................... $5.8 billion Commercial ....................................................... $840.8 million Industrial ............................................................ $181.8 million Personal .............................................................. $164.5 million Total ..................................................................... $5.7 billion New Growth* Comparison in Saugus Fiscal Year ........................................................... New Growth 2024 ..................................................................... $1,605,184 2023 ..................................................................... $1,515,638 2022 ..................................................................... $846,712 2021 ..................................................................... $1,146,652 2020 ..................................................................... $1,439,524 2019 ..................................................................... $862,574 2018 ..................................................................... $792,016 2017 ..................................................................... $744,103 2016 ..................................................................... $477,878 2015 ..................................................................... $1,585,111 (Editor’s Note: Information compiled by the Saugus Board of Assessors.) *New growth is the increase in the tax base due to new construction, parcel subdivision, condominium conversions and property renovations but not due to revaluation. It is calculated by multiplying the increased assessed valuation by the prior year’s tax rate for the appropriate class of property. O f Hampton, NH. Passed away peacefully at the age of 79 on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at Hyder Family Hospice House, surrounded by her loving famBEACON HILL | FROM PAGE 13 sions. During the week of November 20-24, the House and Senate both met for a total of 30 minutes each. Mon.Nov. 20House11:01 a.m. to 11:24 a.m. Senate 11:05 a.m. to 11:25 a.m. Tues.Nov. 21No House session No Senate session Wed.Mon. 22House11:00 a.m. to 11:07 a.m. Senate 11:15 a.m. to 11:25 a.m. Thurs. Nov. 23No House session No Senate session Fri.Nov. 24No 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. Average single OBITUARY Marilynn L. Parsons ily. She was born on February 21, 1944, in Somerville, MA to the late Arthur and Mabelle (Cater) Pierce. Raised and educated in Somerville and Everett, Marilynn attended Everett High School and graduated in 1961. Marilynn met Bill Parsons in high school and the two were married on October 12, 1961, at the First Methodist Church in Everett. They settled in Saugus, MA, where they lived for 19 years and raised a family. The family moved to Hampton in 1987 and Marilynn took a position teaching special education at Hampton Academy. She went on to study at the University of New Hampshire, receiving certifi cation in speech and language pathology. In her free time, she enjoyed cooking, reading, travel and, above all, spending time with her family. Left to cherish her memory are her husband of 62 years, William R. Parsons of Hampton, her children, Mark Parsons of Hampton, Shari Miller and her husband Chaz of Huntsville, AL, and Matthew Parsons and his wife Kate of Dover. She is also survived by her sister, Pamela Lamprey of York, ME, her five grandchildren, Kerry, Richard, Tara, Meera, and Nolan, and two great grandchildren, Eleanora and Brooks. All services are private. In lieu of fl owers, donations in her memory may be made to the Memorial Gifts Committee of Hampton United Methodist Church online or by mail to: Hampton United Methodist Church, 525 Lafayette Road, Hampton, NH 03842. Lawn and Yard Care SNOW PLOWING *REASONABLE RATES * PROMPT SERVICE * PARKING LOTS USA 781-521-9927 ~ LEGAL NOTICE ~ SPECIAL PERMIT REQUEST SAUGUS BOARD OF SELECTMEN PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Saugus Board of Selectmen will conduct a Public Hearing on the application for a Special Permit (S-2) under Chapter 40 A, Section 9, and under Section 12.D of the Zoning By-Laws, to allow for the operation of a business with a drive-through window, at 799 and 799R Broadway, Saugus, MA. Petitioner Raising Cane’s/property owners George Nikole Family Trust, Rudbeckia Properties, LLC and Timothy Gann. This hearing will be held in the Saugus Town Hall Auditorium, second floor, 298 Central Street, Saugus, MA, on December 19, 2023 at 7:00 PM. Debra Panetta, Chairman Janice K. Jarosz, Temp. Clerk December 01, 08, 2023 Part-time Cook for small kitchen in Everett 20-25 Hours per week (617) 592-6726 Call Driveways from $35
Page 18 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 Clean-Outs! We take and dispose from cellars, attics, garages, yards, etc. Call Robert at: 781-844-0472 Snow Help Seeking Experienced Plow Drivers for State and Comm. work. Also Snow Shoveler positions available. 24-Hour work availability a must. Starting pay: $30-$40 per hour. Call 617-592-2790 - Everett Frank Berardino MA License 31811 • 24 - Hour Service • Emergency Repairs BERARDINO Plumbing & Heating Residential & Commercial Service Gas Fitting • Drain Service CALL 617-285-0023 617.699.9383 Senior Citizen Discount Discount Tree Service 781-269-0914 Professional TREE REMOVAL & Cleanups 24-HOUR SERVICE AA. Masonry & Construction Felix Valenzuela - 781-500-5519 Free Estimates Licensed & Insured Reliable * Experienced Concrete Work * Decks * Patios * Blue Stone * Retaining Walls * Brick & Cement Blocks * Roofing * Siding * Painting & General Carpentry Email: AAfordablemason@gmail.com HIC 209358 Humane Removal Service COMMONWEALTH WILDLIFE CONTROL ANIMAL & BIRD REMOVAL INCLUDING RODENTS We follow Social Distancing Guidelines! Your Hometown News Delivered! EVERETT ADVOCATE MALDEN ADVOCATE REVERE ADVOCATE SAUGUS ADVOCATE One year subscription to The Advocate of your choice: $150 per paper in-town per year or $200 per paper out-of-town per year. 781 233 4446 Call now! Name_________________________________________ Address_______________________________________ City_______________ State_______ Zip ____________ CC# _______________________________ Exp. _____ Sec. code____ Advocate (City):___________________ Clip & Mail Coupon with Credit Card, Check or Money Order to: Advocate Newspapers Inc. PO Box 490407, Everett, MA 02149 CLASSIFIEDS
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 Page 19 1. On Dec. 1, 1959, 12 countries signed off on the Antarctic Treaty, which created what? 2. How are The Three Stooges, The Supremes and Alvin and the Chipmunks similar? 3. When is a legal case almost like a cake? 4. On Dec. 2, 2001, what energy-trading company fi led for bankruptcy? 5. What country’s capital has the word “New” in its name? 6. What animal’s meat is not called by its name on restaurant menus? 7. December 3 is the fi rst day of Advent; what were the fi rst Advent calendars made of? 8. Whose fi rst novel was originally titled “The Posthumous Papers of the Pickwick Club, Containing a Faithful Record of the Perambulations, Perils, Travels, Adventures and Sporting Transactions of the Corresponding Members”? 9. How are Pandora and Eve similar? 10. December 4 is National Cookie Day; according to Guinness World Records, the largest fortune cookie ever was created in 2022 in Boston and weighed about how many pounds: 1, 2 or 3? 11. In what movie is the line “Some people are worth melting for”? 12. The Commonwealth of Dominica has created the fi rst marine protected reserve for what? 13. On Dec. 5, 1782, U.S. President Martin Van Buren was born, who would have the nicknames “Red Fox of Kinderhook” and “The Little Magician”; what state was he from? 14. What U.S. national organization is female lineagebased? 15. Reportedly, a Venice, Calif., book club in 1995 started reading James Joyce’s last book and fi nished it in October 2023; what is the book’s name? 16. In English, what does BMW stand for? 17. December 6 is Saint Nicholas Day; the poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” is more commonly know by what fi rst line? 18. What is a cluster of bananas called? 19. How are blue, hermit and snow similar? 20. On Dec. 7, 1956, what basketball player was born whose last name is also in the name of a Muppet? 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. BUYER1 For a searchable database of real estate transactions and property information visit: www.thewarrengroup.com. SELLER1 BUYER2 Azeredo, Joilton B Benmahane, Adil Panthi, Arjun Panthi, Manisha B Capraro, Kristen Surabian, Carl N Surabian, Carl N SELLER2 Surabian, Ronald H Surabian, Ronald H ADDRESS 7 Thomas St #J15 1 Essex St #1B 5-A Essex St #5A CITY Saugus Saugus Saugus DATE 11.07.23 11.09.23 11.07.23 PRICE 420000 375000 365000 ANSWERS 1. A peaceful zone to be protected for cooperative scientific research 2. They are groups of three. 3. In a tort, which is a legal term meaning a wrongful act that is not a breach of contract. (A torte is a type of cake.) 4. Enron 5. India (New Delhi) 6. Deer (venison) 7. Wood (in Germany) 8. Charles Dickens’ (a serialized novel better known as “The Pickwick Papers”) 9. They were earth’s first females, according to Greek mythology and the Bible, respectively. 10. 3 (3 lbs., 3 oz. and 6 x 7 inches) 11. “Frozen” 12. Sperm whales 13. New York 14. Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) 15. “Finnegans Wake” 16. Bavarian Motor Works 17. “’Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house…” 18. A hand 19. They are types of crab. 20. Larry Bird (Big Bird)
Page 20 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 1, 2023 Carpenito Real Estate is now SAUGUS $675,000 Expanded cape with fireplace, hardwood, central air, and a garage, located in desirable Indian Valley. SAUGUS $599,000 Affordable 2-family offers 5/4 rooms, 1/1 bedrooms, updated roof and heating systems, separate utilities. CJ D’Amore Your Forever Agent® (978) 882-1715 Explore the unparalleled programs of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth Real Estate with CJ at your service. Contact him today for in-depth information and exceptional real estate offerings. COMMONMOVES.COM 335 CENTRAL STREET, SAUGUS, MA | (781) 233-7300 SAUGUS $329,900 New condo complex with central air and gas heat, new windows, fresh paint, and off-street parking. SAUGUS $319,900 Austin Court offers a 2 bedroom condo with 4 rooms, fresh paint, and an inground pool. REVERE $299,900 Affordable 2 bedroom condo offers galley kitchen, open concept, inground pool, convenient location. SAUGUS $250,000 Conveniently located 3 room condo offers 1 bedroom, updated kitchen and bath, and new flooring. ©2023 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity. FOR SALE FOR SALE- COME SEE THIS REMODELED 4 BEDROOM, 2 BATH CAPE FEATURING A BRAND NEW KITCHEN WITH STAINLESS APPLIANCES AND QUARTZ COUNTERS. RE-FINISHED HARDWOOD FLOORING, NEW HEATING SYSTEM, NEW 200 AMP ELECTRIC SERVICE, ALL NEW PLUMBING, NEW HOT WATER HEATER. NEW CENTRAL AC. NEW BATHROOMS WITH QUARTZ COUNTERS AND TILED TUB/SHOWERS. FRESH PAINT THROUGHOUT. PLENTY OF ROOM IN BASEMENT FOR EXPANSION. 1 CAR GARAGE. NOTHING TO DO BUT MOVE IN! WALKING DISTANCE TO SAUGUS CENTER, RAIL TRAIL AND THE VETS SCHOOL. SAUGUS $649,900 CALL KEITH 781-389-0791 COMING SOON COMING SOON-BRAND NEW CONSTRUCTION COLONIAL LOCATED ON A NICE SIDE STREET NOT FAR FROM ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS AND THE CENTER OF TOWN. 4 BEDS, 3.5 BATH WITH HARDWOOD THROUGHOUT. BEAUTIFUL KITCHEN AND BATHS. EXQUISITE DETAIL AND QUALITY BUILD. GARAGE UNDER. SAUGUS CALL KEITH 781-389-0791 COMING SOON COMING SOON- COMPLETELY REHABBED TWO FAMILY. LARGER UNIT IS 3 BED 2 BATHS, OTHER UNIT IS 2 BEDS, 1 BATH, WITH NEW SIDING, WINDOWS, ROOF, FLOORS, HEAT/AC, NEW DRIVEWAY, 2 CAR GARAGE, NEW KITCHENS & BATHROOMS. SAUGUS CALL KEITH 781-389-0791 LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL? FOR SALE FOR SALE-FOUR FAMILY INVESTMENT PROPERTY IN DOWNTOWN SQUARE AREA CLOSE TO PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION. EACH UNIT IS RENTED WITH LONG TERM TENANTS AND EACH UNIT HAS IT’S OWN SEPARATE ENTRANCE. TWO NEWER GAS HEATING SYSTEMS, SEPARATE ELECTRIC METERS, 2 DRIVEWAYS AND PARKING FOR UP TO 8 CARS. WILL BE DELIVERED OCCUPIED. PEABODY $975,500 CALL RHONDA 781-706-0842 DEBBIE MILLER 617-678-9710 CALL HER FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS LOOKING FOR EXPERIENCED AGENTS WHO WANT A NO HASSLE, NO NONSENSE OFFICE. WE ARE LOOKING FOR AGENTS WHO WANT TO MAKE A DECENT PAY WITHOUT PAYING HIGH FEES. ARE YOU A GO GETTER? PERHAPS BI-LINGUAL? CALL US TODAY! KEITH 781-389-0791
1 Publizr