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SAUGUS Your Local News & Sports Online. Subscribe Here! CAT D Vol. 25, No.49 CAT LIGHTING UP SAUGUS CENTER I TE -FREE- www.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday 781-233-4446 Friday, December 8, 2023 The challenge of Consensus Locating any marijuana establishments in Saugus will take a unanimous vote when hearings resume next Tuesday night By Mark E. Vogler t’s been two months since the hearings of seven companies seeking to obtain a special permit to open a retail pot shop in Saugus ended acrimoniously. The failure to notify the abutters of each of the businesses involved prompted the Board of Selectmen to continue their Oct. 7 hearings until after the Nov. 7 town election. Instead of hearing more testimony and voting on the issuance of up to three S-2 permits, then-Board of Selectmen Chair Anthony Cogliano engaged in 15 minutes of bitter discourse with then-Vice Chair Debra Panetta. They accused each other of unethical conduct in a divisive argument that may have contributed to a major power shift in the board’s leadership. Voters reelected all fi ve incumbent selectmen for a third consecutive two-year term. But Panetta – not Cogliano – will be presiding as chair when the board resumes the hearings for the S-2 permit at 7 p.m. Tuesday (Dec. 12) in the second fl oor auditorium at Saugus Town Hall. Cogliano lost the chairmanship position he’s held for the previous two terms when he fi nished fourth in a fi eld of seven candidates – 759 votes beCHALLENGE| SEE PAGE 2 Pitching in for the environment Youth & Recreation Department Director Crystal Cakounes was decked out with reindeer antlers festooned with bright portable Christmas lights as she gathered with a crowd of Saugonians last Friday (Dec. 1) despite the rainy weather to celebrate the town’s annual Tree Lighting and Festivities. Please see inside for the story and more photos. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) Selectman Anthony Cogliano joined the cleanup crew organized last Saturday at Crescent Marsh by WIN Waste Innovations, which removed more than 10,000 pounds of waste. Please see inside for more photos and story. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) 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 8, 2023 CHALLENGE | FROM PAGE 1 hind his chief political rival, Panetta, who got 473 more votes than the runner-up in the selectmen’s race. Panetta said she expects the hearings will go much smoother when they resume Tuesday night than at previous hearings. “We have seven applicants for marijuana retail licenses. Each applicant will come before the board and they will have an opportunity to speak,” Panetta told The Saugus Advocate this week. “I anticipate the board voting on Tuesday. All the abutters have been notified along with the applicants,” she said. Cogliano declined to comment on next week’s session. Selectman Michael Serino, who was critical of the way Cogliano had presided over the previous hearing sessions, also did not wish to comment. Selectman Corinne Riley maintained a positive outlook on the potential for one or more retail pot businesses locating in Saugus. “The marijuana hearings have been going on for several months. There were several good candidates that, in my opinion, were a good fit for our town,” Riley told The Saugus Advocate this week. “I look forward to wrapping up the hearings, if the board decides to do so, and getting one or two establishments on Route 1 for additional tax income,” she said. If a company receives the unanimous backing of the four selectmen who will vote, the next step would be to enter into a host community agreement with the town manager. And, finally, the Cannabis Control Commission would have to issue them a license. (Selectman Jeff Cicolini recused himself from participating in the hearings because of a potential conflict of interest – one of the seven Our 51st Anniversary Dan - 1972 We Sell Cigars & Accessories! 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Getting all four remaining selectmen votes poses a challenge, though, as Selectman Michael Serino had previously said that he would prefer to see a ballot question be put before Saugus voters. If Serino sticks to that position, the board won’t have the necessary votes to issue any S-2 permits. Even if Serino decides to participate in a vote, consensus remains a huge challenge, especially for Uma Flowers, which was the unanimous selection of the seven-member Marijuana Establishment Review Committee (MERC). In its report, the MERC ranked Uma Flowers as the best-suited location for an adult-use cannabis business in Saugus. With a proposed location at 24 Broadway (Route 1 North), Uma Flowers achieved a perfect score of 140 total points, based on an “exceptional” rating by each member in each of the five categories that were considered. But Cogliano has publicly criticized the MERC report and its top recommendation of Uma Flowers. Cogliano said he disagrees with the MERC for only recommending two permits, when it could have three. “I don’t agree with that report, whatsoever,” Cogliano said. He said the committee failed to do thorough research before making its recommendations. “That report is inconclusive. It makes no sense to me,” Cogliano said. Cogliano also said the MERC report was unfair and “vindictive” toward the businesses where he had disclosed a potential conflict. Panetta and Serino have questioned how he could be objective in voting with his potential conflicts of interest. There is also the matter of the town’s zoning bylaw that prohibits the locating of two recreational marijuana retail establishments within 1,000 feet of each other. Cogliano has openly supported the application of Bostica LLC, with a proposed site at 44 Broadway, the site of the former Donatello Ristorante and Oye’s Restaurant. It is situated close to Uma Flowers’ site. Attorney Valerio Romano, who represents Uma Flowers, noted in a letter to the board that “it is a reasonable inference that despite the MERC’s independent assessment, the chair believes that Bostica’s S-2 application should be awarded and Uma’s should be denied.” With only four of five selectmen voting, it appears possible that neither Uma Flowers nor Bostica can obtain enough votes for an S-2 permit. Both Selectmen Panetta and Serino said they believe comments Cogliano recently made about Uma Flowers could cost the town financially. “Quite frankly, I think we’re going to end up in a court battle here,” Serino said, referring to the detailed letter from Attorney Romano, which challenged several criticisms Cogliano made about Uma Flowers. Here is a summary of the MERC report’s ranking of the seven companies vying for the three S-2 permits. The review committee used a point system in recommending the two establishments that members believe were best suited for doing business in Saugus. · Uma Flowers, LLC with a proposed location at 24 Broadway (Route 1 North) – the site of a former house that was torn down – was the unanimous selection of the seven-member committee, achieving a perfect score of 140 total points, based on an “exceptional” rating by each member in each of the five categories that were considered. The site is considered ideal, as it is the farthest north on Route 1 near the Lynnfield line and the farthest away from the Malden dispensary, which is already open and operating. The site abuts conservation land, is already zoned appropriately and does not pose residential or school issues. · Sanctuary Medicinals, with a proposed location of 181 Broadway (Route 1 South), also received a favorable recommendation to be issued a special permit for zoning by selectmen to locate at the site of the former 99 Restaurant. The business received a total of 118 points out of a possible 140. “The Respondent’s proposed location is advantageous, and its extensive cannabis experience and current vertical integration business model are significant benefits,” the committee concluded in its analysis. “The Respondent appeared to be one of the strongest positioned to open, succeed, CHALLENGE| SEE PAGE 4

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 8, 2023 Page 3 Rep. Wong plans to seek another term at the statehouse next year By Mark E. Vogler S tate Rep. Donald Wong said he plans to seek an eighth two-year term representing voters of the Ninth Essex House District. “As long as I can still get things done for my community, I will continue to run,” the Saugus Republican said in an interview last Friday (Dec. 1) night as he stood near the entrance of Saugus Town Hall, waiting for the town’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festivities. “Once I feel as though I can’t get things done for my district, I will step down. But right now, I am able to get things down for communities and the Commonwealth. Precincts 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 in Saugus make up the core of the district, which also includes parts of Lynn and Wakefi eld. Wong has faced no opposition during the last two (2020 and 2022) elections. “I’m pretty fortunate in being able to work and get things done working with people on both sides of the aisle,” said Wong, who is the ranking minority member of the House Committee on Rules, the Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development, the Joint Committee on Racial Equity, Civil Rights and Inclusion, the Joint Committee on Rules and the Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development. Wong, who will turn 72 in January, has been a community leader for more than two decades. And since his election to the Legislature in 2010, HIS HOLIDAY BEST: State Rep. Donald Wong (D-Saugus) wore a festive Christmas tie last Friday night as he stood near the entrance of Saugus Town Hall, waiting for the town’s Annual Tree Lighting and Festivities to begin. Wong said he plans to seek reelection to his Ninth Essex House District seat next year. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) he’s been a local leader for three communities. “Pretty soon, we will be working on the state budget for the next fi scal year [which begins July 1, 2024]. I’m already talking to offi cials in three communities I represent to see what they need,” Wong said. Before getting elected to the State House, Wong served as chairman of the Saugus Board of Selectmen (2007-2011) and was a member of the Saugus Annual Town Meeting (20052007). He is a third generation Chinese American. He, along with state Rep. Tackey Chan (D-Quincy), were the fi rst Asian Americans elected to the state Legislature in 2010. Wong and his wife Jeannie have three grown children. He is a businessman and president of Kowloon Group, Inc. which manages the Kowloon Restaurant – a popular Route 1 restaurant owned by three generations of his family at the same location for seven decades. 425r Broadway, Saugus 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 8, 2023 ~ The Old Sachem ~ Sachems in the early Seventies Seasons T By Bill Stewart he Lynn Item recently had two items of interest; the first was for listing their all-time football players of the year: John Dancewicz (1966), Dan Hearey (1970), John Nicolo (1975), Joe Barressi (1987) and Raphael Zammit (1998). The second was listing Art Spinney, who was All-Scholastic in 1944 in their all-time list. Hockey was once again a prime sport in the winter season. The 1970 Sachems won the N.E. Conference ChamGerry 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 pionship with a record of 11 wins, 1 loss to Beverly, and ties to St. John’s Prep and Winthrop. The first line of George Lasquade, Dan Heaney and Bob Tilley were outstanding, as were the defense of Mike O’Hearn and Bill Babcock, and Bud Merrifield in net. In 1972 the Sachems’ record was 115-4 and they beat Woburn in double overtime 3-2. Captains were Mike Ferreira, John O’Neil, Rich Murphy and Jeff Blanchard. Other players included Mike Whyte, Keven Wall and Jeff Blanchard. The 1971 soccer team was the first ever for the Sachems. The 1974 squad was the first SHS soccer team to play in the league, which they won. The team included Will Stewart, Jimmy Scannell and the Couterier boys, Scott and Dave. They made the state tourney for the first time but were beaten by a team that had played the game for years, Newton. The boys’ gymnastic team of 1971 recorded 9 wins and 2 losses. Captains were Andrew Johnson and Gerald Desisto. The 1972 boys’ basketball team qualified for the state tourney. Their captain was Bill MacDonald. Vern Spinosa and Scott Millea were selected to the Northeastern Conference All-Stars. Their record was 14 wins and 6 losses. In the State Tourney, they beat Lynn English, 59-58, then lost to AnCHALLENGE | FROM PAGE 2 and provide minimal or mandover 36-55. The 1974 team had a record of 15 and 3, second place in the N.E. Conference, and in the Tech Tourney, they beat Chelmsford and lost to Melrose. Rick Lanney was the star and Mike Spinosa and Doug Ross contributed largely. Girls’ sports were getting attention in the fall seasons of the seventies. The Sachems had a field hockey team in 1973 that made it to second place in the Northeastern Conference. Their record was 5 wins, 2 losses and a tie. The captains were Joan Romejko and Margaret Crotty. Other players were Joanne Maheris, Maureen Sullivan, Maura Mansfield, Betty Hubner, Beverly Howard, Audrey Golden, Felice Napolitano, Denice Marshall, Sandy Dorgan, Julie Wright, Nancy Barrett and Kathy LeGrow. The girls’ gymnastic team competed for the first time in 1973 led by seniors Janet and Jeanne Keohane and Debbie Smith. The squad in 1974 was captained by Andrea Pelosi and Kathy Cargill, who competed in state competition. Girls’ basketball had a successful season in 1971 with a record of 8 wins and 3 losses. Captains were Meredith Maxwell and Debbie LeDrew. Other players were Lew Anne Wall, Linda Scaramozzino, Christine Rossetti, Susan Canfield, June ageable impact to the surrounding neighborhood,” it “The Old Sachem,” Bill Stewart (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Joanie Allbee) Cristiano, Krista deSteuben, Darlene Barrett, Rose Marston, Diane Carr, Susan Bishop, Pat Melchianno and Kathy Koschei. The 1972 team ran a record of 9 and 1. Margaret Crotty and Joan Romejko were captains and Scaramozzino was the star with 104 points. The team included Terry Green, Judith Tremblay, Deborah Kornatowski, Kathryn Bucold, Penelope Boucher, Krista de Steuben, Theresa Colyer, Beverly Stead, Wendy Waybright and Kathleen Koschei. (Editor’s Note: Bill Stewart, who is better known to Saugus Advocate readers as “The Old Sachem,” writes a weekly column about sports – and sometimes he opines on current or historical events or famous people.) noted. The committee concluded that the other five companies that responded to an RFI earlier this year “did not meet the criteria necessary to earn a recommendation from the Review Committee at this time.” Committee members included Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree, Police Chief Michael Ricciardelli, Fire Chief Michael Newbury, Director of Public Health John R. Fralick III, Procurement Director Michele Wendell. Vice Chair of the Saugus Planning Board Jeanette Meredith and Building Commissioner Michael LaVecchia. The Review Committee spent more than 65 hours as a group – totaling more than 455 individual hours – that entailed reviewing RFIs, conducting research, meeting the Respondents, performing site visits and listening to presentations. The CHALLENGE| SEE PAGE 6

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 8, 2023 Page 5 Parson Roby Chapter of NSDAR receives gifted heirlooms of Bell and Gavel T he National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) Regent Gail Cassarino rang the original bell once used at the Roby Elementary School, bringing back some fond childhood memories. As she shook the more-than-acentury-old bell at the Dec. 2 meeting of the Parson Roby Chapter of the NSDAR, history rang out sweetly amidst melodic applause at the MEG Center. Gail told us the story about her neighbor Julia Hurll Aston. Julia’s mom, Mrs. Margaret Hurll, was a teacher at the Saugus Roby Elementary School. Gail, the 2023 Founders Day Woman of the Year, recalled her childhood days when she had Mrs. Hurll as a third grade teacher. “When we went to school, they would ring the old fashioned bell to begin school, for recess and to end school,” she reminisced. “Some years later, the electric bell system was installed and Mrs. Hurll was given the original bell. Her daughter Julia kept it after her mother’s death. She often thought about giving it to the Historical Society, but after our ‘ringing of the bells’ event, Julia asked if we would be interested in that original bell to ring at future events,” Gail said. The NSDAR regent was referring to this past Constitution Day (Sept. 17) observed at Saugus Town Hall when she and others who attended the ceremony rang bells to mark the occasion in what she hopes will be the start of a town tradition. After the bell ringing and reminiscing at the monthly NSDAR meeting, there was more history to experience. Member Janice Jarosz gifted the Parson Roby Chapter a gavel carved out of the Parson Roby tree. (Editor’s Note: This info is from an article was submitted by Joanie Allbee, recording secretary and photographer for the Parson Roby Chapter of NSDAR.) Gail Cassarino, regent of the Parson Roby Chapter of the NSDAR, rang the antique Roby Elementary School bell that her neighbor Julia Hurll Aston recently gifted to the chapter. (Courtesy photo of Joanie Allbee) Janice Jarosz (left), a member of the Parson Roby Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR), recently gifted a gavel carved out of the Saugus Parson Roby elm tree. Regent Gail Cassarino (right) accepted it on behalf of the chapter. (Courtesy photo of Joanie Allbee) 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

Page 6 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 8, 2023 A Saugus police offi cer from a legacy lawman’s family gets lieutenant’s promotion F red Forni, a third generation Saugus Police officer, was recently promoted to lieutenant. Forni is a 27year veteran of the department, serving the last decade as a sergeant. Law enforcement runs deep in the Forni family. Lt. Forni’s father – the late Frederick Louis Forni – served for 11 years as a patrolman. His career as a cop was cut short in 1969 when he was seriously wounded in a gun battle with three armed robbers that claimed the life of Saugus Officer Augustine Belmonte. Patrolman Forni died in August 2021 – 52 years later – from complications of his gunshot wound to the chest. The new lieutenant is the grandson of the late Frederick Forni, who served as Saugus Police Chief from 1963 to 1978. He was in charge when his son suffered the career-ending bullet wound. Saugus Police Detective Stacey Forni is married to Lt. Forni. She was hired by the Police Department in 1995 and worked as a patrolman until 2013 when she was assigned to a detective position. She specializes in handling domestic assault and domestic violence cases. The Fornis have two children. Lt. Forni’s brother, Michael, is a trooper with the Massachusetts State Police. 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 PROMOTED: Recently appointed Saugus Police Lt. Fred Forni (center) is congratulated by Police Chief Michael Ricciardelli (left) and Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) CHALLENGE | FROM PAGE 4 committee also created a Respondent Evaluation Rubric, which ranked the respondents on fi ve key categories: their response, business model, impact, location and direct experience. Triple M Ventures finished third in the ranking, with 92 points. The committee expressed major concerns about the proposed dispensary site at 1393 Broadway, the current home of All Tune & Lube car repair services. The proposed site is not able to support enough parking for the proposed dispensary. There are concerns about access off of Route 1. The site also abuts a residential neighborhood and is located very close to the Saugus Middle-High School. Conclusion: “The proposed location does not meet the Town’s zoning by-laws. In addition, the Respondent did not submit what was required in the RFI related to the planning, approvals, and time required to make the proposed premises at 1393 Broadway a viable site. However, the Review Committee found the Respondent’s retail cannabis business experience and operations were professional.” Olde World Remedies finished fourth in the ranking with 35 points. The committee noted in its report that the proposed location at 173 Main St. – a current exotic car dealership – “presents several challenges.” The location is within view of the Saugus Middle-High School. Access to the site has a Main Street off ramp curb cut. Conclusion: “The Review Committee has serious concerns about the Respondent’s proposed Saugus location and the challenges present during the Lynn site visit.” Northeastcann fi nished fi fth in the ranking with 32 points. The committee found the proposed site at 1529 Broadway, the current Avalon Motel, as “adequate.” But the committee was concerned about its proximity to existing cannabis retail businesses operating in Malden and Melrose. Access to the site is diffi cult, due to signifi cant traffi c congestion in the immediate area. In addition, the current and future development of Essex Landing has already added significant traffi c and roadway layout challenges, according to the committee. Conclusion: “The lack of an open retail cannabis business and verifi able cannabis retail experience are a concern to the Review Committee. In addition, the proposed location presents negative impact concerns and challenges.” Bostica, LLC finished sixth in the ranking with 25 points. The proposed site at 44 Broadway, the site of the former Donatello Ristorante and Oye’s Restaurant, raised some concerns for the committee, particularly its close proximity to local residences. Conclusion: “The Respondent has no retail operational cannabis business experience. While the Respondent has substantial investor financing in the Lynn grow/cultivation facility and it seems promising, the lack of a proven track record and specifi c details about how its retail cannabis business would operate is a concern to the Review Committee. The Respondent lacked adequate and/or no direct experience in the industry of Adult Use Marijuana Retail Establishment dispensaries.” Broadway Cannabis fi nished last in the ranking with 0 points. Its proposed location at 1268 Broadway, the site of the former Out of Asia restaurant, presents signifi cant challenges, according to the committee. The site is located close to residences and there are access issues. There are existing cannabis businesses already open and operating nearby in Malden and Melrose. Conclusion: “The Respondent’s proposed location is not ideal, and the Response was missing key pieces of information. The proposal was non-responsive to parts of the RFI. The Review Committee has serious concerns about whether this Respondent could successfully complete the buildout necessary to open a dispensary. Furthermore, the Respondent has no experience operating an Adult Use Marijuana Retail Establishment. The Respondent lacked adequate and/or no direct experience in the industry of Adult Use Marijuana Retail Establishment dispensaries.”

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 8, 2023 Page 7 WIN Waste leads cleanup Volunteers help company remove more than 10,000 pounds of waste strewn across Crescent marsh A work crew of community volunteers, local veterans, elected officials and WIN Waste Innovations employees collaborated last Saturday (Dec. 2) on a cleanup of Crescent March, which is situated on Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) land on Route 107 in Saugus. By the time the three-hour cleanup had been completed, the volunteers had removed more than 10,000 pounds of waste – including everyday litter, tires, mattresses, car seats and rugs. “As a sustainable environmental services company, illegal dumping is something we hate to see in our communities,” WIN Waste Innovations Senior Director of Communications & Community Mary UrMary Urban of WIN Waste Innovations loaded tires that were removed from the marsh area. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) ban said in a press release issued by the company. “We appreciate the opportunity to work with MassDOT and area residents to clean up this area and keep this trash from entering the marsh and our waterways. We are constantly striving to make a positive impact in the community and we appreciate all those who welcome and support our efforts,” Urban said. The cleanup was an extension of WIN Waste Innovations’ Adopt A Highway and Visibility Project partnerships with MassDOT. Through those agreements, WIN Waste contributes to the upkeep of land on both sides of Route 107 in the Rumney Marsh Area of Critical Environmental Concern. Veterans from VFW Post 2346 in Saugus joined the cleanup, as did Saugus Selectman Anthony Cogliano, Revere Councillor-at-Large Anthony Zambuto and members of the Belle Isle Rotary. “I was happy to participate in The cleanup of Rt. 107 along with my friend and Revere City Councilor, Tony Zambuto,” Cogliano told The Saugus Advocate. “The cleanup was part of WIN Waste Innovations ‘Adopt a highway’ program in conjunction with the MassDOT. Thanks to all the volunteers that participated. Much appreciated,” Cogliano said. 8 Norwood St. Everett (617) 387-9810 Open Daily 4:00 PM Closed Sunday Announcing our Classic Specials Dine In Only: Some of the volunteers who participated in the cleanup (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) Judge orders Saugus man to pay back more than $18,000 he stole while working as a postal clerk in Marblehead W hile working as a sales associate for the Marblehead Post Office, Zeon Johnson stole more than $18,000 in government funds – including cash funds paid by customers for stamps and issuing United States Postal Service (USPS) money orders payable to himself. But the 28-year-old Saugus man won’t have to do any jail time after striking a plea agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Boston. Johnson pleaded guilty on Sept. 6 to one count of conversion of government money. U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris sentenced Johnson to time served (one day in prison) and two years of supervised release. Johnson was also ordered to pay $18,206 in restitution to USPS, according to a press release issued this week by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. “For much of his employment, Johnson engaged in a premeditated, recurring scheme to convert money from the US Postal Service by taking money that customers paid for stamps and money orders, providing voided money orders to customers and issuing fraudulent money orders to himself,” prosecutors wrote in a sentencing memo. Beginning in approximately August 2018, Johnson worked as a Sales and Service Distribution Associate for USPS at the Marblehead Post Office. As part of his job, Johnson sold stamps and processed money order transactions for USPS customers. From approximately July 2019 through June 2020, Johnson converted over $18,000 in USPS funds for personal use by stealing cash funds paid by customers for stamps and issuing USPS money orders payable to himself. As part of his fraudulent scheme, Johnson sold a $1,000 money order to a customer, who later learned that his payment was rejected. Investigators said Johnson had sold the customer a money order that he had cashed previously. Investigators said Johnson had minimized his crimes, telling them in a 2020 interview that he only stole $3,000 in fraudulent money orders. * FREE Salad with purchase of Entree, Monday & Tuesdays * Cheese Pizza - Only $10 Catch ALL The Live Sports Action On Our Large Screen TV’s HOLIDAY SHOP LOCAL & DROP BY FOR DINNER! www.eight10barandgrille.com Law Offices of JOSEPH D. CATALDO, P.C. “ATTORNEYS AND COUNSELORS AT LAW” • ESTATE/MEDICAID PLANNING • WILLS/TRUSTS/ESTATES • INCOME TAX PREPARATION • WEALTH MANAGEMENT • RETIREMENT PLANNING • ELDER LAW 369 Broadway Everett, MA 02149 (617)381-9600 JOSEPH D. CATALDO, CPA, CFP, MST, ESQUIRE. AICPA Personal Financial Specialist Designee

Page 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 8, 2023 Fun in the rain Wet weather doesn’t dampen spirits at Saugus Center; Santa and petting zoo draw crowd for Tree Lighting event A large crowd showed up early to Saugus Center last Friday (Dec. 1) for the town’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Festivities. Hundreds gathered on the lawn outside Saugus Town Hall to enjoy three hours of community fun and fellowship that featured Santa Claus’ arrival, the popular petting zoo, hot chocolate cookies, continuous holiday music, tractor-drawn sleigh rides, bounce houses, a trackless train, an opportunity for kids to get their photos taken with Santa Claus and the fi rst night’s display of thousands of colorful holiday lights in downtown Saugus to welcome the holiday season. Guy Moley brightened the holiday spirits of many Saugus kids and their parents as he played the part of Santa Claus for this year’s event, sitting back in a chair set up in the library’s front entrance. (Saugus Advocate photos by Mark E. Vogler) Braydon Berdy-Baker, 4, of Saugus, tried to make friends with Harley, a 1-year-old female bunny that was held by Jeannie Meredith underneath the tent covering the petting zoo. Domenic Bruzzese, 8, a second-grader, tried to relate with this big brown chicken that perched on his arm. Joline Jurczyk, of Winchendon’s Animal Craze Traveling Petting Zoo, cuddled Pecan the pig. Joe Vecchione and his daughter Amelia, 3 ½, are shown near Frosty, the giant infl ated snowman. Board of Selectmen Chair Debra Panetta (right) admired the big brown chicken held by Jeannie Meredith.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 8, 2023 Page 9 Youth & Recreation Department staffers Melvin Hernandez, Kate Grant, Emily Grant and Liza Manuele waited on the crowd at the hot chocolate table. Crystal Surette held her 1-year-old baby, Madeline, during her visit with Santa. She got to see him as an infant last year. Brian Cross did the honors again, as the DJ of the night, playing holiday music. Lily Erikson, 8, of Saugus, got to be the first kid to greet Santa Claus this year. Brielle Doherty, 3, sat with Santa Claus at last Friday night’s Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festivities. Santa waves to the crowd. Annual Tree Lighting and Festivities Children gather near the entrance at Town Hall to turn on the switch. The Saugus High School Band performed in the rain underneath a tarp set up on the front lawn at Town Hall. The crowd waits for Santa Claus. The Christmas lights go on, marking the start of the holiday season in Saugus.

Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 8, 2023 Two Saugus Youth Cheer teams, including Saugus and Revere residents, compete in Nationals By Tara Vocino F or the 2023 season, two Saugus Youth Cheer teams flew to Florida this past Wednesday for a chance to take home a National Championship for Saugus. They performed their routines at Belmont STEAM Academy on Sunday night for families and friends. “This is the ultimate goal and dream for any cheerleader,” Cheer Director/12U Sachems Coach Charlene Berridge said. “Win or lose, I am always so proud of each and every cheerleader in our program.” Saugus Youth Football & Cheer President Greg Bluestein said the journey began this spring when the cheer program hosted its first ever spring clinics. The interest in the program shot up, thanks to the dedication of Berridge and Cheer coaches. “Since August, these 63 girls have worked with great enthusiasm and energy,” Bluestein said. “Our coaches are incredible and spend countless hours, unpaid and on their own time, to help these athletes reach their goal.” Agreeing, Summer O’Brien, a U12 Sachems cheerleader from Saugus, said it’s really exciting to make it to Nationals. “Some of us have been cheering together since kindergarten, so it means even more to go together,” Summer said. Bluestein said the families are incredibly supportive and “the best fan section” at every competition. And he added that Berridge is invested and dedicated to make this the best cheer program in the North Shore. Berridge said she feels so blessed to get a front row seat to watch all of the teams at practices, games and competitions. “These cheerleaders have had such an outpouring of support from our community,” Berridge said. “Many have contributed so much to these families in order to offset the cost of this expensive and last-minute journey. Then, many came out to see them perform on Sunday for the last time in Saugus at a pep rally along with NCYFC Elite and Beverly.” Berridge said she wishes all of the teams the best of luck. The U8 cheer team is coached by Head Coach Jenn Kohr alongside Assistant Coaches Jill Lauziere, Stephanie Bluestein, Stephanie Marquez and Courtney Whitehurst and Junior Coach Audrina Giglio. “The team took first place in all four of their competitions this season, which included first place at the Regional Championship,” Berridge said. “This team of young athletes pushed hard all season putting together a spectacular routine.” After each competition, they came back stronger than ever. Berridge said she is so proud of the coaches and athletes and all that they accomplished this season. “They may be young but they are fierce,” Berridge said. The U12 Cheer Team is led by Head Coach Charlene Berridge alongside Assistant Coaches Allison DiPietro, Casey Alexandre, Jennifer Westerfield and Brooke Brennan and Junior Coaches Camryn Berridge, Kateri Byrd and Katie Barletta. “This team took first place at three out of their four competitions and took third place at the Regional Championship,” Berridge said. “Many of us have been together for many cheer seasons.” This team of 33 athletes is made up of 22 returning cheerleaders and 11 new. This team of athletes seemed to really complement one another. They remained determined and focused on preparing for each competition, according to Berridge. U12 Sachems cheerleader Hannah Strout said this is her first season as a cheerleader, and she never expected to make so many friends and have such great memories. “I’m so excited to have earned our place at Nationals,” Hannah said. “Hopefully, we come home with a trophy.” The NCYFC Elite team is coached by Carrie Stanley (NCYFC Cheer Director) alongside Heather Mason (Beverly), Stacy Vercellini (Melrose), Brooke Brennan (Saugus) and Kelliegh Moses (Charlestown). “This is NCYFC Elite’s first cheer season, which included cheerleaders from Saugus, Peabody, Revere, Melrose and Beverly,” Berridge said. “Two of our own Saugus cheerleaders, Aryanna DiPietro and Holly Berridge, both tried out and made the Elite team.” This team has showcased this season at three competitions and is now heading to Nationals. NCYFC Director Carrie Stanley said the NCYFC is excited to announce its first ever Elite Cheer team – “16 girls from five towns in our organization will come together and make history, as they represent for the first time the NCYFC at AYC Nationals,” Stanley said. Stanley said of the Beverly Panthers that they’re mini but mighty; these six athletes ages eight to 10 from Beverly will compete in Florida this weekend for a chance at the National Title. “It’s been a team effort, and we have beaten some amazing towns to represent New England in Nationals,” Bluestein said. “At the end of the day, these amazing young athletes are the ones on the mat doing these incredible stunts and executing their routines.” (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) 12U Sachems Flyers, shown from left to right: Summer O’Brien, Erica Mpwagi, Mia Powers, Holly Berridge, Liliana Fronduto and Brayleigh Caruso. Northeast Elite in action: Coach Stacy Vercellini and Isabella Marin basing, Holly Berridge flying, Olivia Natale backspotting, Jaylena Funez and Addison Cioffi basing and Lily Burby backspotting. The 8U Sachems displayed their regional trophy. Northeast Elite, shown from left to right: Front row: Holly Berridge, Charlotte Harrity and Daesha Mercier; middle row: Olivia Natale, Aryanna DiPietro, Addison Cioffi, Avery Mason, Katherine Aborn and Coach Stacy Vercellini; back row: Cheer Director Carrie Stanley, Head Coach Heather Mason, Lauren Carson, Gianna Vercellini, Lily Burby, Isabella Marin, Sophia Keane and Coach Kelliegh Moses.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 8, 2023 Page 11 8U Sachems, shown from left to right: Front row: Charlotte Applegate, Lillian Lopresti, Aaliyah Velasquez, Hadley Nichols, Avaleigh Kohr, Evelyn Powers and Giabella Lorenzo; second row: Caroline Gianatassio, Audrey Gregorio, Grace Whitehurst, Tatum Hoy, Francesca Lincoln, Isabella Bluestein, Grace Lester and Julianna Damico; third row: Elena Melon, Karen Boyd, Evelyn Lauziere, Melissa Santos, Mila McDonough, Alessandra Mactaggart, Brynn Clifford and Olivia Zawadzki; fourth row: Dakota Dost, Anaya Boyd, Madison Giglio and Josephine Vitiello; back row: coaches Stephanie Bluestein, Courtney Whitehurst, Audrina Giglio, Jenn Kohr, Jill Lauziere and Stephanie Marquez. Missing from photo: Faith Harrington and Stella Bac. 12U Sachems, shown from left to right: First row: Liliana Fronduto, Brayleigh Caruso, Bianca Catanzariti, Summer O’Brien, Reese Bruno, Aubrey McKay, Aris Emmanuel and Anya Scandone; middle row: Holly Berridge, Ellie Miranda, Amelia Westerfield, Anna Ly, Hannah Strout, Samantha Williams, Adriana Amoroso, Frankie Bashaw, Sarah Mendes and Isabella Pagliarulo; back row: Kallyanne Kim, Aryanna DiPietro, Erica Mpwagi, Keira Mannetta, Alana MacTaggart, Julianna Cascio, Kaylee Durand, Mia Powers, Sky Gerardi, Giuliana Frost and Averie Ancrum. Coaches, shown from left to right: Allison DiPietro, Jennifer Westerfield, Camryn Berridge and Charlene Berridge. Missing from photo: Coach Casey Alexandre, Sophia Alexandre, Sophia Machado and Viviana Barrera. School Committee Member-Elect Stephanie Mastrocola (far left) congratulated the two Saugus teams at Belmont STEAM Academy on Sunday night. The 8U Sachems in action: Flyers, shown from left: Hadley Nichols, Avaleigh Kohr, Charlotte Applegate, Giabella Lorenzo and Amelia Lewis made a pyramid, and their leg is in a hitch. The Northeast Elite in action: Daesha Mercier flying, Olivia Natale front spotting, Avery Mason and Katherine Aborn basing, Lily Burby backstopping and Gianna Vercellini doing motions in front. Parents cheered on the cheerleaders during their performance. Teams in members in red, white and blue: NCYFC and Northeast Elite (athletes from Saugus, Revere, Peabody, Beverly & Melrose), pictured from left to right: First row: Avery Mason, Daesha Mercier, Charlotte Harrity and Katherine Aborn; second row: Olivia Natale, Sophia Keane, Addison Cioffi, Isabella Marin, Jayelna Funez and Lily Burby; third row: Gianna Vercellini and Lauren Carson; back row: NCYFC Cheer Director Carrie Stanley, Northeast Elite Head Coach Heather Mason, Beverly Asst. Coach Angel Martin and Beverly Head Coach Erin Deschenes. Beverly athletes (black/orange uniforms), shown from left to right: Sage Blanchard, Pyper Jayne Liacos, Karissa Mezakowski, Daphne Reilly, Gisselyz Suazo and Alisha Rodriguez. Saugus athletes (red uniforms), shown from left to right: Front row: Grace Whitehurst, Charlotte Applegate, Madison Giglio, Lillian Lopresti, Audrey Gregorio, Melissa Santos, Evelyn Powers, Giabella Lorenzo, Grace Lester, Amelia Lewis, Elena Melon, Olivia Zawaszki and Alessandra MacTaggart; second row: Caroline Gianatassio, Josephine Vitiello, Karen Boyd, Julianna Damico, Brynn Clifford, Tatum Hoy, Mila McDonough, Evelyn Lauziere, Aaliyah Velasquez, Avaleigh Kohr, Hadley Nichols, Francesca Lincoln and Isabella Bluestein; third row: Dakota Dost. Saugus athletes (black uniforms), shown from left to right: Front row: Mia Powers; second row: Ellie Miranda; third row: Alana MacTaggart, Kaylee Durand, Summer O’Brien, Bianca Catanzariti, Brayleigh Caruso, Holly Berridge, Hannah Strout, Averie Ancrum, Amelia Westerfield, Frankie Bashaw, Aryanna DiPietro, Isabella Pagliarulo, Aris Emmanuel and Kiera Manetta; fourth row: Erica Mpwagi, Selina Jiang, Liliana Fronduto, Anna Ly, Samantha Williams, Reese Bruno, Sarah Mendes, Julianna Cascio, Guilianna Frost, Adriana Amoroso, Sky Gerardi, Aubrey McKay, Kallyanne Kim and Anya Kim; fifth row: Coaches Charlene Berridge, Camryn Berridge, Stephanie Bluestein, Stephanie Marquez, Jennifer Westerfield and Allison DiPietro.

Page 12 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 8, 2023 Tree Lighting drew good crowd on a bad night Spirits not dampened as raindrops kept falling on their heads; Santa and the petting zoo were the big draw By Mark E. Vogler S ome town officials overseeing the preparations for last Friday night’s annual Tree Lighting and Festivities worried that the rainy weather might keep many Saugus residents at home. But Jen Erikson disagreed any suggestion that the rainy weather spoiled the night for Saugus residents who converged on Saugus Center. “I think the rain added something to it,” said Erikson, who waited in the rain outside the entrance to the Saugus Public Library as her eight-year-old daughter spent some time with Santa Claus. “There’s a lot of people here. This is a good crowd. The weather doesn’t matter,” she said. That was clear from the large number of parents pushing baby carriages covered with plastic to keep their tots dry. Crystal Surette, a 2003 Saugus High School graduate, said the weather wasn’t bad enough to keep her one-yearold daughter Madeline away from seeing Santa. “This is her second time and she’s happy to be here,” Surette said. “She came as an infant last year. And this has been a family tradition for 10 years now,” she said. The weather didn’t keep Joe Vecchione from enjoying the night with his three-year-old daughter Amelia. “I did it as a kid for many years; now I’m doing it as a dad,” Vecchione said as he held his daughter as she admired the giant inflatable snowman. “I love seeing her face. She looks forward to seeing all of these lights. It’s a kickoff to Christmas. And like most kids, she’s obsessed with Christmas,” he said. A parking lot tragedy DA says father who died of knife wounds may have accidentally stabbed himself outside Kowloon restaurant I nitially, police thought Patrick Kenney, Jr. was a stabbing victim of a potential crime when he was found in the parking lot of Kowloon Restaurant last Saturday (Dec. 2) night, bleeding from an apparent knife wound. There were concerns about a suspicious death because of a Thanksgiving Eve fight that forced the owners to close the restaurant bar early. Four people have been charged in connection with that incident. But, as investigators viewed the scene, there were no apparent signs of foul play. Kenney, 42, a Milton father Event Date: 120523 Event: Saugus vs Revere Location: Saugus High School/Middle School Photographer: Emily Harney Score: Scrimmage of young twins, was rushed to Massachusetts General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead a short time later. “This incident appears to be accidental, and no additional parties are believed to be involved,” said a press release issued this week by Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker’s Office. “It remains an active and ongoing investigation by the Essex County District Attorney’s Office State Police Detective Unit and detectives from the Saugus Police Department.” Tucker’s office gave no further explanation of Kenney’s suspected accident, which occurred sometime before 9 p.m. last Saturday. Meanwhile, there have been media reports that said Kenney accidentally stabbed himself with a knife fastened to a lanyard around his neck. “The DA has nothing new at this time to add and we cannot confirm the cause of death as it is still under investigation pending the OCME reports,” the DA’s Chief of Staff, Sharyn Lubas, said yesterday. Lubas was referring to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, which is reviewing evidence in the case before making an official ruling on the cause of death. Underneath a tarp that covered the petting zoo, fouryear-old Braydon Berdy-Baker was preoccupied with Harley – the one-year-old girl rabbit – one of 17 animals that Animal Craze of Winchendon, Mass., brought to Saugus. The boy’s grandmother, Alice Berdy, said the weather was much better last year. But the rain didn’t matter to Braydon or his family. “We know the petting zoo is his favorite,” said Berdy, a Saugus resident who moved here four years ago from New Jersey. The weather did present a special challenge to Brian Cross, the DJ for the event. He had to leave some of his audio equipment at home so it wouldn’t get damaged by the rain. He loaded about 100 Christmas and holiday songs into his cell phone and had it hooked up to the speakers set up at the top of the Town Hall steps. “The favorite song is probably ‘Santa Claus is Coming to Town,’” said Cross, a 2013 Saugus High graduate. But last night was just a warmup for Cross, who is looking forward to working as DJ for the town’s Christmas Eve parade, something he’s been doing since 2014. THIS WEEK ON SAUGUS TV Sunday, Dec. 10 from 9–11 p.m. on Channel 8 – “Sunday Night Stooges” (The Three Stooges). Monday, Dec. 11 all day on Channel 8 – “Movie Monday” (classic movies). Tuesday, Dec. 12 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 22 – Boys Basketball vs. Lynnfield from Dec. 10. Wednesday, Dec. 13 at 4:30 p.m. on Channel 22 – Color Day 2023. Thursday, Dec. 14 at 1 p.m. on Channel 22 – Girls Basketball vs Georgetown from Dec. 7. Friday, Dec. 15 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 9 – Library Board of Trustees from Dec. 14. Saturday, Dec. 16 at 1:30 p.m. on Channel 22 – “Our Infinite Universe: Is there other life?” documentary. Saugus TV can be seen on Comcast Channels 8 (Public), 9 (Government) & 22 (Educational). ***programming may be subject to change without notice*** For complete schedules, please visit www.saugustv.org Revere vs Saugus Basketball Nathan Soroko goes up for a basket for the Sachem’s. Saugus boys’ basketball coach Joseph Bertrand chats with his team before the took on Revere in the last scrimmage before the season opener. Danny Shea with the ball for the Sachem’s.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 8, 2023 Page 13 The Sounds of Saugus By Mark E. Vogler Good morning, Saugus! The management of Chestnut Woods Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center in Saugus has a unique way of getting involved in the Christmas spirit of giving. In a recent press release, officials announced a program they’re calling “Operation Santa Paws.” It’s essentially a pet supplies drive they are running to help needy pets at a local animal shelter. A flier that lists “acceptable supplies for donations” asks members of the community to “Help us give back this holiday season as we collect pet supplies to donate.” “Through Dec. 22, the skilled nursing facility at 73 Chestnut St. welcomes donated items such as blankets and towels, dog and cat beds, unopened pet food/treats, pet toys, grooming products, collars and leashes, and food/water bowls,” the press release noted. “Therapy animals play a vital role in long-term care residents’ lives, particularly those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Benefits of animal therapy for seniors include emotional uplift, increased self-esteem, improved social skills, and reduced risk of depression and anxiety.” If you have friends and loved ones at this hometown nursing home who benefit from animal-assisted therapy visits – or if you just genuinely support this noble cause, you might want to check it out. For more information, visit ChestnutWoodsRehab.com. Happy Hanukkah A year ago, an anti-Semitic banner displayed on a Route 1 overpass declared “JEWS DID 9/11,” prompting a public outcry. It motivated then-Board of Selectmen Chair Anthony Cogliano to call for a public Menorah Lighting Ceremony on the front lawn of Saugus Town Hall. Cogliano said he hoped it would become an annual holiday tradition in Saugus, which hadn’t been done in years. Looks like the tradition has continued, at least for another year. Yesterday (Thursday, Dec. 7) was the first day of Hanukkah, which will end next Friday (Dec. 15). At press time yesterday, town officials, members of the Jewish faith and supportive town residents were preparing for the second annual Menorah Lighting Ceremony on the lawn in front of Saugus Town Hall. Congregation Ahavas Shalom’s William and Maureen Appel were expected to lead the community in lighting the Menorah, which in Judaism symbolizes the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in the second century BCE when the Jewish people successfully rebelled against the Seleucid Empire. The lighting of the Menorah serves as a symbol of hope and resilience that reflects the triumph of light over darkness. In the spirit of the holiday season, we will share with you some upcoming holiday events that residents can enjoy this weekend. Breakfast with Santa The Saugus Knights of Columbus and the Saugus Catholic Women’s Guild are sponsoring a “Breakfast with Santa,” which will be held tomorrow (Saturday, Dec. 9) from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the Blessed Sacrament Hall (14 Summer St., Saugus). Santa will arrive at 10:30 a.m. The morning will consist of crafts, raffles, baked items, shopping and family fun. Among the marvelous raffles available to win are two Christmas trees with gift certificates, gift cards or lottery tickets. Living Nativity Scene tomorrow The New Hope Assembly will present a “Living Nativity Scene” tomorrow (Saturday, Dec. 9) from 2 to 5 p.m. at 9 Assembly Dr. in Saugus. This is a family-friendly event. Visitors to the event will get to experience live animals, complimentary refreshments and festive music. All are welcome and everything is free! New Hope desires those who come to be able to take a break from the busyness of the holiday season; to come breathe and share in the joy of Christmas. Church leaders invite Saugus residents to visit the Living Nativity. Santa visits Breakheart on Sunday If you didn’t have the chance to take your kids to see Santa Claus or get their picture taken with old Saint Nick at last Friday’s annual Tree Lighting and Festivities, you still have another opportunity. Plan on dropping by the Christopher P. Dunne Visitor Center at Breakheart Reservation at 177 Forest St. in Saugus. Santa Claus will be visiting Breakheart between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 10. A flier distributed by the Friends of Breakheart Reservation offers this invitation to the community: “Come by to meet FIRST SNOW OF THE SEASON: “Wallace the Pumpkin” at the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site received a light dusting of snow early Wednesday (Dec. 6) morning. Laura Eisener captured a photo of the first snowfall of the season that the town had seen before it melted away. (Courtesy photo of Laura Eisner) Santa and take a picture with your phone or camera. Spend a few minutes by the roaring fire enjoying the season and majesty of Breakheart. Candy canes from Santa and light refreshments will be served.” The state Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR), the Friends of Breakheart Reservation and Peter A. Rossetti Insurance are sponsoring the event. For more information, please call 781-233-1855 or 781-233-0834. Holiday event announcements welcomed Does your organization, church or business have plans for a holiday or holy event that they would like to publicize this month? Feel free to email an announcement or press release to mvoge@comcast.net, headlined “Holiday Happenings and Blessings.” Food Pantry notes The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry is open today (Friday, Dec. 8) 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 2023-24 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 received several this week: Precinct 5 Town Meeting Member Ron Wallace: “I would like to shout out to Fuddruckers which is closing on December 23rd after 35 years in Saugus. So many fundraisers and car shows, too many to count. A place that will be missed by so many! “Also shout out to Guy Moley and his ‘Mom’s Cancer Fighting Angels’ for putting on a rocking party last Saturday night!” Precinct 6 Town Meeting Member Jeanie Bartolo offered two “Shout Outs: “The Saugus Veterans Council Commander, Steve Castinetti, and all us Council members want to send out a huge ‘Shout Out’ and thank you to Saugus Cable TV’s John Prudent for the video he created honoring our Veterans for Veterans Day. A lot of hard work went into making this video and was watched many times over by the Veterans and Saugus residents to rave reviews. “This second ‘Shout Out’ goes to the Town’s DPW Department for the great job they did putting up this year’s Christmas lights. They absolutely outdid themselves, Saugus Center looks like a winter wonderland! Thank you for all your hard work not just at Christmas but all year long.” 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. Compost/Recycling DropOff Site closes tomorrow The Town of Saugus Compost/Recycling Drop-Off Site will be closed after tomorrow (Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023) and will reopen for recycling on the third Saturday of January, February and March 2024 weather permitting. Please note the following dates that the site will be open during the period from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Saturday January 20, 2024 Saturday February 17, 2024 Saturday March 16, 2024 Please contact Scott Brazis, Director of Solid Waste/Recycling, with any questions at 781231-4036. Who is “Walter the Pumpkin?” Laura Eisner, author of “Saugus Gardens,” which runs weekly in The Saugus Advocate, was very determined to get this photo. “I couldn’t let the first snow of the season go by without a picture! Here is ‘snow on Wallace the Pumpkin’ at Saugus Ironworks, taken this morning before the light dusting we got melted away,” she wrote me in an email Wednesday (Dec.6). Why do they call him “Wallace the Pumpkin,” I asked Laura. “The park rangers named the pumpkin Wallace after Wallace Nutting, an important figure in the Saugus Ironworks preservation story,” Laura wrote back. “To make a long story short, Nutting was a famous producer of nostalgic prints, wrote several books on historic sites in THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 16

Page 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 8, 2023 Saugus athletics director hopes fall’s sports triumphs are launchpad for winter success By Dom Nicastro T he 2023 fall athletic season at Saugus High School was filled with progress. The girls’ soccer team made the Round of 16 in the Division 3 tournament, falling to the No. 1 seed. The football team won five games after winning one in the last two seasons. The volleyball team made the postseason for the first time. Terri Pillsbury, Saugus’s athletics director, reflected on these accomplishments and shared some insights into the upcoming winter sports season in an interview with the Advocate this week. With fall sports concluding on a high note, Pillsbury expressed both pride in the accomplishments and optimism for the challenges of the winter season. She has been super impressed with the tenacity of Saugus’s teams thus far after one season for this school year and the community’s collective spirit behind its teams. Fall season recap Girls’ soccer: The team exhibited remarkable tenacity by holding a 0-0 score against North Reading in the opening round of the tournament. The teams battled to a scoreless draw after two halves and two overtimes before Saugus came on top in penalty kicks. It next faced the No. 1 seed, Medfield, and competed before falling, 1-0. Pillsbury praised the team’s emotional resilience. “It’s very easy for a team to have a little bit of an emotional letdown after that North Reading game,” she said, “but our girls showed up; they played so well.” Volleyball: Saugus’s volleyball team, under the direction of alumna and first-year coach Mikayla Niles, reached the tournament for the first time in its history, a significant achievement. The bus carrying the Sachems to their tournament game may have stalled – yes, right on the Mass. Pike – but the team certainly moved forward this season. It battled Chicopee in the postseason before falling, 3-2, ending its campaign with 11 wins. Football: There is a new sense of hope within the football program, with Pillsbury attributing the success to the dedication of the players. “Kudos to this year’s senior class,” she said. “Those guys went out and ... they really did work hard, and they should absolutely be commended for it.” In football, the focus is on rebuilding the team and recruiting new talent. Pillsbury is hopeful, despite the challenges: “We had a number of kids who either hadn’t ever played football before... or hadn’t been playing here in Saugus, and they were guys that went out and really worked hard to get in and get going,” she said. Winter season outlook With games starting up this weekend, Pillsbury shared some thoughts on the winter. The girls’ basketball team will be featuring a new coach – program alum and former assistant Joe Lowe. He takes over for Mark Schruender, who steps down to focus on his family after 10 seasons as varsity coach. Reflecting on the coaching transition, Pillsbury highlighted the legacy left by the retiring coach, noting the consistent success under his tenure: six straight tourney appearances and around 13-14 wins per season in that span. “That’s a testament to Mark and his way of doing things,” Pillsbury said. Terri Pillsbury SHS Athletics Director “He puts forward a consistent product, and a team that works hard and does the right thing.” Saugus also has three coop programs for the winter: boys’ hockey is with host Peabody for the second straight year; about 17 Saugus wrestlers will host about the same number of Peabody athletes; and Saugus athletes will compete for host Northeast Metro Tech swim. The hockey team, a program that won three state titles in a short span about 25 years ago, aims to reinstate its own program eventually. It has about nine Saugus hockey players it sends to Peabody this winter. Pillsbury is also excited about the prospects of the basketball program led by two Saugus alums: Joe Bertrand for the boys and Lowe for the girls. Each program last season won the Northeastern Conference Lynch Division. The athletics director also noted the resurgence of the track programs, with about 60 athletes combined for the boys’ and girls’ squads. That’s up nearly 100% from last winter. The discussion with Pillsbury underscored the resilience of Saugus High School’s athletic programs, cooperative program or not. Pillsbury’s reflections, brimming with pride and an unwavering commitment to her teams, promise a winter season full of potential. “We’ve got a small but mighty list of Sachems for Saugus High School athletics for the winter,” Pillsbury said. “It’s such a thin season for us. We don’t host teams like hockey, but eventually we’d prefer to host it. I would absolutely welcome that. I just need the numbers in order to be able to support it.” Farewell to a fixture: Saugus High’s Schruender ends tenure with lasting legacy By Dom Nicastro time in decades. The team won I n a candid conversation reflecting on a decade-long coaching journey, Mark Schruender shared a wealth of insights, tying together the threads of personal growth, team development and the bittersweet emotions accompanying his departure from Saugus High School’s girls’ basketball program. After 10 seasons at the Sachems’ varsity post, Schruender called it quits this season. The Saugus Middle School teacher and North Andover resident has a seven-month-old daughter, Addy, and the prospects of putting in 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. workdays on winter basketball nights didn’t seem appealing. Tough to blame him. Schruender’s teams were a consistent commodity in the postseason, making it the last six seasons. One of his teams, in 2017, won the Northeastern Conference title for the first 16 games, matched only by the 2020 team, in the past six seasons. Schruender’s teams never won fewer than 12 games in a season since that 2017 squad put 16 wins in the record books. Schruender’s coaching philosophy, underscored by consistency and player development, led to an impressive track record. His strategic guidance propelled the team to six straight tournament appearances, a testament to the enduring success achieved under his watch. With humble beginnings marked by seasons with only a handful of wins, Schruender’s story is one of transformation. From three victories in his first year to commanding a respected program, he fostered a culture of resilience and perseverance, demonstrating the potential of a well-cultivated team spirit. “We had some down years, too, but the process was really rewarding,” he reflected, highlighting the journey from underdogs to achievers. The coach did not shy away from acknowledging the rough patches, including the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The team’s ability to maintain momentum and secure a place in the tournament for the last six seasons is a stark reminder of its adaptability and tenacity in an uncertain time. Schruender takes pride in the holistic development of his players, celebrating their success beyond the basketball court. His players’ transition to impactful careers and high-character individuals is a source of immense satisfaction for him. This focus on character-building resonates deeply with Schruender’s coaching ethos. “Seeing what they became ... they made an impact on me,” Schruender said. His retirement decision was not taken lightly, with family considerations at the forefront. The birth of his daughter marked a new chapter, prompting a shift in priorities. Schruender’s choice underscores the universal conflict many face between professional aspirations and family commitments, an aspect he addressed with the statement, “It’s a lot of time to be away,” when teaching and coaching a high school team in a different town from your family. The incoming coach, Joe Lowe, is set to inherit a robust program, and Schruender’s confidence in his successor is palpable. With Lowe’s familiarity with the team dynamics and his own Saugus roots, Schruender anticipates a seamless transition, confident that the program’s legacy will continue to flourish. Schruender highlighted the crucial role of community support in building a strong athletic program. Schruender comFAREWELL | SEE PAGE 18

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 8, 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 T hrough December and early January, many gardens in Saugus are lit up with lights in trees, on structures and illuminated figurines and statues in front yards. They give a charming atmosphere to the landscape, and it is worth viewing the same neighborhoods in daylight and nighttime. The long nights will be illuminated for several weeks after days have begun to grow longer. The trees in the center and Cliftondale were lit up last Friday, and the first candle on the menorah was lit last night. While the calendar says it’s December, there are many trees and shrubs that still have some beautiful fall color. A cultivar of the native common ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Coppertina’), which has copper tones in its foliage during the summer months, has turned a burgundy color, and many of its leaves are still on the plant. While wild ninebarks usually have green leaves, the varieties most popular in nurseries have deep red leaves in the growing season; for example, ‘Diabolo’ (Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Diabolo’) and the more compact ‘Little Devil’ (Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Little Devil’). This species has small white flowers in June that attract bees, and small seeds later in the summer that provide some food for birds. Once the leaves have fallen in winter, the peeling bark provides a bit of seasonal interest until new leaves emerge in spring. Last Friday afternoon when the preparations were in full swing for the tree lighting, there were penguins and reindeer on the lawn of Town Hall and the library, but around the corner next to the granite foundation of the old Central Fire Station it looked more like spring, since several dandelions were blooming in the stored warmth between the pavement and foundation. A few are still blooming this week, even with night temperatures going below freezing. Some birds are able to stay through the winter if they have shelter and an ample supply of food. Depending on their preferences, birds may compensate for the lack of summer fruits and insects by eating crabapples, holly berries, weed and flower seeds and other foods that still may be found in our woods and gardens. Besides what is naturally available, seeds in bird feeders can help supply their nutritional needs. Hot pepper coated seed is not palatable to most squirrels and mice, but birds don’t mind so it is a good way to feed your feathered friends without attracting rodents. The birds come at intervals throughout the day to eat at a few feeders in my garden. Some prefer the higher hanging feeders while others feel more at home on Deep burgundy fall color lingers on the leaves of ‘Coppertina’ ninebark in my backyard. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) the ground. Mockingbirds (Mimus polyglottos) are one of the few birds who really enjoy holly berries, and you are likely to enjoy their songs all winter if there are some holly shrubs nearby, since the fruits remain edible until spring. A hedge of holly (Ilex meservae) in the Saugus Iron Works parking lot supplies berries through the winter. Mockingbirds are known Tonya Chadwick’s front lawn on Appleton Street is full of winter wonders. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) for mimicking songs of nearby birds and have a large repertoire. They and some other members of the Mimidae family can even copy other sounds in their environments; for example, car alarms, squeaking machinery and even sounds made by frogs and crickets. They also have some songs that have specific purposes, such as alerting other mockingbirds to threats. Males sing more than females, and when looking for mates they seem to sing longer and louder than they do once they have found one. Mockingbirds can be aggressive about defending their nests and often team up to chase off predators, such as hawks. The Mimidae family includes the gray catbird (Dumetella carolinensis), which got its name because it often sounds like it is meowing, though it can also sound more like quacking ducks when frightened. 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 A mockingbird is poised to sing on the holly in the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site parking lot. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) During the tree lighting, several dandelions bloomed beside the old fire station on Hamilton Street. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) 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. This blue jay is happy with a spicy peanut at my bird feeder. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener)

Page 16 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 8, 2023 SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 13 New England (Massachusetts Beautiful was one), and owned the Appleton-Taylor-Mansfield house, often called the Ironworks House, from 1915 until about 1920, and had a studio in the old factory next door which is now a storage warehouse,” she said. “If you are looking for a single word, ‘antiquarian’ might be the best way to describe Wallace Nutting. There’s quite a bit on Wikipedia about him. Nutting prints are still pretty collectible, and he was certainly part of the reason the Ironworks site was chosen for preservation.” What’s new at the Saugus Public Library? There’s always something in~ Legal Notice ~ Petition for Joint or Identical Pole Locations Notice is hereby given that the Saugus Board of Selectmen will conduct a public hearing on the application of National Grid requesting permission to locate poles, wires, and fixtures, including the necessary sustaining and protecting fixtures, along and across the following public way: Lincoln Avenue – National Grid to install 1 JO pole on Lincoln Avenue beginning at a point approximately 55 feet west of the centerline of the intersection of Endicott St, and Central St. Installing 1 new Pole. Wherefore it prays that after due notice and hearing as provided by law, it be granted a location for and permission to erect and maintain poles to be erected substantially in accordance with the plan filed herewith marked – Lincoln Avenue, Saugus, MA. No.# 30868148 November 8, 2023. Also, for permission to lay and maintain underground laterals, cables, and wires in the above or intersecting public ways for the, purpose of making connections with such poles and buildings as each of said petitioners may desire for distributing purposes. Your petitioner agrees to reserve space for one cross-arm at a suitable point on each of said poles for the fire, police, telephone, and telegraph signal wires belonging to the municipality and used by it exclusively for municipal purposes. This public hearing will be held on December 19, 2023 at 7:10 at the Saugus Town Hall, 298 Central Street, Saugus, MA, second floor auditorium. Signed: Debra Panetta, Chairman Janice K. Jarosz, Temp Clerk December 08, 2023 ~ PUBLIC HEARING ~ PETITION FOR JOINT OR IDENTICAL POLE LOCATIONS Notice is hereby given that the Saugus Board of Selectmen will conduct a public hearing on the request of Massachusetts Electric Company d/b/a National Grid and Verizon New England, Inc, for permission to locate poles, wires, and fixtures, including the necessary sustaining and protecting fixtures, along and across the following public way: Central St – National Grid to install 1 JO Pole on Central St beginning at a point approximately 65 feet north of the centerline of the intersection of Lincoln Ave and Central St. Installing 1 new pole & Anchor. Wherefore it prays that after due notice and hearing as provided by law, it be granted a location for and permission to erect and maintain poles and wires, together with such sustaining and protecting fixtures as it may find necessary, said poles to be erected substantially in accordance with the plan filed herewith marked – Central St. Saugus, Massachusetts. No #30868147 November 2, 2023. Also, for permission to lay and maintain underground lateral, cables, and wires in the above or intersecting public ways for the purpose of making connections with such poles and buildings as each of said petitioners may desire for distributing purposes. Your petitioner agrees to reserve space for one cross-arm at a suitable point on each of said poles for the fire, police, telephone, and telegraph signal wires belonging to the municipality and used by it exclusively for municipal purposes. This public hearing will be held on December 19, 2023 at 7:20 at the Saugus Town Hall, 298 Central Street, Saugus, MA second floor auditorium. Signed: Debra Panetta, Chairman Janice K. Jarosz, Temp Clerk December 08, 2023 teresting going on. Here’s 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 interested 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 Members (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. Math Tutoring, grades K-12: Students from the Pioneer Charter School of Science 2 will offer tutoring in mathematics for grades K-12. There is no charge and students from all schools are welcome. The next tutoring is scheduled for Monday (Dec. 11) from 3:45 to 5:45 p.m. in the Community Room of the Saugus Public Library. Tutoring sessions are also scheduled for the same place and time on Dec. 18 and Dec. 19. Adult Coloring Group: This is an opportunity for grownups to take time to unwind, be creative and have fun. No experience necessary. Just show up on Wednesday (Dec. 13) at 10 a.m. in the Brooks Room on the second floor of the Saugus Public Library. Pencils, gel pens and coloring pages will be waiting for you. An Owl for the holidays: The Saugus Public Library is offering a special art class for kids from ages 11 to 18. Learn how to paint an awesome owl! Keep the finished 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 floor of the Saugus Public Library. Space is limited. Please register ahead. Call 781-2314168 or sign up on the online Event Calendar – sauguspubliclibrary.org/Events – for more information, contact Lisa LeJeune, the Young Adult/Reference Librarian. December Art Exhibit: Local artist Joanie Allbee, AKA “The Sketch Artist, who for several years had her sketches featured anonymously in The Saugus Advocate, has more sketches on display in the Reading Room of the Saugus Public Library. Each week The Advocate published one of these works and invited readers to guess who the subject was. This month’s exhibit in the Reading Room features sketches done in 2023 and 2023 Sketches of Our Saugonian Luminaries. About The Saugus Advocate We welcome press releases, 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 978683-7773. 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. - LEGAL NOTICE - COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS THE TRIAL COURT PROBATE AND FAMILY COURT Docket No. ES23P3496EA Estate of: ERIC JOSEPH LIWANAG Also Known As: ERIC J. LIWANAG Date of Death: October 14, 2023 INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE To all persons interested in the above captioned estate, by Petition of Petitioner Joanna S. Liwanag of Saugus, MA Joanna S. Liwanag 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. December 08, 2023

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 8, 2023 Page 17 OBITUARY Philip Geotis ESTIMATED TAX PENALTIES Taxpayers are often surprised when the IRS assesses penalties for the underpayment of estimated tax payments throughout the year. Fortunately, taxpayers can take advantage of the estimated tax payment safe harbor. If you meet the IRS safe harbor guidelines, you will not be assessed an underpayment of estimated tax penalty. The IRS will not assess an underpayment penalty if you pay at least 90% of the income tax you owe for the current year ratably throughout the year, or 100% of the income tax you owed for the previous calendar year, also having been paid ratably throughout the year, whichever is less. Furthermore, there is no penalty assessed if the balance due on April 15th is less than $1,000. Keep in mind that if you do not pay the tax owed on your current year’s income tax return in full by April 15th, the IRS will assess interest and “late payment” penalties until such time as the full balance of the tax is paid. The late payment penalty is a separate penalty from the “underpayment of estimated income tax penalty”. Also note that if you earn your income ratably throughout the year as a self-employed individual, for example, you cannot lump all four of your required estimated income tax payments into the fourth and fi nal estimated tax payment, which is due on January 15th of the following year, and avoid the underpayment penalty. Estimated tax payments are due April 15th, June 15th, September 15th and January 15th of each year. If, however, your adjusted gross income for the previous calendar year is over $150,000 for joint fi lers and $75,000 for single and married fi ling separate fi lers, then you must pay the lower of 90% of the total income tax for the current year throughout the year, or 110% of the total income tax you owed for the previous calendar year. There are exceptions to the underpayment of estimated income tax penalty. You can eliminate or greatly reduce the penalty if you did not receive your income evenly throughout the three children, Nicholas and his wife Rebecca, Taylor and his wife Kiley, and his youngest son Alec. He is also survived by his brother Paul Geotis, nieces Melissa Ciampa, Jenn Abell, Stacey Geotis, and nephews Adam and Kevin Geotis among many loving friends and extended family members. The family of Phil wishes to extend our sincere thank you to the doctors and nurses at Mass General Hospital for their dedicated and loving care. Visitation was held at year. For example, if you operate a seasonable business and the bulk of your income is generated during the last quarter of the calendar year, or if you sold investment property late in the year and realized a sizable capital gain. Another example would be if you withdrew a lump sum from a retirement plan late in the year and you did not have federal and Mass withholdings taken out at the time of withdrawal. IRS Form 2210, Underpayment of Estimated Tax by Individuals, Estates and Trusts should be prepared as part of your tax return to determine if you are indeed subject to the penalty. If you complete Schedule AI, Part One, on page two of this form, you will be able to insert the information necessary to prove to the IRS when during the year you earned the income. In eff ect, you compute your adjusted gross income for the fi rst 3 months of the year and annualize it, the fi rst 5 months of the year and annualize it, the fi rst 8 months of the year and annualize it and then for the entire year to see if you meet the annualized income exception to the penalty. You can also avoid the penalty due to a casualty, disaster or other unusual circumstance which would make it unfair to assess the penalty. You can request a waver of the penalty in these situations by checking off box A of Part II, page one, of Form 2210, and submit documentation supporting your reason for the waiver. Joseph D. Cataldo is an estate planning/elder law attorney, Certifi ed Public Accountant, Certifi ed Financial Planner, AICPA Personal Financial Specialist and holds a masters degree in taxation. f Saugus. Passed away peacefully on November 26, 2023, surrounded by his closest family. Philip, better known as O Phil, was born to Evelyn and Spiros Geotis on March 28, 1966, in Saugus, MA. He married his high school sweetheart, Barbra Geotis, on May 16, 1987. He was a loyal employee as a truck driver for EZ Disposal for over 20 years. His countless “colorful” stories from the road reflect his charismatic personality and love of driving. He loved nature-especially bird watching, being outdoors, campfires, canoeing, and riding bikes. As any true Bostonian, he was a passionate (and profane) sports fan, a huge movie buff, and was Aerosmith’s number one fan. You could always count on Phil to throw movie quotes into any conversation, probably while holding a glass of Pepsi. Phil was the best at making people laugh and his own laughter was incredibly contagious. He lit up every room with his sarcastic and animated personality. Phil’s favorite pastime was spending time making memories with his family. He was especially proud of his three boys and loved, more than anything in the world, talking about memories of them growing up. Philip is preceded in death by his Mother Evelyn, his father Spiros and his siblings Karen Ciampa and George Geotis. Philip is survived by his loving wife, Barbra and the A. J. Spadafora Funeral Home, Malden on Saturday, December 2. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Phil’s favorite place in his memory to the Mass Audubon’s Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary at https://tinyurl.com/ massaudu and direct your gift to Ipswich River or by mail at Mass Audubon to Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, 87 Perkins Row, Topsfield, MA 01983. O f Saugus. Passed away unexpectedly at her home in Saugus on December 01. Born in Somerville, she was the daughter of the late Walden and Constance (Merlin) Boudreau. A painter by trade Susan was a member of the local union and enjoyed spending time with family and friends. She is survived by her beloved brothers James and Ricky Boudreau of Saugus. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial service in the Bisbee-Porcella Funeral Home, 549 Lincoln Ave., Saugus, on Saturday, December 9th at noon. Susan A. (Boudreau) Tracy ANNOUNCEMENT The Saugus Board of Selectmen is accepting applications for appointments to the Saugus Cable Television (SCTV) Board of Directors, for the Town of Saugus. This is a volunteer/ non paid position for Saugus residents. Those interested may submit letter of interest / resume, to the selectmen no later than January 2, 2024. Saugus Board of Selectmen Saugus Town Hall 298 Central Street, Suite 4 Saugus, MA 01906 December 08, 2023 ~ 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

Page 18 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 8, 2023 Clean-Outs! We take and dispose from cellars, attics, garages, yards, etc. Call Robert at: 781-844-0472 FAREWELL | FROM PAGE 14 mended the local youth programs and community efforts for their part in the team’s achievements, illustrating the symbiotic relationship between a town’s sporting culture and its high school triumphs. While Schruender is content with his current role as Frank Berardino MA License 31811 a supporter and a parent, he leaves the door open for a potential return to coaching. His passion for the game and the impact of coaching on his life is evident, suggesting that his story in basketball may have future chapters yet unwritten. “I really am probably the biggest fan there is of the players on the team right now,” Schruender said. “That’s • 24 - Hour Service • Emergency Repairs BERARDINO Plumbing & Heating Residential & Commercial Service Gas Fitting • Drain Service 617.699.9383 Senior Citizen Discount what I like to say anyway, and I want to be there. If their staff needs anything, if Joe needs anything this year, I want to be there to help him out.” Ultimately, Schruender saw his time in Saugus as a vivid tapestry of high school athletics’ transformative power. It was about building something larger than the sum of its parts – a winning program, yes, but also a nurturing environment where young athletes are groomed for life’s myriad challenges. As Schruender steps back from the coach’s clipboard, his legacy at Saugus High School remains intact, in the lives shaped by a decade of guidance, on and off the court. “And, as far as basketball goes in the future, who knows?” Schruender pondered. “I might miss it more than I realized this year. And I could be back sooner rather than later. But I think right now I’m very happy to be where I’m at.” Lawn and Yard Care SNOW PLOWING *REASONABLE RATES * PROMPT SERVICE * PARKING LOTS USA 781-521-9927 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 Call Driveways from $35

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 8, 2023 Page 19 hat? 1. On Dec. 8, 1933, what comedian/actor was born who famously portrayed “Geraldine”? 2. A “slider” participates in what winter sport? 3. Boston’s offi cial Christmas tree comes from what Canadian province? 4. On Dec. 9, 1998, what international organization declared anti-Semitism a type of racism? 5. In 1892 “The Nutcracker” ballet premiered in what country? 6. In what fi lm did Rex Harrison portray a teacher of phonetics? 7. Candy canes were shaped to resemble what? 8. On Dec. 10, 1768, the oldest continuously revised and published work (in English) had part of its fi rst edition published; what is it called? 9. What fi ctional cat wears a red bowtie and red and white 10. What had a smokers’ lounge, a lightweight piano and lavish meals and was the last rigid airship used for commercial transport? 11. On Dec. 11, 1913, what Leonardo da Vinci painting was recovered after it had been stolen two years before? 12. What animals have baleen? 13. What former basketball player was called “Dr. J”? 14. On Dec. 12, 1891, the fi rst game of basketball was played in what Massachusetts city? 15. What Latin phrase means “my fault”? 16. In the 19th century, the German tradition of the Christmas tree was popularized by what European couple? 17. On Dec. 13, 1774, who rode to Portsmouth, N.H., to warn that the redcoats were coming? 18. What continent is the planet’s driest and has Wolf’s Fang Runway? 19. In space is it dark? 20. On Dec. 14, 1779, what U.S. president died who had a whiskey distillery on his estate? 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 Darocha, Gisely Milch, Kayla M For a searchable database of real estate transactions and property information visit: www.thewarrengroup.com. SELLER1 BUYER2 Rodrigues, Gessandro T Tchen, Michael Duarte, Wellington Brawner, Joseph W SELLER2 Brawner, Raina ADDRESS 1 Rebels Way 26 Highland Ave CITY Saugus Saugus DATE 11.22.23 11.15.23 PRICE 440000 575000 ANSWERS 1. “Flip” Wilson 2. Luge 3. Nova Scotia 4. The U.N. General Assembly 5. Russia 6. “My Fair Lady” 7. A shepherd’s staff 8. “Encyclopedia Brittanica” 9. “The Cat in the Hat” 10. The Hindenburg (destroyed by fire in 1937) 11. The “Mona Lisa” 12. Whales (in the mouth) 13. Julius Erving 14. Springfield 15. Mea culpa 16. Queen Victoria and Prince Albert (who was German) 17. Paul Revere 18. Antarctica 19. No; it is bright, necessitating sunglasses. 20. George Washington

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