SAUGUS Your Local News, Sports & More Online! Scan & Subscribe! Vol. 27, No.50 -FREEwww.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday GETTING INTO THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT 781-233-4446 Friday, December 12, 2025 Yikes! Beware of the E-bikes Saugus town, school and public safety officials launch a community campaign to protect kids and the general public from the dangers of electric bikes and their unsafe use on town streets and the bike trail By Mark E. Vogler D uring the town election this fall, public safety concerns over e-bikes and motorized scooters emerged as one of the main concerns of voters in Precinct 1, Town Meeting Member Mark J. Bell recalled this week as he looked back on his reelection campaign for a second two-year term. “Not only was this a big issue I kept hearing about during the Saugus election, but the 13-year-old child who unfortunately died in an e-bike crash in Stoneham happened in front of my parents’ house,” Bell told The Saugus Advocate this week. “My dad, who was a fireA MERRY MOMENT: Jayce Lutz, 4, of Miss Rina’s Preschool in Saugus, was the first child to share a moment with Santa Claus last Friday night in the second-floor auditorium at Saugus Town Hall. For many kids attending the town’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festivities, posing for a photo with Santa was the highlight. Please look inside for more photos and stories on how the town is welcoming in the holiday season. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) fighter for over 40 years, was one of the first on scene so that also hit close to home. He is a retired Cambridge firefighter. And, yes, Stoneham is where I grew up,” he said. What resonated as a top concern among Precinct 1 residents rapidly became a townwide issue of multiple facets that has stirred debate about public safety issues in communities across Massachusetts as well as at the State House in Boston. Feedback from Precinct 1 residents influenced Bell to start researching the existing laws and looking into how other towns are handling the issue. “During my research , I found that most communities are focusing on education and enforcement, with strong coordination between police, schools, parents and local officials rather than banning them completely,” Bell said of the e-bikes. “Here in Saugus, it might be a good idea to take a look at whether there are steps the town can take to make things safer for kids, adult operators and drivers on the roads. And if there are practical solutions to make it safer, then what would those solutions look like,” he said. Five weeks after the election, the issues that Bell is concerned about have gained momentum as other elected town officials and citizens are talking about their concerns publicly. Plans for a community foE-BIKES | SEE PAGE 2 Over 47 Years of Excellence! 1978 - 2025 Mid-grade Regular 2.73 3.37 3.47 $3.45 Full Service ULS $3.099 Order online at angelosoil.com Kerosene Now Available! FLEET CARD Check Out Our LOW PRICES!
Page 2 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 E-BIKES | FROM PAGE 1 rum Several Town Meeting members and citizens addressed the Board of Selectmen about their e-bike and related fears at the Nov. 25 meeting. Several selectmen at that meeting said that plans are already underway to hold a public forum early next year with a focus on e-bike safety. “Ideally, I would like a community forum comprised of all stakeholders including public officials, Board of Selectmen, School Committee, Town meeting members, state delegation, public safety personnel, parents, students and anyone else who would like to join,” Selectman Jeffrey Cicolini said. “My preference for timing would be January, if not February so we can explore and research options and have any items implemented before spring, when the E bikes will be back in large numbers,” Cicolini said. “There are many town officials who have done a lot of legwork and research on the matter already, Mark Bell is one who deserves recognition. I am very appreciative of the data he has put together and shared to help get the ball rolling,” he said. “I have had numerous conversations with our chief of police. The department has the appetite to implement measures that will result in public safety and discourage the use of E-bikes in an unsafe manner on our streets.” Board of Selectman Chair Lawrence A. Simeone Jr. Attorney-at-Law ~ Since 1989 ~ * Corporate Litigation * Criminal/Civil * MCAD * Zoning/Land Court * Wetlands Litigation * Workmen’s Compensation * Landlord/Tenant Litigation * Real Estate Law * Construction Litigation * Tax Lien * Personal Injury * Bankruptcy * Wrongful Death * Zoning/Permitting Litigation 300 Broadway, Suite 1, Revere * 781-286-1560 lsimeonejr@simeonelaw.net Debra Panetta said this week she has already begun planning for the upcoming forum. No date has been set yet. “I have contacted the School Committee Chairman, Principal Carla Scuzzarella, the Town Manager, the Police Chief, and plan on discussing this with the Saugus Business Education Collaborative,” Panetta told The Saugus Advocate. “This is an issue in all communities, not just Saugus. I would hope students and parents will attend, where it is important that everyone gains a better understanding of the dangers of riding e-bikes and scooters,” she said. “We will need to review the laws and safety concerns with the residents. Many students are not wearing helmets, which is problematic. In fact, many students just have their helmets hanging off their safety bars. I hope that with this education and additional enforcement that we can avoid accidents.” Panetta said she’s troubled by some of the things she’s personally observed. “What I noticed was the number of students not wearing helmets, which is very concerning. Sometimes there are two students on the same motorized bicycle where neither one of them is wearing a helmet, and they’re going very fast,” she said. The Saugus Public School strategy Several School Committee members interviewed by The Saugus Advocate said school officials have begun discussion on steps the schools and the school district can take for public safety’s sake. “The School Department has been proactive in addressing this situation since the beginning of the school year,” School Committee Chair Thomas Whittredge said. “The Middle/High School has sent multiple emails to parents and students outlining expectations, rules, and safety guidelines for e-bikes. We also have schoolwide assemblies planned, hosted by the ‘Safe Routes to School’ group,” Whittredge said. “The overall message is clear: be smart, be safe, and be responsible — or e-bikes will no longer be permitted on school property. While forums and assemblies are important, the reality is that without active parent involvement, our message will not reach the students who need to hear it most,” he said. Meanwhile, Saugus Middle High School Principal Carla Scuzzarella said school officials have seen an uptick in the use of e-bikes, e-scooters and mopeds, along with regular bikes and scooters. “Our bike racks were overflowing all fall. Now that the weather has turned colder we are seeing less of these vehicles. With that said, the motorized vehicles are a safety concern for us as the students are not as careful as we want them to be, especially with the heavy traffic around the building in the morning and afternoon,” Scuzzarella said. “We added a section to this year’s Student Handbook about students riding bikes, scooters, etc. to school. This paragraph reminds students to wear a helmet, follow the rules of the road, etc. I sent a detailed email home in late September urging parents/ guardians to remind students to use caution when riding motorized vehicles to school,” Scuzzarella said. “We specifically reminded students and families about walking the scooters and bikes when on school property, and not weaving in and out of the traffic. We told families that students who do not operate their vehicles safely may lose the privilege of bringing the bike/scooter to school. When I send messages home to families, I usually put a reminder about bike/scooter safety at the end of the message.” The Saugus Middle High School will be hosting asE-BIKES | SEE PAGE 4 PART-TIME JOB OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE: * VICTIM ADVOCATE * ATTORNEY Portal To Hope (“PTH”) serves people whose lives have been impacted by domestic violence and related assault crimes. 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THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 Page 3 The Night the Town Lit Up for the Holidays Saugus celebrated its Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festivities as spirits glowed warmly on a cold night Saugonians braving the cold caught a rare glimpse of the man himself as he arrived to light the trees. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) A pair of horses pulled the sleigh carrying Santa and his entourage through the crowd. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) By Laura Eisener D espite the biting cold last Friday evening, the weather did not dampen the spirits of the crowd that gathered to see Santa flip the switch to turn on the Saugus Center lights. The event ran for several hours, during which time visitors could admire the many decorations, including teddy bears, penguins, a fire engine and much more, around the Town Hall lawn and the library grounds. The ever-popular petting zoo – this year’s edition from Enchanted Animal Parties of Groton, Mass. – entertained children of all ages, with sheep, chickens, goats, a llama and other animals under a small tent beside Hamilton Street. People could warm up and browse the fair at the Congregational Church during the evening. At 7 p.m., the guest of honor, Santa Claus of course, was escorted to Town Hall by a police car, and he himself rode in style in a sleigh-style carriage pulled by a pair of horses. LIT UP | SEE PAGE 11 SABATINO/MASTROCOLA INSURANCE AGENCY 519 BROADWAY EVERETT, MA 02149 Auto * Home * Boat * Renter * Condo * Life * Multi-Policy Discounts * Commercial 10% Discounts * Registry Service Also Available PHONE: (617) 387-7466 FAX: (617) 381-9186 Visit us online at: WWW.SABATINO-INS.COM
Page 4 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 A Wreath-making Workshop The Saugus Garden Club inspired some holiday creativity By Laura Eisener L ast week ’s annual Saugus Garden Club wreath workshop drew a large group to make festive decorations in a friendly atmosphere at St. John’s Episcopal Church. The club supplied fresh balsam fir wreaths to each participant, and they could select a bow from several choices of colors and patterned ribbons made by club volunteers. Many members brought decorations, such as ornaments or pinecones, as additional decorations for their own wreaths and to share with others. Experienced members assisted those who were new to this activity, and everyone admired each other’s interIf We Happen To Meet By Accident ... You’ll Be Glad You Found Us! There is a difference between the rest and the BEST! Celebrating 46 Years In Business! TONY’S AUTO BODY Call or Visit 781-321-0032 34 Sharon Street Malden, MA 02148 TONYSAUTOBODYLLC.COM COME VISIT OUR STATE OF THE ART BODY SHOP • Computerized Paint Matching (State of the Art Spray Booth) • Computerized Frame Machines • P.P.G. Refinishing System • R134 + 1234yf A/C Machines Fully Insured -RS2415 Insurance Company Approval ALL OUR WORK IS GUARANTEED! TONY BARTOLO Owner 46 Years Let Us Handle Your Next Insurance Claim. Go With the BEST It Doesn’t Get BETTER! RENTAL CARS Available Saugus Garden Club members and guests spent a creative afternoon creating wreaths at St. John’s Episcopal Church last week. (Photos courtesy of Laura Eisener) esting individual creations, which will be enjoyed on front doors all over town for weeks to come. Sharon Genovese, a member of the Saugus Garden Club, contemplates the embellishments on her wreath. E-BIKES | FROM PAGE 2 semblies after the new year begins for all grade levels regarding bike/scooter safety. Safe Routes to School will be speaking to the students, according to Scuzzarella. “We are trying to educate our students regarding safe use of the vehicles, but the school can only do so much. Once the students leave our property I don’t really have any jurisdiction,” she said. “As the saying goes, ‘it takes a village.’ Clearly this is a community concern so maybe getting the community involved and all on the same page can make a difference in keeping our kids safe.” Here’s what five other town A finished wreath was hung on a Saugus Garden Club member’s front door at the end of the day. and school officials shared about their safety concerns: Board of Selectmen Vice Chair Anthony Cogliano “As someone who uses the rail trail on a daily basis, I’m amazed no one has been killed flying through the intersections without even thinking about stopping. Half the kids don’t even bother to wear helmets. “I get a good look at it as I walk four to six miles a day, everyday, all around our town. We all need to work together on this one: Police, School Committee and the Board of E-BIKES | SEE PAGE 5
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 Page 5 St. John’s Christmas Fair put visitors in the holiday spirit S By Joanie Allbee t. John’s Episcopal Church held its annual Christmas Fair last Saturday (Dec. 6). The fair’s host, Bill Pothier, gave a warm greeting to visitors and handed out passports to be signed, stamped by vendors and then entered in a raffle to win a huge gift basket filled with gifts from each vendor. Vendors happily attended customers. They were divided into three areas: Santa’s Workshop, Candy Cane Lane and Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen. The vendor booths from Santa’s Workshop area included David St. Clair’s Handmade Jewelry, Devine Cards/Julia Aston, Face Painting with Emma Meireles and St. John’s Homemade Baked Goods. A few vendors from Candy Cane Lane were Sharon Genoveses’s Christmas Ornaments and Candleholders, Barbara Trainor’s Sewn Holiday and Ramona of Ramona’s Hand Built Pottery, and there was a taE-BIKES | FROM PAGE 4 Selectmen to figure this dangerous situation out. Sooner than later too.” Selectman Michael Serino “I have received many comments from residents regarding E-bikes on our streets and associated safety concerns such as people not even using the flashing light when crossPARTNERS IN POTTERY: Ramona and Richard Kowalsky displayed the work of Ramona’s hand-shaped pottery. (Photo Courtesy of Joanie Allbee) ble of Silent Auctions. In Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen, volunteers proved themselves to be of chef quality. Busily, they cooked a creamy chowder and hamburgers to suit anyone’s tastebuds. Meals were presented and plated with care. Delicious hamburgers arrived with sides of complimentary coleslaw, and full to the brim chowder with crackers. Table gatherings exchanged pleasant greetings. Many compliments ing our roads while walking the rail-trail. I have reviewed the video that the North Andover Police Department has released as a public service announcement which I thought was helpful and is worth discussing. “Regarding any E-bike road violations in Andover, the department has set up an inhouse data bank. The first offense they take the operator’s about lunch were exclaimed from feasting crowds with clean plates. A few got up in line to order seconds. “The corn chowder was full of corn and potatoes and was delicious,” Karen Rakinic said. “There was a nice variety of vendors with edible goodies, handmade crafts and wearable items,” she said. Karen’s comments represented the heartbeat heard throughout Santa’s Workshop, name, date of birth and contact their parents. A second offense results in a $ 150.00 fine and impounding the bike for 15 days. “However, a lot of kids are under 16 and probably do not fully understand the rules of the road. Therefore, I believe education should first be the E-BIKES | SEE PAGE 7 Candy Cane Lane and Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen. 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 TREATS TO EAT: Mary Robblee chose baked goods to purchase from St. John’s home-baked vendor bakers Debbie Cox and Debbie LeBlanc. (Photo Courtesy of Joanie Allbee) CRAFTS ON DISPLAY: Karen Rakinic admired placemats from Sharon’s Christmas ornaments and candle holders table while Sharon Genovese sat behind her handiwork that was on display. (Photo Courtesy of Joanie Allbee) EVERETT ALUMINUM SUPPLIES 67 Years! — Vinyl Siding — Carpentry Work — Decks — Roofing — Free Estimates — Replacement Windows — Fully Licensed — Fully Insured
Page 6 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 Saugus Citizens in Action Volunteer work crew found more than 100 hypodermic needles during cleanup of route 1 trash-filled area By Mark E. Vogler A small group of citizens and town officials on a mission to clean up abandoned homeless campsites and litter-strewn areas throughout the community put in some hazardous duty last Friday (Dec. 5). Selectman Frank Federico participated in his first work party and brought a pair of Kevlar gloves so that everyone among the dozen volunteers could protect themselves from getting stuck while handling discarded hypodermic needles used by street people to inject themselves with drugs. “It’s sad to think that we have these areas in Saugus and even worse to find some of the objects left behind,” Selectman Anthony Cogliano told The Saugus Advocate this week. “The last one had over 100 used needles which were picked up with Kevlar gloves and disposed of. We want to make sure no one wanders in these areas and gets hurt,” Cogliano said. “Our goal is to clean them all out while they are abandoned. We also need to put a plan in place to address them before the inhabitants attempt to return when the THE CLEANUP CREW: A volunteer corps of citizens and town officials assisted by Leo Getz and his Junkster Bags’ crew and equipment cleaned up an area off of Route 1 North in Saugus last Friday. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) weather warms up again,” he said. Selectman Jeffrey Cicolini, who volunteered in a previous cleanup, joined the work crew of about a dozen that spent an hour gathering litter in an area behind La-Z-Boy on Route 1 North in Saugus. Other volunteers included Chris Riley, Jim Harrington, Daniel Arinello, Dave DeFilippo and Junkster Bags owner Leo Getz – who again donated the use of his company equipment and workers for cleaning up another debris field. “We had jars full of hypodermic needles,” said Precinct 2 Town Meeting Member Robert J. Camuso, Sr., who organized the group along with Cogliano. “I think everyone put a handful into a bottle to put safely into the Junkster Bags. It’s sad to see it in Saugus, but it’s a real issue – all the drug use we’re finding,” Camuso said. “We also found a junk moped, tires, tarps and other stuff. It took us about an hour, the toughest part was dragging the bags so the boom crane could hoist them up and over the 6-foot fence. The more people, the easier and the faster it goes.” Camuso credited the Junkster Bag boom crane with making a challenging cleanup much easier, saving the volunteers the need to drag A BIG BAG OF JUNK: This is one of several large bags of litter that a volunteer crew removed from an area behind a Route 1 North business last Friday. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) the bags 50 yards up a hill to an opening in the fence. “This makes four successful site cleanups we all did, with Anthony Cogliano and the Leo Getz Junkster Bags team leading the way,” he said. The group planned to head toward an area near Target on Route 1 South today (Friday, Dec. 12) to clean up another abandoned campsite with a field of litter left behind. With the potential for snowfall and the threat of harsh winter weather, the volunteers will soon suspend the work crews until more favorable weather. Plans are already underway HYPOS IN A BOTTLE: While wearing Kevlar gloves to protect himself from being stabbed by a dirty needle discarded by a drug user at a homeless camp, Selectman Anthony Cogliano stuffed the drug paraphernalia in a glass bottle. The crew of volunteers that cleaned up an abandoned campsite behind La-Z-Boy on Route 1 North in Saugus last Friday recovered more than 100 needles. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) for a cleanup near the Square One Mall in the springtime. “From what I heard, it’s a big cleanup job that might take a couple of days,” Camuso said. “Hopefully, Anthony and Leo can resume these cleanup events again in the springtime and it keeps going and growing!” Be prepared before the next power outage. Dr. Rosemonde Paulo DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC Mindset Psychiatric & Wellness LLC 26 Ferry St., Everett, MA 02149 Phone: (781) 242-5401 Fax: (781) 205-1973 Email: Info@mindsetpsychiatricwellness.com Receive a free 5-year warranty with qualifying purchase* - valued at $535. Call 866-852-0221 to schedule your free quote!
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 Page 7 Shining Lights of Everyday People Not all of us can do great things but we can do small things with great love”— Mother Teresa By Joanie Allbee I would like to shine a light on a couple who give so much support to our Saugus Culture – Al and Joyce Rodenhiser. The Rodenhisers are encouragers of many events that the Town of Saugus offers. They invest heart and soul into the activities they attend. During the Oct. 8 Board of Selectmen Candidates’ Environmental Forum sponsored by SAVE (Saugus Action Volunteers for the Environment), Joyce served as the moderator while Al was the official timekeeper. “Joyce is a former SAVE president and both she and Al are founding members of SAVE,” SAVE’s Co-President Stephanie Shalkoski noted in her introduction of the couple at the beginning E-BIKES | FROM PAGE 5 first step to road safety in our community. I look forward to participating in the forum.” Selectman Frank Federico “After hearing from several families and community AT THE ST. JOHN’S CHURCH CHRISTMAS FAIR: Front row, left to right: Al Rodenhiser and state Rep. Donald Wong (R-Saugus). Back row, left to right: Maureen Whitcomb and Joyce Rodenhiser. They relaxed after a wonderful feast of chowder and hamburgers in the “Mrs. Claus Kitchen” area of the fair. (Photo courtesy of Joanie Allbee) of the forum. “And they are deeply committed to our community and shining examples of people members, I spoke with Chairwoman Panetta about the idea of holding a joint meeting with the School Committee. My goal was to show that we are fully vested in the safety of our students and schools, as much as the charter allows us to be. Through our discusALL DEPOSITS ARE INSURED IN FULL. Celebrate 135 years of strength & commitment to our community with a special 135-day CD offer. LIMITED-TIME OFFER: 4.25% APY* 135-Day CD *New money only. $250,000 maximum deposit. Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate of the date posted and is subject to change without notice. APY assumes the interest remains on deposit until maturity. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. A minimum of $500 is required to open a Certificate of Deposit and earn the advertised APY. 419 BROADWAY EVERETT, MA 02149 771 SALEM ST. LYNNFIELD, MA 01940 331 MONTVALE AVE. WOBURN, MA 01801 EVERETTBANK.COM 617-387-1110 781-776-4444 781-281-9092 MEMBER FDIC | MEMBER DIF who make Saugus a better place to live,” Shalkoski said. You will see this loving couple attending library presensions, we agreed that E-bikes and E-scooters were the right topic for this joint meeting, given how directly this issue affects kids. “From there, others recommended reaching out to our state delegation, which I think is an excellent idea, especially Joyce and Al Rodenhiser teamed up as moderator and timekeeper, respectively, at SAVE’s Board of Selectmen Candidates’ Environmental Forum on Oct. 8. (Saugus Advocate file photo of SaugusTV broadcast) tations, theatre performances, Saugus functions and festivities. Joyce, a former Town Meeting member, was also honored as “Woman of the Year” during the 2015 Founders Day Celebration. Al and Joyce enjoy the fairs, local craftsman displays and summer concerts at the Saugus Iron Works – anything to do with supporting Sauas we look for guidance, support, and potential statewide consistency. At the same time, I started to learn that many people in town had already begun researching this issue on their own. A lot of the new Town Meeting members in particular have really taken gus and Saugus people, they show up strong. While dining among friends at St. John’s Church Christmas Fair on Dec. 6th, in the “Mrs. Claus Kitchen,” it was no surprise to see the lovely couple, Al and Joyce. They were enjoying hearty lunches, laughter and gift shopping in support of local artisans. the initiative to dig into the laws, the data, and what other communities are doing. “Seeing that level of interest and effort makes me optimistic. We have so many new E-BIKES | SEE PAGE 8
Page 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 The Spirit of a Tree By Janice K. Jarosz W IN Waste Innovations employees submitted a Christmas Tree to the MEG for the 15th Annual Festival of Trees and it came with a remarkable history. It was named the Spirit Tree and several employees shared with us the history. According to Native American tribes, especially from the south, it is believed that the tree represents a sacred bridge between the earthly and spiritual worlds symbolizing strength, wisdom and interconnectedness. The spirit tree serves as a reminder of the deep bond between humans, animals and the natural world, emphasizing the importance of maintaining equilibrium and harmony within one’s self. When the spirit tree is decorated with empty bottles, the wind blowing through them creates beautiful sounds of peace. Realizing the obstacles in decorating a tree with filled bottles, longtime employee Teddy knew just what to do. He engaged the services of another longtime employee named Lazio, who came from Tennessee and who knew firsthand all about spirit trees. Once they got the okay from A SAUGUS CHRISTMAS STORY REVEALED: This “Spirit Tree,” decorated with wine bottles, was built by WIN Waste Innovations employees and later entered in the 15th Annual Festival of Trees held at the MEG Building last month. A longtime employee who helped craft the special tree at a time when he was mourning the tragic death of his son found joy in creating the tree. When it came time for the MEG raffle, the grieving dad learned his name was on the winning ticket. (Courtesy photo of Janice K. Jarosz) the plant manager, every free moment was spent welding together and decorating the tree. It was during those brief happy moments that the tree somehow seemed to lift the spirits of many among them, especially Lazio, who had recently lost his son in a tragic accident. Several employees carried the finished tree to the MEG, and as they were setting it up, many were actually smiling at their “work of art,” especially Lazio. It was the first time they had seen him smile in a long time. Once the festival was over, several board members sat down to draw the names of the winners, and eventually it was time to draw the raffle ticket for #5, the Spirit Tree. The name on the winning ticket was Lazio – the Spirit Tree spoke. The Spirit Tree connected with us the true meaning of Christmas, Amen. E-BIKES | FROM PAGE 7 voices, new perspectives, and motivated individuals entering Town Meeting this year. With that kind of energy and collaboration, I am confident we can work together to develop a solid and effective plan for Saugus, one that protects our kids, our pedestrians, and our motorists, and sets an example for other communities to follow. “I believe the most effective approach is one that combines education with clear consequences and consistent enforcement. If we educate riders and establish responsible, enforceable guidelines, the vast majority will use their e-bikes and scooters safely. We’re in a transitional period right now. This is new technology, and we’re in that window where there’s little regulation or statewide enforcement. That’s exactly why starting now matters. “My main concern, now and always, is public safety. These newly popular forms of transportation pose risks not only to the riders themselves but also to pedestrians and motorists. As their use grows, so does the potential for serious accidents, especially when there are no clear guidelines or consistent enforcement in place. “We’re seeing kids and teenagers riding at high speeds, often without helmets, and sometimes in areas where drivers aren’t expecting them. At the same time, motorists and pedestrians are suddenly sharing space with fast, quiet vehicles they may not see coming. That combination creates situations where one mistake can lead to a preventable tragedy. “That’s why it’s so important that we take a proactive approach, educating riders, setting reasonable rules, and ensuring safety is at the center of every decision we make. If we take action now, we can reduce risks, protect our community, and make sure these new technologies are integrated safely into our town.” School Committee Member Joseph “Dennis” Gould “I go to Saugus MSHS every weekday to bring my granddaughter to school E-BIKES | SEE PAGE 9
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 Page 9 Two youths face multiple felony charges in parking lot attack at Square One Mall T he two 15-year-old boys identified as “persons of interest” in a violent attack on a woman and her children last month in a parking lot at the Square One Mall have been criminally charged, according to Saugus Police Chief Michael Ricciardelli. “The two juveniles are being charged as juveniles and not as adults,” Ricciardelli told The Saugus Advocate this week. “They have been charged with Breaking and Entering a vehicle during the nighttime for a felony, Assault with a dangerous weapon and Assault and Battery on a child with injury. All three of these charges are felonies,” he said. With the two youths – one from Revere, the other one from Malden – being prosecuted as juveniles, police are not expected to release their identities. They will be prosecuted in Lynn Juvenile Court. E-BIKES | FROM PAGE 8 and pick her up so I see the E-bikes and scooters every day. I have spoken to several of the MSHS students that use the E-bikes and scooters and they all have told me they feel safe most of the time because they use sidewalks when available. “The rules in place by Dr Scuzzarella for MSHS are for the safety of the students and the vast majority comply while on school grounds. Like most rules, there will always be the small percentage of students who do not comply but on school grounds that is a small number. “My biggest concern is for the students who do not use sidewalks, ride in the middle of the streets, swerve in and out of cars, do not use signals to turn or ignore traffic signs on the roads. “Although the rules and regulations for E-bikes and scooters usage on public roadways is the Selectmen responsibility, since most E-bike and scooter usage is done by students, I absolutely agree Chief Ricciardelli appealed to the public for help in capturing the suspects. The Police Department released a copy of a surveillance photo to Greater Boston media outlets, which drew an “overwhelming response from the public” and quickly led to the identity of the juveniles, according to a Saugus Police spokesperson. The incident occurred at about 8:30 p.m. on Nov. 24. Police responded to the mall after a woman reported that she and three minor children were assaulted while in the mall parking lot, according to a press release issued last month. The victim and children had exited the mall after shopping, returned to their vehicle, and discovered two young men who broke inside, police said. “The victim confronted the two individuals, at which time they exited the vehicle, one of them displayed a knife, while with collaborative effort with School Committee, Selectmen and Department of Safety to come up with regulations for the public ways combined with School District properties that would enhance student and citizen safety. “This same collaborative group should also review traffic studies, traffic flow and parking around School properties to come up with traffic flows and parking to also enhance student safety and assist local residents that are impacted the most by the same.” School Committee Member Shannon McCarthy “I am glad to see so many people in the community getting involved and looking for ways to solve the E-bike problem. To be very frank, I am not sure that a forum is the answer. In my opinion a forum is kicking the can down the road and prolonging the actions that we need to be taking now as more and more children are being hurt daily E-BIKES | SEE PAGE 19 the other punched an 11-yearold victim in the stomach,” the press release said. “The two individuals fled on foot toward the lower-level bus stop area of the mall; the victim reported to police that they laughed as they ran away. The victim then got into her car and drove to an area where she felt safe and called 911.” Police were aware that several witnesses observed the incident. The incident has sparked outrage among Saugus Advocate readers with the story receiving hits by 160 readers on the Advocate Newspapers Facebook page, many of them who were glad to see prosecution of the youths. Several readers called for them to be prosecuted as adults and their names made public because of the horrific nature of the crime. THE SUSPECTS: This photo taken by a security camera at the Square One Mall assisted Saugus Police detectives in identifying two juveniles who have been accused of assaulting a woman and three children in the mall parking lot. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate)
Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 The holiday spirit warms up Saugus Center Santa Claus’ visit, cuddly animals to pet, a trackless train and sleigh rides, hot chocolate and hot cider, inflated winter characters made town’s tree lighting event special I t was a cold night last Friday (Dec. 5) at Saugus Center. But the crowd that gathered on the front lawn at Town Hall – estimated at more than 2,000 people – didn’t seem to mind as they welcomed the holiday season while enjoying the town’s Annual Tree Lighting and Festivities. It was fun and games for the first two hours as kids and grownups milled around on the Hamilton Street side of Town Hall, holding and petting cuddly creatures from Enchanted Animal Parties of Groton, Mass. Saugus Town Recreation Department Director Crystal Cakounes and her crew served up hot chocolate. TrueVine Church of Saugus offered visitors hot cider, popcorn and a prayer jar on a table set up near the sidewalk along Central Street. Family members and friends posed for photos in front of the giant inflatable holiday characters set up around Town Hall and in front of the Saugus Public Library. Shortly before 7 p.m., the crowd gathered in front of Town Hall, awaiting Santa’s arrival. At about 7 p.m., Santa got out of his sleigh in front of the Saugus Public Library and walked through the crowd up the walk to the entrance of Town Hall. After climbing the steps, he was greeted by Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree, who handed him a microphone. Santa asked the crowd if they had been good and then gave instructions for the official tree and other trees bearing thousands of festive holiday lights to be turned on – and they will remain on through the first part of January. Once the lights were turned on, town officials escorted Santa into Town Hall and up to the second-floor auditorium, where dozens of kids (and grownups) got in line to have their photos taken with Santa. Several kids went over to a table to get their faces painted in holiday colors. Others posed for photos in front of the animated, giant abominable snowman, who was keeping company with other talking, animated characters. Meanwhile, it was glove and mitten weather for those who spent some time outside during the threeand-a-half-hour event, as temperatures dipped into the mid to low 20s. (Saugus Advocate photos by Mark E. Vogler) Jordyn Deninski, 16, a junior at Saugus High School, left, applied the finishing touches of color to 8-year-old Gwen Thurston’s face. She’s a third grader at the Belmonte STEAM Academy. Jayson Stanasek (left), 8, of Saugus, got his face painted by Tray Riley, 16, a junior at Saugus High School. Gabriel Alvarez, 1, son of Sonia and Nelson Alvarez, of Saugus, enjoyed her first tree lighting event. The TrueVine Church Table: Tammy Garcia, Brandon Allison and Sop Bou offered visitors hot cider, popcorn and a special jar to gather prayers for people in the community. Sunny Almeida, 6, of Saugus, a kindergarten student at the Veterans Early Learning Center in Saugus, with a bunny held by Jeannie Meredith – who helped out at the petting zoo Recreation Department Director Crystal Cakounes and her crew served up hot chocolate from a table in front of Saugus Town Hall. School Committee Chair Tom Whittredge (right) warmed up with a hug from his wife, Elizabeth, as they waited for the arrival of Santa Claus.
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 Page 11 A large crowd gathered at Central Street in front of Town Hall. Many visitors to last Friday night’s Annual Tree Lighting event enjoyed a ride on the trackless train. Santa Claus waved to the crowd after being introduced by Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree. Santa prepared the crowd for the Tree Lighting. The trees lit up at Saugus Center for the holidays Michael and Michelle with their 20-month-old son, John Fox, after a visit with Santa Claus. The Saugus Board of Selectmen and State Representative Donald Wong warmed up inside Town Hall. LIT UP | FROM PAGE 3 The trees in Saugus Center, including the big spruce with its red bows, other shrubs and trees in the rotary, tall trees on the Town Hall lawn, and several street trees with red and white lights (Saugus colors) burst into light. Along with the illuminated wreaths on many lampposts, the results created a bright and cheery atmosphere to brighten the longest nights of the year. DJ Joe Piwowarski, aka “Joe Thunder” of New England’s Best DJs, entertained the crowd by playing a wide range of popular Christmas songs on his sound system set up outside the front door of Town Hall. Grown-ups love Santa, too. Andrew and his mom, Maureen Whitcomb, were among those standing in line to get their photo taken with Santa Claus. Brian Lutz, Jordyn Lutz, Hannah Rogers, Jiada Alquday and Jayce Lutz (front) were impressed by the animated, giant abominable snowman. Once Santa has flipped the switch, rotary traffic is carefully directed so that his sleigh can return to the North Pole. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) The focus of the display is the large spruce topped by a star on the rotary. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) Other trees and shrubs on the rotary, Town Hall lawn and street trees lining Central Street down toward Winter Street were also lit to illuminate the entire center area. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener)
Page 12 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 ~ SHS Winter Sports roundup: New leadership, high expectations as 2025–26 season begins ~ By Dom Nicastro A s winter arrives, Saugus High School athletes are gearing up for another busy season on the court and the ice. In this week’s roundup, we take a closer look at two programs entering the year with new leadership and high expectations. Here, we cover the defending Northeastern Conference (NEC) champion Saugus girls basketball team as it begins the Taylor Bogdanski era, and the Peabody–Saugus–Swampscott boys hockey co-op as it launches its first season under Head Coach Donnie Shaw. GIRLS BASKETBALL: BOGDANSKI ERA BEGINS WITH CHAMPIONSHIP EXPECTATIONS A year removed from posting a 13–8 record and capturing the NEC championship, the Saugus High girls basketball team enters the 2025–26 winter season with a new but familiar voice at the helm. First-year varsity Head Coach Taylor Bogdanski, who served as JV coach and later co-head varsity coach down the stretch last season, now officially takes over a program that has been one of Saugus’ most consistent winners over the past four years. The roster — being finalized this week — returns much of the energy, athleticism and grit that defined last winter’s playoff run. Bogdanski said participation remains strong with about 26 players, enough again to field both varsity and JV teams. The program also returns one of the top players — and the program’s all-time leading scorer — in Saugus High girls basketball history. Senior captain Peyton DiBiasio, already a 1,500-point scorer, returns as the centerpiece of the lineup. Bogdanski called her a tone-setter on and off the floor. “Peyton is a leader on and off the floor,” Bogdanski said. “Great energy and record-breaking scorer. She brings lots of life to our team, and I can’t wait to see that continue toward our successes this year.” Saugus’ strengths this winter should come from depth, athleticism and grit, all trademarks of the program during its recent surge. Communication and consistency, Bogdanski said, will be points of emphasis as the team settles into its new structure and establishes its identity. Marblehead, Beverly and Masconomet are expected to provide strong challenges again in what Bogdanski described as a tight NEC field from top to bottom. Saugus has been a postseason regular, and with DiBiasio leading the charge and a wave of returning contributors behind her, the Sachems once again project as a top contender. BOYS HOCKEY: PEABODY– SAUGUS–SWAMPSCOTT CO-OP SKATES INTO SEASON WITH EXPERIENCE AND LOCAL FLAVOR The Peabody–Saugus–Swampscott varsity boys hockey co-op enters the 2025–26 season with a renewed sense of purpose, a veteran core and a strong Saugus presence under new Head Coach Donnie Shaw. Shaw takes over a group that includes nine seniors, and he believes their maturity and experience are already setting the tone. “We’re really excited for this upcoming season and so is the whole team,” Shaw said. “Their experience is really starting to show.” This season’s mission is about more than wins and losses. Shaw said he is committed to helping make hockey accessible again for the three communities, especially as club hockey costs continue to rise. To support that vision, he assembled a deep staff that includes assistant coach Nolan Shaw, goalie coach Aaron McDonnell, Don Shaw and Reed Foster. The co-op continues to feature balanced representation: 11 players from Peabody, six from Swampscott and nine from Saugus. Saugus fans will see plenty of hometown names driving the program’s momentum this year: · Artie O’Leary — a high-IQ playmaker with great vision and skill. Shaw notes he’s a player who “truly loves the game” and is ready to maximize a big senior year. · Jake Kelly — a dynamic offensive threat with natural talent and highend work ethic. Expect him to be one of the co-op’s most dangerous scorers. · John Morello — a newcomer to the program who already shows strong upside and the potential to become a key contributor quickly. These Sachems will be surrounded by a deep lineup that returns nearly a full defensive unit and boasts speed and finishing ability across all three forward lines. Captains Nathan Carne, Dom Pappalardo and Brandon Barone will anchor the leadership core. · From Swampscott, goalie Dom Pappalardo brings “tenacity in the net” and major big-game experience. · Swampscott’s Jason Rothwell adds poise and strong two-way play on the blue line. · From Peabody, Brandon Barone is expected to generate offense with and without the puck, while Matvey Stupnikov is considered one of the fastest skaters in the entire league. “With three very solid lines of forwards and almost a full returning squad on defense,” Shaw said, the coop is built to compete from Day 1. More importantly, Shaw wants the season to be one the players remember long after the final horn. “We aim to make this year the most fun and memorable year,” he said. “Hard work, commitment, discipline — we want to prepare them for whatever life throws at them.” Saugus Boys Basketball Preview: Experience, height and depth fuel high hopes for 2025–26 “We lost four seniors, but reBy Dom Nicastro T he Saugus High School boys basketball team enters the 2025–2026 season with high expectations. Under the direction of head coach Joe Bertrand, now in his fifth season at the helm and seventh overall with the program, the Sachems return nearly all of last year’s contributors and are poised to compete for a postseason berth. After back-to-back seven-win seasons—including a 5-2 nonleague mark last winter—Bertrand believes this year’s team has the experience, size, and depth to push beyond that plateau. turn a good chunk of the entire program,” said Bertrand, a 2014 Saugus graduate. “That puts us in a great spot with experience, and the guys are excited and ready to go.” Four captains, one vision Leadership will be a strength this season with four battle-tested seniors serving as team captains: Ryan Shea – A two-sport captain (football, basketball) who led the team in scoring (13 PPG), assists (3.5 APG), and steals (2.5 SPG) last year. Huey Josama – The 6-7 forward returns as a three-year starter after averaging a double-double (12 PPG, 10 RPG). Jordan Rodriguez – A threeRyan Shea heads to the Gloucester net in last year’s action. Saugus’s Nathan Soroko in action against Gloucester last year. sport captain and athletic glue guy in the backcourt. Nathan Soroko – A reliable ballhandler and passer (3.0 APG) who also plays baseball and golf. “All four captains are invested in basketball and everything they do,” Bertrand said. “They’re easy to follow because they lead by example and have earned that respect.” A roster built for versatility This year’s Saugus roster offers flexibility on both ends of the court. Bertrand describes the team as “deep,” with enough size to dominate the paint and enough quickness in the backcourt to run a fastBASKETBALL | SEE PAGE 16
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 Page 13 The Sounds of Saugus By Mark E. Vogler Good morning, Saugus Only 13 days until Christmas – and just 11 days before this year’s final edition of The Saugus Advocate, which will be delivered to Saugus pickup spots sometime during the afternoon of Christmas Eve (Dec. 24). The newspaper will resume publishing on its normal Friday schedule on Jan. 2, when we will publish our “Year-In-Review” edition, featuring the top 10 stories of the year, while recapping major events that took place in Saugus each month. We’ll ask town officials to rank what they think were the top stories of 2025 and compare that to our own analysis of what stories and issues made the front page the most times during the year. What are the goals of the Board of Selectmen or the School Committee as they prepare for the New Year? Stay tuned. Menorah Lighting Ceremony Dec. 15 The Town Manager’s Office issued the following press release this week: “Congregation Ahavas Sholom is inviting the community to attend a Menorah Lighting Ceremony to celebrate Hanukkah on Monday, Dec. 15, at 4 p.m. in front of Saugus Town Hall, 298 Central St. “During the ceremony, members of Congregation Ahavas Sholom will light the Menorah, which in Judaism symbolizes the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and represents a celebration of light over darkness. “All are welcome to join in this celebration. “The Menorah is a central symbol in the celebration of Hanukkah, a Jewish festival that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in the second century BCE when the Jewish people successfully rebelled against the Seleucid Empire. “The Menorah Lighting Ceremony is open to all, as it seeks to promote understanding and appreciation of different cultural traditions within our Community.” ing of the leaves this ‘Shout Out’ is to thank my neighbors Don and Tina Tran, who own Diamond Nail Salon on Jackson Street, for taking over 40 bags of my leaves. I raked over a hundred bags this year. Tina and Don make my life so much easier and I am so grateful. Tina uses the leaves for her compost and grows the most delicious fruits and vegetables and the best part is they share what they grow with me!!!” In a press release recapping last Friday’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festivities, Town Manager Scott Crabtree heaped high praise on the countless town employees and citizens whom he credited with contributing to the continued success of one Saugus’ signature community events: “The Tree Lighting is one of the most special days of the year in Saugus. It’s a great tradition that really brings our community together to celebrate the start of the holiday season. I truly appreciate all of the hard work from everyone who pitches in to make sure residents can enjoy this fantastic experience.” The press release issued this MENORAH LIGHTING SET FOR DEC. 15: Congregation Ahavas Sholom is inviting the community to attend a Menorah Lighting Ceremony to celebrate Hanukkah on Monday (Dec. 15) at 4 p.m. in front of Saugus Town Hall (298 Central St.). Here’s a look back at a Menorah Lighting ceremony several years ago. (Saugus Advocate file photo by Mark E. Vogler) Hot chocolate and doughnuts will be provided. Saugus United Parish Food Pantry The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry is open today (Friday, Dec. 12) from 9:3011 a.m. at 50 Essex St. in the basement of Cliftondale Congregational Church. The food pantry welcomes all neighbors facing food insecurity on Friday mornings. Volunteers are also welcome. Please call the Food Pantry Office (781233-2663) or go to the website (cliftondalecc.org) for details. 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 2025-26 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. This week’s “Shout Outs” We had several nominations this week: Precinct 6 Town Meeting Member Jeanie Bartolo offered two “shout outs. She directed a collective “Shout Out” to “Selectman Anthony Cogliano, Town Meeting Member Bob Camuso from Precinct4, Selectman Jeff Cicolini, Junkster owner Leo Getz, Jim Harrington, and Town Meeting Member Ron Wallace from Precinct 5, among others cleaning up various areas in town. Most recently the littered area behind Blessed Sacrament Church. Corrine Riley stopped by with hot coffee and donuts. Other areas they have cleaned up [are] Eustis Street and Walnut Street. Thank you to all of you for giving up your time on a weekend morning to clean up all these areas. You are the best!” Bartolo offered another “Shout Out” to some businesspeople in her neighborhood: “Now that we all have reached the last of the rakweek by the Town Manager’s Office goes on to say: “The Tree Lighting is such a resounding annual success because of the support of dedicated town departments, employees, volunteers, and local businesses, such as: • Saugus Police Department (Candy goodie bags) • Town of Saugus employees who put up the holiday lights and light up displays on the Town Hall grounds and Saugus Center • Stop & Shop – (Chocolate chip cookies) • Hammersmith Fami ly Restaurant (Hot cocoa and cups) • TrueVine Church (Hot apple cider) • Saugus High School Band and Saugus High School Chorus (Entertained the crowd with songs such as ‘Jingle Bells,’ ‘Silent Night,’ and ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas.’ THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 15
Page 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 Saugus Gardens in the Fall Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable By Laura Eisener T he cold moon was still very striking last week as it shone between clouds several evenings, including last Friday during the tree lighting. On Monday evening I was lucky to see a gleaming moon “glade” on Birch Pond, as the moon’s reflection cast a bright path over the surface of the water. Some sections of our ponds have begun to freeze, due to the cold temperatures of recent nights, while other areas still have some open water. One of the native groundcovers that stand out at this time of year is wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens). There are a few places in Breakheart Reservation where it can be found growing, and small pots of it are popular gift plants for Christmas because of its bright red berries and evergreen leaves. Potted wintergreen can be enjoyed through the winter inside on a windowsill, but if you receive one as a gift it can also be planted outside once the ground thaws in the spring. It is perfectly hardy in our climate and will spread slowly in a shady garden over the years. Cultivated varieties often have much larger berries than the ones you would find in the woods. There is also a white berried variety that is showing up in florist shops and garden centers. The waning gibbous moon on Monday night cast a shining moon “glade” over Birch Pond. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) Against the colorful berries, the contrasting leaves are dark green, with new foliage often a dark reddish color, which adds to the decorative effect of the plant through the winter. When spring comes, small white bellshaped flowers will bloom, similar to the blossoms of blueberries. It grows wild in acidic woodland throughout eastern North America, from Canada to as far south as Alabama. As is often the case with plants that have a broad range, there are several common names by which the plant and its fruit are known, including checkerberry, teaberry, deerberry and boxberry. Wintergreen berries are edible, and I remember from childhood my mother pointing them out and sometimes eating them on a walk through the woods. The flavor would be familiar to most people, as wintergreen flavored candies have long been popular. Old-fashioned pink Canada mints, for example, have a wintergreen flavor. Another somewhat nostalgic An urn planted with wintergreen and an arrangement of balsam branches share space on a porch in Lynnhurst. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) product for many people would be teaberry chewing gum. The leaves and berries are fragrant. Many kinds of wildlife eat the berries, including squirrels, chipmunks, turkeys and even deer, especially in winter when less food is generally available. Wintergreen is a member of the heath family (Ericaceae), which is a large family with many popular plants, including rhododendrons and azaleas (both in the Rhododendron genus), blueberries (Vaccinium spp.), cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon), heather (Calluna spp.), heath (Erica spp.) and many others — over 4,000 individual species. Many are evergreen, but there are also deciduous species like the blueberries and some species of azaleas. Frequently bluejays (CyanocAn unusual blue jay with pale feathers on its head and crest appeared at my feeder late last week and has been a daily visitor since. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) A white-berried form of our native wintergreen has been popular this season as a holiday decoration. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) itta cristata) visit my bird feeder, and there are often four or five bluejays in the shrubs and trees near the feeder waiting their turn. Recently one appeared among them that had a very different look — its head and crest were very pale blue, lacking the bright blue and black tipped feathers of all the others, although from the shoulders down they had the regular coloration pattern of other birds. Leucistic coloration can occur in many animal and bird species. The main difference between leucistic and albino coloration is that albino animals lack all pigment and will have pinkish eyes, while leucistic animals have the normal eye color of the species, and the fur or feathers can be white or a very pale version of the typical color. I would describe this bird’s head colors as ice blue, and the eyes are dark like those of other blue jays. Editor’s Note: Laura Eisener is a landscape design consultant who helps homeowners with landscape design, plant selection and placement of trees and shrubs, as well as perennials. She is a member of the Saugus Garden Club and offered to write a series of articles about “what’s blooming in town” shortly after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. She was inspired after seeing so many people taking up walking.
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 Page 15 SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 13 • National Grid for giving a substantial donation to support the Tree Lighting Ceremony.” Gas main work underway at Riverside Court The Saugus Department of Public Works announced that National Grid began gas main work on Riverside Court this week. National Grid will replace approximately 600 linear feet of gas main on Riverside Court. Work will take place between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Mondays through Fridays, and the project is expected to take about two months to complete. Police details and detours will be established if necessary. Please call Town Engineer Kevin Hallion at 781-2314032 with any questions related to this project. Wreaths Across America Dec. 13 On December 13 at noon, the Parson Roby Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (MA0136P) is sponsoring a Wreaths Across America event helping both Riverside and Old Burying Ground Cemeteries to remember and honor veterans by laying remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country’s fallen heroes. There will be a brief ceremony at noon to honor all branches of the military followed by laying wreaths on our fallen heroes. Invite your friends and family to join us in honoring our servicemen and women. In 2021, our first year sponsoring this event, we had over 360 wreaths sponsored. The community really stepped up and we are grateful for all the support we received. The Daughters of the American Revolution’s mission is to preserve American history and secure America’s future through education and promoting patriotism. For more information on how to participate or “What We Do,” email the Parson Roby Chapter DAR at parsonroby.saugusdar@gmail.com – www. wreathsacrossamerica.org/ MA0136P – this ensures your wreath(s) are placed at Riverside Cemetery. SANTA’S MAILBOX: For the second consecutive year, Saugus Town Hall will serve as a surrogate Post Office for kids in town who want to write letters to Santa Claus. The red metal mailbox set up on the porch near the Town Hall entrance is the place for parents to drop off their kids’ letters to the North Pole between now and Christmas Eve. Karen (Perullo) Coburn, the retired postal worker who enjoys writing letters back to Saugus kids in response to letters they mail to Santa Claus, nearly had to end a 20-year-plus tradition last year when the Cliftondale Branch office of the Post Office notified her that she could no longer set up her “LETTERS FOR SANTA” mailbox in the lobby of the Cliftondale Post Office. But Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree, the father of three kids, helped the Santa scribe out by telling her she could place her mailbox at Town Hall. The mailbox was already set up last Friday at the town’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festivities. So, for at least another year, Coburn will continue to be a pen pal to dozens of kids in town and a few others in surrounding communities who want to write letters to Santa Claus. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) Creative Craft Group at library Dec. 18 The Saugus Public Library will host a Creative Craft Group next Thursday (Dec. 18) from 10 to 11 a.m. in the Brooks Room on the second floor. Bring your own project to work on while relaxing and knitting, painting, beading, doing needlework or any other craft. Available spots are limited, so visit the library’s online Events calendar to register. Free health insurance enrollment help at the mall Enrollment for 2025 health insurance through the Massachusetts Health Connector is open now. On Dec. 14, certified Navigators will be onsite at Square One Mall to help residents sign up for Health Connector plans. Navigators offer free, expert, in-person help comparing plans, understanding subsidies and choosing licensed coverage that meets Massachusetts’ Minimum Creditable Coverage requirements – protecting residents from unexpected medical bills and potential tax penalties. Residents who want coverage starting January 1 should complete enrollment by December 23. This year, getting covered is especially important. Starting in January 2026, more than THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 16 ACTOR DONNIE WAHLBERG AT THE KOWLOON: Boston’s Donnie Wahlberg dined at the Kowloon Restaurant this past Monday night (Dec. 8) and stopped for selfies, too. The Route 1 North landmark in Saugus welcomed him with rounds of Chinese cuisine. Kowloon wrote on its social media page, “Great seeing Donnie Wahlberg, star of the hit TV show, Boston Blue, as Danny Reagan and NKOTB at Kowloon! Thank you for taking a picture with Kowloon’s own Donna.” That was a reference to Donna Bosse, of Saugus, a longtime employee of the Kowloon Restaurant. Kowloon invited the movie star back for lunch or dinner anytime during his stay in Boston and while filming. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) den mium c of $425 million in f c c t tinues t aff i and families acr mon N One M nec 6765 t e - - - s - A NEW CLOCK AT TOWN HALL: Former Saugus resident Marilyn Carlson still has her heart in Saugus. She emailed Town Meeting Member Peter A. Rossetti, Jr. with some exciting news last week: “At long last, there is a working clock in the Town Hall Conference Room, thanks to the Friends of Town Hall…The Chelsea Clock Company did the repairs and I picked it up and delivered it.” (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate)
Page 16 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 BASKETBALL | FROM PAGE 12 paced offense or slow it down and execute. Size in the paint: Josama and sophomore Ryan Dupuy (65) give Saugus a formidable frontcourt. Dupuy, who averaged 8.8 points, 8 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game as a freshman, is one of the most promising young big men in the area. Depth across the board: Forwards Cristian Dean, Paxton Ferraro, and Isaiah Louis—all over six feet—add to the Sachems’ interior options. Speed at guard: Shea, Rodriguez, Soroko and Kam Conroy BIG BUNNY FANS: Left to right: Town Administrative Aide Jeanette Meredith and Board of Selectmen Chair Debra Panetta posed for their annual bunny photo at the end of last Friday night’s Annual Tree Lighting Celebration and Festivities. The bunnies were part of the popular petting zoo provided this year by Enchanted Animal Parties of Groton, Mass. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 15 rant and advising Town Meeting on their feasibility. Interested parties should send a letter of interest citing their qualifications to the Town Moderator at precinct4steve@gmail.com About The Saugus Advocate We welcome press releases, news announcements, freelance articles and courtesy photos from the community. Our deadline is 6 p.m. on Tuesday. If you have a story idea, an article or a photo to submit, please email me at mvoge@ comcast.net or leave a message at 978-683-7773. Or send your press release to me in the mail at PO Box 485, North Andover, MA 01845. Let us become your hometown newspaper. The Saugus Advocate is available in the Saugus Public Library, the Saugus Senior Center, Saugus Town Hall, local convenience stores and restaurants throughout town. ~ School Bus Drivers Wanted ~ 7D Licensed School Bus Drivers Malden Trans is looking for reliable drivers for the new school year. We provide ongoing training and support for licensing requirements. Applicant preferably lives local (Malden, Everett, Revere). Part-time positions available and based on AM & PM school hours....15-30 hours per week. Good driver history from Registry a MUST! If interested, please call David @ 781-322-9401. CDL SCHOOL BUS DRIVER WANTED Compensation: $28/hour School bus transportation company seeking active CDL drivers who live LOCALLY (Malden, Everett, Chelsea and immediate surrounding communities). - Applicant MUST have BOTH S and P endorsements as well as Massachusetts school bus certificate. Good driver history from Registry a MUST! - Part-time hours, BUT GUARANTEED 20-35 HOURS PER WEEK depending on experience. Contact David @ 781-322-9401. A form a backcourt with quickness, vision, and experience. “Our roster allows us to play a lot of guys, which is a luxury,” Bertrand said. “We’re tall up front, quick at guard, and deep across the board.” Program-wide stability and participation Participation has been steady in recent years, and this season is no different. The Sachems field three full teams: Varsity: 12 players Junior Varsity: 12 players Freshmen: 13 players That adds up to a deep pipeline of nearly 40 athletes across the program. “We’re returning a lot at every level,” Bertrand said. “It’s a strong sign for the health of the program and gives us depth that shows up not just this year, but in years to come.” What Needs to Improve? While the Sachems went 5-2 outside of the Northeastern Conference last season— with wins over Northeast Voke, Minuteman, and others—they managed just two NEC victories. “We’ve got to show we can compete for all four quarters and flip some of those close conference losses into wins,” Bertrand said. “That’s the difBASKETBALL | SEE PAGE 21 THE “KIDDIE TAX” child or dependent is taxed on income, including wages, income from real estate, unearned income and income from certain trusts. No personal exemption will be allowed to an individual eligible to be claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s return. The basic standard deduction for dependents is limited to the greater of $1,300 or the sum of $400 plus any earned income of the dependent. As a result, a dependent who has gross income of $1,300 or less will not be taxed on that amount and no federal or state income tax return would need to be filed. Investment income of a child under age 18 is generally taxed at the parent’s marginal income tax bracket if such income exceeds the sum of the $1,300 standard deduction and the greater of $1,300 or the itemized deductions directly associated with the production of that investment income. A parent may elect on Form 8814 (Parent’s Election To Report Child’s Interest and Dividends) to include on his or her individual income tax return the unearned income of a child under the age of 18 as of January 1, 2025, whose income is less than $13,000 and which consists solely of interest, dividends, and capital old child has $5,000 of unearned income and no earned income during calendar year 2025. His standard deduction of $1,300 is allocated against his unearned income so that his net unearned income equals $3,700. The first $1,300 of that amount is taxed at the child’s income tax bracket while the remaining $2,400 is taxed at the parent’s marginal income tax bracket. In the case of divorced pargain distributions. This election is not available if estimated income tax payments were made during the year under the child’s name and social security number or if the child is subject to backup withholding. Electing parents are taxed on their child’s unearned income in excess of $2,600 for calendar year 2025. They must report a tax liability equal to $110.00 plus the excess unearned income above $2,600 x the parent’s marginal income tax bracket. . The so-called “kiddie tax” has greatly reduced the use of intra-family transfers of income-producing property in order to reduce the family’s overall income tax liability by shifting income from the parent’s high marginal income tax bracket to the “under 18” child’s lower income tax bracket. As an example, a five year ents, the tax is paid using the marginal income tax bracket of the custodial parent. If the parents are married but are filing separately, the tax is based upon the parent with the highest marginal income tax bracket. The tax is computed by using Form 8615. It is often considerably easier from an income tax preparation standpoint for the parent to elect to report such unearned income on his or her own income tax return. This avoids the necessity of having to file multiple income tax returns and therefore would save on the associated return preparation fees. Joseph D. Cataldo is an estate planning/elder law attorney, Certified Public Accountant, Certified Financial Planner, AICPA Personal Financial Specialist and holds a masters degree in taxation.
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 Page 17 Savvy Senior by Jim Miller How to Locate an AgeFriendly Doctor Dear Savvy Senior, My husband and I are relocating Beacon Hill Roll Call Volume 50 -Report No. 49 December 1-5, 2025 Copyright © 2025 Beacon Hill Roll Call. All Rights Reserved. By Bob Katzen T HE HOUSE AND SENATE: There were no roll call votes in the House or Senate last week. This week, Beacon Hill Roll Call reports local senators’ roll call attendance records for the 2025 session through December 5. The Senate has held 116 roll calls in the 2025 session. Beacon Hill Roll Call tabulates the number of roll calls on which each senator voted and then calculates that number as a percentage of the total roll call votes held. That percentage is the number referred to as the roll call attendance record. Senate rules allow a senator, who is not physically present at the session in the Senate chamber, to vote remotely from any location inside or outside of the Statehouse -- without giving a reason for his or her absence from the Senate chamber. Sometimes a senator is not able to attend only one or two sessions during which roll calls are held, but since there are sometimes multiple roll calls on each one of those days, the number of roll calls they missed can be high even though they only missed one or two sessions. Thirty-four (87.2 percent) out of the 39 senators did not miss any roll call votes and had a 100 precent roll call attendance record. Five (12.8 percent) out of 39 senators missed one or more roll call votes. The senator who missed the most number of roll calls is Sen. Lydia Edwards (D-Boston) who missed 23 roll calls (80.1 percent roll call attendance record.) Edwards did not respond to repeated requests from Beacon Hill Roll Call asking her why she missed so many roll call votes. There were only four other senators who missed one or more roll call votes including Sen. John Velis (D-Westfield) who missed 20 roll calls (82.7 percent attendance record). “As a major in the Massachusetts National Guard, Sen. Velis is currently on an active-duty deployment to the southern border,” responded Velis’ office. “Due to the senator’s deployment, he was not able to participate in roll call votes during two Senate formal sessions in November.” Sen. Mike Barrett (D-Lexington) missed 2 roll calls (98.2 percent roll call attendance record) and Sen. Adam Gomez (D-Springfield) missed one roll call (99.1 percent roll call attendance record.) Neither one responded to repeated requests from Beacon Hill Roll Call asking them why they missed roll call votes. It is a Senate tradition that the Senate president only votes occasionally. Current Senate President Karen Spilka follows that tradition and only voted on 30 (25.8 percent) of the 116 roll calls while not voting on 86 (74.2 percent) of them. SENATORS’ 2025 ROLL CALL ATTENDANCE RECORDS THROUGH DECEMBER 5, 2025 Here are the 2025 roll call attendance records of local senators through December 5. The attendance records are based on 116 roll calls. The percentage listed next to the senators’ name is the percentage of roll call votes on which the senator voted. The number in parentheses represents the number of roll calls that he or she missed. Sen. Brendan Crighton 100 percent (0) ALSO UP ON BEACON HILL HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE – The Healey Administration announced that the Trump Administration, after a monthlong delay, released federal funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and that all applications can now be processed. LIHEAP is a federal program, referred to as the Massachusetts Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) in Massachusetts, that helps more than 150,000 Massachusetts households, representing over 300,000 people, afford to heat their homes during the winter each year. “Home energy assistance is one of the most important tools we have to keep people safe in the winter,” said Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Ed Augustus. “For many of the households we serve each year, HEAP is the difference between a warm home and an impossible choice between heat, food and medicine. Now that this funding has been released, our team and our local partners are moving quickly so that seniors, families with children and people with disabilities can get the help they need as the cold weather sets in.” PROTECT ALL PUBLIC TRANSIT WORKERS FROM ASSAULT AND BATTERY (S 2697) - Gov. Maura Healey signed into law legislation that would expand the current law which punishes anyone who commits assault and battery against a public employee including police officers, firefighters and emergency medical personnel. The bill ensures that all transit workers are covered, including those who are not directly employed by the state, such as workers employed by Keolis, the state’s contracted commuter rail operator. The bill would also add “assault and battery by means of a bodily substance including saliva, blood or urine” to the current law. “Public transportation employees do important work evBEACON | SEE PAGE 18 to a nearby state to be closer to our daughter and will need to find a new primary care physician when we arrive. We are both in our late 70s and are interested in getting a geriatrician to oversee our health care going forward. Any suggestions for finding someone? Searching for Care Dear Searching, Choosing a geriatrician as your primary care doctor in your 70s is a good idea, especially if you’re dealing with various age-related health problems. But if you’re in relatively good health you may not need a geriatrician. A good primary care doctor with an age-friendly philosophy may be all you need. Here’s what you should know. Who Needs a Geriatrician? Geriatricians are primary care doctors that have additional specialized training in treating older patients. Those who can benefit the most from seeing a geriatrician are seniors age 75 and older with multiple health and age-related problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, incontinence, osteoporosis, cognitive decline, frailty, depression, or trouble with balance and falls. Geriatricians are also particularly adept at tackling medication problems. Because many seniors take multiple medications at the same time for various health conditions, and because aging bodies often absorb and metabolize drugs differently than younger adults, unique side effects and drug interactions are not uncommon. A geriatrician will evaluate and monitor your medications to be sure they are not affecting you in a harmful way. Geriatricians can also help their patients and families determine their long-term care needs, like how long they can remain in their own homes safely without assistance, and what type of services may be necessary when they do need some extra help. Unfortunately, there’s a shortage of geriatricians in the U.S., so depending on where you are moving, finding one may be difficult. To help you locate one in your new area, use Medicare’s online find and compare search tool. Just go to Medicare.gov/ care-compare and click on “Doctors & Clinicians” and type in your location, then type in “geriatric medicine” in the Name & Keyword box. You can also get this information by calling Medicare at 800-633-4227. The American Geriatrics Society also has a geriatrician-finder tool on their website at HealthinAging.org. If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, contact your plan for a list of network geriatricians in your new area. Keep in mind, though, that locating a geriatrician doesn’t guarantee you will be accepted as a patient. Many doctors already have a full patient roster and don’t accept any new patients. You’ll need to call the individual doctor’s office to find out. Age-Friendly PCPs If you and your husband are in relatively good health or if you can’t find a geriatrician in your new area, a good primary care physician (PCP) that practices age-friendly care would also be a viable choice. To search for new PCPs, use the previously listed Medicare tools. Once you locate a few, call their office and ask if they’re accepting new patients and if they practice the 4Ms of age friendly care, which include: What Matters (your goals and priorities); Medication safety and appropriateness; Mentation (cognition and mood); and Mobility (ways to keep you moving). You can also research new doctors at sites like Healthgrades.com and Vitals.com. If you’re finding it hard to get into a new practice, you might even consider looking for a geriatric nurse practitioner or advanced practice registered nurse to serve as your PCP. Send your questions or comments to questions@savvysenior.org, or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070.
Page 18 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 BEACON | FROM PAGE 17 ery day to keep our trains and buses moving on time and ensure the safety of all passengers,” said Gov. Healey. “They should never be subject to any form of assault simply for doing their jobs. This bill ensures that they have the protections they deserve and will enhance safety for all users of our public transportation system.” “All transit workers deserve to come to work feeling safe and protected,” said Interim MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. “These employees work tirelessly to serve the public, keeping them moving safe and reliably. Transit workers work 365 days a year to ensure that we have a robust transit system that is safe, supporting riders that depend on mass transportation and allowing everyone the option to choose transit. Know that our labor workforce is dedicated, is a part of the communities they serve and deserves a workplace grounded in respect and security.” “This is a significant victory for everyone who rides or operates public transit,” said Jim Evers, President of the Boston Carmen’s Union Local 589. “Our MBTA bus and train operators deserve to be safe on the job and commuters deserve to know that public transportation is safe. This law will ensure that those who assault public transit workers will be held accountable and that our valued transportation employees are protected. Our transit workers keep Massachusetts moving every day and deserve our utmost respect.” “Every region of our economy depends on the people who keep the busses and trains humming, and this new law takes a strong step forward in protecting workers who show up every day to do just that,” said Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland). “Our historic investments in transit would mean nothing if not for the people who greet customers, run our transit systems and ensure the public is safe.” BAN HOSTILE ARCHITECTURE THAT TARGETS THE HOMELESS (H 3307) – The House gave initial approval to legislation that would prohibit the state, the MBTA and cities and towns from constructing “hostile architecture” that supporters of the ban say targets the homeless and tries to push them out of certain areas. The bill defines hostile architecture as “any building or structure that is designed or intended to prevent unhoused individuals from sitting or lying on the building or structure at street level.” “Public space should be for people to use and enjoy, and constructing public spaces that are hostile to people experiencing homelessness doesn’t actually address the causes of homelessness,” said sponsor Rep. Mike Connolly (D-Cambridge). “Instead of pushing homelessness further into the shadows, we need a comprehensive solution to homelessness that includes a right to housing.” Supporters say that family homelessness in Greater Boston has doubled over the last decade, shelters are overcrowded and waiting lists for affordable housing are in the tens of thousands. They note that policies that sterilize the homelessness crisis in public spaces are not only inhumane, but they also only serve to mask the problem. According to Robert Rosenberger, an associate professor of philosophy at Georgia Institute of Technology, who has studied and written extensively on the subject, hostile architecture includes armrests that divide benches so that the bench is not long enough to sleep on, sprinklers that are turned on at night and certain trash cans. “Garbage cans … serve several functions for people living unhoused,” said Rosenberger. “Some people use garbage cans as a source of recyclable materials [which] can often be exchanged for a small sum of money. Garbage cans are also sometimes approached as a source of discarded food.” He notes that many newer garbage cans are built so that people cannot reach inside them to obtain recycled bottles or cans or leftover food.” STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS FOR VICTIMS OF ASBESTOS-RELATED DISEASES (H 4676) – The House gave initial approval to a measure that would exempt situations when a person contracts a latent disease from asbestos-related or other toxic material exposure arising from property improvements, from the current statute of limitations, which limits the time period during which the person can file a lawsuit. Under current law, actions are subject to a 3-year limitation and a 6-year statute of repose. That means that tort actions arising from improvements to real property must be brought within 3 years from when the cause of actions accrues, but, in any event, not more than 6 years after the improvement has been completed. “This bill will move us in line with a majority of states that have protection in place for such victims of latent diseases,” said sponsor Rep. Jeff Roy (D-Franklin). “It will remove the statute of repose on tort claims arising from latent diseases, while also applying retroactively to allow any person who has been affected prior to enactment to bring an action to recover damages. The state’s Supreme Judicial Court has encouraged us to do so by stating the following in its opinion: ‘The plaintiffs point out that a number of other state legislatures have effectively exempted asbestos-related illnesses from their respective statutes of repose concerning improvements to real property. We encourage our Legislature to consider doing the same should it determine that such an exception is consonant with the commonwealth’s public policy.’” GIVE VETERANS AN EXTRA 5 POINTS ON TEACHER LICENSING EXAMS (H 570) – The Education Committee held a hearing on a proposal that would give veterans an extra 5 points on the education licensing exam which must be taken by anyone applying for a teacher’s license. “[The bill] recognizes the leadership, discipline and real-world experience veterans bring to our classrooms and helps remove barriers as they transition into civilian careers, all while strengthening our pipeline of qualified teachers,” said sponsor Rep. Michael Finn (D- West Springfield.) PROVIDE FUNDS TO TEACHERS WHO PURCHASE SCHOOL SUPPLIES ONLINE (H 675/S 448) – Another bill heard by the Education Committee would create a School Supplies for Teachers Program to provide financial and technical assistance to eligible teachers who purchase school supplies online, for their students or themselves, and pay out of their own pocket. Supplyateacher.org, a national nonprofit that provides teachers with a semester’s worth of essential school supplies, says that 93 percent of teachers nationwide spend their own money on classroom supplies. According to their website, the group gives each teacher two large boxes filled with enough core school supplies to last for at least one semester. They note that pencils, pencil pouches, folders, notebooks, sharpeners, erasers, rulers and pens are included in every box and that additional items are included based on grade level, such as crayons and markers for younger grades, and highlighters and colored pencils for older students. Supporters of the bill say it is outrageous that teachers, many of whom are underpaid, are forced to buy supplies that the schools should be supplying. Sen. Mike Rush (D-West Roxbury), the Senate sponsor of the bill and House sponsor Rep. Ed Philips (D-Sharon) did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking them why they sponsored the bill. ESTABLISH MINIMUM PAY FOR SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS (H 580) – The Education Committee’s hearing also included legislation that would require public schools to pay substitute teachers 85 percent of what schools pay a beginning teacher who holds a bachelor’s degree; or the state’s current $15 per hour minimum wage – whichever is greater. The salary of the substitute teacher would be calculated by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, using the latest data available. The bill would not apply to substitute teachers represented in a bargaining unit in the school district which employes them. Supporters say that schools need quality substitute teachers to operate. They argue that substitute teachers are underpaid despite serving an important purpose in elementary and secondary school across the state. The sponsor of the measure is Rep. Bill Galvin (D-Canton), who was first elected to the House in 1990 and is now serving his 36th year in the House. He did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking him why he filed the bill and why he wants the Legislature to approve it. QUOTABLE QUOTES “For so many residents, life and finances get in the way of completing a credential. This pilot brings residents guidance and support to return to college, grow their skills and complete the degree they once started.” ---Secretary of Education Dr. Patrick Tutwiler announcing a new pilot program to re-engage some 766,000 students who previously began, but did not complete, degrees and certificates at the state’s public colleges and universities. The program includes direct student outreach and coaching provided by ReUp Education at six institutions: Bunker Hill Community College, Cape Cod Community College, Greenfield Community College, MassBay Community College, Fitchburg State University and the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. “As co-chair of the state’s STEM Advisory Council, I’m particularly thrilled to see this recognition go to a science teacher. Dr. Goodhue’s partnerships with local organizations and her ability to show students the science in their everyday surroundings are a great example of the work happening in Massachusetts schools.” ---Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll announcing that Tara Goodhue, the science department head at Lowell High School, is the 2026 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year. “This year, we have watched the federal government launch deliberate and unprecedented attacks on trusted charitable organizations and programs that provide essential services to our most vulnerable residents. As we enter this holiday season, I want to remind residents that your generosity is more important than ever – and so is your vigilance. I advise everyone to review my office’s guidance on charitable giving, so that your generosity reaches those who need it most and strengthens the communities that rely on it.” ---Attorney General Andrea Campbell urging people to find guidance on charitable giving by going to https://www.mass. gov/info-details/giving-wisely-to-charity. “By bidding in the auction or making a donation, you’re driving with purpose -- helping ensure continued, critical funding for the highly trained teams who rescue whales and sea turtles,” ---Massachusetts Environmental Trust (MET) Program BEACON | SEE PAGE 19
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 Page 19 Bishop Fenwick High School honors Saugus student S enior Isabella Iacobucci was recently honored by Bishop Fenwick High School in Peabody with the Fenwick First Award for her contributions to the school community. Fenwick First is an award recognizing those in the Fenwick community who go “above and beyond.” The following excerpt is part of her nomination: Isabella is a steady source of brightness and positivity at Fenwick, known for her warm smile, gracious spirit, and the encouragement she brings to others. BEACON | FROM PAGE 18 Manager Kim Tilas announcing the December 1-15 upcoming auction of low-number Right Whale and Roseate Terns license plates as part of its Marine Mammal Conservation Campaign. The auction features 25 low-number WHALE plates, including #2, #6, #88, #617 and more. Sign up at https://e. givesmart.com/events/Mcd/ or by texting “Right” to 76278. 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 imE-BIKES | FROM PAGE 9 on these bikes. “As a school, we have partnered with Safe Routes to Schools and they will be providing education, have done a traffic study and are working directly with each building head. The principals have sent out communication around safe use of E-bikes on school Isabella Iacobucci was recently honored with the school’s Fenwick First Award. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) portant work is done outside of the House and Senate chambers. They note that their jobs also involve committee work, research, constituent work and other matters that are important to their districts. Critics say that the Legislature does not meet regularly or long enough to debate and vote in public view on the thousands of pieces of legislation that have been filed. They note that the infrequency and brief length of sessions are misguided and lead to irresponsible late-night sessions and a mad rush to act on dozens of bills in the days immediately preceding the end of an annual session. During the week of December 1-5, the House met for a total of 46 minutes and the Sengrounds and will enforce unsafe use if seen, but ultimately the school can only do so much if the whole of the town is not enforcing it when the kids are not on school property. “As a town, we need to be enforcing the rules that are in place or looking for new ways to create more guidelines around the use of E-bikes. “Ultimately, until we make A high-achieving scholar, she sets a strong academic example while working diligently to master even her most challenging subjects. Isabella collaborates beautifully with classmates, contributes thoughtfully in class, and demonstrates natural kindness in all that she does. Beyond the classroom, she is a gifted artist whose creativity enriches our community. She previously attended Saugus Middle School. The awards are given out weekly. Isabella is a member of the National Honate met for a total of 17 minutes. Mon. Dec. 1House11:02 a.m. to 11:34 a.m. Senate 11:24 a.m. to 11:36 a.m. Tues.Dec. 2No House session. No Senate session. Wed. Dec. 3No House session. No Senate session. Thurs. Dec. 4House10:00 a.m. to 10:14 a.m. Senate 11:14 a.m. to 11:19 a.m. Fri. Dec. 5No 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. it uncomfortable for people who are not following the rules and enforcing the traffic laws around e bikes nothing will change. “So, if anything needs to come from a forum, it is fast acting ways we can implement or create regulations around the use and repercussions of misuse with E-bikes in our town.” or Society and was on the Principal’s List Honor Roll for this Quarter. Principal’s List requires a 3.50 unweighted GPA. Last year she received the Clarkson University Achievement Award and Academic Excellence in Anatomy and Physiology. She is a member of the Drama Club and Mock Trial at Bishop Fenwick. About Fenwick First - 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. ES25P1655EA Estate of: CAROL LYNNE BENNETT Date of Death: 05/14/2024 CITATION ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION To all interested persons: A Petition for Formal Adjudication of Intestacy and Appointment of Personal Representative has been filed by John R. Bennett of Weymouth, 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 R. Bennett of Weymouth, 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 01/02/2026. 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 28, 2025 PAMELA A. CASEY O’BRIEN REGISTER OF PROBATE December 12, 2025 Fenwick First is an award recognizing those in the Fenwick community who go “above and beyond.” The nominations can come from anyone within the school and are awarded to anyone in the school from students, faculty and staff. Nominations must highlight how this individual lives the virtues of Faith, Integrity, Relationship, Scholarship and Tradition.
Page 20 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS Copyrighted material previously published in Banker & Tradesman/The Commercial Record, a weekly trade newspaper. It is reprinted with permission from the publisher, The Warren Group. For a searchable database of real estate transactions and property information visit: www. thewarrengroup.com. BUYER1 Festa, Rocco Hanlon, Paul M Mazzone, Gloria M Mitchell, Katherine C Oregan, Sean Scaduto, Vincent Shutt, Molly Mitchell, Kent Spagnuolo, Diandra E BUYER2 Starkey, Crystal SELLER1 Flores, William Hanlon, Karen E Harding, Alyson Desimone, Dana M Mazzone, Gloria M Connolly, Daniel J Danahy Linda M Est For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 781-233-4446 or info@advocatenews.net OFFICE FOR RENT - EVERETT J Nancy Rose (Sacco) Santangelo ust shy of her 97th birthday, completed her beautiful journey on earth. Guided always by her faith and deSELLER2 Valle, Deysi M Byrand, Mark D Leinbach, Kelly M ADDRESS 18 Sterling Ave 20 Norman Rd 1104 Lewis O Gray Dr #1104 110 Ellis Farm Ln 4 Mersea St 1 Atkinson Dr #3 16 Second St CITY Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus Saugus OBITUARIES votion to her family, Nancy passed peacefully on December 3, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born in East Boston on December 6, 1928, Nancy was the daughter of the FURNISHED ROOM FOR RENT EVERETT DATE 11.14.25 11.17.25 11.14.25 11.14.25 11.14.25 11.17.25 11.14.25 PRICE 720000 40000 576000 1720000 780000 300000 555000 Prime Professional Office Space, 1600 Sq. Ft. located on Broadway near the heart of Everett business district. Off-street parking for 1-2 vehicles. Call: 617-699-0887 late Rose (Russo) and Salvator Sacco. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 43 years, Ralph. Shortly after their marriage, 1 bedroom, 1 bath furnished room for rent. $275. per week rent. Two week deposit plus 1 week rent required. Call: 617-435-9047 - NO TEXT 1. On Dec. 12, 1937, what country’s planes sank the U.S. gunboat Panay on the Yangtze River, and then apologized? 2. Did 1892’s “The Nutcracker” originate with Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky? 3. What TV news anchor hosted a game show called “It’s News to Me”? 4. Reportedly, why are people hoarding a Mexican banknote with an image of an axolotl? 5. On Dec. 13, 1816, the first USA savings bank opened in what city (then a town) with a goal of encouraging the poor to save? 6. In 1939, Delaware declared its state tree what, when it was the greatest exporter of Christmas wreaths made from that tree? 7. What group was first called The Pendletones and in the 1960s wore a “board shirt”? 8. On Dec. 14, 2014, what “Bess” died who was the first Miss America who was Jewish? 9. How are French Guiana’s Devil’s Island, Hanoi Hilton and New York’s Sing Sing similar? 10. What connects Key West, Florida, and Fort Kent, Maine? 11. On Dec. 15, 1973, the American Psychiatric Assoc. stated what was not a mental illness? 12. What medieval German monk known for insults said, “Perhaps you want me to die of unrelieved boredom while you keep on talking”? 13. What was nicknamed “The Black Knights of the Hudson” and used mules? 14. What comic duo appeared in the 1934 film musical “Babes in Toyland”? 15. On Dec. 16, 1773, what event occurred that caused the port of Boston to close? 16. In November 2025 a copy of the first issue of what comic was auctioned for $9.12M? 17. On Dec. 17, 1903, what brothers who had a bicycle shop made four successful flights? 18. Who created the detective Lord Peter Wimsey and wrote ads for Colman’s Mustard? 19. What NYC newspaper is the only newspaper with a period in its nameplate? 20. On Dec. 18, 1961, the song “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” went to #1; it was based on a 1938 song from what continent? Nancy and Ralph moved to Saugus, where they raised their five children. Nancy was actively involved in her community, including the local elementary school, where she served as President of the PTA, the Blessed Sacrament Church, where she was a member of ANSWERS 1. Japan (It said it made a mistake and paid money to the USA.) 2. It was adapted from Alexandre Dumas’ 1844 story “The Nutcracker,” which came from E.T.A. Hoffman’s 1816 story “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” 3. Walter Cronkite 4. They like the axolotl (a type of salamander that has become rare) design. 5. Boston (Provident Institution for Savings) 6. American holly 7. The Beach Boys 8. Bess Myerson 9. They are famous prisons. 10. U.S. Route 1 11. Homosexuality 12. Martin Luther 13. The West Point military academy football team; live mules are mascots. 14. Laurel & Hardy (It was based on a 1903 operetta based on “Mother Goose.”) 15. The Boston Tea Party 16. “Superman” (most expensive comic sale) 17. Orville and Wilbur Wright 18. Dorothy L. Sayers 19. The Wall Street Journal. 20. Africa (a Zulu song called “Mbube”)
THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 Page 21 OBITS | FROM PAGE 20 the choir for 30 years, served as president of the guild, and taught CCD classes. Her volunteer work included fundraising for her favorite charities. A lifelong learner, Nancy attended local colleges where she earned various degrees and certifications. Later in life, Nancy had the honor of being invited to become an Associate of the Congregation of the Sisters of Saint Joseph’s, where she was involved in various ministries. She leaves behind her five children and their spouses; Mark and JoAnne Santangelo of Easton, MA, Cindy and Greg Govoni of Exeter, NH, Nancy and Doug Ross of Kingston, NH, Karen and Tom Tanch of Hamilton, MA and Maria and Mark Votto of Brentwood, NH; 15 fifteen grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren who were BASKETBALL | FROM PAGE 16 ference between 7-13 and a playoff team.” The team finished fourth out of five in the NEC Lynch Division last season, but several games came down to the wire. “There were 50-50 games that didn’t go our way,” Bertrand said. “If we can swing a few of those, we’ll be right there.” The Northeastern Conference continues to be one of the strongest leagues in the state, and this year looks no different. “There are no easy nights in this league,” Bertrand said. “It’s deep, balanced, and anyone can win on any night. It’s going to be a gauntlet.” Among the returning NEC contenders are Masconomet, Beverly, and Swampscott, all of whom bring back multiple starters. But Bertrand sees that as an opportunity—not a burden. “If you want to get better,” he said, “you want to play the best.” Clean-Outs! We take and dispose from cellars, attics, garages, yards, etc. Call Robert at: 781-844-0472 the joy of her life, and several nieces and nephews. Nancy loved singing, gardening, dancing, sewing, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Relatives and friends were invited to attend visiting hours in the Bisbee-Porcella Funeral Home on Monday, December 8. A funeral mass was held in Blessed Sacrament Church, Saugus on Tuesday. Interment in Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett. Charitable donations may be sent to Brookhaven Hospice of Portsmouth, NH at brookhavenhospice.com or Licensed & Insured the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Framingham, MA at bethanyhealthcare.org/donate. Paul Damien Ireton O f Saugus.Born to Julia and John Ireton (predeceased) on December 3, 1960. Loving brother to Mary and Mark (predeceased), brother-in-law to Michael. Uncle to Sean, Scott, Victoria, Jack and Christian. Nephew to his favorite Aunts Mary and Jennifer. In his lifetime, Paul brought great joy to everyone who crossed his path. Born with Free Estimates Carpentry * Kitchen & Bath * Roofs * Painting Decks * Siding * Carrijohomeimprovement.com Call 781-710-8918 * Saugus, MA General Contractor * Interior & Exterior The Kid Does Clean Outs From 1 item to 1,000 * Basements * Homes * Backyards * Commercial Buildings The cheapest prices around! Call Eric: (857) 322-2854 Frank Berardino MA License 31811 • 24 - Hour Service • Emergency Repairs BERARDINO Plumbing & Heating Residential & Commercial Service Gas Fitting • Drain Service 617.699.9383 Senior Citizen Discount American Exterior and Window Corporation Contact us for all of your home improvement projects and necessities. Call Jeff or Bob Toll Free: 1-888-744-1756 617-699-1782 / www.americanexteriorma.com Windows, Siding, Roofing, Carpentry & More! All estimates, consultations or inspections completed by MA licensed supervisors. *Over 50 years experience. *Better Business Bureau Membership. Insured and Registered Complete Financing Available. No Money Down. his roommates Ken and Andy. He enjoyed riding the bus to his day program at CLASS in Wilmington for a number of years until his Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Paul will be remembered for his love of Elvis Presley, food parties and his smile. Paul was a gift from God. Services to be scheduled at a later date Down Syndrome he taught our family lessons about empathy, compassion and understanding those less fortunate. For over 20 years Paul was a resident of a small group home located in Saugus where he is well cared for by Serge and Vincent. His best friends were BUDGET SERVICES RUBBISH REMOVAL * Interior-Exterior Demolition Bathroom/Kitchen/Decks, Etc. * All Types of Debris Removed * Pick-up Truck Load of Trash starting at $239. ~ Licensed & Insured ~ Call (978) 494-3443 APARTMENTS FOR RENT www.mastrocola.com We follow Social Distancing Guidelines!
Page 22 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 12, 2025 Get your Mortgage Started with Beyond Financing, Inc. Home Pre-qualification www.beyondfinancing.com Powered by Finley Concierge Beyond Financing, Inc. Licensed in CA-CT-FL-MA-NH-NC-RI-SC-TX • Purchase • Refinance • Investment 999 Broadway, Suite 500-N, Saugus-MA 01906 www.BEYONDFINANCING.COM 857.410.1391 NMLS ID: 2394496 IN CA, CT & MA: Mortgage Broker Only, not a Mortgage Lender or Mortgage Correspondent Lender. In FL, NH, NC, RI, SC & TX: Mortgage Broker and Correspondent Lender. Loans are available fairly and equally regardless of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, military status, disability, or ancestry. TRINITY REAL ESTATE 321 MAIN STREET | SAUGUS, MA | VILLAGE PARK TrinityHomesRE.com Helping Hands Start at Home. Join us in spreading kindness this season! We’re collecting non-perishable food items for our local food bank. Drop off your donations at TRINITY REAL ESTATE 321 Main Street, Saugus, MA Village Park Plaza Monday - Friday 10AM-3PM Together, we can make sure every family in our community has food on the table. We extend our heartfelt gratitude from the whole team! Proud to serve our neighbors in real estate and in heart. Providing Real Estate Services for Nearly Two Decades Servicing Saugus, Melrose, Wakefield, Malden, all North Shore communities, Boston and Beyond. 781.231.9800
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