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SAUGUS Your Local News & Sports Online - Scan & Subscribe Here! OCAT D CAT SANTA CLAUS CAME TO TOWN L The white-bearded man in the red suit and hat – both with white trim – was the most photographed person at Saugus Center last Friday night (Dec. 6) as hundreds of people gathered for the town’s Annual Tree Lighting and Festivities. Please see inside for more photos and stories on how the town is welcoming the holiday season. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) TE Vol. 26, No.50 -FREE- www.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday 781-233-4446 Friday, December 13, 2024 “Environmental Performance Standards” State Attorney General backs article empowering board of Health in its dealings with WiN Waste innovations plant By Mark E. Vogler ocal regulations that were initially drafted and approved by the Annual Town Meeting a decade ago to bolster the Board of Health in its oversite of the town’s trash-to-energy plant on Route 107 are finally offi cial. The state Attorney General’s Municipal Law Unit recently issued an opinion approving Article 18 – which was passed by a margin of 44-1 by Town Meeting ENVIRONMENTAL | SEE PAGE 2 There is no stopping Saugus Santa Mail: After more than two decades of overseeing her pet project of writing “Santa” letters for Saugus kids, retired Saugus postal worker Karen Coburn learned that the Saugus Post Offi ce in Cliftondale would no longer allow her to place her special mailbox in the lobby to gather free letters to Santa. With the program in jeopardy, the town welcomed Coburn to stick the mailbox on the steps near the entrance of Saugus Town Hall. Please see inside for the story. (Photo by Mark E. Vogler) MARCHETTI CORP. 46 Years of Excellence!! 1978-2024 Regular Unleaded $2.839 Mid Unleaded $3.379 Super $3.479 Diesel Fuel $3.279 Gift Available! HEATING OIL ULS $4.759 $2.95 9 DEF Call for Current Price! (125—gallon minimum) DEF Available by Pump! 24-Hour Burner Service Open an account and order online at: Hours: Monday thru Friday 6 AM to 7 PM / Saturdays 7 AM to 5 PM / Sundays 9 AM to 5 PM FLEET Prices subject to change

Page 2 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 ENVIRONMENTAL | FROM PAGE 1 members in May – to establish a section titled “Board of Health-Solid Waste Facility Environmental Performance Standards” as part of the town bylaws. “We approve Article 18 because, under our standard of review, we cannot conclude New St. Anthony’s Flea Market 250 Revere St., Revere, Lower Hall Indoor Flea Market Saturday, December 14, 2024 from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM Admission .50 Cents PLENTY OF NEW VENDORS ONLY 3 SPOTS LEFT New Vendors Welcome! Free Coffee & Tea! To rent a table, call Lynda: (781) 910-8615 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 that Article 18 conflicts with state law,” state Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell wrote at the end of a ninepage decision issued Dec. 6 by the attorney general’s Municipal Law Unit. “However, the Town should both discuss the issues raised in this decision with Town Counsel and whether the bylaw should be amended at a future Town Meeting to address these issues,” Campbell concluded. The new regulations enable the Board of Health to impose environmental standards in a number of areas, including emissions of visible smoke, storage of flammable materials, sound pressure levels and emissions of ash. Any violation under the new regulations could be punishable by a fine of $300 per violation each day. “Solid waste facilities shall not be operated in a manner to cause any dangerous, noxious, injurious or otherwise objectionable hazard; noise or vibration, smoke, dust, odor or other objectionable pollution; glare, conditions conducive to breeding of insects, rodents or other vermin, substances, conditions, or elements to an extent so as to adversely affect nearby neighborhoods,” according to Section 4 of the article, which established minimal acceptable standards. There’s also a provision in the new regulations that allows the Board of Health to require information, data and testing to be performed and supplied at the owner’s or developer’s expense in order to determine the findings of compliance. Precinct 10 Town Meeting Member Peter Manoogian, one of the local government leaders who was heavily involved with the crafting of the new regulations, called the Attorney General’s approval of Article 18 “a victory for the Town of Saugus and a loss for WIN.” “The Attorney General’s approval of this bylaw affirms the authority and ability of a local community to protect public health and safety,” Manoogian said in a statement to The Saugus Advocate. “The public should know that Saugus Town Meeting, the Board of Health, the Town Manager, Conservation Law Foundation, the Alliance for Health and the Environment and many citizens communicated throughout the Summer and Fall with the AG responding to the nonsensical arguments raised by WIN’s high priced Boston law firm this past July,” Manoogian said. “The Board of Health now has the authority to hold WIN accountable for threats and nuisances it causes, and I am confident they will do so with this bylaw adopted by Saugus Town Meeting,” he said. Mary Urban, Sr. Director of Communications & Community, issued the following statement in the company’s response to the Attorney General’s decision: “WIN Waste Innovations remains in compliance with all local, state, and federal permits. We agree with the attorney general’s opinion that DEP regulations, which are more stringent than even the EPA, are thoroughly protective of public health and safety. We are also appreciative of the DEP’s encouragement for the town to further amend the article to prevent ambiguity that could ‘[interfere] with DEP’s authority to regulate and permit solid waste facilities.’ “We will continue not only to operate in compliance with DEP standards, but also to serve as an environmental steward through initiatives such as our salt marsh restoration program and other conservation efforts at the Bear Creek Wildlife Sanctuary. We will also continue to collaborate with the Board of Health and other local leaders to ensure we remain an excellent corporate partner and add value to the community.” Precinct 6 Town Meeting Member William S. Brown was a vocal, but lone opponent during Town Meeting deliberations on Article 18 last spring when he called it “unnecessary.” “We already have the federal and state regulations for the WIN facility. It’s like having the Saugus EPA now,” Brown said. “We should be working to repair our relations with WIN Waste. This article can only have adverse effects on any negotiations with WIN Waste. We should be working with these people. There should be an open dialogue, instead of continuing our adversarial relations,” he said. The article was initially drafted in 2014 and passed by the Annual Town Meeting that year. But the state Attorney General’s Office determined that provisions in the article were more restrictive ENVIRONMENTAL | SEE PAGE 7

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 Page 3 Town Hall welcomes a retired postal worker who can’t place her “Letters to Santa” mailbox in the Saugus Post Office anymore By Mark E. Vogler R etired postal worker Karen Coburn said she walked out of the Saugus Post Office “heart-broken” last Friday after a former coworker told her she couldn’t set up her “Letters to Santa” mailbox anymore. For more than two decades, she’s always had a special mailbox set up in the lobby of the Cliftondale branch office, to collect letters from local kids who were hoping to get responses back from the North Pole. “I will no longer be allowed to do so. I do not understand or agree with this,” Coburn wrote in a sad, farewell message on social media. “I have been writing personalized letters back from Santa on my own time and dime, not just filling in the child’s name on a form letter but individualizing each and every one,” she said. “The response I have gotten from the parents over the years of their children’s reactions is what inspired me to continue this tradition. I enjoyed all of their little notes to Santa, the ‘love You’s’ and their drawings … Last year, I did over 100 letters [but] this year, I will do none, how sad is that! I am truly sorry for the children that will be disappointed, my heart is broken and thanks for letting me vent. Merry Christmas.” In just a few days, Coburn said, her “vent” on social media had received an inspiring response – more than 400 comments from people who rallied around her, offering support. “I was really starting to give up and throw in the towel,” she said. “But when I saw the response from the people, that really put the fight back in me,” she said. “The reaction from the town’s people was truly amazing. I got teary-eyed over a lot of the comments. It made me realize how tight-knit and caring our community really is,” she said. One of the town residents THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: Retired postal worker Karen Coburn said she’s thrilled she can continue answering “Santa Claus” letters from kids after finding a new location for her special mailbox. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) she apparently moved was Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree, a father of three children. “After contacting our town manager and explaining my dilemma, he graciously offered to allow me to put Santa’s mailbox at Town Hall,” Coburn said. “Thank you, Scott for keeping the magic of Christmas and Santa Claus alive for our children.” Karen (Perullo) Coburn is a lifelong Saugus resident with an ambitious holiday season hobby: being a pen pal to dozens of kids in town and a few others in surrounding commuGerry 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 nities who want to write letters to Santa Claus. With the support of the Saugus Post Office, she had gathered “Letters To Santa” for years – until a policy change in the Post Office that goes way beyond Saugus forced her to give up something she grew to love. Coburn retired from the U.S. Postal Service several years ago after three decades – most of it in Saugus – she continued to receive Santa letters because she couldn’t find somebody to take over the project. MAIL | SEE PAGE 8 You can’t stop Santa’s Saugus Mail RON’S OIL Call For PRICE MELROSE, MA 02176 NEW CUSTOMER’S WELCOME ACCEPTING VISA, MASTERCARD & DISCOVER (781) 397-1930 OR (781) 662-8884 100 GALLON MINIMUM 425r Broadway, Saugus Located adjacent to Kohls Plaza Route 1 South in Saugus at the intersection of Walnut Street We are on MBTA Bus Route 429 781-231-1111 We are a Skating Rink with Bowling Alleys, Arcade and two TV’s where the ball games are always on! PUBLIC SKATING SCHEDULE 12-7 p.m. Sunday Monday Tuesday $10.00 Price includes Roller Skates Rollerblades/inline skates $3.00 additional cost Private Parties 7:30-11 p.m. Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday $11.00 Price includes Roller Skates 18+ Adults Only After 7 PM - ID Required Private Parties Private Parties 4-8 p.m. $10.00 8:30-11 p.m. $11. 18+ Adults Only After 7 PM - ID Required 12-9 p.m. $10.00 Everyone must pay admission after 6 p.m. Sorry No Checks - ATM on site Roller skate rentals included in all prices Inline Skate Rentals $3.00 additional BIRTHDAY & PRIVATE PARTIES AVAILABLE www.roller-world.com

Page 4 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 Santa relaxed at Breakheart’s Visitor’s Center on a large fi reside sofa By Laura Eisener T he Chrisopher O. Dunne Visitor’s Center at Breakheart Reservation was a cozy and festive location for Santa’s Visit last Sunday. It’s hard to imagine a cozier atmosphere than the log-walled Visitor’s Center surrounded by the winter woods. Not only did visitors get a chance to talk to Santa and some of his elves, but they could enjoy free candy canes, cookies and other 8 Norwood St. Everett (617) 387-9810 Open Tues. - Sat. at 4:00 PM Closed Sun. & Mon. Announcing our Classic Specials Dine In Only: * FREE Salad with purchase of Entree, Tuesdays & Wednesdays * Cheese Pizza - Only $10 Catch ALL The Live Sports Action On Our Large Screen TV’s Scan & Follow Us on Facebook! Willow the mini-goldendoodle, Ezekiel Adams and Mom Leslie and Dad Nick visit Santa. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) treats, and kids could make a holiday decoration craft – with all supplies provided – in the craft room. A fire roared in the fireplace; a decorated tree stood in another corner, and greenery was all around to set the holiday mood. Santa relaxed on a large sofa in front of the fire, with room for the whole family to gather around at once, as many did. Many volwww.810bargrille.com SANTA | SEE PAGE 5 Volunteers and crafters produced some one-of-a-kind holiday ornaments. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) — Vinyl Siding — Carpentry Work — Decks — Roofing — Free Estimates — Replacement Windows — Fully Licensed — Fully Insured

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THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 Page 7 ENVIRONMENTAL | FROM PAGE 2 than what the state allowed. For instance, state law provides a fine of $300 per violation, while the town bylaw as previously introduced allowed a fine of $1,000 per violation. This year’s Town Meeting vote essentially corrected the flaw identified in the 2014 version of the article. Board of Selectmen Chair Debra Panetta hailed the measure as “a very important article” while addressing Town Meeting last spring. “We need to pass this to give the Board of Health some teeth to protect us,” Panetta said. Kelli E. Gunagan, Assistant Attorney General and Director of the Municipal Law Unit, noted in her review of Article 18 that the unit received correspondence from Legal Counsel for Wheelabrator Saugus, Inc. “urging this Office to disapprove Article 18 because it conflicts with state law on various grounds.” “We have considered the opposition’s allegation that Article 18 conflicts with state law because the Town failed to comply with its by-law provisions governing the procedures for voting at Town Meeting,” Gunagan wrote in the decision. “We conclude that a Town’s failure to comply with its own local by-laws does not provide the Attorney General with grounds to disapprove Article 18. The opposition urges us to disapprove Article 18 because the Town failed to take a roll call vote for Article 18 as required by Section 205.00 of the Town’s by-laws, ‘Use of Check List,’ and because the Town did not take the necessary vote required by Section 202.00 of Town’s by-laws, ‘Warrant Articles,’ to discuss and vote on Article 18 ‘out of order’ at Town Meeting. These assertions do not provide the Attorney General with grounds to disapprove Article 18.” Gunagan noted the attorney general’s review also considered “the opposition’s allegation that Article 18’s provisions regulating emissions and pollution from solid waste facilities conflicts” with state law, “which authorizes local boards of health to adopt rules and regulations that regulate and control atmospheric pollution. We conclude that the new Section 514A.00 does not conflict,” she said. A closer look at Article 18 514A.00 Standards Board of Health Solid Waste Facility Environmental Performance Section 1: Preamble. This section establishes environmental performance standards for solid waste facilities subject to Board of Health enforcement. Section 2: Purpose. The purpose of this section is to protect the rights of the people of Saugus to clean air and water guaranteed by Article 97 of the Articles of Amendment to the Massachusetts Constitution. Section 3: Authority. This Section is adopted pursuant to the Home Rule Amendment of the Massachusetts Constitution, Article 89 of the Articles of Amendment, and Massachusetts General Law Chapter 111, Section 31. Section 4: Solid waste facilities shall not be operated in a manner to cause any dangerous, noxious, injurious or otherwise objectionable hazard; noise or vibration, smoke, dust, odor or other objectionable pollution; glare, conditions conducive to breeding of insects, rodents or other vermin, substances, conditions, or elements to an extent so as to adversely affect nearby neighborhoods. Minimum acceptable standards shall be as follows: A: Emissions shall be effectively confined within any building, or controlled to prevent any nuisance, hazard, or other disturbance from being perceptible (without the use of instruments) at any lot line of the site location. B. All use and storage of flammable materials shall be confined and maintained in accordance with the strict provisions set forth by the Chief of the Fire Department acting in accordance with duly established fire prevention regulations, codes and standards. C. Any emission of visible smoke shall meet the then current color standards of the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Division of Air Pollution, and in any event, no emission of smoke shall be greater than 10% opacity. D. There shall be no emission of ash that can cause damage to the health of humans, animals or vegetation, or that can cause excessive soiling. In no event shall emission of any solid or liquid particles in concentration exceeding 0.2 grams per cubic foot of conveying gas or air be permitted. E. The maximum permissible sound pressure level at the closest residenENVIRONMENTAL | SEE PAGE 9 Bus Route Changes The fi rst phase of MBTA’s Bus Network Redesign starts December 15, 2024. Get ready! Learn how these routes will change: ALLSTON Learn More at MBTA.com/BNRPhase1 Sign up for T-Alerts at MBTA.com/SignUp BRIGHTON CENTER

Page 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 MAIL | FROM PAGE 3 For several years she’s gotten help from her husband, John, who sits down at the kitchen counter with her and reads the letters. When they’re done, they write letters back to all the children who included a return address in their Santa letters. She graduated from Saugus High School in 1981. John, 63, moved with his family from Chelsea to Saugus when he was 15. He is a 1974 Saugus High School graduate. He worked for the Saugus Police Department for 33 years and retired in 2009 at the rank of sergeant. Karen and John referred to one heartfelt text they received from an admirer who “hung around with the wrong crowd when he was a kid,” according to John, who got to know him while he was a police offi cer. The grateful kid – now a grownup – wrote a moving letter to Karen and off ered her money to buy postage stamps for the Santa letters. “I’ve always wished I could repay everything your husband did for me as a kid somehow so please let me know if you’ll need more,” the man wrote. “Even though what John did for me is worth way more. I’d probably be in If We Happen To Meet By Accident ... You’ll Be Glad You Found Us! There is a difference between the rest and the BEST! Celebrating 46 Years In Business! TONY’S AUTO BODY Call or Visit 781-321-0032 34 Sharon Street Malden, MA 02148 TONYSAUTOBODYLLC.COM COME VISIT OUR STATE OF THE ART BODY SHOP • Computerized Paint Matching (State of the Art Spray Booth) • Computerized Frame Machines • P.P.G. Refinishing System • R134 + 1234yf A/C Machines Fully Insured -RS2415 Insurance Company Approval ALL OUR WORK IS GUARANTEED! TONY BARTOLO Owner 46 Years Let Us Handle Your Next Insurance Claim. Go With the BEST It Doesn’t Get BETTER! RENTAL CARS Available John and Karen Coburn noted the overwhelming support they received from Saugus residents on social media after they learned she could no longer set up her mailbox for Santa letters at the Saugus Post Offi ce in Cliftondale. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) WINTER CONCERT | FROM PAGE 6 line snaked around the hallways to the auditorium doors, but everyone did get a seat once they were inside. The sixth graders started the concert with “Hot Cross Buns” – moving on to “Down By The Station.” The kids did a great job, especially considering that some of these young people had not even held their instruments until a few months ago. A traditional English folk song called “Country Walk” was among the charming tunes, and then one of my favorite seasonal carols, “Good King Wenceslas.” The music included some songs that most people would be familiar with, such as “Jolly Old St. Nick” and “Jingle Bells” but also a round called “Sweetly Sings the Donkey.” A special guest was Miss Massachusetts Teen Maggie Leighton from Leominster High, who is an advocate for music education. She spoke briefl y on the importance of music, then joined in on some of the songs on the piano herself. All three middle school prison or dead if it weren’t for him. I love what you’re doing Merry Xmas to you and John.” John got a little emotional as he recalled some of the reaction he’s observed. “I’m so proud of the Saugus people that they don’t want to see this end. They know it’s a good thing,” he said. Over the years, Karen said, she has received personal satisfaction, but said she never fully understood until now how special writing “Santa letters” can be. “I myself didn’t realize what big event it was and how important to people it is. I did it because I cared for the children,” she said. “I hope to do this for many, many years,” she said. Among those who re - sponded to her text was Alex Manoogian. “Wait a minute. Why were you responding to letters [for] Santa?” Manoogian asked. “I thought Santa himself was writing back to me. This whole time, and now at 38 years old, I fi nd out it’s been you?” grades – six, seven and eight – played “Candy Cane Lane” and a few more seasonal songs. Music directors Justin Jones and Evan Smith provided the names of the songs for the benefi t of the audience. After the sixth graders rejoined the audience, the older students performed a few more tunes, including a medley from “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and a creative mashup of “Silent Night” and “All Through The Night.” The more experienced group also played “Feast of Stephen,” a more complex version of “Good King Wenceslas,” before the Middle School Jazz Band took over the performance. Their version of “Up on The Housetop” had some delightful extra fl ourishes from what is most often heard. During the Intermission, the Band Parents announced the raffl e basket winner. Evan Smith accompanied the chorus on the piano following the intermission. They sang a Hannukah song, then “Winter Stillness,” which incorporates some traditional German songs, “Silver Bells” and “Holiday Road.”TLINES:

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 Page 9 Saugus Girl Scouts spread holiday joy to a needy teen S augus Girl Scout Troop 64281 sponsored a local teen in need as part of the members’ holiday season service project. The Scouts provided items from the teen’s wish list, according to Troop 64281 Leader Carmell Giacobbe. The wish list was provided by Sizzle Salon. “This thoughtful iniMembers of Saugus Girl Scout Troop 64281 teamed up recently to help fulfill a local teen’s Christmas gift list. From left to right: Olivia Clark, 13; Avalynn Giacobbe, 12; Olivia Hickman, 13; Charlie Gori, 12; Naomi Tarantino, 12; and Caroline Donoghue, 12. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) tiative not only brightened the teen’s holiday season, but also demonstrated the troop’s commitment to giving back to the community,” Giacobbe said. The troop will have other projects coming up throughout the school year, she said. ENVIRONMENTAL | FROM PAGE 7 tial lot line shall not exceed more than 10 decibels over background levels at any time, and in no event shall sound pressure levels exceed 69 decibels between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. and 61 decibels between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. as measured on a frequency band of 125 cycles per second using a general purpose sound level meter complying with the provisions of the American National Standards Institute, properly calibrated and operated on the “A” weighing network. This regulation shall not apply to: 1. Transient noises of moving vehicles. 2. Noises of safety signals and warning devices. 3. Noises emanating from temporary construction and maintenance activities between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. F. No direct or sky reflected glare whether from flood lights or from high temperature processes shall be permitted when it is determined to be hazardous to human health and welfare or obnoxious. This regulation shall not apply to street lighting or other utilities that are essential for public safety. G. The Board of Health may require such information, data and testing to be performed and supplied at the owners or developers’ expense in order to determine the findings of compliance. Section 5: Violations. Any violation of this section shall be punished by a fine of $300 per violation. Each day of violation shall constitute a new and separate violation.

Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 A Cold Night at Saugus Center Santa Claus led the crowd into Town Hall to warm up as the town hosted its annual Tree Lighting and Festivities F or the first time since 2019, Saugus Town Hall opened its doors to the public as hundreds of residents and visitors celebrated the Annual Tree Lighting and Festivities. The town ushered in the holiday season with one of its most popular events of the year as people gathered on the lawn outside for two hours – 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. Once climbing the steps, he grabbed the microphone, wished everyone a Merry Christmas and gave the 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 got in line to have their photos taken with Santa. It was glove and mitten weather for the three-anda-half-hour event with tractor-drawn hayrides and trackless train rides, as temperatures dipped into the low 30s and upper 20s. But there was plenty to warm the hearts of the people who turned out: hot chocolate to go with cookies, the popular petting zoo, a moon bounce and classic holiday music provided by New England’s Best DJs and Photo Booths. Participants found relief from the cold in the final 90 minutes as parents and other grownups snapped photos of kids sitting with Santa. Many of the kids had their faces painted. (Saugus Advocate photos by Mark E. Vogler) Youth and Recreation Department Director Crystal Cakounes and longtime staff member Liza Manuele served hot chocolate. A huge crowd assembled on Central Street in front of Town Hall. Santa cheered the crowd on. Saugus Town Moderator Steve Doherty with his granddaughters, Brielle, 4 and Ava, 7. Aubrey Giorgetti, 5, of Saugus, hung out with her mother, Kathleen Giorgetti, after getting her face painted. Aaliyah Manos, 6, a first-grader at Veterans Early Learning Center, was the first child to share a moment with Santa Claus. Board of Selectmen Chair Debra Panetta and Selectmen Corinne Riley and Mike Serino prepared to greet Santa. Panetta’s son Mark and Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree are in the background. Rick Kasabuski of Saugus enjoyed the festivities. A tractor-drawn hayride was popular. Face-painter Dahlia Al-Nabulsi (right) put a smile on the face of Aaliyah Manos, 6, while applying the finishing touches of festive colored paint.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 Page 11 State Rep. Donald Wong (R-Saugus) sported his holiday tie. The Saugus High School Band played on. Connor McClory, 7, of Saugus; his brother, Patrick, 3; and their dad, David, petted Pebbles, 7 months, a potbellied pig – held by Jeannie Meredith – who helped out at the petting zoo. Santa makes his way through the crowd. Gianna Giangregorio (center), 6, a first-grader at Veterans Early Learning Center, played with her candy cane as she and her brother John, 9, a fourth-grader at Belmonte STEAM Academy, enjoyed a moment with Santa. Liana Cincotta, 7, a second-grader at Belmonte STEAM Academy, displayed her painted face while joined by her parents, Robert and Jessica Cincotta. Brody Crabtree, 11, son of Saugus Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree, held a chicken that was a fan favorite at the petting zoo. Pictured from left to right: Mark Panetta, Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree, Jeannie Meredith, Mark Panetta Jr. and Board of Selectmen Chair Debra Panetta wait at the top steps for Santa’s arrival. Saugus Center got lit up for the holidays. Brackett Cakounes, 6, the son of Saugus Youth & Rec Director Crystal Cakounes, was the second child to see Santa. Jeannie Sardone, who has lived in Saugus for 23 years, enjoyed the music and some hot chocolate with her granddaughter, Savannah Sardone, 8, of Winthrop. Ken Hanlon and his boss, Scott Elias, the owner of New England’s Best DJs and Photo Booths, kept the crowd entertained with more than a hundred holiday hits.

Page 12 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 By Tara Vocino T he Saugus High School Sachems Varsity Co-Ed Volleyball Team seniors recently shared their future plans during their Senior Night against the Lynn English High School Bulldogs Girls’ Varsity Volleyball Team. Saugus High School Sachems Varsity Volleyball Team seniors unveil their collegiate choices Captain Gia Saunders was accompanied by her proud mother, Jamie. She plans to study political science to become a politician or consumer protection attorney, hopefully at UMass Amherst or Stanford University. Abby Wooldridge was accompanied by her proud parents, Cindy and Michael, her sisters, Colleen and Courtney, and her grandparents, Linda and Tom. She plans to study child psychology to be a child psychologist, hopefully at Salem State University. Kayla Villefranche was accompanied by her proud parents, Esther and Evens, her aunt Nancy Salomon and her sisters, Keisha and Shelbi. She plans to study business management and marketing to open a business, hopefully Suffolk University, UMass Amherst or Bentley University. Brianna Feldman was accompanied by her proud parents, Michael and Frannie during Tuesday’s Saugus High School Sachems Co-Ed Volleyball Senior Night at Saugus High School against the Lynn English High School Bulldogs. She plans to study biology to become an oncologist or a disease prevention doctor. Her top choice is Northeastern University. Brianna Feldman was accompanied by her proud aunt, Phylis Barone, of Everett. Katie Barletta was accompanied by her proud parents, Judy and Michael, with her brother, Danny. She plans to study early childhood education to become a kindergarten teacher, hopefully at the University of Rhode Island. Olivia Chaisson was accompanied by her proud parents, Dave and Laurie, and her sister, Ava. She plans to study early childhood education to become a first-grade teacher, hopefully at Fairfield University. Bottom row, shown from left to right, are: Kayla Villefranche, Aiyana Cruz, Mara Faiella, Brianna Feldman, Ally Mabee and Katie Barletta; Top row, shown from left: Maria Silva, Meghan Xavier, Olivia Chaisson, Gia Saunders, Gabriel Souza, Abby Wooldridge, Peyton DiBiasio and Head Coach Mikayla Niles. (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) Seniors, shown from left to right, are: Kayla Villefranche, Olivia Chaisson, Gia Saunders, Brianna Feldman, Abby Wooldridge and Katie Bartlett. Captains, shown from left to right, are: Maria Cruz, Gia Saunders and Ally Mabee.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 Page 13 PCSS II celebrates outstanding fall season in school athletics program ioneer Charter School of Science II (PCSS II) has just celebrated an outstanding season in athletics. While the school, along with its Everett-based sister school Pioneer Charter School of Science I (PCSS I), is highly regarded for its academic programs, the achievements of its student-athletes and its alumni who have transitioned into coaching roles have also contributed significantly to its tradition of excellence within the Massachusetts Charter School Athletic Organization (MCSAO). “This has been a stand-out season for Pioneer Charter athletics,” said PCSS I & PCSS II Athletic Director Phil Signoroni. “We couldn’t be prouder of our students’ work both on the field and in the classroom. Their continued grit and determination over the years have seen our athletics program evolve from relative obscurity to a force to be reckoned with.” In cross country, the Girls Cross Country team had two eighth graders, Reem Ferahi and Naomi MacNeil, finish in the top 20 at the MCSAO P Junior Sabine Desir, 17, of the Girls Volleyball Team (Photo Courtesy of Pioneer Charter School of Science II) Championship Meet on October 24 at Sheepfold Reservation in Stoneham. On the same day, the Boys Cross Country team finished third overall in the MCSAO North Invitational at Breakheart Reservation in Saugus. On October 29, the Boys’ team finished fourth overall at the MCSAO Championship Meet at Sheepfold Reservation. Both the Girls & Boys teams were coached by Aoguzi McDonald. Coach McDonald is a PCSS II alumni and winner of the Pirate of the Year Athletics Award in 2019. The Girls Volleyball Team (Photo Courtesy of Pioneer Charter School of Science II) Notably, the Girls Volleyball team had a regular season record of 19-2, won the MCSAO Championship for the first time in school history and won their first-ever MIAA tournament game in the preliminary round vs. Boston United, and advanced to the first round vs. Carver High School. Coach Adalet Canovic won the MCSAO North Division Coach of the Year, and freshman Lilly Khuon won the MCSAO North Division MVP and was named to the MCSAO North Division All-League team along with sophomore Maya Trigueros, junior Maria Silva and senior Adeyinka Olowu. Sabine Desir, a junior at PCSS II and a member of the Girls Volleyball team, attributed the team’s success to great chemistry and the support of the PCSS II school community. “We consider ourselves to be like a family and are always uplifting and motivating each other,” she said. “Volleyball is a mental game, so it was important for us to have a coachable mindset, and it was also inspirational for us to have faculty, staff, and students come out to support us at the games.” The Girls Soccer Team, which is a co-op with PCSS I, finished in third place in the MCSAO and won their MCSAO Quarterfinal Game vs. Salem Academy, 3-0, to advance to the semifinals, where they lost, 1-0, vs. Boston Collegiate. Juniors Maria Alves and Alaa Zad and sophomore Fatima Nejmi made the MCSAO North Division All-League Team. The Boys’ Soccer Team, which is also a co-op with PCSS I, finished in second place in the MCSAO and narrowly lost in overtime to #1 seed Excel Academy in the MCSAO Championships. The team received its highest ever ranking in the MIAA tournament, entering as the #11 seed in the state. The team beat Salem Academy in the tournament’s first round, advancing past #6 seed Ayer-Shirley in the penalty kicks in the round of 16 and making it to the round of 8, where they eventually lost to #3 seed Bromfield School. For more info about PCSS, access https://www.pio - neercss.org/ Sachems boys basketball coach Joseph Bertrand optimistic about upcoming season By Dom Nicastro A s the Saugus boys basketball team gears up for the 2024-2025 season, head oach Joseph Bertrand, now in his fourth year leading the program, is optimistic about the strides the team can make. Coming off a 4-16 season that saw the team finish last in their conference, Bertrand is focused on fostering growth and building on increased participation this year. “We’ve had a tough few seasons, but this year feels different,” Bertrand said. “The increase in participation is huge for us, and it’s exciting to see the program grow to the point where all three levels—varsity, JV and freshman—are full without having to bring up eighth graders.” With a full roster at each level, Saugus basketball is poised to create continuity and depth across the program. Bertrand is still evaluating leadership within the team, as no captains have been named yet, but he noted that leadership qualities are emerging among key players. “There’s definitely a shift happening,” he said. “A few players are stepping up and showing great leadership qualities, which is exactly what we need to take the next step as a team.” The varsity roster features a mix of seasoned seniors and promising underclassmen: Cam Victor (Sr) Danny Zeitz (Sr) Javi Cruz Fuentes (Sr) Adam Ballaji (Sr) Ryan Shea (Jr) Jordan Rodriguez (Jr) Nathan Soroko (Jr) Cristian Dean (Jr) Huey Josama (Jr) Bryan Hernandez Malpera (Jr) Ryan Dupuy (Fr) One of the team’s biggest strengths this season lies in their willingness to share the ball, a quality that Bertrand believes will make them more competitive. “We have a solid combination of quickness and height,” he said. “That gives us different options for our play style. Whether it’s playing fast or taking advantage of mismatches inside, we’ll have the flexibility to adapt.” Despite these positives, Bertrand acknowledges that there are areas needing improvement. Turnovers have been an issue, and he’s making ball security a priority in practice. Saugus’ playmaking ability is one of its strengths, but it has to come with discipline. The Sachems need to focus on taking care of the ball to give themselves the best chance to win games. The Northeastern Conference remains highly competitive, with many teams returning experienced players. Bertrand sees this as both a challenge and an opportunity for his team to grow. The league is going to be tough again, but Bertrand feels the Sachems can surprise some people. It’s all about putting in the work, staying focused and playing as a team, the coach added. As Saugus looks to turn the corner after a rebuilding year, Bertrand remains confident in the potential of his squad. With increased participation, emerging leadership and a focus on improving fundamentals, the Sachems are ready to make their mark. Saugus has the pieces to compete. Now it’s about putting it all together on the court. With tip-off just around the corner (Friday, Dec. 13, at Salem, 7 p.m., fans won’t have to wait long to see if Saugus can rise to the occasion.

Page 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 The Sounds of Saugus By Mark E. Vogler Good morning, Saugus The holidays are quickly approaching. Hope everyone is taking the time to enjoy the season, sharing it with friends, acquaintances and people we love. It’s also can be a very challenging time, with not enough time on our personal schedules to get everything we need done. Shopping for presents for family and friends and scheduling holiday dinners go with the season and often make things stressful. Right here in Saugus, there are still plenty of holiday-related events to get involved in. My favorite is the town’s Annual Tree Lighting and Festivities event, which took place Friday. If you have family, it’s always a fun evening. And the great feature of this year’s event was the opening of the recently refurbished second floor auditorium at Town Hall. It was great to see that main asset being used last Friday night. Instead of kids sitting in the cold with Santa in a chair in front of the Saugus Public Library, they got to come out of the cold and warm up inside. Besides the Santa-kid photo op, there was some face-painting. Hopefully, next year, there will be a return of other events, like crafts and a gingerbread house contest and other neat things. I remember a few years before COVID-19 when the town made use of the auditorium on the night of the Tree Lighting. It would be nice to see that again. It was great to see Board of Selectmen Chair Debra Panetta at the event, as she told me she was enjoying some happiness after an emotionally draining week when she lost her mom. It was also good to see all of her board colleagues rally around her with support as she faced one of the difficult personal moments of one’s life – losing a mom. Sooner or later, we all face the tough personal losses. Odd mascots from papers I worked at What do you think about a newspaper that puts the Garfield (the cat) cartoon on the front page of a red rooster on the cover? Early in my newspaper career, I actually worked at a couple of places like that. To the delight of the cat people in their circulation area, the Winter Haven News Chief carried the Garfield comic strip across the front page. The papers also had a cigar store Indian in the visitors’ lobby outside the newsroom. During my days out in West Texas, I worked at the San Angelo Standard-Times, a paper that trotted out the red rooster named General Rainz that allowed the paper to crow any time the dry West Texas region received substantial rainfall. They say General Rainz has been around for a century or more. A makeshift mega “Shout Out” We received a press release from Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree’s office citing a bunch of people in Saugus who contributed to the great success of this year’s Annual Tree Lighting event and festivities. It’s a press release that reflects on the collaborative efforts of many people who helped to make last Friday night a special time for families and other folks who attended the event. We think the press release is worth repeating as makeshift mega “Shout Out.” Town of Saugus Celebrates Annual Tree Lighting Town Manager Scott Crabtree is pleased with the big turnout at Friday’s Tree Lighting Ceremony, as hundreds of residents stopped by the Town Hall grounds to celebrate the start of the holiday season together. Just before 7 p.m., Santa arrived with a police escort on a horsedrawn sleigh and made his way through the cheering crowd to the Town Hall steps. Town Manager Crabtree, the Saugus Board of Selectmen, Santa and the crowd then led a countdown that culminated in Santa and his little friends flipping on the lovely holiday lights in the Saugus Center area. Dozens of families continued inside to the Guy Moley recently shared Christmas Cheer with folks at Heritage Heights. Annually, generous Guy volunteers his time and Christmas scene animation characters. He set up winter wonderland scenes throughout Saugus Housing Authority community areas for all to enjoy. (Courtesy photo of Joanie Allbee The Saugus Advocate) Town Hall Auditorium to meet and get pictures with Santa. Children were also treated to face painting provided by a group of volunteers and Saugus High School students. Smiles abounded throughout the evening as families enjoyed Tree Lighting experiences, such as horsedrawn and tractor-pulled “sleigh” rides, a trackless train, bounce houses and a petting zoo. The Tree Lighting is such an 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 Family Restaurant (hot cocoa and cups) · TrueVine Church (hot apple cider and popcorn) · Saugus High School Band (played holiday hits outside Town Hall, such as “Jingle Bells,” “Silent Night” and “Deck the Halls”) · Saugus High School students and volunteers doing face painting · Phil Rando (assisted with the horses and Santa) “It’s heartwarming to see so many families have a great time at the Tree Lighting,” Town Manager Crabtree said. “Many families look forward to the Tree Lighting each December, as it’s one of those truly special town events that brings the community together and that you don’t want to miss. I thank everyone for all their help and contribution to making this happen.” Saugus United Parish Food Pantry The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry welcomes all neighbors facing food insecurity on Fridays from 9:30-11 a.m. at 50 Essex St. in the basement of Cliftondale Congregational Church. If you are able to donate to the food pantry, you can also stop by during those hours, drop off donations at the Saugus Public Library during library hours or contact office@cliftondalecc. org to make an appointment. Please note that the food pantry will be closed on Friday, December 27, in observance of Christmas. Legion Breakfasts today There’s a good 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 2024-25 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. No new Legion Hall bookings till 2025 The American Legion Post 210 announced recently that it will honor any contract it has signed for a party from now through the end of December, but will not book any new ones until after the first of the year. Wreaths Across America tomorrow On December 14 at noon, the Parson Roby Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (MA0136P) is THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 15

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 Page 15 sponsoring its fourth 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. Band Concert tomorrow at Square One The combined Saugus Middle School and High School Band will be playing at the Square One Mall tomorrow (Saturday, Dec. 14) at 2 p.m. The band will be near the entrance by the closed Sears store. We figure the program will wrap up by 2:45 p.m. A Living Nativity in Saugus tomorrow A special Christmas celebration is set for Dec. 14 at New Hope Assembly, featuring live animals and costumed characters reenacting the birth of Jesus. New Hope Assembly will present its Living Nativity on Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. on church grounds at 9 Assembly Dr. This special event offers a free, family-friendly afternoon filled with Christmas cheer. The Living Nativity will feature beautifully staged scenes bringing the story of Jesus’ birth to life in a unique and interactive way. Guests can walk through the Nativity station and experience the sights and sounds of the first Christmas. In addition to the Nativity, attendees can enjoy festive activities, including crafts, games, live Christmas music and free holiday treats, such as cocoa and baked goods. “This event is a wonderful opportunity to bring people together to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas,” said Jessica Jarosz from New Hope Assembly. “We look forward to welcoming everyone for an afternoon of joy and community spirit.” The event is free to the public, and no registration is required. For more information, contact New Hope Assembly at 781-233-6384 or visit their website. Bring your family and friends to experience the joy of the season and make special holiday memories. This week’s “Shout Outs” We received several nominations this week from readers who wanted to acknowlgo announced this week that area Republicans are confirmed for Jan.15 at 6:30 p.m. at Old Tyme Italian Cuisine in Lynn. DAR Parson Roby Chapter Regent Gail Cassarino, Vice Regent Wendy Renda, Corresponding Secretary Judith Askey (Courtesy photo of Joanie Allbee The Saugus Advocate) edge residents who make a difference and whose contributions lead to the betterment of Saugus. Joanie Allbee: “Hi I’d like to give a BIG Shout Out to ALL the BEHIND THE SCENES workers on FRIDAY & SATURDAY MORNING that make the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR ) WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA A SUCCESS! “Thank you! to the ones who volunteer their time, energy and trucks to transport wreaths to drop off sites and countless other duties to ensure Our Veteran’s graves are honored and covered with a wreath. Vice Regent Wendy Renda’s effort to correspond with Dept. of Defense Vietnam met with success. “Wendy states, ‘The Dept of Defense Vietnam Commemoration recognized Parson Roby Chapter as a Commemorative Partner. To assist and support a grateful nation in thanking and honoring our Vietnam War Veterans, their families, and those who served with, or in support of, the Armed Forces. It is part of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War.’” Euguene Decareau: “I’d like to have a shout out for Lori Davis and the entire Saugus Senior Center Staff for making it one of the best in the state. They are magnificent. Lori is doing a magnificent job. And this is a happy group of people.” Precinct 2 Town Meeting Member Matthew Parlante: “I’d like to shout out my neighbor Kathy Crowley who consistently drags the barrels on the bike path up to the street corner for trash pickup on Mondays. She does that at Laurel Street, Eustis Street and Essex Street by the firehouse. Not only does she drag them up so the trash can be collected, but she puts new garbage bags in them and puts them back in their place. She’s done this each week for years and certainly deserves a shout out. “I’d also like to shout out our DPW dept. Those guys work hard all the time, but I’d especially like to shout them out for their hard work with putting up the Christmas lights around town and for their work with the annual tree lighting. It’s not easy for sure and they’ve done a tremendous job, our Town looks amazingly festive. Great job Saugus DPW!” Want to “Shout Out” a fellow Saugonian? This is an opportunity for our paper’s readers to single out – in a brief mention – remarkable acts or achievements by Saugus residents or an act of kindness or a nice gesture. Just send an email (mvoge@comcast.net) with a mention in the subject line of “An Extra Shout Out.” No more than a paragraph; anything longer might lend itself to a story and/or a photo. Wills, Trusts and Asset Protection Presentation The Saugus-Everett Elks Drug Awareness Committee and Eagle Bank are sponsoring a free Presentation for Wills, Trusts and Asset Protection. This event will be held on Monday, Dec. 16, from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Saugus Senior Center (466 Central St. in Saugus). Eagle Bank will be providing an attorney to discuss many issues: estate taxes, Medicaid, probate, property assignments, advantages and disadvantages of wills and living trusts, and much more. To attend this free event, please call the Saugus Senior Center at 781-231-4178. Light refreshments will be served. Walk-ins welcome. Area Republicans meet Jan. 15 Saugus Town Republican Committee Chair Chris Luon“I am looking forward to meeting you all. Some of you have responded, but if you can once again confirm whether you or how many from your committee will be attending, this will be helpful to make sure we have enough room. Your presence is important and will greatly contribute to the success of our meeting. As this is our first meeting, I would like to have each town do a small introduction and what the types of activities you do as a committee. Please pass the word around to anyone you think might be interested. The following towns have responded. Saugus, Lynn, Nahant, Middleton and Malden “If you have any contacts with other towns, please get in touch with them and let them know. Let us grow our republican numbers and take our State back.” Saugus 4-1-1 set for March 1, 2025 The Saugus 4-1-1 Committee would like everyone to know that the Saugus 4-1-1 event will be taking place on March 1, 2025. Invitations to all new residents as well as nonprofits will be mailed out in January. “We are looking forward to having this wonderful event for new residents as well as those who have been here for years to learn what Saugus has to offer!” Selectman Corinne Riley wrote in an email recently. “Also, if you have a local business or service to promote, send your request or further inquiries to Saugus411@gmail.com. There are ‘Welcome Bags’ that are given out to the new residents with all kinds of information which could include your business or services offered to our Saugus residents. Stay tuned for further updates!” Selectman Riley is the driving force behind the nifty program, which had well-attended events at the Saugus Middle-High School last year and in 2022. THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 18

Page 16 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 Saugus Gardens in the Fall Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable By Laura Eisener D ecember 15 is the December full moon, often called the cold moon. On the night of the town tree lighting last Friday, the moon was a waxing crescent shining over the Civil War monument on the rotary. It continues to shine brighter this week as it heads toward full on Sunday. Mass Audubon regularly holds its Christmas Bird Watch for several days in the winter to gather information about what species of birds are in what areas, and if numbers and ranges have changed. For this year, it begins on December 15, 2024, and ends on January 5, 2025. This is a citizen science project, now in its 125th year, that connects wild bird enthusiasts in local groups to count birds they see as they go on walks, watch visitors to their feeder or even drive around on daily errands. Detailed information can be found on the website below, and anyone can register to participate. https:// www.audubon.org/news/everything-you-need-know-dofree-and-fun-christmas-birdcount? Often some of the summer birds have migrated farther south while other species stay around or may even have come down to our area for the winter after having been farther north in the summer. One of the most popular winter visitors to our local feeders is the northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis). Adult male cardinals have a vivid red plumage, while females are mostly an olive color, with some hints of reddish on their crest feathers. Both males and females have vivid red-orange beaks as adults, while young birds generally have duller beak colors until they are full grown. Cardinals have become more common in Massachusetts in recent decades, according to scientists who make note of the bird count and other “bird census” observations. Their numbers have increased in northern states and Canada, which may be due to warmA northern cardinal perches in an elderberry bush in Lynnhurst. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) On the night of the town tree lighting, the waxing crescent moon could be seen over the town center, helping to illuminate the festivities. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) ing temperatures or to this species generally being on the increase. They can eat quite a wide range of foods, including insects and fruits, but seeds tend to be their favorite. Lights and decorations are increasing in the homes and businesses all over town. Lavish lawn displays can be found in many neighborhoods, including the Lynn Fells Parkway area, which has drawn visitors to see the lights for as long as I can remember, dating back to the 1960s when my family would always spend one evening in the Christmas season driving around the parkway and adjacent streets to admire the decorations. During the 1920s, Saugus was known for its Christmas lights in another part of town – special trains were added during this season to the rail line from Boston to take people to see the lights at Peckham’s Sunken Gardens, which was next to the railroad track near where the bike trail crosses Central Street today. Metal arbors wrapped with greens as well as living trees were lit with small electric lights, at a time when these were not nearly as common as today. The first lights for Christmas trees were candles, which of course required vigilance to keep them from igniting the tree. Electric lights were much safer and could be kept lit for a much longer time, but early electric lights did create heat, which could ignite dry needles. The cool light of LED lights saves electricity and helps make it less likely for the lighting to cause a fire, but, of course, there is still some risk if the lights malfunction or if the tree is dry. In my childhood, C9 bulbs were the ones used to wrap the Christmas tree, and the newer tiny lights were a great novelty when they became available. Now there are programmable lights that can change color, blink at different speeds or produce a variety of effects that could hardly be imagined a decade or so ago. 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 Santa seems to have become a dragon rider in this unusual holiday scene on Taylor Street. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) 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. A small decorated tree in the common room of Saugus Cable TV is one of many festive decorations at 30 Main St. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener) Anyone walking around Saugus Center in the evening can enjoy the red and white lighted tree (Saugus colors) through the window at the Saugus Historical Society. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener)

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 “Our audit will cover all of the topics we were unable to fully review in our previous audit, due to your [earlier] refusal to participate in the audit process,” wrote DiZoglio. “Our work will start with a reIf you have any questions about this week’s report, e-mail us at bob@beaconhillrollcall.com or call us at (617) 720-1562. Beacon Hill Roll Call Volume 49 - Report No. 49 December 2-6, 2024 Copyright © 2024 Beacon Hill Roll Call. All Rights Reserved. By Bob Katzen G ET A FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO MASSTERLIST – Join more than 22,000 people, from movers and shakers to political junkies and interested citizens, who start their weekday morning with MASSterList—the popular newsletter that chronicles news and informed analysis about what’s going on up on Beacon Hill, in Massachusetts politics, policy, media and infl uence. The stories are drawn from major news organizations as well as specialized publications. MASSterlist will be e-mailed to you FREE every Monday through Friday morning and will give you a leg up on what’s happening in the blood sport of Bay State politics. For more information and to get your free subscription, go to: https:// massterlist.com/subscribe/ THE HOUSE AND SENATE:Beacon Hill Roll Call records local representatives’ votes on roll calls from budget vetoes by Gov. Maura Healey. There were no roll calls in the House or Senate last week. $3 MILLION FOR EDUCATION OF EARLY EDUCATORS (H 4800) House 154-2, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of $3 million (reducing funding from $8 million to $5 million) for a program that provides professional development and higher education opportunities and supports for statewide recruitment and training needs of early educators. “I am reducing this item to the amount projected to be necessary,” said Healey in her veto message.“Due to substantial resources made available in this budget for MassEducate, critical wrap-around supports for students and new early educator scholarship and loan forgiveness programs, the portion of funding vetoed here is no longer needed to meet the purpose of this item.” The Senate did not act on the veto so the veto stands and the $3 million was eliminated. (A “Yes” vote is for the $3 million. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. Jessica Giannino Yes Rep. Donald Wong Yes $300,000 FOR UMASS CENTER IN SPRINGFIELD (H 4800) House 134-24, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of the $300,000 for a reserve fund for the UMass Center in Springfi eld, a satellite of UMass Amherst, where academic programming is offered. Healey said the veto brought the budget for this line-item back in line with her fi scal 2025 budget recommendation and what the administration understood to be necessary for the operation of the center in fi scal 2025. The Senate did not act on the veto so the veto stands and the $300,000 was eliminated. Sen. Adam Gomez and Reps. Carlos Gonzalez and Orlando Ramos, the three legislators who represent diff erent parts of Springfi eld, did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking them to comment on the veto and override by the House and why the Senate did not act on the override, resulting in the loss of $300,000. (A “Yes” vote is for the $300,000. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. Jessica Giannino Yes Rep. Donald Wong NoALSO UP ON BEACON HILL AUDIT THE LEGISLATURE – State Auditor Diana DiZoglio sent a letter last week to top Beacon Hill Democrats, including House Speaker Ron Mariano (D-Quincy) and Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland), demanding that they comply with her plans for an audit of the Legislature. DiZoglio’s letter comes after voters in November approved Ballot Question 1 asking them if they favor allowing the state auditor to audit the Legislature. view of high-risk areas, such as state contracting and procurement procedures, the use of taxpayer-funded nondisclosure agreements and a review of your balance forward line item - including a review of all relevant fi nancial receipts and information.” Mariano’s opposition to the audit goes back several years. In March 2023, he said in a letter to DiZoglio, “That your offi ce has the legal authority to conduct an audit of the General Court is a claim entirely without legal support or precedent, as it runs contrary to multiple, explicit provisions of the Massachusetts Constitution and is wholly unnecessary as the public currently has full and ready access to the House’s fi - nancial information.” A new debate began last week about when the voter-approved law actually takes eff ect. DiZoglio at a press conference said that it takes effect on Dec. 5, marking 30 days from the November 5th election. Secretary of State Bill Galvin disagrees and maintains the law takes eff ect on January 4th -- 30 days from the December 4 certifi cation of the November election results. RAISE THE REQUIRED MINIMUM AUTO INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR PROPERTY DAMAGE AND BODILY INJURY (H 5100) – The Senate adopted and sent to the House a Gov. Healey amendment changing the eff ective date of a new law that increases the minimum amount of liability auto insurance a driver must purchase, from $5,000 for property damage to $30,000; and for bodily injury from $20,000 per person/$40,000 per accident to $25,000/$50,000. The law approved by the Legislature was scheduled to take eff ect immediately. Healy’s amendment would delay the eff ective date to July 1, 2025. Gov. Healey said she supports the increases. “The current amounts have not been updated in over 30 years and the proposed increases would provide meaningful coverage for those who experience personal injury or property damage due to a motor vehicle accident,” said Healey. “But I also recognize that the language Page 17 as currently drafted would become eff ective immediately upon my signature, providing insurance companies inadequate time for implementation. Insurers must update current policies and submit new forms and rates to the Commissioner of Insurance for review and approval before implementing these changes. Based on feedback from industry stakeholders, pushing out the eff ective date to July 1, 2025 will ensure that these changes take place in an orderly way.” $294.8 MILLION FOR CLEAN WATER - The Massachusetts Clean Water Trust approved $294.8 million in new low-interest loans and grants to help communities build or replace water infrastructure that enhances ground and surface water resources. Supporters said the funds will ensures the safety of drinking water, protect public health and develop resilient communities. $5 MILLION TO PROTECT FOREST LANDS - The Healey Administration announced more than $5 million in grants to protect forest land which will be managed as reserves. These projects are designed to fi ght climate change and allow forests to mature, strengthening how these habitats store carbon. The grant program, a result of the Forest as Climate Solutions Initiative, aims to designate 10 percent of Massachusetts forests as reserves, where active management is limited and natural processes play out. “Forests are our best natural carbon sinks,” said Energy and Environmental Aff airs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “As trees age, they absorb and store more carbon dioxide – crucial in helping us fi ght climate change. By supporting community and land trust eff orts to limit land conversion and increase permanent land conservation, we are preserving forests for generations to come.” “Few things are more important than protecting our environment, and I’m elated that our state is preserving these beautiful pieces of land in Ashland and around the entire commonwealth,” said Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland). TEACHER OF THE YEAR - Gov. Healey announced that that Luisa Sparrow, a special education teacher for fi fth- and sixthgrade students at the Oliver Hazard Perry School in South Boston, is the 2025 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year. The Massachusetts Teacher of the Year is the state’s top award for educators and annually recognizes excellence in teaching across Massachusetts through the selection of a teacher who exemplifi es the dedication, commitment and positive contributions of educators statewide. The award is sponsored by Wellpoint, a Woburn-based health benefi ts company which is giving a $10,000 grant to Sparrow’s school. “My mom was a school nurse and my stepdad was a public school teacher, so I have a deep appreciation for the incredible work that our educators and staff do day in and day out for their students,” said Gov. Healey. “It was so special to have the opportunity to congratulate and celebrate Ms. Sparrow today for her commitment to creating an inclusive learning environment that helps all of her students grow and succeed together.” “Ms. Sparrow is an example of the exceptional educators we have in Massachusetts who go above and beyond to support all of their students and foster an inclusive learning environment,” said Education Secretary Patrick Tutwiler. “It’s a pleasure to celebrate with her, her dedicated team, students and school community today.” “My students, just like all others with signifi cant disabilities, deserve the opportunity to learn alongside their neurotypical peers not because they are able do many of the same tasks, but simply because everyone deserves a chance to belong,” Sparrow said upon accepting the award. UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE - The Massachusetts Campaign for Single Payer Health Care (Mass-Care) announced the offi cial results of its Question 6 (or 7), depending on the district, which was on the November ballot in eleven state representative districts. The question was approved in all eleven districts with an average Yes vote of 64 percent. The ballot question specifically asked, “Shall the representative for this district be instructed to vote for legislation to create a single-payer system of universal health care BEACON | SEE PAGE 19

Page 18 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 15 Here’s what’s going on at the Saugus Public Library Five bucks for a bag of books! The New Friends of the Saugus Public Library are off ering quite a bargain: $5 for a bag of books. Purchase a New Friends of the Saugus Public Library mesh book bag at the Main Desk for $5 and fi ll it with as many books as you’d like. Proceeds benefi t the New Friends so they can support public library services in Saugus. Foreign language books for adults coming soon! Books will be located on the second fl oor past the Young Adult Fic- 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. ES24P1864EA Estate of: ANNIE JOSEPHINE FARLEY Also Known As: ANNIE J. FARLEY Date of Death: 02/22/1992 CITATION ON PETITION FOR ORDER OF COMPLETE SETTLEMENT A Petition for Order of Complete Settlement has been filed by Bernard L. Sturniolo of Saugus, MA requesting that the court enter a formal Decree of Complete Settlement including the allowance of a final account and other such relief as may be requested in the Petition. 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 01/20/2025. 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. WITNESS, Hon. Frances M. Giordano, First Justice of this Court. Date: December 09, 2024 PAMELA A. CASEY O’BRIEN REGISTER OF PROBATE December 13, 2024 tion section. Spanish, Portuguese, French, Vietnamese, Arabic and Haitian Creole books will be available to check out. Read in your native language or practice a language that is new to you! Please come to the Teen Manga and Cosplay event in the Brooks Room at the Saugus Public Library on Monday, December 9, from 5:30-7:00 p.m. Please join us for the Teen Book Club on Monday, December 16, at 5:30 in the Brooks Room. We will be discussing “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas. Chestnut Woods Rehab begins “Operation Santa Paws” Chestnut Woods Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center in Saugus, where residents often benefi t from animal-assisted therapy visits, has launched “Operation Santa Paws” to collect pet supplies and donate them to the Protection of Animals in Wakefi eld Society (PAWS). Through Dec. 22, the skilled nursing facility at 73 Chestnut St. welcomes donated items, such as blankets and towels, dog and cat beds, unopened pet food/treats, pet toys, grooming products, collars and leashes and food/water bowls. Therapy animals play a vital role in long-term care residents’ lives, particularly those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Benefits of animal therapy for seniors include emotional uplift, increased self-esteem, improved social skills and reduced risk of depression and anxiety. For more information, visit ChestnutWoodsRehab.com. A Video for Vets Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree and Veterans’ Service Offi - THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 21 Say nior Say nr Sa y Senior Senio by Jim Miller What Happens to Your Debt When You Die? Dear Savvy Senior, Can my kids inherit my debt after I die? I have taken on a lot of credit card debt over the past 10 years or so, and I’m worried that my son and daughter will get stuck with it when I die. Indebted Senior Dear Indebted, In most cases when a person with debt dies, it’s their estate, not their kids, that is legally responsible. Here’s what you should know. Debt After Death When you die, your estate – which consists of the stuff you own while you’re alive (property, investments and cash) – will be responsible for paying your debts. If you don’t have enough cash to pay your debts, your kids will have to sell your assets and pay off your creditors with the proceeds. Whatever is left over is passed along to your heirs as dictated by the terms of your will, if you have one. If you don’t have a will, the intestacy laws of the state you reside in will determine how your estate will be distributed. If, however, you die broke, or there isn’t enough money left over to pay your “unsecured debts” – credit cards, medical bills, personal loans – then your estate is declared insolvent, and your creditors will have to eat the loss. “Secured debts” – loans attached to an asset such as a house or a car – are a diff erent story. If you have a mortgage or car loan when you die, those monthly payments will need to be made by your estate or heirs, or the lender can seize the property. There are, however, a couple of exceptions that would make your kids legally responsible for your debt after you pass away. One is if your son and/or daughter is a joint holder on a credit card account that you owe on. And the other is if either one of them cosigned a loan with you. Spouses Beware If you’re married, these same debt inheritance rules apply to surviving spouses too, unless you live in a community property state, which includes Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin. In these states, any debts that one spouse acquires after the start of a marriage belongs to the other spouse too. Therefore, spouses in community property states are usually responsible for their deceased spouses’ debts. Protected Assets If you have any IRAs, 401(k)s, brokerage accounts, life insurance policies or employer-based pension plans, these are assets that creditors usually cannot get access to. That’s because these accounts typically have designated benefi ciaries, and the money goes directly to those people without passing through the estate. Settling the Estate You should also make your kids aware that if you die with debt, and you have no assets, settling your estate will be fairly simple. Your executor will need to send out letters to your creditors explaining the situation, including a copy of your death certifi cate, and that will probably take care of it. But your kids may still have to deal with aggressive debt collectors who try to guilt them into paying. If you have some assets, but not enough to pay all your debts, your state’s probate court has a distinct list of what bills get priority. The details vary by state, but generally estate administrating fees, funeral expenses, taxes and last illness medical bills get paid fi rst, followed by secured debts and lastly, credit card debts. Need Legal Help? If you or your kids have questions or need legal assistance, contact a consumer law attorney or probate attorney. If you can’t aff ord a lawyer, go to LawHelp. org to search for free legal help in your area. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book. ior

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 Page 19 Saugus girls basketball 2024-2025 season preview: building on breakthrough success By Dom Nicastro A fter years of near-misses in the postseason, the Saugus High School girls basketball team finally shattered its playoff barrier last season with a commanding 58-12 victory over North High of Worcester in the Division 3 state tournament. Though their playoff run ended in the next round against a strong Dover-Sherborn team, the Sachems capped the year with a commendable 14-8 record and an NEC Lynch championship. With second-year head coach Joe Lowe at the helm, the team enters the 2024-2025 season with a mix of optimism and determination to build on their breakthrough success. Saugus will rely heavily on its core group of captains, who bring a wealth of talent and leadership to the team. Ella Castle: “I’d argue she is the best shooter in the league,” said Lowe. Castle has taken on a more vocal leadership role this season, stepping up as a guide for her teammates both on and off the court. Peyton DiBiasio: “I truly believe Peyton should have been the MVP of the league the past BEACON | FROM PAGE 17 that provides all Massachusetts residents with comprehensive health care coverage including the freedom to choose doctors and other health care professionals, facilities and services and eliminates the role of insurance companies in health care by creating an insurance trust fund that is publicly administered?”QUOTABLE QUOTES “As soon as we heard the news about Trump’s election, it really sent huge shockwaves through immigrant communities. We heard in the days following the election just so much fear. People are afraid of what’s coming. They’re afraid, for some folks, that they could lose a status, that they could be at risk for being arrested, potentially detained, potentially deported and could be facing family separation. --- Elizabeth Sweet, executive two seasons and will ultimately take the title this year,” Lowe said. Known for her dominance on the court, DiBiasio has also made a concerted effort to connect with younger players, fostering team cohesion. Madison Botta: “Botta is a relentless competitor who brings effort to everything she does,” said Lowe. Her intensity and drive set the tone for the entire team, elevating the collective energy and focus. Taylor Deleidi: “Taylor is right there with Ella as a great shooter,” Lowe noted. “I have enjoyed seeing her commitment to playing defense and expanding her game beyond just shooting so far into the year.” Deleidi’s positive attitude and influence are key to maintaining team morale. One of Saugus’ greatest strengths this season will be its physicality and defensive intensity. “I think our toughness and physicality while being the most in-shape team for whoever we play will help us wear teams down,” Lowe said. Early practices have demonstrated a strong commitment to defense, with the team showing the grit needed to compete against any opponent. director of the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA), in an interview with the State House News Service. “Massachusetts residents have been kept in the dark about the conditions within emergency housing shelters for migrants. The shocking stories coming to light underscore just one reason why the HealeyDriscoll Administration needs to put an end to its open door policy welcoming migrants.” ---Mass GOP Chair Amy Carnevale on reports that Jon Fetherston, the former Director of a Massachusetts migrant shelter, has come forward as a whistleblower, exposing deeply disturbing and inhumane incidents within the state’s emergency shelter system. “The survey’s findings highlight just how prevalent speeding is, especially among drivers who take other risks behind the With the graduation of eight seniors, the Sachems face the challenge of building chemistry with a revamped roster. “Each year brings new dynamics,” Lowe said. “Playing for each other and coming together to win is what I am looking to see.” Developing this sense of unity will be critical as the team works to mesh its veteran leaders with younger contributors. The Northeastern Conference small division is shaping up to be highly competitive. While Danvers’ move to the large division opens opportunities, Lowe identifies Winthrop and Swampscott as the preseason favorites. “Winthrop and Swampscott are both tough teams with good coaches and a lot of talent,” Lowe said. “Those two will definitely be the favorites to win the league on the small side.” Salem’s return to the small division also adds another layer of competition, making for a wide-open race. Coach Lowe’s second year at the helm brings high expectations for the Sachems. With a focus on toughness, conditioning and defensive intensity, the team is well-positioned wheel. Enforcement, community outreach and education continue to be absolutely critical to curbing a wide range of risky driving behaviors and ultimately lowering the number of traffic crash fatalities in the U.S.” ---Mark Schieldrop, spokesperson for AAA, on its study that a higher proportion of American drivers admit to speeding, driving distracted and engaging in other risky behaviors than those who steadfastly follow the rules of the road. “The latest revenue numbers offer clear evidence that the ultra-wealthy are remaining in Massachusetts and paying more in state taxes. Because the ultra-rich are finally paying closer to their fair share of state taxes, Massachusetts can afford to invest in the well-educated workforce and reliable transportation system our economy BEACON | SEE PAGE 21 to contend for another NEC title and potentially make a deeper postseason run. The leadership of Castle, DiBiasio, Botta and Deleidi, combined with the team’s work ethic, will be central to achieving these goals. If the Sachems can navigate their new dynamics and capitalize on their strengths, they have the tools to build on last year’s momentum. As Lowe put it, “From how we have practiced so far, the girls have shown a commitment to playing hard on the defensive end of the court.” - 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. ES24P3246EA Estate of: WILLIAM PETER CODA Date of Death: 09/29/2024 CITATION ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION To all interested persons: A Petition for S/A - Formal Probate of Will with Appointment of Personal Representative has been filed by Janis M. Stanziani of Lynnfield, 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: Janis M. Stanziani of Lynnfield, MA be appointed as Personal Representative(s) of said estate to serve 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 01/08/2025. 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: December 04, 2024 PAMELA A. CASEY O’BRIEN REGISTER OF PROBATE December 13, 2024

Page 20 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 OBITUARIES Carol A. (Schirl) Mancini Boston and raised in Malden, Mrs. Mancini was the daughter of the late Stanley and Helen (Malinski) Schirl. She was a former controller for John Hancock Insurance Company. A resident of Saugus for the past 38 years, Carol was a member of the Saugus Watershed Commission and frequently attended the Saugus Senior Center. She was an avid piano player and singer. She also loved animals. Most of all, Carol was always the family caregiver. Mrs. Mancini is survived by O f Saugus. Died on Thursday, December 5th at Melrose-Wakefield Hospital at the age of 84. She was the wife of the late Richard J. Mancini. Born in her two daughters, Debra Panetta and her husband Mark and Karen Brown all of Saugus; four grandchildren, Mark Panetta, Jr., Sabrina Panetta, William Brown and Sarah Moffitt; and her sister-in-law, Dorothea Schirl of Saugus. She was predeceased by her two Announcement The Saugus Board of Selectmen is accepting applications for appointments to the Saugus Cemetery Commission for the Town of Saugus. This is a volunteer/unpaid position for Saugus residents. Those interested may submit letter of interest/ resume, no later than January 13, 2025. Saugus Board of Selectmen Saugus Town Hall 298 Central Street, Suite 4 Saugus, MA 01906 December 13, 2024 O 1.On Dec. 13, 11967, what actor in “In Living Color,” who later had his own show and starred in “Ray,” was born? 2.The Yeti (abominable snowman) has mostly been reported to exist in what mountains? 3.What U.S. First Lady who had worked as a journalist established the White House tradition of themed Christmas decorations? 4.Traditionally, what is a sugarplum? 5.On Dec. 14, 1994, construction began on the Three Gorges Dam on what river? 6.Is a snowstorm the same as a blizzard? 7.On Dec. 15, 2011, what war ended? 8.What is sometimes known as five-alarm? f Saugus. Died on Wednesday, December 4th at the Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers. She was the loving wife of John L. DeFranzo with whom she shared 53 years of marriage. Born, raised in and 9.In which year did a human first go to space: 1961, 1965 or 1970? 10.How are Huron, Mohawk and Oneida similar? 11.On Dec. 16, 1903, NYC immigrant Italo Marchioni received a patent for what food container that is edible? 12.What is “Mounties” a nickname for? 13.On Dec. 17, 1979, what U.S. president was the first to recognize Hanukkah by lighting a menorah? 14.How are pinkie, ring and index similar? 15.What Shakespeare play title brothers, Kenneth Schirl and Stanley Schirl, Jr. Relatives and friends were invited visiting hours in the Bisbee-Porcella Funeral Home Saugus on Thursday, December 12th followed by a funeral mass in Blessed Sacrament Church, 14 Summer St., Saugus at 10:30 a.m. Entombment at Holy Cross Mausoleum in Malden. In lieu of flowers, donations in Carol’s memory may be made to either Blessed Sacrament Church, 14 Summer St., Saugus 01906 or to the Northeast Animal Shelter at northeastanimalshelter.org. Gail M. (Richmond) DeFranzo a lifelong resident of Saugus, Gail was the daughter of the late George J. and Gloria (Lauretano) Richmond. A graduate of Saugus High School, Mrs. DeFranzo was a devoted homemaker and mother. Gail was never truly satisfied until everyone ate; she made sure of it. Besides her husband she is survived by her two beloved sons Richard DeFranzo of and Brian DeFranzo both of Saugus and two cherished grandsons, Jake and Nick. She was the sister of the late Ann Starkey. Relatives and friends were cordially invited to attend visiting hours in the Bisbee-Porcella Funeral Home, Saugus, on Sunday December 8. A funeral service was held in the funeral home on Monday. Interment will follow at Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, Peabody. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org. Jean E. (Watts) Surette A longtime resident of Saugus, passed away on Monday, December 10th, at the age of 75.Jean was born in Malden in 1949, the daughter of Francis and Eleanor Watts. She was raised and educated in Malden, graduating from Malden High School with the Class of 1967. includes a name of an animal? 16.What country has “snow monkeys” (macaques) 17.On Dec. 18, 1892, what Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky ballet debuted in St. Petersburg? 18.What sci-fi character did James Earl Jones play the voice of? 19.In 2013, Guinness World Records awarded Brooklyn resident Scott Wiener for having the most kinds of what food container? 20.On Dec. 19, 1915, what French singer and actress known for “La Vie en Rose (Life in Pink) was born? In 1968, Jean married her sweetheart, Ronald C. Surette in Sacred Hearts Church in Malden. They settled down in Saugus where they raised their family. Jean attended the Mansfield Academy in Boston and Massachusetts Barber School in Lynn.She worked as a hairdresser and a barber for a short time, before taking a job as an operator for Cross Country Automotive Services, where she worked until her retirement. Jean is survived by her husband of 56 years, Ronald C. Surette, her son Ronald J. Surette and wife Nicole of Saugus, her sister Beatrice Moran of Haverhill, her brother Frank Watts of Malden, and her grandchildren Alex and Tiffany., as well as many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her daughters Jeanne Bergeron and Charlene Surette-Watts, and her sisters Eleanor Palmer and Ruth Brown. All services will be private. ANSWERS 1.Eric Marlon Bishop (known professionally as Jamie Foxx) 2.High Himalayas 3.“Jackie” Kennedy 4.A candy of hardened sugar layers around nuts, seeds or spices in a plum shape 5.Yangtze 6.Meteorologists have strict stipulations for a blizzard, such as visibility and wind speed. 7.Iraq 8.A fire or hot chili 9.1961 (cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin) 10.They are Iroquois Indian tribes. 11.Ice cream cone 12.The Royal Mounted Police of Canada 13.Jimmy Carter 14.They are types of fingers. 15.“The Taming of the Shrew” 16.Japan 17.“The Nutcracker” 18.Darth Vader 19.Pizza boxes (595) 20.Édith Piaf

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 Page 21 BEACON | FROM PAGE 19 depends on. Thanks to the voters who amended our Constitution to establish a fairer tax system, we can make Massachusetts more aff ordable for working families and start building an economy that works for everyone.” --- Andrew Farnitano, spokesperson for the Raise Up Massachusetts coalition, which led the campaign to pass the 2022 ballot question which imposed an additional 4 percent income tax, in addition to the fl at 5 percent one, on taxpayers’ earnings of more than $1 million annually. HOW LONG WAS LAST WEEK’S SESSION? Beacon Hill Roll Call tracks the length of time that the House and Senate were in session each week. Many legislators say that legislative sessions are only one aspect of the Legislature’s job and that a lot of important work is done outside of the House and Senate chambers. They note that their jobs also involve committee work, research, constituent work and other matters that are important to their districts. Critics say that the Legislature does not meet regularly or long enough to debate and vote in public view on the thousands of pieces of legislation that have been fi led. 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 2-6, the House met for a total of two hours and 53 minutes 37 minutes and the Senate met for a total of two hours and 50 minutes. .MonDec. 2House11:02 a.m. to1:01p.m. Senate 11:01 a.m. to1:09p.m. Tues.Dec. 3No House session No Senate session Wed. Dec. 4No House session No Senate session Thurs. Dec. 5House11:02 a.m. to 11:56a.m. Senate 11:13 a.m. to 11:55a.m. Fri.Dec.6No 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. SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 18 cer Paul Cancelliere have collaborated on a video that highlights the work the Town of Saugus’ Veterans’ Services Offi ce does to help local veterans and their families. In the video, Cancelliere explains how the Veterans’ Services Offi ce follows three main pillars in advocating for veterans. These pillars are: · Implementing a variety of state benefi ts to aid veterans and their families · Processing U.S. Department of Veterans Aff airs (VA) claims for veterans and off ering assistance for things such as homebuying, education, life insurance and burials · Community outreach by working with the Saugus Veterans Council to help put together events, such as the Memorial Day Parade, POW/MIA Recognition Day and the Veterans Day ceremony THE SOUNDS | SEE PAGE 22 Lawn and Yard Care SNOW PLOWING *REASONABLE RATES * PROMPT SERVICE * PARKING LOTS USA 781-521-9927 KNIVES & SCISSORS SHARPENED Sharp Services Inc. 222 Centre St., Saugus (617) 590-3500 Aging in Place? AmeriGlide offers affordable stair lifts to keep you safe on the stairs. Benefits of an AmeriGlide stair lift: Regain your independence Eliminate the risk of falls on the stairs Access all levels of your home CALL NOW TO SAVE $200 1-844-237-6716 r ON ANY STAIR LIFT! Call today and r FREE SHOWER P PLUS $1600 OFF GE 0 OFF 1-844-609-10661 walk-in tub purchase. Offer available while supplies last. No cash value. Must present offer at time of purchase. CSLB 1082165 NSCB 0082999 0083445 With purchase of a new Safe Step Walk-In Tub. Not applicable with any previous y Name_________________________________________ Address_______________________________________ City_______________ State_______ Zip ____________ CC# _______________________________ Exp. _____ Sec. code____ Advocate (City):___________________ Clip & Mail Coupon with Credit Card, Check or Money Order to: Advocate Newspapers Inc. PO Box 490407, Everett, MA 02149 Advertise in The Advocate! Call 781-233-4446 for great rates! Your Hometown News Delivered! EVERETT ADVOCATE MALDEN ADVOCATE REVERE ADVOCATE SAUGUS ADVOCATE One year subscription to The Advocate of your choice: $175 per paper in-town per year or $225 per paper out-of-town per year. SPECIAL OFFER Call Driveways from $35

Page 22 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 We follow Social Distancing Guidelines! 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 SOUNDS | FROM PAGE 21 The Saugus Veterans’ Services Office is located on the main floor of Saugus Town Hall at 298 Central St. Paul Cancelliere serves as the veterans’ services officer, and Nancy Stead is the administrative assistant for the department. For more information call 781-2314010 or email pcancelliere@ saugus-ma.gov, veteransservices@saugus-ma.gov or nstead@saugus-ma.gov About The Saugus Advocate We welcome press releases, 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. Licensed & Insured Free Estimates Carpentry * Kitchen & Bath * Roofs * Painting Decks * Siding * Carrijohomeimprovement.com Call 781-710-8918 * Saugus, MA General Contractor * Interior & Exterior 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 Clean-Outs! We take and dispose from cellars, attics, garages, yards, etc. Call Robert at: 781-844-0472 855-GO-4-GLAS 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 photo to submit, please email me at mvoge@comcast.net or leave a message at 978-6837773. 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.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, DECEmbEr 13, 2024 Page 23 MANGO REALTY INC 781-558-1091 / infowithmango@gmail.com / www.mangorealtyteam.com TURN-KEY HOME in WEST PEABODY - $839,000 Looking to buy or sell your property? Call us at 781-558-1091 or email infowithmango@gmail.com. Visit our website at mangorealtyteam.com for exclusive listings, market reports, and a free home valuation tool. Let us help with all you real estate needs! SPACIOUS ROCKPORT TOWNHOME - $699,000 Looking to buy or sell your property? Call us at 781-558-1091 or email infowithmango@gmail.com. Visit our website at mangorealtyteam.com for exclusive listings, market reports, and a free home valuation tool. Let us help with all you real estate needs! 3-FAMILY HOME in LYNN, MA - $899,000 For Sale: Welcome to this fully renovated "turn-key" brick front split in desirable West Peabody, just moments from major highways and shopping. Your budget will enjoy the low residential tax-rate and the attractive municipal electric rates. Owners went above and beyond renovating this well situated spacious 5-bedroom/2 full bath home featuring all new: roof, full bathrooms, appliances, 200-amp service, hi efficiency heat, central A/C, deck rails, exterior paint, composite fencing, many windows, flooring. Open House this Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. Contact: Peter at 781-820-5690. For Sale: Experience the charm of Rockport with this stunning 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom townhome offering 2,656 sq. ft. of spacious living. Priced at $699,000, this home features a thoughtful layout perfect for comfortable living and entertaining, with a low monthly HOA of $135 and a competitive $263 per square foot. Located close to Rockport’s scenic attractions, this property combines comfort with coastal elegance. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this coastal gem your own! For more details, contact Rosa at 781-820-0096 and Jeanine at 617-312-2491. Take a Virtual Tour! Discover the beauty of this stunning Rockport townhome from the comfort of your home. Watch the video tour and see everything this property has to offer! For Sale: 3-family property on a dead-end street features spacious 6-room, 3-bedroom units with stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors, separate utilities, and inunit coin-op washers and dryers. Includes 2-car parking, a 2-year-old gas heating system on the first floor, oil heating on the second and third, and full deleading compliance for all units. Conveniently close to Market Basket and local amenities! Open House this Sunday, December 15, 2024, from 12:00-2:00 PM. Contact: Sue at 617-877-4553 for more details! TRINITY REAL ESTATE Providing Real Estate Services for 17 Years Servicing Saugus, Melrose, Wakefield, Malden, all North Shore communities, Boston and beyond. The Trinity Real Estate Team Sii S Ml Agent Spotlight Lucia Ponte, REALTOR ® Lucia Ponte is a dedicated real estate agent with 20+ years in the service industry, specializing in representing buyers and sellers. Her focus is on client satisfaction, educating consumers, and making transactions seamless and stress-free. Awarded for productivity, Lucia prioritizes relationship building as a local resident and mother. Her goal is to ensure a successful experience for all clients as their REALTOR®. 781.883.8130 i B d bd Th Tiit Rl Ett T LuciaPonte2014@yahoo.com Diane Horrigan is a committed REALTOR ® with over 25 years of experience in Saugus. Her appraisal background enhances her market insight, allowing her to provide personalized service to clients ranging from first-time homebuyers to seasoned investors. She utilizes her local knowledge and network for a seamless real estate experience. Outside of work, Diane is active in her community and enjoys golfing. Clients appreciate her Diane Horrigan, REALTOR ® service and often return for future needs. 781.526.6357 DianeHorrigan.com 321 MAIN STREET | SAUGUS, MA | VILLAGE PARK TrinityHomesRE.com 781.231.9800

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