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SAUGUS Have a Safe & Merry Christmas! DV C T 781-233-4446 Vol. 24, No. 51 -FREEwww.advocatenews.net ublished Every Friday Cliftondale Revitalization Committee’s Final Report draft copy concludes it’s possible to spark new life into the town’s dying business and housing district By Mark E. Vogler with incentives. The town chose the “do nothA 1990 study produced by Lozano, White & Associates – one of more than a half dozen studies done over the last four decades on revitalizing Cliftondale Square – off ered two planning alternatives: no change or a plan advocating mixed use ing” path over the mixed use with incentives alternative, according to a draft copy of the latest study that was issued this week. “As the study indicated, the Square would continue to struggle with a passive approach like that one, and it has,” noted the conclusion section of the “Final Report of the Cliftondale Revitalization Committee.” But the report also resolves that a major turnaround of Cliftondale is possible, providing the town, the property owners of Cliftondale and other stakeTHE SQUARE | SEE PAGE 2 A Holiday Remembrance SHARING HOLIDAY HOPES: Pictured from left to right, are Selectmen Jeff rey Cicolini, Anthony Cogliano, Debra Panetta, Mike Serino and Corinne Riley admire the Christmas tree on the fi rst fl oor of Saugus Town Hall. Please see this week’s “The Advocate Asks” inside to fi nd out what gift each selectman would like to give Saugus for Christmas. Also, see more holiday coverage, including Santa’s Christmas Eve parade route for tonight and Laura Eisener’s “Saugus Gardens In The Winter,” which features a glimpse of how Saugus homeowners have decorated their yards for the holidays. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) Another “suspicious death” in Saugus Police arrest a Lynn man in connection with the death of his girlfriend, whose body was found in a Saugus marsh along Route 107 By Mark E. Vogler Gold Star wife Donna Whittemore-Farris places a fl ag on a ceremonial wreath, honoring POW/MIA veterans. The wreath was one of about 360 that were placed on veterans’ graves in Riverside Cemetery last Saturday (Dec. 18) as Saugus observed National Wreaths Across America Day with a ceremony to honor its veterans for service to their country. Members of the Parson Roby Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution sponsored and organized the event. For story and more photos, please see inside. (Saugus Advocate photo by Tara Vocino) L ess than a week after police arrested a Saugus woman for murdering a man in his Essex Landing apartment on Route 1, police have charged the boyfriend in connection with the death of the Woburn woman whose body was discovered on Tuesday (Dec. 21) in the marsh area along Route 107. On Wednesday (Dec. 22) afternoon, offi cers of the Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section arrested Bruce Maiben, 44, of Lynn, on multiple charges that arose out of the death of Sherell Pringle, 40, of Woburn. Pringle was reported missing by her son when she did not return home last SUSPICIOUS | SEE PAGE 18 ANGELO’S FULL SERVICE Regular Unleaded $3.239 MidUnleaded $3.299 Super $3.419 Diesel Fuel $3.379 "43 Years of Excellence!" 1978-2021 KERO $4.81 DEF $3.49 9 Diesel $3.099 9 HEATING OIL 24-Hour Burner Service Call for Current Price! (125—gallon minimum) DEF Available by Pump! Open an account and order online at: www.angelosoil.com (781) 231-3500 (781) 231-3003 367 LINCOLN AVE • SAUGUS • OPEN 7 DAYS OCA E Friday, December 24, 2021 Can “The Square” be revived? Making A Christmas List For Saugus Prices subject to change Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! FLEET

Page 2 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 THE SQUARE | FROM PAGE 1 holders are committed. “There are challenges in perhaps every category there is, from parking, to dimensional restrictions, to absentee ownership, to restrictive zoning, to lack of vision at a municipal level,” the report acknowledges. “To continue the ‘do nothing’ approach would be a disservice to the citizens, the business community, and the Town of Saugus at-large.” There are close to two dozen short-term and long-term recommendations in the heart of the report, including a proposal to create a zoning overlay district “that allows highest and best use” implementing smart growth principles.” “Cliftondale’s zoning is antiquated and as a result, the district has become stagnant, and the current business mix and lack of 24/7 vitality is contributing to its deterioration,” the report said. “A zoning overlay would lay the appropriate framework and be the first step towards revitalization. Section 1.6 includes a comprehensive list of zoning guidelines and an action plan. This process can certainly be completed within the next few years, if not sooner.” The 467-page report and the 11-member town committee which is crafting it are the products of a unanimous Special Town Meeting vote in February. Town Meeting members 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 Lein * Personal Injury * Bankruptcy * Wrongful Death * Zoning/Permitting Litigation 300 Broadway, Suite 1, Revere * 781-286-1560 Lsimeonejr@simeonelaw.net created the study committee to focus on revitalization of Cliftondale. The group’s responsibility was to investigate potential opportunities, synthesize previous studies, investigate zoning strategies and provide recommendations and initiatives for future Town Meeting consideration. The committee has until Jan. 12 to make any changes in the document that was drafted and released this week by Committee Chair Joe Vecchione, who authored the Town Meeting article earlier this year. The committee will vote at its Jan. 17 meeting on whether to adopt the final report, which will be presented to the next Special Town Meeting or Annual Town Meeting, whichever occurs first. The report’s conclusion stresses that “This committee was formed to contest the notion that nothing can be done by breaking out each issue present in Cliftondale and elaborating on why the issues is present then begin to construct a vision for the area through a thorough zoning guideline and implementable action plan along with recommendations for short term and long-term projects and initiatives.” “This committee believes we accomplished that in this report, and while much of this will fall beyond the scope of this committee, we hope that this report in conjunction with the data and analysis collected over the past 39 years will yield the physical and meaningful results that the town has long been striving for,” the report continued. “However, in order to achieve true and sustainable revitalization in Cliftondale, commitment, continuity, trust, and patience needs to be acquired both in the public and private sectors.” In concluding its work with a presentation to Town Meeting members, the committee also recommends that Town Administration, Town Meeting, and other relevant bodies endorse the initiatives that may be brought forth for consideration from this report. The report recommends: • Reforming the merchants’ association or establishing a “Friends of Cliftondale” committee • Developing a Parking Management Plan • Creating a Signage Plan • Bringing back “Appreciation Day” • Relocating the Farmer’s Market back into Cliftondale • Getting Cliftondale Online. It’s important to develop an online presence so people know what services or products are sold, what their hours of operation are, how to get in contact, and potentially even provide e-commerce. • Branding Cliftondale Square as its own “place” • Developing a Façade / Storefront Improvement Program that would provide financial assistance to property owners or tenants seeking to renovate or restore commercial building exterior facades. The program seeks to increase accessibility into storefronts and improve the physical appearance of independent businesses. THE SQUARE | SEE PAGE 21 Planning Director offers recommendations on how to revitalize Cliftondale Square By Mark E. Vogler S augus Director of Planning and Economic Development Christopher Reilly says the town needs to do a better job in promoting We’ll be closed for the holidays December 24-25th. Wishing you happy holidays and thank you for being both customers and friends. As always, access our ATMs and your Online & Mobile Banking anytime. Enroll at www.EverettBank.com Cliftondale Square. “Cliftondale has not been adequately defined in order to brand and market a distinct area,” Reilly wrote in his recommendations to the Cliftondale Revitalization Committee. Reilly submitted recommendations in late September, at the request of the committee. His list of comments were incorporated in a draft copy of the “Final Report of the Cliftondale Revitalization Committee,” which was issued this week. Reilly’s recommendations for revitalizing Cliftondale also included the following: –There are a number of small public and private parcels in Cliftondale that could accommodate accessible public parking. Until some adequate long-term parking capacity is achieved, I recommend approaching private property owners about lot split opportunities and investigating improvements on public land to incrementally increase existing supply. –Discussion with the 419 BROADWAY. EVERETT, MA 02149 771 SALEM ST. LYNNFIELD, MA 01940 WWW.EVERETTBANK.COM 617-387-1110 781-776-4444 Member FDIC | Member DIF Health Director has placed the installation of full grease COMMITTEE SOUGHT HIS OPINION: Members of the Cliftondale Revitalization Committee asked Christopher Reilly, the town’s Director of Planning and Economic Development, for his views on how to make “The Square” more economically viable. (Saugus Advocate file photo by Mark E. Vogler) trap systems as required for restaurants at about $10,000. The Town should develop an informational permitting guidance template and consider tax increment financing (TIF) for such desirable uses so they can be appropriately marketed and recruiting. –The Town is investing grant money in Cliftondale, such as the Microenterprise Program. The Town has found PLANNING | SEE PAGE 21

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 Page 3 ~ THE ADVOCATE ASKS ~ Here’s what selectmen say they would give as Christmas gifts to Saugus – if they could Board of Selectmen Vice-Chair Debra Panetta We need to complete our SEASONS GREETINGS FROM SAUGUS: Members of the town’s Board of Selectmen stand in front of the Christmas tree set up on the first floor of Saugus Town Hall. Sharing their holiday hopes and best wishes to town residents, are, left to right, Selectman Corinne Riley, Board of Selectmen Vice-Chair Debra Panetta, Board of Selectmen Chair Anthony Cogliano and Selectmen Jeffrey Cicolini and Mike Serino. (Saugus Advocate photo by Mark E. Vogler) For this week’s column, we reached out to each of the members of the Board of Selectmen and asked them if they would like to send a holiday message to our readers. All five selectmen responded. Their individual holiday wishes to the residents of Saugus follow. Q: Please share your thoughts on your Christmas gift for the town this year – something you hope to work for. One gift you want to give the town if it’s in your power as a public official. Board of Selectmen Chair Anthony Cogliano I would love to give the Town a much needed West Side Fire Station and cleaner air for all to breathe....something I’ve been working on for the past two years. There are those that continue to attack and bash Wheelabrator every step of the way. Not me. Increasing the height of the monofill is the least of my concerns. Lowering the emissions, updating the exterior, controlling the noise and finalizing a host community agreement that will bring millions in much needed revenue to Town are the most important issues. Let me present the plan to the Town before condemning it. If the residents don’t think it’s in our best interest, and the Board of Health doesn’t endorse it, we move on. It’s time we move away from the obstructionists and develop a better path to our future. Aside from that, I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy, safe and healthy New Year. God bless. Town’s Master Plan. This process started in 2020 where our Town Manager hired a project consultant, the Metropolitan Area Planning Commission (MAPC), to coordinate this project. The MAPC conducted a kick-off vision forum in September 2020 and asked Saugus residents to fill out an online survey. They received approximately 700 responses over the several weeks the survey was open to the public. This survey was consolidated and presented to the Town as a base to move forward. The Master Plan coordinates the community’s goals & vision by incorporating strategies and actions to move our Town into 2035 (and longer). It will be used as a guide for managing future growth and change in Saugus and create a framework for future policy decisions. Land use and zoning, housing, economic development, transportation, open space and recreation, arts/historic/cultural services, climate resiliency, community facilities and services, and clean energy and sustainability are all part of the Master Plan. Several public meetings were held, and everyone’s concerns and ideas were incorporated into the plan. The Advisory Committee, where I am a member, met this month to review the draft plan. This plan is to be rolled out during a public meeting in early 2022. I want to sincerely thank everyone who participated in the survey and in the public meetings that were held. I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, CHRISTMAS | SEE PAGE 18

Page 4 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 Last, But Certainly Not Least F By Gini Pariseau inally, here it was…Christmas Eve. It was the night Allison had been waiting for. The family would gather around the tree as Allison and her two older brothers gave their parents their gifts. It was the first year Allison had been old enough to be part of giving her very own present to her parents. Allison was excited about her gift because she had made it herself. As her parents sat in the two big chairs beside the fireplace, her brother Jamie pulled a red box with a green bow stuck to the top out from under the tree and handed it to his mom. She read the little tag aloud and opened the box. Inside was a beautiful red candle, and as his dad put a match to its wick, Jamie told them that it would smell like cinnamon in a minute. Everyone waited and commented on the wonderful cinnamon scent. Next came Peter, who proudly presented a gold box LAST | SEE PAGE 18 GREETINGS FROM SANTA CLAUS: Here’s a copy of the Christmas Eve parade route released for tonight (Friday, Dec. 24) by the Town of Saugus. The gift of nighttime baseball for Saugus Teams can now play under the lights at World Series Park UNDER THE LIGHTS: With this year’s completion of the lighting project at World Series Park, teams and spectators will get to enjoy some nighttime baseball next year. (Courtesy aerial photo to The Saugus Advocate by Jim Harrington) (Editor’s Note: The following info is from a press release issued this week by World Series Park.) T he installation of lights at World Series Park was completed the first week of October. No night games were played this season because the teams that play there had concluded their seasons. “The lights came out great,” World Series Park Superintendent Bob Davis said. “It’s beautiful to see the field lit up at night. We’re looking forward to the 2022 season with the addition of a lot of night games. Several teams and leagues have expressed an interest in playing night games,” Davis said. “We very much appreciate those people who donated to our Lighting Fund. It’s not too late to donate.” Anyone who donates $100 or more can get their name or the name of a departed loved one on the permanent lighting fund plaque. It’s located on the third base dugout and is lit up at night. Donations can be made by sending a check payable to World Series Park, 8 Holden Ave., Saugus, MA 01906.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 Page 5 Mom’s Cancer Fighting Angel's Christmas Party Fundraiser At Fuddrucker’s in Saugus (Courtesy photos, Guy Moley) MERRY CHRISTMAS: A Saugus Advocate holiday illustration by “The Sketch Artist”

Page 6 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 Attendees wish veterans a Merry Christmas by placing ceremonial wreaths on their graves By Tara Vocino A pproximately 360 wreaths were placed on veterans’ graves to wish them a Merry Christmas and to thank them for their service during Saturday’s National Wreaths Across America Day ceremony at Riverside Cemetery. Members of the Parson Roby Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), who sponsored the event, asked attendees when placing wreaths on veterans’ graves to say their names aloud and take a moment to thank them for their service to the United States. “It’s a small act that goes a long way toward keeping the memory of our veterans alive,” Parson Roby Chapter Regent Charlotte Line said. Veterans, representing all wars, placed flags on ceremonial wreaths. Shown from left to right: State Rep. Donald Wong, DAR Vice Regent Gail Cassarino, DAR Chaplain Jaclyn Cassarino Smith and Children of the American Revolution member Tony Smith placed a wreath on Malden Police Officer Anthony Perna’s grave. To signify Christmas and to honor veterans’ service, DAR Parson Roby Chapter Regent Charlotte Line (left) with DAR Vice Regent Gail Cassarino placed wreaths on their graves at Riverside Cemetery on Saturday. Parson Roby Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution Chaplain Jaclyn Cassarino Smith delivered an invocation. Shown from left to right are Beverly High School JROTC Cadet Private First Class Ellie Corbett, Cadet Private Jayla Utne, Cadet Corporal Gabby Lane, Cadet Sgt. Anthony Rust and Cadet Corporal Gabriel Mora placing wreaths on veterans’ graves. Veterans placed flags on ceremonial wreaths for each war; pictured from left to right: David Dexter, John Macauda, Jack Klecker, John Line, Lloyd Sayles, Robert O’Toole, Randy Briand and Gold Star wife Donna Whittemore-Farris. Veteran David Dexter placed a flag on a ceremonial wreath honoring U.S. Army veterans. Saugus Board of Selectmen, pictured from left to right: Vice-Chair Debra Panetta, Michael Serino, Chair Anthony Cogliano and Corinne Riley with State Rep. Donald Wong. (Not in photo: Selectman Jeff Cicolini)

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 Page 7 Veteran John Line placed a flag on a ceremonial wreath, honoring U.S. Air Force veterans. Gold Star wife Donna Whittemore-Farris placed a flag on a ceremonial wreath honoring POW/MIA veterans. Parson Roby Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution Vice Regent Gail Cassarino read The American’s Creed. Saugus Veteran’s Council Commander Captain Steven Castinetti thanked veterans for their sacrifice. State Rep. Donald Wong thanked veterans for their service. Judge Samuel Holten Society Children of the American Revolution President Sylvia Renda played taps. Judge Samuel Holten Society Child of the American Revolution Corresponding Secretary Sara Renda read the Children of the American Revolution Creed during Saturday’s National Wreaths Across America Day ceremony. Veterans (left) and JROTC members (right) stand at attention.(Advocate photos by Tara Vocino)

Page 8 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 MBTA actively seeking to hire new employees and expand its workforce Hundreds of well-paying positions are now open at the 'T' he MBTA is aggressively hiring new employees to join its dynamic workforce. It takes many people to move over a million trips a day, and the 6,500-person MBTA is redoubling eff orts to hire hundreds of open positions – from train and trolley operators, to administrative and technical positions, and especially bus drivers who are in high demand to transport Massachusetts residents to work, play, and everywhere in between. Prospective candidates looking for a rewarding career where they can have a positive impact on the entire region should visit mbta.com/ T careers for more information on open positions and to learn about the MBTA’s many benefi ts and incentives. “The MBTA plays an integral and essential role in keeping Massachusetts moving. The T is a diverse and exciting place to work, and we’re actively hiring and training new employees, especially bus drivers, right now to join our ranks and play a signifi cant part in revitalizing the region post pandemic,” said MBTA General Manager Steve Poftak. “The MBTA is being proactive in recruiting new individuals to join our team and fast-tracking the hiring process, and will continue to work closely with local and state career centers and our community partners to recruit new individuals to join our team. We off er a variety of growth opportunities to employees and encourage members of the public to visit our website to learn more about our many open positions and beginning their career at the T.” The MBTA has gone to over 20 online and in-person career fairs across the region this fall and is updating the way it hires to make it easier and faster to start a T career, including Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) permit “events” at Registry of Motor Vehicle locations (CDL permits are encouraged in applying for bus operator positions), a revamp of the interview process, streamlining the application process, and more. The T has also launched an aggressive recruitment campaign, more than doubling the size of its Human Resources recruiting department since Labor Day 2021 with more anticipated to join soon. A Human Resources team was also recently created that is dedicated to vehicle operator hiring, especially MBTA bus operators. The MBTA offers competitive salaries, extensive healthcare benefi ts, free public transit, training programs, tuition assistance, employee assistance programs, and an emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion. MBTA employees also receive attractive retirement plans, paid vacation, holidays, and sick time, and fl exible spending accounts. Members of the public can view open positions online and visit the MBTA website for more information on insurance and other benefi ts. For full information visit mbta.com/careers, or connect with the T on Twitter @MBTA, Facebook /TheMBTA, or Instagram. Pilot human study shows novel treatment suppresses mutant ALS gene The Angel Fund for ALS Research provides major funding Law Offices of Terrence W. Kennedy 512 Broadway, Everett • Criminal Defense • Personal Injury • Medical Malpractice Tel: (617) 387-9809 Cell: (617) 308-8178 twkennedylaw@gmail.com (Wakefield, MA) – A clinical trial funded by The Angel Fund for ALS Re- search has shown signifi cant progress in suppressing expression of the most commonly mutated ALS gene, C9ORF72 (C9). The C9 gene mutation, a lengthy expansion of a repeated segment of six molecules of DNA, causes both familial ALS and frontotemporal dementia. The results of the human trial, initiated and led by Drs. Robert H. Brown and Jonathan Watts at UMass Chan Medical School, were published in Nature Medicine. T his is a major milestone and an exciting breakthrough in the efforts to fi nd a treatment for this neurodegenerative disease, according to Dr. Brown. The study was conducted on one patient after being sanctioned by the FDA. Dr. Brown and the study team hope to expand the study to as many as 10 patients in the coming months with further FDA approval. To silence the C9 gene, the research team developed antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) that target the two RNA transcripts of the gene that contain the toxic, expanded segment of nucleic acids. When the ASO was delivered into the spinal fl uid, the activity of the gene was substantially suppressed in the participant. The suppression was maintained by repeated doses of the ASO, which were well tolerated without safety concerns in this pilot study. According to Dr. Brown, while ASOs against this target region have previously been shown by investigators to attenuate expression of the C9 gene in neurons in cell culture and mouse models, the UMass-led trial was the fi rst to demonstrate this in a human. A trial of a comparable ASO is now also being conducted by Biogen, Inc, in Cambridge; results from that study have not yet been reported. “The Angel Fund for ALS Research has been committed to fi nding a treatment and a cure for ALS for nearly three decades,” The Angel Fund said. “This is a giant leap forward on the road to such a discovery. We are proud to fund this research and are excited with the promising results of this clinical trial.” Dr. Jonathan Watts commented, “The research team is excited and encouraged by these results and we look forward to expanding our trial to include more individuals with C9 ALS and frontotemporal dementia. We are grateful to The Angel Fund for ALS Research for their funding.” In addition to the lead role taken by Drs. Brown and Watts, key participants included Drs. Helene Tran and Michael Moazami, as well as an extensive clinical trials team. Beyond the major funding from the Angel Fund, support was also provided by the National Institutes of Health and other ALS organizations. A trusted family name combined with exceptional craftsmanship & professionalism. Call for a consultation & quote. 63 Years! • Vinyl Siding • Carpentry Work • Decks • Roofing • Replacement Windows • Free Estimates • Fully Licensed • Fully Insured

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 Page 9 Saugus Garden Club News Gerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law Is Your Estate in Order? Do you have an update Will, Health Care Proxy or Power of Attorney? If Not, Please Call for a Free Consultation. 14 Proctor Avenue, Revere (781) 284-5657 HONORING TOWN VETERANS: Members of the Saugus Garden Club at National Wreaths Across America Day last Saturday (Dec. 18) at Riverside Cemetery. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) Pilot human study shows novel treatment suppresses mutant ALS gene The Angel Fund for ALS Research provides major funding (Wakefield, MA) – A clinical trial funded by The Angel Fund for ALS Research has shown significant progress in suppressing expression of the most commonly mutated ALS gene, C9ORF72 (C9). The C9 gene mutation, a lengthy expansion of a repeated segment of six molecules of DNA, causes both familial ALS and frontotemporal dementia. The results of the human trial, initiated and led by Drs. Robert H. Brown and Jonathan Watts at UMass Chan Medical School, were published in Nature Medicine. T his is a major milestone and an exciting breakthrough in the efforts to find a treatment for this neurodegenerative disease, according to Dr. Brown. The study was conducted on one patient after being sanctioned by the FDA. Dr. Brown and the study team hope to expand the study to as many as 10 patients in the coming months with further FDA approval. To silence the C9 gene, the research team developed antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) that target the two RNA transcripts of the gene that contain the toxic, expanded segment of nucleic acids. When the ASO was delivered into the spinal fluid, the activity of the gene was substantially suppressed in the participant. The suppression was maintained by repeated doses of the ASO, which were well tolerated without safety concerns in this pilot study. According to Dr. Brown, while ASOs against this target region have previously been shown by investigators to attenuate expression of the C9 gene in neurons in cell culture and mouse models, the UMass-led trial was the first to demonstrate this in a human. A trial of a comparable ASO is now also being conducted by Biogen, Inc, in Cambridge; results from that study have not yet been reported. “The Angel Fund for ALS Research has been committed to finding a treatment and a cure for ALS for nearly three decades,” The Angel Fund said. “This is a giant leap forward on the road to such a discovery. We are proud to fund this research and are excited with the promising results of this clinical trial.” Dr. Jonathan Watts commented, “The research team is excited and encouraged by these results and we look forward to expanding our trial to include more individuals with C9 ALS and frontotemporal dementia. We are grateful to The Angel Fund for ALS Research for their funding.” In addition to the lead role taken by Drs. Brown and Watts, key participants included Drs. Helene Tran and Michael Moazami, as well as an extensive clinical trials team. Beyond the major funding from the Angel Fund, support was also provided by the National Institutes of Health and other ALS organizations.

Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 Sachems drop home opener to Peabody T By Greg Phipps he Saugus High School girls’ basketball team isn’t off to the start it was hoping for in 2021-22. The Sachems dropped their third game of the early season when they fell to Peabody in their home opener Wednesday night. It was the first regular-season game for the Saugus girls at the new school gymnasium. But the Sachems were up against a very good Peabody team and couldn’t come away with a win, as the visiting Tanners prevailed by a convincing 61-39 count. Ella Castle ended up as Saugus’s leading points-getter with 12 in the defeat. She was followed by Ashleen Escobar with eight points. The Sachems were hoping Saugus’ Fallon Millerick produced a career-high 14 points at Danvers last week and contributed 11 in Monday’s win at Winthrop. (Advocate photo by Greg Phipps) they could carry the momentum of Monday’s road victory at Winthrop into Wednesday’s home opener. But it wasn’t enough against the unbeaten Tanners, who improved to 4-0. The Sachems fell to 1-3. SACHEMS | SEE PAGE 15 A Letter to Saugus Thank you for making this year’s Toy Drive a success HELPING TO SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER: The Saugus Lions Club toy drive helpers. T he Saugus Lions hosted the Second Annual Roaring Toy Drive on Saturday, November 27th, from 10:00 am– 2:00 pm at the Saugus Senior Center at 466 Central St. Retired Capt. Bill O’Malley and members of the Saugus Fire Department collected the toys and delivered them to those families in need. We of the Saugus Lions Club and the Saugus Fire Department thank all of you that made a toy donation. We also (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate) want to thank the MEG Foundation for their donation helping the cause. Thanks to you, Christmas of 2021 is made better for struggling families. Together we made a difference and helped put some smiles on many faces. The Saugus Lions Club and the Saugus Fire Department (Editor’s Note: This letter and the courtesy photo were submitted by Anthony Speziale of the Saugus Lions Club.) LIKE US ON FACEBOOK ADVOCATE NEWSPAPER FACEBOOK.COM/ADVOCATE.NEWS.MA

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 Page 11 Sachems off to promising 3-0 start B By Greg Phipps efore the season began, Saugus’s second-year Saugus JV player Travis Goyetche drives to the basket in Wednesday’s 53-47 JV loss at Peabody. The varsity contest was postponed. (Advocate photo by Greg Phipps) boys’ basketball Head Coach Joe Bertrand talked about maintaining a positive attitude both on and off the court. That outlook has been on display thus far this season. With a home win over Winthrop on Monday, the Sachems improved to 3-0 on the young campaign. The three straight Ws to open the season represents one of the better and more promising starts for the Sachems in recent years. However, the momentum of that solid breakout suffered a bit of a detour when Wednesday’s scheduled game at Peabody was postponed, reportedly due to a COVID-19 protocol issue. The junior varsity (JV) squad did make the trip to Peabody and played its game. The Sachem JVs came up just short in a close 53-47 battle. In the case of the varsity, as of press time, Saugus was still set for a contest at Triton next Tuesday night. After opening the season with a win at Greater Lawrence Tech, the Sachems christened their new gymnasium last Friday night with an impressive 71-55 triumph over Danvers. Four players accounted for the majority of the offensive output, and the individual point totals were amazingly balanced among the foursome. Ryan Mabee was the top scorer with 18 points, followed by Jeury Barbosa with 15. Tyrone Manderson and Ben Tapia-Gately contributed 14 each. The quartet was responsible for 60 of the team’s 71 points. The Sachems kept it going by handing Winthrop a 60-55 setback on Monday at home. The scoring sheet was similar to the Danvers game. This time, three players – Manderson, Mabee and Barbosa – carried the offense, at least in terms of scoring. Manderson poured in 20 points and was aided by Barbosa’s 14 and Mabee’s 13. Just 13 Saugus points were produced by other players. In the wins over Danvers and Winthrop, Mabee, Manderson and Barbosa were responsible for 94 points combined. With Wednesday’s game being abruptly called off, Saugus hopes to be able to resume action as scheduled next Tuesday in order to preserve the positivity and energy created by the three-game win streak to kick off 2021-22. For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 781-233-4446 or Info@advocatenews.net

Page 12 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS By Mark E. Vogler Happy holidays, Saugus residents Best wishes to people of all faiths in town who are observing their religious holidays. For the folks who celebrate Christmas, enjoy your time with family and friends. And there’s plenty of opportunity to celebrate with your kids tonight if you have children. The town’s annual Santa Claus Christmas Eve Parade runs from 6 to 9 tonight. Check Santa’s parade posted in today’s paper. Also check out the children’s Christmas pageant that will start at 5 p.m. at St. John’s Episcopal Church. People from all faiths and congregations are welcome. All community children are welcome to participate in the pageant. And if you’re bored, dress up in some warm clothes and walk through the neighborhoods of Saugus, checking out those Christmas light displays. Whatever you do, be smart. Be safe. Wear your mask or face-covering if you are in a crowd or inside. If you are enjoying some beer, wine or other alcoholic beverages, be smart and get a designated driver. If you are by yourself and going to a party (which should be a concern with COVID-19), stick to two drinks and eat some food. It’s the third drink that usually gets you in trouble. And that can turn out to be costly, and even dangerous, to you and others. Best wishes for the holidays, Saugus. Stay safe. A Christmas story “Shout-Out” Prolific “Shout-Out” contributor Jeanie Bartolo sent us an email this week, offering to share “A heartwarming ‘Shout Out’ Christmas Story” “Every day, little Liam Walton walks to and from Kindergarten via Stone Street with his mother Wilma and me and we stop in front of a house so Liam can say hello to three inflatable Christmas statues that are on the front lawn,” Jeanie says. “Sky, Grinch and Sofie Coco! We also did this when the same homeowner had an inflatable turkey who Liam named Tom during Thanksgiving. Well, today as Liam and his mother were walking home from school there was a gift waiting for Liam from Sky, Grinch and Sofie Coco!!! He came straight to my house so I could see his gift,” she says. “His face was lit up like a Christmas Tree, he was so excited to receive a gift from his friends Sky, Grinch and Sofie Coco! I want to thank the homeowner for her kindness and let her know she not only brightened little Liam’s days but his mom’s and mine too! Such a wonderful thing to do for a little boy. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and may you and your family have a Merry Christmas and a healthy and Happy New Year!!” 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. A chance for children participation The Rev. John Beach of St. John’s Episcopal Church has offered a wonderful invitation to the children of Saugus: Come participate in the Christmas Eve pageant the church has planned for later today. Rev. Beach is encouraging the town’s children to come and participate in the reenacting of the Nativity of Jesus. In the spirit of Christmas, he has also invited all adults in the community “who enjoy (or would like to enjoy) a childlike heart” to come and watch this Christmas Eve pageant at 5 p.m. today (Friday, Dec. 24). For those kids who want to perform, the young actors will be gathering at the church at 3 p.m. for the distribution of costumes and a brief rehearsal. If you are interested, please contact The Rev. John Beach at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 8 Prospect St., Saugus. You can email him at revjbeach@gmail.com. ic class of breed themselves but nevertheless they have their height/weight standards. A Juliana pig is colorful & spotted no more than 65 pounds usually being 20-40 lbs. “Mushroom was a wonderful choice for the Saugus Christmas Tree Lights petting zoo! “Jeannie Meredith, an Administrative assistant of the Saugus Town Hall oversaw and encouraged others to participate at the petting zoo and Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies. She was seen holding the animals and helping the Children to feel more secure in doing the same! “Jeannie graduated from Saugus High School and holds her parents as her Inspiration. “Jeannie has been an active volunteer in the community, and especially at her church, where she has been a Education Coordinator at St. Margaret’s/Blessed Sacrament Church. She has also served as Eucharistic Minister and as a Member of Society of St. Vincent DePaul. “Jeannie helps make Families with children exGUESS WHO GOT SKETCHED! In this week’s edition, we continue our weekly feature where a local artist sketches people, places and things in Saugus. Got an idea who was sketched this week? If you do, please email me at mvoge@comcast.net or leave a phone message at 978-683-7773. Anyone who between now and Tuesday at noon correctly identifies the Saugonian being sketched qualifies to have their name put in a green Boston Red Sox hat with a chance to be selected as the winner of a $10 gift certificate, compliments of Dunkin’ at the 1204 Broadway, Saugus, location on Route 1 North. But you have to enter to win! Look for the winner and identification in next week’s “The Sounds of Saugus.” Please leave your mailing address in case you are a winner. (Courtesy illustration to The Saugus Advocate by a Saugonian who goes by the name of “The Sketch Artist”) Or call him at the church office phone: 781-233-1242. We have a winner! Congratulations to Andrew Whitcomb for making the right identification in last week’s “Guess Who got Sketched!” contest and then being the one selected from among several readers whose names were entered into the green Boston Red Sox cap. Andrew was actually the first of many people to contact The Saugus Advocate with the right answer. And attached to the email he sent with that answer was also a photo of him with Jeannie Meredith, who was holding Mushroom, the Juliana potbellied pig, at the petting zoo of the town’s (Dec. 3) Christmas Tree Lighting and Festivities event. There was no doubt about it, as Andrew wrote in his email: “That is Jeannie Meredith holding the pig in this week’s issue. She is one of the greatest people Saugus has ever seen and she has done more for the kids than most people will ever realize. I have seen it first hand, though she doesn’t like credit. Hope all is well. Merry Christmas.” These dynamics were actually a first in our weekly “Guess Who Got Sketched Contest.” It marked the first time that a winner sent in a photo that matched up with the person being sketched. Andrew also contributed a persuasive “Shout-Out” along with guessing the right answer. In any event, here’s the correct answer, offered by the person who goes by the name of The Sketch Artist: “Last Week’s Sketch is of Jeannie Meredith holding a blanket wrapped Mushroom! Mushroom is a Juliana pot bellied pig. Pigs are very sociable, affectionate and love being held and petted. They are known for being more intelligent and trainable than many breeds of dogs. Juliana pigs are not really a scientifperience a fuller Merrier Christmas time volunteering with toy collections. She’s a member of Sachem Friends and one of the Specially ‘hand picked’ elves who assisted Kevin Andrews in his toy drive at the MEG Building. “Decked out in elves’ hats Jeannie & Kevin Andrews were on page 3 of ‘Saugus Advocate’ Friday Dec. 10th . They spent their Tuesdays 6:00-8:00 till Dec. 21, at the M.E.G. receiving toy donations for families. Jeannie’s usually found in the center of Saugus Town Events giving her all with enthusiasm! “With a true Mother’s heart, Jeannie loves children and it shows with all the concern about their safety and well-being. “She truly ensures that all the layers of Maslow’s chart of human basic needs are met with children. Jeannie holds a Leadership Position for Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus (HS2). This is a Non-Profit school Children’s meal program providing snacks & nutrition for weekends & school vacations. “As a former Chair of the Saugus School Committee, she strived to enrich Children’s lives and protect their welfare. She also served on the Saugus Public School’s Anti-Vaping Committee and anti-drug. “She has introduced ideas as therapy dogs in Saugus Schools, and is fighting for better tech & tools to assist Children in receiving greater Education. She Supports the G.O.A.L.S. Program. The Goals program designed by 2014 Saugus Graduate Jonathan McTague’s is abbreviated for Gaining Opportunity, Access, Leadership, Success. “She has been quoted in various media with such positive statements as “if you can save one child you have done your job.’ “She has been on committees such as Saugus High School Building Committee, and many various volunteer projects. Jeannie Meredith and Julie Cicolini were voted 2 of Essex Media Group Person’s of the Year 2020! “Thank you For all you do for Saugus! You shine so brightly for our children! “Yours Truly, “The Sketch Artist” Breakheart’s “First Day Hike” So, have you resolved to lose some weight for the new year and engage in a more healthy life? If so, start off the New Year with an invigorating “First Day Hike” and make a resolution to burn off those extra holiday calories. The state Department of Conservation & Recreation and the Friends of Breakheart Reservation are cosponsoring “Breakheart Reservation First Day Hike” again. A flier issued recently by both groups notes “We will have two guided hikes through the paved loops of Breakheart. “Be prepared for cold weather – dress in layers and wear winter boots. Bring your friends and family and THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | SEE PAGE 13

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 Page 13 A letter to the DEP commissioner Precinct 10 Town Meeting Members call on DEP to require “open and transparent” closure of ash landfill (Editor’s Note: The five Saugus Town Meeting members for Precinct 10 recently wrote the following letter to state Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Martin Suuberg and requested that it be published as a letter-to-the-editor, as it reflects their opinion on a matter of public policy that will be decided by MassDEP and the Saugus Board of Health.) Dear Commissioner Suuberg, We, the five representative Town Meeting Members for Precinct 10 In Saugus, wish to go on record against permitting any vertical or lateral expansion of the ash landfill operated by WIN (formerly Wheelabrator) of Saugus. We would further urge the DEP to immediately require WIN/Wheelabrator to commence an open and transparent closure process for this landfill which will reportedly reach capacity in 2024. As you indicated in your November 16th correspondence to Representative Turco, MassDEP is barred from issuing a favorable Determination of Site Suitability for any expansion of the Landfill and therefore any expansion cannot go before the Town of Saugus Board of Health for a site assignment. Local Boards of Health are only required to hold a Site Assignment hearing or issue a Site Assignment to applicants if they first receive a favorable Determination of Site Suitability. Alongside the legal issues of expansion, there are numerous environmental and health issues as well. WIN/ Wheelabrator’s ash landfill is located within a one-mile radius of Environmental Justice communities in Saugus, and THE SOUNDS OF SAUGUS | FROM PAGE 12 afterwards warm up with a cup of hot chocolate by the fire pit outside.” Jot this down on your calendar folks: Jan. 1, 2022. Hike starts at 10 a.m. Meet outside the Visitors’ Center of Breakheart Reservation (177 Forest St. in Saugus). The center will remain open until noon. For more information, call 781-233-0834. No 2022 Historical Society calendars It’s been a couple of years since Saugus native George Brown organized the production of those nice, large calendars for the Saugus Historical Society. George had been in charge of the calendar project for close to two decades. There was no calendar last year. And George and his wife have recently moved to Danvers. Not sure why the calendar project stopped, as it was a great project. And I enjoyed the large size and the fascinating old photos and postcards that were showcased. I love those calendars – and I can’t wait til the society starts producing them again. “I have been getting questions about whether they will be available this year, and unfortunately the answer is no, not this Year,” says Saugus Historical Society President Laura Eisener. “People have been asking about the Saugus Calendars usually produced by the Saugus Historical Society. While we do enjoy putting them together and are considering resuming them in 2023, they do take many months to put together and we were not able to determine earlier in the season whether we would have sufficient sponsors, time to prepare them, and places (like the library, senior center, and town hall offices) to distribute them,” Laura said. “We are also still unpacking and getting organized from the major construction that took place in 2019 and 2020. While we have filled one of the vacant board positions, we still have an opening if anyone has an interest in local history and a desire to contribute to the community,” she said. The society’s phone is still not functioning so if you are interested in serving on the board or have other questions about the historical society, please call Laura Eisener on her home phone at 781-231-5988. COVID-19 halts Friday breakfasts its impacts extend well beyond Saugus to neighboring Environmental Justice communities in Revere and Lynn. For decades, these communities, and in particular East Saugus, have been burdened by pollution and nitrogen oxides being emitted by WIN/Wheelabrator. As we are sure you are aware Saugus has hosted this facility since 1974. Saugus, and in particular East Saugus, has done more than its share for the region’s solid waste. For these reasons, we stand in support against permitting a vertical expansion at WIN/ Wheelabrator. You should also know that the location of this ash landfill has a zoning overlay that allows for construction of a solar farm. This use would be far more beneficial to the Commonwealth and its citizens. Sincerely, Martin Costello, Peter Delios, Peter Manoogian, Darren Ring and Carla Scuzzarella Saugus Public Library to host Dr. Rachel May J oin us on Zoom on Tuesday, January 11, 2022, at 7 p.m. when the Saugus Public Library, in collaboration with several other area libraries, welcomes Dr. Rachel May for a presentation of her book “An American Quilt: Unfolding a Story of Family and Slavery.” After the author discovered an unfinished 1830s quilt, she investigated the history of the women who created it and the overlooked history of Northern slavery. May’s book explores the far reach of slavery, from New England to the Caribbean, the role it played in the growth of mercantile America and the bonds between the agrarian South and the industrial North in the antebellum era. This is a free Zoom program but registration is required. Once you register, you will receive a link to the Zoom presentation. May is also the author of “Quilting with a Modern Concerns about COVID-19 have led to a temporary shutdown of the Friday morning breakfasts at the Saugus American Legion Cpl Scott J. Procopio Post 210 Legion Hall, which is located at 44 Taylor St. Last week, we received the following email from Debra Dion Faust, Building Manager of American Legion Post 210: “Be aware that, due to a loss of one of our members to Covid (He caught it at a family wedding, not at the Legion itself.) we shut down the breakfast the Friday before Thanksgiving…concerns about the new Omicron variant, the fact that the rather unseasonably warm weather actually works against us, and the fact that the success of the breakfast means that the numbers who come make it difficult to ‘socially distance,’ we took a poll of those breakfast-goers who have given us their email addresses to make notifications possible, and have made the decision to shut down the breakfast for the month of December. “We plan to re-open on Friday, January 7. (We hope by that time to have had a truly hard freeze to help short-circuit transmission fears.) Thanks for your support. Have a good holiday season and a Happy New Year.” We will keep you posted on any developments affecting the Friday breakfasts at Legion Hall. Compost/Recycling Drop-Off site closing The Town of Saugus Compost/Recycling Drop-Off site closed for the winter season on Dec. 11. However, the site will reopen from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the third Saturday of the month in January, February, and March, weather permitting. Please contact Solid Waste/Recycling Coordinator Lorna Cerbone at 781-231-4036 with any questions. Want to be a Knight? The Knights of Columbus is looking for new members to join. If interested in becoming a member of this local organization, please call 781-233-9858. Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus program (Editor’s Note: The following info is from an announcement submitted by Julie Cicolini, a member of the Board of Directors for Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus, providing information about the program.) Who we are: Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus (HS2) is a nonprofit group of volunteers that are helping to offset food insecurity in households. HS2 proSlant,” a 2014 Library Journal and Amazon.com Best Book of the Year. She is an assistant professor at Northern Michigan University. This program is made possible by the collaboration of the public libraries in Newburyport, Billerica, Portsmouth, Boxford, Chelmsford and Saugus and the Langley-Adams Library in Groveland, Peabody Institute Library in Danvers and Bigelow Free Public Library in Clinton. vides students/families that enroll in the program a supply of nutritious food for when school lunches and breakfasts are unavailable to them on weekends. How HS2 can help you: HS2 bags are distributed at school on Fridays to take home. Bags include such items as peanut butter, jelly, a loaf of bread, canned meals/soups/tuna/vegetables, pasta/sauce, fruit cups, cereal, oatmeal, goldfish, pretzels and granola bars. To sign up go here to complete an online form: https://forms.gle/gmMGguycSHBdziuE9. Want to partner with us: HS2 relies on donations to create take-home bags for a weekend full of meals. All food is provided to children free of charge. It is our hope these resources will support the health, behavior and achievement of every student who participates. We would love to partner with organizations, youth groups, PTOs, businesses and individuals to assist in feeding students of Saugus. To learn more about how you can partner with us, visit the Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus Facebook page or email us at HS2Saugus@gmail.com. Checks can also be sent directly to: Salem Five c/o Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus, 855-5 Broadway, Saugus, MA 01906. Online donations can also be made at https://givebutter.com/HealthySaugus. Let’s hear it! Got an idea, passing thought or gripe you would like to share with The Saugus Advocate? I’m always interested in your feedback. It’s been over five and a half years since I began work at The Saugus Advocate. I’m always interested in hearing readers’ suggestions for possible stories or good candidates for “The Advocate Asks” interview of the week. Feel free to email me at mvoge@comcast.net. Do you have some interesting views on an issue that you want to express to the community? Submit your idea. If I like it, we can meet for a 15- to 20-minute interview over a hot drink at a local coffee shop. And I’ll buy the coffee or tea. Or, if you prefer to continue practicing social distancing and be interviewed from the safety of your home on the phone or via email, I will provide that option to you as the nation recovers from the Coronavirus crisis. If it’s a nice day, my preferred site for a coffee and interview would be the picnic area of the Saugus Iron Works.

Page 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 Sweet Dreams By Gini Pariseau I t was an especially dark night. The moon was only showing a sliver of itself. It looked like it had been dipped in chocolate. A hint of cloud that looked like a scoop of marshmallow fluff could be seen beside the sliver of moon. It was a night for sweet dreams. Some girls and boys knew what time of year it was by the change in the weather. Some knew by the amount of shopping their parents suddenly did. Others knew by the name of the month on the calendar…December! It was the time of year to be especially good. It was a night to catch a sweet dream. Sweet dreams love an especially dark night. They fly around out there by the dozens, bumping into each other, trying to find a lovely little sleeping child to share their magic. It is a very difficult and tedious task to make the perfect match. When morning comes, all sweet dreams must be gone. All are, hopefully, in the hearts and minds of children somewhere in this world. Babies in cribs, boys and girls in their beds, sleeping bags, ~ OP-ED ~ Tips on reducing waste during the holidays A duce waste over the holidays. With thanks to the EPA, here are some ideas: zGive treasure — a favorite book, plant start, or antique. Check estate sales, flea markets, and resale shops for unique finds. zChoose recycled or sustainably sourced materials. Shop local to support area shops, makers, and artisans while reducing shipping costs and impacts. zGive “anti-matter” — event tickets, museum memberships, gift certificates, or even your time and talents. zReuse maps, comics, newsprint, kid art, or posters as gift wrap. Wrap gifts in recycled paper or a reusable bag. Or, skip the gift wrap, hide the gifts, and leave clues or trails for kids to follow. zGive rechargeable batteries with electronics. zConsider a potted tree that can be replanted, or a red cedar slated for removal during habitat/farm maintenance. zAll food-soiled paper products are commercially compostable, unless plastic- or foil-coated. zReuse packing and shipping materials. Save ribbons, bows, boxes, bags, and décor for the next holiday. zReplant, mulch, or compost your live tree. Compost food scraps. We can make a difference. If every family reused just two feet of holiday ribbon, the 38,000 miles of ribbon saved could tie a bow around the entire planet, according to Stanford University. If every American family wrapped just three presents in re-used materials, it would save enough paper to cover 45,000 football fields. If we each sent one fewer greeting s anyone who has spent time cleaning up wrapping paper or the remnants of a holiday meal knows, this is the season of celebration, giving … and waste. In fact, Americans throw away 25 percent more trash during the Thanksgiving to New Year's holiday period than any other time of year. The extra waste amounts to 25 million tons of garbage, or about 1 million extra tons per week, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). But, with a little creativity and planning, all of us can recard, we’d save 50,000 cubic yards of paper. Whether it be during the holidays or any other time of year, as always, we will be on the job, collecting and safely disposing of whatever cannot be recycled and converting it into clean, renewable energy to power local communities. At WIN Waste Innovations, supporting the needs of the communities we serve is one of many ways we bring our Performance for the Planet vision to life. From all of us at WIN Waste Innovations, we wish you a happy and sustainable holiday season. Saugus Health Dept. announces distribution of at-home COVID-19 tests (Editor’s Note: The following info is from a press release issued this week by The Town of Saugus.) T he Town of Saugus and the Saugus Health Department announced the receipt of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’s allocation of at-home COVID-19 test kits. These kits will serve as a valuable additional tool in the fight against the spread of COVID-19 and bringing an end to the ongoing pandemic. These kits will be initially allocated to vulnerable populations – including seniors, severely immunocompromised residents and those in low-income housing – as well as places of worship and local food banks. It is hoped that the general public understands the need to allocate these resources to those with the greatest need first and also understands the very limited quantity that was given to the Town of Saugus by the Commonwealth based on income demographics. The Town of Saugus continues to encourage Saugus residents to continue to utilize programs – including the free Stop the Spread drive-through testing site at the Square One Mall, 1204 Broadway from 2-7 p.m., Monday through Saturday – for all testing needs. According to the Commonwealth, this program has been extended until March 31, 2022. The Stop the Spread testing site allows the Commonwealth and local communities to track and trace new positive cases. In addition, this also allows communities to reach out to help those families that are in need. For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 781-233-4446 or Info@advocatenews.net After the first allocations are concluded, the Saugus Board of Health will make the remainder of tests available to the general public on a first come, first served basis while the Board’s limited supply lasts. All distribution will require registration with the Health Department in order to receive test kits. Please call 781-231-4117 to register to receive test kits (max one kit per household). “While, we at the Town of Saugus understand that the supply cannot meet the demand for these products, especially during the holiday season, we hope that the residents of Saugus will understand that the Town and the Health Department are doing everything in their power to provide a safe and healthy community as we continue to navigate the pandemic. Thank you. “For more information, please contact Saugus Director of Public Health John R. Fralick III at 781-231-4120 or 781-2314177. Or you can email him at jfralick@saugus-ma.gov.” The COVID-19 Update Town reports 203 newly confirmed cases over the past week By Mark E. Vogler A s Saugus residents prepared for the holiday weekend celebration, town and state health officials were bracing themselves for the anticipated surge in newly confirmed COVID-19 cases. Over a seven-day period through yesterday (Thursday, Dec. 23), Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree reported that the state Department of Public Health had notified the town of 203 new cases and one additional death. That brings the total of COVID-19 cases and deaths to 5,986 and 86, respectively, since March of last year when the state Department of Public Health began keeping statistics on how the global pandemic is affecting cities and towns across Massachusetts. “Our hearts and prayers go out to those families affected by this health pandemic,” Crabtree said. Saugus continues to see a significant spike in the number of newly confirmed COVID-19 cases, prompting health officials to call on residents to exercise caution when they are in a crowd – either inside buildings or outside. Crabtree last week (Thursday, Dec. 16) reported there were 182 new cases and one additional death over the last seven days. The town has reported 717 new COVID-19 cases since Nov. 22. tents and parent’s arms – all were sound asleep and hoping for a sweet dream. Now, it was getting close to morning and getting close to December 25. There was one dream still out there this night. It was floating around frantically trying to find some child who would cherish the magic of dreaming and would want what this sweet dream had to offer. It was December and children are very particular about their sweet dreams. But, that was the hard part… what this sweet dream had to offer. It wasn’t sweet like candy or fun like doing a puzzle or riding a bike. It was plain and simple and shared in a minute. As the sun came up and the moon melted into day, somewhere in this world a little child awoke from the night and remembered the sweet dream that was shared and whispered in their ear…you are loved! How sweet it is!

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 Page 15 SAUGUS GARDENS IN THE WINTER Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable By Laura Eisener T he last full moon of 2021, known as the snow moon, occurred this past weekend, and Tuesday was the shortest day of the year. Already the days are lengthening, and we will soon be aware of brighter mornings and longer afternoons. A few flowers are still trying to keep blooming outdoors. Ice is forming on the edges of ponds, and the temptation to snuggle up to a cozy fireplace is strong. Tonya Chadwick’s decorations near Saugus Center went up in late November, but strong winds damaged two of them beyond repair. When she went shopping to replace them, she found many items sold out as the holiday got closer, but she persevered and managed to find some that were just right to liven up the scene. One of the decorations that did survive the strong winds is a gray cat, which is especially significant to her because she owns an actual gray cat. The life-size nativity scene on the front lawn of Dale Palma and his family is one of the most impressive in town. It was handed down from a family friend and is over 50 years old. In addition to Mary, Joseph and Jesus, there are the three kings — including one riding a camel – an angel, sheep, shepherds and a donkey. Dale says when he was growing up in Boston the family used to drive to Saugus – especially the Lynn Fells Parkway neighborhood – to see the lights. When he was getting ready to move here three years ago he quipped, “Now all I need to do is get a life-sized nativity scene for my front yard.” One of his friends said, “Hold that thought! I have one – just come and get it!” So Dale drove his truck up to Malden to bring them home, and the figures attracted quite a bit of attention as they rode through Melrose and Saugus. Friends and family members help him put the figures up every year, and his uncle assists with refurbishing the figures to keep the colors bright. Other vintage decorations in the yard include lighted angels at the posts which were once part of North End feast signs. In Nordic countries (Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Iceland and the Faroe Islands), birds are considered symbols of good luck, and it is traditional to feed the birds on Christmas Day. It is believed that this will ensure good luck in the coming year. One version of the Christmas bird tradition is to spread birdseed on the doorstep of the home as a sort of invitation for the birds to share in the family feast. Another common custom is to tie sheaves Northeast Metro Tech to reopen Breakheart Inn W AKEFIELD – Superintendent David DiBarHOLIDAY FRIENDS: A snowman tree, teddy bear, gingerbread man, penguin, cat and Santa himself on the lawn of Tonya Chadwick wish everyone a Merry Christmas. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) ri of Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational High School (Northeast Metro Tech) and Culinary Program Head Liz Beals recently announced that the James Wallace Breakheart Inn will reopen to the public for sit-down meal service. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted the closure of the James Wallace Breakheart Inn – Northeast Metro Tech’s inschool restaurant – in 2020, but the restaurant will reopen to the public on Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022. Students in the Culinary Program prepare all meals served at the Breakheart Inn from scratch each day, and serve them as well, as part of the Culinary Program curriculum. Starting on Jan. 5, the 52HOLY NIGHT: The life-size nativity scene at the Palma family home near Forest Street rode here several years ago in a pickup truck. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) of wheat or barley or other grains together like a bouquet and mount them on a pole near the house where birds can find them. Sometimes the stalks are braided together in ornamental patterns, especially heart shapes – these fancier versions may be placed over doorways or gates. In Sweden, the last sheaves of grain that are harvested are given as an offering to the birds. This usually occurs earlier in the fall, but it signals the end of the growing season and the beginning of winter. They can also be used as decorations indoors, but there the birds are cheated out of enjoying them! In parts of Finland, customs include waiting until you see the birds enjoying their Christmas feast before the human family can sit down to their Christmas dinner! For some, the customs are extended to giving special treats to domestic birds, such as chickens. The formal term for these customs is “The Remembrance of the Birds.” Popular motifs for Christmas cards and winter postcards include children, Santa Claus, or gnomes spreading bags of birdseed in the woods, or carrying armloads of wheat, with birds flying overhead or gathering on the snowy ground to eat the seeds. Sometimes the benefactors are depicted decorating a small evergreen in the forest, with birds and other wildlife looking on in admiration. Stylized figures of birds are popular motifs on tree ornaments, tableware and household decorations. It seems appropriate at seat restaurant will be open Tuesday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Reservations can be made by phone on the day of service. To make a reservation, call 781-2460810 ext. 1114. Guests wishing to enjoy a meal at Breakheart Inn will need to wear a mask to enter the building, at the main entrance to check in and to enter the restaurant. Masks may be removed when guests have been seated and must be put back on when getting up from the table. As the restaurant reopens, Chef James Nolan will join the team in the back of the house as a new chef instructor. Nolan is a graduate of The Culinary Institute of America and brings 29 years of teaching experience and more than 35 years of professional cooking experience to the Culinary Program. Nolan is energetic, positive and looking forward to bringing new ideas and new skills to the students. “I’m excited that our students will once again have the hands-on learning opportunities that the James Wallace Breakheart Inn provides when it is fully operational,” said DiBarri. “We will have ample safety measures in place to maintain social distance and safety amid the pandemic, and we invite the community to stop by and see what our students are cooking.” THIS WEEK ON SAUGUS TV Sunday, Dec. 26 at 9 to 11 p.m. on Channel 8 – “Sunday Night Stooges” (The Three Stooges). Monday, Dec. 27 all day on Channel 8 – “Movie Monday” (classic movies). Tuesday, Dec. 28 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 22 – Boys Basketball vs. Winthrop from Dec. 20. Wednesday, Dec. 29 at A SAUGUS CHRISTMAS: The snow moon shone over the town’s decorated tree on Sunday evening. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate by Laura Eisener) this season to appreciate the other living creatures who, like us, must overcome the challenges of cold weather until spring brings warm temperatures and abundant flowers once again. Editor’s Note: Laura Eisener is a landscape design consultant who helps homeowners with landscape design, plant selection and placement of trees and shrubs, as well as perennials. She is a member of the Saugus Garden Club and offered to write a series of articles about “what’s blooming in town” shortly after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. She was inspired after seeing so many people taking up walking. 8:30 p.m. on Channel 22 – Girls Basketball vs. Peabody from Dec. 22. Thursday, Dec. 30 at 8:30 SACHEMS | FROM PAGE 10 They lost a 44-34 decision at Danvers last Friday before turning the tide with a strong 58-44 win against Winthrop on Monday. After the victory, Head Coach Mark Schruender told the press it was great to “check off that first win” of the season, adding that it was a big boost for his team. As Schruender had predicted prior to the season, the Sachems so far seem to have a different leading scorer every game. Against Winthrop, Peyton DiBiasio, who was reportp.m. on Channel 22 – Wrestling vs. Lynnfield from Dec. 23. Friday, Dec. 31 at 8:30 p.m. on Channel 22 – SHS Color Day 2021. Saturday, Jan. 1, 2022, at 1:30 p.m. on Channel 22 – SHS Winter Concert. Saugus TV can be seen on Comcast Channels 8, 9 & 22. For complete schedules, please visit www.saugustv. org. ***programming may be subject to change without notice*** edly celebrating her birthday, did the honors by pouring in 17 points, a career high. Also finishing in double figures were Ashley Moore with 12 points and Fallon Millerick with 11. Schruender also cited Ashley Aldred, Jessica Bremberg and Cassie Israelson for their strong efforts on both sides of the ball. Millerick led the way with a career-high 14 points in the loss at Danvers. Castle finished with six points and DiBiasio five for Saugus, which will try to get back in the win column when it hosts Medford on Tuesday afternoon (scheduled 12:30 start).

Page 16 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 SHS Sachems Remain Undefeated Beating Pentucket Regional at Valley Forum Rink in Malden Wednesday night the Saugus High School Sachems continued their winning ways, defeating Pentucket Regional, xx-xx at the Valley Forum Rink in Malden. The win put the Sachems at 2-0, with the next game on Friday, December 24, at 11.10AM vs. Essex Tech at the Essex Sports Complex. Chris Regnetta gets a shot at the Pentucket net early in the first period. Sachem Goalie Matt Smith turns away a shot. Captain Massimino Ventre puts one in the net for the Sachems, making it 1-0. Sachem Hockey Head Coach Jeff Natalucci and goalie coach Jeff Mitchell on the Saugus bench. Jason Monahan evades getting tripped to get a shot on net for the SHS Sachems. Captain Massimino Ventre closes in for a shot on net, looking for his second goal in as many periods. Ryan Jones digs in to take the face-off.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 Page 17 Saugus Sachems boys’ basketball team defeats Winthrop Vikings, 60-55 Ben Tapia-Gately brings the ball into play. Captain Tyrone Manderson battles for possession under the basket. Head Cheering Coach Courtney Tuck and Asst. Coach Hannah Phelan (top row) are shown with the Saugus Varsity Cheerleaders – with Christmas headbands and white pom-poms – ready for the game against the Winthrop High School Vikings at home last Monday night. Captain Ryan Mabee looks to make a play for the Sachems. Mabee was a big part in the win against the Vikings on Monday evening. Mark MacEachern keeps the Vikings from a score with tough defense. Head Coach Joe Bertrand calls the plays from the sidelines. Captain Tyrone Manderson did not find it easy under the basket – double and triple teamed all night. Ryan Anderson made a layup for the Sachems, who beat the WHS Vikings, 60-55, at home. Jeury Barbosa tries to keep the ball in play for the Saugus Sachems. Captain Ryan Mabee – triple covered – managed to get two more Sachem points.

Page 18 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 SUSPICIOUS | FROM PAGE 1 Saturday night when she was reportedly out on a date with Maiben. He was arraigned yesterday in Lynn District Court on charges of Larceny over $1,200, Tampering with Evidence and Obstruction arising from the investigation into the death of Sherell Pringle of Woburn. “We have said foul play is suspected,” Essex District Attorney’s Office Director of Communications Carrie Kimball told The Saugus Advocate yesterday. Yet, at press time yesterday, no murder charges had been fi led as area police and state detectives assigned to the Essex County District Attorney’s Offi ce continued to investigate the circumstances surrounding Pringle’s death. State police said they located her body in a marsh area in the vicinity of 63 Salem Turnpike along the northbound side of Route 107. CHRISTMAS | FROM PAGE 3 and a Happy Holiday season. I hope everyone has a happy and healthy 2022! Thank you. Selectman Jeff rey Cicolini Obviously there are many pressing issues for our town, most of which are at the forefront and are being addressed as priority items. The one item I would like to focus my attention on, once the school buildings are turned over to the town, is to have the dog park committee begin to meet, identify a location for a dog park and begin the process of exploring grants that are available etc. This has been long discussed. However, with COVID, many items were put on the back burner. 2022 will be the year we get the ball rolling. LAST | FROM PAGE 4 with gold ribbon to his Dad, who read the tag and opened the box. Inside was a wonderful assortment of jelly candies. Everyone sampled a diff erent flavor and commented how good their choice was. Allison came up next with her hands behind her back. In one sweeping action she presented her gift and held it in front of her. It was a big card that had a Christmas tree on the front with Santa and his reindeer going over the top of it. At the bottom, Allison had printed “Mom and Dad” with a diff erent color for each letter. Allison’s mom reached for the S y Senior How Older Drivers Can Sa e a Sherell Pringle, 40, of Woburn – “foul play suspected in her death” (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate). Meanwhile, Angjeliki Hodaj, 33, of Saugus, remained in jail, being held without bail since being charged last Friday (Dec. 17) with murder. Police arrested her for the Dec. 11 killing of Michael Norton in his home at 44 Collins Ave. Police and the Thank you and happy holidays! Selectman Corinne Riley One gift that I want to give the town as a Selectman is to continue working toward a vibrant, Cliftondale Square that would be looked at as a modern, thriving area. The other is to update the Capital Improvement Plan along with the Master Plan to follow through with the 3rd fi re station that the people in the west side have needed for too long. It’s time to get it done. Covid is still in the forefront for all of us, but we must work diligently to make up for time lost during the pandemic. I wish more than anything, I could give the gift of Covid being a nonentity in everyone’s life and to go back to living our lives as it was pre-Covid. It has gotten better but I wish it was further along than it is. I know it will concard, and both parents leaned together as they read the inside and commented on the pictures. Allison’s dad sat the card on the mantle and suggested everyone sample another round of jelly candies. He then turned the room lights down so they could appreciate the glow from the candle better. The card Allison had made for her parents faded out of sight on the mantle as the candlelight illuminated the coff ee table and the candy box. Allison began to feel her gift didn’t match up to her brothers’. The card had only provided momentary excitement as it was opened. Already it had faded Michael Norton, 26, of Saugus – murdered in his Essex Landing apartment on Dec. 11 (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate). District Attorney’s Offi ce have released few details of that homicide. “No one else is charged at this time, but [the case is] still under investigation,” Kimball said. tinue to improve, but I wish I had the means to end it now. The effort that has been taken by family and friends to keep each other safe by testing, wearing masks, etc. has helped in having more normalcy in the holiday season than a year ago. And, that is great. Merry Christmas, happy holidays, and I wish everyone a healthy, happy, peaceful 2022. Selectman Mike Serino What I would like to give the Town in the coming year is to continue to work with the Town Manager and my fellow Selectmen in helping guide our residents and our employees through this highly contagious new Covid crisis. I want to wish all Saugonians a Merry Christmas and a happy holiday season, along with a safe and healthy New Year. God Bless. in comparison to her brothers’ gifts. She passed on the next round of jelly candy and expressed her desire to go to bed so Santa Claus could come. She went to sleep dreaming of a magic moment when her parents would like and enjoy her present the best. The next morning she came down the stairs to the living room, and while there were so many presents under the tree from Santa, the fi rst thing she noticed was the coff ee table. The candle had burned itself away and the box that contained the jelly candy was empty. But there, sitting high and proud on the mantle, was her card. Dear Savvy Senior, Can you provide any tips to help seniors reduce their auto insurance premiums? I just got hit with a 15 percent increase on my car insurance and am looking for ways to save. Fixed Income Frank Dear Frank, Unfortunately, auto insurance rates went up signifi cantly over the past year as the pandemic eased and more Americans got back on the roads. But there are plenty of ways to cut your premium. To fi nd out what discounts may be available to you, contact your auto insurer and inquire about these options, and any others that may benefi t you. Low mileage discount: Most insurers off er discounts to customers who drive limited miles each year, which is usually benefi cial to retirees who drive less because they don’t commute to work every day. These discounts usually kick in when your annual mileage drops below 7,000 or 7,500, which is signifi cantly less than the typical 12,000 miles most Americans drive a year. Drivers Ed discount: Many states require insurance companies to off er defensive driving discounts – between fi ve and 15 percent – to drivers who take a refresher course to brush up on their safety skills. These courses, off ered by AAA (aaadriver.online/register/roadwise) and AARP (aarpdriversafety.org), cost $20 to $30 and can be taken online. Monitored driving discount: Many insurance providers off er discounts based on how and when you use your car. To get this, the insurer would provide a small monitoring device that you would place in your car to track things like your acceleration, braking habits, driving speeds, phone use and when you drive. Drivers are rewarded between 10 and 50 percent for safe driving and for not driving late at night. In addition, many insurance providers also off er discounts to drivers who do not have any violations or accidents for three or more years. Membership discounts: Organizations that you belong to can also lower your insurance premium. Insurers offer discounts through professional BY JIM MILLER Old D i Senio nior nir ior C Save on Auto Insurance associations, workers’ unions, large employers or membership organizations such as AAA, the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association, AARP, etc. You could even qualify for savings based on the college you attended or the fraternity or sorority you belonged to decades ago. Bundle policies: If your auto policy is issued by a diff erent company from the one insuring your life or home, call each insurer and ask if bundling the policies would be cheaper. Improve your credit: You may be able to lower your car insurance premium by paying your bills on time and reducing the amount of debt you carry. Insurers look at how their customers manage credit to get an idea of risk and to price policies. Better rates are given to those with good credit scores, typically 700 or above. Increase your deductible: While it’s not right for everyone, paying a higher deductible could save you big on premiums. For example, raising your deductible from $200 to $500 could reduce the cost of your collision and comprehensive coverage by 15 to 30 percent. Going to a $1,000 deductible could save you 40 percent or more. Consider your car model: If you’re shopping for a new vehicle, call for an insurance quote before you decide what to buy. Some vehicles are safer and cost less to repair than others. Insurance companies collect data about each make and model and use it to determine how much to charge customers. Comparison shop: To fi nd out if your current premium is competitive with what other insurers charge, or to help you look for a different provider you should comparison shop. Online brokerages such as CarInsurance.com, TheZebra. com and QuoteWizard.com let you plug in basic details – such as your age and your car’s make, model and year – to compare rates from insurance companies. 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.

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 Page 19 Beacon Hill Roll Call By Bob Katzen GET A FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO MASSTERLIST– Join more than 22,000 people, from movers and shakers to political junkies and interested citizens, who start their weekday morning with MASSterList—the popular newsletter that chronicles news and informed analysis about what’s going on up on Beacon Hill, in Massachusetts politics, policy, media and influence. The stories are drawn from major news organizations as well as specialized publications selected by widely acclaimed and highly experienced writers Chris Van Buskirk and Keith Regan who introduce each article in their own clever and never-boring, inimitable way. 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 subscriptions go to: www.massterlist.com/ subscribe. THE HOUSE AND SENATE: There were no roll calls in the House or Senate last week. This week, Beacon Hill Roll Call reports on the percentage of times local senators voted with their party’s leadership in the 2021 session. No additional roll calls in the Senate are planned until 2022. Beacon Hill Roll Call uses 111 votes from the 2021 Senate session as the basis for this report. This includes all roll calls that were not quorum calls or on local issues. The votes of the 34 Democrats were compared to Senate Majority Leader Cynthia Creem (D-Newton), second-in-command in the Senate. We could not compare the Democrats’ votes to those of Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland) because, by tradition, the Senate president rarely votes. The senator who voted with Creem the least percentage of times is Sen. Diana DiZoglio (D-Methuen) who voted with her only 83 times (74.7 percent). Rounding out the top three who voted with Creem the least number of times are Sens. Walter Timilty (D-Milton) who voted with her 91 times (81.9 percent) and Marc Pacheco (D-Taunton) who voted with her 96 times (86.4 percent) All in all, 31 of the 34 Democrats (99.1 percent) voted with Creem 90 percent or more of the time — including 11 (32.3 percent) who voted with Creem 100 percent of the time and six who voted with Creem all but one time. The votes of the two Republican senators were compared with those of GOP Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester). In 2021, as in 2020, none of the two voted with Tarr 100 percent of the time. In 2021, the Republican senator who voted the lowest percentage of times with Tarr was Sen. Patrick O’Conmore populous, Brooklyn or Manhattan? 9. What U.S. state’s language is the derivation of a word for an appetizer? 10. Are flamingos always 1. On December 24 what country has a traditional “Feast of the Seven Fishes”? 2. In 1817, Hawaii’s first coffee was planted in what district of the Big Island? 3. On Dec. 25, 1821, Clara Barton was born – the “Angel of the Battlefield” and founder of the American Red Cross – in North Oxford in what N.E. state? 4. In 1970 who wrote and recorded “Feliz Navidad”? 5. Simba is a Swahili word for what animal? 6. December 26 is the first day of Kwanzaa, which has how many days? 7. What TV music show had a bubble machine? 8. Which NYC borough is pink? 11. On Dec. 27, 1932, what “Showplace of the Nation” opened at Manhattan’s Rockefeller Center? 12. How are thiamin, riboflavin and niacin similar? 13. What well-known Englishman wrote the 1842 travelogue “American Notes for General Circulation,” including the line “The tone of society in Boston is one of perfect politeness, courtesy, and good breeding”? 14. On Dec. 28, 1958, what teams – based in Atlantic nor (R-Weymouth) who voted with Tarr 82.8 percent of the time. Sen. Ryan Fattman (R-Sutton) voted with Tarr 90 percent of the time. SENATORS’ SUPPORT OF THEIR PARTY’S LEADERSHIP IN 2021 The percentage next to the senator’s name represents the percentage of times the senator supported his or her party’s leadership in 2021. The number in parentheses represents the number of times the senator opposed his or her party’s leadership. Some senators voted on all 111 roll call votes. Others missed one or more roll calls. The percentage for each representative is calculated based on the number of roll calls on which he or she voted. Sen. Brendan Crighton 100 percent (0) 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, constituOcean ports – played at the first NFL sudden death overtime game? 15. How are shekel, rand and real similar? 16. “Frosty the Snowman” was first recorded in 1950 by what “Singing Cowboy”? 17. On Dec. 29, 1997, what Asian port began killing chickens to contain the spread of avian flu? 18. The Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball is covered with triangles made of what? 19. What two planets have polar ice caps? 20. On Dec. 30, 1865, Rudyard Kipling was born, who authored what book with a one-word title that is a person’s name? ent work and other matters that are important to their districts. Critics say that the Legislature does not meet regularly or long enough to debate and vote in public view on the thousands of pieces of legislation that have been filed. They note that the infrequency and brief length of sessions are misguided and lead to irresponsible late-night sessions and a mad rush to act on dozens of bills in the days immediately preceding the end of an annual session. During the week of December 13-17, the House and Senate each met for a total of 24 minutes. Mon. Dec. 13 House 11:00 a.m. to 11:12 a.m. Senate 11:05 a.m. to 11:18 a.m. Tues. Dec. 14 No House session No Senate session Wed. Dec. 15 No House session No Senate session Thurs. Dec. 16 House 11:00 a.m. to 11:12 a.m. Senate 11:06 a.m. to 11:17 a.m. Fri. Dec. 17 No House session No Senate session Bob Katzen welcomes feedback at bob@beaconhillrollcall.com ANSWERS 1. Italy 2. Kona 3. Massachusetts 4. José Feliciano 5. Lion 6. Seven 7. “The Lawrence Welk Show” 8. Brooklyn 9. Hawaii (pūpū for pupu platter) 10. Flamingo chicks are grey or white, and a diet of plankton with carotenoids causes them to change color. 11. Radio City Music Hall 12. They are B vitamins. 13. Charles Dickens 14. The Baltimore Colts and the New York Giants 15. They are types of currency (for Israel, South Africa and Brazil, respectively) 16. “Gene” Autry 17. Hong Kong 18. Waterford crystal 19. Earth and Mars 20. “Kim”

Page 20 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 Cash Pay Guaranteed! "If it snows, you'll be working!" FRANK’S Housepainting (781) 289-0698 • Exterior • Ceiling Dr. • Power Wash • Paper Removal • Carpentry FREE ESTIMATES — Fully Insured “Proper prep makes all the difference” – F. Ferrera • Interior 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 We follow Social Distancing Guidelines! ADVOCATE Call now! 781 233 4446

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 Page 21 REAL ESTATE TRANSAC TIONS Copyrighted material previously published in Banker & Tradesman/The Commercial Record, a weekly trade newspaper. It is reprinted with permission from the publisher, The Warren Group. For a searchable database of real estate transactions and property information visit: www.thewarrengroup.com. BUYER1 BUYER2 Sordello, Arthur Deangelis, David THE SQUARE | FROM PAGE 2 • Capitalizing on connections to the Northern Strand Community Trail • Investing in the beautifi cation and cleanup of Cliftondale • Communicating with MBTA and petitioning the state delegation to replace noncompliant bus stop enclosure in the rotary PLANNING | FROM PAGE 2 that the subscription to these resources has been subdued. Care and attention should be provided to the marketing and implementation of any future grant programs that may be utilized in Cliftondale in order to get more eff ective participation. –The long-term provision of SELLER1 344 Central T John Mcgrane IRT • Connecting more eff ectively with Cliftondale stakeholders • Encouraging public art and creating a “Blank Wall” mural program • Providing increased public safety at targeted times • Providing infrastructural and permanent aesthetic upgrades to encourage “downtown” development multi-purpose open space in Cliftondale, which is deemed desirable, depends on major redesign and relocation of existing infrastructure and the roadway layout. Assuming an anticipated master plan process provides recommended alternatives, the Town should be prepared to implement public works improvements on land it SELLER2 Mcconaghy-Brazis, C Skeffi ngton, Maria A • Constructing a municipal parking lot or parking garage • Refi ning traffi c patterns utilizing MassDOT’s regulations • Establishing a Business Improvement District (BID) or implementing District Improvement Financing (DIF) • Becoming a General Member and establishing Cliftondale as a “Main Streets” program controls to create more centralized multi-purpose space. The infrastructure funds expected by the latest federal legislation will likely provide up to $1 million in discretionary allocations for a wide variety of individual projects. The Town should anticipate this level of funding and be prepared to capitalize on it. –Street festivals that close public ways on a limited, short term basis are eff ective tools in promoting downtowns and local merchants. There are companies that work with Towns to organize, market, and manage these events. The Town should put an RFQ out to try and attract prospective event managers. –The streetscape of Cliftondale needs major improvements, which include design standards for private signs and facades. As the Town proceeds with any planning eff ort for the area permanent public realm improvements should be considered and where practical provided, including landscape, lighting, and pedestrian amenities. This should include a central public information kiosk to attract and inform local businesses and events. –As a long-term strategy, zoning incentives to promote redevelopment investment and mixed use will be needed to ADDRESS 344 Central St 61 Lincoln Ave CITY DATE PRICE Saugus 02.12.2021 $800 000,00 Saugus 01.12.2021 $650 000,00 • Creating a town-owned, multipurpose open space “Looking at the bigger picture, it is impossible for the Town to tackle every issue in Cliftondale simultaneously,” the report emphasized. “We must approach these issues in a more manageable scale that can be performed within our municipal budget, provide a sustainable and vibrant environment in Cliftondale well into the future. Recommendations will be provided by the Master Plan update and any planning eff orts that follow, but there is no substitute for best with a capital improvement plan over several years,” it stated. “The committee doesn’t fi nd it necessary or realistic to implement every single recommendation laid out in this report. This report seeks to lay out the various opportunities present that could be implemented if the Town of Saugus is committed to revitalization in Cliftondale.” practices that already exist. –The Town should model zoning incentives on successful outcomes in surrounding Towns and plan on a scale and program that is proven and achievable.

Page 22 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021

THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021 Page 23 Follow Us On: COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY SALES & RENTALS From Our Family To Yours, We Wish You A Merry Christmas! Sandy Juliano Broker/President WE KNOW EVERETT!! Call TODAY to sell or buy with the best! LISTED BY NORMA & ROSEMARIE NEW LISTING BY SANDY SOLD! CONDO - NEW PRICE - $449,900 30 CHELSEA ST. #812 EVERETT CALL NORMA FOR DETAILS! 617-590-9143 NEW LISTING BY SANDY SOLD SINGLE FAMILY 39 ARLINGTON ST., EVERETT $529,900 NEW LISTING 129 CLARENCE ST., EVERETT NEW PRICE! $799,900 TWO FAMILY SOLD BY NORMA HUGE 3 FAMILY 21-23 CLEVELAND AVE., EVERETT $980,000 32 RIDGE RD., READING $675,000 NEW LISTING BY NORMA CONDO 120 WYLLIS AVE., UNIT #310 SOLD BY JOE! 6 FAMILY CHARLES STREET, MALDEN $1,250,000 CALL JOE FOR DETAILS 617-680-7610 UNDER AGREEMENT SINGLE FAMILY 20 BAKER RD., EVERETT $509,900 SOLD BY MICHAEL AS BUYER’S AGENT 58 BRADFORD ST. EVERETT Open Daily From 10:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. 433 Broadway, Suite B, Everett, MA 02149 Open Daily From 10:0 Joe DiNuzzo - Broker Associate :0 00 AM 5:00 PM www.jrs-properties.com Follow Us On: 617.544.6274 Norma Capuano Parziale - Agent Denise Matarazz - Agent Maria Scrima - Agent Rosemarie Ciampi - Agent Michael Matarazzo -Agent Mark Sachetta - Agent

Page 24 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2021

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