Advocate Newspapers

10/09/2025

From Beacon Hill Roll Call in today's Advocate Newspapers:

A Proposed Tax on Lottery Tickets

TAX LOTTERY TICKETS (H 3071) – Would impose the state’s 6.25 percent sales tax on the purchase of Lottery tickets. Currently Lottery tickets are exempt from the sales tax.

“There is a need to be somewhat more consistent, in retail business, across the range of commerce,” said private citizen Vincent Dixon who sponsored the bill under a state law that allows a private citizen to ask their state legislators to file bills on their behalf. “Many stores, with retail traffic, have a substantial part of their business, in Mass Lottery ticket sales which competes, with more traditional products and services, including convenience store availability of modest groceries, beverages and fading amounts of media publications and more.”

Dixon continued, “We know that gambling addiction is a reality and can be a burden on many, particularly lower income individuals and families. The modest charge of the sales tax on Lottery tickets may provide a small disincentive to excessive gambling. I think that we have likely expanded the range of gambling across the commonwealth, beyond a level, and a culture, than we should. If we are going to have such products, which is normal business, they should share normal retail taxes, in the retail economy rather than being a kind of bypass, from more productive products and services.”

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10/09/2025

Saugus Gardens in the Fall
Here’s what’s blooming in town this week to make your walks more enjoyable

By Laura Eisener

Dee LeMay has flowers throughout the year at her home on Springdale Ave., but one she especially looks forward to in mid-fall is the ‘Chocolate’ Eupatorium (Eupatorium rugosum ‘Chocolate’), which has snowy white blossoms against dark reddish brown foliage. Commonly known as ‘Chocolate’ white snakeroot, its foliage is an interesting contrast to green-leaved neighbors even before it blooms. Other snakeroot varieties have green leaves, but this dark-leaved variety has quickly become a very popular garden plant. Cut stems make a great choice for mixed bouquets, too, since its small white flowers can perform the role of baby’s breath as a contrast to larger flowers like roses or sunflowers.
If you are stuck in traffic on Route 1, you can’t help but notice the cheerful fall colors of yellow, orange and white dramatically lining the sidewalk in front of Route 1 Car Wash on the southbound side, just before Prince Pizzeria. Two hundred fifty mums (Chrysanthemum morifolium) covered with blossoms draw attention to the fall harvest display under the sign. It would be hard to count individuals that make up the array of pumpkins, squumpkins, turban squash, etc. in yellow, white, orange and green piled against hay bales. Owner Joseph Salines Jr. enjoys the colorful seasonal displays; this summer’s patriotic display of red, white and dark purple petunias was also very noteworthy. Manager Ed Pedone says they get many compliments from customers and passersby about the garden displays.
Roses are still in bloom in many places in Saugus, boosted a bit by all the sunny days we have had. My roses have been bunny breakfasts quite a few times this summer, and I thought mine would not likely produce another flower this year, but I was wrong. My fragrant pink “Memorial Day” rose is in full bloom again. This plant is growing beside some dwarf joe-pye w**d (Eutrochium dubium ‘Little Joe’), which flowered profusely in late summer and is now gone to seed. I was surprised last week to see a bright pink bud peeking out from under its neighboring joe-pye w**d, and this week it has opened up. The joe-pye w**d is rabbit resistant and a fairly close relative of the white snakeroot, for a long time considered part of the same genus, but joe-pye w**d has been reclassified as Eutrochium rather than Eupatorium.
The Topsfield Fair, one of America’s oldest agricultural fairs, is in full swing a few towns north of us on Route 1 and will continue through this weekend until Monday, October 13. People line up to see the largest pumpkin in the vegetable barn, and to pose for selfies with each year’s award-winning cucurbit. This year’s pumpkin is another record breaker. The 41st “All New England Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off” was held last Friday, October 3. This year’s winner weighs 2,507 lbs. and was grown by Alex Noel in Connecticut.
Pumpkins (Cucurbita pepo) and their close relatives in the same genus (Cucurbita maxima and Cucurbita moschata) include many winter squashes and other fall to winter vegetables that people often refer to as squumpkins — squash/pumpkins and their hybrids. They have become a major symbol of the fall harvest season and in addition to being the competitive focal point of the fair, they appear as decorations throughout the fair and on steps and porches all around the region.
The Topsfield Fair’s Flower Building houses beautiful autumn landscape displays, cut flowers, especially fall bloomers, such as dahlias, and flower arrangements. It also includes a spectacular bonsai display highlighting trees and other woody plants that have been kept small and shaped according to ancient Japanese pruning and training techniques. One unusual plant in the exhibit this year is a porcelain berry (Ampelopsis glandulosa) being trained by Alex Manoogian of Saugus. It is also known as Amur pepperberry and is an Asian plant related to grapes and Virginia creeper. This vine can be invasive if not carefully managed, but bonsai techniques are very precise and labor-intensive. The vine’s common name comes from the sky blue “porcelain-like” color of its ripe berries.
Saugus beekeepers Dorie Duggan and Ryan Duggan have several items on display in the Beekeeping Building at the Topsfield Fair, and between them have won quite a few ribbons. Both have made beeswax candles and other decorative items from beeswax, including the barn and farm animals that won Ryan a blue ribbon (in the photo). The family has had many years of beekeeping experience in the Oaklandvale neighborhood of Saugus.

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.

CAPTIONS

Dee LeMay’s ‘Chocolate’ eupatorium is in full bloom this week. (Photo courtesy of Dee LeMay)

Two hundred fifty chrysanthemums line Route 1 at Route 1 Car Wash for the harvest season. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener)

An amazing variety of pumpkins on hay bale pedestals provide a great display at Route 1 Car Wash. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener)

A blossom of ‘Memorial Day’ rose opens just as the adjacent joe-pye w**d is finishing up in Lynnhurst. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener)

Piles of pumpkins and fall flowers line front steps in Lynnhurst. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener)

At the Topsfield Fair, this beeswax farm made by Ryan Duggan of Saugus won a blue ribbon. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener)

Alex Manoogian’s porcelain berry is in the bonsai exhibit inside the Flower Building at the Topsfield Fair. (Photo courtesy of Laura Eisener)

10/09/2025

~ Political Announcement ~

Debra Panetta Announces her Candidacy for Re-Election to the Board of Selectmen

Hello, my name is Debra Panetta, and I am announcing my candidacy for re-election to the Board of Selectmen. It has been my privilege to serve on the Board of Selectmen, and I would be honored to serve two more years.
I am married to Mark Panetta, and have two children, Mark Jr. and Sabrina. I graduated from Suffolk University earning a BSBA in Accounting and earned my MBA from Northeastern University.
I also earned my Lean Six Sigma and PMP (Project Management Professional) Certifications. I work for Victoria Realty as a Site Manager/Finance Director. I have 40 years of accounting, finance, auditing, and real estate experience, and I am a business owner.
I have served as your Saugus Selectman for the past fourteen years, currently as Chairman. I am the President of the Saugus River Watershed Council, past President and member of SAVE. I am a member of the Historical Society, Saugus Business Education Collaborative, Friends of Breakheart, Women’s Guild, New Friends of the Saugus Library, Conservation Law, and the Garden Club.
Previously, I served as the Chairman of the Saugus School Committee, a five-term Town Meeting Member representing Precinct 5, and Vice-Chair of the Saugus Charter Commission. I also served as Secretary of the Cliftondale Revitalization Committee, the Master Plan Advisory Committee, and the Family Related Apartment Committee. I have also received my Distinguished Toastmaster designation.
I have been endorsed by the Sierra Club, the North Atlantic, States Regional Council of Carpenters Local 339, and the Environmental League of Massachusetts (ELM) Action Fund.
Since taking office, I have been involved in many initiatives, including:
• an increase in our bond rating to AA+ by S&P due to our strong economy and budget performance, saving taxpayers millions of dollars,
• construction of the new Saugus Middle/High School complex and renovation/repurposing of the Belmonte and Veterans Schools,
• rebuilding of our parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities,
• acceptance as a designated green community,
• a record amount of funds in stabilization,
• an increase in grant funding for public safety and recreation,
• supported hiring police, fire, and public safety personnel for a safer Saugus,
• creation of our C.H.a.R.M. Center for hard to recycle materials,
• road and sidewalk improvements,
• and the completion of the rail / bike trail.
Saugus residents can continue looking towards the future with confidence and progress.
We will work towards:
• continued strong financial performance in town,
• additional progress made on building & staffing a third fire station / West Side Public Safety and EMS Response Facility,
• completion of the Town-wide Public Safety Fiber-Optics Communication System Infrastructure upgrade,
• progress on the Town’s multimillion-dollar water meter replacement and advanced technology modernization program,
• addressing town-wide traffic concerns,
• continued expansion of our parks, trails, and open spaces,
• responsible, sustainable development that balances growth with protection of our neighborhoods and local infrastructure, and
• continued public discussions regarding the offline schools.
I am honored to have served as your Selectman for the past 14 years. I believe I have conducted myself with dignity, integrity, and professionalism with the office you have entrusted me with. I would like to work towards the continued progress our town has made for the betterment of residents and business owners. I would appreciate your vote on Tuesday, November 4th.
I am #7 on the ballot.
Thank you.
Debra

Contact information: (781-233-9720), [email protected], Facebook: Debra Panetta for Saugus Selectman

10/09/2025

Shining Lights of Everyday People

“Not all of us can do great things but we can do small things with great love.”—Mother Teresa

By Joanie Allbee

Eugene Decareau of the Saugus Class of 1948 exudes a lifelong warmth and charisma, embraced with character.
As a man of many toppers, Gene just received another one at Founders Day. Mr. Eugene Decareau wears the crown of the 2025 Saugus Man of the Year. Congratulations.
As Mr. Decareau sails into his 90s with his wife Arlene, he has many hats to reflect upon: Saugus football player, Saugus YMCA Director, Town Meeting Member, Saugus Board of Appeals member, Saugus Food Pantry volunteer, 50-plus years active with the Lions Club, Little League Coach, father to three sons, grandfather and husband to the love of his life – Arlene, who was the girl next door, literally.
Our reigning crowned leader switches to wearing the chef toque at whim, as he is a fine baker of pastries to the rivalry of any bakery. Gene bakes and donates to fundraisers and auctions. His banana cream pie is a Saugus legend.
Decareau loves to hold classes, teaching his pastry secrets of success. His popover class is popular and samples of his accomplishments are delicious. His popovers resemble hot air balloons with baskets. All students leave with satisfied tummies and reassurance of no more deflated messes looking like pancakes.
Gene interchanges chapeaus as eloquently as lyrics and bridge in a song. Our man of the year stands with extended arms, ready to serve the Town of Saugus through his memberships to a multitude of organizations.

CAPTION

Eugene Decareau (Courtesy of “The Sketch Artist”)

10/09/2025

~ Political Announcement ~

Peter Manoogian announces re-election bid for Precinct 10 Town Meeting Member.

First elected in 1985 to represent Precinct 10, Peter is regarded as one of the most knowledgeable and experienced elected officials in the Town of Saugus.
He has served 13 terms (26 years) as a Precinct 10 Town Meeting Member, 3 terms (6 years) as a Selectman, 1 term (2 years) as a School Committee Member, and 1 term (3 years) as Finance Committee Member and Chairman. In all of these 40 years of elected and appointed service, he has missed only one meeting. He has a 100 percent voting record in Town Meeting and has maintained independence and ethical conduct as a Town official.
Peter has never taken the residents of Precinct 10 for granted. He is known to be responsive and effective in addressing constituent inquiries and concerns, whether it be tree limb issues or a zoning issue affecting neighbors.
He has been a vocal advocate of closing the WIN ash landfill. He has formed and nurtured alliances with regional and state officials to further that goal. He believes that Saugus residents should not have to be subject to higher health risks from an incinerator that cannot possibly meet emission standards.
Peter is responsible for a bylaw adoption that prevents a trash fee without a vote of Town Meeting. Because of this bylaw, Saugus is one of but a few North Shore communities where the residents are provided trash pickup without paying a fee. He is aware that the state will soon be allowing local communities to raise the meal tax. Peter will oppose this when it comes before Town Meeting.
Peter usually supports the financial recommendations of the Finance Committee, especially on proposals that have resulted in Saugus being in the best fiscal condition in its history. He also supported Selectman Serino’s proposed zoning changes to restrict the height and density of Route 1 apartment buildings. These proposals were adopted.
He was a vocal opponent of the Town Meeting allowing ma*****na sales in Saugus after the voters opposed these sales. To date, Saugus has not received 1 cent in revenue and has expended tens of thousands of dollars on lawsuits brought forth by disgruntled applicants.
If re-elected by the voters of Precinct 10, Peter will remain responsive to his constituents and God willing, will attend each Meeting and vote on every article. Peter often reminds his colleagues of the Athenian Oath to “transmit this town not only, not less, but greater and more beautiful than it was transmitted to us.”

10/09/2025

~ Political Announcement ~

Bartolo seeks TM reelection in Precinct 6

My name is Jean M. Bartolo.
I am running for Re-election as your Representative Town Meeting Member for Precinct 6. I am asking for your continued support and vote this Election Day, Tuesday, November 4th.
As a Town Meeting member, I:
• have 100%Town Meeting Attendance
• Voted against Re-zoning Cliftondale Square
• Continuously Vote against Water Rate Increases
• Voted against the $1.5M “One Time Assessment” tax
• Voted for the installment of the S.H.S. fence along Route I
• Voted to keep our Library, Senior Center and Youth & Recreation open
• Continue to Vote for Chapter 90 Highway funds: handicap ramps & sidewalks
• Voted for a new Saugus High School to be built & Belmonte renovation
• Voted for Hamilton St. & Lincoln Ave. road resurfacing / sidewalk installment
• Voted to fund feasibility study & the creation of a third fire station
• Voted for the Rail-Trail
In addition to Town Meeting, I am a longtime volunteer:
• Charter member, Saugus Public Library Foundation, former Vice-President
• Saugus Emergency Management Agency—Shelter Manager
• Sidewalk Committee—ADA Handicap compliance work
• Former Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Secretary for the Saugus Public Library
• Former Chairman, Long Range Planning Committee, Saugus Public Library
• Two term Secretary, Saugus Cultural Arts Council
• Former Volunteer Saugus Public Schools
• Saugus Veterans Council
• Former Member Saugus 411
• Saugus War Monument Committee
• American Legion Women’s Auxiliary
I would like to personally thank you for allowing me to represent you. I ask for your continued faith in me by giving me your VOTE this Election Day, Tuesday, November 4th.

10/09/2025

ADVOCATE SPORTS
Winthrop tops Saugus, 40-6; Sachems now head to Salem

By Dom Nicastro

Saugus suffered a difficult night at home against Winthrop Thursday, falling in Northeastern Conference football action by a 40-6 margin. For much of the contest, Winthrop controlled the tempo and kept Saugus off balance. Saugus finally got on the board with about five minutes left, when Eli Fialho connected with Ryan Shea on a 50-yard touchdown pass. The two-point conversion attempt failed, and that would be the lone score for the Sachems.
Looking back, Saugus football has been chasing stability. Over the last several seasons, the team has struggled to break through in the Northeastern Conference and has often been in the process of building — 2024 ended with a 3–8 record. In 2023, the Sachems went 5–6, a mark that showed flashes of promise amid inconsistency.
Winthrop got control of the line of scrimmage and forced Saugus into negative or stalled situations, and the Sachems had limited answers.
On defense, Saugus has in the past shown flashes of bend-but-not-break resilience — particularly early in seasons before fatigue or depth issues set in. But as senior captain Jordan Rodriguez noted following this loss, past strengths gave way this game to misalignment and bursts allowed by Winthrop. That echoes other games from recent years in which late-game wear, substitutions or defensive fatigue contributed to margin growth against Saugus. Rodriguez said the team has the ability to move the ball but is looking for more consistency to break through and get some big gains.
“Our running back Chris Mazin runs hard and downhill — we just need a little more movement up front and we will have so many more big gains,” Rodriguez said. “It always seems that we are always one block away from a big gain or even a touchdown. We need to improve on this because it hurts our drive when on first down we get no gain or even a loss of yards. Past couple weeks we have been playing behind the sticks, and that’s hurts an offense.”
He also reflected on the defense’s strain under volume. “A strength for us in the first three weeks was our defense — we played good, hard defense up until Winthrop when things started to fall apart on misalignment and things like that,” he said.“ … Our defense has been strong even though we have been letting up points, but we have been on the field for defense about double the amount of plays we have had on offense, so when that happens the team is bound to let up some points.”
Rodriguez also parsed what broke down on Winthrop’s side, saying some fundamentals got lost and Winthrop took advantage. “Some of the challenges that we faced during Winthrop is that we didn’t line up correctly most of the game,” he said. “We had gaps open that shouldn’t have been. We also didn’t get to the point of attack quick enough. We knew they like to bring a lot of blockers to the play side, and we needed to fill better, and we just didn’t do that well enough.”
On preparing for what’s next, Rodriguez said the focus is on patching up the inconsistencies. “The focus during practice this week is to get our heads right and continue to work on what we need to fix and get ready for another NEC battle against Salem,” he said. “Salem, like any other team in the NEC, they are a competitor. They have a good running back in the backfield that runs well and couple of good receivers that just like to find open space. They also run a defense that we haven’t played against this year, so we have to get ready for that. Looking forward to seeing what we can do against them this Friday.”
Saugus will travel to face Salem Friday, Oct. 10, with kickoff scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Salem enters with a 2–3 record, having just fallen 33–0 to Gloucester.

CUTLINES:

6.
Members of the 2025 Saugus Football cheerleaders (in no particular order) are Addy Spinney, Alesha Bien-Aime, Alexis Mitchell, Allison Figueroa, Alyssa Mikalix, Amani Guenanou, Amy Buzi, Ana Gutierrez, Audrina Giglio, Ava Pina, Brandi Murray, Camila DiFraia, Izzy Dedo, Jenna Pabon, Kat Byrd, Kieiry Camilo Grullon, Lani Guadalupe Perez, Leeomi Pagan, Lexi McQuade, Madison Carrillo, Marla Youance, Maya Sufran, Mikaela Trombella, Natalia Norkum, Raylin Rogers, Maya Sufran, Mikaela Trombella, Savanna Dalton, Soraya Mathieu, Stephanie Perez and Yaneli Flores. (Advocate photo by Emily Harney)

11.
Ryan Moreira carries the ball upfield for some yardage for the Sachems.

12.
Sachems’ quarterback Eli Fialho is shown making a pass during last Thursday’s action.

24.
Sachem defenders Caua Martins and Nathan Santos gang-up on a Viking ball carrier.

10/09/2025

The Sounds of Saugus

By Mark E. Vogler

Good morning, Saugus
By now, most folks passing through Saugus Center have got to be feeling “The Orange Glow,” a spirit that captivates many town residents this time of year. The First Congregational Church’s 23rd Annual Pumpkin Patch is up-and-running and will be open through Halloween, Oct. 31.
It was nearly two weeks ago that a tractor trailer arrived with pumpkins from the Navajo Reservation in Farmington, New Mexico. Dozens of volunteers showed up to help unload the pumpkins. The church has appealed for more volunteers to help unload another shipment that’s due at about 9 a.m. tomorrow (Saturday, Oct. 11). Pumpkins of all sizes are displayed on the church lawn and will be available for purchase every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Here’s a message we received this week from Pumpkin Patch coordinator Carl Spencer: “Come and visit our Pumpkin Patch. It will put you in the fall spirit. The pumpkins are going fast, so come and choose yours. This Saturday, October 11 at 9am the 2nd Pumpkin Truck arrives with more pumpkins. Help is needed to unload the truck. The church truly enjoys hosting this great fall event.”
The town appears to welcome this tradition, as the volunteer turnout for the first pumpkin unloading demonstrated. If you didn’t get to participate in the first pumpkin unloading or if you have never participated in one, plan on attending tomorrow if you are free.
For information please contact Carl Spencer (781-233-9196).

A fire prevention “Shout Out”
Patty Montano, leader of Saugus Girl Scout Troop 63628, offered this “shout out” after members of her troop were treated like guests during a recent visit to the Saugus Fire Department:
“On October 1, Girl Scout Troop 63628 kicked off Fire Prevention Month with a fun visit to the Saugus Fire Station! Fire Captain Bill Cross and his son, firefighter Pat Cross, taught the girls all about fire safety, showed them the fire trucks, and even demonstrated how firefighters put on their gear. The girls had an amazing time exploring, asking questions, and learning how firefighters help keep our community safe!”

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 ([email protected]) 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.

Saugus United Parish Food Pantry
The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry is open today (Friday, Oct. 10) from 9:30-11 a.m. at 50 Essex St. in the basement of Cliftondale Congregational Church. The food pantry welcomes all neighbors facing food insecurity on Friday mornings. Volunteers are also welcome. Please call the Food Pantry Office (781-233-2663) or go to the website (cliftondalecc.org) for details.

Trivia Night is Oct. 16!
This is a reminder from Selectman Corinne Riley:
Members of the Saugus Business Education Collaborative have scheduled their popular fundraising event: “Trivia Night”! If you are interested in securing a table for your team, it will be at Kowloon, October 16 at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m.
Register your team from businesses, organizations, teachers, PTOs, friends...all are welcome! You will be competing for a trophy, as well as bragging rights!
Teams are at least five members, cost is $275.00 per team or $55.00 per participant. Do you want to come and join in the fun as a spectator? The cost is $25.00 each. Cost includes a buffet dinner.
A fun-filled night that benefits the students of our town! If you are interested please email [email protected] or [email protected] to register your team no later than October 14.

A return of the Halloween Pet Parade on Oct. 19
The Friends of Breakheart are gearing up for their Third Annual Halloween Pet Parade, which is set for Sunday, Oct. 19. Registration begins at 11 a.m. at the Christopher P. Dunne Memorial Visitor Center (177 Forest St. in Saugus). A $10 donation is required to enter your pet. The Friends will use the proceeds for park activities and future events. Cash or check. No Venmo. Prizes will be awarded for Best Costume, Best Silly Pet Trick and Best Personality. Raffle prizes are open to all who donate. For more information, please call Joyce at 781-233-1855, extension 1019, or Lisa Mirasola at 781-808-7817.

Alcohol/Drug Recovery program Oct. 20
The Saugus-Everett Elks Drug Awareness Committee is sponsoring an Alcohol and Drug Recovery presentation from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Monday, October 20, at the Saugus Senior Center (466 Central St. in Saugus). This will be an hour-long presentation conducted by Sober Shuttle, Inc. explaining the benefits offered to recovering individuals. This is a free event, and people who are interested are welcome to attend. If you or someone you know would like to know more about these services, you should not miss this informative event. Services provided are cost-free transportation into treatment, recovery coach services, placement assistance, food assistance, clothing assistance, community engagement and much more. Light refreshments will be served.
Call the Saugus Senior Center at 781-231-3178 to attend. Walk-ins are also welcome.

Oct. 25 – final day to register to vote
Town Clerk Ellen Schena this week issued a reminder that the last day to register to vote is Saturday, Oct. 25, at the Saugus Public Library. The Community Room at the library will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for town residents wanting to register for the Nov. 4 town election.
This will also be the only day for in person early voting. Voters should use the Taylor Street entrance on that Saturday.

The Field of Flags is coming soon
The Parson Roby Chapter of the DAR recently issued the following press release:
Patriotism will once again fill the heart of Saugus this November as the Parson Roby Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) proudly prepares for the 5th annual Veteran’s Day Field of Flags.
On November 11, the lawn of Saugus Town Hall will be transformed into a sea of red, white, and blue in tribute to the brave men and women who have defended our freedoms — past, present, and future.
Each American flag will carry the name of a veteran — living, deceased or currently serving. Flags may be sponsored for $5 each, with proceeds supporting the DAR’s mission to preserve American history, foster education, and promote patriotism. Sponsors may honor a family member, friend, neighbor, or employee who has served our nation with courage and sacrifice.
The deadline to sponsor a flag is October 30th. To participate, please mail a check ($5 per flag) payable to Parson Roby Chapter DAR, along with the veteran’s information (Name, Rank, Branch of Service, Years of Service or War if known) to:
Treasurer, 27 Pearson St., Saugus, MA 01906.
Flags will be placed on the Town Hall lawn prior to Veteran’s Day, where they will remain proudly displayed through November 12th. After 12 noon on November 11th, sponsors may collect their flags as keepsakes or to place on a veteran’s grave. All flags will be removed from Town Hall lawn on November 12th.
Since the project’s launch in 2021, the Field of Flags has become a cherished community tradition. Last year, over 120 flags waved in honor of veterans, each one a powerful reminder of the service and sacrifice that protect our way of life. Residents frequently stop to reflect, take photos, and share heartfelt thanks for this moving display of remembrance.
This year, the Parson Roby Chapter DAR invites the community to join together once more in honoring our heroes. Let us stand united as Americans—proud, grateful, and determined to remember.
Remember Our Veterans. Honor Their Service. Celebrate Their Sacrifice.
For more information on sponsoring a flag or joining the DAR, please email: [email protected].

Scout Troop 62 seeks new members
Boy Scout Troop 62 is seeking new members to join the troop. Girls as well as boys will be welcome.
“We are also starting a girl unit,” Troop 62 Scoutmaster John Kane said. “Scouting for the troop is now open to both Girls and Boys, ages 10 to 18 years old.”
“These will be separate units meeting at the same time and location. They will also be working together on some activities,” he said.
Both units meet in the basement of Cliftondale Congregational Church at 50 Essex St. in Saugus. Meeting time will be 6:45 until 8:45 p.m. on Tuesday evening. Come check out the fun.
If you have questions, please call Scoutmaster John Kane at 781-389-2708 or come down to Cliftondale Congregational Church and say “Hi!”

Breakheart Happenings
Breakheart Reservation will be hosting several family-oriented, fun events this month:
Continuing tomorrow (Saturday, Oct. 11) and lasting through the following two Saturdays, Yoga will be offered from 8 to 9 a.m. Come for this experience – a dynamic class that beautifully intertwines movement with breath, guiding you through a seamless flow from one asana to the next in Vinyasa yoga. Each transition is fluid and intentional, creating a harmonious connection between body and spirit as you explore the depths of your practice. Embrace the rhythm of your breath while discovering the grace of each posture, allowing the essence of yoga to unfold with every flowing movement. This class is led by Nicole Salvati. There is a $10 suggested donation for each class. Please scan or access the link to register! https://tinyurl.com/breakheartyoga
In case of rain, the class will move into the Visitor Center.
On Saturday, Oct. 18, at 10 a.m., state Rep. Donald Wong will offer a class in Tai Chi and Qigong. Spend some time in nature connecting with your body and movements. This program will be offered at the Visitor Center at 177 Forest St. in Saugus. All abilities are welcome! In case of rain, this event will be canceled. Dress comfortably. Email [email protected] with any questions.
There will be an Early Fall Guided Nature Walk on Oct. 23 from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Please join Jeff Adams for a guided nature walk at Breakheart Reservation. The focus will be on plant ID with select natural history and lore mixed in, too. And we’ll use helpful identifiers, such as galls, leaf shapes, flowers, fruits and diagnostic characteristics, that enable us to immediately identify the plant. Registration is required. Follow the link or scan the code to register: https://tinyurl.com/EarlyFallHike
Meet outside the Visitor Center, heavy rain cancels. Email [email protected] with questions.

The Library is looking for volunteers
If you love being around books, try hanging out at the Saugus Public Library. If you already hang out there, here’s a message from Lisa, the Head Reference Librarian: “We are looking for teens that need community service hours, and adults to volunteer at the library. We currently have openings on Tuesdays and Saturdays. If you are interested, please email Lisa, Head Reference Librarian at [email protected], call 781-231-4168, or stop by to fill out a Volunteer Application.”

2026 Local Cultural Council grant cycle now open
The Saugus Cultural Council has received an allocation of $15,500 from the state to fund enriching and diverse cultural activities, events and school field trips for Saugus and neighboring communities, according to Tori Darnell, co-chair of the Saugus Cultural Council. Grant applications are welcomed between September 2 and October 16. For more information, please email [email protected].

Newspapers at the library
Thanks to a donation from a patron, The New York Times is now available at the Library, according to Saugus Public Library Director Alan Thibeault. “You can also stop by and read the Saugus Advocate, Lynn Item, Boston Herald, and the Boston Globe as well!” Thibeault said.

Saugus Youth Cross Country 2025
Grades 1-5 and 6-8 not running for a school team can run on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3:45 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Belmonte; Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Breakheart Reservation. The training distances are 1st to 3rd, .7 miles; 4th and 5th, 1.2 miles; 6th-8th, 1.9 miles.
Practice races are Saturdays (to be determined) at Frey Park in Lynn at 285 Walnut St.
Saturday, Oct. 25: Fun Run practice at Breakheart. Athletes are encouraged to wear a costume.
Saturday, Nov. 1: 16th Annual Massachusetts State Middle School Cross Country Championship at Willard Field in Devens (more information to be announced).
Tuesday, Nov. 11: 11th Annual Massachusetts Elementary School Cross Country Championship, 8:30 a.m. arrival – 9:30 a.m. start; Lynn Gannon Golf Course, 60 Great Woods Rd.; lunch at Prince Pizzeria following the meet.
Ending Thursday, Nov. 13: Wrap-up Session at Belmonte.
Cost: $150 for first year, $75 returning from Cross Country 2024.
If you have any questions, need further information or want to register, please contact Coach T at 781-854-6778 or [email protected].

Saugus High Class of 1965 reunion
The Saugus High Class of 1965 will be celebrating its 60th Reunion on Saturday, Nov. 29, at Prince Pizzeria on Route 1 South in Saugus. Cost is $50 per person. The final date for reservations is Nov. 1! You can contact Ellen Santosuosso at 781-666-3470 or [email protected] for more details.
Come join your friends and classmates for our 60th Reunion. There’s a bonus for those alumni who attend the reunion: The new Saugus Middle-High School will be open on that Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon. It will be a great opportunity to see the new campus.

Saugus High Class of 1980 Reunion is Nov. 29
The 1980 Saugus High School Class will observe its 45th Reunion on Saturday, Nov. 29, at the Saugus Elks Hall. Hello everyone.
Although our 1980 SHS Class is not merging with any other classes, we wanted to extend the invitation to our friends and family members that would like to join us. I (Pete Nicolo) have several friends that did not graduate in our year (1980) that will be attending.
Most of us have kept in touch with some of our classmates / friends throughout the years. But what about the classmates / friends that you would love to see and have not seen in decades? I’ve recently reconnected with a couple of Classmates that I really hung out with and had a lot of laughs with in High School – hadn’t seen them in over 40 years. It has been quite a wonderful experience for me to reconnect with them.
This is an opportunity to reconnect or simply have some laughs with old friends. Come see your SHS friends and be a part of making this a memorable event. We expect a good turnout – you’ll have a Blast!
Some of the people we have sent / extended the invitation to are:
● Invites were extended to our entire 1980 Saugus High Class (over 90% of 1980 Classmates contacted – including Classmates living overseas).
● Saugus Jr. High Classmates that left and graduated from other High Schools
● Saugus High family members (1 Classmate has 2 sisters that graduated a couple of yrs. earlier and later)
● Saugus High School teachers and coaches attending (Babcock, Volpe, Melvin, Ward and others) – please feel free to reach out / invite your favorite teachers that you may keep in touch with and want to see there
● People move, addresses change, friends from other classes may want to attend – please help us extend our invitation to them.
● If you are one of our classmates that hasn’t attended in a long while, you are the people we look forward to seeing. Long Lost Friends!
There already appears to be much interest in this event, so if you plan on going, please RSVP by November 8 or earlier. This will help us plan better for this gathering.
Make checks ($45 per person) payable to: Pete Nicolo, 15 Tilden Lane, York, Maine 03909 or Venmo: Pete Nicolo@Pete-Nicolo
Any questions, please feel free to reach out to: Andrea Saunders (1980 Class President) or Pete Nicolo (Class of 1980) at:
Andrea Saunders: [email protected] or 978-482-5787.
Peter Nicolo: [email protected] or 978-815-8234 (new email address).

About The Saugus Advocate
We welcome press releases, news announcements, freelance articles and courtesy photos from the community. Our deadline is 6 p.m. on Tuesday. If you have a story idea, an article or a photo to submit, please email me at [email protected] or leave a message at 978-683-7773. Or send your press release to me in the mail at PO Box 485, North Andover, MA 01845. Let us become your hometown newspaper. The Saugus Advocate is available in the Saugus Public Library, the Saugus Senior Center, Saugus Town Hall, local convenience stores and restaurants throughout town.

CAPTIONS

A CALL FOR MORE VOLUNTEERS: On Sept. 27, two weeks ago tomorrow, an army of town volunteers of all ages converged on Saugus Center to help First Congregational Church unload this tractor trailer full of pumpkins for the 23rd Annual Pumpkin Patch. Volunteers are needed again tomorrow at 9 a.m. to unload another shipment of pumpkins from the Navajo Reservation in Farmington, New Mexico. (Courtesy photo of Joanie Allbee)

GIRL SCOUTS VISIT FIRE DEPARTMENT: Saugus Fire Captain William E. Cross III and his son, firefighter Pat Cross, hosted members of Saugus Girl Scout Troop 63628 on Oct. 1 in observance of National Fire Prevention Month. The girls’ visit also put a focus on the start of Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 5-11) in Massachusetts. (Courtesy photo of Patty Montano)

A ONE-WOMAN SHOW: The New Friends of the Saugus Public Library welcome Sheryl Faye as Ruth Bader Ginsburg in “I Dissent” tomorrow (Saturday, Oct.11) at 2 p.m. in the Community Room at the Saugus Public Library. Ruth Bader Ginsburg was an American lawyer and jurist who served on the Supreme Court of the United States from 1993 until her death in 2020. As a Supreme Court justice, Ginsburg stood out because she was not afraid to dissent and disagree with conditions of unfairness and inequality. This one-woman show is the inspiring story of how she changed her life — and ours. (Courtesy photo to The Saugus Advocate)