The Sounds of Saugus

Back-to-School countdown

  Hey, Saugus kids!

  Enjoy your summer while it lasts. Read a little. Have fun. Relax, because you only have about five more weeks left until it’s back-to-school time!

  The 2022-23 School Year Calendar was recently posted on the Saugus Public Schools website. School begins on Aug. 30 for students in grades 1 to 12. Kindergarten and Pre-K classes begin on Aug. 31.

  If you are interested in local places to visit to spice up your summer, go to the Saugus Public Library, the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site, Breakheart Reservation, the Youth & Recreation Department or the Saugus Senior Center. Collectively, these places offer a lot of summertime options for Saugus residents.

2015 Student Records will be destroyed

  The Cumulative Record Folders for the Saugus High School Graduate Class of 2015 are scheduled for destruction on Aug. 1. Any 2015 graduate of Saugus High School who wishes to obtain their records before they are destroyed, please email Kim Alba at kalba@saugus.k12.ma.us. The pickup dates and times will be given to you via email.

We have a winner!

  Congratulations to Doug Pogson for making the right identification in last week’s “Guess Who Got Sketched!” contest. Doug was one of several readers answering correctly, but he was the only one to have his name picked in a drawing from the green Boston Red Sox cap.

  Here’s the correct answer, offered by the person who goes by the name of The Sketch Artist:

  “The answer to last week’s sketch is longtime resident Charlie Zapolski. Often Charlie goes by his nickname ‘Zap’ by his fans, locals and friends.

  “Charlie is an amateur photographer who shoots like a pro! From birds to sunsets to water droplets on his window reflecting the American flag, Charlie captures it all! Charlie’s photography has been featured throughout the years in The Saugus Advocate, as well as many other publications – including the nationwide Sunday newspaper magazine ‘Parade.’

  “He won second place in a National Weather Service-Boston winter scene Contest; featuring Saugus Iron Works. His ‘second place’ scene captivated and took this artist five minutes to just breathe it all in … Picturesque weather patterns caught in a moment of time, surrounded by a Historical Landmark. *(This Award winning weather picture is available on The Internet to enjoy.)

  “Charlie has his Facebook account where he shares his joy and gift of photography freely and has many followers. The Saugus Advocate July 1, Cover photo “Celebrating Our Independence,” showcased One of Charlie’s majestic feather glistening bald eagle photos! That issue features several of Charlie’s more patriotic shots. Also in that issue, ‘The Advocate Asks’ article by Editor Mark E. Vogler, titled ‘Saugus Photographer Charlie “Zap” Zapolski talks about his pursuit of the bald eagle – America’s national emblem,’ interviews Charlie on his love of photography, biography and features a few of Zap’s favorite photos.

  “Thank you for sharing with us all the peek thru your lens!

  “Yours Truly,

  “The Sketch Artist”

A big “Shout-out” to a Saugus artist

  We didn’t receive any nominations from our readers this week for Saugus residents deserving of high praise. So, we’ll dedicate this week’s “shout-out” to Deborah Barrett-Cutulle, a well-known sand sculpturer from Saugus, who won “The People’s Choice Award” at the 18th Annual Revere Beach International Sand Sculpting Festival last Saturday (July 23).

  Saugus Advocate photographer Tara Vocino got to spend some time with Deborah on Revere Beach recently, and several of her photos in this week’s edition capture the beauty of Deborah’s work, which was a favorite among the folks who attended the festival.

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.

Summer Concert Series continues Wednesday

  The National Parks Service and Saugus Public Library are cosponsoring a free Summer Concert Series that continues at 6 p.m. at the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site, which is located at 244 Central St. in Saugus. Here is the rest of the Summer Concert Series at a glance:

• August 3 – Squeeze Box Stompers: Cajun & zydeco
• August 10 – Memorylaners: 50’s, 60’s & 70’s music
• August 17 – Decades of Rock Band: classic rock 70’, 80’s & 90’s
• August 24 – Marina & Bernardo: acoustic folk

  Each concert will be held outdoors, weather permitting (see SaugusPublicLibrary.org for updates/cancellations). Bring your own chair or blanket. Picnics welcome!

“Zoom” Book Study

  The Rev. John Beach of St. John’s Episcopal Church wants to get the word out to Saugonians who might be interested in participating in a new book study, via Zoom videoconferencing. The book is called “The Violence Project: How to Stop A Mass Shooting Epidemic” (by Jillian Peterson, PhD and James Densley, PhD). It’s the Winner of the 2022 Minnesota Book Award

  According to theviolenceprojectbook.com, “Using data from the writers’ groundbreaking research on mass shooters, including first-person accounts from the perpetrators themselves, The Violence Project charts new pathways to prevention and innovative ways to stop the social contagion of violence. Frustrated by reactionary policy conversations that never seemed to convert into meaningful action, special investigator and psychologist Jill Peterson and sociologist James Densley built The Violence Project, the first comprehensive database of mass shooters. Their goal was to establish the root causes of mass shootings and figure out how to stop them.”

  Sandy Hook Promise co-founder and managing director Nicole Hockley said, “If you ever wondered how can we stop mass shootings, this is the book for you. By mixing compelling first-person interviews with mass shooters and significant data analysis, The Violence Project illustrates the tangible ways we can intervene and prevent a tragedy from occurring. No one is helpless – read this book and help stop violence before it starts.”

  Rev. Beach says the book study group meets on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:30 East Coast Time, from Sept. 7 through Oct. 5. For more information, contact The Rev. John Beach at revjbeach@gmail.com

What’s happening at the Saugus Public Library

  For schoolchildren looking for interesting projects and programs to participate in this summer, there’s plenty to do at the Saugus Public Library. Here are next month’s highlights:

  Princess Ariel Storytime at the Saugus Ironworks, Wednesday, Aug. 3, from 10 to 11 a.m. Stories, songs and activities with Ariel – all ages – registration not required.

  Tie-Dye with Zoe, Thursday Aug. 4, 3:30 to 5 p.m. in the Craft Room. Ages eight and up – registration required. Email melton@noblenet.org to register. Please bring one item to tie-dye.

Be Cool! Learn to Sew!

  Here’s a great idea offered by Joyce Rodenhiser:

  “Would you like to save and have fun? JUST SEW! Come to the Saugus Public Library and learn to sew on the second Monday of the month at 6 P.M. The class is tailored to the needs of the students! We teach basic sewing skills that you can use now! It’s air conditioned and we can do a lot in an hour. Join the JUST SEW class, it’s Free.”

Children’s Picnic 2022 next week

  This news just in from Selectman Debra Panetta, who is president of the Saugus River Watershed Council, which is sponsoring Children’s Picnic 2022. It’s set for next Wednesday, Aug. 3., at 4:30 p.m. at the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site.

  “This free event is lots of fun for kids as well as adults,” Debra said in a recent email. “Live Music from the Squeeze Box Stompers. There will be Games, Food, Drinks, and Prizes. All Welcome.”

Grand Knights Banquet in September

  The Saugus Knights of Columbus Council #1829 is hosting a Grand Knights’ Banquet on Friday, Sept. 9. The event will be held at the Knights of Columbus Hall (57 Appleton St., Saugus), starting at 6 p.m. This event is to recognize all past Grand Knights, but it’s in special recognition of Former Grand Knight Chris Luongo for his devotion to charity and the Saugus Community.

  The Knights of Columbus was founded in 1882 and has 1.9 million members around the world. Core values include integrity, professionalism, excellence and respect. Charity is at the heart of everything we do.

  Everyone is welcome to attend this event! Tickets are $30 each. For more information, please call Richard at 781-858-1117.

Saugus seeks student poll workers

  Town Clerk Ellen Schena’s Office is looking for student election workers. It is a great way for them to learn how their government functions and how important it is to vote. Sixteen-year-old students are eligible to work ½ day (six to eight hours); 17-18 year old students may work a full day (eight to 12 hours). All students can receive community service, which is imperative to them in order to satisfy their high school requirement mandated for graduation – or they can be paid for their hours worked. In addition, the Town Clerk’s Office will gladly write letters of recommendation for National Honor Society, Colleges, etc.

  Interested students can stop by Town Hall or contact the Town Clerk’s Office to apply for work. Ask for Andrew DePatto, the Saugus Election Coordinator. He can be reached at 781-231-4102.

In-Person Early Voting

  Town Election Coordinator Andrew DePatto also wants Saugus residents to know about some important dates coming up, as it relates to In-Person Early Voting for the Sept. 6 State Primary Election. There are several dates when folks can participate in Early Voting at the Saugus Public Library (295 Central St., Taylor Street Entrance):

• Saturday, August 27, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Also, last day to register to vote for September’s Election.)
• Monday, August 29, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Tuesday, August 30, 8:15 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Wednesday, August 31, 8:15 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Thursday, Sept. 1, 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Friday, Sept. 2, 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m.

  This pertinent information regarding early voting is also on the Town of Saugus website under the Town Clerk: https://www.saugus-ma.gov/town-clerk/bulletins/person-early-voting

Food pantry seeks volunteers

  Here’s a message from Pastor Joe Hoyle of the Cliftondale Congregational Church about a collaborative community commitment to help needy Saugus residents:

  “The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry is a partnership between the churches in Saugus to ensure that no one in our community faces food insecurity.

  “With faithful donations and volunteers, we have been able to give out thousands of meals to our neighbors in need throughout the years. The Food Pantry is open every Friday from 9:30am-11am, distributing pre-packaged groceries (including meat and produce) at 50 Essex St.

  “We are always in need of volunteers. If you would like to volunteer or donate, please contact Pastor Joe Hoyle, Executive Director at office@clindalecc.org or 781-233-2663.”

Compost site now open

  The community’s compost site will be open to residents on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The site is located behind the Department of Public Works at 515 Main St.

  Stickers are required to gain seasonal access to the site. Stickers may be purchased for $25.00 at the Department of Public Works (DPW) located at the Compost Site when making your visit to the Compost Site. The Town of Saugus accepts checks only for payment of the $25.00. No cash will be accepted. Kindly bring a check when visiting. Thank you!

  Compost site stickers must be permanently placed on the lower left corner of residents’ automobile windshields. Vehicles registered out of state are not permitted.

  Yard waste must be disposed of in brown compost bags or open containers. The Town will accept grass clippings, leaves and brush. As in years past, no branches or limbs larger than three inches in diameter are permitted.

  We ask all residents to please wear a mask and maintain and respect social distancing from others while visiting the site. Residents may call Lorna Cerbone at the Solid Waste and Recycling Department at 781-231-4036 with questions or for more information.

Concerts for vets

  Rockin’ 4 Vets presents “Homegrown Rock Concerts” and “Throw Back Thursdays” for New England Vets this summer at the Kowloon Restaurant’s outdoor venue on Route 1 North in Saugus. For tickets and prices, go to immelive.com.

  Home Grown Rock lineup – doors open at 3 p.m. – concert at 4 p.m.

  August: August 7–Ronnie Earl and the Broadcasters; August 14–Rockin the House! Deric Dyer; August 21–James Montgomery–Christine Ohlman; August 28–Veronica Lewis.

  Tribute Bands – doors open at 6 p.m. – concert at 7 p.m.

  August: August 4–Chicago; August 11–What A Fool Believes–Doobie Brothers; August 18–Another Tequila Sunrise–Eagles; August 25–Panorama–The Cars.

  September: September 1–Being Petty–Tom Petty; September 8–Studio Two–The Beatles; September 15–Completely Unleashed–Van Halen.

  If you would like to attend a show, please call Lauren at 617-247-4112. Band photos are available upon request.

More outdoor music at Kowloon

  The Kowloon Restaurant announces their outdoor concert series for July with a variety of live bands at their Route 1 North in Saugus outdoor venue. For tickets call the Kowloon Restaurant at 781-233-0077. July Outdoor Concert Lineup:

  Eric Grant Band: country music band, today (Friday, July 29), 7 to 9 p.m.

  Fevah Dream: dance party band, tomorrow (Saturday, July 30), 7 to 10 p.m.

Buy a brick to honor a Saugus veteran

  The Saugus War Monument Committee once again is sponsoring the Buy A Brick Program to honor all those who have served their country. If you would like to purchase one in the name of someone who is presently serving or has served, in the memory of a loved one, or just for someone from your family, school, etc., the general pricing is $100 for a 4″ X 8″ brick (three lines) and $200 for 8″ X 8″ brick (five lines). Each line is a maximum of 15 characters. The improvement and upkeep of the monument on the corner of Winter and Central Streets rely on the generosity of donors through fundraising.

  The brick application must be in by Sept. 15 to ensure the bricks will be ready for Veterans Day. Please contact Corinne Riley at 781-231-7995 for more information and applications.

SHS Class of ’62 plans 60th reunion

  Leaders of the Saugus High School Class of 1962 would like you to “SAVE THE DATE.” Their 60th Class Reunion will be held on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022, from 1 to 5 p.m. at Prince Pizzeria in Saugus. They are reaching out to contact fellow classmates as well as other alumni who would like to join them.

  The well-known 50’s and 60’s music group of Howie Conley will be there for musical enjoyment. Those of you who have heard them know what a performance they put on. There will be pizza and salad combinations plus soft drinks. The price includes all you can eat, tax and gratuities – plus Howie Conley’s group – and is $29 per person. There is a bar available for wine, beer and mixed drinks.

  There is no need to purchase tickets at this time. Please let one of the following people know of your interest either by a phone call or a text message so that you can be easily reached when the time draws near. No commitment is necessary. They are just exploring the number of interested classmates.

• Donna “Cann” Olivera – 781-987-4308
• Jonni “Giantonio” Matrona – 781-439-4200
• Janice “Cristiano” Pomeroy – 617-512-2097
• Larry Seavers – 704-906-2606

Looking for book donations

  The New Friends of the Saugus Public Library are asking for donations of gently used adult hardcover and softcover fiction for the ongoing book sale in the Community Room. They would also appreciate donations of gently used children’s books.

  Please limit donations at this time to only fiction and children’s books; they do not have storage space for other genres or media. Please…clean and newer books only; no tattered pages, bad odors, stains or dirty covers!

  Books may be dropped off at the Main Circulation Desk during business hours. Please do not place donations in the outdoor book drops.

Want to be a Knight?

  The Knights of Columbus is looking for new members to join. If you are interested in becoming a member of this local organization, please call 781-233-9858.

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 nearly six 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.

CONTEST SKETCH OF THE WEEK

 

GUESS WHO GOT SKETCHED! If you know the right answer, you might win the contest. 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 identifies the Saugonian sketched in this week’s paper 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’ in the Food Court at the Saugus Square One Mall. 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”)