The Sounds of Saugus

Good Morning, Saugus!

 

  A few town officials I spoke with last week said they heard that allegations related to “misappropriation of funds” is the reason why Superintendent Erin McMahon had been placed on paid administrative leave. But they were not members of the School Committee – including the chair, Vincent Serino, who refused to even confirm that she was on paid leave until the five returned from an Executive Session at last Thursday (Jan. 19) night’s School Committee meeting.

  While it appears that the School Committee members met in Executive Session to discuss confidential matters pertinent to the decision to relieve the superintendent of her duties indefinitely while an investigation is going on, there wasn’t any reference to the situation on the meeting agenda. The agenda listed the two items being discussed in the Executive Session as “a. Contract negotiations” and “b. To discuss strategy with respect to pending litigation.” These items obviously don’t apply to the superintendent.

  All Serino’s statement did was confirm the rampant rumors that the superintendent is indeed on paid leave while the committee awaits the results of a so-called investigation. Serino didn’t say who was investigating the superintendent or how a decision was reached to put McMahon on leave. Was it the full committee’s call or a decision that the chair made on his own? And if allegations about the superintendent was the reason for the Executive Session, there was no reference to that, the way the agenda was worded.

  For her part, the superintendent said she wasn’t aware of the specific nature of the allegations. Yet, she made a comment that appeared related to questions being raised about the fiscal management of Saugus Public Schools:

  “The district’s financial records are audited every year by independent CPAs who have never reported to me that the school department should change or adjust any practices,” the superintendent said.

  “While I have not yet been provided with any specific allegations made against me, any allegations of wrongdoing on my part are false,” she added, naming two attorneys who are handling her case.

  The superintendent also mentioned that she “voluntarily stepped back” from her duties on Jan. 17, pending the completion of the investigation.

  Stay tuned.

“Saugus Over Coffee” for Precinct 1 residents

  The public education project called “Saugus Over Coffee” – co-sponsored by The Saugus Advocate and the Saugus Public Library – gets underway on Monday (Jan. 30) at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the library. And this will be a special night for civic-minded Precinct 1 residents who want to express their views on major challenges or issues facing their neighborhoods.

  First, they will get to hear their Town Meeting members talk about their chief neighborhood concerns during the forum. Anyone who is considering running for a Town Meeting seat will also be allowed to share their views. Then residents will have an opportunity to express themselves.

We will try to keep a running tally of all the concerns mentioned during the forum to determine how prevalent those concerns are.

  The forum will be videotaped by SaugusTV for public viewing at a later date. The forum is open to any town residents. But only Precinct 1 residents will be allowed to speak.

  And if any of the residents feel uncomfortable about having their comments videotaped, they can submit their concerns in writing at the forum – or email them to me at mvoge@comcast.net.

  Coffee, tea and refreshments will be served at 6:10 during an informal social gathering where Precinct 1 residents will get an opportunity to meet their Town Meeting members and Town Meeting members will get to meet people they represent.

  Residents who are unable to get down to the library Monday night to watch the forum will have an opportunity to view it on SaugusTV. Residents can check the programming guide on the station’s website (www.saugustv.org) for dates and times. A video of the forum will also be available for viewing on the station’s vimeo page within a day or two after the event (www.vimeo.com/saugustelevision).

  A similar Monday night forum will be held monthly, spotlighting each of the other precincts now through October. Precinct 2 residents will have a chance to express their views at a forum scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 13.

  It’s been my observation in the past town election years that folks don’t get to learn much about all of the candidates running for the 50 seats on the Annual Town Meeting – Saugus’s very own Legislature. Now, they will. And the candidates running for selectmen of School Committee will get to hear the top neighborhood concerns of Saugus residents.

  For those folks who attend, please keep in mind that this is not a debate. It is an opportunity for citizens who live in Precinct 1 to share their concerns with Town Meeting members and other town officials. It’s also a chance for people who participate to get to know their precinct better and to learn what makes it unique and special compared to other precincts throughout the town.

  Here is the full schedule:

  Precinct 1 – Jan. 30

  Precinct 2 – Feb. 13

  Precinct 3 – March 13.

  Precinct 4 – April 17

  Precinct 5 – May 8

  Precinct 6 – June 12

  Precinct 7 – July 10

  Precinct 8 – August 14

  Precinct 9 – Sept. 11

  Precinct 10 – Oct. 23

  Please check with The Saugus Advocate or library for any changes in dates.

Comedy at the Kowloon

  The Kowloon Restaurant has set its January comedy lineup with talent featuring Tony V. Here’s the lineup: Tony V today (Friday, January 27). Tickets are $20 and showtime is 8 p.m. at the Kowloon Restaurant, Route 1 North in Saugus. For tickets, call the Kowloon Restaurant at 781-233-0077.

 

Bingo is back!

  The Kowloon Restaurant announces Bingo every Wednesday, 7 to 9 p.m., in the Hong Kong Lounge. Prizes will be given away each week with a grand prize set at the finale in March.

A full Chinese gourmet spread is available during Bingo – featuring pupu platters, egg rolls, crab Rangoons, Saugus Wings, General Gau’s chicken, lobster sauce, fried scallops, lo mein, moo shi pork, salt and pepper calamari and sushi – along with a full bar menu, including the signature mai tais and scorpion bowls.

 

Celebrating the Saugus High band

  The Saugus Historical Society is planning its spring season of programs and a new exhibit which will open in March. The exhibit will feature Saugus High School band memorabilia from several time periods and some color day posters recently donated to the society. Anyone who was a band member at any time, or who had an ancestor who was a band member, is invited to share some of their memories. Please call Saugus Historical Society President Laura Eisener at 781-231-5988 to share your story.

  “We are looking for some anecdotes and stories from people involved in Saugus High School Band at any time,” Laura says.

  “The Historical Society is putting together a display of band uniforms, parents’ jackets, photos etc. which will be ready by the first meeting in the Spring,” she said.

  Laura can be reached at 781-231-5988.

 

Craft Fair and Flea Market

  The Knights of Columbus Council 1829 will host an indoor craft fair and flea market on Saturday, Feb. 18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 57 Appleton St., Saugus. A snow date has been set for Feb. 25. Vendors/Table cost: $25. There will be refreshments, a cash bar and raffles. To reserve a table or obtain more information, please call Paul Giannetta at 978-239-1392.

Food Pantry

  The Saugus United Parish Food Pantry is open today (Friday, January 27) from 9:30-11 a.m.

“Shout Outs” to Senior Center volunteers

  We didn’t receive any reader recommendations this week to recognize people doing good things for the betterment of Saugus. So, I will use editorial discretion by calling for a mega “Shout Out” for the crew of volunteers that keep things working at the Senior Center.

 

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.

Stumped by The Sketch Artist

  We had no winners in last week’s “Guess Who Got Sketched” contest. Here’s last week’s answer, offered by the person who goes by the name of The Sketch Artist:

  “The answer to last week’s sketch is the Baptist Reverend Leroy Mahoney and First Lady Natavia Mahoney.

  “The Reverend and First Lady Natavia offer great hospitality at the First Baptist church (FBC) 105 Main Street Saugus, Ma. 01906 (781-231-1690) FBCS@FirstBaptistSaugus.org.

  “The Ministry goes beyond the four walls out into the world with their countless outreaches and ministries.

  “Reverend Mahoney’s and his guest speakers for Sunday Sermons at 11:00 are available to participate in live and also as a later viewing on the FBC web site.

  “Scrolling on their website brings you to Faith Family Fellowship -About us

  “‘The First Baptist Church (FBC) is a church where all are welcome to come learn more about the Father (God) the Son (Jesus) and the Holy Spirit.’

  “FBC Saugus website tells of how they welcome all to come to learn about God and not only be taught but to live it out every day. They believe in building up the people of God to where God wants us to be. A church who lives and grows their children. A church that when you visit, you cannot help but feel the Spirit of God in a loving family atmosphere.

  “It definitely describes accurately! It’s such a welcoming presence and I felt right at home upon a visit 🙂

  “When entering the church you are met with welcomingly hospitality and big warm genuine smiles and a peaceful atmosphere.

  “Reverend Leroy offers various Ministries and outreaches throughout the year.

  “Recently January 14, they generously presented a basic Computer Class and internet safety class and lunch and free refurbished laptops at their church.

  “They do a Monthly community outreach of ‘Can We Talk’ Community Conversations on trauma and Healing.

  “A group where they offer a meal first and then gather around to talk, and have a councilor on hand if anyone needs confidential discussion as well. Anyone for any reason is welcome to participate. This Group Starts at 6:00 first Thursday of the month in the Reverend Isaac Mitchell Fellowship Hall.

  “Reverend Leroy and Natavia and their staff of Ministers; Reverend Edward Bernard, Reverend Ulysses Bernard Stroud, Minister Letitia Stroud, Minister Robyn Monique Mars, Minister Maria Barron, and Minister Ernest Dudley IV continue spreading hope, love and their hospitality and outreaches throughout cities and Towns. They have touched Saugonians and beyond in so many numerous quiet ways as Beacons of lights through outstretched hands and rolled up sleeves of hands-on Ministries.

  “Thankyou

  “Yours Truly,

  “The Sketch Artist”

Legion breakfasts on Friday mornings

  Saugus American Legion Post 210 hosts its popular breakfasts from 8-9 a.m. on Fridays. The Legion requests a donation of $8 from those who are looking for a delicious meal at Legion Hall. The Legion also welcomes veterans who can’t afford the meal to enjoy a free breakfast. Bon appétit!

Compost/Recycling Drop-Off Site Closing for Winter

  The Town of Saugus Compost/Recycling Drop-Off Site closed for the winter season on Dec. 10. The site will reopen for recycling on the third Saturday of the month in February and March, weather permitting. The dates are Saturday, February 18, and Saturday, March 18, 2023, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Please contact Scott Brazis, Director of Solid Waste/Recycling, at 781-231-4036 with any questions. For more information about the Town of Saugus, visit

www.saugus-ma.gov.

What’s happening at the Saugus Public Library

  For schoolchildren looking for interesting projects and programs to participate in this fall, there’s plenty to do at the Saugus Public Library. There are also some very good programs offered for grownups, too.

  Dragon Eye: On Tuesday, Feb. 7, from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. in the Community Room, children in Grades 5 and up will be able to sculpt a dragon eye that’s fierce or friendly, using a glass eye, air dry clay and metallic paint – and, if time allows, to make a dragon egg. Please register in advance. Call 781-231-4168 or visit our Events Calendar (http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/ekform.cfm?curOrg=SAUGUS&curName=2023/02/07_Dragon_Eye).

  Join our Teen Advisory Board: first Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Teen Room; fifth grade and up. Meet with the Teen Librarian once a month to talk about what you’d like for programs and materials at the library. Your opinion matters! No registration required. Snacks provided! sauguspubliclibrary.org – 781-231-4168.

  Just Sew! Saugonians are welcome to join a monthly sewing class for adults that is held on the third Monday of each month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Community Room of the Saugus Public Library. The class will cover basic topics like sewing buttons, hemming clothing and mending torn fabric and will move on to more advanced topics in the coming weeks. This class is free. (See sauguspubliclibrary.org)

  A neat teen group called Manga & Anime Club: The Manga & Anime Club, from all accounts, is a lot of fun for kids in Grades 6 and up. So, if you are curious, check out the Teen Room. Chat with friends! Make crafts! Try Japanese snacks! Club meetings will continue on Saturdays, through May, from 10-11 a.m. They will be held on Feb. 4, March 4, April 1 and May 13. Please sign up in advance; call 781-231-4168 or stop by the Reference Desk (https://www.sauguspubliclibrary.org/new-manga-anime-club…/).

  —Saugus Public Library, 295 Central St., Saugus, Mass.

First Baptist Church presents “Can We Talk…”

  First Baptist Church Pastor Leroy Mahoney invites troubled people to join others in a special program called “Can We Talk … Community conversations on Trauma and Healing” the first Thursday of every month, from 6 to 7 p.m. at Rev. Isaac Mitchell Jr. Fellowship Hall (105 Main St. in Saugus). “Join us as we gather in community to share our stories, thoughts and feelings about whatever you are going through,” Rev. Mahoney states in a written announcement.

  “As always, it is a safe space to come together in community,” he says.

Scholarship available to Saugus High students

  Greater Lynn Senior Services (GLSS) is accepting applications from high school seniors through the Lique Human Services Scholarship. Two $5,000 scholarships will be awarded to students who have an interest in or are considering a career in human services and who have made an impact in their community or the world through community service. The Lique Human Services Scholarship will be awarded to two seniors who attend one of the eight high schools located in GLSS’ service area – including Saugus High School.

  The scholarship is named in memory of Vince Lique, the Agency’s long-time Executive Director, who devoted his career to helping others, particularly vulnerable senior citizens and people of all ages with disabilities, demanding that all people be treated with dignity and respect.

  “Vince’s legacy is firmly rooted in his compassion for people. He measured success by

the quality of his service to and advocacy for others,” said Kathryn C. Burns, GLSS’

Chief Executive Officer. “I believe in Vince’s theory that one’s individual success is directly related to the benefits received by those around us. The Lique Human Services scholarship honors the man and his service by encouraging others to do the same.”

  Applications are available through each high school’s guidance office or can be completed online at www.glssnet/LiqueScholarship. Completed applications are due on or before Friday, April 7.

 

Local author publishes on Amazon

  Brunislaw (Benji) Wozniak, a Lynn resident and member of Sharon’s Sneaker Crew out of Saugus, recently published a book on Amazon. His book – “Hodge-Podge: Short Stories and Poems” – centers around historical locations in Lynn, such as Dungeon Rock.

Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus

  (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.)

  Who we are: Healthy Students-Healthy Saugus (HS2) is a nonprofit group of volunteers who are helping to offset food insecurity in households. HS2 provides students/families who 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 Saugus Public Schools on Fridays to take home. Bags include such items as peanut butter, canned meals/soups/tuna/vegetables, pasta, fruit cups, cereal, oatmeal, goldfish, pretzels and granola bars. 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. To sign up go here to complete online form: https://forms.gle/gmMGguycSHBdziuE9

  Want to partner with us: We would love to partner with organizations, sports teams, 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

  HS2 relies on donations to create take-home bags for a weekend full of meals. 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

About The Saugus Advocate

  We welcome press releases, news announcements, freelance articles and courtesy photos from the community. Our deadline is noon Wednesday. If you have a story idea, an article or photo to submit, please email me at mvoge@comcast.net, or leave a message at 978-683-7773. 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.

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 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 National Historic Site.

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’s being sketched this week? If you do, please email me at mvoge@comcast.net or leave a phone message at 978-683-7773. Anyone who identifies the Saugonian sketched in this week’s paper between now and Tuesday at Noon 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 Hammersmith Family Restaurant at 330 Central St. in Saugus. 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”)