Community at steak in Saugus

SAUGUS – It wasn?t an easy year in Saugus, so a cookout at Town Hall Friday afternoon was just the way to let everyone relax, have fun and enjoy each other?s company.Town Manager Scott Crabtree said his administration organized this cookout four years ago for town employees to kick off the summer, show appreciation and build a sense of community.According to co-organizer Lisa DeDomenico, administrative assistant for the Board of Health, 70 people from several departments were represented: police and fire; clerk?s office; treasurer?s; town manager?s; accounting; human resources; inspectional services; maintenance; and Department of Public Works. Finance Committee, Board of Selectmen; Saugus Cable Television Station and Town Meeting members were also in attendance.Food was donated by J. Pace and Son in Saugus, and employees brought the side dishes potluck-style. Firefighter Anthony Arone and First Class Weddings out of Wakefield provided music. Many employees brought along their families.?After a tough year in the town, (Crabtree) wanted to get all departments together for a camaraderie to have fun and enjoy each other?s company outside of work,” DeDomenico said.?Appreciation is the key component today,” Crabtree said. “We want people to make sure they know their hard work is recognized.”Deputy Fire Chief Mike Newbury said the cookout helps to boost morale.?We work together on a day-to-day basis, but it?s nice to get all the departments together outside of the workforce,” Newbury said. “It?s a nice way to kick off the summer, which began Sunday.”Fire Chief Don McQuaid said it was nice to see everyone outside of work. He and Newbury played cornhole sporting the name ?Team Blaze? against civilians and other town employees.?I have to warm-up and practice,” McQuaid joked. “I come to Town Hall often and everyone always treats me well.”Selectman Mark Mitchell said the cookout enhances his and the other members? jobs, and makes them feel as if they?re part of a team.?Everyone seems to be having a good time,” Mitchell said, scanning the crowd. “The town manager organizing this shows that he cares about this group of people.”Selectman Jennifer D?Eon said it?s good to show appreciation for all they do throughout the year.?It?s great to show thanks to all the town employees for their hard work,” D?Eon said. “I hope everyone enjoys their summer vacation. I can?t wait to go fishing.”Selectman Jeffrey Cicolini said it was a nice day to get together and relax for a few hours.?I think it?s excellent that we are letting everyone know that we appreciate their hard work,” Cicolini said.