SAUGUS – The Board of Selectmen honored Stephanie Puracchio and Joan Fowler Tuesday night for their service to the Town as they move toward retirement.
The Board first called Puracchio up to thank her for her time.
“She has done incredible work for our Town over the years. Not only has she worked as the clerk for the Board of Appeals, but she’s worked as the clerk for the Conservation Commission. She’s volunteered her time on many different things within town,” Board Chair Debra Panetta said.
Selectman Corinne Riley congratulated Purrachio on her retirement, saying that she had stepped up and done more than what most would be willing to do.
“I hope you don’t shut the door on ever coming back and helping us out when we’re short-handed. You’re a great asset to the Town,” Selectman Anthony Cogliano said.
Selectman Michael Serino thanked Puracchio for all of her help, saying, “You were always pleasant and helpful to me when I needed something.”
Vice Chair Jeff Cicolini said that Puracchio has left some big shoes to fill and that the Board appreciates everything she has done.
Before reading the citation, Panetta said there would never be a “complete replacement.”
Next, Fowler was called up to receive her citation and hear from the Board.
“We’re very fortunate to have Joan Fowler in our community. Just like Stephanie, she continues to go over and above. She’s been on the conservation commission for the past 22 years (and) chairman for many of those years, Town Meeting member for 10 years, and you could see her at all the different functions,” Panetta said.
Riley said she has known Fowler for many years, and she remembered how they’d be in Zoom meetings, and Fowler would always be “knitting away.” She then thanked her for all her work.
“We go back to the days of the CB Radio. I remember you were always on the CB, just throughout the town, and all your dedication. It’s certainly appreciated,” Cogliano said.
Serino noted that he knows how much work went into Fowler’s time on the Conservation Commission, as he once served on it, saying that she did a “spectacular job.”
“Safe to say that I’ve known you my entire life,” Cicolini said. His mother was a friend of Fowler’s. “As I grew, I watched all the service that you did in our town. Truly amazing.”
Panetta then gave Fowler her citation.
