MALDEN CITY COUNCIL ROUNDUP: Councillor Spadafora proposes increasing owner-occupied homeowner tax break; Council approves special permit for new Malden Sq. cannabis retailer City Assessor will make a future presentation on how proposed increase from 30% to 35% of an exemption would affect taxpayers, city finances By Steve Freker M alden could possibly join the cities of Somerville and Boston and become the third community statewide to offer the highest property tax break allowed by state law for owner-occupied residences. Councillor-at-Large Craig Spadafora at the most recent Malden City Council meeting offered a resolution calling for the city to raise its owner-occupied property tax exemption from 30% to 35% for the next rate-setting fiscal period. The residential exemption is a reduction in real estate taxes for all those homeowners who occupy their property as their principal residence. The residential exemption amount is a reduction of a given percentage of the average assessed value of single-family residential properties. The property tax rate is set Councillor-at-Large Craig Spadafora has proposed that Malden increase its residential exemption on property value and taxes from 30% to 35%. (Courtesy/City of Malden) Malden Board of Assessors Chairperson Nate Kramer is now working on a presentation for a future City Council meeting where he could lay out the potential effects of a residential exemption. (Courtesy/City of Malden) BABY, IT'S COLD OUTSIDE! by municipal governing bodies and is announced near the end of each calendar year after a public hearing. Malden’s property tax rate for residential properties is $11.33 per $1,000 of assessed value. Malden is one of only 17 communities that consistently approve – through their elected officials – of the residential exemptions. Some of the others are Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Chelsea, Marlboro, Nantucket, Somerset, Somerville, Tisbury, Waltham and Watertown. The communities differ with respect to the percentages of residential exemptions. Boston and Somerville have set their residential exemption percentages at 35%, the highest allowed. The other municipalities, including Malden, are at 30% for the residential exemption. Spadafora said the prime reason he was promoting this change “is to discourage absenROUNDUP | SEE PAGE 8 Free Tickets to Mayor’s 2025 State of the City Address F ree tickets to Mayor Gary Christenson’s 2025 State of the City Address being held on Tuesday, March 4 from 8-9 a.m. at Anthony’s at 105 Canal St. will be allocated on a first come, first served basis and will be required for admittance. Attendees should plan to arrive between 7:30-7:45 a.m. for a prompt 8 a.m. start of the presentation. Due to capacity, seating will be limited. Please RSVP for your tickMalden and the entire Northeast has been in the midst of one of the coldest winters in recent years. Since Winter officially began on December 21, only ONE day has a temperature of 40 degrees, 11 days in the 30s and the rest in the 20s and teens. This week, the temperatures already have dipped to 9 and 11 degrees, with a wind chill BELOW ZERO Monday and Tuesday. Here we see that "Pichu" is dressed well for the weather, seen in Malden Square along with his "Mama" Hui Cheng. Let's look forward to warmer weather ASAP! (Advocate Photo) et at https://www.eventbrite. com/e/mayor-gary-christensons-state-of-the-city-2025-tickets-1247176381129?aff=oddtdtcreator For admittance into the event, please have your ticket printed out or have the QR code ready to be scanned on your phone. For residents unable to attend in person, the event will be recorded by Urban Media Arts (UMA) and subsequently broadcast on Public Access Television and UMA’s YouTube channel. We hope you will join us as we come together to celebrate Malden’s resilience, achievements and the path forward.
Page 2 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 Maldonians running for the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge team Raising funds for cancer research at Dana-Farber Special to The Advocate O n April 21, two Malden residents, Michael Bryant and Laura Stucchi, are running to defy cancer as a member of the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge (DFMC) team in the 129th Boston Marathon®: Along with more than 500 DFMC teammates from across the United States and around Need a hall for your special event? The Schiavo Club, located at 71 Tileston Street, Everett is available for your Birthdays, Anniversaries, Sweet 16 parties and more? For more info, call (857) 249-7882 8 Norwood St. Everett (617) 387-9810 Open Tues. - Sat. at 4:00 PM Closed Sun. & Mon. Announcing our Classic Specials Dine In Only: * FREE Salad with purchase of Entree, Tuesdays & Wednesdays * Cheese Pizza - Only $10 Catch ALL The Live Sports Action On Our Large Screen TV’s Scan & Follow Us on Facebook! the world, they will run Massachusetts’ historic marathon route from Hopkinton to Boston to collectively raise $8.5 million for cancer research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. This year marks the 36th annual running of the DFMC. One hundred percent of the money raised by the DFMC team benefits Dana-Farber’s Claudia Adams Barr Program in Innovative Basic Cancer Research, which supports promising science research in its earliest stages. DFMC has raised more than $132 million for the Barr Program to date. In 1990, Dana-Farber was among the first charity organizations to be recognized by the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.), which organizes the Boston Marathon. The DFMC team offers its members extensive fundraising support, training guidance from 1976 Boston Marathon Men’s Open Division Champion Jack Fultz and team training runs. DFMC runners who are not time-qualified for the Boston Marathon receive an invitational entry into the race. Laura Stucchi proudly ran the 2024 Boston-Half Marathon with team Dana-Farber and will join 500 DFMC teammates in April to run the 129th Boston Marathon®. (Courtesy photo) Runners include cancer survivors and patients and family and friends of those who have been affected by cancer. Each team member must fulfill a basic fundraising commitment: • Invitational runners – runners who receive their entry from Dana-Farber have a minimum fundraising commitment of $10,000. • Own entry runners – runners who have joined the DFMC after obtaining their own race entry have a fundraising commitment of $4,000. To contribute to the DFMC, visit RunDFMC.org or contact the DFMC office at 617-6321970 or dfmc@ dfci.harvard.edu. Follow DFMC on Facebook at www.facebook/ marathonchallenge and on X at #RunDFMC. About the Claudia Adams Barr Program in Innovative Basic Cancer Research Since its incepwww.810bargrille.com After running in the 128th Boston Marathon, Michael Bryant will once again join the DFMC team in this year’s marathon to defy cancer. (Courtesy photo) tion in 1990, the DFMC has raised more than $132 million for this program. Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Trustees J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver founded the program in 1987 to honor Mrs. Weaver’s mother, Claudia Adams Barr, who had lost her battle with cancer 30 years earlier. About Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Dana-Farber is one of the world’s leading centers of cancer research and treatment. The mission of Dana-Farber is to reduce the burden of cancer through scientific inquiry, clinical care, education, community engagement, and advocacy. Dana-Farber is a federally designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and a teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School, providing the latest treatments in cancer for adults through Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center and for children through Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center. Dana-Farber is the only hospital nationwide with a top 4 U.S. News & World Report Best Cancer Hospital ranking in both adult and pediatric care. As a global leader in oncology, Dana-Farber is dedicated to a unique and equal balance between cancer research and care, translating the results of discovery into new treatments for patients locally and around the world, offering more than 1,100 clinical trials.
THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 Page 3 Councillors: Turn surplus city-owned property into affordable housing units Proposal to convert former Malden Courthouse, Oak Grove Community Center to residential use amps up Council meeting By Steve Freker T he temperature rose considerably in the Herbert L. Jackson Council Chambers at Malden City Hall at the last City Council meeting, and it had nothing to do with the thermostat. When all the debate on what turned out to be a very thorny topic simmered down, several City Councillors agreed to disagree regarding the fate of a pair of iconic Malden edifices. Also, every elected official in the room concurred on the one overlying dilemma: How does this city go about addressing what many believe is fast becoming the #1 issue in the city, lack of affordable housing. “We’ve had two major changes shoved us at us on short notice in the past year and we had to change all our zoning laws due to mandates on ADUs [accessory dwelling units] and MBTA-related zoning,” said Malden Councillor-at-Large Craig Spadafora at the February 11 Council meeting. “It is not equitable for a community like Malden to have to go through this when we are trying to address affordable housing,” Councillor Spadafora added. “Through all of this, I have heard the word ‘crisis’ 15 times.” At that meeting, Spadafora and cosponsor Paul Condon (Ward 2) put forth a resolution calling for the City of Malden to start designating surplus property for conversion to affordable housing. Spadafora and Condon stated in the resolution that the city could start with the former Malden Courthouse building on Summer Street and the Oak Grove Community Center located at the corner of Winter and Washington Streets. Both buildings have been the center of hopeful renovation projects, with the former Malden District Court building for the past three years sitting vacant, while still being considered as the site of a future Arts and Culture center in the city. The Oak Grove Comfor luxuries [like an arts center]. “We talk about affordable The Oak Grove Community Building was built in 1927 and is located at 6 Wyoming St. in Malden. (Courtesy Photo) The former Malden District Courthouse, built in 1922, has been vacant for six years and was sold to the City of Malden by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in 2020 for $480,000. (Courtesy Photo) munity Center, a much smaller structure, has also been at the center of renovation speculation. The issue at this time, Councillor Spadafora said, is that the cost to renovate the Courthouse building is rapidly escalating. “Both of these buildings have been vacant for years and both are near the MBTA,” Spadafora said. “We always talk about affordable housing, here’s a way we can do it.” Councillor Condon agreed. “It’s simply a choice. We can have an arts center or affordable housing for 10-12 families. That’s an easy answer.” “I have heard $12 million [to renovate] the Courthouse, just to make it safe and usable as an arts center. If there’s $12 million in our city for that? Show us!” Spadafora said. “It’s not that I don’t like the arts, but I’m not laying off teachers. I’m not laying off firefighters. We aren’t talking about putting a Chevalier auditorium like Medford has in there,” the longtime Councillor added. “I’m not going to ask our residents to dig deeper for three years and then ask housing out both sides of our mouths but it’s going to come down to money and our budget. I don’t know if it’s this year or next. But this is an option,” Spadafora said. When Spadafora started to get pushback from other Councillors on his proposal, he said, “That’s fine. Let’s table this for five months and then see what happens.” A motion to that effect failed by a 7-3 vote. What did eventuHOUSING | SEE PAGE 17 RON’S OIL Call For PRICE MELROSE, MA 02176 NEW CUSTOMER’S WELCOME ACCEPTING VISA, MASTERCARD & DISCOVER (781) 397-1930 OR (781) 662-8884 100 GALLON MINIMUM
Page 4 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 Rep. Lipper-Garabedian joins Mass. Caucus of Women Legislators Leadership Board for 2025-2026 Session Lawrence A. Simeone Jr. Special to The Advocate Attorney-at-Law ~ Since 1989 ~ * Corporate Litigation * Criminal/Civil * MCAD * Zoning/Land Court * Wetlands Litigation * Workmen’s Compensation * Landlord/Tenant Litigation * Real Estate Law * Construction Litigation * Tax Lien * Personal Injury * Bankruptcy * Wrongful Death * Zoning/Permitting Litigation 300 Broadway, Suite 1, Revere * 781-286-1560 lsimeonejr@simeonelaw.net A t the start of Massachusetts’ current legislative session, the Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators (MCWL) appointed its new Board of Directors. State Representative Kate Lipper-Garabedian (D-Melrose) has been selected as an At-Large Board member for the 20252026 legislative session. This announcement comes as the Caucus prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of advancing gender equity, enhancing economic opporCelebrating 51 Years! Dan - 1972 We Sell Cigars & Accessories! Chris 2023 * Travel Humidors * Desk Top Humidors * Many Types of Lighters * Ash Trays * Juuls * Glass Pipes * Rewards Program * CBD Infused Products * GIFTS UNDER $30 - GIFT CERTIFICATES ALL MAJOR BRANDS Singles * Tins * Bundles * Boxes SMOKER’S DELIGHT! 15 HANDMADE CIGARS! Four-Year-Old Tobacco * 100% Long Filler * Cellophane $49.95 STORE HOURS: OPEN DAILY Monday thru Sunday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM R.Y.O. TOBACCO & TUBES ON SALE! Humidor Special! Model A holds up to 25 cigars incl. ash tray, humidifier, hygrometer, cigar cutter and leather pocket holder! Special Price! $99.95 WE MAKE HOUSE KEYS! A.B.C. CIGAR 170 REVERE ST., REVERE (781) 289-4959 tunity and supporting women in government. The Caucus conducted a thorough and intentional process, led by its Nominating Committee, to select the 2025-2026 Board members. “I am honored to have been selected as a 2025-2026 At-Large Board Member for the Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators, a caucus I have been a member of since joining the House,” said Representative Lip11 senators, reflect the bipartisan and bicameral strength of the Caucus, which remains committed to improving the quality of life for all residents of the Commonwealth. The Caucus remains steadfast in its strategic priorities – elevating women’s economic opportunity and eliminating barriers, addressing racial and gender disparities in health care and empowering women in government. Local student named to Dean’s Honor Roll at Wichita State University W ichita State University has announced the names of 3,865 students who were on the WSU Dean’s Honor Roll for fall 2024. To be included on the dean’s honor roll, a student must be enrolled full time (at least 12 credit hours) and earn at least a 3.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale. Maldonian Diya Khorja Pun achieved this honor. About Wichita State University: WSU is Kansas’ only urban public research university, enrolling more than 23,000 students between its main campus and WSU Tech, including students from every state in the USA and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven. Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the USA of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), WSU provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all students. Kate Lipper-Garabedian State Representative per-Garabedian. “I look forward to working with my fellow board and Caucus members to elevate and enhance the status of women and all residents of the Commonwealth.” Founded in 1975, the Caucus has grown from its original 14 members to over 61 legislators, including 56 Democrats, 4 Republicans, and 1 Unenrolled member. These members, comprising 50 representatives and
THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 Page 5 Malden Reads Book Discussion with Mayor Christenson J oin Mayor Gary Christenson on Wednesday, February 26 at 6:30 p.m. in the Malden Public Library’s Ryder Art Gallery to discuss “The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind: Creating Currents of Electricity and Hope,” the book selected for the 2025 Malden Reads community read. There will be light refreshments offered beforehand and a Zoom option will be available. “The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind” by inventor William Kamkwamba and Byran Mealer has been hailed as “a moving and exciting story” by former Vice President Al Gore. This inspiring memoir aims to bring the Malden community together to explore themes of innovation, sustainability and the power of perseverance. Malden Reads will use “The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind” to spark meaningful conversations about sustainability and innovation. Through partnerships with community groups, Malden Reads will explore themes such as water conservation, gardening for food sources and the importance of teaching science to the next generation. Malden Reads invites the community to not only read William Kamkwamba’s story but to reflect on its relevance to our own lives. Together, we can explore how we might bring positive change to our city and beyond, supporting both human and environmental well-being. Additional programming can be found on the Malden Reads website (www.maldenreads. org). SABATINO/MASTROCOLA INSURANCE AGENCY 519 BROADWAY EVERETT, MA 02149 Auto * Home * Boat * Renter * Condo * Life * Multi-Policy Discounts * Commercial 10% Discounts * Registry Service Also Available Sabatino Insurance is proud to welcome the loyal customers of ALWAYS READY TO SERVE YOU: Our Staff are, Emma Davidson, Jeimy Sanchez, Josephine Leone, Marie D’Amore, Rocco Longo, Z’andre Lopez, Anthony DiPierro, Darius Goudreau, Laurette Murphy, Danielle Goudreau and Tina Davidson. PHONE: (617) 387-7466 FAX: (617) 381-9186 Visit us online at: WWW.SABATINO-INS.COM
Page 6 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 ~ Malden Musings ~ He’s Back...and Better Than Ever! John A. Fitzpatrick (Fitzy) Sales & Lease Consultant Direct: 617.410.1030 Main: 617.381.9000 Cell: 617.279.9962 jfitzpatrick@mcgovernauto.com McGovern Automotive Group 100 Broadway, Rte. 99, Everett Gerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law Is Your Estate in Order? Do you have an update Will, Health Care Proxy or Power of Attorney? If Not, Please Call for a Free Consultation. 14 Proctor Avenue, Revere (781) 284-5657 Johnny Riccio’s Highland Café J By Peter Levine ohnny Riccio, formerly of 24 Thatcher Street, generously reached back in time to remind future generations of Maldonians that these here streets have a long, rich history. Thank you so much, Johnny, for this contribution... “My grandmother, Margaret Riccio, lived at 26 Thatcher Street and was the sister of a very dapper, well dressed, first generation Italian gentleman named Julius Miola (sometimes spelled Meola). Uncle Julius purchased the ‘Bucket of Blood,’ aka The Highland Café I estimate around 1940. Bank loans were not an option for risky business purchases by first generation Italians, so my grandfather, Vincent Riccio, bankrolled the purchase. Uncle Julie worked hard and quickly to establish the Highland Café as a family restaurant with a dining room, and a segregated men’s bar with a back entrance. My cousin Susie Blaise was the original chef, who gave the Highland Café its famous pizza recipe. Uncle Julie and his wife Mary lived behind the restaurant in a two-family house they owned adjacent to the back parking lot. This arrangement was for convenience and supervision of the business which eventually flourished. The Café was so successful Paul DiPietro, Tommy Fudd Proctor, George W. Bush, Jimmy Cahill, unknown, Sandy Koufax that Uncle Julie was able to buy a house on the Cape and spent most of his time, at least seasonally, by the ocean. I remember, as a teenager, asking my calm, handsome, neatly dressed uncle, ‘Uncle Julie, while you’re away, how do you keep the bartenders from helping themselves at the cash register?’ He adjusted his Frank Sinatra fedora, looked me in the eye and answered ‘They gotta leave something for me or I’ll close up the place!’ My uncle was always philosophical, cool and calm. “One true Highland Café story mixed with both tragedy and glory. It was the day before Thanksgiving in 1959. My 9-year-old older brother Vinny and I were crossing Highland Ave directly in front of the Café. We were on our way to visit our good friends Henry and Paul Gennetti. As Vinny led the way he was hit by a truck and thrown 18 feet in the air, landing face down under a parked car. All I could see were his Converse All Stars sticking out from behind the parked car, with the front door to the Highland as a backdrop. The scene, in my mind, is as indelible as if chiseled in granite. I ran home and told my mother. She buttressed our infant brother on the kitchen table with towels so he couldn’t roll off, and we ran out the door. Mom yelled out [for] my ‘Nonny’ (Italian American for grandmother) to look after the baby. When we got to the scene the police and ambulance were there, and Vinny was in the ambulance. Many — Vinyl Siding — Carpentry Work — Decks — Roofing — Free Estimates — Replacement Windows — Fully Licensed — Fully Insured
THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 Page 7 questions about accident reconstruction needed to be answered. My father was on his way home from Boston but had not yet arrived. Mom and I were escorted into a high back red upholstered booth in the Highland Café and comforted by the staff, who were our friends and relatives. Other neighbors and relatives began to fill the Café along with my father. Vinny, against the odds, and by God’s grace miraculously survived. He went on to graduate college and got married. Of course I can never forget the Highland Café, our home away from home on that bittersweet day. “Peter, thanks for your articles and memories of Edgeworth. My greetings to your brother Joe (a great guy) and Bobby Covelle (a great ball player and my accountant), Henry Gennetti (who I am sure remembers this event) and all the other bocce players at the IACC. I couldn’t have been born into a better neighborhood in 1950s/60s America than Edgeworth. God Bless America.” It is said in “Malden Musings”... • News Flash! Malden Man Discovers Fountain of Youth! Move over, Ponce de León – Malden’s own Richie “Ace” Howard has cracked the code to eternal youth, and he didn’t even have to leave M-Town to do it! The former mayor strolled into the Parking Department on a blustery Monday, looking like he had just stepped out of a time machine set to 1970. With the energy of a young ace taking the mound for Bob Rosano’s Stars in the Babe Ruth League, Richie looked ready to throw heat – and maybe even take on “Broadway” Phil, Mario Pallotta, Brendan Duffy and Joe Levine on the old Y’s handball court. Dressed to impress in a classic trench coat and a stylish scarf, Richie rocked his trademark easy smile, proving that time had nothing on him. A true Malden legend, still in his prime! Great seeing you, big guy – stay forever young, Richie! • Great to see Maldonia MVP Johnny Furlong on the mend and looking fit as a fiddle! Caught up with Johnny at the final session of the Rec Dept’s youth basketball program at Salemwood last Saturday. We talked of time fleeting, NY Knicks (and teammate of John’s at Salem State) Coach Tom Thibodeau, the state of Maldonia, and of better days ahead. Stay well, Furgie. • Bobby McVicar doesn’t want the acclaim, he ain’t one of those “look at me” type guys, but here it is anyhow. Bobby, step right up... Bob McVicar has been quietly supplying the Malden Warming Center with quality (and quantity) foods all season long. Before the holiday season, he made sure there were Thanksgiving turkeys and Christmas hams for 20-plus families in the area. According to reliable sources (thank you, Dana Brown) this was Thursday’s delivery: lasagna, mac & cheese, chicken tenders, turkey breasts, hams, meatballs, cheese, butter, soup, four 12-15-pound pieces of beef, shaved steak and hot chocolate! For 25 guests no less! Fuhgeddaboudit! Enough for a month or more!! Shout out to Costa Foods for their support also! Bobby, thanks for always (quietly) stepping up, bigly! • He’s Butch Russell, and we are not. He’s a Meffa guy (please don’t hold that against him), but he’s spent so much time “socializing” in Malden over the last 50 years he’s morphed into a Maldonia Townie in very good standing (actually, Butchie lives in M-Town these days so he is one of us – gabba, gabba hey!). From learning the law of the land as barkeep at the old Stadium Café/Bambino’s to having his own barstool named after him at the Italian American Citizen’s Club, Butch has endeared himself to both highbrow Maldonians and many of the more lowbrow class that call Maldonia home sweet home (insert smiley face). Next time you see Butch, thank him for his time in the service (actually, our country could really never fully repay or thank him enough for his time spent in service to his country). Thanking Butch is the least we can do for him (or buy him a beer, which might be an even better idea). Love ya, dude. • Kasa at 637 Broadway... What the heck is that place and will it ever open? • In case you ever forget, Superior Gas at 60 Lebanon St. in the heart of beautiful downtown Maplewood Square is, no doubt, one of the very best auto repair shops in this glorious city of ours. My main man Mohammed (Saab) and his brothers are hardworking, engaging and most of all, honest businessmen that – since goodness knows when – I am proud to call acquaintances (and just for the record, Mo is like wicked smaht!). Many was the time I entrusted my vehicles to these hardworking gentlemen and came away smiling; secure in the knowledge that once again they hooked me up, bigly. Thank you, my friends. • Former Malden Cemetery Director, 25 ppg scorer in the old Malden Men’s Rec League, and doting husband to the Fabulous Judy, Jimmy Cahill, how can we miss you if you will not go away. I kid, of course. Stinger, your visits, although short and sporadic, are held near and dear to each and every one of us, and I always look forward to that big hug but not so much when you kiss my head. Stay well, my friend. • Please welcome to Team Malden Grace Tumavicus, our new Outreach Specialist in OSPCD! Fun fact: Two summers ago Grace rode her bike across the country from Oregon to Maine. Hello and way to go, Grace!! As Peter Falk’s iconic TV character Columbo would say, “Just one more thing, sir” – speaking of Jimmy Cahill and the picture that accompanies this article... Alright, let’s set the scene properly... The Atlantic breeze rolls over the fairways of Cape Arundel Golf Club in Kennebunkport, MUSINGS| SEE PAGE 18 If We Happen To Meet By Accident ... You’ll Be Glad You Found Us! There is a difference between the rest and the BEST! Celebrating 46 Years In Business! 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Page 8 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 ROUNDUP | FROM PAGE 1 tee landlords who aren’t doing the right thing.” “We can’t control the value of the houses, but maybe we can incentivize homeowners to stay [in Malden],” Councillor Spadafora said. “We want to also encourage people who do not own a home to become homeowners.” For Malden residents, an increase to a 35% property tax residential exemption from 30% would save the average single-family homeowner about $447 in their annual property tax bill. According to figures supplied by Assessor Nate Cramer at the November 2024 Council public hearing where the members voted to set the FY2025 property tax rate, the average assessed value of a single-family home in Malden was $792,121. Using the 30% owner-occupied residential exemption, that means the average Malden homeowner – with a residence assessed at just under $800,000 – would have a property tax bill of approximately $6,283. If the residential exemption is increased to 35%, the property tax burden for average Malden owner-occupied single-family homes would be reduced to $5,834, a savings of about $447. The non-owner-occupied single-family homeowner would pay $8,975 annually in property tax in Malden. Both Spadafora and Kramer pointed out that the residential exemption, in Malden, does not apply to single-family homes assessed at $1.2 million or more. Kramer reported at the February 11 meeting there are 13 single-family homes valued at $1.2 million or higher and at the November 2024 meeting said there were just 8,000 homes in Malden that did qualify for the residential exemption. Councillor-at-Llarge Carey McDonald, who also serves as the Council’s Finance Committee chairperson, stressed that increasing the residential exemption to 35%, if the Council ultimately goes that route, would not affect municipal revenues. “It’s a zero-sum game. The tax burden would shift to those properties not owner-occupied,” Councillor McDonald said. “I would like to be able to supLawn and Yard Care SNOW PLOWING *REASONABLE RATES * PROMPT SERVICE * PARKING LOTS USA 781-521-9927 MARCHETTI CORP. 46 Years of Excellence!! 1978-2024 Regular Unleaded $2.839 Mid Unleaded $3.379 Super $3.479 Diesel Fuel $3.539 Kerosene Available! HEATING O L IL ULS $4.759 $3.39 9 DEF Call for Current Price! (125—gallon minimum) DEF Available by Pump! 24-Hour Burner Service Open an account and order online at: Trinity Naturals received approval from the Malden City Council at its February 11 meeting to open its second marijuana retail sales location, having already been established in Chelsea. Trinity Naturals’ Chelsea setup creates a preview of how their new Malden location might look. (Courtesy/Trinity Naturals) port it. There’s a lot of lead time to look at it.” Ward 6 Councillor Stephen Winslow said, “It’s worth discussing.” He said, “Some [homeowners’] taxes will go up, others will go down, if the residential exemption rate changes.” “It will be like a seesaw. It might seem easy, but we would be reducing taxes for a lot of people, but raising them for a lot of others,” Winslow said. “It depends on where you are in the seesaw.” The Council has until before the end of the 2025 calendar year to set the FY2026 property tax rate, residential and commercial. It is usually voted on in November. *** City Council approves special permit for new Malden Sq. cannabis retailer The Malden City Council at its Hours: Monday thru Friday 6 AM to 7 PM / Saturdays 7 AM to 5 PM / Sundays 9 AM to 5 PM last regular meeting on February 11 unanimously approved the issuance of a special permit for a new cannabis/marijuana retailer to be located at 36 Charles St., on the close outskirts of Malden Square. Voting unanimously, 100, in favor of granting an amendment to the original special permit – which dates back to 2022 – for DMS Trinity LLC, dba Trinity Naturals, were City Councillors Peg Crowe (Ward 1), Paul Condon (Ward 2), Amanda Linehan (Ward 3), Ari Taylor (Ward 5), Stephen Winslow (Ward 6) and Chris Simonelli (Ward 7) and Councillors-at-Large Carey McDonald, Craig Spadafora and Karen Colón Hayes. Ward 8 Councillor Jadeane Sica was absent from Tuesday’s meeting. Trinity Naturals also operates a marijuana retailer in Chelsea at 270 2nd St. The outfit first applied and was approved for special permit to operate in Malden in 2022. A series of stops and starts in its moves to remodel the interior of the 356 Charles St. building have resulted in a nearly three-year delay, leading up to the February 11 vote of approval. The Councillors voted to approve the special permit as long as the petitioner, Trinity Naturals, adheres to a list of 20 specific conditions suggested by the Malden Planning Board and supported by the City Council. The 20 conditions are as follows: The Planning Board recommends to the City Council approval of the petition to amend the special permit granted in Case #233-23, only provided subject to the following twenty (20) conditions: 1. Peer review petitioner’s Response to Traffic Peer Review Comments dated February 25, 2022 and implement any recommended mitigation. 2. This special permit authorizes marijuana retailer use of only 5,524 SF of the first floor, as per plans, and specifically: 1,676 SF for retail space, 1,455 SF for loading, delivery area and indoor trash storage, and the remainder, approximately 2,393 SF, for vault, accessory offices and common areas. All other areas of the building shall remain vacant and shall be used for no purpose whatsoever, including storage by the marijuana retailer, and any use or occupancy shall require an amendment to this special permit. 3. The loading and delivery area may be used for parking during retail hours. 4. Install bicycle parking onsite for four bicycles, accessible to customers and employees. 5. Repair or replace sidewalks, driveways and perform necessary incidental work, adjacent to the property, to the satisfaction of DPW Director. 6. Implement Transportation Demand Measures regarding rideshare and parking attendant. 7. All development shall be as per plans, including landscaping of the northwest portion of the lot, except as modified by these conditions. 8. The special permit is non-transferable and non-assignable. 9. Design and implement a Security Plan approved by the Malden Police Chief and Malden Cannabis Licensing and Enforcement Commission. 10. Consumption of Marijuana and/or Marijuana Products is prohibited at or within 500 feet. 11. Smoking or burning of Marijuana and/or Marijuana Products is prohibited on the ROUNDUP | SEE PAGE 11 Call Driveways from $35 FLEET Prices subject to change
THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 Page 9 Melrose Arts & Crafts Society R ed newborn hats and baby blankets, made by the Melrose Arts & Crafts Society, were donated on February 12 to the Maternity Ward at MelroseWakefield Hospital. Gina Stuffle, a longtime member of Melrose Arts & Crafts made the delivery in time for Valentine’s Day. The next Regular Meeting of the group is on Monday, February 24, at First Baptist Church (561 Main St. in Melrose) at 9:00 a.m. Two classes will be held that day. One is a jute tray, taught by Sue Camberlain and Carol Strout. The other is a card playing holder taught by Gina Stuffle. There will be a short business meeting when the classes are over. The February24 program will be Jennifer from the UPS store, who will talk about phone and mail fraud. If you have questions or would be interested in joining us, please contact our Membership Chair, Carol Butt, at 781-729-7527. Looking forward to seeing you there!! CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Advocate Call now! 617-387-2200 advertise on the web at www.advocatenews.net 425r Broadway, Saugus Located adjacent to Kohls Plaza Route 1 South in Saugus at the intersection of Walnut Street We are on MBTA Bus Route 429 781-231-1111 We are a Skating Rink with Bowling Alleys, Arcade and two TV’s where the ball games are always on! PUBLIC SKATING SCHEDULE 12-7 p.m. Sunday Monday Tuesday $10.00 Price includes Roller Skates Rollerblades/inline skates $3.00 additional cost Private Parties 7:30-11 p.m. Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday $11.00 Price includes Roller Skates 18+ Adults Only After 7 PM - ID Required Private Parties Private Parties 4-8 p.m. $10.00 8:30-11 p.m. $11. 18+ Adults Only After 7 PM - ID Required 12-9 p.m. $10.00 Everyone must pay admission after 6 p.m. Sorry No Checks - ATM on site Roller skate rentals included in all prices Inline Skate Rentals $3.00 additional BIRTHDAY & PRIVATE PARTIES AVAILABLE www.roller-world.com
Page 10 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 Ringing in the Lunar New Year Mystic Valley Elder Services Hosts Celebration at 630 Salem St. Special to The Advocate M ystic Valley Elder Services (MVES) held a Lunar New Year celebration at 630 Salem Street in Malden with over 60 residents in attendance. Sweet Honey, a group of local Residents of 630 Salem Street enjoy a tasty meal of Chinese favorites while celebrating the Year of the Snake, 2025. The MVES Nutrition Department catered the event. (Courtesy photo) The Sweet Honey group’s dance team performs during Mystic Valley Elder Services’ Lunar New Year party at 630 Salem Street. (Courtesy photo) Donate Your Vehicle Call (866) 618-0011 to donate your car, truck, boat, RV, and more today! ■ Support Veteran Nonprofi ts. ■ Free Pickup & Towing. ■ Top Tax Deduction. Donate Your Vehicle Today 866-618-0011 www.veterancardonations.org/dnt122 While we appreciate every donation, in some cases, we fi nd that we are unable to accept certain vehicles, watercraft, and/or recreational vehicles due to the prohibitive costs of acquisition. If you have any questions, please give us a call at (866) 618-0011. performers, were the highlight of the event. They performed dance, Tai Chi and Tai Chi sword art, and music with singing and harmonica. The music included traditional Chinese songs as Krystal Cunha and Angie Fernandez from the MVES Nutrition Department serve a Chinese luncheon to residents. Lunar New Year has become a beloved tradition at 630 Salem Street.(Courtesy photo) well as some American tunes like “Massachusetts.” The Sweet Honey group includes two residents from 630 Salem Street and two from other Malden Housing Authority locations. The MVES Nutrition Team catered a delicious meal of Chinese food. It was so popular, there was hardly any left at the end! Mystic Valley Elder Services would like to recognize Terri Fitzgerald, MVES Resident Services Coordinator at 630 Salem Street, for her efforts to bring residents together and provide a welcoming, celebratory event. MVES also wishes to thank Malden Housing Authority for its ongoing support and partnership. Finally, from everyone at Mystic Valley Elder Services, 新年快乐, Happy New Year! Annual Antique Show & Sale returns on Sat., March 8 T he Malden Historical Society will bring its annual Antique Show and Sale back to Anthony’s of Malden on March 8, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Now in its 37th year, this event has become a local tradition. It provides a great opportunity to get out of the house during the winter doldrums, explore the wares of more than 25 dealers and take home an interesting piece of our tangible past. The one-day Malden Antique Show and Sale has consistently attracted dealers from throughout New England who offer a range of items for sale, including art, jewelry, glass, china, silver, pottery, linens, lighting, toys, books, postcards, small furniture, ephemera and much more. Anthony’s provides convenient access for dealers and shoppers alike. Admission to the show is $6 ($5 with an ad, card or copy of this article, print or electronic) and benefits the Malden Historical Society. Anthony’s will have lunch and beverages available for purchase, so everyone can make a day of it. Anthony’s is located at 105 Canal St. in Malden, has ample free parking, is a two-block walk from the MBTA Orange Line’s Malden Center Station and is wheelchair accessible – with all dealers on one floor. The Malden Historical Society is a local, volunteer-run, nonprofit organization founded in 1886 and dedicated to collecting, preserving and disseminating the history of Malden and beyond – and fostering an appreciation of everyone’s history. To learn more about the Malden Historical Society, visit www.maldenhistoricalsociety. org or email info@maldenhistoricalsociety.org.
THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 Page 11 Sen. Lewis champions greater transparency and public access to the state legislature O n February 13, 2025, State Senator Jason Lewis joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts Senate to unanimously approve updated legislative rules for the new 2025-2026 legislative session that would increase transparency and public accessibility to the state legislature. The Senate passed updated Senate-specific rules that will go into effect immediately. The Senate also passed proposed Joint Rules for their collaboration with the House of Representatives; these will now need to be reconciled with a Joint Rules proposal from the House before taking effect. “Building greater trust and confidence in our government by improving transparency and accountability is critical for a healthy democracy,” said Senator Lewis. “I have long championed ROUNDUP | FROM PAGE 8 premises. 12. Marijuana in any form, including plants, and Marijuana Products shall not be visible from outside of the building. 13. Any outside storage of any kind is prohibited. 14. Any outside display of any kind is prohibited. 15. Incorporate odor control ate and Joint Rules will further open up the legislative process and make it easier for the public to see how we operate and to hold us accountable.” Highlights of the updated Senate-specific rules include: • Requiring that all votes taken by Senators in joint committees be posted online. The Senate already requires Senate committee votes to be posted online. • Requiring that all public writJason Lewis State Senator efforts to improve the transparency of state and local government, including being the lead Senate sponsor of the last major update to the state’s public records law. These updated Sentechnology and provisions and ensure that emissions do not violate M.G.L. c.111 § 31C, including but not limited to those specified for odors. 16. Prior to issuance of any final occupancy permit, submit copies of the following licenses and approvals: a) A valid license issued by the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission, as defined herein this ten or in-person testimony received by Senate members of a joint committee be posted online. The Senate already requires testimony to Senate committees to be posted online. • Requiring Senate committees to make bill summaries available online for legislation reported favorably out of the Ordinance; b) A fully executed Community Host Agreement with the City of Malden, as defined herein this Ordinance; c) Any required license and/or approvals issued by the Malden Cannabis Licensing and Enforcement Commission; and d) Any required license and/or approvals issued by the Malden Board of Health. 17. Mitigation based on pre9-MONTH CD 4.25% Unlock Tomorrow’s Potential. There’s Every Bank, Then There’s *Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate of the date posted and is subject to change without notice. APY assumes the interest remains on deposit until maturity. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. A minimum of $500 is required to open a Certificate of Deposit and earn the advertised APY. Member FDIC | Member DIF APY* committee. Summaries from the Senate Ways and Means Committee have long been provided to Senators and members of the public who ask for them, but this provision would make the same information easily available online. • Requiring every Senator and Senate employee to undergo cybersecurity training every legislative session. This would be in addition to anti-harassment training, implicit bias training and ethics training, which are already required. Highlights of the Senate’s updated Joint Rules proposal include: • Requiring bill sponsors to provide public bill summaries for every bill they file • Increasing notice time for joint committee public hearings liminary peer review and after the six-month traffic study is conducted. 18. The Petitioner shall work with the City and the abutting property owners to connect the Spot Pond Greenway Project to the bike path. 19. Provide twelve (12) off-site parking spaces. 20. The hours of retail operation shall be 9:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M. from a minimum of three days to five days to give stakeholders and the public more time to prepare • Moving up the deadline for joint committees to report out bills earlier in the legislative session to improve the efficient flow of legislation • Requiring that at least the first meeting of a conference committee be open to the public and media for greater transparency • Requiring at least one full day between a conference committee report filing and a floor vote in order to allow more time for review • Reforming joint committees to enable Senate and House members to vote only on their respective branch bills to help prevent deadlock and speed up the flow of legislation For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 617-387-2200 or Info@ advocatenews.net
Page 12 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 MALDEN POLICE LOG SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Trespass and vehicle towed, Clifton Street, 12:02 a.m. Directed patrol, Bellvale Street, 12:16 a.m. Directed patrol, Malden Catholic High School, 99 Crystal St., 12:25 a.m. Traffic assignment, 800 Eastern Ave., 12:44 a.m. Directed patrol, SP Plus Parking, 55 Dartmouth St., 12:58 a.m. Business alarm (building secure), One Stop Mart, 33 Pleasant St., 1:22 a.m. Motor vehicle accident, property damage, Salem St. Extension and Traverse Terrace, 1:30 a.m. Directed patrol. Woodland Road, 1:42 a.m. Directed patrol, 100 Hospital Road, 1:44 a.m. Assist other agency, 120 Salem St., 1:45 a.m. Medical aid, Walgreens, 185 Centre St., 1:55 a.m. Directed patrol, SP Plus Parking, 55 JacksonSt., 1:58 a.m. Directed patrol, Forestdale Community Church, 235 Forest St., 2:19 a.m. Public assistance. Beachview Avenue, 3:12 a.m. Directed patrol (building secure), St. Joseph's Parish, 790 Salem St., 3:50 a.m. Directed patrol (building secure), 630 Salem St. Housing, 4:12 a.m. Directed patrol, Forestdale School (building secure), 74 Sylvan St., 4:16 a.m. Directed patrol, Salemwood School, 529 Salem St., 4:22 a.m. Road hazard, 10 Division St., 4:32 a.m. Directed patrol, Salemwood School, 529 Salem St., 5:34 . Trespassing, Mt. Vernon Street, 6:10 a.m. Parking complaint, Clayton Street and Warren Avenue, 6:46 a.m. Check motor vehicle, U.S. Postal Service, 109 Mountain Ave.,7:42 a.m. Parking complaint, Willard Street, 8:22 a.m. Public assistance, Washington Street, 8:46 a.m. Misdial police assistance, Boylston Street, 8:58 a.m. Parking complaint, Grape Street, 9:37 a.m. Motor vehicle accident, papers exchanged, Clayton Street, 9:44 a.m. Parking complaint, Linden Avenue, 9:45 a.m. Past Breaking & Entering Motor Vehicle, Essex Street, 10:16 a.m. Misdial police assistance, James Street, 10:22 a.m. Sudden death, Forest Street, 10:31 a.m. Keep the peace, Stop & Shop, 99 Charles St., 10:33 a.m. Parking complaint, Boylston Street, 10:36 a.m. Past Breaking and Entering Motor Vehicle, Park Street, 11:07 a.m. Past Breaking and Entering Motor Vehicle, Linden Avenue. 11:20 a.m. Notification, Bainbridge Street, 11:54 a.m. Medical aid, Barstow Street, 3:52 p.m. Medical aid, 621 Broadway, 4:08 p.m. Disturbance, Pleasant Regency Apartments, 157 Pleasant St., 5:38 p.m. Check motor vehicle, 31 Harvard St., 7:29 p.m. Disturbance, Clifton Street, 7:48 p.m. Disturbance, Autumn Street, 8:30 p.m. 911 hangup, Eastern Ave. Apartments, 501 Eastern Ave., 9:36 p.m. Medical aid, Newland Street, 11:57 a.m. Trespass and vehicle towed, Ferryway School, 150 Cross St., 12:15 p.m. Medical aid. Lincoln Street, 2:11 p.m. Past Breaking and Entering Motor Vehicle, Washington Place, 3:12 p.m. Motor vehicle accident Hit & Run, Oliver and Lynn streets, 3:43 p.m . Past Larceny, Ferry Street, 9:47 p.m. Medical aid, Linwood Street, 10:15 p.m. Directed patrol, 7-ELEVEN, 169 Salem St., 11:23 p.m. Directed patrol, Malden Housing 630 Salem St. (building secure), 11:25 p.m. Directed patrol, Oak Grove MBTA Station (notify other officers), 11:33 p.m. Disturbance, Washington Street and Mountain Avenue, 11:42 p.m. Disturbance, 505 Pleasant St. apartments, 11:43 p.m. **** MONDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Directed patrol, Malden Square, 2 Pleasant St., 12:02 a.m. Directed patrol, Loomis Street, 12:06 a.m. Directed patrol, Irish American Association, 77 West St., 12:16 a.m. Directed patrol, unfounded report, Fellsmere Park, West Border Road, 12:17 a.m. Directed patrol, Bowman Street, 12:22 a.m. Directed patrol, Devir Park, 200 Emerald St., 12:23 a.m. Directed patrol, building secure,Dunkin Donuts, 655 Salem St., 12:36 a.m. Directed patrol, Dartmouth Street Parking Lot, 12:42 a.m. Directed patrol, unfounded report,Amerige Park, 1 Savin St., 12:53 a.m. Medical aid, West Street, 12:55 a.m. Directed patrol, Dartmouth Street Parking Lot, 1:21 a.m. Directed patrol, building secure. Forestdale School, 74 Sylvan St., 1:38 a.m. Directed patrol, Loomis Street, 1:47 a.m. Directed patrol, unfounded report, Congregation Beth Israel, 10 Dexter St., 1:53 a.m. Directed patrol, Essex Street, 1:53 a.m. Directed patrol, Coytemore Lea Park, 70 Clifton St., 2:00 a.m. Disturbance, Plymouth Road residence,2:14 a.m. Disturbance, Malden Street residence, 2:17 a.m. Medical aid, Bank of America ATM, 350 Main St., 2:10 a.m. Directed patrol, Anthony's Restaurant, 105 Canal St., 2:59 a.m. Directed patrol, building secure, Salemwood School, 529 Salem St., 3:05 a.m. 911 hangup, Wyeth Street, 3:36 a.m. Welfare check, 200 Mountain Ave. apartments, 3:50 a.m. 911 hangup, Salem Street, 5:05 a.m. Medical aid, Webber Street, 5:20 a.m. Directed patrol, building secure, Malden Industrial Center, 730 Eastern Ave., 6:05 a.m. Directed patrol, Malden Catholic HS Athletic Building, 51 Crystal St., 6:21 a.m. Directed patrol, Barton's Home Outlet, 260 Eastern Ave., 6:21 a.m. Traffic assignment, Linden STEAM Academy, Education Way and Wescott Street, 7:27 a.m. Past Motor Vehicle Breaking and Entering, Bayrd Terrace, 7:35 a.m. Traffic assignment, Beebe School, 401 Pleasant St., 7:50 a.m . Traffic assignment, Forestdale School, 74 Sylvan St., 8:23 a.m. Trespassing, vehicle towed, Stone Lane, 8:57 a.m. Trespassing, vehicle towed, Overlook Ridge Drive, 8:58 a.m. Trespassing, second vehicle towed, Overlook Ridge Drive, 8:58 a.m. Trespassing, vehicle towed, Stone Lane, 8:59 a.m. Trespassing, vehicle towed, 195 Pleasant St., 9:00 a.m. Trespassing, vehicle towed, 600 Pleasant St., 9:00 a.m. Trespassing, second vehicle towed, 600 Pleasant St., 9:02 a.m. Trespassing, vehicle towed, Overlook Ridge Drive, 9:02 a.m. Traffic assignment, Broadway and Salem Street, 9:06 a.m. Disturbance, Broadway, 9:22 a.m. Motor vehicle stop, Arrest made: Malden man, 30, charged with electronic device in use while operating motor vehicle, Eastern Avenue and Wyeth Street, 9:23 a.m. Fraud investigation, Gateway Apartments, 10 Summer St., 9:34 a.m. Traffic assignment, Bainbridge Street, 9:38 a.m. Medical aid, Belmont Street, 9:39 a.m. Followup, Highland Avenue, POLICE | SEE PAGE 13
THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 Page 13 Two Malden men face federal drug charges after allegedly trying to sell kilo of cocaine to undercover agents Both suspects held without bail after hearing; One is a Guatemalan national who re-entered U.S. illegally after being deported Advocate Staff Report T wo Malden men are being held without bail on federal drug charges after allegedly selling cocaine on several occasions to undercover Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) agents. They were arrested and charged last week when they attempted to complete their largest sale, a full kilogram of cocaine to federal DEA agents two days before Valentine's Day on February 12. Erick Sandoval-Perez, 43, a Guatemalan national living in Malden, was charged with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine. Christhian Castillo, 32, also of Malden, was charged with disPOLICE | FROM PAGE 12 9:40 a.m. Motor vehicle stop, Emerald Street and Fellsway, Citation issued, 9:56 a.m. Motor vehicle stop, Fellsway and Malden Street, Citation issued, 10:08 a.m. Papers served, 224 Kennedy Drive apartments, 10:11 a.m. Check motor vehicle, Gordon Street, 10:14 a.m. Motor vehicle stop, Citation issued, Emerald Street and Fellsway, 10:14 a.m. Traffic assignment, Jacob and Valley streets, 10:18 a.m. Motor vehicle stop, Citation issued, Emerald Street and Fellsway, 10:18 a.m. Motor vehicle stop, Citation issued, Granite Street, 10:19 a.m. Motor vehicle stop, Citation issued, Emerald Street and Fellsway, 10:20 a.m. Directed patrol, Ferryway School 150 Cross St., Building Secure, 10:25 a.m. Motor Vehicle towed, 58 Wyoming Ave., 10:39 a.m. Directed patrol, Beebe School, 401 Pleasant St., Building Secure, 10:42 a.m. Medical aid, Pierce St., 10:46 a.m. Motor vehicle stop, Citation istribution and possession with intent to distribute 500 or more grams of cocaine and conspiracy to commit that offense. Sandoval-Perez and Castillo had initial appearances and a detention hearing in federal court in Worcester on February 13, and were ordered held without bail pending further proceedings. According to court records, Sandoval-Perez, is a Guatemalan national who was previously deported from the United States and allegedly re-entered illegally. Sandoval-Perez is subject to deportation proceedings upon completion of an imposed sentence, if convicted, and/or when the court proceedings regarding this case conclude. sued, Fellsway and Malden Street, 10:59 a.m. Directed patrol, Forestdale School, 74 Sylvan St., Building secure, 11:00 a.m. Motor vehicle stop, Citation issued, Emerald Street and Fellsway, 11:03 a.m. Check motor vehicle, Whitman Street, 11:08 a.m. Motor vehicle stop, Citation issued, Emerald Street and Fellsway, 11:15 a.m. Traffic assignment, Clifton and Dexter streets, 11:17 a.m. Motor vehicle stop, Citation issued, Emerald Street and Fellsway, 11:25 a.m. Assist public, Mt. Vernon Street, 11:30 a.m. Transport person, Elwell Street, 11:31 a.m. Lost property, Reported at Malden Police Station, 800 Eastern Ave., 11:39 a.m. Medical aid, Malden Police Station, 800 Eastern Ave., 11:42 a.m. Motor vehicle stop, Citation issued, Emerald Street and Fellsway, 11:46 a.m. Motor vehicle stop, Citation issued, Emerald Street and Fellsway, 11:50 a.m. Directed patrol, Salemwood School, 529 Salem St., 11:50 a.m. Keep the peace, Highland Avenue, 11:56 a.m. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA, New England Field Division; Chief Ryan Malatos of the Leominster Police Department; and Chief Brian W. Coyne of the Clinton Police Department made the announcement of the case this week. DEA officials also noted valuable assistance was provided by the Malden Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan O’Shea of the Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case.In court last week, prosecutors said Sandoval-Perez and Castillo allegedly worked together to sell cocaine on several occasions to an undercover law enforcement officer. Last Thursday,February 12, Sandoval-Perez allegedly arranged to sell a kilogram of cocaine to an undercover DEA agent. Castillo was arrested when he allegedly handed the kilogram of cocaine to the undercover officer, and Sandoval-Perez was arrested nearby. —The charge of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $1,000,000. —The charges of distribution and possession with intent to distribute 500 or more grams of cocaine, and conspiracy to commit that offense, carry a sentence of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison, supervised release of at least four years and a fine of up to $5,000,000. Sandoval-Perez is subject to deportation proceedings upon completion of an imposed sentence. Mayor seeks associate member for Board of Appeal M ayor Gary Christenson is reaching out to Malden residents to fill an associate member vacancy on the Board of Appeal. The seven-member Board (five members and two associate members) operates under the mandates of M.G.L. c. 40A and the City of Malden zoning ordinance. The Board of Appeal assists in the administration of the city’s zoning ordinance by considering appeals to vary dimensional controls (lot size, frontage, height, setback, etc.) when a literal application of the ordinance would impose a hardship. Residents may also appeal decisions of the Building Inspector to the Board of Appeal. Board of Appeal members are appointed by the Mayor with City Council confirmation and serve a term of three years. The Board meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. The primary difference between an associate member and a full status member is that full members participate and vote on all petitions, hearings and/or matters before the Board for which they are in attendance and do not have a conflict of interest. An associate member participates when there are not five full members available for the hearing. Typically, the need for an associate member arises when a full member is absent from a meeting or is present but has a conflict of interest. Associate members should plan to attend all scheduled Board of Appeal meetings and prepare for them as a full member would, in the event they are called upon to participate. If all five full members attend, the associate members do not participate. If there is one member not in attendance, hearing participation will be alternated between the two associate members. To apply, please complete the online Boards and Commissions Application: www.cityofmalden.org/BCApplication. If you have any questions, please email kmanninghall@cityofmalden.org. The deadline for accepting applications is Wednesday, March 5, 2025. For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 617-387-2200 or Info@advocatenews.net
Page 14 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 Boys Swim Kicks Off Postseason at MIAA North Sectionals By Emily Brennan T he Mystic Valley boys swimming team kicked off their postseason on Sunday at MIT with a strong showing, setting the stage for the MIAA Division 2 State Championships on February 16th. The Eagles amassed 122 points, earning an impressive 8th-place finish. The meet began with the 200 Medley Relay, where the team of Jaden Anthony, Christian Antonucci, Brandon Wamala, and Dylan Phan delivered their fastest time of the season, touching in at 1:41.49 to earn a 6thplace finish. In the third event, the 200 Individual Medley, Antonucci secured 3rd place with a time of 2:01.26. Seventh-grader Wamala, competing in his first-ever Sectionals meet, finished 24th with a time of 2:18.94. Following the break, the 100 Butterfly saw Thomas Sodeyama-Cardoso place 10th in 55.68, just ahead of his brother, Kevin Sodeyama-Cardoso, who took 11th in an identical time of 55.68. Wamala returned for his second individual event, finishing in 58.28. The 200 Freestyle Relay team—Kevin Sodeyama-Cardoso, Lucas Freitas, Antonucci, and Anthony—posted a strong 7th-place finish in 1:32.29. The 100 Breaststroke proved to be a dominant event for the Eagles. Antonucci placed 2nd with a swift 59.42, while Thomas Sodeyama-Cardoso secured 14th with a lifetime-best 1:03.66. In the final event, the 400 FreeCoach giving the team a pep talk before the start of the meet. style Relay, the team of Phan, Freitas, Kevin Sodeyama-Cardoso, and Thomas Sodeyama-Cardoso finished 9th with a time of 3:29.55. Members of the boys team are shown warming up in the pool. With North Sectionals behind them, Mystic Valley now shifts its focus to the MIAA Division 2 State Championships, set to take place on Sunday, February 16th, at Boston University. For the latest updates on MV Athletics, follow the Eagles on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Mystic Valley Makes History with Runner-Up Finish at MIAA State Championships By Emily Brennan T he Mystic Valley girls’ swim team delivered a historic performance at the MIAA Division 2 State Championships, earning a program-best second-place finish with a total of 194 points. This marks the highest place and point total ever achieved by any Mystic Valley team at a state championship event. The meet began with a victory in the 200 Medley Relay, as Sydney Cao, Brittney Nayiga, Isabelle Pennachio, and Lana Albuquerque dominated the competition to claim Mystic Valley’s first-ever state championship relay title. Their time of 1:53.52 secured the gold and set the tone for what would be a record-breaking day. With momentum on their side, the Eagles continued to shine in the 200 Individual Medley, where two swimmers secured top eight finishes. Isabella Cirame led the way, clocking in at 2:16.52 to secure a 5th-place finish for the team. Lucia Antonucci followed with a lifetime best of 2:18.81, earning 8th place, while Pennachio rounded out the trio with a strong 10th-place finish, also achieving a personal best of 2:21.74. Nayiga continued the success in the 50 Freestyle securing a 12th place and scoring valuable points. Albuquerque followed with a season-best 26.10, finishing 15th also scoring, while 7th grader Benitah Mwebaza, the only 7th grader in the State who qualified for an individual event, put in a strong swim, clocking 26.67 to claim 24th place. The 100 Butterfly saw Pennachio finish in 11th place at 1:03.84 again scoring valuable points, while Khloe Co finished 27th with a time of 1:08.43. In the 100 Freestyle, Cirame came within 0.03 seconds of breaking the school record, earning 4th place with a season and lifetime best of 55.15.Mwebaza impressed with a personal best of 57.61, claiming 19th place, while Cao followed in 22nd with a time of 58.12. As the meet progressed, the Eagles’ 200 Freestyle Relay team of Antonucci, Cirame, Albuquerque, and Nayiga powered to a third-place finish with a time of 1:41.73, further solidifying Mystic Valley’s dominance in the standings. Cao posted a personal best of 1:03.58 in the 100 Backstroke, claiming 9th place. In the 100 Breaststroke, Antonucci impressed with a lifetime best 1:08.89, finishing 5th and once again breaking her own school record. Nayiga took 7th with a time of 1:10.62, just shy of her personal best but still contributing vital points to the team. To cap off the day, the Eagles’ 400 Freestyle Relay team of Cirame, Mwebaza, Cao, and Antonucci posted a strong 3:48.12 to claim 4th place, bringing the meet to a thrilling conclusion for Mystic Valley. Reflecting on the team’s success, Coach Andrew DiGiacomo expressed immense pride: “This Isabella Pennachio, Lana Albuquerque, Sydney Cao, and Britney Nayiga. group of girls has been so special. From the start of the season, they set goals, worked hard, and made them happen. They deserve everything they’ve accomplished, and I could not be prouder of how we swam and how we placed.” No team Girls Swim team in Mystic Valley’s sending Districts has ever finished so high at the State meet or had a relay team win gold.With this groundbreaking performance, Mystic Valley has cemented itself among the top programs in the state, setting a new standard of excellence for the future.
THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 Page 15 4TH IN A ROW! Girls Basketball sets new Malden High record for State Tourney berths Coach Marino's Tornados win 5-of-6 down stretch; Clutch 'W' over Lynn English (44-35) clinches States By Steve Freker in a row, another Malden High "first".But this year's squad, led T here's been a whole bunch of "uncharted territory" for head coach Scott Marino's Girls Basketball team this winter. But as long as they reached the destination they sought, all the uncertainty and doses of anxiety all get washed away. That is because for an unprecedented 4th consecutive season, Malden High is headed to the MIAA Division 1 State Girls Basketball Tournament. Tornado teams in the past have made it two years in a row on a couple of occasions. Last year's Marino-led 2023-2024 squad made it for a third year by senior tri-captains Amanda Ebenezer, Ina Tolete and Kim Tropnas went one step further: Another state tourney berth. "We have several goals we make in the preseason and qualifying for the State Tournament is one of the biggest ones," Coach Marino said. "It is always a big accomplishment to move on and play in the postseason and this group deserves a lot of credit in the way we have played in the second half of the season. "It did not look great whenwe were sitting with just 4 wins with 9 games left to play, but we hung in there and got the job done," Coach Marino added. The Malden seniors (Ebenezer, Tolete and Tropnas) have now made it to postseason play in all four years as MHS basketball players. Malden came all the way back from a midseason slide, which found the Tornados at 4-7, to win 4 straight games andmake it to 8-7. The team needed at least 2 victories in their final 4 games to qualify for the MIAA State Girls Basketball Tournament for an unprecedented 4th consecutive season. Facing what may have been the most jam-packed schedule in history as well, four games in one week, last week, in FIVE days, Malden started with what Marino called a "gigantic" win on Feb. 11. (See separate story) On Senior Night February 13, Malden dropped a close game to visiting Somerville to drop to an even 8-8. That did not deter the Tornados one bit, however. Wins on back-to-back nights this past Friday (over Salem) and Saturday (44-35 over Lynn English)— both on the road — sealed the deal for Malden, as its win-total hit the magic "10" as the Tornados improved to 10-8 overall. The tourney-clinching win over the Lynn English Lady Bulldogs was especially satisfying since Malden dropped a close one, 61-56, earlier this season at home. Two more games over February Vacation Break Malden's busy stretch continued into this February Vacation Break (February 17-23) with a pair of home games. On Monday, President's Day, February 17, Malden fell to visiting non-leaguer Burlington, 61-51. Malden Girls Basketball concluded the regular season at home yesterday, Thursday, February 20 when the Tornados hosted non-leaguer Beverly (611) at 6:00 p.m. after Advocate press deadline. Malden Girls Basketball EarnsBig Win Over Lowell, 37-32; Ebenezer (16 pts), Exilhomme (11 rebounds) lead way By Steve Freker T here are "big" wins, there are "huge" wins and there are also "monster" wins. Much-needed "must wins" come in other sizes, too. Anyone eavesdropping on Malden High head coach Scott Marino's postgame huddle after his Tornado girls toughed out a victory over visiting Lowell High last Tuesday night can attest to that. "You probably don't all realize this yet," Coach Marino told the squad immediately after the game on February 11, "but this was a gigantic win! Gigantic!" Rightly so. With Malden girls prevailing in a 37-32 win over visiting Lowell. It was also Malden's 4th straight win after a midseason slide saw the Blue and Gold girls dip to 4-7 overall. :"We needed a strong showing when we really needed it and we got it tonight," Coach Amanda Ebenezer, Malden High senior captain, led all scorers with 16 points in the win over Lowell. (Advocate Photos) Marino assessed. The game was essentially BIG SHOT— Manicha Exilhomme (20) puts up a shot which gave Malden a secure lead over Lowell at 33-29 with just over a minute to play in Tuesday's win. (Advocate Photos) a "Tale of Two Halves"... plus a "Heisman". Malden, whose mascot, "NEDLAM," is indeed a lion, roared out to a 25-11 lead at halftime, beFINAL TIMEOUT— Malden High Head Coach Scott Marino goes over his final checklist in the last timeout of the game just before Malden locked down a very important win over Lowell. hind the scoring of senior captain of 6-1 senior captain Amanda Ebenezer, who led the gym with 16 points for the evening, 11 points coming in the first half. Then came the second half. If visiting Lowell was sleepwalking in the first half, it was MalBASKETBALL | SEE PAGE 18
Page 16 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 Malden Winter Cheerleaders are Honored on Senior Night By Steve Freker I t was a new look and a whole new vibe for the Malden High School Winter Cheerleaders this season and it drew rave reviews. The Sound and the Spirit rang out loud and clear this season as the Tornado cheer squad encouraged the Boys and Girls Basketball Teams and the crowd as well. Malden High’s Winter Cheerleaders performed at nearly every Boys and Girls home game and were memorable whether it was talking up the east side of the Finn Gym with their large numbers or the cheers they undertook during the halftime performances. All in all it was a great winter season for the cheerleaders, culminating in a night to honor their Senior Here is entire group all the Malden High Winter Cheerleaders with their family and friends. (Advocate Photos/Henry Huang) members of the Class of 2025. The Senior Night honors for Winter Cheerleaders coincided with the honors for the Boys Varsity Basketball Team before the February 7 game versus Somerville. The Malden High School Winter Cheerleaders honored that evening were Saniah Charles, Olivia Ivy, Mia McMillan, Anais Perez, Isabella Truong and Samara Valencia Perez. Saniah Charles with family and friends (Advocate Photos/Henry Huang) Anais Perez and family Samara Valencia Perez with family Malden High swimmers impress at Division 1 North Sectionals Hailey Tran & Sophie Tran have impressive finishes; Tornados place 12th at event The following information was provided by the Malden Public Schools Athletic Department. T he Malden High School Coed Swim team conquered the Greater Boston League again this season with their fourth straight GBL Title. With the exception of a brief stint in the Northeastern Conference (South Champs two years in row), MHS Swim has dominated the GBL for well over a decade. The Swim Team this year was led by first-year Head Coach and MHS Science teacher Julie Grillon. Coach Grillon stepped up to take on the role of Head Coach while Head Coach Jessica Bisson is out on medical leave. Coach Grillon is no stranger to the pool nor coaching. Julie was Head Coach of the Malden High softball team for several years and led the swimming program at the Malden YMCA many more. Recently, six student-athletes represented Malden High School at the Division 1 North Sectional Swim Meet and showed they haven’t skipped a beat. The girls put in some impressive performances both in individual events as well as relays, earning MHS Swim 12th place out of 23 schools. The Tran sisters (Hailey and Sophie) made their presence known individually as well as a relay team –placing 10th in the 200 Medley Relay and 16th in the 400 freestyle relay (Katie Rice, Hailey Tran, Sophie Tran and Ian Ian Ho). Individually, Captain Hailey Tran placed 8th in the 50 Freestyle and 9th in the 100 Breaststroke. Hailey’s younger sister Sophie had impressive performances in the 100 Butterfly (4th place) and the 100 Backstroke (4th place). Alternate student athlete swimmer Yingyan Xia did not compete in sectionals but competed last weekend at Boston University at the Division 1 MIAA State Championship Meet along with the other Malden swimSECTIONAL SWIMMERS: From left: Katie Rice, Hailey Tran, Sophie Tran and Ian Ian Ho. (Courtesy/MHS Athletics) mers. Congratulations to Coach Grillon and the Malden High Coed Swim Team for an impressive and exciting regular season and postseason.
THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 Page 17 HOUSING | FROM PAGE 3 ally pass was a motion made by Ward 3 Councillor Amanda Linehan to strike out references to converting the Courthouse and Oak Grove Community Center to affordable housing and to have a detailed discussion by the Public Property Committee on converting surplus property to affordable housing use. Linehan’s motion passed by a 9-1 vote. She has been a driving force and champion of the planning and feasibility research that led to the plan to convert the Courthouse to an arts center. She also pointed out that the cost to renovate the Courthouse was now estimated at between $17 million and $19 million, not $12 million. “I believe in the arts center and I believe in the Oak Grove Community Center,” Councillor Linehan said. “I have also proposed that there can be both uses at the Courthouse: arts and affordable housing.” “There is a very concrete, phased plan we can do. We have more working artists [in Malden] than in any other community in our region,” Linehan said. “The arts community has bounced back since the pandemic.” “I have put five years of work into the Courthouse [arts center plan]. I feel really, really deeply about this project,” Linehan added. “At least we have to give it a shot. This resolve [to convert the buildings] came out of nowhere. I think it’s a false equivalent.” Ward 7 Councillor Chris Simonelli actually stood up at his place on the dais instead of sitting and emphatically said, “My ward is the affordable housing capital [of Malden]. Since I’ve been in office, I have been asked to create affordable housing.” “Show me where you made it,” he said to the other Councillors. “I already made it.” “You might want to watch your mouth about creating affordable housing if you haven’t put any affordable housing there,” Simonelli added. “I’ll get into it with anyone on this floor on affordable housing.” Ward 6 Councillor Stephen Winslow said he took exception to the resolution regarding specific buildings in specific wards without the Ward Councillors being included in the discussion, in this case, Linehan in Ward 3 (Courthouse) and City Council President Ryan O’Malley in Ward 4. “The city has a lot of properties. We should look at parking lots and all of our properties.” For his part, Councillor-at-Large Carey McDonald, who has spent a great deal of time and effort on the Council’s Affordable Housing Trust, along with Councillors Winslow, Linehan and others, said he was pleased with the extensive discussion on the topic. “I’m just thrilled about all this discussion on affordable housing,” Councillor McDonald said, “Hot diggity dog!” “But do we want to try and solve it, or just yell at each other?” McDonald asked. “I would love to support more discussion. Let’s talk about all of our properties. If we are serious about this, let’s talk about how to incentivize mixed use and just talk about how to increase affordable housing.” Councillor-at-Large Karen Colón Hayes said it is important to involve Malden residents in this type of discussion. “We can’t just pop this out in the community without informing the community. Just targeting these two buildings is not fair. We have to have a big talk about all of this.” The end result was that the resolution regarding surplus city-owned properties was referred to discussion at a future joint meeting of the Council’s Public Property and Community Engagement & Inclusion Committees. For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 617-387-2200 or Info@ advocatenews.net Lynn English rushes past Malden High Boys Basketball Team Another strong start but Tornados can’t keep momentum in 60-45 loss Junior De’Shawn Bunch (3) goes up for a layup against Lynn English. (Advocate Photos/Henry Huang) Junior Colin Okoth sees some daylight with this three-point shot. Ma lden senio r capt a i n Wyatt Dessert (5) lines up a jumper. City of Malden Massachusetts INSPECTIONAL SERVICES 215 Pleasant Street, Room 330 Malden, Massachusetts 02148 (781) 397-7000 ext. 2044 MALDEN PLANNING BOARD PUBLIC HEARING The Malden Planning Board will hold a public hearing in the Herbert L. Jackson Council Chamber, Malden City Hall, 215 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA at 7:00 P.M. on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 (tabled on September 13, 2023) on the petition of 41 Warren LLC (Permit Application # RES-058977-2023) seeking a special permit under Title 12, Chapter 28, Section 010(D)(1) of the Code of the City of Malden, to alter, structurally change and change use of a preexisting nonconforming property in the Residence A zoning district, namely, to convert the vacant storefront to a sixth residential dwelling unit and to change use of the building from a multifamily dwelling with five units to a multifamily dwelling with six units, at the property known as and numbered, 91-95 Medford Street, Malden, MA and by City Assessor’s Parcel ID# 066 304 407. Petition and plans are available for public review in City Hall, Inspectional Services Department, Room 330, 215 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA and on the City website under Permit Application # RES-058977-2023 at https://maldenma-energovweb.tylerhost.net/apps/SelfService#/home By: Diane M. Chuha Clerk February 21, 28, 2025
Page 18 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 617-387-2200 or Info@advocatenews.net Savvy Senior by Jim Miller How to Choose and Use a Home Blood Pressure Monitor Dear Savvy Senior, Can you offer me any tips on choosing and using a home blood pressure monitor? I just found out I have high blood pressure and my doctor recommended I get a home monitor so I can keep tabs on it. Just Turned 63 Dear 63, Everyone with high blood pressure (130/80 or higher) should have a home blood pressure monitor. Home monitoring can help you keep tabs on your blood pressure in a comfortable setting. Plus, if you’re taking medication it will make certain it’s working, and alert you to a health problem if it arises. Here are some top-rated blood pressure monitors to consider along with some tips to help ensure you take an accurate reading. Best Monitors The most accurate and easiest to use home blood pressure monitors today are electric/battery powered automatic arm monitors, which are more reliable than wrist or fingertip monitors. With an automatic arm monitor, you simply wrap the cuff around your bicep and with the push of one button the cuff inflates and deflates automatically giving you your blood pressure reading on the display window in a matter of seconds. Many automatic monitors also come with additional features such as irregular heartbeat detection that checks for arrhythmias and other abnormalities; a risk category indicator that tells you whether your blood pressure is in the high range; a data-averaging function that allows you to take multiple readings and get an overall average; multiple user memory that allows two or more users to save their readings; and downloadable memory that lets you transmit your data to your smartphone or computer. The top five automatic arm monitors as recommended by Consumer Reports for 2025 are the Omron Platinum BP5450 ($90), Omron 10 Series BP7450 ($70), Omron Evolv BP7000 ($70), A&D Medical UA767F ($55), and Omron 3 Series BP7100 ($55). And the top wrist monitors are the Omron 7 Series BP6350 ($55) and the Equate (Walmart) 4500 Series ($40). You can purchase these blood pressure monitors at pharmacies, medical supply stores or online and you don’t need a prescription to buy one. Prices, however, will vary slightly depending on where you buy. How to Measure After you buy your monitor, it’s a good idea to take it to your doctor’s office so they can check its accuracy and make sure you’re using it properly. Here are some additional steps to follow to ensure you get accurate measurements at home. Be still: Don’t exercise, smoke or drink caffeinated drinks or alcohol for at least 30 minutes before measuring. Empty your bladder and ensure at least 5 minutes of quiet rest before measurements. Sit correctly: Sit with your back straight and supported (on a dining chair, rather than a sofa). Your feet should be flat on the floor and your legs should not be crossed. Your arm should be supported on a flat surface (such as a table) with the upper arm at heart level. Make sure the middle of the cuff is placed directly above the bend of the elbow. Check your monitor’s instructions for an illustration. Don’t measure over cloths: Put the cuff directly on your bare skin. Putting it over clothes can raise your systolic (upper) number by up to 40 mmHg. Measure at the same time: It’s important to take the readings at the same time each day, such as in the morning before taking medications, or evening before dinner. Take multiple readings: Each time you measure, take at least two readings one minute apart and record the results. For more information on high blood pressure numbers and how to accurately measure it at home, visit Heart.org/HBP. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior. org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book. MUSINGS | FROM PAGE 7 Maine. The smell of salt lingers in the air, mixed with freshly cut grass and the distant sound of waves slapping against the rocky shore. It’s the kind of crisp morning that makes a body feel lucky to be alive. And then, like something out of a dream, there they stand. Jimmy “Stinger” Cahill, with his easy swagger and a heart too big for his chest. Paul DiPietro, who now calls FLA home, but rest assured, Maldonia flows in his veins. Tommy “Fudd” Proctor, a man who’s seen and done enough to fill three lifetimes but still takes his drives with a twinkle in his eye (I think that’s a twinkle!). Then, the legend himself – Sandy Koufax – a name spoken in baseball circles with the kind of reverence reserved for gods and ghosts (ever see Joe Levine’s classic Sandy Koufax baseball jersey? Wicked cool!). And rounding out this unlikely fivesome? Former President George W. Bush, a man BASKETBALL | FROM PAGE 15 den's turn to take a nap in the second. Lowell woke up bigtime in the third quarter while Malden snoozed, outscoring the hosts, 12-4 and making it a lot closer, trailing by just two possessions, 29-23, heading into the final period. Malden managed just two buckets — one each by Ebenezer and senior Kimberly Tropnas— as Lowell surged to turn a potential blowout into a nailbiter. While Lowell kept coming hard in the fourth quarter, tying the game at 29-29 with 3:11 to play, the Raiders never managed to take the lead, due to some continued board pounding by Ebenezer and a clutch one-step layup after an offensive rebound by Exilhomme to give Malden a 31-29 lead it would never relinquish with 2:47 to play in the game. Ebenezer, though her scoring dipped in the second half, kept it up with her defense and rebounding right down to the final buzzer. On one crucial play, with Malden clinging to the 31-29 lead and the clock showing just under 2 minutes to play, Ebenezer who’s sat in the most powerful seat in the world, but on this day, is just another guy gripping a club, chasing that perfect shot. They shake hands. They share a laugh. Maybe there’s a story about a game long ago, maybe someone brings up that time Stinger nearly missed an entire round because he got caught up in a conversation with the starter. And for a moment – just a flicker in time – these five men, from different worlds but somehow cut from the same cloth, connect. Not in the way some dusty, old history books document, but in the way that really matters. No bar stools, no press, no ceremony. Just a quiet golf course, the rhythm of the game and five souls crossing paths under the Maine sky. —Peter is a longtime Malden resident and a regular contributor to The Malden Advocate. He can be reached at PeteL39@ aol.com for comments, compliments or criticisms. blocked the shot of Lowell's high scorer Quinn McDonald and the ball bounced out to the right sideline. Lowell's Alexis Velezquez appeared ready to save it from going out of bounds and secure the ball, but Malden's Ebenezer stayed with the play by diving for the loose ball, twisting in midair and tipping it ahead to teammate Ina Tolete, who dribbled it downcourt and passed to Tropnas. Tropnas shot, missed, Exilhomme grabbed another offensive rebound and after a miss herself, rebounded again and put perhaps the biggest Malden basket ofthe night off the glass and in for her second field goal of the quarter, extending Malden's lead to 3329. Lowell would never get any closer. For the night, Ebenezer led all scorers with 16 points for Malde, to go along with 10 rebounds and 5 blocked shots. Exilhomme had 8 points and 11 rebounds. Ina Tolete scored two huge three-pointers for 6 points all together for the game, one each in the first two quarters. Kim Tropnas scored 4 points and Olivia Rodrigues scored 2 points,
THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 Page 19 OBITUARIES Carmela Leuzzi Of Malden. Passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on February 8, 2025. She was 93 years old. Carmela was born on September 23, 1931, in Rosario, Argentina to the late Domenico Careri and Caterina (Pitasi). Her family returned to Calabria, Italy where she grew up. After her marriage to Giuseppe, they immigrated to the United States in the 1950s. Carmela was a lifelong resident of Malden. She worked for many years at the Converse Rubber Shoe Company and the Vogue Doll Company. Beloved wife of the late Giuseppe “Joseph” Leuzzi. Loving and devoted mother of Donna Leuzzi and her husband Francesco Castellano of Medford and Domenic Leuzzi of Malden. Cherished “Nonna” of Caterina Castellano and Isabella and Christina Leuzzi. Funeral services took place at the A. J. Spadafora Funeral Home, 865 Main Street, Malden on Saturday, February 15th. Visiting hours are from 8:30-9:30 am, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at the Immaculate Conception Church, 600 Pleasant Street, Malden at 10am. Entombment will be in the Woodlawn Mausoleum, Everett. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. In lieu of flowers donations in Carmela’s memory may be made to a charity of one’s choice. John L. Cantone Of Malden. Passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at the age of 88. John was born in Everett in 1936. He was the beloved husband and best friend of Marie A. Cantone for 63 years. Devoted father of Christine Fernald and Gregory Cantone and wife Monica. John was the proud grandfather of Ashley Fernald and Logan, Gregory Jr, and Santino Cantone. He was also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, their spouses and families. John entered the US Army and served in Alaska during the Korean War. He retired from the Mellon Bank as an Operations Manager. In his retirement years, John worked as a school crossing guard and traffic supervisor for the City of Malden for 10 years. He was an avid Red Sox fan and he will be missed by all who loved him. Funeral services were held at the Weir – MacCuish Golden Rule Funeral Home, 144 Salem St., Malden on Wednesday, February 19th. Interment followed in Woodlawn Cemetery, Everett. 2024 MASSACHUSETTS CHILD AND FAMILY TAX CREDIT this tax credit. Part year residents can claim the credit and must calculate the tax credit he or she is qualified for based upon the number of days living in Massachusetts. A dependent or spouse with Y Portal To Hope (“PTH”) serves people whose lives have been impacted by domestic violence and related assault crimes. Job Opportunities Available: PTH is seeking a Victim Advocate and a Licensed Social Worker to join our team! If you would like to join PTH’s award-winning team and share your leadership in the cause to end domestic violence, Advocate Call now! 617-387-2200 advertise on the web at www.advocatenews.net please call (781) 338-7678 for more information; or, email portaltohope@aol.com. ou are now entitled to claim a tax credit on your 2024 Massachusetts individual income tax return if you are taking care of a dependent child, other dependent or spouse with a disability or another dependent who is age 65 or older. You can claim this tax credit if you are filing single, head of household or married filing joint on your tax return. Your dependent child must be under age 13 as of December 31, 2024. With respect to a dependent age 65 or older as of December 31, 2024, that would not include you or your spouse. The tax credit to claim on your Massachusetts return is $440 for each qualifying individual. There is no limit to the number of qualified individuals that you can claim the tax credit for. This represents an increase over the calendar year 2023 tax credit which was $310 per individual. If you are a Massachusetts non-resident filing a non-resident Massachusetts income tax return, you cannot claim a disability is an individual who is physically or mentally incapable of caring for himself or herself and who principally lives with the taxpayer for more than half of the taxable year. Taxpayers need to keep this tax credit in mind as many spouses are caring for a spouse who might be stricken with a disability such as dementia or a physical disability and requires a significant amount of time in home health care from his or her spouse. This is also a refundable tax credit so even if you your total tax is zero and you had no withholdings from wages or pension income, for example, you would still be able to receive a refund based upon the tax credit as calculated on your Massachusetts income tax return. This is the second year that Massachusetts has provided for such a tax credit. It is a big help to taxpayers caring for children, parents or disabled individuals or spouses. This is in addition to the increase in the circuit breaker tax credit available to taxpayers age 65 or older, which is now up to $2,730. It was $2,400 in 2023 and only $1,200 in 2022. Joseph D. Cataldo is an estate planning/elder law attorney, Certified Public Accountant, Certified Financial Planner, AICPA Personal Financial Specialist and holds a master’s degree in taxation. CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING
Page 20 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 617-387-2200 or Info@ advocatenews.net 855-GO-4-GLAS Like us on Facebook advocate newspaper Facebook.com/ Advocate.news.ma Your Hometown News Delivered! EVERETT ADVOCATE MALDEN ADVOCATE REVERE ADVOCATE SAUGUS ADVOCATE One year subscription to The Advocate of your choice: $200 per paper in-town per year or $225 per paper out-of-town per year. Name_________________________________________ Address_______________________________________ City_______________ State_______ Zip ____________ CC# _______________________________ Exp. _____ Sec. code____ Advocate (City):___________________ Clip & Mail Coupon with Credit Card, Check or Money Order to: Advocate Newspapers Inc. PO Box 490407, Everett, MA 02149 REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS BUYER1 SIQECA, NERITAN BUYER2 MA, THAO SELLER1 F CHRY & CHING-L LIN RET SELLER2 LIN, FONG-CHYR Advocate Call now! 617-387-2200 advertise on the web at www.advocatenews.net Copyrighted material previously published in Banker & Tradesman/The Commercial Record, a weekly trade newspaper. It is reprinted with permission from the publisher, The Warren Group. For a searchable database of real estate transactions and property information visit: www.thewarrengroup.com. ADDRESS 68 FLORAL AVE CITY MALDEN DATE 01.31.25 PRICE 995000 Classifieds
THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 Page 21 Like us on Facebook advocate newspaper Facebook.com/Advocate.news.ma The Kid Does Clean Outs From 1 item to 1,000 * Basements * Homes * Backyards * Commercial Buildings The cheapest prices around! Call Eric: (857) 322-2854 1. On Feb. 21, 1885, what monument was dedicated on the Mall in D.C.? 2. In 1901 what president officially named the White House? 3. On Feb. 22, 1980, what U.S. team defeated the Soviets at the Winter Olympics? 4. What U.S. president was sworn in by his nickname? 5. According to the American Kennel Club, what dog breed (“Sammies”) has a smile that keeps it from drooling and forming icicles? 6. In 1919 in the Boston Evening Transcript was “See the dancing snowflakes. Practicing for the snowball, I suppose”; it was located on what street with a president’s name? 7. On Feb. 23, 1848, what president (middle name is a city) died in the U.S. House? 8. What president from New Hampshire accompanied Nathaniel Hawthorne on a trip to the state? 9. Where is the world’s largest granite quarry: Egypt, North Carolina or Oregon? 10. On Feb. 24, 1942, the Voice of America first broadcasted – in what language? Advocate Call now! 617-387-2200 advertise on the web at www.advocatenews.net Clean-Outs! We take and dispose from cellars, attics, garages, yards, etc. Call Robert at: 781-844-0472 Steps Stoops Rebuilt or Repaired Chimney Rebuilt or Repaired House Foundation Leaks Repaired All Basement Repairs Chimney Inspection Drainage Masonry Repairs Window Installation & Repairs Drywall & Carpentry Waterproofing 11. What is a whipper-in? 12. What Asian board game is considered now the world’s oldest in continuous play? 13. On Feb. 25, 1873, what Italian-American “first international recording star” was born? 14. What American newspaperman/author said, “One of the most striking differences between a cat and a lie is that a cat has only nine lives”? 15. Why does Guadeloupe (in the Caribbean) have the euro for currency? 16. On Feb. 26, 1919, Congress approved establishing what first national park east of the Mississippi? 17. Generation Y people are more commonly known as what? 18. In 1952 what magazine debuted with the line “Tales calculated to drive you Mad – humor in a jugular vein”? 19. What slang word means a style with bucolic inspirations? 20. On Feb. 27, 1807, what poet who wrote “The Village Blacksmith” was born? ANSWERS 1. The Washington Monument obelisk; at the time it was the world’s highest manmade structure. 2. Teddy Roosevelt (It had been called other things, such as the President’s Palace.) 3. Ice hockey 4. Jimmy Carter 5. Samoyed 6. Washington (once “Newspaper Row”) 7. John Quincy Adams (died after having a stroke on the House Floor) 8. Franklin Pierce (the author died during the trip) 9. Mount Airy, North Carolina 10. German (against Nazi propaganda) 11. A huntsman’s assistant with works with dogs 12. Go 13. Enrico Caruso 14. Mark Twain 15. It is an overseas département of France so is part of the eurozone. 16. Acadia National Park 17. Millennials (born in 1980s-1990s) 18. Mad 19. Cottagecore 20. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Classifieds
Page 22 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 617-387-2200 or Info@advocatenews.net American Exterior and Window Corporation Contact us for all of your home improvement projects and necessities. Call Jeff or Bob Toll Free: 1-888-744-1756 617-699-1782 / www.americanexteriorma.com Windows, Siding, Roofing, Carpentry & More! All estimates, consultations or inspections completed by MA licensed supervisors. *Over 50 years experience. *Better Business Bureau Membership. Insured and Registered Complete Financing Available. No Money Down. Frank Berardino MA License 31811 ● 24-Hour Service ● Emergency Repairs BERARDINO Plumbing & Heating Gas Fitting ● Drain Service Residential & Commercial Service 617.699.9383 Senior Citizen Discount AAA Service • Lockouts Trespass Towing • Roadside Service Junk Car Removal 617-387-6877 26 Garvey St., Everett MDPU 28003 ICCMC 251976 WASTE REMOVAL & BUILDING MAINTENANCE • Landscaping, Lawn Care, Mulching • Yard Waste & Rubbish Removal • Interior & Exterior Demolition (Old Decks, Fences, Pools, Sheds, etc.) • Appliance and Metal Pick-up • Construction and Estate Cleanouts • Pick-up Truck Load of Trash starting at $169 • Carpentry LICENSED & INSURED Call for FREE ESTIMATES! Office: (781) 233-2244 We follow Social Distancing Guidelines! FIRE • SOOT • WATER Homeowner’s Insurance Loss Specialists FREE CONSULTATION 1-877-SAL-SOOT Sal Barresi, Jr. - Your fi rst call 617-212-9050 J.F & Son Contracting Snow Plowing No Job too small! Free Estimates! Commercial & Residential 781-656-2078 - Property management & maintenance Shoveling & removal Landscaping, Electrical, Plumbing, Painting, Roofing, Carpentry, Framing, Decks, Fencing, Masonry, Demolition, Gut-outs, Junk Removal & Dispersal, Clean Ups: Yards, Garages, Attics & Basements. Truck for Hire, Bobcat Services. 617-387-2200 advertise on the web at www.advocatenews.net For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 617-387-2200 or Info@advocatenews.net Advocate Call now! Classifieds
THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 21, 2025 Page 23 Spacious & Well-Maintained Legal 3-Family Property in Everett Brand-New Move-In Ready Units in the Heart of Saugus Experience upscale living in the heart of Saugus with these brand-new, move-in-ready rental units. Designed for comfort and convenience, the community features fire pits, a pizza oven, outdoor lounges, a spacious community kitchen, a dog park, and resort-style pools—perfect for relaxation and entertainment. Residents also enjoy dedicated workspaces, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a yoga room. Contact us 617-394-8253 $3,300/month, Revere MA For Rent: Spacious 3-bed home with open layout, stainless steel appliances, and great natural light. Includes 2-car parking & fenced yard. Prime location. Call Sue to schedule a tour & details : 617-394-8253. $995,000 | Everett, MA OPEN HOUSE: SUN FEB 23 | 12-2PM For Sale: Spacious 3-Family Property in Everett. This well-maintained property features three spacious units, offering strong rental potential. Conveniently located near public transportation, shopping, and dining. Don't miss out on this rare find! Call Sue for more details or to schedule a tour: 617-877-4553. Things Just Got Real $2,800/month, Everett MA For Rent: First-floor, 1-bedroom apartment with easy access to Boston, the airport, and nearby public transportation. Utilities are separate, but water is included, for more information Call Norma: 617-590-9143. IN REAL ESTATE Saugus Real Estate Alert: Limited Inventory, High Demand! Only a few properties are currently on the market in Saugus, with an average list price of $1,349,000. With low inventory driving high demand, now is the perfect time to sell and maximize your property’s value. Curious about what your property is worth? Contact us for a free property valuation! 617-394-8253 | 781-558-1091 infowithmango@gmail.com 38 Main St, Saugus MA 563 Broadway, Everett MA $839,000 | Peabody, MA $1,800/month | Wakefield, MA For Sale: Fully renovated 5-bed, 2-bath brick split in West Peabody. Features new roof, baths, appliances, 200-amp service, high-efficiency heat, A/C, deck, and more. Low taxes & municipal electric. Prime location! Call Peter: 781-820-5690. For Rent: Sunny 2nd-floor 1-bed, eat-in kitchen, hardwood floors, assigned parking. Good credit, income verification, & references required. Call Sue for details & to schedule a tour : 617-394-8253. TRINITY REAL ESTATE 321 MAIN STREET | SAUGUS, MA | VILLAGE PARK TrinityHomesRE.com 25 Wicklow Ave Medford, MA List Price: $849,900 In much sought after Fellsway location, this charming 7-room Colonial home offers 4 bedrooms and 1.5 baths, blending classic character with some updates. With its great location and mix of charm and space, this home is ready for your finishing touches to move in and enjoy. Listing Agent: Annemarie Torcivia 781.983.5266 annemariet2008@gmail.com Providing Real Estate Services for Nearly Two Decades Servicing Saugus, Melrose, Wakefield, Malden, all North Shore communities, Boston and Beyond. 781.231.9800 The Trinity Real Estate Team Buy. Sell. Join.
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