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Vol. 33, No. 50 -FREEwww.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday 617-387-2200 Friday, December 13, 2024 ‘GREEN’ MEANS ‘GO’: Malden City Council unites, approves spending close to $7 million for major, citywide projects City legislators back Mayor’s request for reserve fund spending on traffic slowdown, infrastructure rehab work for roads, garages, park & school By Steve Freker M alden City Councillors united in support of a five-project list of key community initiatives totaling nearly $7 million Tuesday night. Addressing some pressing needs in several different areas of concern, the City Council unanimously backed a major investment requested by Mayor Gary Christenson, formally sending the quintet of initiatives forward. PROJECTS| SEE PAGE 10 GARAGE REPAIRS: The Malden City Council approved the expenditure of $1.5 million in funding for repairs and rehabilitation projects for the Jackson Street Garage and CBD Garage. (Courtesy/City of Malden) TRAFFIC CALMING: Speed tables, speed berms, speed “bumps” and other methods are all used to initiate traffic calming. The Malden City Council voted to approve $1.5 million in funding for this citywide project. (Courtesy Photo) Malden Public Schools central district administrators present results of DESE Accountability Report Malden ahead of peer districts, meets DESE targets in most areas, looking to improve absenteeism rates in all grades By Steve Freker T he Malden Public Schools are on par or ahead of their peer districts and meet state targeted expectations in most areas, including MCAS scoring, student absenteeism and high school graduation rates. There is still work to do and plans are in the works to address lagging numbers in district absenteeism in some grade levels, according to central administration representatives. That was the report given at a recent Malden School Committee meeting. SALEMWOOD SCHOOL PLAZA: The Malden City Council approved spending $500,000 to fix an ongoing safety hazard at the school involving the settling of the building. (Courtesy/City of Malden) Longtime Beebe teachers retire with a celebration It was basically a “Part Two” continuation of a report begun at the October School Committee meeting. The various areas of attention – which central administration addresses continually on a yearround basis – are all graded on a one-to-four scale by the state Department of Elementary and SecDESE| SEE PAGE 9 Pictured from left to right: Mayor Gary Christenson, Katie Valley, Tina Buonomo, Superintendent Tim Sippel. Special to The Advocate M ayor Gary Christenson and Superintendent of Schools Tim Sippel congratulated longtime Beebe School educators KaRETIRE| SEE PAGE 7

Page 2 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 CHA names new chief development officer Philanthropy leader Julie Sun will help expand fundraising strategies C ambridge Health Alliance (CHA), a community health system serving Cambridge, Somerville and Boston’s metro-north communities, has named Julie Sun as its new chief development officer. In this role, she will provide leadership for a growing development department and work on fundraising strategies to support CHA’s plan to improve population health, aid facilities development and expand its academic and clinical programs. In her new role as chief development officer and senior leader within CHA, Julie will work closely with CEO Assaad Sayah, MD, the CHA Foundation Board, clinical leadership and other stakeholders to meet developNeed 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! ment goals. Julie Sun comes to CHA from the University of Washington, where she served as chief advancement officer for the School of Social Work. She led all fundraising initiatives and alumni engagement for the School, surpassing UW’s Be Boundless $6 billion campaign goal. In collaboration with the Dean, faculty and campus partners, Julie secured $24.7 million to fund 415 fully funded scholarships to increase the mental and behavioral health workforce in the State of Washington and cross-sector collaboration with private funders, the state legislature and statewide higher education institutions. Prior to this role, she was the director for international development, West Coast major gifts, at Cornell University, where she was responsible for major donors in Asia, the West Coast and New York. She earned a bachelor’s degree in music and sociology from “With a strong commitment to CHA Chief Development Officer Julie Sun the University of Washington and a master’s degree in international studies with a concentration in international business from Ewha University in Seoul, South Korea. She is a leader in creating and building fundraising teams and infrastructure and is a seasoned frontline fundraiser, cultivating and securing seven-to-eight-figure gifts, implementing corporate and foundation fundraising and launching new and innovative fundraising programs. advancing DEI in the philanthropy and advancement sector, Julie has an impressive track record of successful fundraising to advance the field of social work in social justice, health equities, racial equities, and child and youth welfare,” said CHA Chief Financial Officer Jill Batty. “Her skills and knowledge are ideally suited to serve our patients and communities, and we are excited to welcome her to CHA.” CHA includes two hospital campuses, a network of primary care and specialty practices and the Cambridge Public Health Department. CHA patients have seamless access to advanced care through the system’s affiliation with Beth Israel Lahey Health. CHA is a Harvard Medical School teaching affiliate and is also affiliated with the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard School of Dental Medicine and Tufts University School of Medicine. Santa Claus is Coming to Town! Sunday, Dec. 15 at Pine Banks S anta Claus will once again take time out of his busy schedule at the North Pole to visit his headquarters at Pine Banks Park on Sunday, December 15, from 2-5:30 p.m. This is Santa’s 75th annual trip to see the good little boys and girls of Malden and Melrose! Santa will visit with chilwww.810bargrille.com dren to hear what they want for Christmas and will also pose for keepsake photos. Park Superintendent Brian Mulrenan along with the Pine Bank’s elves will be preparing Santa’s office and decorating the park with beautiful lights. Former Ward 5 Councillor Barbara Murphy and Santa’s helpers from Ward 5 will be serving delicious hot chocolate and cookies. Don’t miss your chance to let Santa know if you’ve been naughty or nice! Santa and Mrs. Claus with Mayor Gary Christenson

THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 Page 3 Sen. Lewis and Reps. Lipper-Garabedian and Vitolo announce bill to phase out the sale of nicotine and tobacco products (Photos Courtesy of Office of Senator Lewis) S tate Senator Jason Lewis and State Representatives Kate Lipper-Garabedian and Tommy Vitolo announced that they will be filing a bill in the 2025-26 legislative session to generationally phase out the legal sale of all nicotine and tobacco products in Massachusetts. This would replace the current age-based eligibility system with a requirement to be born before a specific date. The Massachusetts Legislature banned the sale of all flavored tobacco products in 2019, in part to reduce youth interest in nicotine and tobacco products. This bill would go further by gradually phasing out all sales of nicotine and tobacco products. Nicotine and tobacco products are highly addictive, and the use of these products increases the risk of lung cancer, heart disease, stroke and other illnesses. Hundreds of thousands of Americans die from smoking-attributable causes each year, and smoking continues to be the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the United States. The staggering economic cost of smoking in the country is an estimated $300 billion annually through a combination of healthcare costs and loss of productivity, straining the healthcare system and the economy as a whole. While nicotine use by youngsters is decreasing, 2.25 million middle and high school students reported current use of tobacco products in 2024, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease 10 adults who smoke daily first tried smoking by age 18. This bill would not take away Control and Prevention (CDC). Restricting their access to nicotine and tobacco products is critical to reducing overall usage and preventing the next generation from becoming addicted to these products. Roughly nine in the right to purchase nicotine and tobacco products from anyone who is already legally able to do so. Should this bill be signed into law, young people who are not currently old BILL | SEE PAGE 7 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, December 13, 2024 From Malden to Hudson Valley: Two strangers discover shared family legacy and hidden history of enslavement in New York Lawrence A. Simeone Jr. 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 By Kami Nguyen / Neighborhood View leanor Mire, a lifelong Malden resident, wanted to learn about her family’s past after she watched the Ken Burns documentary series, The Civil War. “I always point to that because E there was so much he put into that that I absolutely didn’t know, and I thought I knew about the Civil War,” Mire said. “That pushed me to start looking into my family and how they related to the Civil War, and that opened the floodgates.” HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Dan - 1972 Take Advantage of our Holiday Specials! Chris 2024 We Sell Cigars & Accessories! THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS HERE! MANY ITEMS ON SALE!! Cohiba Special: Five Cohiba Blue Churchill Cigars for Only $75. A Savings of $50! Or, a Box of Cohiba Blue Churchill Cigars Now Only $299. A Savings of $50! * Travel Humidors * Desk Top Humidors * Many Types of Lighters * Ash Trays * Juuls * Vapes * Glass Pipes * Rewards Program * CBD Infused Products * GIFTS UNDER $30 - GIFT CERTIFICATES HOURS: OPEN SUN. - WED. 9 AM - 6 PM / THURS. - SAT. 9 AM - 7 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 “Staatsburgh” - Debra Bruno (left) and Eleanor Mire at the Staatsburgh State Historic Site in Duchess County, NY. (Credit: Bob Davis) Mire’s ancestors are part of a myriad of individual family histories that have shaped the past, present, and future of the United States. Some stories are waiting to be told, truths yet to be discovered. In her new book, A Hudson Valley Reckoning, Debra Bruno reckons with her family history of slaveholding and the realities of slavery in northern states. At the center of this story are Mire’s ancestors, who were enslaved in the 1800s by Bruno’s ancestors in upstate New York. Mire’s great-grandparents on another side of her family moved to Malden in 1906 from Boston. They initially came to Massachusetts from Williamsburg, Virginia in 1826 after they were freed from Southern slavery by General Benjamin Butler, who himself was from Lowell. Mire and Bruno met in 2020 while researching their family histories. The serendipity of how they found each other led to a close friendship ever since. Going through some of the research that her cousin had already done pointed her to the area of Coxsackie in Hudson Valley, Mire recalled.She heard that someone was looking for information about enslavement in the Hudson Valley and connected with them through a Facebook page called “I’ve Traced My Enslaved Ancestors and Their Owners.” As fate would have it, that person turned out to be Bruno. The two met in person in Wash“Hudson Valley book cover” - The cover of Debra Bruno’s new book, ‘A Hudson Valley Reckoning’ features a photo of Mary Vanderzee, from whom Eleanor Mire is descended. In the book, Bruno reckons with her family history of slaveholding and the realities of slavery in northern states. (Credit: debrabruno.com) ington, D.C. where Bruno lives. “When we met it was like my long-lost sister. I mean, we just immediately clicked,” Mire said. In the genealogical world, people who meet don’t often keep in touch with one another, but Mire and Bruno, both history lovers, enjoyed researching together. “We had what we call rabbit holes. We’d find some bit of information and knowing that we really probably wouldn’t find anything substantive, we went looking anyway. The interest and the chase was there, trying to find out,” Mire said.

THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 Page 5 They found out through census records that Mire is a descendant of Mary Vanderzee, the woman in the photograph on the book’s cover. Mary was born into slavery or indenture in 1802 and was owned by people on Bruno’s family tree. From the ages of 13 to 19, she had four children, who were described as being mixedrace. One of them was Mire’s great-great-grandfather, Thomas Venderzee, who was born in 1815. In 1826, all slaves in New York were emancipated gradually through indentured servitude. However, Mary’s father had purchased his freedom seven years earlier in 1819. Miro and Bruno suspect he did so to help Mary secure her freedom from the household she worked for. In her adult life, she married and had more children. Even with modern databases such as Ancestry DNA, Mire acknowledged that in discovering history, there are still some things they will never know. “It said that she (Mary) had 11 children and we only know about five of them. And all I could think of was what happened to all those children?” she wondered. “That’s something that you go looking for and you probably will never find it. But that’s one of those things that brings you right back down to the feeling: what happened?” The story that did come together from those fragmented pieces of history deeply touched Mire and brought her closer to her family. Finding out this information was a process she described as being “remarkable”, and “sometimes overwhelming”. “It makes you feel all of a sudden 1800 isn’t that long ago,” she said. “All of a sudden, it’s much closer. The time is much closer, the people much closer, because you’re really seeing them and seeing their lives.” Mire also spoke about issues she sees in the way that history is taught in schools—concerned with memorizing dates and learning about the wealthy and powerful. She finds it more engaging and meaningful to explore the lives of real, everyday people, no matter how painful their stories are. “To just say they were slaves and then they were free doesn’t get to the heart of things like babies being sold and waking up and not knowing where you’re living,” she said. “You can’t just go on the good stories, the feel-good stories because I think in a sense, you’re denying them a certain amount of humanity by denying that they were sad. Things happened that hurt, but they lived through it and they had to persevere through it,” Mire said. A Hudson Valley Reckoning explores the often-overlooked history of slavery in New York, perpetuated by Dutch settlers since the state was called New Amsterdam. Mire provides the book’s afterword, having declined Bruno’s invitation to write the entirety of it together. Warm, funny, and straightforward, Mire admitted she would not be a good co-writer. “I’m very unreliable. To me, it would be like a year of homework, and I was never good at homework.” However, the story’s epilogue came to her organically. “I was able to sit down and do it. I don’t know how and I don’t know where the words came from, but since I had the feeling for the family and the subject matter, the words came,” she added. She hopes that the book inspires readers to look into their personal family histories, just as The Civil War did for her. “I think it’s important, not just for even enslavement, but for all groups of people to know how they got here, what the struggles of the people in the family [were].” The Malden Public Library will be hosting a talk with Deb Bruno and Eleanor Mire on Monday, December 9, from 6:00 – 7:00 PM in the library’s Maccario room. One can also attend the event via Zoom. Eleanor Mire will be present in person, while author Deb Bruno will participate via Zoom. Registration is required. Kami Nguyen is a contributing reporter for Neighborhood View, an online local new publication coordinated through Urban Media Arts. 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, December 13, 2024 ~ Malden Musings ~ A Menu of Memories: The Highland Café’s Timeless Taste of Malden By Peter Levine T he world we knew... Here we have (yet another) tribute to Malden’s iconic Highland Café and its indomitable General Manager (and much more) Dave Angelo. Through the marvels of modern technology, I am revisiting the delight I felt upon receiving a dogeared copy of an old Highland Café menu. Yes, here I am being a bit overly schmaltzy/ nostalgic, but if you knew the (old) Highland, you know the feeling of which I speak and will 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 kindly forgive the maudlin ramblings of former patrons in the September of their years... Little known fact department: Wyc Grousbeck sealed the deal for the purchase of the Boston Celtics back in 2002 at a booth at the Highland Café. But I digress... There’s a little piece of Malden that can never be erased, even by time. It’s woven into the fabric of old Edgeworth, where the air carried the sweet scent of Pearl Street Bakery’s bread, mingling with the hum of Tricca’s jukebox, the aroma of steak tips and roasted potatoes on the grill at Brandano’s and the crackling warmth of an oven baking the one and only Highland Café pizza. It’s a place that doesn’t live in history books, but in the hearts and minds of everyone who ever slid into one of those red vinyl booths or sat at the old bar with a cold Gansett and a heaping plate of veal cutlet parm. The Highland Café menu that I possess, somewhat torn and frayed, but still holding strong after all these years, is more than just a relic. It’s a time capsule, packed with stories – stories of who we were and what we loved. It’s a snapshot of a simpler time when the drinking age was 18 (a golden age for many!) and the Mass. meals tax was a sweet 5%, leaving just enough for an extra Vodka Collins at the bar. Back when a sirloin steak dinner could set you back $4, and you didn’t have to rob a bank for a fried clam dinner at $2.50. But it wasn’t just about the food – it was also the people. And the Highland had the kind of people you didn’t forget (mostly because you were probably related to one or two or most). Imagine this: the soft summer night air slipping through the Vintage framed Highland Café menu door, carrying with it the chatter of old-timers and strangers alike sitting at the bar, possibly running numbers, most likely talking nonsense, eating, drinking, swapping stories like old friends did, even if they’d never even met before. There was magic in the way it all seemed to come together. That was Malden in the 1960s (and beyond). That was the Highland. The ladies who made sure your coffee (and cocktails) never ran out – Anna Puleo, Donna Pitts, Lucy Lally, Jeannie Lamphier, Dianne Wishoski, Annette Magistro, Peggy Gennetti and Mary Cole (to name but a few) – weren’t just servers; they were MUSINGS| SEE PAGE 16 — Vinyl Siding — Carpentry Work — Decks — Roofing — Free Estimates — Replacement Windows — Fully Licensed — Fully Insured

THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 Page 7 BILL | FROM PAGE 3 enough to legally purchase nicotine and tobacco products will never be lawfully able to purchase these products in Massachusetts, thereby creating no more new users. The “Nicotine-Free Generation” bill recognizes the addictive nature of nicotine and tobacco products and will not impact those adults who are current consumers of these products. Rather, this legislation will protect future generations from nicotine addiction and the resulting health harms. In 2021 the Town of Brookline became the first municipality in the nation to pass a bylaw prohibiting the sale of all nicotine products to individuals born after January 1, 2000. Challenged by several local retailers, the bylaw was ultimately upheld by the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts. Following Brookline’s example, Concord, Malden, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Melrose, Reading, Stoneham, Wakefield and Winchester subsequently passed similar bylaws. Senator Lewis and Representatives Lipper-Garabedian and Vitolo recently hosted an event at the State House recognizing many of the advocates and public health professionals involved in passing and implementing these policies in their communities. “We all know the devastating health effects of nicotine and tobacco products, especially on our youth who are targeted by Big Tobacco,” said Senator Lewis. “This bill will save countless lives and create a healthier world for the next generation. I’m so proud that all six communities in my district have already enacted Nicotine-Free Generation policies at the local level, and I will fight to make this a statewide policy.” “Tobacco and nicotine use poses extreme health threats to people of all ages and particularly our youth,” said Representative Lipper-Garabedian. “I was proud to see all three communities in the 32nd Middlesex District pass Nicotine-Free Generation policies. Inspired by my local leaders, I’m glad to partner with Senator Lewis and Representative Vitolo to file state-level legislation to end the cycle of nicotine addiction and ensure our young people are protected from harmful products.” “America has allowed nicotine products like cigarettes to be sold for generations. These lawful products are so addictive that it would be unfair to take them away from long-time users. And, because they are so addictive, it would be unfair to allow those currently too young to lawfully purchase these products to ever do so. This legislation treats everyone fairly. Those who are not old enough now to obtain nicotine products will never be old enough to buy them in Massachusetts. Those who are old enough today will always be old enough,” said Representative Vitolo. “This problem is going to take a generation to solve, and with this legislation we can solve it, one day at a time.” RETIRE | FROM PAGE 1 tie Valley and Tina Buonomo on their retirements from the Malden Public Schools following a combined 70 years of making a difference to students in Malden. The Mayor presented Katie and Tina with citations on behalf of the City and wished them the best in their retirements! Katie has worked in the Malden schools for 38 years, beginning right out of college. She has taught at the Maplewood, Holmes, High School and Middle School and has been teaching in the middle school at the Beebe (as well as the original Beebe!) since it opened in 1999. Tina, a 32-year veteran with the schools, began as a paraprofessional and then worked as a teacher/administrator for the Partnership for Community Schools Program before serving as an administrative assistant. Like us on Facebook advocate newspaper Facebook.com/ Advocate.news.ma Bus Route Changes The fi rst phase of MBTA’s Bus Network Redesign starts December 15, 2024. Get ready! Learn how these routes will change: ALLSTON Learn More at MBTA.com/BNRPhase1 Sign up for T-Alerts at MBTA.com/SignUp BRIGHTON CENTER

Page 8 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 Congresswoman Clark visits Malden's ABCD Head Start, Bread of Life’s Food Pantry ahead of the holiday L ast week Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (Fifth District of Massachusetts) visited the Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD) Head Start in Malden to discuss the program’s transformative impact on local families and the need to defend this program from Republican budget cuts under of the Malden community and thanked volunteers for collecting, cooking and distributing turkeys to families in need this Thanksgiving. “Malden’s ABCD Head Start and Bread of Life Food Pantry are essential lifelines for MA-5 residents — providing nourishment and educational support Democratic Whip Katherine Clark is shown with children from ABCD Head Start in Malden last week.(Photos Courtesy Whip Clark’s Office) Democratic Whip Katherine Clark is shown speaking with Gabriella Snyder Stelmack Executive Director during a visit to Bread of Life food pantry last week. the new Trump administration. She also visited the Bread of Life Food Pantry for a tour of its new Eastern Avenue facility. There, she spoke with staff about their work to meet the growing needs for our kids and families,” said Whip Clark. “It is an honor to call these two vital organizations my partners as we work to make life easier for Bay Staters. Together, we will keep striving to ensure that families are provided for, children are cared for, and that opportunities are accessible to everyone.” ABCD President/CEO Sharon Scott-Chandler believes that Whip Clark’s efforts to protect Head Start help children to be prepared for school, and support families’ ability to work and the community’s ability to thrive, which are invaluable. “Head Start is a lifeline for children and families, with proven results,” she said. “We are truly thankful for Congresswoman Clark’s local and national leadership on behalf of ABCD’s Malden Head Start, our 28 other centers serving 2,000 children, and for children nationwide.” “Bread of Life is grateful for the commitment and advocacy of Whip Clark on behalf of food security so we can continue to provide food for thousands of families and senior citizens in our area,” said Bread of Life Executive Director Gabriella Snyder Stelmack. Malden Public Library showcases the artwork of Gurleen Anand in December G urleen Anand is the featured artist for the month of December and the library will be hosting an Artist Reception on Monday December 16, from 6-7 p.m., and everyone is welcome to attend. Gurleen Anand is a certiMARCHETTI CORP. 46 Years of Excellence!! 1978-2024 Regular Unleaded $2.839 Mid Unleaded $3.379 Super $3.479 Diesel Fuel $3.279 Gift Available! Hours: Monday thru Friday 6 AM to 7 PM / Saturdays 7 AM to 5 PM / Sundays 9 AM to 5 PM HEATING OIL ULS $4.759 $2.95 9 DEF Call for Current Price! (125—gallon minimum) DEF Available by Pump! 24-Hour Burner Service Open an account and order online at: fied art healer from the University of Florida and resides in Malden. Throughout her career, she has worked in the field of creativity and innovation. Anand works with a variety of mediums, to create art centered around mindfulness and recovery. She uses art therapy to help individuals heal and she hopes to use her art as a way to bring people of various backgrounds and works of life together. FLEET Prices subject to change

THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 Page 9 DESE | FROM PAGE 1 ondary Education (DESE). The report was presented by Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning Komal Bhasin and Assistant Superintendent for Student Services Pamela MacDonald, presenting for the district, with Superintendent of Schools Dr. Timothy Sippel. Most of the numbers and statistics were compared to those compiled in the first full school year considered “Post-Pandemic,” 2021-22. The administrators also said the numbers – particularly graduation rates – were from the 2022-23 school year, as the grading aspect was not applied to the most recent calendar graduation year, which would be the 2023-24 school year. The central administrators noted that the Malden Public Schools district saw improvement in high school areas, such as graduation rates and “extended engagement rates,” while dropout rates stayed stable in some student groupings while it increased in others by a small percentage. Extended engagement rates graded The extended engagement rate is the number of students who end up graduating from high school when they participate in either mainstream or alternative programs for a five-year period rather than the traditional fouryear course of studies. Assistant Superintendent Bhasin reported that Malden’s rates of success in this particular area surpassed all of the peer districts and was very close to the state standard of expectations. Included were significant increases in individual groupings of students with disabilities, Black students and students of Hispanic/Latino background. Malden’s peer districts are listed as Everett, Lowell, Brockton, Waltham and Revere. In this extended engagement graded area, Malden received a full four points – maximum assessed – for its success. In the graded area of chronic absenteeism, where “chronic” is defined as being marked absent from school 18 days in a 180-day school year (10% minimum), Bhasin reported, “In grades 1-8, we hit [all the] DESE targets assigned and reduced absenteeism in all grades.” Here, again, Malden also received four of a possible four graded points. At the high school level, Bhasin said, Malden High School also showed a decrease in chronic absenteeism from 2021-22 [post-pandemic] and “comparable levels shown by all of Malden’s peer districts.” Bhasin added that the Malden district received four of four points in the accountability grading standards. She said that Malden would be striving to improve those absenteeism numbers since about a third of MHS students are listed in the absenteeism group of being marked absent 18 or more days per school year. “We want to reduce those numbers and hold ourselves to a higher bar as absenteeism does not allow students to progress to their academic potential,” Bhasin said. Following the presentation, when the School Committee members asked questions of the administrators, Chairperson and Mayor Gary Christenson thanked the Assistant Superintendents for “a comprehensive, detailed report we could all follow and understand.” Absenteeism of students and teachers In the area of high school absenteeism, School Committee Vice Chairperson Jennifer Spadafora, whose two sons are now Malden High School students, said she saw a correlation between student absenteeism and teacher absenteeism. “I feel like we have a chronic absenteeism issue [with students] that correlates with teacher absenteeism, because we have students who may see the teacher absentee list before school and say, ‘Three of my teachers are out today, why go to school today?’” Assistant Superintendent MacDonald replied, citing some information gleaned from research in her previous district, the Haverhill Public Schools. “I agree. Studies show a relationship between teacher attendance and students’ attendance. In Haverhill, she recalled, “We [did research] and saw a lot of our teachers were out on Fridays, so a lot of our high school students were also out of school on Fridays.” At the meeting, following Assistant Superintendent Bhasin’s presentation, Assistant Superintendent MacDonald gave a detailed summation on “next steps” Malden Public Schools would be taking immediately in response to the DESE Accountability Report. She told the School Committee that Superintendent Sippel has been holding many listening sessions with staff as well as “town hall” meetings with various stakeholders at individual schools as well as with interest groups, such as the Special Education Parent Action Committee (SEPAC), the latter a well-attended Town Hall held at the Salemwood K-8 School. Supt. Sippel has also been holding a number of strategic planning sessions for the upcoming calendar year 2025 (and second half of the academic year), MacDonald reported. She also revealed a planned expansion and redesignation of the Early College Program, which will offer students more opportunities to take Advanced Courses, specifically college-level courses, in collaboration with Bunker Hill Community College (BHCC). “This will allow us to include a more diverse group of students to participate in this early college program,” she said. As for next steps in the area of Student Monitoring and Intervention – primarily at-risk students who may be in the umbrella of MCAS testing result issues, in dropout or graduation requirement danger and others – Assistant Superintendent MacDonald spoke of available programs: some existing, some being added to the resource list. Student Monitoring and Intervention These include: —Tutoring for those students who may have to retake the MCAS test —Targeted instruction and post-secondary planning assistance for at-risk students in need of support toward high school graduation (Acceleration Academy) —Additional targeted intervention for students at-risk for either dropping out or not graduating on time (Saturday School, where live teachers in all subjects are available 9 a.m.-noon at Malden High to assist students in catching up assignments at no charge to students’ families) “We want to make sure we are playing the long game, as well as addressing our students’ needs right now,” MacDonald said. All individual district gradings are available on the DESE website for Malden and all other communities in Massachusetts at www. doe.ma.edu He’s Back...and Better Than Ever! John A. 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Page 10 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 PROJECTS| FROM PAGE 1 Funding for the five projects will come from the city’s revenue reserve account – known as the “free cash fund.” In October, the Mass. Department of Revenue (DOR) certified Malden’s fund at $27 million. These funds are deemed available for appropriation by the DOR. Mayor Christenson, in a formal spending request letter to the Council, outlined five key projects in the community which, he wrote, “We think it’s prudent to do so with this appropriation to avoid borrowing and maintain that capacity for other requirements.” Malden Councillor-at-Large Carey McDonald echoed the Mayor’s remarks at both the Council’s Finance Committee meeting (which he chairs) last week and again at Tuesday’s regular meeting, basically breaking it down to “time is of the essence.” “Why do we have to do [these projects] now? We know that some may be saying, ‘why don’t we wait until the next budget process’ to see where we are at financially,” Councillor McDonald said. “The answer is, it’s all about the timing of the construction bids. We have to get these projects out to bid early in the new year [2025] before the construction season.” All five of the following expenditures were voted to be approved unanimously, 11-0, by the full City Council. Voting in favor to spend the $6.8 million were: Councillors-at-Large Karen Colón Hayes, Carey McDonald and Craig Spadafora – also Peg Crowe (Ward 1), Paul Condon (Ward 2), Amanda Linehan (Ward 3), Ryan O’Malley (Ward 4), Ari Taylor (Ward 5), Council President Stephen Winslow (Ward 6), Chris Simonelli (Ward 7) and Jadeane Sica (Ward 8). All of these synopses are from Mayor Christenson’s formal spending request letter: —Road Repaving, $2.0 million: Funds will allow continuation of road rehabilitation and repair and address roadwork citywide. This work has been very well received by our residents. — Maplewood Park, $2.5 million: This playing surface has reached the end of its life. The field no longer passes the various applicable tests. This figure is a budget figure that will be further informed by a design. The scope is a “rip and replace,” not a complete park makeover. The draining and other infrastructure beneath the playing surface would remain in place with no need to dig it up and replace any of it. —Malden Center Garage Improvements, $1.5 million: As part of the continued work to address deferred structural work, these funds will allow our team to put together the next phase. This is a budget number that will allow us to address the next most pressing needs at CBD and Jackson Street as we continue to rehab these facilities that are vital to our downtown. —Salemwood School Plaza, $500,000: We have identified three options to address the settled plaza at Salemwood K-8 School and we believe this amount will allow us to proceed with the option recommended by our consultants. This option attributes the settling to the initial construction and doesn’t call for additional structural support to the plaza. The plaza would be completely replaced with these funds. —Traffic Calming Initiatives, $300,000: Funds will provide us with necessary resources to implement traffic calming initiatives at key locations citywide. The Neighborways initiative has provided us with key data to help make decisions regarding prioritization. With the hiring of a traffic planner, having funds available to implement some of the projects will be critical. When describing each of these initiatives to his colleagues and for those following the meeting in the audience and in the public, Councillor McDonald had specific remarks for each. He noted that the overall cost of rehabilitating all of Malden’s streets is estimated at $37 million in various reports and surveys. “We try and do some more roads every year and with these funds we can take a bite out that,” Councillor McDonald said. “This is a very popular item with [our constituents] and it gets more expensive the longer we wait.” McDonald said the city intends on repairing – up to repaving – 12 to 24 streets per year and the allocation voted Tuesday night would be used along with about $1 million in state funds. On the Maplewood Park project, McDonald noted that the plan calls for a redesign of the field space to potentially add a full soccer/lacrosse field, “which is key to our portfolio of youth sports facilities in the city.” McDonald also pointed out that talks are already underway with Malden Catholic High School leaders about future use of the field by that school’s student-athletes. The school is located directly adjacent to Maplewood Park, and “Malden Catholic has been a primary user in the past” with a special permit and fees associated with the field’s use. The Traffic Calming Initiatives is another project that is ongoing around the city, McDonald said. “We are continually working citywide to slow down cars and protect our citizens: with strollers, senior citizens in wheelchairs, pedestrians. “The $300,000 does not fix everything. It costs about $15,000 to install a speed bump and well into six figures to reconfigure an intersection, but these funds – along with a new transportation planner coming on board – will allow us to invest more in the future,” McDonald said. “It is no magic number, but we propose here is a good place to start.” “I’m sure the city and the OSPCD [Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development] will find a way to leverage this allocation with matching funds and possibly turn this $300,000 into $1 million for these initiatives, which are much needed,” said Ward 4 Councillor Ryan O’Malley, who wielded the gavel as Council President Tuesday night on several occasions when sitting President Stephen Winslow (Ward 6) handed it off to speak on various issues. “This is a great step,” Winslow said of the Traffic Calming funding approved Tuesday. “The Mayor understands we are concerned about this issue in every one of our wards.” The garage repairs funding for the dual downtown facilities – Jackson Street Garage and Central Business District (CBD) Garage – was another example of taking a fixed amount of funding ($1.5 million) and using it toward an ongoing project with a much higher overall price tag. McDonald noted that the newest report estimated the total cost of full repairs to the aging, Malden Redevelopment Authority (MRA)owned garages is about $7 million. “The garages are stable, but there is a significant amount of cost out there for delayed maintenance,” McDonald told his colleagues. “It’s been a tough time in Malden Square [generating garage revenue] with more workers still not returning to offices post-pandemic and the loss of DESE, whose workers used a significant number of parking spots.” “The $1.5 million represents the lowest, rough estimate amount of funding required to start any meaningful project at the site,” Councillor McDonald said. The Salemwood School Plaza repair project for $500,000 was the best, most cost-effective option, which involves replacing a pad underneath the surface of the plaza with a bigger pad, which McDonald explained would counteract, for now, a longtime hazard at that site, where the building is settling at a particular place on the plaza, causing a noticeable gap on the plaza itself. “It’s a major safety hazard,” Councillor McDonald, whose own child attends the Salemwood School, said. “My kid almost took a spill. This is the cheapest option. Other plans would have cost twice or three times as much.” With the funds now approved to be allocated for these projects, construction bids are now set to be posted immediately, and most of this work is expected to be started and completed in 2025. Like us on Facebook advocate newspaper Facebook.com/ Advocate.news.ma

THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 Page 11 Middlesex Sheriff’s Office releases new PSA video on arrest scams T he Middlesex Sheriff’s Office (MSO) is continuing to raise awareness about ongoing arrest scams with the release of a new Public Service Announcement (PSA). The video highlights red flags to be aware of and reminds the public of ways to protect themselves and their loved ones. The MSO continues to field calls almost daily from residents targeted over the phone by scammers claiming to be members of the MSO and other law enforcement agencies. These scammers often demand payment using gift cards, cryptocurrency or wire transfers for things like failing to appear for jury duty or pay taxes. The PSA emphasizes that legitimate law enforcement professionals: • Never contact you over the phone to pay nonexistent fines or fees for things like missing jury duty • Never request you pay fines or fees using unconventional methods of payment, like gift cards • Never ask for your bank account information or social security information “Scammers continue to prey on our communities by posing as trusted members of law enforcement,” said Middlesex Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian. “While we and our colleagues have sought to get the word out about these scams in recent years, we hope this new video PSA will serve as an additional reminder that legitimate law enforcement will never act in this manner.” The MSO encourages the community to watch the PSA on its website – www.middlesexsheriff.org – or social media channels and share it with their loved ones. If you believe you have been targeted by a scam, please contact your local police or sheriff’s office immediately. As part of the MSO’s Law Enforcement and Residents Networking (LEARN) initiative, the MSO is proud to provide presentations to the community that cover the common and emerging scams targeting residents, tips to avoid falling victim to scammers and red flags to look out for. Organizations that are interested in hosting a presentation can contact the MSO’s Director of Community Affairs, Ken Doucette, at KDoucette@sdm.state.ma.us for more information. Help us keep your letter carriers safe S now in New England can be a beautiful sight as it glistens on the lawn, decorates tree limbs and adds a sense of wonder to the holidays. It can come as a blessing for skiers, plow drivers and kids yearning for a school-free snow day. But for postal letter carriers and other delivery personnel, it can be a nightmare. Icy walkways, wet leaves and rakes, toys or other trip hazards hidden under the snow can cause injury to a carrier trying to navigate a path to your mailbox. Keeping your walkway clear of snow, ice and other obstacles can not only protect people delivering to your home, but it can also help you avoid potential insurance claims or lawsuits resulting from slip and fall injuries sustained on your property. Likewise, if your home is serviced by a curbside mailbox, keeping a clear path to and from your box is each homeowner’s responsibility. Letter carriers are committed to delivering to every address every day, provided that it’s safe to do so. With your help creating a safe environment, we can keep the mail moving and make sure everyone gets home safely at the end of the day. On behalf of the more than 660,000 postal employees nationwide, we wish you a Joyous Holiday Season and a Happy and Healthy New Year. S Sen. Lewis announces December Office Hours tate Senator Jason Lewis will be holding virtual Office Hours on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, from 2-3 p.m. on Zoom for district residents who would like to meet with him. For further information or any questions, visit SenatorJasonLewis.com or contact his office at 617-722-1206 or Jason.Lewis@masenate.gov. 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! TONY’S AUTO BODY Call or Visit 781-321-0032 34 Sharon Street Malden, MA 02148 TONYSAUTOBODYLLC.COM COME VISIT OUR STATE OF THE ART BODY SHOP • Computerized Paint Matching (State of the Art Spray Booth) • Computerized Frame Machines • P.P.G. Refinishing System • R134 + 1234yf A/C Machines Fully Insured -RS2415 Insurance Company Approval ALL OUR WORK IS GUARANTEED! TONY BARTOLO Owner 46 Years Let Us Handle Your Next Insurance Claim. Go With the BEST It Doesn’t Get BETTER! RENTAL CARS Available

Page 12 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 ~ Mystic Valley Regional Charter School Sports ~ Volleyball, Girls Soccer and Boys Soccer Claim All-Star Awards By Emily Brennan M ystic Valley Regional Charter School student-athletes were cited by the Commonwealth Athletic Conference (CAC) for achieving AllStar status. This past season the girls’ soccer team, volleyball and boys’ soccer team each qualified for Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association Tournament play. Junior Lucia Antonucci was a dominant force on the girls’ soccer team once again this fall, winning the CAC MVP for the second year in a row. Antonucci led the league in goals scored, finishing the season with a total of 34 goals and 11 assists. The future certainly looks bright for Eagles athletics, as of the nine honorees, just two are seniors. The following is a complete listing of the student-athletes lauded by the CAC for their outstanding play as selected by league coaches and administrators. Boys Soccer Liam Powers Cameron Martins Wesley Rosell Girls Soccer Julia Kerans Abby Ssewankambo Lucia Antonucci (MVP) Volleyball Fransabelle DaSilva Anna Batista Maraki Belayneh Cameron Martins, Wesley Rosell and Liam Powers Fransabelle DaSilva, Maraki Belayneh and Anna Batista Julia Kerans, Lucia Antonucci, Abby Ssewankambo and Head Coach Katie Morales

THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 Page 13 ~ Mystic Valley Regional Charter School Eagles Sports ~ Mystic Valley’s Lucia Antonucci named CAC MVP By Emile Brennan L ucia Antonucci, a junior at Mystic Valley Regional Charter School, was named the Most Valuable Player in the Girls Soccer Commonwealth Athletic Conference (CAC) for the second consecutive season. She finished the season with 34 goals and 11 assists – leading the league in points. “Lucia has had another fantastic season, finishing with 34 goals and 11 assists, the most in the Commonwealth league,” said her coach, Katie Morales. “She’s been an incredible asset to the team, and we’re proud of her accomplishments. We look forward to what her senior year will bring as one of our captains.” Lucia possesses a combination of technical, physical and mental skills. Known for her excellent ball control, spatial awareness and consistency, she often stands out as the most exciting and eye-catching player on the field. While Lucia’s skills are undeniable, it’s her determination, positivity and support for her teammates that truly set her apart. She has been a driving force for the Mystic Valley girls’ soccer team, and her spirit and excellence make her well deserving of the MVP honor. As Lucia looks ahead to her senior season in 2025, the Mystic Valley community eagerly anticipates another year of her talent and leadership. Lucia Antonucci and Head Coach Katie Morales Athletic Director Eric Martin, Lucia Antonucci and Head Coach Katie Morales Like us on Facebook advocate newspaper Facebook.com/ Advocate.news.ma

Page 14 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 Winter is coming, but Malden High Winter Sports Season is already here! Good luck to all of our teams as they kick off their seasons this week By Charlie Conefrey T hose brisk December mornings we have had recently tell the tale very well: Winter is coming! It may not have arrived yet officially on the calendar, but it seems like it is already here. What is definitely here already is the Winter Season for high school athletics, and this is the time of year when it is a very quick transition, especially for those who are members of the football team. We just got finished with our final football game of the season, a Thanksgiving Classic against Medford on November 28, and we are now right into Game Week, starting a new season with our Winter teams. All of our Tornado teams have been working hard and preparing for the new season whether it’s on the court, track, mat or in the pool. Regular season competition begins this week in several of our sports and everyone is excited to get started. Winter season is regarded as one of the most rigorous, since in addition to the actual event competition there is the added factor of weather that is both unpredictable and, at times, extreme, due to cold and snow. As Winter Season has arrived, we advise all of our student-athletes to pay close attention to their health and well-being in ways they can control, such as dressing properly for the outside weather, continuing to address their nutritional needs and also making sure they get sufficient sleep. Most games are in the late afternoon and early evening so the majority of our days, as well as the teams’ practices and games, begin and end in darkness. Wrapping up the Fall Season with our last Varsity Football game, the Malden High School Athletic Department would like to commend the extra efforts of the Football Cheerleaders and the MHS Band, Director Lauren Foley and student “maestro” Sean Retotal at the games this year, for helping create a very positive, traditional atmosphere for our football team, coaches and fans. Thanks also to the staff at Macdonald StaCharlie Conefrey MHS Director of Athletics dium, Recreation Coordinator Joe Levine and Laura Perez and their assistants, who hosted the Football Team. Lastly, thanks for the folks who staffed the Football and Girls Volleyball games, starting with MHS Principal Chris Mastrangelo, Jenkins Principal Jayson Payeur, Jeanne Marquardo and all the rest, who worked Malden High School Athletic Schedule Thursday, December 12 3:30 p.m. – Varsity Coed Swimming at Medford, Medford HS Pool 4:00 p.m. – Freshman Boys Basketball at Chelsea, Blue Gym 4:30 p.m. – JV Boys Basketball at Chelsea, HS Gym 4:30 p.m. – JV Girls Basketball vs. Chelsea, Finn Gym, Malden 6:00 p.m. – Varsity Boys Basketball at Chelsea, HS Gym 6:00 p.m. – Varsity Girls Basketball vs. Chelsea, Finn Gym, Malden Friday, December 13 No events Saturday, December 14 9:00 a.m. Wilmington Tournament, Wilmington High School Sunday, December 15 No events Monday, December 16 4:00 p.m. – Middle School Boys Basketball vs. Revere, Beebe School, Malden 5:00 p.m. – Middle School Boys Basketball vs. Revere, Beebe School, Malden Tuesday, December 17 5:00 p.m. – Varsity Coed Swimming at Lynn Classical, Lynn Tech Pool Wednesday, December 18 4:00 p.m. – Middle School Boys Basketball vs. Revere, Beebe School, Malden 5:00 p.m. – Middle School Boys Basketball vs. Revere, Beebe School, Malden Thursday, December 19 4:00 p.m. – Freshman Boys Basketball at Medford 5:00 p.m. – JV Girls Basketball at Somerville 5:30 p.m. – JV Boys Basketball at Medford 5:30 p.m. – Varsity Coed Swimming at Mystic Valley Invitational, Mystic Valley Fieldhouse, Malden 6:00 p.m. – Varsity Wrestling vs. Cambridge Rindge & Latin, Finn Gym, Malden 6:30 p.m. – Varsity Girls Basketball at Somerville 7:00 p.m. – Varsity Boys Basketball at Medford 7:30 p.m. – Varsity Boys and Girls Indoor Track vs. Everett, Medford, Chelsea, Somerville and Lynn Classical, Reggie Lewis Center, Boston Friday, December 20 No events Saturday, December 21 9:00 a.m. – Varsity Wrestling at Wayland High Tournament, Wayland High School 10:00 a.m. – Freshman Girls Basketball at Greater Lawrence Tech together to keep the site welcoming and safe for all! Special thanks to Malden Superintendent of Schools Dr. Timothy Sippel and Assistant Superintendent Komal Bhasin and her family, all for making it to several football games to cheer on our Tornados. Let’s give a big NEDLAM roar as well for Peter Carroll, who this past season marked his 52nd year on the Malden High Football staff, handling equipment and game filming for his 7th Head Coach. Pete handled the ceremonial coin toss as Game #137 in fantastic fashion on Thanksgiving morning. Good luck to all our players, coaches and teams this week. GO MALDEN! Charlie Conefrey is in his ninth year as Director of Athletics, Wellness and Physical Education for the Malden Public Schools.

THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 Page 15 ber approved Ballot Question 1 asking them if they favor allowing the state auditor to audit the Beacon Hill Roll Call By Bob Katzen GET A FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO MASSTERLIST – Join more than 22,000 people, from movers and shakers to political junkies and interested citizens, who start their weekday morning with MASSterList—the popular newsletter that chronicles news and informed analysis about what’s going on up on Beacon Hill, in Massachusetts politics, policy, media and influence. The stories are drawn from major news organizations as well as specialized publications. MASSterlist will be e-mailed to you FREE every Monday through Friday morning and will give you a leg up on what’s happening in the blood sport of Bay State politics. For more information and to get your free subscription, go to: https://massterlist.com/subscribe/ THE HOUSE AND SENATE: Beacon Hill Roll Call records local representatives’ votes on roll calls from budget vetoes by Gov. Maura Healey. There were no roll calls in the House or Senate last week. $3 MILLION FOR EDUCATION OF EARLY EDUCATORS (H 4800) House 154-2, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of $3 million (reducing funding from $8 million to $5 million) for a program that provides professional development and higher education opportunities and supports for statewide recruitment and training needs of early educators. “I am reducing this item to the amount projected to be necessary,” said Healey in her veto message."Due to substantial resources made available in this budget for MassEducate, critical wraparound supports for students and new early educator scholarship and loan forgiveness programs, the portion of funding vetoed here is no longer needed to meet the purpose of this item.” The Senate did not act on the veto so the veto stands and the $3 million was eliminated. (A “Yes” vote is for the $3 million. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. Paul Donato Yes Rep. Steven Ultrino Yes $300,000 FOR UMASS CENTER IN SPRINGFIELD (H 4800) House 134-24, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of the $300,000 for a reserve fund for the UMass Center in Springfield, a satellite of UMass Amherst, where academic programming is offered. Healey said the veto brought the budget for this line-item back in line with her fiscal 2025 budget recommendation and what the administration understood to be necessary for the operation of the center in fiscal 2025. The Senate did not act on the veto so the veto stands and the $300,000 was eliminated. Sen. Adam Gomez and Reps. Carlos Gonzalez and Orlando Ramos, the three legislators who represent different parts of Springfield, did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking them to comment on the veto and override by the House and why the Senate did not act on the override, resulting in the loss of $300,000. (A “Yes” vote is for the $300,000. A “No” vote is against it.) Rep. Paul Donato Yes Rep. Steven Ultrino Yes ALSO UP ON BEACON HILL AUDIT THE LEGISLATURE – State Auditor Diana DiZoglio sent a letter last week to top Beacon Hill Democrats, including House Speaker Ron Mariano (D-Quincy) and Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland), demanding that they comply with her plans for an audit of the Legislature. DiZoglio’s letter comes after voters in NovemLegislature. “Our audit will cover all of the topics we were unable to fully review in our previous audit, due to your [earlier] refusal to participate in the audit process,” wrote DiZoglio. “Our work will start with a review of high-risk areas, such as state contracting and procurement procedures, the use of taxpayer-funded nondisclosure agreements and a review of your balance forward line item - including a review of all relevant financial receipts and information.” Mariano’s opposition to the audit goes back several years. In March 2023, he said in a letter to DiZoglio, “That your office has the legal authority to conduct an audit of the General Court is a claim entirely without legal support or precedent, as it runs contrary to multiple, explicit provisions of the Massachusetts Constitution and is wholly unnecessary as the public currently has full and ready access to the House's financial information.” A new debate began last week about when the voter-approved law actually takes effect. DiZoglio at a press conference said that it takes effect on Dec. 5, marking 30 days from the November 5th election. Secretary of State Bill Galvin disagrees and maintains the law takes effect on January 4th -- 30 days from the December 4 certification of the November election results. RAISE THE REQUIRED MINIMUM AUTO INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR PROPERTY DAMAGE AND BODILY INJURY (H 5100) – The Senate adopted and sent to the House a Gov. Healey amendment changing the effective date of a new law that increases the minimum amount of liability auto insurance a driver must purchase, from $5,000 for property damage to $30,000; and for bodily injury from $20,000 per person/$40,000 per accident to $25,000/$50,000. The law approved by the Legislature was scheduled to take effect immediately. Healy’s amendment would delay the effective date to July 1, 2025. Gov. Healey said she supports the increases. “The current amounts have not been updated in over 30 years and the proposed increases would provide meaningful coverage for those who experience personal injury or property damage due to a motor vehicle accident,” said Healey. “But I also recognize that the language as currently drafted would become effective immediately upon my signature, providing insurance companies inadequate time for implementation. Insurers must update current policies and submit new forms and rates to the Commissioner of Insurance for review and approval before implementing these changes. Based on feedback from industry stakeholders, pushing out the effective date to July 1, 2025 will ensure that these changes take place in an orderly way.” $294.8 MILLION FOR CLEAN WATER - The Massachusetts Clean Water Trust approved $294.8 million in new low-interest loans and grants to help communities build or replace water infrastructure that enhances ground and surface water resources. Supporters said the funds will ensures the safety of drinking water, protect public health and develop resilient communities. $5 MILLION TO PROTECT FOREST LANDS - The Healey Administration announced more than $5 million in grants to protect forest land which will be managed as reserves. These projects are designed to fight climate change and allow forests to mature, strengthening how these habitats store carbon. The grant program, a result of the Forest as Climate Solutions Initiative, aims to designate 10 percent of Massachusetts forests as reserves, where active management is limited and natural processes play out. “Forests are our best natural carbon sinks,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “As trees age, they absorb and store more carbon dioxide – crucial in helping us fight climate change. By supporting community and land trust efforts to limit land conversion and increase permanent land conservation, we are preserving forests for generations to come.” “Few things are more important than protecting our environment, and I'm elated that our state is preserving these beautiful pieces of land in Ashland and around the entire commonwealth," said Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland). TEACHER OF THE YEAR - Gov. Healey announced that that Luisa Sparrow, a special education teacher for fifth- and sixth-grade students at the Oliver Hazard Perry School in South Boston, is the 2025 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year. The Massachusetts Teacher of the Year is the state’s top award for educators and annually recognizes excellence in teaching across Massachusetts through the selection of a teacher who exemplifies the dedication, commitment and positive contributions of educators statewide. The award is sponsored by Wellpoint, a Woburn-based health benefits company which is giving a $10,000 grant to Sparrow’s school. “My mom was a school nurse and my stepdad was a public school teacher, so I have a deep appreciation for the incredible work that our educators and staff do day in and day out for their students,” said Gov. Healey. “It was so special to have the opportunity to congratulate and celebrate Ms. Sparrow today for her commitment to creating an inclusive learning environment that helps all of her students grow and succeed together.” “Ms. Sparrow is an example of the exceptional educators we have in Massachusetts who go above and beyond to support all of their students and foster an inclusive learning environment,” said Education Secretary Patrick Tutwiler. “It’s a pleasure to celebrate with her, her dedicated team, students and school community today.” “My students, just like all others with significant disabilities, deserve the opportunity to learn alongside their neurotypical peers not because they are able do many of the same tasks, but simply because everyone deserves a chance to belong,” Sparrow said upon accepting the award. UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE - The Massachusetts Campaign for Single Payer Health Care (MassCare) announced the official results of its Question 6 (or 7), depending on the district, which was on the November ballot in BHRC| SEE PAGE 18

Page 16 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 Francis Donald ‘Don’ Cochran, of Malden, 88; as former Commissioner, helped modernize Mass. Probation Department A Xaverian Brother, teacher and Athletic Director at Malden Catholic in 1960s, National Probation Executives President, professor at Northeastern By Ron Cochran F rancis Donald Cochran, known to many as Don, passed away on November 8, 2024, at the age of 86 while living at Forestdale Park Senior Living in Malden. A quiet yet transformative figure in the field of criminal justice, Don’s career left an indelible mark on the probation system in Massachusetts and beyond. His legacy is one of leadership, innovation and unwavering dedication to public service. Born on November 1, 1938, in the Winter Hill neighborhood of Somerville, Massachusetts, Don’s life was grounded in humility and purpose. After graduating from Somerville High School, he worked at the Stride Rite shoe factory in Roxbury before heeding a deeper calling to join the Xaverian Brotherhood. As a Xaverian Brother, Don became a teacher and Athletic Director at Malden Catholic High School in the 1960s, mentoring students and instilling in them MUSINGS | FROM PAGE 6 the heartbeat of the place. You didn’t just get a meal; you got the feeling you were part of something larger, something warm and unspoken. A smile, a quick chat, a wisecrack or two and the knowledge that these were the women who would bring your meal to you with love – served with a side of endearment, even before you took your first bite. The regulars who gave the place “character,” such as Paul “Smokey” Cole, Jimmy Damiano, Billy Gordon, Tommy Walsh from the Gas Company, Johnny Kerrigan, Tommy Bennett and, of course, Walter Hook, whose claim to fame was being one of the arresting officers of the alleged Boston Strangler Albert DeSalvo. And let’s be real Maldonia – once again, how could we ever forget that famous Highland pizza? The signature dish that put the Highland on the map – so sacred that Dave Angelo guards Francis Donald ‘Don’ Cochran (Courtesy photo) the values of discipline and perseverance. He eventually left the Brotherhood and later married Maureen Callahan, a nurse and former nun who had served as a community health nurse in the Bronx. Together, they shared 48 years of marriage. Don’s contributions to the criminal justice field are monumental. Over 26 years in the Massachusetts Probation Department, including 12 years as Commissioner, Don led the the recipe today like it’s a family heirloom. A large cheese pizza for $2.60? Unheard of. Extra toppings for 35 cents? You could practically build your dream pie for pocket change. But it wasn’t just the price. It was the taste – that taste, which lived somewhere between crispy, golden perfection and warm, gooey comfort. A pizza baked from an oven so ancient, it practically whispered secrets of every plate that had ever been slid out onto that countertop (truth be told, many of them were mine!). Those nights sitting at the bar – cold Schlitz in hand, the heat of that pie searing the air – felt like you were part of something that would never end. A slow, steady buzz filled the air as the best bartenders in Malden – Paul Gennetti, Ernie Ardolino Sr., Kevin Hanley, Pete Trabucco, Richie Morando, John Puleo, Jimmy Cahill and the one and only Dave Angelo – served drinks that felt like history itself. A Beefeater Martini, Scarlett O’Hara modernization of the probation system. Under his leadership, the department transitioned from outdated, manual processes to a streamlined, computerized database of criminal records, freeing probation officers to focus on direct supervision and rehabilitation of offenders. This shift revolutionized how probation was managed, earning Massachusetts national recognition for its forward-thinking approach. An influential national figure, Don served two terms as President of the National Association of Probation Executives and authored numerous articles in prestigious journals, such as JAMA, Federal Probation Journal and the Journal of Crime and Delinquency. His work on initiatives like “Operation Nightlight,” which paired police officers with probation officers to enforce curfews and reduce recidivism, became a model for other states. Even during his tenure, the media noted his quiet demeanor and preference for action over accolades. As one or a Sloe Gin Fizz – all poured with skill – each one an invitation to forget the outside world and sink into the world that existed only inside the Highland, a world where one phone call, by one bartender to his wife, will live in infamy, forever etched into our collective consciousness until death do us part. Insert a great big smiley face. And the food!? It was the kind of food that was more than just a meal; it was a symbol of comfort, of home and of those unforgettable nights. A time and a place we will never, ever forget. There was a rhythm to it all: the familiar faces, the classic hits on the jukebox – ”Feelings” by Morris Albert, “Rhinestone Cowboy” by Glen Campbell, “It Only Takes a Minute” by Tavares – and the jibber-jabber of old friends swapping stories after a game of hoop, bocce or softball. Those were the moments that defined the space, made it sacred. And when the last song played, when the lights dimmed and the laughter faded Boston Globe article stated, “Don never sought the limelight, but his accomplishments speak volumes.” In retirement, Don continued to share his expertise as a professor at Northeastern University, teaching alongside prominent figures, such as former Governor Mike Dukakis and former Attorney General Scott Harshbarger. His passion for education and mentorship endured, and he inspired countless students and colleagues to approach criminal justice with integrity and compassion. Don’s academic achievements were equally impressive. A lifelong learner, he earned degrees from Stonehill College, Northeastern University and Salem State College and ultimately a Doctorate in Education from the University of Massachusetts Boston. His intellectual curiosity and dedication to self-improvement were a hallmark of his character. Beyond his professional achievements, Don was deeply into the night, the memories didn’t fade. They stuck to the walls that Frankie Schifano renovated. They stayed alive in every corner of that building, in every sip of brew, in every bite of pizza, to this very day. In the years that followed, you’d think of those nights when the world felt a little less complicated – when the bar stools and booths at the Highland weren’t just seats, but little corners of comfort, like home. And even now, when you look at that menu, with its quaint prices and faded ink, you can still hear the laughter, still taste the pizza and still feel the warmth of the people who made that place more than just a restaurant. It was a sanctuary, a gathering place, a living, breathing part of Malden. And while we can never quite go back to those days, the memories live on. Kris Kristofferson’s words never rang truer: “I’d trade all my tomorrows for one single [Highland] yesterday.” And in Malden, at the Highcommitted to serving his community. He volunteered extensively at the Adventist Community Services Food Pantry in Stoneham and with “Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic” in Cambridge, demonstrating his belief in uplifting others through acts of kindness. Predeceased by his beloved wife, Maureen, and his siblings David, Roy, Barbara Levine (née Cochran) and Helen Brown (née Cochran), Don cherished his family and shared close relationships with his many nieces and nephews. He will be remembered as a man of wisdom, humility and profound impact – a quiet force for good who shaped the lives of those around him. Don Cochran’s legacy will live on in the innovations he championed, the students he mentored and the countless lives he touched. As we reflect on his extraordinary life, we are reminded of the power of quiet leadership and steadfast dedication to service. land, those yesterday’s still shine. The best is yet to come... You probably thought Dave Angelo from Public Facilities was just another pretty face, didn’t ya? Wrong! Dave’s not just holding his own – he’s gunning for the title of “Top Dog,” nipping at the heels of Mike “The Professional” Bartlett as one of Eric Rubin’s best hires (newcomer Mike Martorano is said to be an up and comer also). But for anyone who knows his past, it’s no surprise. Before his Public Facilities journey, Dave was the backbone at Stinger Cahill’s Forestdale Cemetery (frankly, truth be told, word is that he made Stinger the star that he became) years after being kingpin in the local restaurant scene, the heart and soul behind the legendary Highland Café – that family-run haven with a history as rich as Dave’s memory. Dave grew up in that iconic joint, practically raised in the MUSINGS| SEE PAGE 17

THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 Page 17 MUSINGS | FROM PAGE 16 kitchen alongside his father, John, who bought The Highland back in ’79. By 1990, Dave was the go-to guy, along with Steve Carlin, Derek Wilson, Frankie Kelly and a cast of hundreds over the years, cranking out up to 500 pizzas on a Friday night. Mornings started early with Dave scrubbing bathrooms and flipping the “open” sign by 8 for the regulars, though I can’t say I was one of them at that hour. By noon, he’d have the menu drawn up and be back in the kitchen, crafting what was easily the best pie in town. But the stories don’t end there. Dave’s memory is like a vault – he remembers everything, including where, as they say, “all the bodies are buried.” Not that we’re talking literal bodies... well, most times anyways. After I forgot to mention The Highland in my “old man’s bar” piece some time back, Dave was quick to give me a good-natured nudge. And I’m glad he did because, in his massive repository of factoids, he reminded me of a little-known tidbit: Before it was the Highland (1940s?) it had an edgier moniker – “The Bucket of Blood” – thanks to a few too many legendary characters from back in the day who gave it too much “character.” So, here’s to Dave Angelo: master pizza maker, public servant extraordinaire, guy with all the good stories (tall and otherwise) and the man with the patience of a Saint. For Dave, here are 20 questions for each time I beat him one-on-one under the lights at Devir Park back in the summer of ’73 (“Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” was the soundtrack to that summer btw). For Malden’s reading pleasure...breaking news, due to submission deadlines this article had to go to print without Dave’s answers. Fret not, they will appear at a later date. But here are a couple of answers anyway, with me taking liberties and venturing to guess he would have volunteered if time had allowed.... Amaka, Pete Trabucco, Miss Willard, Bert Cioffi, The Squire and Mr. Schlagel (insert smiley face). As Peter Falk’s iconic TV character Columbo would say, “Just one more thing, sir” – it was a very good year...this menu, such an incredible piece of local history! This slice of Malden life is not just a memento of a bygone era, but a living tribute to the patrons, the flavors and the atmosphere that made the Highland Café so iconic to so many. I hope my humble reflections – the names, the prices, the music – painted at least a muted picture of a time and place where community and good food were the heart of everything. The original joint “where everybody knows your name.” Postscript 1: To conclude... I hope you once again felt the warmth of that oven baking fresh pies, the hum of the jukebox playing those classic hits, the memory of Paul Gennetti gently asking you to drink up cuz it’s closing time, and the familiar buzz of the crowd enjoying the simple joys of a night out. And the names of the people who served, tended and poured – that’s the real heart of it. Postscript 2: In closing... The specialness is not only that I have a physical piece of that history, but also the emotional connection that brings it all to life. This menu, with its prices and drinks, is not just a relic of the past, but a doorway back to a moment in time when everything was a little simpler – and yet, still felt full of meaning. Postscript 3: In conclusion...I think it’s more than a “flashback”; it’s a reminder that those special little moments, shared with others in a place you love, are what stay with you. Whether it’s the smell of fresh bread, the laughter/buffoonery at the bar, or of toasts made, glasses raised – it all adds up to something much bigger than just an old meal. It’s about connection – both to the people who shared those moments with you and to the space where it all unfolded. Postscript 4: Last but not least... Again, I apologize for heartstrings tugged (manipulated?) – and for meandering (guilty) – but if you know of how we/I feel, then you know. Those memories are something you wouldn’t trade for anything (well, maybe a Topps ’52 Mantle). They live on, as strong and cherished as ever, every time you look at that menu, every time you see Dave or his brother Johnny (Puleo) drive by the old Highland, or just plain remember those special days. Long live the Highland Café. —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. City of Malden Community Preservation Committee Monthly Meeting Wednesday, November 20, 2024, 6:00 PM Public Hearing and Monthly Meeting Hybrid City Hall Room #105 (in-person) Live streamed via Zoom (virtual) On March 29, 2023, Governor Healey signed legislation extending certain COVID-19 relief measures including extending remote meetings for public bodies. The same provisions which permitted public bodies to meet remotely, or convene in a hybrid manner, have been extended through March 31, 2025. This extension allows public bodies to continue to meet remotely or to meet in a hybrid manner, without a quorum of the public body physically present at a meeting location. The law requires that a public body provide “adequate, alternative” access to remote meetings. Additional information/guidelines for the public can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/ service-details/updated-guidance-on-holding-meetings-pursuant-to-the-act-extendingcertain-covid-19-measures. Members of the public who wish to attend remotely can do so using the following information: https://cityofmalden.zoom.us/j/91972006455 Webinar ID: 919 7200 6455 Or join by phone from the US: +1 929 436 2866 or +1 646 518 9805 If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, please contact Maria Luise, ADA Compliance Coordinator at mluise@cityofmalden.org or 781-397-7000, Ext 2005 CPC Monthly Meeting and Public Hearing December 18, 2024 Agenda 1. Call to Order/ Roll Call 2. Public Hearing a. 0020_Pearl Street Envelope Assessment b. 0021_Oliver Street Envelope Assessment c. 0024_Forest Dale Cemetery Wall d. 0025_Forest Dale Cemetery Pond e. 0026_Saint Paul’s Church Envelope Assessment 3. Approval of Meeting Minutes from November 18, 2024 4. Other Business 5. Adjournment of CPC Monthly Meeting Share your comments on FY25 applications (https://www.cityofmalden.org/768/CPA-FundingApplications) during the Public Hearings at this November and the next December monthly meetings, or by filling out this survey: https://forms.gle/7WM8rzfMShqQAjKh7 December 06, 13, 2024

Page 18 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 BHRC | FROM PAGE 15 eleven state representative districts. The question was approved in all eleven districts with an average Yes vote of 64 percent. The ballot question specifically asked, “Shall the representative for this district be instructed to vote for legislation to create a single-payer system of universal health care that provides all Massachusetts residents with comprehensive health care coverage including the freedom to choose doctors and other health care professionals, facilities and services and eliminates the role of insurance companies in health care by creating an insurance trust fund that is publicly administered?” QUOTABLE QUOTES “As soon as we heard the news about Trump's election, it really sent huge shockwaves through immigrant communities. We heard in the days following the election just so much fear. People are afraid of what's coming. They're afraid, for some folks, that they could lose a status, that they could be at risk for being arSavvy Senior by Jim Miller What Happens to Your Debt When You Die? Dear Savvy Senior, Can my kids inherit my debt after I die? I have taken on a lot of credit card debt over the past 10 years or so, and I’m worried that my son and daughter will get stuck with it when I die. Indebted Senior Dear Indebted, In most cases when a person with debt dies, it’s their estate, not their kids, that is legally responsible. Here’s what you should know. Debt After Death When you die, your estate – which consists of the stuff you own while you’re alive (property, investments and cash) – will be responsible for paying your debts. If you don’t have enough cash to pay your debts, your kids will have to sell your assets and pay off your creditors with the proceeds. Whatever is left over is passed along to your heirs as dictated by the terms of your will, if you have one. If you don’t have a will, the intestacy laws of the state you reside in will determine how your estate will be distributed. If, however, you die broke, or there isn’t enough money left over to pay your “unsecured debts” – credit cards, medical bills, personal loans – then your estate is declared insolvent, and your creditors will have to eat the loss. “Secured debts” – loans attached to an asset such as a house or a car – are a different story. If you have a mortgage or car loan when you die, those monthly payments will need to be made by your estate or heirs, or the lender can seize the property. There are, however, a couple of exceptions that would make your kids legally responsible for your debt after you pass away. One is if your son and/or daughter is a joint holder on a credit card account that you owe on. And the other is if either one of them co-signed a loan with you. Spouses Beware If you’re married, these same debt inheritance rules apply to surviving spouses too, unless you live in a community property state, which includes Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin. In these states, any debts that one spouse acquires after the start of a marriage belongs to the other spouse too. Therefore, spouses in community property states are usually responsible for their deceased spouses’ debts. Protected Assets If you have any IRAs, 401(k)s, brokerage accounts, life insurance policies or employer-based pension plans, these are assets that creditors usually cannot get access to. That’s because these accounts typically have designated beneficiaries, and the money goes directly to those people without passing through the estate. Settling the Estate You should also make your kids aware that if you die with debt, and you have no assets, settling your estate will be fairly simple. Your executor will need to send out letters to your creditors explaining the situation, including a copy of your death certificate, and that will probably take care of it. But your kids may still have to deal with aggressive debt collectors who try to guilt them into paying. If you have some assets, but not enough to pay all your debts, your state’s probate court has a distinct list of what bills get priority. The details vary by state, but generally estate administrating fees, funeral expenses, taxes and last illness medical bills get paid first, followed by secured debts and lastly, credit card debts. Need Legal Help? If you or your kids have questions or need legal assistance, contact a consumer law attorney or probate attorney. If you can’t afford a lawyer, go to LawHelp.org to search for free legal help in your area. 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. rested, potentially detained, potentially deported and could be facing family separation. --- Elizabeth Sweet, executive director of the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA), in an interview with the State House News Service. "Massachusetts residents have been kept in the dark about the conditions within emergency housing shelters for migrants. The shocking stories coming to light underscore just one reason why the Healey-Driscoll Administration needs to put an end to its open door policy welcoming migrants.” ---Mass GOP Chair Amy Carnevale on reports that Jon Fetherston, the former Director of a Massachusetts migrant shelter, has come forward as a whistleblower, exposing deeply disturbing and inhumane incidents within the state’s emergency shelter system. “The survey’s findings highlight just how prevalent speeding is, especially among drivers who take other risks behind the wheel. Enforcement, community outreach and education continue to be absolutely critical to curbing a wide range of risky driving behaviors and ultimately lowering the number of traffic crash fatalities in the U.S.” ---Mark Schieldrop, spokesperson for AAA, on its study that a higher proportion of American drivers admit to speeding, driving distracted and engaging in other risky behaviors than those who steadfastly follow the rules of the road. “The latest revenue numbers offer clear evidence that the ultra-wealthy are remaining in Massachusetts and paying more in state taxes. Because the ultra-rich are finally paying closer to their fair share of state taxes, Massachusetts can afford to invest in the well-educated workforce and reliable transportation system our economy depends on. Thanks to the voters who amended our Constitution to establish a fairer tax system, we can make Massachusetts more affordable for working families and start building an economy that works for everyone." --- Andrew Farnitano, spokesperson for the Raise Up Massachusetts coalition, which led the campaign to pass the 2022 ballot question which imposed an additional 4 percent income tax, in addition to the flat 5 percent one, on taxpayers’ earnings of more than $1 million annually. HOW LONG WAS LAST WEEK’S SESSION? Beacon Hill Roll Call tracks the length of time that the House and Senate were in session each week. Many legislators say that legislative sessions are only one aspect of the Legislature’s job and that a lot of important work is done outside of the House and Senate chambers. They note that their jobs also involve committee work, research, constituent work and other matters that are important to their districts. Critics say that the Legislature does not meet regularly or long enough to debate and vote in public view on the thousands of pieces of legislation that have been filed. They note that the infrequency and brief length of sessions are misguided and lead to irresponsible latenight sessions and a mad rush to act on dozens of bills in the days immediately preceding the end of an annual session. During the week of December 2-6, the House met for a total of two hours and 53 minutes 37 minutes and the Senate met for a total of two hours and 50 minutes. MonDec. 2 House11:02 a.m. to1:01p.m. Senate 11:01 a.m. to1:09p.m. Tues.Dec. 3 No House session No Senate session Wed. Dec. 4 No House session No Senate session Thurs. Dec. 5 House11:02 a.m. to 11:56a.m. Senate 11:13 a.m. to 11:55a.m. Fri.Dec.6 No House session No Senate session Bob Katzen welcomes feedback at bob@beaconhillrollcall.com Bob founded Beacon Hill Roll Call in 1975 and was inducted into the New England Newspaper and Press Association (NENPA) Hall of Fame in 2019.

THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 Page 19 OBITUARIES Bruce C. Jones Of Malden. Passed away December 3rd 2024. The son of Warren and Joan (Campbell) Jones Bruce was born and raised in Malden. He is the loving husband of Susan Jones and an excellent step father to Jennifer, Elizabeth, Katelyn and Mary. During his free time, he loved spending time with family, Bruce also enjoyed classic cars and classic rock, he even played saxophone in a band when he was in school. Bruce is survived by his wife of 20 years Susan Jones of Malden, his step daughters Jennifer Pak of East Bridgewater, Elizabeth Moniz of Westport, Katelyn Watson of Malden and Mary Rice of Washington, his sister Ruth Gillis of Tewksbury and his grandchildren Brodie Pak, Bradley Pak and Julian Moniz. Funeral services will be held at the Weir-MacCuish Golden Rule Funeral Home, 144 Salem St, Malden on Saturday, Dec 14th, at 6 pm, with Visitation held from 2-6pm. Choi Li A long-time resident of Malden. Passed away on December 4, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born and raised in Hong Kong, Choi immigrated to the United States with her children in 1977 and settled in Boston. In 1982, she and her family moved to Malden. Choi was a devoted mother & grandmother who cared for her children with love and dedication. She also enjoyed gardening, playing mahjong, and spending time with family and friends. Choi is survived by her children: Chi Kuen Lam of Winchester, Ching Yee Lee of Westwood, Chi Fun Lam of Westwood, and Sam Lee of Billerica; her grandchildren: Ethan, Emily, Hillary, Justin, Jared, and Megan; and her great-grandchild, August. Visitation will be held at the Weir-MacCuish Golden Rule Funeral Home, 144 Salem St, Malden, on Saturday, December 14, from 9:30 AM to 10:45 AM, followed by a Christian service from 10:45 AM to 11:30 AM. Interment will take place afterward at Forest Hills Cemetery in Boston. Leo A. Hamel Passed away on December 8, 2024. He was 66 years old. Leo grew up in Malden Massachusetts. He loved playing hockey in the rink and on the pond as a youth. He graduated from Malden High School, where he enjoyed many fun times with friends and classmates. After graduation, Leo Served in the Army National Guard Corps of Engineers. He started his career in painting and construction, working for himself and eventually founding the LAH Realty Trust, which he ran for 24 years, building many homes in the Wilmington area. He also worked for several construction companies, most recently as a superintendent for ZVI Construction. Additionally, Leo was a mortOBITS | SEE PAGE 21 Lawn and Yard Care SNOW PLOWING *REASONABLE RATES * PROMPT SERVICE * PARKING LOTS USA 781-521-9927 SPADAFORA AUTO PARTS JUNK CARS WANTED SAME DAY PICK UP 781-324-1929 Quality Used Tires Mounted & Installed Used Auto Parts & Batteries Family owned & operated since 1946 LINDERME AND GWYNN ESTATES: IMPLIED LIFE ESTATES T he tax court case in Linderme v. Commissioner, 52 T.C. 305 (1969) clearly states that the value of real estate can still be includable in the decedent’s taxable estate even if there was no actual reserved life estate on the deed itself. For example, if a 90 year old man deeded his home to his 3 children and reserved a life estate on the deed itself, the fair market value of the real estate would become the new cost basis going forward in the names of the three children. The reserved life estate on the deed itself leaves no question as to whether or not the home is to be included in the gross estate for estate tax purposes. Once included in the gross taxable estate, the step-up in cost basis is achieved thereby providing for the new cost basis to be equal to the fair market value of the home at the time of death. When there is no life estate language on the deed itself, you have to look at the facts and circumstances along with the Linderme case and the Gwynn case (437 F.2nd 1148 (4th Circuit, 1971) in order to determine if the home would still be includable in the gross taxable estate. So long as the fair market value of the home is not greater than $2million, and assuming there are no other assets owned at the time of death, there would be no Massachusetts estate tax to be paid. Certainly no federal estate tax with the new $13.99million exemption amount as of 1-1-25. If the children sell for $2million, they would pay no capital gains tax as well. Therefore, as part of an estate plan/tax plan, we want the value of the home to be includable in the taxable estate of the decedent. The reason is that once the property is included in the taxable estate, under Internal Revenue Code Section 1014(a), we can achieve a stepup in cost basis equal to the fair market value at the time of death. It’s as if the children paid $2million for the property thereby resulting in no capital gain upon a subsequent sale. In the Linderme and Gwynn cases, there was no reserved life estate on the deed itself. The court found that there was an understanding on the part of all parties that the parent was to live in the home until death. The parent lived in the house rent free until the date of death. None of the children resided in the house with the parent. In the Linderme case, the father paid all of the monthly operating costs such as real estate taxes, water and sewer, homeowner’s insurance, repairs, etc., until the day he moved to a nursing home. At that point in time, the home remained vacant. While in the nursing home, the son continued to pay the monthly expenses with the father’s own money. Upon the death of the father, the house was sold, estate bills were paid and the net proceeds were split among the three children. The Judge ruled that the decedent retained the possession and enjoyment of the home until the day he died. The Judge found that there was indeed an understanding of all parties that this was the case. He found that the value of the home should be includible in his taxable estate under Internal Revenue Code Section 2036(1)(a). The decedent had exclusive possession of the home. There are times when you really want the real estate to be includible in the taxable estate so that a very large future capital gains tax can be avoided. These are two court cases to keep in mind in order to avoid, or greatly minimize, any future capital gains tax. 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. Call $ $ $ $ Driveways from $35

Page 20 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 KNIVES & SCISSORS SHARPENED Sharp Services Inc. 222 Centre St., Saugus (617) 590-3500 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: $175 per paper in-town per year or $225 per paper out-of-town per year. For Advertising with Results, call The Advocate Newspapers at 617-387-2200 or Info@ advocatenews.net BUYER1 LAWS, CHRISTINE M PIAGI, PAOLO TOSO, SAMUEL BUYER2 CHAN, WING Y WOODS-TOSO, JENNA SELLER1 TOTO, BRIAN J 73 WYETH ST LLC 218 TREMONT ST CBC LLC 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 SELLER2 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 479-481 LYNN ST 73 WYETH ST 218 TREMONT ST CITY MALDEN MALDEN MALDEN DATE 11.08.24 11.08.24 11.06.24 PRICE 350000 1400000 950000 Classifieds

THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 Page 21 OBITS | FROM PAGE 19 gage loan officer at First Call Mortgage, among other agencies. Leo got married in 1989 and settled in Wilmington, where he raised his three children. He loved spending time with family and friends, traveling, CrossFit, dining out, and the outdoors, particularly the White Mountains, and Salisbury and Nahant Beaches. A talented craftsman, Leo loved home improvement projects and always had the right tool for the job. He could most often be found working in the yard or in the home. He was happiest fixing and building things. A beloved father, Leo will always live on in the hearts of his children. Leo was the beloved father of Alivia Hamel and her partner Brendan Coleman of Stratham, NH, Cameron Hamel of Tewksbury and Jordan Hamel and his partner Madison Gauldin of Tewksbury. He was the brother of Susan Hamel-Bottari and her husband Derek and Andy Hamel and his wife Maryellen. Leo was the uncle of Andrew Hamel and the late Jack Hamel. He is also survived by aunts, uncles and cousins. The funeral will be held from the A. J. Spadafora Funeral Home, 865 Main Street, Malden on Saturday December 14th at 9:00am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Leo’s life in the Immaculate Conception Church, 600 Pleasant Street, Malden at 10:00am. Relatives and friends are respectClean-Outs! We take and dispose from cellars, attics, garages, yards, etc. Call Robert at: 781-844-0472 fully invited to attend. Visiting hours will be held at the Funeral Home on Friday December 13th from 4:00pm-8:00pm. Interment will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, Malden. 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 Dec. 13, 11967, what actor in “In Living Color,” who later had his own show and starred in “Ray,” was born? 2. The Yeti (abominable snowman) has mostly been reported to exist in what mountains? 3. What U.S. First Lady who had worked as a journalist established the White House tradition of themed Christmas decorations? 4. Traditionally, what is a sugarplum? 5. On Dec. 14, 1994, construction began on the Three Gorges Dam on what river? 6. Is a snowstorm the same as a blizzard? 7. On Dec. 15, 2011, what war ended? 8. What is sometimes known as five-alarm? 9. In which year did a human first go to space: 1961, 1965 or 1970? 10. How are Huron, Mohawk and Oneida similar? 11. On Dec. 16, 1903, NYC immigrant Italo Marchioni received a patent for what food container that is edible? 12. What is “Mounties” a nickname for? 13. On Dec. 17, 1979, what U.S. president was the first to recognize Hanukkah by lighting a menorah? 14. How are pinkie, ring and index similar? 15. What Shakespeare play title includes a name of an animal? 16. What country has “snow monkeys” (macaques) 17. On Dec. 18, 1892, what Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky ballet debuted in St. Petersburg? 18. What sci-fi character did James Earl Jones play the voice of? 19. In 2013, Guinness World Records awarded Brooklyn resident Scott Wiener for having the most kinds of what food container? 20. On Dec. 19, 1915, what French singer and actress known for “La Vie en Rose (Life in Pink) was born? ANSWERS 1. Eric Marlon Bishop (known professionally as Jamie Foxx) 2. High Himalayas 3. “Jackie” Kennedy 4. A candy of hardened sugar layers around nuts, seeds or spices in a plum shape 5. Yangtze 6. Meteorologists have strict stipulations for a blizzard, such as visibility and wind speed. 7. Iraq 8. A fire or hot chili 9. 1961 (cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin) 10. They are Iroquois Indian tribes. 11. Ice cream cone 12. The Royal Mounted Police of Canada 13. Jimmy Carter 14. They are types of fingers. 15. “The Taming of the Shrew” 16. Japan 17. “The Nutcracker” 18. Darth Vader 19. Pizza boxes (595) 20. Édith Piaf

Page 22 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 13, 2024 Licensed & Insured Free Estimates Carpentry * Kitchen & Bath * Roofs * Painting Decks * Siding * Carrijohomeimprovement.com Call 781-710-8918 * Saugus, MA General Contractor * Interior & Exterior 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. AAA Service • Lockouts Trespass Towing • Roadside Service Junk Car Removal 617-387-6877 26 Garvey St., Everett MDPU 28003 ICCMC 251976 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 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, December 13, 2024 Page 23 MANGO REALTY INC 781-558-1091 / infowithmango@gmail.com / www.mangorealtyteam.com TURN-KEY HOME in WEST PEABODY - $839,000 Looking to buy or sell your property? Call us at 781-558-1091 or email infowithmango@gmail.com. Visit our website at mangorealtyteam.com for exclusive listings, market reports, and a free home valuation tool. Let us help with all you real estate needs! SPACIOUS ROCKPORT TOWNHOME - $699,000 Looking to buy or sell your property? Call us at 781-558-1091 or email infowithmango@gmail.com. Visit our website at mangorealtyteam.com for exclusive listings, market reports, and a free home valuation tool. Let us help with all you real estate needs! 3-FAMILY HOME in LYNN, MA - $899,000 For Sale: Welcome to this fully renovated "turn-key" brick front split in desirable West Peabody, just moments from major highways and shopping. Your budget will enjoy the low residential tax-rate and the attractive municipal electric rates. Owners went above and beyond renovating this well situated spacious 5-bedroom/2 full bath home featuring all new: roof, full bathrooms, appliances, 200-amp service, hi efficiency heat, central A/C, deck rails, exterior paint, composite fencing, many windows, flooring. Open House this Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. Contact: Peter at 781-820-5690. For Sale: Experience the charm of Rockport with this stunning 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom townhome offering 2,656 sq. ft. of spacious living. Priced at $699,000, this home features a thoughtful layout perfect for comfortable living and entertaining, with a low monthly HOA of $135 and a competitive $263 per square foot. Located close to Rockport’s scenic attractions, this property combines comfort with coastal elegance. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this coastal gem your own! For more details, contact Rosa at 781-820-0096 and Jeanine at 617-312-2491. Take a Virtual Tour! Discover the beauty of this stunning Rockport townhome from the comfort of your home. Watch the video tour and see everything this property has to offer! For Sale: 3-family property on a dead-end street features spacious 6-room, 3-bedroom units with stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors, separate utilities, and inunit coin-op washers and dryers. Includes 2-car parking, a 2-year-old gas heating system on the first floor, oil heating on the second and third, and full deleading compliance for all units. Conveniently close to Market Basket and local amenities! Open House this Sunday, December 15, 2024, from 12:00-2:00 PM. Contact: Sue at 617-877-4553 for more details! TRINITY REAL ESTATE Providing Real Estate Services for 17 Years Servicing Saugus, Melrose, Wakefield, Malden, all North Shore communities, Boston and beyond. The Trinity Real Estate Team Sii S Ml Agent Spotlight Lucia Ponte, REALTOR ® Lucia Ponte is a dedicated real estate agent with 20+ years in the service industry, specializing in representing buyers and sellers. Her focus is on client satisfaction, educating consumers, and making transactions seamless and stress-free. Awarded for productivity, Lucia prioritizes relationship building as a local resident and mother. Her goal is to ensure a successful experience for all clients as their REALTOR®. 781.883.8130 ti Bt d bd Th Tiit Rl Ett T LuciaPonte2014@yahoo.com Diane Horrigan is a committed REALTOR ® with over 25 years of experience in Saugus. Her appraisal background enhances her market insight, allowing her to provide personalized service to clients ranging from first-time homebuyers to seasoned investors. She utilizes her local knowledge and network for a seamless real estate experience. Outside of work, Diane is active in her community and enjoys golfing. Clients appreciate her Diane Horrigan, REALTOR ® service and often return for future needs. 781.526.6357 DianeHorrigan.com 321 MAIN STREET | SAUGUS, MA | VILLAGE PARK TrinityHomesRE.com 781.231.9800

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