׉?4ׁB!בCטUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://Dii12A-m5YbJXfzqNNLmFpIPdE6-4Y6onh0JXvYhpx0`'p׉ 7cassandra://4nlHzYDhWmq2khkpTfJuFRRlQ1ePMc62bVtja7eOVfgͳ`׉ 7cassandra://2UcpxjPsE-T7PyRbUEwNYu0iSoG35m5IuaoB9TfzPxY8`irN{$"נirN{$"k9ׁHhttp://McDonald.Seׁ ׁ ЈנirN{$" 9ׁHhttp://www.advocatenews.netׁ ׁ Ј׈EirN{$"׉EYour Local News, Sports and Information Online. Scan & Subscribe! Vol. 35, No. 3 -FREEwww.advocatenews.net Published Every Friday Malden keeps Rev. Dr. King’s dream alive on his birthday L 617-387-2200 Friday, January 21, 2026 Malden City Council votes down bid for $36 million debt exclusion ballot question Majority of Councillors say planned Proposition 2 1/2 override ballot question should stand alone By Steve Freker The 97th birthday of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and the 40th annual observance of MLK, Jr. Day was celebrated with “The Urgency of Now: Keeping the Dream Alive” at Emmanuel Baptist Church on Sunday. Pictured front row, from left to right, are: Eric Henry, former city councillor Neal Anderson, DEI Director Kashawna Harling, Councillor-At-Large Karen Colón-Hayes, Kristy Magras, Ward 3 Councillor Amanda Linehan, Councillor-At-Large Michelle Bucci Luong, and Ralph Long. Back row, shown from left to right, are: Jillian Harvey, Mayor Gary Christenson, Rev. Wayne Gadie, Council President/Ward 6 City Councillor Stephen Winslow, and Councillor-At-Large Carey McDonald.See page 9 for photo highlights.(Advocate photo by Tara Vocino) eave it to Ward 7 Councillor Chris Simonelli to show out a hidden talent during a Malden City Council meeting: “Art critic.” During a discussion of a proposed addition of a third ballot question to a planned Proposition 2 1/2 special election on Tuesday, March 31, Simonelli said it might be too much to ask of the voters, who were already looking at two. On March 31, Malden voters will be deciding on either a $5.4 million override DEBT | SEE PAGE 6 Chris Simonelli Ward 7 Councillor As He Retires, Malden VSO Kevin Jarvis Leaves a Lasting Legacy of Honor and Service By Tara Vocino A fter 15 years of dedicated service, Malden VeterU.S. Marine Corps General Joseph Dunford, Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps from Mass., and Malden VSO Kevin Jarvis on the island of Guam in February 2015. Dunford and Jarvis are linked through their involvement with the Iwo Jima Association of America and events commemorating the Battle of Iwo Jima, some of which involved travel to Guam. (Courtesy photo, Kevin Jarvis) ans’ Services Officer Kevin Jarvis is retiring, leaving behind a legacy defined by advocacy, remembrance and deep respect for those who served. Jarvis’ final day with the City of Malden is Jan. 29. While he said he will miss helping veterans most, he expressed confidence that the Executive Office of Veterans Services in Boston will ensure a smooth transition by training and certifying Malden’s next Veterans’ Services Officer. As Malden’s Director of Veterans’ Services, Jarvis has worked closely with the Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans Services and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, serving as a tireless advocate for veterans and their families. His office has guided clients through state and federal benefits, provided financial assistance to veterans and surviving spouses in need and helped secure disability compensation, pensions, medical care, education benefits, home loans and burial assistance. Jarvis also played a central role in coordinating the city’s Veterans Day, Memorial Day and Flag Day observances. Each Memorial Day, his office — joined by volunteers and students — placed more than 10,000 flags on veterans’ graves throughout Malden cemeteries. He additionally oversaw the dedication of streets, squares and parks named in honor of Malden veterans, many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice. Among his proudest accomplishments, Jarvis said, is Malden’s collective commitment to honoring veterans. “I know of no other city or town in Massachusetts that has done more to honor and remember its veterans than the city of Malden,” Jarvis said, quoting remarks made by Brig. Gen. Leonid Kondratiuk LEGACY | SEE PAGE 5 ׉ 7cassandra://2UcpxjPsE-T7PyRbUEwNYu0iSoG35m5IuaoB9TfzPxY8`irN{$"irN{$" rבCטUru׉׉ 7cassandra://nsI55y9qatfrhBKzccNqh7q49PUpMYmgkqdSP2_e1mc`'p׉ 7cassandra://2LPhD7IdVjlhaQssl_w-RGOpC2-LPJoHYNrg4K9H0l0ʹ`׉ 7cassandra://6EqT_tYBa9Ky7iCqRw0LoBSavZ4M-fYo1qpuRRwIoFk6`irN{$"טUUru׉׉ 7cassandra://CZUxRtbadWdMVTgF-JT-kfYi2pz3AjfW-xJrZg76dHA`'p׉ 7cassandra://I7gacr1Do4y-uAS10oLWMZkE3MNV8v2aidmXkJCHCuEͮt`׉ 7cassandra://GKb637tjOdK2nw4sK9gk_F20lMXP4dkbrZ3ryGXMch01`irN{$"נirN{$"["9ׁHhttp://TONYSAUTOBODYLLC.COMׁ ׁ Ј׉E Page 2 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, January 21, 2026 Kilbride Memorial Bench Unveiling R Valentine's Special SAVE OVER $100!!! Buy three colors or highlights and get the 4th FREE! Includes cut and blow dry Located inside of Clickers Hair Salon 960 Broadway, Revere ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! CALL 857-310-7872 Payments accepted: card, cash, venmo Offer expires to Jan. 14, 2026 Over 30 years experience 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 Real estate developer Cummings invites staff to guide its holiday giving Special to The Advocate L ocal nonprofits are celebrating the season with a combined $520,000 in funding through Cummings Community Giving. This annual program allows employees of Woburn-based real estate developer Cummings Properties to each direct up to $2,000 from the company to a nonprofit of their choice, with Malden organizations receiving a combined $11,000. Now in its 14th year, the initiative is designed to support the communities where Cummings team members live and work. More than 240 organizations across approximately 80 local cities and towns will benefit from this cycle of Cummings Community Giving. “This program is meaningful for so many of our team members,” said President Eric Anderson. “It puts philanthropy directly in their hands, allowing them to further support the causes that matter most to them.” Anderson noted that 100 percent of all rental profits at Cummings go to nonprofits. “The work our staff does every day to ecently, the family of Kevin Kilbride gathered at Trafton Park in Malden’s Maplewood area to mark the one year anniversary of his untimely passing with the unveiling of a memorial bench in his honor. Kevin, a beloved educator, retired at the end of the school year in 2024 after working in the Malden School system for over 30 years as an educator and later as an administrator. The family chose Trafton Park because of the many years Kevin spent at his neighborhood park. Kevin would say he could hear his mother calling him home from the back porch on Webber Street. Pictured behind the bench are Kevin’s son Eamon, wife Maura, daughter Maeve and son Conor. keep our buildings full helps to support hundreds of local nonprofits,” said Anderson. “They all have a role in our organization’s success, and we want them to have a role in its giving as well.” Each eligible nonprofit may receive up to $6,000 per cycle. Through this year’s cycle, five Malden organizations received donations: Bread of Life: 1,000. Immaculate Conception Parish: 2,000. MLF Forever19, Inc: 2,000. Mystic Valley Elder Services Inc.: 4,000. New Funsoccer Inc.: 2,000. More information about Cummings Community Giving is available at www.cummings. com/ccg. Beacon Hill Roll Call By Bob Katzen THE HOUSE AND SENATE: Beacon Hill Roll Call records local senators' votes on roll calls from the week of January 1216. There were no roll calls in the House last week. OFFER TAX CREDIT TO COVER LARGE PROPERTY TAX INCREASES (S 2899) Senate 37-1, approved and sent to the House a bill that supporters said would give cities and towns the ability to shield their most vulnerable taxpayBHRC | SEE PAGE 8 ׉ 7cassandra://6EqT_tYBa9Ky7iCqRw0LoBSavZ4M-fYo1qpuRRwIoFk6`irN{$"׉ETHE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, January 21, 2026 Page 3 CITY COUNCIL: Councillors approve $1.5 million HUD loan application to help fund new Boathouse on Malden River Unanimous vote okays application for 15-year federal loan to pay for $4.1 million to build boathouse, salt shed in Phase Two of Malden River Works project By Steve Freker T he Malden River Works Project has been underway for the past five years, and the project will potentially receive another financial boost, following a vote of the Malden City Council. At its last meeting, Councillors voted unanimously to authorize the City of Malden to apply for a federal Section 108 loan in the amount of $1.5 milIf the loan request to the federal Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is ultimately approved, then it would be applied to Phase Two of the Malden River Works Project. In Phase Two, at a total cost of $4.1 million, included would be the construction of a new boathouse on the Malden River as well as a new salt shed for use by the Malden Department of Public Works (DPW), which is situated on the main was $12.38 million, though that number has risen since the project’s inception in the fall of 2019. Since the very first public meeting, in October 2019, the project has received over $12 million in nine grants, awards and prizes, along with designated city and state funding from various sources. As of September 2025, approximately $3 million has been spent on the project. Funding for Phase Two of the project — which includes the new boathouse and salt shed — is not yet in place, the City Council was informed by the Mayor’s letter. In addition to the requested $1.5 million HUD loan, the city is “pursuing other funding sources,” the Mayor stated. “The construction [of the boathouse and salt shed] will cost an estimated $4.1M. We are planning for an estimated $1.1M of the existing grant funding to go towards this phase,” Mayor Christenson stated in his letter to RIVER | SEE PAGE 6 If We Happen To Meet By Accident ... You’ll Be Glad You Found Us! There is a difference between the rest and the BEST! The $12.7 million-plus Malden River Works project got a potential boost when the Malden City Council approved an application for a new $1.5 million Section 108 HUD Loan. (Courtesy/City of Malden) lion. Voting in favor of authorizing the city to apply for the loan were Councillors Peg Crowe (Ward 1), Paul Condon (Ward 2), Ryan O’Malley (Ward 4), Ari Taylor (Ward 5), Stephen Winslow (Ward 6), Chris Simonelli (Ward 7), Jadeane Sica (Ward 8), Karen Colón Hayes (at Large), Michelle Luong (at Large), Carey McDonald (at Large) and Council President Amanda Linehan (Ward 4). None were opposed. site. The boathouse would be used to provide Malden River access to the Malden High School Crew Team, among others. The salt shed would replace what is now just an open sand/salt pile in the back of the DPW yard. According to a letter delivered to the City Council from Mayor Gary Christenson, the $1.5 million HUD loan amount would be vital to the completion of the overall project, whose initial cost PLEASANT ST. TAX 175 Pleasant Street, Malden Specializing in Personal Income Tax Preparation Starting at $90. Call: (781) 324-6195 Celebrating 46 Years In Business! 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This year’s book selection, “Our Missing Hearts,” by bestselling author Celeste Ng, explores themes of love, resistance and belonging. The kickoff event will bring together literature, history, art and conversation through interactive activities and experiences for all ages. No need to read the book in advance—everyone is welcome. Following are highlights of the event: ● Musical Performance: The band Tale Spin, fronted by chef and musician David Stein and his wife Sue, will perform acoustic protest music of the last century, including a community singalong. David and Sue have deep connections to Malden as former residents, and David is a former Malden Reads committee member who created memorable programs, including a pop-up restaurant and music club event featuring his band Soulshine. ● Yarn as Protest Art: Exploration of how fiber arts can be used as tools for peaceful protest and self-expression. ● Art Exhibition: View prints by Corita Kent (also known as Sister Mary Corita), the artist best known for her art on the Boston Gas tanks along Route 93 southbound in the 1970s as well as the Love stamp in the 1980s. Corita’s work and her messages of peace and social justice reflect her understanding of the power of language, just like in “Our Missing Hearts,” and continue to resonate today. ● Revolutionary Photo Stations: Step back in time with colonial costume photo opportunities and a model of a Boston Tea Party ship where participants can toss tea bales overboard, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and Malden’s role as the first town to declare independence. ● Video Screenings: Short videos by Malden Revolution’s Mark Linehan showcasing Malden’s revolutionary history and drawing connections between past and present acts of civic engagement. ● Arts & Crafts for All Ages: Led Established 1978 Mid-grade Regular 2.64 3.24 3.35 $3.37 Full Service ULS $3.259 Order online at angelosoil.com Kerosene Now Available! by Malden High’s Love 4 Kids club, offering creative projects that encourage connection and creativity. ● Heart-Shaped Cookie Decorating: A fun and delicious handson activity for participants of all ages. ● Refreshments: Food and drink will be available throughout the evening. ● Books Available: Attendees can borrow “Our Missing Hearts” Participants at a prior Malden Reads event from the library circulation desk with their Malden Public Library card. Volunteer support for the evening will be provided by the Malden High YMCA Leaders. About the 2026 Malden Reads program: Now in its 16th year, Malden Reads will explore themes from “Our Missing Hearts” related to civic ideals, revolution (including one’s own personal revolution), resistance and courage. The program purposefully coincides with the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and will highlight Malden’s unique role as the first town to declare independence from Britain in 1775. Age-appropriate companion books for younger readers and English learners will be announced soon and will be available to borrow from the Malden Public Library and donated to the Malden Public Schools and community organizations. The Malden Reads event season is planned to run into spring to provide opportunities for conversation and connection during the cold months and will include book discussions, film screenings and other special programs. The event schedule will be added as details become available. This program is funded in part by a grant from the Malden Cultural Council, a local agency that is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.Volunteers are always welcome. For more information or to get involved, email maldenreads@gmail.com, visit www.maldenreads.org and follow along on social media. EVERETT ALUMINUM SUPPLIES 67 Years! — Vinyl Siding — Carpentry Work — Decks — Roofing — Free Estimates — Replacement Windows — Fully Licensed — Fully Insured FLEET CARD Check Out Our LOW PRICES! ׉ 7cassandra://CPR5MWPqyQYQuzSK9BBFhdTckB4_ZRvYndgiA8ZiEfM8`irN{$"׉ETHE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, January 21, 2026 Page 5 LEGACY | FROM PAGE 1 (Ret.) at a past ceremony. He also praised the volunteers who return year after year to help place flags on veterans’ graves. During his tenure, the city dedicated six life-size bronze statues honoring combat veterans from the Civil War through the post-9/11 wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Jarvis will remain involved in one final project: assisting with the design and dedication of a Revolutionary War soldier statue, planned for July 4, 2026, in recognition of the nation’s 250th anniversary. Mayor Gary Christenson thanked Jarvis for creating a legacy that will endure. “Through the installation of veteran statues, the dedication of memorial squares, and his unwavering support for those who have served, Kevin Jarvis ensured that Malden remains committed to remembering our nation’s heroes,” Christenson said. Veterans’ Services Clerk Martha Ferratusco echoed those sentiments, noting that Jarvis brought extraordinary historical knowledge and dedication to his role. She highlighted major projects, such as bringing the Vietnam Veterans Moving Wall to Malden in 2013 and overseeing the placement of six combat veteran statues throughout the city, including one honoring a female service He enlisted in the Marine Corps that same year and later received a certificate of commendation for saving a doctor’s life in Africa in 1997. In retirement, Jarvis plans to spend time gardening, working in his yard and possibly traveling. One trip on his wish list is a Viking River cruise in Europe — though he joked he has had enough time at sea after weeks aboard Navy ships in the Pacific. Though he is stepping away from his official role, Jarvis’ influence will remain visible throughout Malden — in its monuments, memorials and, most importantly, in the lives of the veterans he served. 8 Norwood St. Everett (617) 387-9810 Retiring Veterans’ Services Officer Kevin Jarvis — shown with Mayor Gary Christenson — dedicated Malden’s Operation Iraqi Freedom statue. (Courtesy photos, Jose Fuentes) member from the Persian Gulf War — among the first of its kind in the region. “Kevin’s impact goes far beyond monuments,” Ferratusco said, recalling how Jarvis personally ensured that an ill veteran received proper nursing care and that his affairs were responsibly managed. “His dedication to veterans is both professional and deeply personal.” That personal connection is rooted in Jarvis’ own service and family history. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Jarvis served five years in the Marines and later spent 30 years in federal law enforcement. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Florida AtlanALL DEPOSITS ARE INSURED IN FULL. Celebrate 135 years of strength & commitment to our community with a special 135-day CD offer. LIMITED-TIME OFFER: 4.00% APY* 135-Day CD *New money only. $250,000 maximum deposit. Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate of the date posted and is subject to change without notice. APY assumes the interest remains on deposit until maturity. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. A minimum of $500 is required to open a Certificate of Deposit and earn the advertised APY. 419 BROADWAY EVERETT, MA 02149 771 SALEM ST. LYNNFIELD, MA 01940 331 MONTVALE AVE. WOBURN, MA 01801 EVERETTBANK.COM 617-387-1110 781-776-4444 781-281-9092 MEMBER FDIC | MEMBER DIF tic University and an associate degree from Bunker Hill Community College. Since becoming Malden’s VSO in 2010, one of the veterans who most influenced him was World War II veteran William Dempsey. “It was such an honor to share his stories and help preserve his legacy,” Jarvis said. He also reflected on his own family members who served in World War II, including his father, uncle and two uncles who fought in Europe and the Pacific. Born and raised in Malden, Jarvis graduated from Malden High School in 1974 and began working for the city as a student employee while still in school. Open Tues. - Sat. at 4:00 PM Closed Sun. & Mon. 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It not only creates access to one of Malden’s greatest natural resources, but it also addresses critical flooding issues and needed improvements to the DPW yard,” Mayor Christenson stated. He added, “Boathouse construction is particularly necessary to support Malden High School’s popular rowing team, and salt shed construction is necessary to prevent winter rock salt runoff into the Malden River. The entire project has broad community support, thanks to its active and motivated steering committee.” With regard to the Malden THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, January 21, 2026 Last year, participation on High rowing team — referred to as the Crew Team officially — there were three emails read by City Clerk Carol Ann Desiderio during the City Council’s public comment period, all supporting the new boathouse. Two of them were from former team members, including Malden High 2025 graduate Mack Keating, and another from a parent of a Crew Team member. Keating described the last two seasons for Malden High Crew as difficult, since there was no boathouse or direct access to the Malden River for the team, which previously had temporary enclosures for their rowing boats and other equipment. Public comment supporters of the new boathouse said that Malden had to be based out of the neighboring community of Medford, but “still managed to finish eighth in the state” in a competition. the Malden High School Crew Team had fallen to just eight team members. In the previous Crew rowing season, 2024, there were 14 team members. In past years, with consistent access to the river, the numbers were much higher, with up to 24 and 30 team members, from 20212023. With the construction of a new boathouse, it is expected that the participation numbers of the Malden High team would increase again. Malden Councillor-at-Large Carey McDonald, the chairperson of the Council’s Finance Committee, reported the committee had unanimously supported the resolution request for the loan application. “This is a key funding piece for this project. We really want to see this project move forward,” Councillor McDonald said. “The steering committee work on this project has been consistent and productive.” Councillor McDonald stressed, “None of the money [to pay Malden River Works project description T his project aims to create better climate change preparedness and a vibrant, public riverfront park that boosts social resilience in Malden, Massachusetts. The overall design of the project addresses climate mitigation and adaptation while also producing the co-benefits of boosting social resiliency. The park design seeks to actively invite visitors of all backgrounds, ages, languages and socioeconomic statuses. The diverse cultures of Malden will be represented on the site through art on the DPW walls and signage, cultural events, and outdoor classes. Bioretention and riparian areas will be complemented by signage in various languages to allow visitors to learn about the natural environment or history of Malden. Additionally, the flexibility of spaces and the ADA-compliant design will welcome people of all age groups and abilities. Law Offices of JOSEPH D. CATALDO, P.C. “ATTORNEYS AND COUNSELORS AT LAW” • ESTATE/MEDICAID PLANNING • WILLS/TRUSTS/ESTATES • INCOME TAX PREPARATION • WEALTH MANAGEMENT • RETIREMENT PLANNING • ELDER LAW 369 Broadway Everett, MA 02149 (617)381-9600 JOSEPH D. CATALDO, CPA, CFP, MST, ESQUIRE. AICPA Personal Financial Specialist Designee back] this loan would come out of the General Fund.” The Finance Committee chairperson explained that the payments for the loan would be incorporated in the city’s annual Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) allotment. Simply, Councillor McDonald asserted, “This is not new spending by our city government.” Ward 7 Councillor Chris Simonelli asked specific questions regarding the Section 108 loan process, the payment of the loan and what outstanding loans were “on the books.” Malden Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development (OSPCD) Director Alex Pratt went to the speaker’s podium and addressed Councillor Simonelli’s queries in detail, confirming Councillor McDonald’s earlier explanation on some points. One reference to an outstanding Section 108 loan was an existing $1.3 million HUD allotment that was originally for improvements to Roosevelt Park, but when that project was abandoned due to delays and cost increases, those funds became designated solely for the removal of lead in about 15-20 percent of the park. Councillor Colón Hayes had DEBT | FROM PAGE 1 question to raise property taxes or an $8.2 million override. The third question, which would be a 30-year debt exclusion of $36 million to pay Malden’s share of the new construction of the Northeast Metro Tech, was proposed in November by City Councillors Ryan O’Malley (Ward 4), Karen Colón Hayes (at Large) and Stephen Winslow (Ward 6). Simonelli brought out the “full palette” with his response: “I’m not saying it’s not a good paper,” the Ward 7 Councillor said, “but if we add more colors to the painting, it could become distorted.” “Too many [ballot] questions could become too confusing and be too much to explain,” he said. “It’s too much, too late. Keep it simple.” Councillors O’Malley and Colón Hayes both agreed “this high praise for both the hopedfor additions of the boathouse and salt shed and the River Works project overall. “This project will be transformational,” she said, noting she had served on the Waterfront Access Committee and other related groups in the past. “It is especially exciting with the emphasis on including and reaching out to diverse labor sources and companies with a diverse workforce to complete this project.” “We want to use our limited dollars for our best financial advantage,” OSPCD Director Pratt said in response to Councillor Colón Hayes’ remarks. Pratt also delivered a “shout out” for the work of OSPCD Project Manager Becca McPheeters for her stewardship. “She [McPheeters] does a terrific job,” Pratt said. Ward 2 Councillor Paul Condon said the Section 108 loan program had been a successful one in Malden. “We have had many outstanding [projects] accomplished in this community with the help of [the HUD loan program],” he said. “One of [the state grant agencies] that oversees this project said they have never seen a city word so hard on a project,” Councillor Colón Hayes said. measure will never pass,” but both said they believe in the spirit of it. “The $5.4 million override request would cost the average taxpayer $353 [more] a year; the $8.2 million would be $532. This debt exclusion — money we are mandated to pay — would be $90 a year over the term proposed,” Councillor O’Malley said. “Our voters are intelligent. I don’t think it would be too confusing [with three ballot questions].” Councillors O’Malley and Colón Hayes both voted “yes” in a 9-2 vote against the proposed debt exclusion/ballot question while all other Councillors — Crowe (Ward 1), Condon (Ward 2), Taylor (Ward 5), Winslow (Ward 6), Simonelli (Ward 7), McDonald (at Large), Luong (at Large) and Council President Amanda Linehan (Ward 3) — voted against the measure. Like us on Facebook advocate newspaper Facebook.com/Advocate.news.ma ׉ 7cassandra://iOoZpyuLek3YvR9eulO6LRhtYit4n01Q6Fp0G2PO1iM1`irN{$"׉E)THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, January 21, 2026 Page 7 OBITUARIES Margaret G. Annacone Of Malden. A retired inspector for the Gillette Company, passed away on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at the age of 98.Margaret was born in Boston in 1927, the daughter of Anthony and Antonetta Venezia. She was raised and educated in East Boston, graduating from the Donald McKay High School with the Class of 1945.She then went to work for the Gillette Corporation in Boston, and retired as a Packing Inspector in 1992.Margaret was strong in her faith and would often travel to Boston to attend Mass in St. Anthonys Church. She also enjoyed shopping in Boston while she was there. Margaret is survived by many loving nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Michael Venezia, Cecelia Labella, Anthony Venezia, and Charles Venezia. Funeral services will be held from the Weir-MacCuish Golden Rule Funeral Home, 144 Salem St, Malden on Friday, January 23rd, at 9 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in Sacred Hearts Church, Malden, at 10 AM. Interment to follow in Holy Cross Cemetery. Visitation were held at the funeral home on Thursday, January 22nd. Donations in Margarets memory may be made to the American Cancer Society. Ralph C. Fabian Passed away peacefully on January 16, 2026. He was 100 years old. Ralph was born and raised in Boston's North End. He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy, answering the call of duty during both World War II and the Korean War. In 1953 Ralph married the love of his life JoAnn. In 1958, Ralph made their home in Malden, where he became a longtime resident. Ralph was a longtime construction laborer and a longtime former member of the Malden Moose. Ralph was the husband of the late JoAnn A. (Murphy) Fabiano. He was the loving father of Maureen Nicosia and her husband Lorenzo of Saugus. Ralph was predeceased by 6 siblings. He was the cherished grandfather of Michael and Kayla Nicosia. He is also survived by nieces and nephews. Funeral was held from the A. J. Spadafora Funeral Home, Malden on Thursday January 22nd, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in Saint Joseph's Church, Malden. Visiting hours were held on Wednesday. Interment will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, Malden. Debra Chesson Of Malden. Passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on January 16. She was the cherished daughter of Gerald and Ruth (Parker) Burman and was born and raised in Revere. After her upbringing in Revere, Debra made her home in Malden with her beloved husband, Robert. Together they raised their sons, Michael and Matthew and shared many joyful years of marriage until Robert's passing in November 2025. Debra was the heart of her family. She was deeply devoted to those she loved and believed that time spent together was life's greatest gift. Family gatherings were not just traditions-they were celebrations, often filled with laughter, stories, and unforgettable moments because Debra was there. Her love for food was well known, and she delighted in trying new restaurants, always eager to share a great meal and even better company. To her grandchildren, she was lovingly known as "Lulu." Lulu was funny, charismatic, and full of life-the kind of person who lit up every room she entered. She had a quick wit, a warm smile, and an infectious laugh, and she was truly the life of the party. Her presence made everything feel brighter, louder, and more joyful, and her absence will be felt deeply by all who knew her. Debra's legacy lives on through her sons, Michael Chesson of Fitchburg, and Matthew Chesson of Nashua, NH; her daughters-in-law, Veronica and Krystal; and her beloved grandchildren, David, Mason, Jazmine, and Myles, who will forever carry the love and laughter of their Lulu in their hearts. She is also survived by her brother, Howard Burman of South Carolina. Debra was predeceased by her devoted husband, Robert Chesson. A visitation for Debra will be held at the Weir-MacCuish Golden Rule Funeral Home, 144 Salem Street, Malden, on Wednesday, January 28th, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. A service will follow at 12:00 PM, with interment at Puritan Lawn Memorial Park in Peabody. Lawrence A. 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Qualifying groups of taxpayers include people aged 65 and older who own and occupy the home; people enrolled in MassHealth; and people living with children under age 6 or under 18. Under current law, the first and second quarter property tax bills for a given year are estimated based on the prior year's tax levy and do not reflect any tax increase. As a result, the third and fourth quarter bills must cover the entire increase, so those two bills increase by twice the full-year percentage increase. The legislation would allow a municipality to use its own funds to give qualified persons a tax credit to cover the third and fourth quarter spike. “Every year across the state, there are a few communities in which homeowners face unusually large tax increases,” said sponsor Sen. Will Brownsberger (D-Belmont). “This legislation will give those communities tools to help their most vulnerable taxpayers.” “It is critical that we begin this new year by prioritizing municipal property tax relief,” said sponsor Sen. Nick Collins (D-South Boston). “By advancing these responsible tax relief proposals, we can help ease the burden of rising property tax bills on homeowners without harming small businesses or putting our economy at risk.” “I voted ‘No’ … because tax classification, exceptions and credits, particularly when novel, should be addressed comprehensively and analyzed in the context of other new proposals and existing law,” said Sen. John Keenan (D-Quincy), the only senator to vote against the bill. (A “Yes” vote is for the bill. A “No” vote is against it.) Sen. Jason Lewis Yes INCREASE COMMERCIAL PROPERTY TAX (S 2899) Senate 5-33, rejected an amendment that would allow the city of Boston to shift more of its property tax burden onto commercial real estate in fiscal years 2027 through 2029. The amendment is similar to the one that has been proposed and supported by Boston Mayor Michelle Wu. The amendment would have allowed THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, January 21, 2026 Sen. Jason Lewis No Boston to adjust its property tax classification if residential properties were set to bear a higher share of the total levy than in fiscal year 2025, with maximum shift levels capped at 181.5 percent in fiscal 2027, 180 percent in fiscal 2028 and 178 percent in fiscal 2029. Sen. Mike Rush (D-West Roxbury) framed the amendment as a direct response to what he described as a mounting affordability crisis for Boston homeowners, particularly seniors and working families. He said the amendment was filed at the request of Wu and the Boston City Council and closely mirrored a home rule petition approved by the council and first filed with the Legislature in 2024. He pointed to rising residential values, lagging commercial property values and statutory limits on municipal tax increases as drivers of recent spikes in Boston tax bills. He said the amendment would give Boston temporary flexibility to blunt those increases while state and city officials work on longer-term solutions. Rush added that the average tax bill for a family home rose by more than $500 in 2025 and is expected to increase by more than $700 in 2026, while commercial tax rates have continued to decline. He said those increases have disproportionately affected seniors on fixed incomes. Sen. Will Brownsberger (D-Belmont) argued that the tax shift proposal risked producing unintended and inequitable outcomes. "One narrative, one example, would be, well, I've got a struggling homeowner that's benefiting from it,” said Brownsberger. “That's good, and I've got an office tower whose private equity owners are paying more taxes. Maybe that narrative makes sense in some cases. But on the other hand, the truth is, we're lowering … taxes for your very wealthy single-family homeowner, perhaps living in something of a mansion in the most tony neighborhood of the city. And you're raising taxes on your little garage owner trying to make things work." (A “Yes” vote is for the bill. A “No” vote is against it.) INCREASE TAX RELIEF TO VETERANS (S 1948) Senate 38-0, approved a bill that would allow cities and towns to hike from the current $1,500 to $2,000, the property tax break for veterans and spouses of deceased or disabled veterans in exchange for their providing volunteer services to their municipality. “Our veterans have already given so much in service to our nation, and they deserve to be able to remain in the communities they call home,” said sponsor Sen. Julian Cyr (D-Provincetown). “For many veterans on Cape Cod, the Islands and across Massachusetts, rising property taxes are putting undue pressure on household budgets that are already razor thin. This bill gives communities a meaningful property tax relief tool while recognizing the service veterans have already given so they may live with the dignity they have earned.” (A “Yes” vote is for the bill.) Sen. Jason Lewis Yes CREATE TAX REBATE PROGRAMS (S 2900) Senate 37-1, approved and sent to the House a bill that would give cities and towns the option to create tax rebate programs for residents who already benefit from a local residential exemption. This new rebate program would allow cities and towns to set income and asset thresholds, tailoring relief to local residents’ needs. “It is critical that we begin this new year by prioritizing municipal property tax relief,” said sponsor Sen. Nick Collins (D-South Boston). “By advancing these responsible tax relief proposals, we can help ease the burden of rising property tax bills on homeowners without harming small businesses or putting our economy at risk.” “I voted ‘No’ … because tax classification, exceptions and credits, particularly when novel, should be addressed comprehensively and analyzed in the context of other new proposals and existing law,” said Sen. John Keenan (D-Quincy), the only senator to vote against the bill. 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Offered at $799,900 335 Central Street, Saugus, MA 01906 (781) 233-7300 View all our listings at: CarpenitoRealEstate.com Yes MEANS TESTING (S 2902) Senate 37-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that would make it easier for communities to offer local property tax exemptions to seniors by allowing cities and towns to institute a means-tested senior citizen property tax exemption for income-eligible seniors who have lived in their community for at least 10 years. “Rising property taxes have created serious financial burdens for many elderly residents in my communities and across Massachusetts,” said sponsor Sen. Jason Lewis (D-Winchester). “The legislation that I filed to provide an option for municipalities to opt in to a senior citizen property tax exemption would allow municipalities to support struggling income-eligible seniors and allow many aging residents the ability to continue to live in their communities and not be driven out due to increasing tax burdens.” (A “Yes” vote is for the bill.) Sen. Jason Lewis Yes REQUIRE MORE PUBLIC DISCLOSURES OF FUNDRAISING AND SPENDING BY BALLOT QUESTION GROUPS (S 2898) Senate 38-0, approved and sent to the House a bill requiring more frequent public reporting of fundraising and spending by groups supporting or opposing ballot questions. Under the bill, ballot question committees would be required to provide monthly reports on their finances. After September of that year,, campaigns would have to file biweekly reports until Election Day. The bill would hold ballot question campaigns to the same standard of disclosure already followed by candidates for office. Currently, ballot committees don’t have to report on their finances between Jan. 20 and September. “This is a bipartisan bill, a commonsense bill that we must pass now to ensure our campaign finance laws are strengthened, they're consistent and they're fair for everyone,” said sponsor Sen. Sal DiDomenico (D-Everett). “The ballot questions are happening this fall. We have to get this done right now.” “Statewide ballot questions are a great tool for empowering the public to vote directly on statewide policies, but it is vitally important that our voters know which people and organizations are funding these policy proposals,” continued DiDomenico. “I am proud to pass my legislation through the Senate that will close a loophole in our campaign finance law and ensure our residents have all the information they need to make an educated decision when voting on ballot measures.” “With the increasing number of ballot questions in each election, the need for transparency has never been greater,” said Sen. John Keenan (D-Quincy), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Election Laws. “Many of the questions are backed with significant funding and other resources. This important bill will allow voters to see who is supporting or opposing the ballot questions, sponsoring the ads and paying for mailings. It will help voters make informed decisions at the polls.” (A “Yes” vote is for the bill.) Sen. Jason Lewis Yes SIGNATURE GATHERING FOR BALLOT QUESTIONS (S 2898) Senate 34-3, approved an amendment that would require that when a ballot question group pays people or a company to gather signatures to qualify the question to be on the ballot, the petition must include a disclosure, in a manner to be determined by the secretary of state, which clearly informs potential signers that the petition is being distributed by a paid signature gatherer. Another provision prohibits pay-per-signature arrangements in this signature gathering process and specifically prohibits any bonus pay or incentives, paid to the signature gatherer, which is contingent upon the number of signatures collected. A violation of this ban would be punishable by a fine of between $100 and $10,000 and each signature collected would be considered to be a separate offense.in violation of this section. “By prohibiting pay-per-signature arrangements, we will drastically reduce the unique financial incentive for signature gatherers to mislead voters into signing petitions and ensure that initiative campaigns can still collect signatures based on the merits of the policy,” said sponsor Sen. Barry Finegold (D-Andover). "Individuals should not be restricted from engaging in political activity that is legal,” said Sen. Ryan Fattman (R-Sutton), one of three senators to vote against the amendment. “The proponent of the amendment says that this will stop fraudulent activity, but fraudulent activity is already illegal and published on the signature petition. My position revolves around freedom of speech, where people have the ability to petition their government through a ballot process. The ballot process includes payment to collect signatures in various forms, and I don't believe it's constitutional to ban that." (A “Yes” vote is for the amendment. A “No” vote is against it.) Sen. Jason Lewis Yes BLUE STAR LICENSE PLATES (S 2903) Senate 38-0, approved and sent to the House a proposal that would create a new special license plate to honor the memories of fallen law enforcement officers by offering a symbol of respect to their surviving spouses, parents and children. It would also create a Blue Star Family emblem for motorcycle plates. “As we mourn Officer Stephen LaPorta, who fell in the line of duty, we are reminded that the freedoms and protections of our commonwealth would be impossible without the courage and service of Officer LaPorta and all those who have given their lives to protect others,” said Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland). “His selflessness reflects the very best of public service and stands as a solemn reminder of the profound debt we owe to those who place themselves in harm’s way to keep our communities safe. This legislation represents small but meaningful recognition to honor the memory of the fallen and to affirm our enduring commitment to the families and loved ones they leave behind.” “It’s especially fitting to bestow this highly visible license plate in recognition for families of law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting their communities,” said Sen. Mike Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “This distinctive plate will be available to spouses, children and parents of fallen law enforcement officers all across the commonwealth at no additional charge from the Registry. It is a small but meaningful token of appreciation that we can do to honor these BHRC | SEE PAGE 12 ׉ 7cassandra://9tYaFxxxeEzh2cig-_B1YlFF-0n9lizT_sIQw99EZm00Z`irN{$"׉E