Friends of the MPL Annual Wine Tasting Gala Fundraiser

The Friends of the Malden Public Library hosted their annual Wine Tasting Gala Fundraiser on Friday, May 9. Despite the rain and gloomy skies, guests were welcomed through the Salem Street doors into warm, dry quarters to enjoy the grandeur of the Converse Memorial Building. Maldonians and friends were able to once again admire the exquisite arches of the Richardsonian portico and the carved white oak entryway.

Some were inhibited by the uncooperative weather; however, Friends and Library staff calculate overall attendance to be at least 50% more than during the 2024 event. “Last year was our first Wine Tasting Gala since the pandemic – we wanted to start off small to ensure the quality of the experience,” stated Friends of the MPL President Mary Ellen O’Meara. “This year our team was ready and went above and beyond expectations!”

In the Ryder Art Gallery, patrons were further delighted by the relaxed and sophisticated jazz played by the ITZ Trio making the atmosphere even more enjoyable. The refinement and charm of the Art Galleries and the tribute to Malden artist Frank Stella provided the perfect backdrop for the Wine Tasting Gala.

Event sponsor Kappy’s Fine Wines & Spirits (Rte. 1, Malden) did not disappoint. For the second year in a row, they provided a fabulous selection of wines, served by knowledgeable, certified pourers. Tasters found flavors and aromas for all palates and pocketbooks. Craft mocktails were tasted also — a first at this event — for those who do not drink alcoholic beverages. Mocktails will be included in the Tasting from now on. In addition to donating the wine and mocktails to the fundraiser, Kappy’s will also donate 10% of the proceeds from all purchases ordered at the event. Thank you, Kappy’s Fine Wines & Spirits!

The Wine Tasting Gala could not have been possible without the support of local business sponsors. The Friends would like to wholeheartedly thank our generous donors:

Newberry Award: All-Tech Electric.

Caldecott Award: Buckley Brothers, CRG Graphics, John Parcellin, Esq.

And Apex Computers, Donnelly & Reed Insurance Agency, Inc., Jordan Shapiro, Esq., Principal Financial Group Foundation, Yankee Candle, Yankee Pest Control.

The Friends are extremely grateful to the extraordinary dining establishments that donated to our “7 Nights Dining in Malden” gift baskets: 3 Amigos Bar & Grill, Bobby C’s Ristorante, Exchange Street Bistro, Franny’s, Hugh O’Neill’s Restaurant & Pub, Mineirão Steakhouse, Pearl Street Station Restaurant, Thaiger Den.

A big shout-out to donors who donated a gift card for our silent auction: American Repertory Theater, Cataldo Ambulance Service Training Center, Erica Mei Studios, GrubStreet, Institute of Contemporary Art, Lesa Cline-Ransome, Martin’s Florist & Greenhouse, Master Team Barbershop, Motiv8 Pilates, Old Town Trolley Tours of Boston, Paolo D. Parrucchiere, Malden’s Rock Spot Climbing, Serenity in the City Salon & Spa, Skybound Fitness, The Huntington Theatre, Zenith Comics.