It is Said in Malden….

That the “Winter Wonders” holiday gathering at Malden City Hall this past Sunday was well-attended and featured some heartwarming events such as storybook readings by Mayor Gary Christenson and others, as well Hanukkah and Kwanzaa presentations.

***

That Santa Claus himself was in attendance at “Winter Wonders” and made the day a seemingly endless visit line of happy Malden children and their families.

***

That nightlife business in downtown Malden and its environs is absolutely booming, with just about every restaurant, every night looking very busy as the holiday season has unfolded.

***

That gasoline is about 50-70 cents lower-priced this year than last year.

***

That Malden High senior sprinter Johnny Emmanuel bested a field of 143 runners to win the Mass. Track Coaches Association championship in the 300 dash.

***

That they “razed the function hall… and put up a Storage Unit facility…” as it still sad to drive by Montvale Plaza in Stoneham and see all the orange doors where it once stood, the scene of many, many happy events for so many.

***

That for the first time in a couple of seasons, all the Malden High winter season varsity teams have either winning or right at .500 records.

***

That those giving scarves, gloves, mittens and winter hats as gifts this year might want to let the people they are gifting open them early, as temperatures are expected to nosedive to the low 20s and teen for Christmas weekend.