On Saturday, Beltran Street came alive with music, laughter, and the smell of delicious food as residents gathered for Malden’s porchfest, a community street event organized by Linda Zalk from noon to 6 PM. Families, friends, and neighbors filled the blocked-off street to enjoy live performances, local art, and cultural displays that celebrated Malden’s diversity.
The event featured two musical performances by Laura Lee at 1 PM and the African Roots Band at 4 PM. Both drew crowds who danced and sang. Between sets, visitors explored tables filled with books, crafts, and games for kids. Zalk also read stories to children, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere that kept everyone smiling.
One of the highlights of the day was the presence of ZAMIMA, the youth-led organization founded by junior Safa Niazi and sophomore Khkola Niazi, both reporters for the Blue & Gold, known for supporting Afghan girls who are denied access to education. ZAMIMA joined Porchfest for fundraising and shared traditional Afghan food with the community, which instantly became a hit among attendees.
Local resident Ahmad Ghani expressed, “The food was amazing. It was my first time trying Afghan dishes, and they were delicious.”Another attendee, Lesa, added, “I came last year too, but this year felt even better. The food, music, and people made it such a lively and welcoming event.”
Throughout the afternoon, people chatted with neighbors, enjoyed the music, and returned for seconds or even thirds. The street was safely closed to traffic, allowing children to play freely with chalk drawing and games while parents relaxed under the shade of trees.
By the end of the day, the sense of community was clear—Porchfest was not just about entertainment but about connection. It brought together people of all backgrounds to share stories, food, and laughter, reminding everyone that Malden’s strength lies in its diversity and togetherness.
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