On the morning of September 11, 2001, the United States suffered one of the most devastating terrorist attacks in its history. The coordinated actions of the extremist group al-Qaeda resulted in the deaths of nearly 3,000 people and reshaped the country’s national identity, security policy, and place in the world. Now,
Like veteran’s organizations all across the country, The American Legion today, September 11th, 2025 has plans to not only remember that day of infamy that took place in America, they also plan to honor those 2,976 people who perished in those coordinated terrorist attacks as well as all the first responders and even the civilians who rushed to the scene to assist so many victims. Solemn ceremonies to remind all Americans what happened on that 11th day of September in 2001 and how
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in a dangerous world, we must always remember that leaving our guard down is not an option in a time filled with violent enemies of all civilized nations are always lurking – waiting to strike at any sign of weakness or any opportunity at all. Those attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City, at the Pentagon in Washington DC and on Flight 93, where a plane load of American passengers on that flight knowingly gave up their lives to prevent the terrorist hijackers from crashing into
population areas in an effort to kill even more people. As most Americans remember, they heroically forced the plane to crash into an open Pennsylvania field instead. All of them perished in an act of bravery that should never be forgotten.
The ceremonies planned across the nation is a testament to the patriotism of most Americans that loudly proclaims that even after 24 years in the past, our people still take the time to remember what happened. As was stated, veterans groups all across our nation will hold
moving and solemn ceremonies as well as churches and synagogues and private citizen organizations of all kinds. There will be speeches, dedications, color guards; flags will be raised and the haunting sound of trumpets playing Taps will be heard in every corner of America.
As Americans still remember the sneak attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7th, 1941, which dragged our nation into World War ll and always will remember, the sneak attack on September 11th, 2001 will or should be etched not only in our
history books but also in the monuments and memorials and yes, the annual ceremonies that continue to this day. Much like the South Boston Vietnam Memorial is rededicated each year to honor our local veterans who gave all in that war, the events that come with 911 should remind us that if we as a nation don’t stay prepared and vigilant, the freedom and liberties provided by our beautiful country enjoys might one day disappear. And that’s why the motto of ‘Never Forget’ has so much meaning.
nlike the great Charlie Kirk, Iryna Zarustka wasn’t famous with millions of young followers. But her name is well known now as the victim of the savage murder on the subway train in Charlotte, North Carolina. She came to America to escape war torn Ukraine and did it the right way. She filled out the paper work, applied and received refugee status and waited her turn. She didn’t sneak across our border and demand to be given benefits by the American taxpayers. She went to work at a pizza restaurant and by all accounts was a hard worker, pleasant to be around and had a dream of one day being a contributing American citizen in the country she immediately fell in love with. And as we all know by reading the reports and watching the live video footage, police say she was brutally stabbed to death for no reason by a career criminal, previously arrested 14 times, mostly for violent criminal activity but released back out into the public by liberal progressive judges who seem to have a soft spot in their hearts (and heads) for criminals and very little compassion for the victims.
It was revealed that at least one time, the suspect was actually released by the court after he promised, by writing a letter to the judge, that he would show up for his court date. Did he show? Take a guess. There is a growing outcry by Americans that these soft on crime judges; appointed by Democrats in Blue cities and states, be held accountable for the irresponsible way they conduct business. They are releasing dangerous hard core criminals back onto the streets constantly and it’s playing a large part in the spiking crime waves and carnage taking place in so many areas in America. Iryna Zarutska would be alive today if the suspect in question was taken off the streets for all of his previous offenses. But as bad as these liberal judges are; perhaps even worse are these ‘progressive/liberal/left-
ist organizations that are raising money for his legal defense. One has to ask –What kind of people start ‘Gofundme accounts for someone who would do what was done to an innocent girl who never harmed a soul? And this brings us to what happened to Charlie Kirk. And although as of this writing, his assailant hasn’t yet been found, is there any doubt that when he or she IS found, that donations from sick leftist haters will come pouring in to defend the murderer?
Charlie Kirk was the perfect mixture of intelligence, drive, compassion and unlimited courage – he feared nothing. A great husband and dad to his family and a friend to all who had the good fortune to meet him. His goal was to go to colleges and high schools; particularly those with a reputation of indoctrinating young students to hate. He would openly challenge and debate Socialist and Communist professors and the students they brain washed. He didn’t go to these campuses to preach or lecture. He would give those who disagreed with him a microphone and a chance to speak their minds and express their views and have a legitimate dialogue with them in front of what was usually thousands of students. He would express his views and explain why he held them. Charlie would tell them why HE loved our country, prayed to God and held traditional values. He listened to those who disagreed and only asked that they in turn listen to him. And listen they sure did.
Because of the way he conducted himself in front of students; making sure they got to hear both sides, Charlie Kirk’s popularity grew into a massive movement. He brought his pro American, common sense and respect to campuses that very often did nothing but shower their students with hatred for our country, for people of faith and all traditional values. His message caught on and he was winning fans among the students with every appearance. But the left
Note: talk back to John Ciccone by email at jciccone@southbostontoday.com
couldn’t handle that. He was converting young minds away from the hate being taught by these professors so he must be stopped. They did all they could to smear him but nothing worked because he was sincere, knew what he was talking about and had the charisma to appeal to literally millions of people of every age.
No one can tell me that the hateful rhetoric coming from certain left wing Democrat politicians isn’t prompting the violence directed at traditional Americans including the assassination of Charlie Kirk and the attempts on President Trump’s life. But here’s a word to the wise. If the haters think they’ve scared
Americans into silence, in reality, they are having the opposite effect. By their actions, they are creating martyrs and causing American patriots by the millions to dig in their heels and continue the work of taking our country back from those working to destroy it. Charlie Kirk’s work will be carried on by the masses of people he has reached. It’s a movement that can’t and won’t the stopped. Americans now realize that there can be no compromise or unity with the haters. They are too consumed in their loathing of America. There can be no peace with creatures like these. They need to be defeated by whatever means available.
Before Josh Kraft signed up for the Boston mayor’s race, he was known for being a nice guy doing spadework in the city’s nonprofit sector, and at his family’s New England Patriots Foundation.
Seven months later, insiders still regard him as a nice guy, but one who isn’t built for a bare-knuckle mayoral campaign, even if his bank account is.
That became more apparent in the initial electoral results from Tuesday night, when Kraft punched his ticket to the November election, but still lost to Mayor Michelle Wu by 49 points as voters winnowed the field of candidates to two from four.
“Let me be clear: we are still in this race,” Kraft told supporters inside the ironworkers union hall in South Boston. “I believe in life there’s always a path, it’s just hard work and sweat equity,” he said, speaking to reporters immediately after.
He’s been learning on the job.
One Kraft story has already entered Boston political lore: When asked during a June mayoral forum which ward he lives in, he sheepishly admitted he didn’t know. Wu, who was seated next to him, held up three fingers, informing him it was Ward 3.
Window Into The State House provides our readers a synopsis of important issues of interest, past and current, that are being proposed, debated or acted upon by the Massachusetts Legislature. Many issues that are not related to local city government services are acted upon and have a direct impact on daily life. They are tax policy, transportation infrastructure, judicial appointments, social services and health, as well as higher education. We will excerpt reports from the gavel-to-gavel coverage of House and Senate sessions by news sources focused on this important aspect of our lives. These sources include a look ahead at the coming week in state government and summaries and analyses of the past week, re-caps of a range of state government activity, as well as links to other news.
That’s also where Wu happened to be hours before Tuesday’s polls closed, delivering pizzas to North End election workers and fielding questions from reporters asking about her response to the latest volley from the Trump administration on immigration. Behind her were top allies who represent the area in the Legislature: Sen. Lydia Edwards and Rep. Aaron Michlewitz, who each took turns holding the mayor’s baby, Mira. (Michlewitz is also her godfather.)
Even the North End’s storied cannoli shops had taken sides: Modern Pastry had Kraft signs in its windows, while Wu recently filmed a campaign stop at Mike’s Pastry, located across the street. (Preliminary results showed Wu winning the neighborhood on Tuesday, including the precinct Kraft lives in.)
Several blocks away, at an unrelated event at the UMass Club, a former incumbent declined to say who got his vote but acknowledged the difficulty of ousting a reigning mayor. Marty Walsh, who also served in the Biden administration, had a close relationship with the Krafts when he was in City Hall, while he and Wu have continued the historical tradition of mayors and their predecessors taking a dislike to each other.
Walsh defended Kraft and his run for mayor, and recalled when City Councilor Tito Jackson ran against him in 2017. “That was important because it forced the administration to reevaluate what we’re doing, see what’s working, what’s not working, [and] allow us the opportunity, after a new election, to reset,” Walsh told MASSterList.
He argued that the son of billionaire Robert Kraft had been unfairly mischaracterized. “He’s his own person,” Walsh said. “And I think hopefully in the next six weeks, they can stick to the issues.”
“I don’t see why he’d get out” of the race after losing the preliminary by double digits, Walsh continued, saying he closed his own gap when he first ran for mayor in 2013.
Asked whether he believes the general election will be more competitive than the prelim, Walsh said, “I hope, I hope. It’s good for Boston.” Gintautas Dumcius
HOME PRICES: Massachusetts home prices continue their ascent, with one in seven municipalities now having a median exceeding $1 million. – Boston Business Journal
TUFTS TUITION: Tufts University is waiving the cost of full tuition for U.S. undergradu -
ates from households making less than $150,000, the school announced. – WBUR IN DEFENSE OF THE SEAPORT: Columnist Scott Kirsner rises to defend Boston’s Seaport neighborhood, saying it’s time to “stop dissing” the area after toymaker Hasbro says it’s moving 700 jobs there. – MassLive GUN PERMIT SUIT: New Hampshire is leading a 25-state challenge to a ruling from the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court that required nonresident gun owners visiting the Bay State to get a temporary firearm permit. – Eagle-Tribune
ENVIRO REGS: Environmental review time for housing projects would be cut to 30 days from one year, under proposed regulations from the Healey administration. –Boston Herald
IMMIGRATION CRACKDOWN: Liam Skinner, the superintendent of Lowell Public Schools, said the community is bracing for increased numbers of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in the area. – GBH News
CAMPING BAN: The Pittsfield City Council sent its proposed public camping ban to the city’s board of health for a review. –Berkshire Eagle
This week, Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn introduced a hearing order to discuss retail theft and the impact on small businesses and residents in the City of Boston. Retail theft impacts not only our small businesses due to the loss of merchandise, but it also incentivizes raising prices for consumers on goods to compensate for lost revenue.
Residents have concerns about the consequences of theft on their quality of life. For years, due to the impacts of the opioid crisis, retailers have been forced to lock up prod-
ucts such as soap and shower products, razor blades, baby formula, and others. More often than not, consumers are required to press a button to call a clerk to unlock, access, and purchase everyday household items.
Beginning in 2019, the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office implemented a policy that would look to dismiss most cases involving 15 nonviolent misdemeanors - including trespassing, shoplifting (including offenses that are essentially shoplifting but charged as larceny), larceny under $250, disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace, receiving stolen property, drug possession, and drug possession with intent to distribute.
According to the data from the Council on Criminal Justice, a nonpartisan think tank, shoplifting increased in Boston by 27% from the first half of 2023 through the same period in 2024, and 55% from the
Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn will hold a hearing to discuss resources for the Boston Crime Laboratory next Monday, September 15th at 2:00pm in the Iannella Chamber at Boston City Hall. Interested neighbors who would like to attend the hearing in-person, or to testify virtually via Zoom, are invited to please reach out to shane.pac@boston.gov. If you would like to also provide written testimony, you can email the committee at ccc.ps@boston. gov or email ed.flynn@boston.gov. Neighbors are also invited to watch the livestream of the hearing at the following link: www.boston.gov/ city-council-tv.
Last year, it was reported that the Boston Crime Laboratary was
severely lagging behind on the testing of sexual assault kits within a state-mandated testing timeline of 30 days. At a hearing to discuss resources for the Crime Lab last year, the delays were attributed to understaffing and a lack of stable leadership. Since then, the City Council voted to internally reallocate $1 million within the Boston Police Department to support the work of the Boston Police Crime Lab during the FY25 budget cycle, including $700,000 to increase the hiring of lab techs and to fill the director vacancy, and $300,000 to purchase new sexual assault testing equipment with DNA testing capacities, such as Y-Screening. This new hearing will follow up on last year’s discussion and real -
first half of 2019 to the same period in 2024. Industry experts have also noted those figures may be conservative estimates due to varying policies between stores on reporting low-level offenses. In 2018, the larceny limit was raised from $250 to $1,200. Any theft under that amount is considered shoplifting, a misdemeanour that can result in one year in jail or a $300 fine. Felony larceny, on the other hand, can carry up to five years in prison or a $25,000 fine. Because the penalties for shoplifting are much lighter, it reduces the risk of serious punishment and may potentially encourage repeat offenders and sophisticated criminals, as small businesses have called attention to offender awareness of the $1,200 larceny threshold.
According to reports in 2023, Boston Police Commissioner Cox indicated, shoplifting increased by 93% compared to 2019. More
recently, according to the Citywide Part One Property Crime report, the category of “Other Larceny” has increased from 4,046 from January 1, 2024 to July 6, 2024 to 4,185 from January 1, 2025 to July 6, 2025.
The City of Boston’s Safe Shopping Initiative partners with Boston Police, the District Attorney’s office, and local businesses to address shoplifting and prevent shoplifting from becoming violent.
“Due to both the opioid and Mass & Cass crisis, increased shoplifting in recent years, and quality of life concerns from residents simply purchasing household items - it is critical that we have zero tolerance when it comes to retail theft due to the impact on our residents and small businesses,” said Councilor Flynn. “It is critical to address these concerns, evaluate the impacts of recent and existing policies, and take meaningful steps to protect the city’s economic vitality and quality of life of those who live, work, and shop here.”
For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617635-3203 or Ed.Flynn@Boston.gov.
location of funding to see if any progress has been made, and assess whether the Crime Lab needs additional resources.
“On the Crime Lab, the City Council voted last year to approve an amendment for a $1 million funding reallocation within the Boston Police Department to support per-
sonnel and upgraded testing capabilities. It is critical that we work to ensure Boston is in compliance with the state mandated testing timeline of 30 days for sexual assault kits,” said Councilor Flynn.
For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617635-3203 or Ed.Flynn@Boston.gov.
This funding builds on the Mayor’s efforts to create a fun and safe environment for kids and families to enjoy community with a mini-grant opportunity for neighborhoods to host Halloween and fall harvest block parties.
Mayor Michelle Wu and the Community Engagement Cabinet’s Office of Civic Organizing announced applications are now open for the Spooky Streets Grant Program. Residents and community groups who apply and get approved will receive a mini-grant for $300 to purchase items such as candy, pumpkins, decorations, and face paint, making it easier and more affordable for neighborhoods to host Halloween and Fall and Harvest block parties. This announcement builds on the Mayor’s work to make Boston a home for everyone and City efforts to create fun and safe programming for kids and families to build community and enjoy Boston neighborhoods.
“I’m excited to bring back Boston’s very popular Spooky Streets program, which has helped families and neighborhoods safely celebrate Halloween and fall with their friends and community through lively block parties,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “I look forward to seeing the creativity of our residents shine through their costumes and decorations this fall!”
This summer, the Mayor’s Office of Civic Organizing provided 110 grants to residents and community groups totaling $61,700 across 18 neighborhoods in Boston through the City’s Block Party Grant Program. The Cummings Foundation provided funding to support the Mayor’s efforts to help residents activate their neighborhoods with events that bring unity and joy.
“We’re excited to bring back the
Spooky Streets Grant and expand its reach this year with the generous support of The Cummings Foundation,” said Director of the Office of Civic Organizing Nathalia Benitez-Perez.
“These grants empower communities to celebrate together and create lasting memories for kids and families across Boston. The Spooky Streets Grant gives neighbors the chance to transform their streets into festive, traffic-free spaces and build new traditions during the Fall and Harvest season.”
For residents interested in applying, please see below:
* Apply for the Play Street Closing Permit first. Then you will be prompted to apply for the $300 Spooky Streets minigrant. Applying for a permit does not guarantee a grant. You must apply for the mini-grant separately to be considered for the Spooky Street grant.
* To be eligible, all block parties must be free and open to the public. Residents cannot sell or charge for anything at the event.
* Block parties cannot be hosted on parks or private lots, and must be on a public street.
* Block parties must be hosted the week leading up to Halloween from Friday, October 24 - Sunday, November 2.
* Block parties do not have to be Halloween-themed.
“Last year’s grant made it possible for us to bring our neighborhood together in a really special way. We were able to purchase food and favors for our neighbors, which made the gathering both welcoming and fun for everyone. The light-up Halloween favors we purchased with the grant helped keep all of our trick-or-treaters safe as the evening got darker. It also made the neighborhood very festive with children in bright necklaces, rings, and bracelets,” said Philip Cheng, Dorchester resident. “Our block party definitely elevated our typical Halloween—it gave neighbors a chance to connect, enjoy public spaces and strengthen our sense of community. I hope to see the Spooky Streets Grant program for many years to create a sense of belonging that lasts well beyond the event itself.”
The deadline to apply for a Spooky Streets grant is Monday, September 22 at 5:00 p.m.
Mayor Michelle Wu today announced that the Boston Parks and Recreation Department will distribute over 15,000 daffodil bulbs for planting on public ways citywide through the “Boston Blooms with Daffodils” beautification initiative started in 2011.
Individuals, civic associations, church groups, sports leagues, scout troops, open space advocates, and park friends are encouraged to participate. Last year, over 100 community groups planted bulbs in neighborhoods across the City.
Registration is now open and is available at boston.gov/bostonblooms. The online application form will remain open until late September on a rolling basis. Due to limited supply, groups are not guaranteed bulbs but the Parks Department will strive to accommodate all requests. The application deadline is September 28 and may be closed sooner if demand exceeds supply.
Bulbs will be available for pickup on October 28 and November 4 and plantings will take place in approved locations on the weekends of October 30 and November 6. The Parks Department will contact interested groups to provide bulb pick-up instructions and dates. Groups and individuals are asked to use their own tools.
The Boston Parks and Recreation Department encourages volunteers to take photos of their groups on planting days and share them via social media using the hashtag #BostonBlooms and tagging @bostonparksdept.
For more information on “Boston Blooms with Daffodils,” call (617) 961-3004 or email parks@boston.gov. To stay up to date with news, events, and improvements in Boston parks visit boston.gov/parks, call (617) 6354505, join our email list, and follow our social channels @bostonparksdept on X, Facebook, Instagram, and @parks.boston.gov on Bluesky.
This year’s rededication ceremony will include for the first time veterans of the South Vietnam Army
South Boston Vietnam Veterans will celebrate the 44th Anniversary of the South Boston Vietnam Memorial located in Medal of Honor Park on Sunday, September 14.
A Memorial Mass will be held in St. Brigid Church, 841 East Broadway, South Boston, at 10:30 a.m., followed by an 11:30 a.m. rededication ceremony at the memorial. For the first time, the rededication ceremony will include veterans of the South Vietnam Army.
Major General Gary W. Keefe, Adjutant General of the Massachusetts National Guard, will deliver the keynote address.
Mayor Michelle Wu, Congress-
man Stephen Lynch and local elected officials are expected to attend, along with 25 Gold Star Families from South Boston and many Vietnam Veterans.
The South Boston Vietnam Memorial was among America’s first formal memorials for Vietnam Veterans – predating the dedication of the national Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. by 13 months. It honors 25 men from South Boston who gave their lives during the war. South Boston suffered one of the highest losses of men killed in action in the country for a community of its size.
The South Boston Vietnam Memorial was dedicated on Sept. 13,
1981, and a rededication ceremony is held every September.
The 25 men honored on the South Boston Vietnam Memorial are: Joseph J. Agri, LCpl USMC; Charles A. Bazzinotti, 1stLt USA; Richard J. Borovick, SP4 USA; John C. Calhoun, LCpl USMC; John H. Cole, PFC USMC; Paul M. Daley, SP6 USA; Ronald L. Delverde, PFC USMC; Joseph F. Desmond, PFC USMC; Joseph W. Dunn, PFC USMC; Devon M. Enman, Sgt USA; Gene D. Grover, SSgt USMC; Frank C. Hubicsak, PFC USA; Douglas J. Itri, SP5 USA; John P. Jacobs, Cpl USMC; John G. Joyce, Cpl USA; Edward W. Milan, Sgt USAF;
James O’Toole, PFC USA; Burton Peterson, LCpl USMC; Paul H. Sheehan, 1stSgt USMC; James J. Stewart, PFC USMC; Edward Stone, PFC USMC; Edward M. Sullivan, PFC USMC; Joseph Thomas, E. PFC USMC; Donald J. Turner, LCpl USMC; James K. Wheeler, SP6 USA.
Get ready, Southie! The South Boston Street Fest is celebrating its 25th year, and the party is going to be epic!
On Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, East Broadway between I and L streets will be transformed into a vibrant, music-filled, food-packed, shoppingcentric block party from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Rain date: Saturday, Sept. 27.)
Since its debut in 2000, the South Boston Street Fest has grown from a sidewalk sale into one of the neighborhood’s most beloved traditions, drawing thousands each year. Now in its silver anniversary year, the South Boston Chamber of Commerce and South Boston Neighborhood Development Corporation are pulling out all the stops — with more than 100 local shops, restaurants, artists, and community groups coming together to showcase the
very best of Southie.
Two stages will keep the entertainment going all day long, featuring something for everyone, including: Shanel Sugar and Friends, Seldom Chalant, Tom Baker & the Troublemakers, Fionn Lonergan, and up-and-coming acts from Michael Caputo’s MusicBall Entertainment. The celebration begins with The Late Risers strolling the streets to get the crowd excited.
This year’s Thomas J. Butler
South Boston Small Business Leadership Award will go to Joey Arcari, owner of Monarc Development. His presentation will take place at 11:30 a.m. on the Library Stage, which will now be known as the Karen Stanley Stage.
The ceremony will be followed by performances from Woods School of Irish Dance and Miss Linda’s School
of Dance; singers and dancers from the St. George Albanian Orthodox Cathedral; and self-defense demos from Ultimate Self-Defense.
For the kids, there’s no shortage of fun — touch a truck, balloon twisters, caricature artists, face painters, pirates, princesses, and yes … Bluey will be there!
Foodies, come hungry. Enjoy street-side dining from The Broadway, The Playwright, Roza Lyons, and Deja Brew, plus grab-and-go bites from neighborhood favorites Publico Street Bistro, Sal’s Ristorante & Pizzeria, Capo Restaurant & Supper Club, Lincoln Tavern & Restaurant, Layla’s American Tavern, Fresh Boston, Playa Bowls, Pig Beach BBQ, Hunter’s Kitchen & Bar, Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar, Fat Baby, Dig Inn, Bottega del Sud, Park City Southie, and Frios Gourmet Pops.
Festival-goers can also score one-day-only shopping deals from local shops, browse incredible artwork from South Boston’s creative community, and connect with local nonprofits making a difference in the neighborhood.
The 25th South Boston Street Fest promises a day packed with music, flavor, community spirit — and the perfect chance to celebrate Southie in style.
A big thanks to our sponsors. For more information and the latest updates, visit the official South Boston Street Fest website at www.southbostonstreetfest.com.
If your home has plumbing fixtures in the basement, like a toilet or sink, a backwater valve will prevent sewage from flowing into your home during heavy rains or sewer backups.
Without a properly installed and maintained valve your basement is vulnerable to costly and hazardous sewage backups.
Inspect regularly, especially before storms. Wear protective gloves and eyewear. Remove debris from valve seat and flapper with water and gentle scrubbing.
Note: PSA for informational purposes. Backwater valve must be installed by a licensed plumber. BWSC does not install valves.
Pet waste discarded on the street or in catch basins carries harmful bacteria straight into the waterways we rely on for recreation.
Remember to “Scoop the Poop” and dispose of pet waste in the trash.
Proper disposal of pet waste protects the environment and our waterways from contamination.
Dispose of pet waste in the trash!
East Boston native and retired U.S. Coast Guard veteran Yolanda Cerullo celebrated for a second time, her 102nd birthday, with honors from the House of Representatives. Surrounded by best friend Joanie Miller, staff and community members at her residence, Compass on the Bay, Ms. Cerullo was recognized for her lifetime of
service, kindness, and enduring spirit.
State Representative David Biele presented Yolanda with an official resolution from the Massachusetts House of Representatives, recognizing her remarkable life and legacy. As part of the tribute, she was presented with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts flag that had been flown over the State House in
her honor and an esteemed gesture reserved for citizens who have made a meaningful impact.
Ms. Cerullo, who served in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II, is admired not only for her military service but also for her warmth and wisdom. Known for her grace and good humor, Yolanda continues to be a positive presence at Compass
on the Bay, where she is cherished by staff and fellow residents alike.
When asked the secret to a long and happy life, Yolanda offered a simple but powerful piece of advice: “Smile and be kind to everyone.”
Yolanda Cerullo, we thank you for your service, your kindness, and the example you continue to set for us all. God Bless!
Gate of Heaven & St. Brigid Religious Education Registration for Grades K – 6 for 2025-2026
Sunday, Sept. 21st at 8:30AM In Cushing Hall, downstairs St. Brigid Church Classes, also, begin on Sunday, Sept. 21st at 9AM, in Cushing Hall, followed by 10:30AM Family Mass • You can also Register your child online at www.gateofheavenstbrigid.org/religious-education
• Our Sacramental Program is a two-year program in accordance with Archdiocesan Guidelines.
• Please note that parents should enroll their children in the 1st Grade Program for their child to receive their Sacrament of First Holy Communion in the 2nd Grade in 2027.
• For those students enrolling in 1st Grade who were not Baptized in either St. Brigid or Gate of Heaven Church, please provide a copy of your child’s Baptismal Certificate to register.
• Our first class will be held on Sunday morning, Sept. 21, 2025, at 9 AM at Cushing Hall, downstairs at St. Brigid Church.
• Any questions, please visit our website at www.gateofheavenstbrigid.org/religiouseducation and fill out our Online Registration Form under “Religious Education” or you can come with your child and fill out a form in person on Sunday, Sept. 21st.
In preparation for the new school year, the Mary Ann Brett Food Pantry distributed over 400 backpacks to neighbors and families
It was a beautiful day for St. Peter Academy’s Annual Back to School BBQ. We met new friends and reconnected with the old ones. Parents and teachers mingled while the students played on the school’s playground. Mr. Dilba announced we were off to a great school year and
invited everyone to Curriculum Night on October 23rd at 6:00 pm.
The burgers and hot dogs generously donated by Sullivans at Castle Island were delicious! The cheese pizza from Land of Pizza is always a big hit too! Thank you to both of our donors. We appreciate you!
We are looking forward to all the fun family community events planned for this year.
St. Peter Academy is accepting applications for the current school year. St. Peter Academy is an independent, communitybased private school and serves students from ages 15 months through grade 6. SPA is currently accepting applications for the limited spaces available in the year-round toddler program (beginning at age 15 months) and
for students in Pre-K (School Year and Full Year Programs), Kindergarten and grades 1-6. Financial Aid Available. Two Scholarships will be offered this year for applicants for Grades 1 through 6. You may request scholarship information from the Front Office (spa@stpeteracademy.com). Appointments for individual virtual tours can be made by contacting Maria Blasi, at 617-268-0750 or by emailing spa@StPeterAcademy.com.
Quoting our Principal, Dr. Helenann Civian, “We hope everyone had a great Labor Day Weekend and a fantastic Summer! We are all looking forward to another Wonderful School Year here at South Boston Catholic Academy! We are honored to be able to welcome all our old and new students, families,
faculty and staff to SBCA. We are excited to work closely with our families to ensure their child/ children are learning and receiving the highest quality of support, love and education. We are so thankful to God that we are starting the new school year with such a dedicated, caring and talented faculty and staff. All I can say is that all our
students are amazing!”
From our ECEC Director, Mrs. Kara Murphy, “A Big Welcome to all the wonderful students, families, faculty and staff in the Early Childhood Education Center. We are very excited for the new 2025-2026 school year. We had a great first week, marking the start of many more great weeks to come!” SBCA
School Prayer...Dear God, Thank you for creating us and giving us this day, Help us grow in faith and show respect in every way, We welcome all people into our school family with care, Work hard in all subjects, have patience, and share. Guide us as we do our best to lead and learn today, And celebrate as proud students’ of SBCA. New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicacademy.org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.
Hthrilled to host their 12th an nual Belles of the Brawl Boxing Charity event at the MGM Music Hall in Fenway on Thursday, October 9, 2025. Tickets are on sale now for this legendary all women’s boxing event in the organizations home base, with doors opening at 6:30pm and fights beginning at 7:30pm.
This fall, twenty-six brave, courageous women living and working in the Greater Boston area will compete in boxing matches throughout the night, against equally skilled opponents to help raise money for cancer research,
awareness, survivorship, and care. Participants are everyday individuals with a shared goal of wanting to fight for a cure for cancer. Each individual trains individually and within small, intimate groups, learning the fundamentals of the sweet science, while creating lasting bonds with their trainers and Haymakers for Hope colleagues.
Since its initial event in 2011, Haymakers for Hope has raised more than $35 million towards continuous impact of their mission. The organization has transformed more than 1,400 ordinary participants into extraordinary amateur fighters. The women gearing up for their boxing debut at this year’s event have raised over $231K and counting!
in Arlington, Virginia.
24 years later, the phrase “Never Forget” continues to serve not only as a tribute to the lives lost but also as a call to remembrance, unity, and vigilance.
The attacks unfolded in a matter of hours but changed the course of history:
• 8:46 a.m. (ET) – American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City.
• 9:03 a.m. – United Airlines Flight 175 hit the South Tower.
• 9:37 a.m. – American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon
• 10:03 a.m. – United Airlines Flight 93 crashed into a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, after passengers heroically attempted to retake the hijacked plane.
Both towers of the World Trade Center collapsed within two hours, sending ash and debris across Lower Manhattan and leaving a lasting wound on the city and the nation.
The death toll on 9/11 reached 2,977 people, including civilians from over 90 countries, 343 firefighters, 60 police officers, and the passengers and crew aboard the four flights. In the years since, tens of
Haymakers for Hope Belles of the Brawl fights are scheduled for three, two-minute rounds, and the entire boxing card is sanctioned by USA Boxing. General admission tickets are $85 and are available for purchase at www.haymakersforhope.org.
For the list of matchups, visit Belles of the Brawl XII Boston 2025 Matchups. To learn more about Haymakers for Hope and their mission, visit haymakersforhope.org.
This event is ONLY for guests ages 21 and up. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.haymakersforhope.org.
Thursday, October 9th, 2025
6:30 PM (doors open)
7:30 – 11:30 PM (boxing matches)
MGM Music Hall
thousands more, including rescue and recovery workers have suffered from 9/11 related illnesses, many of which have proven fatal due to exposure to toxic dust and debris at Ground Zero.
The phrase “Never Forget” emerged in the aftermath of the attacks, becoming a national refrain. It is a promise to honor those who died, recognize the heroism of first responders; remember the Patriotism that followed and the coming together of this great Country as Americans.
In 2025, many young adults and teenagers were born after 2001. For them, 9/11 is not a memory, but history, which makes education more important than ever. Schools in many states now include 9/11 in social studies or history curricula. Documentaries, oral history projects, and digital archives help keep the stories of survivors and victims alive.
Organizations like the 9/11 Memorial & Museum and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation continue to educate and support affected families and the public.
Today, the United States marks the 24th anniversary with cere -
2 Lansdowne Street Boston, MA 02215
About Haymakers for Hope: Haymakers for Hope is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to raising money and awareness for cancer research, care, and survivorship through organized charitable boxing events. Founded in 2010 by
Andrew Myerson and Julie Anne Kelly, Haymakers for Hope, has helped raise over $35 million to knock out cancer. For more information, visit us at www.haymakersforhope.org, friend us at www. facebook.com/haymakers4hope and follow us at www.twitter.com/haymakers4hope, https://www.instagram.com/haymakers4hope, and www.linkedin. com/company/haymakers-for-hope.
monies and acts of service across the country. In 2009, Congress designated September 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance, encouraging Americans to honor the victims through community involvement. Across the country today volunteers are serving meals at shelters, communities are cleaning parks and public spaces and people are donating to charities that support veterans, first responders, and 9/11 families The idea is simple but powerful, turning remembrance into action.
As the world changes and memories fade, 9/11 remains a defining moment in modern American history. The pain, courage, and unity of that day and its aftermath must not be forgotten.
To “Never Forget” means more than recalling tragedy. It means honoring the innocent lives lost, recognizing the bravery of those who risked or gave everything to help others, teaching the truth of what happened to future generations and remaining committed to the values of unity, service, and resilience. Today, We Remember. Tomorrow, We Carry Forward.
The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) is undertaking important runway safety work this month, where an Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) is being installed at the end of Runway 27. Maintaining and improving Boston Logan’s runways is critical to the safety of all who use the airport. To accommodate the construction, Runway 9-27 has been closed since September 2, and will reopen on November 14.
This project requires two 75-day closures of the runway over the next year. The first closure began on September 2, 2025, and the second will begin after July 1, 2026. While this runway is closed, there will be an impact on the number of planes that can land and take off at Boston Logan. This could cause delays, especially if there are other impacts due to the weather or diversions, among other situations.
The goal of this project is to enhance safety for aircraft, passengers and crew during emergency situations by improving the Runway Safety Area (RSA) at the end of Runway 27, in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) design and safety standards. A deck for the EMAS will be constructed partially in the water, however this project does not extend the runway or change its operational capacity. Construction activity will take place 7 days a week. Work hours for noise-producing work are as follows: Monday-Friday 7AM to 7PM, Saturday 8AM to 7PM and Sunday 9AM to 7 PM.
EMAS is a vital safety system at Boston Logan and other airports located near water or ground elevation changes. This system is made of lightweight collapsible material that is designed to stop a plane that has overshot the runway. Due to the geography around the airport, this system is extremely important and is a FAA-approved method for achieving safety standards. This system is used at airports around the world and has prevented innumerable serious accidents. Boston Logan currently has two other EMAS systems in use, one at the end of Runway 22R and the other at the end of Runway 33L.
Going Above and Beyond. The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) owns and operates Boston Logan International Airport, public terminals in the Port of Boston, Hanscom Field, and Worcester Regional Airport. For more information, please visit massport.com.
