Historic North End Sites Receive Grants, New Year and Season Begin

North End residents are now feeling the crisp air of autumn that officially starts today.

At this time of year, people celebrate Rosh Hashanah -- the Jewish New Year -- that occurred from sundown on Sunday until sunset on Tuesday. Jewish people pray during the two-day holiday, ask to be kept in the 'Book of Life' and perform various customs including dipping apples in honey to ensure a sweet new year ahead.

Speaking of spirituality, Ralph Bova certainly follows The Golden Rule. One of the owners of Bova's Bakery on Salem Street, he declined pressing charges against Robert McTernan, a 25-year-old tourist from Ireland who threatened staff and stole cannoli fom the shop last week.

McTernan was charged with lareny under $250 on Monday and ordered never to enter the bakery again. In addition, he was sent home, in the custody of his parents, and will be required to perform community service and attend substance abuse rehabilitation.

Ralph Bova said he was just relieved all the members of his staff were unharmed.

More good news happened in the neighborhood on Tuesday when the Freedom Trial Foundation bestowed $100,000 to be shared by the Old North Church and the Copp's Hill Burying Ground. The money will help preserve the historic sites. 

Resident Sam Bell who has loved the neighborhood since she was a child, realized when she got her first professional job that this was the obvious place to live.

Heart & Sole owner Elaine DiGangi spent Monday in her shop on Hanover Street but then went on a buying trip for a few days. The life-long North End resident personally selects every item in the bouttique -- all of which she sells for under $100.