By Stefan Swaintek Taunton Daily Gazette
TAUNTON, MA – A fundraiser to help put on this year’s 9/11 tribute will be held this Saturday.
The tribute, held for the last 12 years by Irene Fernandes, is in memory of Taunton native Peter A. Gay and other victims who lost their lives in the attacks.
Gay was a passenger on American Airlines Flight 11 when it was hijacked by terrorists and crashed into the World Trade Center.
The fundraiser is slated for Saturday at 6 p.m. at John Shea Court, 21 Hodges Ave. It was organized to help defray the cost of catering services for the 9/11 commemoration.
Though she has made all the food herself in the past, Fernandes said that she is “getting up in age” and that it is getting more difficult to run these events.
Fernandes became friends with Peter A. Gay’s father, the late Peter B. Gay, when their sons entered college and became roommates.
“We became very good friends. This event is a family thing kind of because we’ve become so close,” Fernandes said.
The fundraiser is open to the public and will feature baskets for raffle, a 50/50 raffle and speeches from friends and family members.
The 9/11 ceremony will also be held at John Shea Court. Police, firefighters, the honor guard, as well as local dignitaries will be in attendance as well as members of Gay’s family. Fernandes plans to sing the National Anthem.
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Fundraiser for Taunton’s annual 9/11 tribute
WHERE: John Shea Court , 21 Hodges Ave.
WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 16, at 6 p.m.
