Public Services Open Late Friday Nights for Leaf Disposal

Today is Friday, Nov. 22. Here are five things to know today in Peabody.

1. If you have leaves to dump off at the Department of Public Services, the Farm Avenue facility will be staying open until 7 p.m. on Friday nights through Dec. 6 just for that purpose. Mayor Ted Bettencourt announced the extended hours earlier this week. “During this peak period of fall leaf collection, we want to give residents some extra time to dispose of their yard waste,” he said. The leaf disposal service is available to regular Peabody residents and identification is required at the time of drop-off. No contractors or contractor vehicles will be allowed. For more information, call 978-536-0600.
2. Dress down for hunger on Friday. Haven from Hunger is asking local businesses to participate in a "Dress Down Day for Hunger" on Nov. 22. The food pantry asks employers to offer their employees an option to dress down for the day for a suggested donation of $5 to $10 that goes to the Haven. The pantry is located at 71 Wallis St. and serves residents from Peabody, Salem and Lynnfield. Visit www.havenfromhunger.org for more information.
3. The Giving Garden at the Liberty Tree Mall returns on Friday to accept donations to local charities through the holiday season. The five trees, representing five organizations, are located in the Best Buy wing of the mall. Each tree contains ornaments of specific wishes for that organization and mall shoppers can then purchase an item listed and bring it back to the Giving Garden by Dec. 20 to ensure delivery by Christmas. Gifts can also be dropped off directly at each organization. This year it's Haven from Hunger, Operation Troop Support, Salvation Army Angel Tree, Toys for Tots and Hope on Wheels (run by Hyundai Village of Danvers).
4. The annual Scandinavian Fair at Community Covenant Church is this Saturday from 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
5. The West Memorial Elementary School is also holding it annual craft fair this Saturday at 10 a.m.
6. The second annual Latkepalooza Chanukah Celebration at Aviv Centers for Living is this Sunday from noon - 3 p.m. It's a free afternon of fun aimed at getting into the Chanukah spirit. There will be latke tastings, workshops, activities for children, dancing, vendors, lectures, a photo booth and a kosher lunch and snacks available for purchase.
7. You and your pet can snag a photo with Santa Sunday from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Northshore Mall down in the lower level of the Nordstrom wing. All pets must be leashed or crated.