5 Things You Need to Know Today, Oct. 8

Today is Monday, Oct. 8. Here are five things to know today in Peabody.

1. Columbus Day: According to History.com, "Contrary to popular belief, most educated Europeans in Columbus' day understood that the world was round, but they did not yet know that the Pacific Ocean existed. As a result, Columbus and his contemporaries assumed that only the Atlantic lay between Europe and the riches of the East Indies." Follow the link for even more history on the early explorer and the holiday named for him.
2. Trash and recycling: Regular pickup will be delayed by one day this week due to the holiday today.
3. The National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA), recognizes Oct. 7-13, 2012, as National Fire Prevention Week, an annual public awareness campaign to promote fire safety throughout the United States. This year’s theme is “Have 2 Ways Out!” which focuses on the importance of fire escape planning and practice. Check out the campaign website for more information.
4. Curbside leaf collection starts the week of Oct. 29 Check out this flyer for more details.
5. Regional Clean Energy Forum: A regional forum will be held Oct. 10 from 8:45-11:30 a.m. at the Torigian Center hosted by the Metropolitan Area Planning Council. Guest speakers hail from Gloucester, Ipswich, Winchester and Reading and will discuss clean energy opportunities and challenges. The even is free and open to the public. Anyone in Middlesex or Essex counties interested in clean energy and energy conservation is welcome to attend.