Speliotis Sponsors Lyme Disease Awareness Day Program

Today is Monday, April 29. Here are five things to know today in Peabody.

1. It's Lyme Disease Awareness Day at the State House. State Rep. Ted Speliotis has sponsored an event today from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. where Lyme Awareness of Cape Cod, Sturbridge Lyme Awareness of Massachusetts and the Boston Lyme Group will help draw attention to the insidious tick-borne disease that affects thousands of Bay State residents each year and can cause long-term physical and neurological damage if left untreated. A number of speakers will elaborate on the effects of the disease and why it does often go untreated. The governor is also declaring May as Lyme Disease Awareness Month in Massachusetts. “I’m amazed at how many people’s lives are affected by this very serious disease. Lyme disease is often misdiagnosed and many people suffer for very long periods of time before they are diagnosed and treated properly,” says Speliotis. “Our current laws fall far short in ensuring that folks get covered for the treatment they need.” The event is free and open to the public in Nurse’s Hall on the second floor of the State House.
2. Don't forget to vote tomorrow: There's just a week left now until the primary for that open U.S. Senate seat. On the Republican side it's Gabriel Gomez, Rep. Dan Winslow and Michael Sullivan. On the Democrats' side it's between congressmen Stephen Lynch, Ed Markey and Brett Rhyne, a write-in candidate. Here's a list of the polls in Peabody.
3. Sun safety: The Peabody Health Department, Salem State University nursing students and the Melanoma Education Foundation are offering an educational program Wednesday on skin cancer prevention and a free facial skin analysis. The event will be held in the auditorium at Peabody Municipal Light Plant from 12:30-2 p.m. All are welcome.
4. Tickets still available for George Peabody Legacy Awards: The first annual awards ceremony sponsored by the Peabody Education Foundation will be held at City Hall on May 2 (6 p.m.). Tickets are $35 per person. Call 978-531-7374.
5. Mommy's Night Out at the REC: The Recreational Education Center invites mothers to take a break Friday night and join the semi-annual event, which features various vendors, wine, appetizers and raffles.

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