By Ethan Forman
DANVERS — Town departments will throw open their doors with food, fun and crafts tomorrow at six locations during the annual townwide open house.
The event, meant to highlight the inner workings of town government for taxpayers, will include a free raffle to win a Build-a-Bear turtle.
The stuffed animal symbolizes the town's conservation efforts and its green, energy-efficient building projects, such as Holten Richmond Middle School, Town Manager Wayne Marquis said.
From 4 to 7 p.m., residents can park at a single location, then ride the Salem Trolley to the other venues around town, Assistant Town Manager Diane Norris said.
Since parking is limited, Norris said residents should park in the lot across from Town Hall between Elm and Cherry Streets. You can then tour Town Hall and peruse the library.
From Town Hall, you can hop on the trolley bus.
Here is a list of venues and some activities, in no particular order:
Town Hall: Build-A-Bear raffle, sit in a selectman's chair in the Toomey room and refreshments.
The Peabody Institute Library: Halloween crafts, spin art and ice cream.
The Fire Department: Visit from a representative of the Shriners burn center; Jaws of Life cutting tools demonstration on a vehicle; firefighters rappelling off a ladder truck; tips on fire prevention and seat belt safety.
The Police Department: Police Chief Neil Ouellette cooks hot dogs; K-9 demonstration featuring Hogan, the police dog.
The Electric Division: Ride in a bucket truck; tips on power conservation.
Senior Center: A health fair, including blood pressure checks.
