Peabody United to hold Martin Luther King breakfast

PEABODY-The anti-discrimination group Peabody United will hold its first annual Martin Luther King breakfast on Monday, Jan. 19 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Torigian Community Life Center.The event will not only be a first for the group, formerly known as the Peabody No Place for Hate Committee, but also a first for the entire city. No other formal commemoration of the historical figure has ever taken place.?It?s something the members have been hearing,” said Martha Holden, committee chair. “?Why don?t we do anything?? We should commemorate and pay respect to Martin Luther King and all the values that he stood for.”So, said Holden, the group decided to hold a breakfast for all members of the city?s diverse community to attend. The event, which is being sponsored by various local businesses and organizations, will feature keynote speaker Ralph Edwards of Swampscott. Edwards has spent years advocating for disabled people in Massachusetts through his work with the Department of Mental Retardation.?We?re thrilled to have him,” she said.Holden said she expects about 100-150 people to attend the event, adding that the more people, the more successful it will be. Tickets cost $10 per person and include the buffet breakfast, music and door prizes. Holden encourages people to contact her as soon as possible to reserve a spot, although she won?t turn anyone away at the door.?I just don?t want to run out of scrambled eggs,” she quipped.In accordance with President-elect Barack Obama?s National Day of Service, each guest will be asked to help their community with the donation of canned goods or non-perishable food items. All items collected at the door will be given to the North Shore?s largest food pantry, Haven From Hunger.?Hopefully, it?s just going to be a nice opportunity for a fellowship of people from different faiths and different backgrounds,” said Holden.Tickets may be purchased at the main branch of Peabody Institute Library, the Mayor?s Office at City Hall, the Torigian Community Life Center, through your clergy or by calling Holden directly at 978-531-0100, ext. 16.