Five Things That Made Our Week: Dec. 11 to Dec. 18

The holiday in season is in full swing. Here is a look back at five of last week's biggest stories:

1.

Taxes are going up, but not by too much. On the residential end, the rate per $1,000 will increase from $13.52 to $13.92. On the commercial side, the rate will increase from $18.63 to $19.16.

2.

Last Sunday a caller reported that his neighbor made a threat to him at the Dunkin Donuts on Main Street. Also last Sunday, a Salem Street resident reported a boy walked down the street with a gun. It turned out to be an air gun; the police brought the boy home. 

3.

On Monday, a caller reported turkeys on the road at the corner of Osgood Street and Massachusetts Avenue. The turkeys were reportedly causing a traffic jam, and officer Mark Wilson was able to get the turkeys to move on their way. About eight hours later, another officer had to come and displace the turkeys. 

4.

North Andover residents have been wondering why the Andover Flower Farm doesn't have its usual Christmas decorations on display. On Thursday, Patch reported that the farm has closed and the property was sold. Former owner Joanne Fiore is now focusing on flowers for weddings and other events. 

5.

Picking out a Christmas tree at Smolak Farms has never been so easy! Newfoundland dogs from the Newfoundland Club of New England helped families bring trees to their cars by pulling them on small wagons. Donactions were collected at the annual event and proceeds will go to the NCNE Rescue & Referral Service to help save Newfoundlands from the pound.