Five Things To Know Today

1.  Today is Wednesday, May 18.  The National Weather Service predicts rain, possible thunderstorms, and a high temperature near 60 degrees. Rain could be heavy at times. The low will dip down to 55 degrees tonight.

2.  Mothers Against Drunk Driving and the Groton Adolescent Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition are offering a free program at 6 p.m. March 25 in the Groton Public Library about how to talk to your children about alcohol. The program, called "Power of Parents, It's Your Influence" offers a 30-minute presentation about the topic and a handbook similar to one created by Dr. Robert Turrisi ,of Pennslyvania State University. Turrisi found that parents who talked to their college-age children about drinking reduced the number of behavioral problems associated with alcohol.

3.  Electric Boat wil be among the manufacturing companies gathered today in Hartford for Manufacturing & Technology Day at the state Capitol. Companies will speak about issues affecting their industries as well as showcase their products. The event will also include a legislative update on bills that could affect manufacturers.

4.  Superintendent Paul Kadri said residents will soon see a flurry of activity at Fitch High School as it prepares for a New England Collegiate Baseball League team coming to Groton. Four students chose the name “Mystic Schooners” for the team, and will be given recognition that could include lifetime passes to the games.

5.  Students at Fitch High School will have a new schedule next year that has classes meet every other day, and has students attend fewer, longer classes each day. Assistant Principal Peter Bass said students would attend four classes each day under the new schedule. Most classes would be 80 minutes long.