5 Things You Need To Know Today

Welcome to "5 Things You Need to Know Today," a new Patch column where we give the readers essential information at a glance. Check back later for more, and let us know what you think of the new feature in the comments.

1.       Before each regularly scheduled Board of Selectmen's meeting, one of the selectmen holds Selectmen Office Hours for one hour when residents can discuss issues about the town – from potholes to taxes and everything in between. Today, Selectman Mark Paolillo will hold Office Hours from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the second floor of Town Hall, 455 Conocord Ave.

2.      Belmont Serves is next Monday, a day for every resident to give back to the community. The second annual event is being co-sponsored this year by both the Board of Selectmen and the Belmont School Department. Today is a great time to join your neighbors in helping your neighbors. On-line sign-up and additional information can be found at the website:  www.belmontserves.org

3.      State Rep. Will Brownsburger will be holding office hours today from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Belmont Public Library, 336 Concord Ave.

4.      The Massachusetts Audubon Society will be seeking a special permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals to allow The Habitat, its educational and wildlife sanctuary on Juniper Street to keep livestock in a residential zoned area in order to graze sheep and goats on the Weeks Meadow between Concord Avenue and Somerset Street and two other nearby areas.  Come hear the debate at 7 p.m. in the Gallery of Art in the Homer Building in the Town Hall complex, 19 Moore St.

5.      Starting today, Dawn Evans Scaltreto is returning to the Beech Street Center to teach Realistic Drawing and Painting course. Each class will start with a 20 minute drawing class, and will continue with an opportunity for students to work on individual projects in the medium of their choice – watercolor, acrylic, oils or graphic media. Classes will consist of demonstrations, custom hand-outs with paint-along projects, and individual advice and assistance on your paintings. Recommended supply list available, or bring what you have – even if it is only your imagination – to the first class. Cost is $40 for eight sessions. Please visit the reception desk at the Center,  266 Beech St., or call 617-993-2970 to sign up.