5 Things: Canal Talk, Toddler Story Time

1. Rainy: Expect rain today, mainly after 10 a.m. and again in the evening, according to the National Weather Service. High: 55, Low: 39.

2. Reading readiness: The Charlestown Branch of the Boston Public Library offers a “reading readiness” story time and craft on most Tuesdays from 11-11:30 a.m. for children ages 2-3 accompanied by an adult. Today’s theme is “B Is For Bear.” The program is free, with no registration required.

3. History talk: The Charlestown Historical Society will host a lecture on the Middlesex Canal today from 7-8 p.m. at the Bunker Hill Museum. Watch a film on the history of the canal and participate in a Q&A with a noted canal historian. This event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.

4. Zoning hearings: The Boston Zoning Board of Appeal will hold public hearings today on two Charlestown proposals—a request to convert 34-42 Warren St. from a garage and vehicle storage to nine residential units, offices, retail and parking garage and a request to change the legal occupancy of 275 Main St. from a real estate office and one apartment to two apartments. Both hearings are scheduled for 9:30 a.m. in Boston City Hall's Room 801.

5. Become a police officer: The civil service exam for police officers and state troopers is being offered on April 20 at various locations around the state. The cost is $100 per person, and the deadline to apply is March 18. Learn more and download an application at mass.gov/civilservice. 

Got a Charlestown event coming up? Make sure it's on our calendar and send the link to becca.manning@patch.com to be featured in one of our morning "5 Things You Should Know."