A Conversation That Hits Close to Home -- Join It

Today is Friday, Aug. 19. Here are five things you need to know.

1. The last couple of days there has been a lot of strong conversation on Patch on an issue that hits close to home for a lot of people in Charlestown -- addiction and recovery. I'd like to encourage you, if you haven't already, to take a look at this week and the many comments it has received. Take a moment to contribute your own.

2. Speaking of columns, Karen Fabian had a great one this week -- . We could all use some of these.

3. What's happening this morning at the Monument? . From 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., local moms and kids are invited to a stroller fitness class. You can find more details here. And to get in touch with the instructor, call 617-959-4916 or email jen.mcardle@babybootcamp.com.

4. And what's happening this weekend at City Hall Plaza? Boston's Greenfest. The event actually starts tonight at 5:30 p.m. with a concert hosted by environmentalist Bill McKibben. And on Friday and Saturday, there will be exhibitors, organizations, workshops and forums on sustainable living in the city. For details and a schedule, visit, www.bostongreenfest.org.

5. A chance of showers and thunderstorms today, mostly after 1 p.m. Otherwise sunny, with a high near 89.

For more info on what's happening around the neighborhood, visit our events calendar.