5 Things: Medford Bus Lines Cut, Police Station Review, Donato Honored

Good morning, here are five things to know today:

About a half dozen architects toured Medford Police Headquarters Tuesday, after the city put out a request seeking qualified firms for a facilities evaluation. The city council's subcommittee on public safety met with Tuesday with Police Chief Leo Sacco intending to discuss possible alternative locations for the police department, but ending up deciding to wait until they hear more from design firms first.

After all of the talk, public hearings, and protests over the past three months, the MBTA Board voted Wednesday afternoon to boost fares 23 percent and cut back service in an attempt to close a projected $161 million deficit in the next fiscal year. Board members approved a plan in a 4-1 vote that would raise most subway fares by 30 cents, bus fares by 25 cents, and commuter rail fares by at least $1.25. The plan also calls to eliminate two bus routes that serve Medford: The 355, and the 710. The 710 route -- operated by Joseph's Transportation -- includes North Medford, Lawrence Memorial Hospital, and Wellington Station. The 355 is an express bus that runs from Woburn to Boston with a stop in Medford Square.

During their annual State House Advocacy Day Wednesday, the Children's League of Massachusetts presented Senator Karen Spilka and Representative Paul Donato with their 2012 Children's Choice Award for their dedicated commitment to working on behalf of children in the Commonwealth. Spilka and Donato are being recognized for their dedication and hard work over the past seven years to reform the Children in Need of Services system.

4. Weather: Clear skies and comfortable temperatures are expected to continue today, with a projected high of 55 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. 

5. Community Read Tackles Slavery: Medford Public Library's community read program, which will run through May, focuses on slavery this year. The series includes a documentary screening and guest speakers.