5 Things You Need to Know Today: June 12

Our weekday morning column, 5 Things You Need to Know, provides you with information that can help you plan your day and give you some fodder for water cooler conversations.

1. A new bar has opened at 31 Central St. The Central Tavern opened on Friday, taking the place of the former Nite Lite Lounge. The new bar has had some interior renovations, and is operated by Paul Iacovelli, who runs Kapi's Pub on North Main Street in Uxbridge, and Alfred Pighetti, a Milford firefighter. 

2. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission will meet Thursday. The agenda includes the introduction of Mark Vander Linden, the new director of research and problem gambling. The commission also is expected to consider the final plan for the Phase 2 resort casino application, which would then be released to gaming applicants.

3. The "Dig into Reading" summer reading program is getting ready to begin at the Milford Town Library. Register online at www.ReadsinMa.org  or in person in the Children's or YA Room June 17.

4. The Massachusetts Special Olympics, Milford Lusitanos FC soccer club and Groton House FC soccer club are teaming up Saturday at Milford High School to raise funds for the Milford Special Olympics. The charity soccer match begins at 6:30 p.m. and costs just $5.

5. Save the date: the Milford Play Initiative is hosting a planning meeting and a fundraiser at Prezo Bar and Grille on June 25. The nonprofit organization is working to build a children's play area, with separate areas for toddlers and older children, at Fino Field.