5 Things You Need to Know Today: May 14

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. The trial of former Milford Water Company manager Henry Papuga began Monday in Worcester Superior Court. Testimony concluded with Milford Police Chief Thomas O'Loughlin, who answered questions about the distribution of water following the boil water order in 2009. Papuga is charged with eight counts relating to intentionally tampering with drinking water samples. Testimony continues Tuesday.

2. Water flushing of hydrants is continuing in Milford, but only one crew is doing the work this week, to maintain water supplies in the Highland Tank, according to an email Monday from Milford Water Company Manager David Condrey.

3. A plaque honoring the Porter Shoe Company will be installed at the Milford Senior Center at noon Tuesday, along with a dedication by historian Jack Porter. The shoe company was located on the current site of the Milford Senior Center.

4. Smart911, which recently started a partnership with the Milford fire-police dispatch, has since expanded into Framingham. The company provides a free service in which people can share information that may be helpful to first responders. View information about how to sign up here.

5. If you forgot to take in your potted herbs, or cover the tender little tomato plants overnight, you may be disheartened this morning to see frost out there. The morning frost was still in the forecast for Milford as of 9 p.m. Monday. The good news? Today will warm up to a high of 61, and then it will be 70s through the week.