Five Things You Need to Know Today: April 20

1. From Russia with Arts and Culture. The Newton Heritage Festivals continue this weekend with a Russian arts and culture festival at the Newton Cultural Center. Today's events will take place from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. will include discussions, art demonstrations, a book signing, Russian tea and more. 

2. Electronics recycling. The Newton Resource and Recovery Center on Rumford Avenue hosts special Friday/Saturday drop-offs for electronics once per month. Today you can drop off electronics from 8 a.m. - noon. A full list of acceptable materials is available online. There will be a $12 charge to recycle each TV or computer monitor, and all other appliances and electronics accepted free-of-charge. Check or cash accepted, made payable to "CRT Recycling."

3. Post Blues Jam. Blues musicians will gather at the American Legion Post 440 members lounge this afternoon to jam. If you like to play or just listen, stop by. Admission is free. The event starts at 4 p.m. 

4. Solar open house. In honor of Earth Day, local solar integrator RevoluSun, along with homeowners who have converted to solar energy, invites the public to attend a solar open house today from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. at 27 Placid Road. 

5. Hemlock Gorge and Charles River Cleanup. Both the Friends of Hemlock Gorge and the Charles River Watershed Association will hold their spring cleanups today. If you're interested, check out this article for more information.