5 Things April 14: Charity Softball Game, Art Show and More

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1. Best Buds charity softball game

Wheaton College will host the second annual Best Buds charity softball game at 3:30 p.m. It will feature faculty and staff versus Best Buds and their Wheaton buddies. Come cheer on your favorite team while enjoying balloon animals, face paint, BBQ and other goodies. T-shirts will be on sale for $10. Sign the Spread the Word to End the Word banner and pledge to eliminate the use of the R-word. All proceeds benefit the ARC of Northern Bristol County. Sponsored by Best Buds & SSSR.

2. Youth art show

EPOCH Assisted Living of Norton will host a youth art show and reception at 2 p.m. Local youth are invited to attend the creative art program at 1:30 p.m. to create their own unique piece of art. For more information call 508-285-3355.

3. Free reading of "The Van Meder Trust"

Join The All Stories Theater Company for a free reading of "The Van Meder Trust"  - a new play telling the story of a 13-year-old girl still feeling the effects of a tumultuous childhood and the two aunts- one Black, one white South African- who try to steer her through a time of crises. The reading will take place 3 to 5 p.m. at 40 Balcom St., Mansfield. There will be an intermission. Light refreshments will be served. No ticket or reservation needed. Suitable for ages 13 and older. The audience will be invited to take part in a post-show feedback survey.

4. National Pest Management Month

April is National Pest Management Month, according to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA).  The Better Business Bureau and NPMA recommend the following tips for finding a qualified pest management professional:

• Always check out the business’ BBB Business Review at bbb.org first and visit Pestworld.org to find a local professional. Ask friends and neighbors to recommend pest control companies they have used successfully and ask how satisfied they were with the service.

• Always deal with a qualified and licensed pest management company. Ask to see the license or other credentials.

• Get bids from several pest management companies.

• Before signing a contract, be sure to fully understand the nature of the household pest to be exterminated, the extent of the infestation and the work necessary to solve the problem.

Beware of companies that offer bargains that sound too good to be true. Be wary of companies that come to your home uninvited and offer to give your house a free inspection for pests or press you for immediate and/or costly treatments.

For more home improvement tips visit bbb.org.

5. High near 56, low around 33

Today will be sunny, with a high near 56. Northwest wind will be 10 to 15 mph. Tonight will be mostly clear, with a low around 33.