5 Things You Need To Know Today: March 22

It is Thursday, March 22, and here are 5 things you need to know:

1. Some good news to start the day - For the second time in less than a week, National Grid is proposing to lower energy costs for its MA customers. The company has proposed lowering residential electricity rates, reducing the monthly bill by 10.4 percent starting May 1. Last week the company filed a request for a net 13 percent reduction in natural gas rates, which also will take effect on May 1. The company is passing on the lower costs it pays for electricity purchased to its customers. As a result, electric commodity rates will decline by 18.7 percent. The cost of electricity makes up approximately 50 percent of a residential customer’s bill.

2. Steampunk lover? The Salem Athenaeum is hosting an event named "Clockwork and Cocktails: A Steampunk Affair." The event is $60 and "experts in steampunkery" wil be there. RSVP is required in advance.

3. Some interesting news this morning after Patch did their first economic survey of small businesses.

4. Looking to hear some music this weekend?

5. Did you see the heart warming We are proud to have our local hero home.

For more events today, look at the events planner.