Five Things: National Picnic Month at Brix

1. Sunny skies today with highs in the lower 80s. West winds 10 to 15 mph.

2. Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray designated August as Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB) Awareness Month yesterday, reminding all residents to remain vigilant in spotting ALB and reporting possible sightings.

“I have seen first-hand the impact of the Asian Longhorned Beetle Infestation in my hometown of Worcester," Murray said. "I understand the need to protect all Massachusetts communities from the spread of this invasive insect."

3. August is also National Picnic Month and is celebrating tonight from 5 - 7 p.m. with a free tasting of summertime wines including Charles and Charles Rose and Ken Forrester Chenin Blanc.

4. The 10th anniversary of September 11th is also upon us very soon. I know many families in the South End were affected by 9/11 and the wars that have followed. Patch is looking for people from the community who would like to reflect on how the tragic event has changed their lives. If you'd like more details, send me an email: alix@patch.com.

5. A committee formed by the Mayor to examine development proposals for air-rights parcels above the Mass Pike met for the first time on Wednesday. Check back for the full story later this morning.