Five Things You Need to Know Today: Aug. 17

SONG OF THE DAY: David Gray – "Alibi"

1. TODAY'S FORECAST: Isolated thunderstorms and a high of 88 are in the forecast by day, while that will dip to an overnight low of 62 and scattered thunderstorms.

2. READERS' CHOICE POLLS CLOSE TODAY: This is your final day to vote in our summer Readers' Choice polls. Choose businesses and locations in our 19 categories

3. ARRIVE EARLY AND VIA CARPOOL TO OBAMA IN WINDHAM: If you have acquired a ticket and plan on attending the appearance of President Barack Obama at Windham High School, plan on arriving early. We reported yesterday that security checks of every incoming car will last 30 seconds, which will likely back traffic up. Event organizers are highly recommending carpooling to the event as well.

4. THIS DAY IN HISTORY: On August 17, 1933, New York Yankees first baseman Lou Gehrig plays in his 1,308th consecutive game, breaking former Yankee Everett Scott’s record for consecutive games played. Gehrig would go on to play in 2,130 games in a row, setting a record that would stand for over half a century.

5. NINE PITCHES, NINE STRIKES: It's only fair to feature a Red Sox item after a Yankees item. Red Sox pitcher Clay Buchholz gave frustrated fans a distraction on Thursday when he pitched a gem in Baltimore to secure a victory. In the sixth inning, Buchholz completed the rare feat of striking out the side on nine pitches, also known as an "immaculate inning." It was the first time this has been accomplished in Major League Baseball in 2012. Watch his marvelous inning here.