5 Things Jan. 12: Musical Entertainment, Flu Safety Tips and More

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1. Timmy Brown and Josh Gerrish performance
Norton's favorite sons will perform back to back shows at McMahon’s Countryside Grille. Timmy Brown will take the stage at 6:30 p.m. and entertain through dinner. Then Josh Gerrish takes over at 9 p.m. and will perform country hits as well as original music. Reservations accepted for parties of six or more

2. Shoe collection
Nine Lives is collecting gently used shoes. This fundraiser will benefit the shelter.

3. Hot Stove, Cool Music Boston Benefit Concert
Tickets are on sale now for Hot Stove, Cool Music at Paradise Rock Club, 967 Commonwealth Ave., Boston featuring Tanya Donelly, Parkington Sisters, Christian McNeill & Sea Monsters, Peter Gammons, Buffalo Tom’s Bill Janovitz and indie rocker Kay Hanley with actor and comedian Mike O’Malley serving as the evening’s emcee. General admission tickets are $40. Both general admission and VIP tickets can be purchased through musictoday or at the foundation’s website. Doors open 6 p.m.

4. Tips for avoiding the flu
Health officials are reporting widespread influenza outbreaks in 47 of 50 states, up from just a week ago. One age group hit particularly hard is children, and the American Red Cross has some steps parents can teach their kids to help them avoid getting sick. Parents should teach children proper hand washing techniques and how to correctly cover coughs or sneezes.

• Wash hands with soap and warm water.
• Wash hands at least 20 seconds, covering the entire hand including fingernails and under jewelry. Younger children can be taught to sing a short song like "Row, Row, Row Your Boat" a few times, which will ensure they wash for at least 20 seconds.
• Rinse and dry thoroughly with a disposable towel.
• Use the towel to turn off the faucet.

• Rub thoroughly over the entire hand, including nail areas and between the fingers.
• Continue to rub until the product dries.
• Get children six months of age or older a flu vaccine as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control. Children’s caregivers should also get vaccinated.
• Keep surfaces disinfected and keep a sick person in a separate room in the household if possible.