5 Things Oct. 16: Civil War Presentation, Meadow Muffins and More

Five Things You Need to Know Today is a Patch column that provides readers with essential, daily information at a glance. Check back later for more, and let us know what you think of the feature in the comments section.

1. William Mason and the Civil War presentation
Norton Historical Society will host William Mason and the Civil War to be presented by Dr. William Hanna at 7 p.m. The program will look not only at Mason's contribution to the war effort, but also examine how the vagaries of Civil War politics almost ruined the industrialist.

2. Purchase your Meadow Muffin deeds
In preparation of the JCS Fall Festival, Meadow Muffin deeds are available for sale. On Sunday, Oct. 21, Bessie, a real cow, will do her thing in the JCS meadow, which will be divided into squares. Participants buy a “deeded” square and the cow determines which square is the winner by fertilizing it naturally...with a meadow muffin. Winners need not be present to win, so anyone can be a deed owner and take a chance at winning. First, second and third “legal sized muffins” will win cash prizes. If the cow leaves no muffins, then first, second and third place prizes will be determined by a raffle drawing. Prize money will be determined by the total number of deeds sold. Cost is $5 per deed, or 12 deeds for $50. For more information visit the Bidding for Good website.

3. Day of Healing for breast cancer patients and survivors
One way Signature Healthcare will recognize Breast Cancer Awareness is through a Day of Healing. Signature Healthcare's Radiation Therapy Department will sponsor a full day of relaxation and educational workshops to ten area women who are in treatment for breast cancer or are breast cancer survivors.

4. Free infant massage registration deadline
Today is the last day to register for Sturdy Memorial Hospital’s free infant massage program to take place Saturday, Oct. 20, 10 a.m. to noon in the hospital auditorium. This program is designed for new moms and their partners and will be led by Jean Stringham, Sturdy Memorial’s infant massage coordinator. It will focus on the techniques and benefits of massage for infants.  Tips on how to soothe and calm a colicky baby will also be provided. Parents are encouraged to bring their infants, age two weeks to ten months old. Class size is limited. For more information or to register call 508-236-7151.

5. High near 74, low around 52
Today there is a 30 percent chance of showers, mainly after 4 p.m. It will be cloudy, with a high near 74. South wind will be around 11 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible. Tonight there is an 80 percent chance of showers and a thunderstorm before midnight. There will be a low around 52. South wind will be 5 to 7 mph becoming light and variable. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.