5 Things You Need to Know Today: May 3

Our weekday morning column, 5 Things You Need to Know, provides you with information that can help you plan your day and give you some fodder for water cooler conversations.

1. While the crazy weather this winter and spring hasn't been so good for figuring out what coat to wear when you leave the house, ticks are loving it. Tick sightings are on the rise, as unseasonably warm weather has more of us outside and is causing ticks to get active. See what to look for and how to avoid those nasty little bugs that can carry diseases like Lyme Disease.

2. It's just under two weeks before the annual town election in Grafton, so take some time to learn more about

and Selectman candidate Brook Padgett Find out what boards he has served on and what he thinks about the library project after the failed vote.

3. With the unseasonably nice weather, motorcyclists will be out in full force enjoying their rides. The police chief warns of safety on the roads for both motorcyclists and other drivers. Be careful out there.

4. Today might be the perfect day to get a new carpet since it's Lumpy Rug Day. It's a day to honor those carpets that have gone through heavy traffic, but will probably need fixing and replacing. And while we may remember those days of shag rugs, carpets have come a long with more healthy options, especially for people with allergies. And don't forget, you can always replace carpet with hardwoods or tile—you may be surprised what's under your lumpy rug.

5. If you love games, the is holding Cribbage at 1 p.m. and Pitch at 6:30 p.m., 30 Providence Rd.