5 Things You Need to Know Today: Dec. 9

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. It's Christmas Card Day, which honors Sir Henry Cole of England who created the first commercial Christmas card. Today is a great day to send out your holiday cards if you haven't done it already. See the for the holidays.

2. Like our Facebook page and stay on top of the latest news and events in Shrewsbury. You can also follow us on Twitter.

3. Finish some holiday shopping today and support the . Come to Jenny Boston at 45E Main St., Westborough at 7 p.m. and get 30 to 60 percent off retail prices.

4. The Shrewsbury schools could win $100,000 if you submit holiday decoration photos. and enter our contest to win. Spread the word.

5. Become a user by signing up on our homepage and you can review businesses, blog on our site and comment on our stories. We want to hear from you. All you need is an email address and you can join our community.