Five Things You Need to Know Today, Jan. 25

Today is Tuesday, January 25. Here are five things you need to know:

1. Get your shovels ready: Forecasts are calling for slightly warmer temps (we’re talking 30 degrees by 1 p.m.) coupled with snow showers throughout the afternoon. No word on any major accumulation but we’ll keep you posted, as always.

2. Author Doug Bauer will be reading one of his personal essays from an upcoming book tonight at the . Bauer, a South End resident and well-known author of Dexterity, The Very Air and The Book of Famous Iowan, will be kicking off “The South End Writes” Series with tonight's talk. The free program starts at 6:30 p.m. and includes refreshments.

3. Craving Chili? It’s your last chance to buy tickets for tonight’s . Hosted by the Four Seasons Hotel, the event pits firefighters from all over Boston against each other in a massive chili competition. The best part? You get to be the judge, and the proceeds from each $95 ticket go to the Greater Boston Food Bank.

4. It's not that hard to be a veggie, according to Evelyn Kimber, president of the Boston Vegetarian Society. Read more about the volunteer-run nonprofit organization here, and consider attending one of their delicious dinners or vegan cooking classes.

5. Explore the healing power of music with the Boston Cares program, which is offering a free screening of the documentary For Once In My Life at the Year Up building (287 Columbus Ave) tonight at 6 p.m. The movie follows the Spirit of Goodwill Band, featuring 28 musicians and singers, all with a wide range of severe mental and physical disabilities. Showing talent, humor and tenacity, it's an eye-opening look at the potential of people with disabilties and the power of music.

For more things to do in the South End visit our Events Listings.