Five Things To Know Today, Oct. 14

1.  Today is Friday, Oct. 14.  The National Weather Service predicts rain, with a possible thunderstorm and a high temperature of 69 degrees.  Tonight will be cloudy with a low of 56.

2.  Submarine Base New London was honored this month as one of two groups to receive the 2011 Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Community Service award. Members of the Groton sub base volunteered in schools, served meals at soup kitchens and helped clean trails including those at Fort Griswold and Bluff Point, according to a Navy press release.

3.  The newly-appointed Connecticut Technical High School Task Force holds its next meeting at 10 a.m. on Oct. 17 at Eli Whitney Technical High School in Hamden. The task force is studying ways to improve existing schools, including Ella T. Grasso Southeastern Technical High School in Groton, and develop stronger relationships between the schools and local colleges. The group is also looking at whether a regional board or the various local school boards should oversee the technical schools. A final report is due Jan. 15, 2012.

4.  If you need transportation, the Groton Senior Center is offering a free workshop from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Nov. 2 on the public transit system. The event will include information about planning a trip, qualifying for reduced fares and learning about accommodations for people with disabilities.

5.  West Side Middle School Parent Teacher Organization is holding a fundraiser spaghetti dinner from 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 18. The cost is small; $5 for a family of four, or $3 per person.