Five Things To Know Today, Sept. 23

1.  Today is Friday, Sept. 23.  The National Weather Service forecasts showers, a high temperature of 70 degrees and a low of 65 tonight. Rain could be heavy this evening.

2.  Seven Disaster Recovery Centers in Connecticut, including the one in Groton, will be changed Monday into Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Outreach Centers, the governor's office said. Through the program homeowners may obtain small business loans of up to $200,000 to fix or replace damaged real estate, and businesses and non-profits may borrow up to $2 million to replace real estate, equipment or other lost items. Three other recovery centers in the state will close because of low volume, and a fourth will be moved, the governor's office said.

3.  The Builders Association of Eastern Connecticut is gathering volunteers to remodel the bathroom for the home of a Vietnam War veteran on disability in Groton. The veteran has injuries to both legs.  Volunteers will work starting at 8 a.m. on Saturday at 120 Walker Hill Road. If you can help, call the builders association at (860) 859-3518.

4.  John Padgett, a retired Rear admiral, will speak at lunch today at the United States Submarine Veterans Groton base on School Street. Padgett, who is expected to talk about the country's need for submarines, worked for Electric Boat from 2003 until 2010.

5.  The Groton Parent Council hopes to expand its membership this year. The group typically meets from 5:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month. Its next meeting is on Oct. 11 at Pleasant Valley Elementary School.