Five Things You Need to Know Today: Sept. 7, 2012

On this day in history: Brazil declared its independence from Portugal (1822), the Football Hall of Fame was dedicated in Canton, Ohio (1963), paperwork transferring ownership of the Panama Canal from the U.S. to Panama was signed (1977), ESPN debuted (1979), Tupac Shakur was shot and later died (1996) and Mark McGwire tied Roger Maris at 61 home runs (1998).

1.The performs monthly upkeep and training on its equipment at at 10 a.m. today.

2. There is a new craft series at that is going on tonight from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Logan Auditorium:

"Our new Monday Night Craft Series for Adults and Teens kicks off with a program all about making creative stationary. Participants will learn simple ways to to create artwork out of ordinary envelopes and paper. Registration is required. Please register online or by visiting the library's Reference Department."

3. boys varsity soccer plays at Milton at 3:45 p.m. For more BHS athletics, go to http://www.usatodayhss.com/school/braintree-high-school-braintree-ma.

4. There is an early chance of rain and thunderstorms today, clearing in the afternoon, according to the National Weather Service. Chance of wet weather continues throughout the weekend.

5. Activities today at the Senior Center on Cleveland Avenue include:

9:15 Exercise

10 a.m. Weight Loss Support

11 a.m. Tai Chi Class and Library Bound (please call for van ride)

Noon Pool Players

1 p.m. Women’s Poker