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. The Olympic Summer Games opening ceremonies will be held in London today. We've compiled a list of athletes who live in Patch towns. Check it out so you'll know to root for them!

2. We at Patch have compiled a list of summer reading recommendations; our suggestions are based on books we've read ourselves. Please add your recommendations to our list.

3. James and the McCarthy's perform at 7 tonight at The Coffee Loft.

4. A huge yard sale to benefit Mothers & More of Assabet Valley will be held tomorrow at 202 Williams St. It starts at 8 a.m.

5. Youth For Understanding USA (YFU), a nonprofit educational organization, seeks volunteers and host families to mentor and host high school exchange students coming to the community. For more information, see this announcement.