5 Things You Need To Know Today: March 12

1. Today marks the start of week three in the Readers Choice: Best of Marlborough. Vote on the best place to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, and let us know if we've missed any local businesses. 

2. Today could reach 70 degrees with sunny skies, says the National Weather Service. A sure sign that spring and summer are on their way. 

3. , a full-service auctioneer and appraiser of antiques and fine art located in Marlborough, recently announced Judith Dowling as the Director of Asian Works of Art. Dowling brings more than 20 years experience as an expert in Asian art to her new role at Skinner and has established herself as a premiere appraiser in the genre, said a release. Dowling will be responsible for continuing the growth of the Skinner Asian Works of Art department, which expanded from two to three sales in 2011. In addition, Dowling will also be charged with the development of the Asian-Marlborough auctions, which will offer selections of 20th century furniture and decorative arts inspired by works of previous dynasties.

4. Reader’s Digest wants to know what makes Marlborough the Most Interesting Town in America. From now until May 31, locals are invited to log on and share personal stories and images that illustrate what makes their town special. The author of the winning story will receive a cash prize of $1,000 and their town will be featured on the cover of an upcoming issue of Reader’s Digest magazine, said a release.

5. The Business Professionals of America (BPA) students are seeking sponsors to help them take their competition skills to the national level. Twenty-five BPA students attended the recent State Leadership Conference, where they walked away with 17 awards. Competition areas included accounting; economic research; administrative support research; financial math and analysis; management, marketing and human resources; global marketing; and presentation management. Sixteen of these students are now eligible to compete at the National Leadership Conference in Chicago, Ill., in late April, but they need some assistance, said a release from the District. The annual cost per student to compete is about $235, and it costs more than $800 per student to bring the competition to the national level. The MHS BPA is seeking sponsorships and donations to help offset individual student costs. To offer your support, contact BPA Advisor Jayne Haley at (508) 460-3500, ext. 7690, or email.

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