5 Things You Need to Know Today, April 16

Today is Monday, April 16. Here are five things to know today in Peabody.

1. Today's weather: Mostly cloudy with a high near 83 degrees. The Peabody area is also under a Fire Weather Watch, effective this afternoon through the evening, as conditions are favorable to the rapid spread of fire. The National Weather Services says southwesterly winds with gusts around 25 mph are possible today ahead of a strong storm system passing through today and tomorrow. The southwesterly flow will also usher in warmer and drier conditions across the region, pending any eventual rainfall, says the NWS. The strongest wind gusts and lowest humidities are expected midday. Again, outdoor burning is not recommended.
2. Patriots Day in Peabody: In honor of those Peabody (South Danvers) men who died April 19, 1775, and the many others who became the first American patriots during the Revolutionary War, the city and are holding the this morning at the Lexington Monument on Washington Street. The ceremony begins at 10 a.m. and the public is welcome to attend.
3. Running Boston: A dozen Peabody residents are registered to run the world's oldest marathon today. Stay tuned for more information on the race this morning and how you can keep up with the runners. As a historical note, the first official marathon was held at the 1896 Olympics and the first Boston Marathon was held in 1897.
4. Best French fries: This week's "Best of Patch Readers' Choice" poll looks at French fries -- ?
5. Mayor Ted Bettencourt says he is prepared to bring a target number with him to the next school budget session, which is planned for this Tuesday, 6 p.m. at the . The budget proposed by Interim Superintendent Herb Levine .