5 Things to Know Today: March 7

1. The Westborough Special Olympics is looking for high school students to assist with their swim program. Coaches will lead the practices and the high school volunteers will swim alongside the Special Olympics athletes. The program runs Sundays through June 5 at the from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. If interested, contact Karen Desiata at the in Town Hall or by calling 508-366-3066 or emailing KDesiata@town.westborough.ma.us.   

2. The is holding a book discussion group at 7 p.m. The topic is The Cellist of Sarajevo, by Steven Galloway. This is a free, public meeting. No registration is required. 

3. Today marks the start of National Sleep Awareness Week. The designation comes from the National Sleep Foundation, and the event takes place March 7 through 11. Americans are urged to think about their sleep habits and make necessary changes to increase good health, safety and productivity.

4. The Advisory Finance Committee meets at 7 p.m. in Town Hall. Budget discussions will continue as the committee prepares to make recommendations at May’s Town Meeting. This is a free, public meeting and all are welcome to attend. 

5. The Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development reports that the total unemployment rate in January held at 8.3 percent, the same as the revised December rate. This is below the national rate of 9.0 percent and .5 percent less than the January 2010 rate of 8.8 percent. State officials report an increase of 5,600 jobs in Massachusetts with the largest gain in professional, scientific and business services.