5 Things You Need To Know Today April 7

1. Expect delays today on Waverley Street (Route 135), as the Town of Framingham will re-surface the road in anticipation of the running of the 118th Boston Marathon in two weeks. 

2. The Framingham Public Works Highway Division will begin its town-wide street sweeping program starting today, April 7. All roads will be posted at least 24 hours or more in advance prior to the sweepers entering the neighborhoods. For additional information, click here.

3. Massachusetts Gov. Deval L. Patrick has ordered the U.S. flag and the Commonwealth flag be lowered to half-staff at all state buildings from sunrise until sunset on Tuesday, April 8, in honor of Officer Gregg Maloney, 43, of the Plymouth Police Department who died in the line of duty on Tuesday, April 1.

4. McAuliffe branch library will host Sparky's Puppets today at 10 a.m. The hour-long program is for children ages 2 to 5. Pre-registration is required. Sparky and her puppets will introduce children to Mother Goose, Little Red Riding Hood and other favorites. 

5. Colonel Timothy P. Alben and the Massachusetts State Police announced Sunday morning the release of a brand new smartphone application for residents to stay up-to-date with real-time alerts as situations arise. Click here for more information.