Five Things You Need to Know Today: Jan. 19

1. Artist Exposure, a fine art studio gallery on Howland Street, Plymouth, MA., will feature the work of artist Joanna Ruggiero in a show entitled "IMPACT."  Joanna's powerful works are intended to make us re-think our relationship with the Earth and its creatures. The show raises consciousness and awareness of humans' connection and interaction with nature. The show opens today at 1 p.m.

2. The flu is taking a toll across Massachusetts, here's a list of places in Plymouth whereyou can get a flu shot. Here's a link to a blog about Natural Ways to Prevent or Shorten the Length of the Flu.

3. The Martin Luther King Prayer Breakfast will be held at 8 a.m. Mon. Jan. 21 at Plymouth South High School. The theme of the event is the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the "I have a dream speech" given in Washington DC by Rev. King in 1963. The featured speaker is Cary Barnes, a former Plymothian and an actor in New York City, who performs that speech as well as others by MLK. The event is sponsored by the Plymouth Area Clergy Council, the Plymouth Public Schools and the Plymouth No Place For Hate Committee. Tickets are $8 available from churches and the NPFH committee and at the door.

4. The Arc of Greater Plymouth’s Employment Committee has again joined forces with The Cleanist to collect, clean and deliver warm coats to those in need. The coats are distributed through the Plymouth Area Coalition for the Homeless. This year, the goal is to add a scarf and mittens or a hat with each donated coat. If you have a nice gently used coat to donate, drop it off at The Arc office at 10 Cordage Park Circle, Suite #208. Donations of new mittens, hats and scarves will also be accepted.

5. Do you have an opinion or a passion you'd like to share? Learn how you can blog on Patch.