5 Things You Need to Know: Tuesday, March 29

1. Today will be sunny, with a high near 47, falling to 27 tonight, according to the National Weather Service. The gusty wind falls within the range for perfect kite-flying weather, which experts say is 5-15 mph. Wear a hat.

2. Distinguished High School English teacher Nicholas V. Gettis has announced his retirement, effective July 1. Mr. Gettis began his teaching career in September 1, 1981.

3. The Board of Education meeting begins at 8 p.m. tonight at the Satz School. The purpose of the meeting is: to take action on personnel and other matters, and adoption of the 2011/2012 school budget. Preceding the meeting the board will meet in closed session to discuss matters involving personnel and litigation. The agenda is here. 

4. Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank is basking in the good news today. The founders of the Two River Theater Company, Bob and Joan Rechnitz, gave the hospital $5 million, which will be used towards a surgical center. 

5. Holmdel also got a gift recently! A descendant of Dr. Robert Cooke, whose medical office the Historical Society has worked to preserve, sent a $1,000 check to the Holmdel Historical Society. Bruce Mitchell is the great-great grandson of Dr. Robert Cooke who lived from 1797-1867. The money is to be used to pay for a plaque commemorating its listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Our story is here.