5 Things You Should Know Today - April 17, 2012

It's the last day to file your federal and state income tax returns – but look on the bright side:

1. The weather

The rain appears to have cleared out today. The National Weather Service predicts sunshine, a high around 54 and wind gusts to 20 miles per hour. Tonight's low will dip to around 37, with winds becoming calm. 

2. Farmington Hills Zoning Board of Appeals

The ZBA will hear requests from homeowners on Ontaga and Playview Court for variances to accommodate additions, from Amerisure Mutual Insurance Company on Halsted for a temporary sign variance, and from on Grand River to allow temporary sales of fireworks June 25 through July 4. The board meets at 7:30 pm. at ; a full agenda is on the city's website. 

3.

Warren L. Brandes, D.O., of , will present a free community lecture at 6:30 p.m. today on breakthrough technology that helps those suffering from chronic sinus symptoms. For more information or to register, call 877-477-Doc1 (3621) and select option 1.

4. Look ahead:

Give the gift of life at FHS Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. This year 16-year-olds are allowed to donate if they meet the health and weight requirements, plus have a Red Cross Consent form completed by a legal guardian. For information, call 248-426-2813 or visit ­redcro­ssblood.­org.

5. Look ahead:

Stop by the Maxfield Training Center on Thomas St. Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., for this sale of desks (teachers/office type), file cabinets (all types), metal storage cabinets, chairs (regular and folding), tables (computer tables, folding tables and other tables), pianos, TV/VCR combos and other miscellaneous equipment. All items are sold as is, cash and carry.