Today's 5: Kids Off; Perfect Weather

The kids are off today from school for Columbus Day and the weather is supposed to be nearly perfect. There's lots to do around town:

Each day the "5 Things" column will tell you five essential pieces of information you need to know today, like events happening or community topics being covered on the site later on in the day. Have an event or topic that should appear in this column? Add it to the calendar or send us a news tip.

1.It's Columbus Day. Schools are closed along with most, but not all, banks. There's no mail delivery. It's a perfect fall day to head to Bethpage State Park, one of the North Shore arboretum's or take the train to New York. See here.

2. is host to its "Second Act Seniors Group," meeting at noon. Today the group discusses and solves a variety of puzzles in the broad field of mathematics with special guest speaker, Dr. Mel Drossman. No formal math training is required. $6. Includes lunch.

3.The is hosting the Independent Art Society's demonstration called "Painting on Silk."  Guest artist is Vivien Pollack from the Art League of Long Island.  Free at 7 p.m.

4. You might want to clear your calendar for this upcoming event: The 's annual open house is Sunday, Oct. 16, beginning at noon at Station 1 on Old Country Road. There will be games and prizes for kids and safety demonstrations.

5. It's political season: Our blogger, Rafe Lieber, stirred up a lively discussion this weekend about the nature of our political system. Why not see what you can stir up by blogging for Plainview Patch? Do you have a great fall photo of your kids, or of you and your pet. Send them to us: Contact Joe Dowd at Joe.Dowd@patch.com.