"Five Things You Need to Know Today" is a Patch column that provides readers with essential, daily information at a glance.

1.   Isolated thunderstorms are forecast for the Concord area today. Temperatures will see a high of 78 and a low of 62.

2.   The Lexington Historical Society invites Concord residents to see what’s new at its museums. Find more information at this link.

3.   The Exhibit of Russian Impressionist Painters continues at 1977 Mass. Ave. in Cambridge today between 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m.

4.   With Independence Day approaching, it’s important to remember the troops who helped secure America’s freedoms. Barrett & Company is collecting items for the troops at 33 Walden St.

5.   On this day in 1863, the Battle of Gettysburg begins in Pennsylvania. The battle would become the largest military conflict in North American history.