Boston Marathon Runners Get Second Chance

5 Things You Need to Know Today:

1. Burlington to Boston. Organizers of Key Bank's Vermont City Marathon are offering 150 free race entries to runners of the Boston Marathon who were unable to finish the 26.2 mile jaunt to from Hopkinton to Copley Square after two bombs were detonated at the finish line on Monday, April 15. “Our entire community comes together race weekend to create an atmosphere of celebration,” said Key Bank Vermont City Marathon race director Peter Delaney. “We’re opening our doors to anyone who was unable to finish Boston, so that they can realize the results of their training and continue the healing process.” The race will draw 8,000 runners, another 1,700 volunteers and approximately 30,000 spectators, making it New England's second largest marathon behind the world famous Boston Marathon. Get more details here about how to register for one of the free race bibs for the Memorial Day weekend marathon. 

2. Slowly but surely. The state of America's economy got a bit brighter after a 2.5 percent growth rate in the first quarter. It was less than expected,  and is expected to slow in the coming months.

3. Patch Fact: The Royal National Theatre is a government-supported theater in London. The theater presents classics of world drama as well as modern works and premieres of new plays.

4. Captain Obvious here. A new study has shown that drinking  can of soda each day increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes. In other news, the sky is blue.

5. Weather Report: Today will be partly cloudy with a high of 69 degrees. Tonight is looking mostly cloudy with a low of 46 degrees. Expect more of the same tomorrow.