Five Things to Know Today, Feb. 29

Welcome to Wednesday, leap day, and the last day of February. Here are some things to know today:

The weather: There's a 50 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms and an equal chance of just clouds, but the high will be about 74 degrees with some wind. The low tonight will be around 61, and there's a 60 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms throughout the night.

Gas prices: $3.62 is still the lowest price in Lilburn (at Murphy USA, 3950 Lawrenceville Hwy, near Lester Road) for a gallon of regular, according to reports to www.georgiagasprices.com. The highest was $3.69 (at Shell, 5474 Lawrenceville Hwy at Rockbridge Road).

1/4th the age. Leap year babies born on this day are also called “leaplings.” In some countries their legal birthday is considered March 1 or Feb. 28 in
non-leap years. It must be kind of confusing to keep track of, but on the other hand a special kind of status. The list of famous leaplings is not long, but it includes singer Dinah Shore, actor Dennis Farina and rapper Ja Rule. If you’re a leapling, do you celebrate Feb. 29 in any extra special way?

Awards. It was a leap day in 1940 when “Gone With The Wind” swept the Oscars, taking awards including Best Picture. But the most significant gold statuette handed out that night went to Hattie McDaniel for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of the housemaid Mammy. McDaniel was the first African American actress or actor ever to be honored with an Oscar.

Books. Read Across America, an annual festival of stories and books that marks the birthday of Dr. Seuss, is coming up March 2. But the Gwinnett public library branch in Snellville is holding its event today at 4 p.m. Library staff will be reading from their favorite stories, for children.