5 Things to Know Today, Wednesday, Aug. 15

Good morning, here are five things to know today:

A crackdown on subway freeloaders has resulted in more than 600 citations being issued since July 9. The Transit Police released numbers on Thursday for "Operation Fare Game." So far, 636 citations have been handed out. There are various ways to avoid paying your fare. One tactic is "piggybacking," or walking in right behind someone who did pay. Another is holding the sensor open for people behind you, as are prone to do.

State: Cradock Bridge Replacement to Cost $8.5M: Replacing the Cradock Bridge in Medford Square will cost about $8.5 million and take three construction seasons to complete, according to state officials. At least three lanes will be open for traffic at all times during construction on the bridge, which takes cars and pedestrians on Main Street over the Mystic River. Construction is expected to begin in Spring 2014, Project Manager Paul King said during a presentation to the Medford City Council last week.

Weather: There's a 50 percent chance of thunderstorms with highs in the low 80s today, according to the National Weather Service. Similar weather is expected tomorrow.

YOUR TURN: Starbucks In Funeral Homes?: A Starbucks is going to open inside a funeral home in South Carolina. Patch wants to know what you think about this, according to ABC News. Those attending a funeral at the Robinson Funeral Home in Easley, S.C., will soon be able to order a frappuccino before paying their respects. According to ABC News, the owner is also installing an area with Wi-Fi, a television and fireplace in the funeral home.

Vote for Medford's Best Bar: Time's running out to vote in this poll and for more of your favorite spots in Medford.