9 things to know this week: March 11, 2013 edition

CINCINNATI - From St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Covington to Tri-State weather that can't make up its mind, we've got a list of important things to know this week, close to home and further afield.

1. It's cold again. Although Sunday’s weather was mild, March is still "in like a lion."  With temperatures expected to feel very winter-like by Thursday. The silver lining: temperatures to top off at 50 degrees for the weekend. Keep up with weather conditions here with the 9 On Your Side team .

2. This weekend also brings St. Patrick’s Day, with celebrations in Covington’s MainStrasse Village on March 16 and 17. Watch for more in our weekly "Top 9 things to do this weekend."

3. The circus is in town March 13-17 at US Bank Arena, where you can catch the Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus show.

4. It’s time to pick the Pope. Starting Tuesday, Cardinals are gathering in Vatican City for a papal conclave to choose the next head of the Catholic church. Although no one knows who it might be, white smoke from the Sistine Chapel lets everyone know when he’s appointed. 

• PHOTOS:  Contenders to be the next Pope

5. Gas prices are all over the map in the region this week. Monday started with a gallon costing an average of $3.58, 15 cents cheaper than last Monday’s average of $3.73. But, some stations were starting to sell gas at $3.79 a gallon as the day progressed. 

6. Public housing. Green Township trustees will meet at 5 p.m. on Monday at the administration complex, 6303 Harrison Ave., to talk to citizens concerned about 32 public housing units mandated for the township.

7. Veteran’s advocate and actor Gary Sinise will be in Cincinnati to recognize 12 local veterans as they complete the Get Skills to Work training program on March 14.

8.  Looking for a new kind of fitness? Yoga Alive, 2713 Edmonson Rd., opened in Rookwood on March 10 and is offering free yoga classes until March 16.

9. Opponents of Cincinnati’s parking proposal will be at the Hamilton County Common Pleas Court on Friday asking a judge to issue an injunction to prevent the city’s parking plans from taking effect until a referendum is held.

What did we miss? Please share your tips about what Tri-State residents should know this week in the comments section.