July 11: Free Slurpees, Cyberbullying, Cutest Dog Contest and More

Here are the Five Things You Need to Know for July 11:

1. Cutest Dog Contest: Voting officially begins at 9 a.m. today for our cutest dog contest. Who will win the crown? John John? Layla? Piper? Brinkley? Vote in the article's comment section! (Voting ends Wednesday, July 18 at 9 a.m.)

2. 7-Eleven Day: This year marks the 85th anniversary of 7-Eleven and the franchise will continue its annual tradition by giving away free 7.11-ounce Slurpees from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. today.

3. Grant Money: Rep. Carolyn McCarthy recently held a workshop for local fire departments to help them apply for hundreds of thousands of dollars in federal grant money for equipment and staffing. Eight fire departments in McCarthy’s district received federal grants in 2010 and 2011. Find out who later today on Patch.

4. Volunteers Needed: Volunteers are needed in support of a community tree planting and urban forestry grant at the Ganners Pond Environmental Center. Weed, mulch, prune, water, plant. No special skills needed! All ages invited and tools will be provided. Dress for outdoor weather and bring sunscreen on July 21. Volunteering kicks off at noon, followed by a barbecue beginning at 5 p.m. For reservations email gcbirdsanctuary@gmail.com or call 516-326-1720.

5. Cyberbullying Law: Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed legislation to provide additional protections and procedures for students who are bullied or cyberbullied, according to Sen. Kemp Hannon. The legislation clarifies and expands the "Dignity for All Students Act," an anti-cyberbullying law enacted in 2010, and creates guidelines for local school districts to develop policies and procedures to address the problem. Read more about the new law later today on Patch.