5 Things You Need to Know Today: August 2

1.The Manatee County School board voted 3-2 to approve a tentative increase in the millage rate as part of its nearly $580 million proposed budget. After a contentious debate over the budget, the board approved a millage rate that will cost the average taxpayer an additional $53 per year if it is adopted in September. The board adopted a 7.960 millage rate, up from 7.591, but agreed that it would hold additional work sessions to try to make deeper cuts in the school budget.

2. Tami Spyker has organized Bradenton's only National Night Out Event tonight. The neighborhood watch block party will take place at a cul-de-sac on 27th Avenue Drive West, near 67th Street West. The event, targeted at fighting neighborhood crime, begins at 5:30 p.m.

3. The Council of Governments is scheduled to meet at 4 p.m. today. The county's new Marine Rescue facility and noise from the Airport are on the agenda. The meeting begins at 4 p.m. in chambers.

4. Suceessful Women Aligning Together, SWAT, will hold a networking lunch today from 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Chapters in Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota are invited to attend the event at , 1816 9th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205.  Bring busness cards to share, announcements for fundraisers, special events or business opportunities. The price is $10 for members, $15 for non-members for lunch. For more information call 941-748-6868 or visit www.swatnetworking.com.

5. It's World Breastfeeding Week and The Manatee County Health Department's WIC office is celebrating on Thursday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at 212 6th Ave. E. The event is free and open to the public. Attendees can participate in games, prizes and refreshments. The guest speaker will be Katie Powers RN, IBCLC, who will offer a free seminar on the benefits of breastfeeding. Displays and Information will be available from Community Partner Agencies including:
MOMMS's Place, Lakewood Ranch Medical Center; Whole Child Project, Manasota; Healthy Start Coalition of Manatee, Hope Family
Services; Women's Resource Center; Suncoast Work Force; Exchange Club Family Partnership Center; Healthy Families Manatee and Manatee Glens.
For more information call 941-748-0747 ext 1394 or visit
http://www.doh.state.fl.us/chdManatee/index.htm