5 Things You Need To Know Today: December 5

1. The County Commission is expected to vote Tuesday morning on whether to give Widewaters Development Inc. $125,000 in economic development incentives for the Manatee River Hotel, aka . In addition, the county will allow the developer to use spaces in county owned parking lot a block southwest of the proposed hotel. The meeting begins at 9 a.m.

2. The Manatee County School Board will meet in a budget workshop at 4 p.m. today. The board will receive presentation about vehicle maintenance, transporttion, maintenance and operations, food and nutrition services, purchasing and distribution and finance. 

3. The Manatee Players is joining Manatee Children’s Services to collect toys and gifts for local abused and neglected children and teens.  Last year, MCS helped provide Christmas gifts for more than 200 young people and this year the need is even greater. New unwrapped toys and gift items can be dropped off at the , 102 Old Main Street in downtown Bradenton.  Gift items for teens are especially needed.

4. Royal Rescue is hosting a jazz brunch at the Daquiri Deck on St. Armands Circle from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door. Brunch will include Bloody Marys, Mimosas and a silent auction. All proceedswill go be used to rescue pets from area shelters. For information go to Royal Rescue.

5. Want to win $100,000 for your child's school? Check back with Patch on details of national Christmas Lights contest.