5 Things You Need to Know Today: March 27

1. are expected to vote on new county regulations around pain management clinics. The new regulations are designed to help prevent rampant prescription drug abuse in the county.

2. The on Wednesday will vote on whether to change their election dates to align them with the county's. The move is expected to save the city money. In addition, the council is set to consider adding a referendum to the ballot to let voters decide whether to end run of elections when a candidate receives a majority of votes in an election with more than two candidates.

3. Don't forget to donate to your favorite non-profit in the 36-hour Giving Challenge, a new online fundraising opportunity for organizations in Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties. The challenge begins at 6 a.m. today and ends at 6 p.m. on Wednesday. The event is the kick-off for The Giving Partner, an online tool designed to help donors make more informed decisions about how they give. During the Giving Challenge, organizations that have completed profiles on The Giving Partner Web site are eligible to receive matching funds and other special grants.  The Community Foundation of Sarasota County, Gulf Coast Community Foundation, and Manatee Community Foundation — with the support of The Patterson Foundation — have partnered to launch The Giving Partner and to make the 36-Hour Giving Challenge possible. Together they are providing matching funds of $501,000. The goal is to raise $1 million for nonprofit organizations that make a difference in the community.

4. Start saving your money now for a rummage sale to be held on April 1 that will raise money for a 7 year-old boy that was struck by a car on February 15th at University Parkway and Lockwood Ridge Road. The child was a member of the kids club wrestling team at . The Manatee High Kids Club Wrestling is holding a rummage sale, car wash and hot dog sale from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Manatee Ave. and 34th Street West to raise money for his continued care. 

5. will hold United Way Day on Saturday. The Pittsburgh Pirates will host the Baltimore Orioles at 1:05 p.m. Tickets start at $10 per person and $2 from every ticket sold benefits United Way of Manatee County. To order tickets scan QR Code or go to www.uwmc.net or simply visit the McKechnie Field Box Office to purchase tickets at the window. Please mention United Way. For information call the United Way at 748-1313