5 Things You Need to Know Today: September 8

1. The Manatee County Board of Commissioners approved unanimously approved the annual budget, which includes a flat millage rate. The board of commissioners increased the sheriff's budget allowing him to hire 10 additional deputies. Nearly every other department saw cuts to its budgets.

2. The Manatee County School Board will hold a public hearing on its budget today at 5:58 p.m. Currently the school budget calls for an increase in the millage rate, even though school board members to the school superintendant's budget request.

3. The Manatee Tiger Bay Club will offer a panel discussion on 9/11 at Pier 22, 1200 First Ave., Bradenton. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. The cost is $20 for members and $25 for guests. For reservations email manateetigerbay@aol.com or call (941) 746-1151. The panel includes Cathy Giliberti, former executive vice president and attorney for Silverstein Properties Inc., which held all the World Trade Center leases; Sheriff Brad Steube who will talk about MSO’s post-9/11 mission, the changes in law enforcement and advances in technology; Rick Piccolo, president and chief executive officer of Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport. Airports and travelers continue to be impacted by new laws and policies that have been put in place since 9/11.

4. The Bradenton Marauders tied the pay off series in the second game with a resounding 10-0 win over St. Lucie. The winner of tonight's game will go to the Championship.

5. The of Manatee is hosting an eight week class on How to Start and Manage Your Business. The class will begin today at the Resource Center, 1926 Manatee Ave W. The classes, which will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., are open to women and men. The fee is $50 for the entire 8 week course, which includes putting together a business plan, budgeting, bookkeeping, designing a website and more. Andy Fox, president  of The Fox Business Group LLC., will lead the classes. For more information or to register call 747-6797.