5 Things to Know Today: Monday, Dec. 12

Dispatch Discussion: Gulfport Police Chief Robert Vincent and Lt. James Bordner of the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office will be at tonight's Gulfport Crime Watch Meeting at 7 p.m. at the Neighborhood Center, 1617 49 Street S., to talk about the transition and process of PCSO taking over dispatch services for the Gulfport Police Department.

Is Your Home Decked Out? Patch.com is launching a nationwide contest to find the best dressed home in its Patch communities, and the winner’s school district will receive $100,000, no strings attached. Enter our "Deck the House" contest today by uploading a photo of your home.

Share Your Photos: Did you snap some awesome photos from this weekend's boat parade, Holiday Hoopla or volunteer cleanup at Lincoln Cemetery? Share them with us on Gulfport Patch. Email them to the Editor at cherlene.willis@patch.com. Thanks!

Candidate Deadline: The Gulfport City Council qualifying dates for the March, 13, 2012 elections ends today at noon.

Monday Forecast: We have a 30% chance of rain. Otherwise, it'll be mostly cloudy with a high near 77. Expect an east northeast wind between 8 and 10 mph. Tonight, partly cloudy with a low around 63. An east northeast wind between 9 and 13 mph.