Five Things You Need to Know Today, Dec. 6

1. Today's weather: The National Weather Service is calling for a sunny day, with a high near 39. Northwest wind 5 to 8 mph. On Thursday night, it will be Partly cloudy, with a low around 27. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph after midnight.

2. City Welfare office wants gifts cards: The Portsmouth Welfare Department at City Hall is seeking donations of gifts cards in increments of $25 or less to help less fortunate Portsmouth area families this holiday season. 

3. Temple Israel to celebrate Hanukkah: The Temple Israel on State Street will celebrate Hanukkah, the Jewish festival of lights, on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. with the lighting of the first candle of the Menorah.

4. Enter Patch Deck the House contest: Portsmouth Patch is accepting submissions of photos and video from Portsmouth residents who believe they have the best holiday lights for the Patch Deck the House contest. The winner of the nationwide competition will receive $100,000 for their local school district and have their electricity bill paid for one month.

5. Seacoast Area Firefighters Toy Bank: The Seacoast Area Firefighters Toy Bank needs your help to give some children a Merry Christmas and any donation of new toys and gift cards is welcome.