Five Things You Need to Know Today" is a Patch column that provides readers with essential, daily information at a glance. 

Today is Thursday, Dec. 13. Here are 5 things you need to know:

• Sunny: Looks like a pretty nice day today. According to the National Weather Service we can expect sunny skies with a high near 43 degrees. Mostly clear tonight with a low around 28.

• Public meetings: The Board of Assessors is meeting at 6 p.m. in the Town Hall Annex hearing room. The Conservation Commission is meeting at 7 p.m. in the main hearing room at Town Hall. The Library Board of Trustees is meeting at 7 p.m. in the Burlington Public Library.

• Toastmasters: There is a session of the "Last Word Toastmasters Club" at 6:30 p.m. tonight at the Burlington Public Library. This Toastmasters Club is an international organization dedicated to helping members improve their communication and leadership skills. Come join the fun-filled, stress-free, supportive group. Walk-ins are always welcome.

• Meteor shower: The Geminid meteor shower 2012 will peak overnight tonight into tomorrow morning. Click here for details on peak hours and tips for seeing the show. 

• A Hobbit's Holiday: "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" the first of the three movies based on J. R. R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit" debuts at midnight tonight at AMC Burlington Cinema 10. Click here for more information and to see a trailer of the movie.