5 Things You Need To Know Today: February 21

1. State College of Florida Manatee-Sarasota, 5840 26th Street W., will host an open house today at 4 p.m. for high school students and their families who are interested in pursuing college after high school graduation. SCF offers a variety of degrees. Visit scf.edu/admissions for more information. An SCF scholarship drawing will be held for eligible high school students. For more information, call SCF Bradenton at 941-752-5422.

2. Blake Medical Center, in partnership with the ACHIEVE Coalition at the Manatee County Health Department, is offering a free taste testing event Thursday to celebrate the second year of the Healthy Choices Restaurant Program in Manatee County. This year's theme is "Taste Around the World." Each restaurant will bring healthy menu items inspired by places like Peru, Thailand, Greece and Spain. This is a great opportunity to try delicious new food and learn more about your options for eating healthy in Manatee County restaurants. The event will take place at Blake Medical Center from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. It is open to the public. Chefs and dietitians will be available to answer your questions about healthy eating and the Healthy Choices Restaurant Program. For more information call 1-888-359-3552 or visit the Healthy Choices website at www.BlakeMedicalCenter.com/HealthyChoices.

3. Get an update on the state of Manatee County's health care during a work session of the Manatee County Commission on Tuesday at 1:30 p.m. in County Commission Chambers. Hear about the new Trauma Center at Blake Medical Center, get an update on Medical students working in the community and learn about mental health issues from the CEO at Manatee Glens.

4. Cast your vote to put Bradenton into the top small cities in the nation with a vibrant arts scene.

5. Meet local celebrities while you celebrate the Manatee County United Way at its Celebrity Bartenders event Thursday to benefit the United Way of Manatee County. The fundraiser will be at the Polo Grill and Bar, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch. The Open Door Band will perform from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. Don't forget to tip your celebrity bartender. All tips go to the United Way.