Five Things You Need To Know Today: August 20

1. There will be a blood drive today at the New Providence Firehouse, located at 175 Floral Ave., from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hosted by New Jersey Blood Services, this drive was organized by Krista Delia, 16,

2. Accomplished jazz vocalist Laura Hull returns to Ponte Vecchio, located at 535 Central Ave., tonight with her trio for . The performance will run from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. There is no cover charge, but reservations are recommended. To make reservations, please call 908-464-4424.

3. The Galeria West Art Gallery, located at 111 Quimby St. in Westfield, will present tonight at 7:30 p.m. This is an evening of gypsy jazz, bossa nova, boleros and more, with this acclaimed Venezuelan violinist. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children. Tickets may be purchased in person at Galeria West Art Gallery or reserved by phone by calling the SunRex hotline: 908-301-1285 or Galeria West: 908-301-9217. 

4. The Long Hill Center, located at 769 Valley Rd. in Gillette, will host a "" event tonight from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. This event is open to all who are 45 years of age and older. The evening will be filled with music, friends and fun. For more information, please call Ramona at 908-647-3295 or Bruce at 732-208-5955.

5. The AAA New Jersey Automobile Club is sponsoring free child safety seat checks at the AAA Car Care Center in Springfield, located at 135 Route 22 East, to educate parents on proper installation and use of child safety seats. The safety check will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Click for more information.