5 Things You Need to Know Today: March 2nd

Here is a list of 5 things you need to know today:

1. Knollwood School Blood Drive: The Knollwood School Student Council is hosting a Central Jersey Blood Drive tomorrow. It will take place in the Knollwood School All Purpose room from 2:30-6:30. To make an appointment to donate blood and for more information, you can call Judy Miller, the school nurse, at 732-747-2257.

2. Forrestdale Students Create African Library: The 4th and 5th graders of the Forrestdale Book Club have been collecting books  in order to start a library in Africa. They successfully reached over 1,000 book, which is the number needed to do so. "These young readers are happy to spread their joy of reading with children who are less fortunate," says Jamie Walsack, Book Club advisor.  They are now in the next step in the process, which is raising $500 to cover the shipping costs. They are hoping to raise the money through donations.  To learn more about the project, you can contact Jamie Walsack by e-mail: jwalsack@rumsonschool.org

3. NJ Court System Needs Volunteers: The New Jersey Committee has posted a video on YouTube, highlighting the volunteer opportunities available to members of the public through the NJ court system.  As Chief Justice Stuart Rabner mentions in the video, .  The courts would not be able to run smoothly without the time and effort donated by citizens.  You can view the video here.  Visit the website to learn more about opportunities: njcourts.com/volunteer.  

4. Basie Winner Gets Lead Role: Austin Ryan is a 18-year-old Senior at Rumson Fair Haven Regional High School. He is also the lead role in this year's spring musical, . Get to know him by checking out the about him and his passion for theater featured on Patch today.

5. Restaurant Month is here! The following are the specials featured for Wednesdays throughout the month;

• Barnacle Bill's Live Music
• David Burke Fromagerie New Wine & Swine Dinner for $35 with selected wines by the glass for $8
• Murray MacGregor's Publik House Kids EAT FREE ($4.95 value) with the purchase of an adult meal $9.95 or more
• Salt Creek Grille  ½ Off wines by glass
• Undici ½ Off bottles on the seasonal wine list featuring great Italian wines
• Val’s Tavern and Restaurant Mangia Mangia Wednesdays: 4 Toppings, All You Can Eat Pasta $10, At the bar: Girls Night Out 8 pm – close featuring $5 Martinis, Margaritas, Wine & Sangria (Ladies Special Only)
• What's Your Beef  ½ Off Dessert!