5 Things You Need to Know Today, July 21

1. The National Association of County and City Health Officials has recognized Manatee County Health Department for its ability to respond to public health emergencies. The county's health department met the standards required by Project Public Health Ready, a unique partnership between the association of health officials and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The project required the Manatee County Health Department to meet expectations in
three key areas: all hazards preparedness planning; workforce capacity and demonstration of all-hazards readiness through exercises or a response to an actual event. During public health emergencies, the health department is the agency charged with coordinating the response and restoration of the county's health and medical
infrastructure.

2. The City Attorney continues to investigate whether the city can ban horses from the Palma Sola Causeway. Even though the Public Works director reported that there are no environmental concerns from the horses in the Palma Sola Bay, the City Council wants to investigate public safety concerns.

3. The space shuttle is expected to enter the atmosphere over Florida at 5:43 a.m. Listen for the sonic boom.

4. Public Hearings on the are set for Sept. 12 and Sept. 21 at 5:01 p.m.

5. Check out this week's on where to go for a great glass of wine.