5 Things to Know Today, July 21

1. In case you missed this historic moment, Atlantis touched down this morning at 5:56 a.m., ending 30 years of space flight.

2. Hillsborough County is holding a series of public hearings to receive input on its upcoming two-year budget cycle (FY2012/2013).

This second hearing will be held Thursday, July 21 at 6 p.m. (speaker sign-up starts at 5:30 p.m.) in the Special Events Center West at the Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 US 301 N., Tampa.

Public comment is welcome and encouraged. Public hearing attendees should use the entrance on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard to the fairgrounds. Parking will be free for attendees.

Additionally, residents will be able to view all budget workshops live on Bright House channel 622, Verizon and Comcast channel 22, or on the county's website at www.hillsboroughcounty.org/budgetmatters through live streaming video. 

Those who cannot attend the public hearings have a variety of opportunities to give their ideas and opinions on budget actions by sending e-mails to hcbudget@hillsboroughcounty.org, or by voice or text to 813-704-0181.

More information and instructions for all comment options, a link to the dates of the budget hearings and workshops, and a link to the proposed budget document in its entirety are available on the county's website at www.hillsboroughcounty.org/budgetmatters/.

3. The Brandon Homemakers meet today at 10 a.m. at the Brandon Recreation Center, 502 E. Sadie St., Brandon.

4. The Hillsborough County Twirlettes meet today at 4 p.m. at Foundation Christian Academy. The baton and flag team perform at local events and parades.

5. Alcoholics Anonymous meets Monday through Thursday at noon in Room 3 at St. Stephen Catholic, 5049 Bell Shoals Road, Valrico.