5 Things You Need to Know Today: September 26

1.The is in need of newspapers for its litter boxes. Drop off your unwanted newspaper at the shelter during normal working hours. The shelter is always looking for something warm and fuzzy for the cats and dogs to sleep on, such as clean blankets and towels.

2. , in collaboration with Minority AIDS/HIV Social Services (MASS), will host a health fair on Monday intended to raise awareness about health issues in the Gay community. Participants will be able to take part in various health screenings and activities, all offered free-of-charge.  Health screenings and services will include cholesterol education and testing,
blood pressure, diabetes and HIV/AIDS rapid testing (results in 20 minutes). Family-friendly activities will include face-painting and children's games. The event, which is open to the general public, will take place at Touch of Class, 5331 14th St W, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. No appointments needed. Additional HIV and STD testing will be offered at various locations throughout the week. Check the Manatee County Health Department's website for details.

3. The will hold a work session on the county's sign ordinance on Tuesday at 9 a.m. 

4. The is scheduled to meet Tuesday at 8:30 a.m.

5. The will host an evening with Dr. Mark Moffett, an adventurer and Research Associate at the Smithsonian Institution. On Thursday at 6:30 p.m. Moffett will deliver a presentation titled “Adventures Among Ants: A Global Safari with a Cast of Trillions,” based on his newest book. The lecture focuses on his adventures around the world with extraordinary ant species as well as fascinating scientific parallels between ant and human societies. Called the “Indiana Jones of Entomology” by the National Geographic Society,  Moffett is a scientist, tropical explorer, ecologist and photojournalist who spent the past 30 years researching ants. He has travelled the globe, from Hong Kong to Australia, Madagascar to Chile, studying hundreds of species including leafcutter, weaver, Argentine and African army ants. Tickets for Museum Members are available for $7 per person and tickets for non-members will be $10 per person. Seating is limited and reservations are required.