Brandon-area YMCAs are looking for help to make Christmas special for some underprivileged youngsters. Four YMCAs will hold a holiday celebration Dec. 15 for families in need at Camp Cristina in Riverview. ...more

December 1, 2007

One Christmas long ago, young Paul Barber wished with all his might for a train set with an engine that puffed real smoke. The boy rejoiced when he spied the toy underneath the tree Christmas morning. ...more

December 1, 2007

RIVERVIEW – La mortífera nube de anhídrido de amoníaco que ocasionó que cientos fueran evacuados anoche está casi controlada, más de 12 horas después de que un adolescente de 16 años perforara un agujero en la tubería. ...more

November 13, 2007

The smell of fresh pumpkin floated throughout the grounds, encircling young goblins, fairies, ghouls and super-heroes. ...more

October 27, 2007

Five small businesses that focus on community service, business growth and other challenges were recognized Oct. 18 as Brandon's outstanding small businesses for 2007. ...more

October 27, 2007

Developers of the massive FishHawk Ranch community are looking to expand again. ...more

October 22, 2007

Thursday Music Showcase To See Pink For Benefit This month, Music Showcase at 402 Oakfield Drive, Brandon, will get in the fundraising spirit for breast cancer research. The center will hold a fundraiser from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, accepting donations and selling pink ribbons, colorful ribbon cards, pink cupcakes, pink lemonade smoothies and pink M&M cookies. The Music Showcase staff will wear pink during the event. Students, parents and customers can help by volunteering. Proceeds will benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Call (813) 685-5998. ...more

October 17, 2007

Newland Communities is known throughout the Tampa Bay area for its FishHawk Ranch and MiraBay communities. Now, they hope to become known for pumpkins and fun. ...more

October 14, 2007

Halloween Happenings SCARE THE CROW FUNDRAISER: Plaza Bella, 1078 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico. A 'Scare The Crow' fundraiser will be held from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. today. Local businesses and organizations are invited to build scarecrows to be auctioned off to benefit the charity of their choice. Brandon Honorary Mayor George T. May IV will judge the contest. Awards will be given in three categories: trendiest, best and brainiest. Plaza merchants will offer activities throughout the day, including games and face-painting for children, music, door prizes, refreshments and merchandise discounts. Call (813) 685-9494. ...more

October 13, 2007

Things To Do is a list of some of the most interesting upcoming events. For a complete list of Tampa Bay area events, see this week's Friday Extra. ...more

October 3, 2007