Get Out: Weekend Planner for Brandon and Beyond

Most schools are in recess April 22 for the start of spring break as the weekend features yard sales and a family fun day, community theater, swing dancing, Internet instruction and visits with the Easter Bunny.

Here's a list of events to consider and, as always, we invite you suggestions as well in the comment box below.

BRANDON RECREATION CENTER COMMUNITY YARD SALE AND FAMILY FUN DAY

• When/Where: 8 a.m.-1 p.m., April 23, , 510 E. Sadie St.
• Why Go: The proceeds from the event benefit the Adopt-A-Camper program that helps children attend after-chool and summer camp programs. Register at the event for the program. If you are applying for aid, it it is necessary to bring the first page of  your 2010 Form 1040 U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. Call: 813-635-8179

INTRODUCTION TO THE INTERNET

• When/Where: 10:30-11:30 a.m., April 23,  619 Vonderburg Drive
• Why Go: Introduction to the Internet and related terminology. Basic mouse and keyboarding skills are recommended.  Registration in person required no earlier than one hour prior to the start of the program.  Call: (813) 273-3652

 SATURDAY NIGHT SWING DANCE

• When/Where: 7-11 p.m., April 23, , 610 Oakfield Drive
• Why Go: Join the Way 2 Dance Studio for its monthly Saturday night swing sance party. Strap on your dancing shoes and let loose to the sounds of Big Band, jazz and oldies hits. Experienced or novice, this event is for you. The beginner's dance lessons begins at 7 p.m. followed by an open dance from 8-11 p.m. Call: (813) 966-4788

STAGEDOOR'S FINAL "NEVERLAND" SHOWS

• When/Where: 8 p.m., April 22 and 23, South Bay Community Church 13498 U.S. Highway South, Riverview
• Why Go: “” is "the story of Peter Pan, just told a little differently,” says director Domin Pazo said. “It’s got the classic characters in it and it brings out the little kid in everybody.”  Doors open at 7:30 p.m. ickets cost $12 for general admission and $10 for students, seniors and military. Call: (813) 630-2237

"HELP OUR PETS" (HOP) ADOPT-A-THON AND MORE

• When/Where: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Hillsborough County Animal Services, 440 Falkenburg Road, 33619 (Greater Brandon area of Tampa).
• Why Go: Pet adopt-a-thon, egg hunt (11 a.m.), bunny hop contest, "ask-the-vet" opportunities, 30 rescue groups and shelter partners, special guest "Red Ruff" and "Blue Mew" from PETCO.  Call: 813-744-5660.

 EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA

• When/Where: 10 a.m-4 p.m., April 23, R & R Ranch, 9805 Bryant Road, Lithia.
• Why Go: Pony rides, cart rides and hayrides rides;  a playground and a petting zoo. Admission is $10 per child. Call 813-653-3819 

MEET THE EASTER BUNNY AT WESTFIELD BRANDON MALL

• When/Where: 10 a.m.-9 p.m., April 21-23, Westfield Brandon mall, 459 Town Centre Blvd. (The bunny will be on a break from 1-1:30 and 5-5:30.)
• Why Go: Last chance this season to Meet the Easter Bunny at Westfield Brandon Mall. Pose for a family photo by Shutterfly Photography. Call: (813) 661-5100

EASTER BUNNY TO VISIT

• When/Where: 11 a.m., April 23, 5721 Osprey Ridge Drive, Lithia
• Why Go: Visit the Easter Bunny at the Osprey Club on Saturday, April 23. During the event, snap a picture of your children while they meet the bunny.  To capture this special moment, please be sure to bring your own camera as there will not be a photographer on site.  In addition to meeting the bunny, children will have an opportunity to make a spring craft, watch an Easter movie and enjoy an eggstra special treat. The cost per child is $5 cash or check. Space is limited.  Email: info@fishhawkconnect.com

YARD SALES

• When/Where: 7 a.m.-noon, April 24, Alafia American Legion Post 148, 7240 US Highway 301 South
• Why Go: The Alafia American Legion Post 148 will host a yard sale every Sunday from 7 a.m. to noon at the post, 7240 U.S. 301, Riverview. Spaces are available for $7 and tables can be rented for $5. The post will serve breakfast from 9 to 11 a.m. Call: (813) 677-6529

YAPPY HOUR 

• When/Where: 6 p.m.-9 p.m., April 24, Alafia American Legion Post 148, 10475 Gibsonton Drive
• Why Go: Dr. Kimberly Tyson of Four Paws Veterinary Hospital is organizing a monthly Yappy Hour to benefit a different animal-related charity each month. Call: (813) 672-3687.

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