Memorial Day Edition

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From The Southshore Circle

Upon Us All

As you prep the boat, fire up the grill, or toss a football in the backyard, take a moment to reflect on why this day exists.

Memorial Day isn’t just a long weekend—it’s a solemn tribute to the men and women of our armed forces who paid the ultimate price, laying down their lives in defense of our country.

We pause not just to honor the fallen, but to recognize a sobering truth: the cost of freedom rests upon us all. It’s a legacy—not a burden—that we carry together. In gratitude. In remembrance. And in action.

Politics can divide us. That’s why we leave it out of this newsletter. Today, we’re not Democrats or Republicans, black or white, rich or struggling. We’re neighbors. We’re Americans.

The Brandon Buzz was created to bring our community closer—one issue, one story, one reminder at a time.

So today, let’s be worthy of the sacrifice made on our behalf.
Share a burger. Share a beer. Most of all—share a smile.

From all of us at The Brandon Buzz, thank you to those who served and those who sacrificed.

Things to do

🐝 WHAT’S BUZZING AROUND TOWN 🐝

Caps Off To The Class of 2025

It’s that season again—time to stock up on tissues, make those Cheesecake Factory reservations, and brace yourself for the nonstop loop of “Pomp and Circumstance.” Graduation has officially arrived.

All across the Brandon area, another class of bright, bold, and probably slightly sleep-deprived students is tossing caps and stepping into the next chapter. Whether they’re headed to college, trade school, the military, the workforce, or planning a six-month soul-searching trip through Europe (hostels and all), we’re proud of every single one of them.

This time of year hits hard for parents, too. The early mornings, the last-minute projects, the science fair disasters, and thousands of packed lunches—it all leads to this. So if you see someone crying in traffic this week, just assume they’ve got a senior walking across a stage and offer them a wave… or maybe a donut.

To the Class of 2025: congratulations. You’ve done the hard part. You’ve earned this moment. And now—well, now the real adventure begins. As Uncle Ben (or maybe Voltaire, depending on who you ask) once said: “With great power comes great responsibility.” So be bold. Call your parents. File your taxes. And please—check your oil.

And of course, we’d be remiss if we didn’t give a special shoutout to this year’s valedictorians and salutatorians—students whose GPAs look more like pinball scores. Scroll down to see some of the standout seniors from Brandon, Newsome, Bloomingdale, and Durant who absolutely crushed it.

We’re proud to recognize:
Calleigh Eakle, Emilia (Mia) Cummings, Hannah Salvog, Zachary Bosworth, Leah Greenwell, Alanna Shill-Reyes, Sarah Widlak, Maria O'Connor

From all of us at The Brandon Buzz—we’re cheering you on.
Class of 2025, the world is yours.

Not Your Average Toad

It’s that time again, Brandon—when Florida’s weirdest wildlife makes a not-so-grand return. Cane toads (also known as bufo toads) are back in action, and they’re not just ugly—they’re toxic.

These chunky invaders aren’t just an eyesore; they’re a serious threat to your pets. One lick, chew, or curious sniff could lead to a medical emergency in minutes. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, exposure to their poison can kill a dog or cat in as little as 15 minutes.

🐾 Keep Your Pets Safe

Cane toads don’t chase or bite—but when they feel threatened, they release a toxin from their shoulders (yes, really). If your pet starts drooling, seizing, or acting strange after a toad encounter:

• Rinse their mouth with a damp cloth

• Call your vet immediately

• Do not wait and see

🙅 Are They Dangerous to Humans?

Not unless you’ve got a thing for licking wild amphibians.
Touching them won’t hurt you—but don’t get that toxin on your hands and then rub your eyes or eat a sandwich. Use gloves or a tool to move them, and wash up like you’re prepping for surgery.

🧐 How to Spot One

• Flat, broad head

• No ridges between the eyes

• No sticky toe pads (they don’t climb)

• Big “I live here now” energy

If you’re close enough to compare toad head shapes, you’re doing more than most of us are willing to.

🧊 Getting Rid of Them

Yes, you can legally remove and humanely kill cane toads—FWC even encourages it. Their official method? Bag it, freeze it, done.

If that’s not your vibe (no shame), try:

• Double-bagging and trashing on collection day

• Using tongs or a shovel to remove it

• Calling a pest control pro who handles invasives

Pro tip: tossing it in your neighbor’s yard is not pest control. It’s just rude.

🛡 How to Toad-Proof Your Yard

• Bring in pet food and water bowls at night

• Eliminate standing water, leaky hoses, and clutter

• Keep bushes trimmed and off the ground

• Seal fence gaps and yard access points

Brandon’s got enough critters—we don’t need ones that come with a poison warning. So keep your eyes open, your pets close, and your freezer toad-free.

🐶 Got a tip or story to share? Email us at [email protected]
(Especially if it includes a toad and a panicked trip to the vet—we love a good cautionary tale.)

THE BEES KNEES

Not really sure what it means, but we’re sure you’ll find it here.

Local Sports

School’s out. Summer’s in. Training starts today!

Local sports news. Hometown Heroes.

A Final Note

The Brandon Buzz, more than news, it’s a lifestyle.

Until next time,

Buzzing Local