Things to do in Brandon

RIVERVIEW

'Freakshow' teams with gibsonton world of wonders

The AMC reality series Freakshow will highlight fire eaters, a bearded lady and the tallest man in America during a live broadcast Saturday at the American Carnival Museum.

The show, which focuses on a carnival run out of Venice Beach, hit the road during its second season and is teaming up with the World of Wonders Sideshow in Gibsonton.

Saturday's performance will include 10 acts: the rubber girl, sword swallowers, fire eaters, the electric lady, the human blockhead, the indestructible woman, the tallest man in America, the most famous tattooed and body-modified man in the world, the littlest lady in Los Angeles and the queen of the sideshow.

The AMC show follows Todd Ray, who owns the Venice Beach Freakshow in California. The family business includes his daughter, Asia, the youngest female sword swallower in the world.

The live taping will take place at 6 p.m. Saturday at the American Carnival Museum, 6992 Riverview Drive, Riverview. Admission is free.

RUSKIN

Loss of dog inspires shelter fundraiser

Paleontologist and singer Frank Garcia recently lost his beloved dog, Webster. To honor him, Garcia will hold a tribute to benefit other local animals.

"Webster's eyes said it all. It was as if he knew more about the universe than most," Garcia said. "Remember that unconditional love is the ultimate masterpiece of work in the universe. Nothing can compare."

Garcia will host the two-hour tribute and benefit concert, "A Tribute to Webster," at 7 p.m. today at the Firehouse Cultural Center, 101 First Ave. NE. Entertainment will include Dennis Lee of the "Dennis Lee Show," singer Sandy Nitch, Garcia and others. There will be a cash bar with devil crabs and Cuban sandwiches. There will also be a silent auction.

Proceeds benefit the C.A.R.E. Animal Shelter in Ruskin. Seating is limited. To get information or to make a reservation, call (813) 645-7651.

Times staff