GET OUT: Weekend Events Preview June 17-19

It’s Thursday, and you’ve got no idea what you’ll do for the weekend.

Patch is coming to the rescue. We’ve got the best bets for your done-work-outta-here time. Check our picks for the activities to hit and new bars/restaurants/shops to explore.

WHAT/WHEN: To get the word out on the dangers of texting while driving and other reckless driving habits, Bloomingdale Girl Scout Liz Hinckley is hosting a Drive Safe 5K June 18 at Alderman's Ford Park off County Road 39 in Lithia.

WHY GO: At the race, she will ask participants to sign a pledge to drive safely. Each person signing the pledge will receive a beaded bracelet made by Hinckley that spells out messages such as "No Texting" and "Drive Safely." There will be T-shirts for the first 100 race participants. Hinckley also plans to have free post-race refreshments available and a craft table for kids.

In addition to the 5K race, which begins at 8 a.m., Hinckley is organizing a kid's fun run at 9 a.m. The cost to participate is $15 for adults and $10 for children.

Registration forms are available at www.drivesafe5k.weebly.com.

WHERE/WHEN: Barbara Schwabe, candidate for honorary mayor of Brandon, continues her fundraising campaign on Friday, June 17, hosting a Wines & Designs event at Center Place starting at 6:30 p.m.

WHY GO: Guests will create a hand-painted wine glass or beer stein while enjoying wine and dinner. All supplies are included. The cost is $30 per person or $50 per couple.

WHERE/WHEN: Cami Gibertini, the other candidate for honorary mayor of Brandon, also is planning a fundraiser this weekend. On Saturday, June 18, supporters are invited to Cami’s Combat Challenge at the Campo Y from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. 

WHY GO: For $20, including a T-shirt and snack, participants will take a body combat class.

WHERE/WHEN: The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 75 provides free, no-obligation vessel safety inspections for recreational boaters at E.G. Simmons Park in Ruskin on the first and third Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and at Williams Park in Gibsonton the second and fourth Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m..

WHO GO: These inspections take about 15 minutes and can help save your life in case of a boating emergency.

WHERE/WHEN: Bishop Wayne will perform at Park Square Cellar, 13132 Churchview Drive, Lithia, Friday, June 17 from 9 a.m. to 1 a.m.

WHY GO: Enjoy live reggae music while enjoying one of Park Square Cellar's signature cocktails or bottle of wine and a cheese platter or appetizer of grapes rolled in brie and pistachio or citrus-smoke salmon.