Plaza Bella Hosts British Block Party

The British will invade Plaza Bella Friday night when the merchants of the shopping center on Bloomingdale Avenue host their first British-American Block Party.

Joining forces with the Brandon British Club founded by Bloomingdale resident Jen Johanson, the event will run from 6 to 9 p.m. and include fish and chips from Cheddar Biscuit, British rock n' roll from Big Beats Entertainment, a James Bond and Austin Powers costume contest, a display of Mini-Coopers along with a James Bond treasure hunt and trivia contest.

One inspiration for the evening was The Green Boutique's newest offering, My Flat in London, an exclusive line of handbags, jewelry and accessories designed by Jan Haedrich. Residents can register to win a trip for two to London when they preview the new line Friday night.

The Plaza Bella merchants also were inspired by the just-released James Bond film, "Skyfall," said Debbie Ploor, owner of Orange Home Accessories.

"We were trying to think of a unique event to have and it just evolved from there," said Ploor.

The Plaza Bella merchants will have specials throughout the evening.

Admittance is a $5 donation and a nonperishable food donation to the Brandon Emergency Care Help Organization.

"We have been incredibly busy over the past few months, and our pantry is empty," said ECHO Executive Director Stacy Efaw.

She said ECHO, which provides food and clothing to residents facing emergencies, is especially in need of:

• Canned meats (tuna or chicken)
• Pasta and sauce
• Macaroni and cheese
• Peanut butter and jelly or jam
• Canned vegetables and fruits

"This is a great opportunity for a fun, family night with great food and entertainment while helping promote British and local businesses and raising some needed funds for ECHO," said Johanson.

For information on the block party, contact Ploor at 813-681-8686.

For information on the Brandon British Club, contact Johanson at BrandonBritishClub@gmail.com.