By Kathy L. Collins
What happens when you mix football fans with a charitable spirit? You get the Brandon Browns Backers, a social organization that supports the Cleveland Browns and charitable causes within the greater Brandon area.
The Brandon Browns Backers is a local chapter of the Browns Backers Worldwide. They meet every Sunday or game day at Lee Roy Selmon’s located at 11310 Causeway Blvd. in Brandon to watch the Cleveland Browns games.
This year, in an effort to give something back to the community, it has partnered with the Friends of Hillsborough County Animal Shelter (FOHCAS) and ALS (commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease) and plan to raise $20,000 for these two non-profits. Its goal is to raise the money in the next 12 months. Greg Jones, owner/manager of Buckhorn Tennis and Swim Club, is a founder of the chapter and the current president. Jones said, “The Brandon Browns Backers is about more than just getting together to watch football. Together, we are trying to give back to the community.”
Jones explained, “One of our members has ALS and most of our members are animal lovers, so that is why we choose these two organizations.” Jones further explained, “We had always done a little bit for charity, but this year we picked two specific charities and we have made a solid commitment.”
The Brandon Browns Backers will raise the money in a variety of ways. It holds a 50/50 on game day. It periodically holds Corn Hole Tournaments. It also raffles off memorabilia. In addition, on game days, Lee Roy Selmon’s will donate $1 each time you order a drink or dish that has been specially made for the Brandon Browns Backers.
On November 9, it will hold its 5th Annual Golf Tournament at Falcon Watch Golf Club in Sun City Center. The golf tournament celebrates the fans of all of the Ohio teams including the Cleveland Browns, the Cinncinati Bengals and Ohio State.
For more information on the Brandon Browns Backers or to make a donation or to sign up for the golf tournament, please visit www.brandonbrownsbackers.com or call Greg Jones at 230-2871.
