Halloween candy buy-back!

In thousands of locations across the country, during the first week of November, dental offices will be “buying back” children’s uneaten, wrapped “leftover” Halloween candy. All the candy that is “bought back” will be shipped overseas to American troops. Children and parents also have the opportunity to sign cards for our troops as well.

As of this writing, only one dentist has advertised a buy-back program in Brevard: Dr. Ronald Richardson of Melbourne Cosmetic Dentistry. The drop-off date is Tuesday, November 1 from 3 - 5 p.m. The location is: 1704 Airport Blvd., Melbourne. Here's how to participate:

• Bring your child and the candy they wish to donate to the office.
• The candy will be weighed and the child will receive $1 per pound of candy.
• Children will receive a free toothbrush and a coupon for a free Happy Meal.
• The candy will be shipped to troops as outlined above.

Dr. Richardson's office has asked that any questions be directed to the office at 321-723-3477 or their website. Children are asked to please bring a letter for the troops, which will be included with the candy.

Veterans say that the donated candy is put to good use in working with and befriending the “locals” to get intelligence information about IEDs and other dangers in the war zones.