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Volume 23, Issue 11
A Free Publication from Osprey Observer Inc.
November 2019
Celebrate Five Decades Filled With Festival Fun, Food & Fanfair At Nativity Novemberfest, Nov. 21-24
By Amanda Boston
Offers On Page 3
3
Hooked On Books
Nativity Catholic’s too bad that I was usualNovemberfest will celebrate ly late to church to find five decades of festival fun someone already parked when it returns from there.” Thursday, November 21 to The fest will take Sunday, November 24. place on the church Following the Florida State grounds on Thursday Fair and Strawberry from 4-10 p.m., Friday Festival, Novemberfest is from 4 p.m.-12 Midnight, the third largest annual carSaturday from 11 a.m. to nival in Hillsborough 12 Midnight and Sunday County. from 12 Noon to 10 p.m. More than just a timeThis year’s Alumni Day honored tradition, will be held on Sunday Novemberfest is Nativity’s along with Appreciation largest fundraiser supportSharon Evans, Susan Davis and Sherry Stewart selling advanced Day for the military, law armbands for students outside of church garage in 1989. ing its school and faith forenforcement and first mation program. The family-fun responders. attracts about 100,000 people each Admission, parking and year and is put on by its parish volentertainment are all free. unteers. Crowd favorite Soul Circus Sherry Stewart, a longtime Cowboy will perform Friday at parishioner of Nativity, has been 8:30 p.m. The country rock to make it larger scale by adding carhelping with Novemberfest for 40 band’s lead singer, Billy McKnight, is nival rides.” years. Stewart volunteers as the food an alumnus of Nativity Catholic Richard Boot, a Brandon resident, chairman managing the 15 different School. Also back this year is Classix, is credited for naming Novemberfest. vendors in the food tent. who will take ‘Center Stage’ on The late Monsignor Lara, Nativity’s “Years ago, my boys were going Saturday at 8:30 p.m. priest at the time, commissioned the to school here, and I wanted to get Paying homage to parishioners to come up with a name involved and contribute to my parish,” Novemberfest’s 50th anniversary, for the festival. explained Stewart. “We (Nativity) midway rides will include the Zipper, Boot said, "My name, used to have a festival twice a year, which recently celebrated 50 years. Novemberfest, was picked, and I got one in the spring and one in the fall, Unlimited ride armbands are $23 durfree parking in front of the church for but in the mid-80s, we switched to six months." He jokingly added, “It’s Continued on Page 19 one big festival because we wanted
Pastors Invited To Movie Screening With Kevin Sorbo
By Amanda Boston
Special Event
Columns: Grace Notes:
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Your Monthly Catch: Page 7 Hooked On Books:
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Faith & Footprints:
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All Pro Pastors presents a special date night for pastors and their spouses featuring dinner and a private screening of the new film, Miracle in East Texas. Actors and film producers Kevin and Sam Sorbo will be in attendance for a meet and greet and photo opportunity. The special date night is coming to both Tampa and Lakeland. Pastors can either attend the premiere on Thursday, November 7 at 6:30 p.m. at Mission Hill Church in Tampa or on Friday, November 8 at 6:30 p.m. at New Life Assembly of God in Lakeland. With limited seating, the event is expected to sell out. Tickets are $25 per couple and are available for purchase at www.allpropastors.org under the Events tab. Actor Kevin Sorbo is best known for his role as Hercules in the 1990s television series Hercules: The Legendary Journeys. More recently, he played the atheist professor in the Christian film God’s Not Dead (2014). Miracle in East Texas was directed by Kevin Sorbo and was inspired by true events. Described as a romantic Christian comedy, the film is set in the West during the Depression Era. Kevin Sorbo portrays Doc Boyd, a shifty
swindler taking advantage of well-to-do widows. His character is in cahoots with conman Dad Everett, played by John Ratzenberger, known for his role as Cliff in the television series Cheers. Sam Sorbo gives life to the character Flora May Simms, a widow who
encounters the dubious pair. “We’re (All Pro Pastors) just happy, as a ministry, to invite pastors and spouses for a fun date night with a dinner and a movie,” said Paul Pickern, founder of All Pro Pastors. “This ministry has been blessed by God to bring pastors together to help align the Kingdom.” Pickern, a Plant City resident and pastor, officially founded All Pro Pastors in 2009. The international ministry is dedicated to caring for pastors through encouragement and prayer. Pastors throughout the world gather weekly at ‘Champion Tables’ where they can ‘take off the pastor title’ and relate with others walking similar paths. Pickern concluded, “God said early on, ‘save the shepherds’ and by the grace of God that’s what we’ve been doing. With these different events, we want to be a blessing, but we also want these events to have some substance to it. Kevin and Sam’s movie is well done with Jesus all through it—where you can get the gospel and still have a good laugh.” For more information, visit the All Pro Pastors’ website. More details on Miracle in East Texas can found at www.miracleineasttexas.com.
Page 2 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019
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Page 3 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019
Plant City Honors Veterans & Military
By Cheryl Johnston
Plant City’s tradition of honoring veterans and active military continues in 2019 with a special BBQ luncheon event on Sunday, November 10 at the TECO Expo Hall at the Strawberry Festival Grounds. This cooperative effort by the Elks Lodge, Historic Plant City Main Street, the City of Plant City and the Chamber of Commerce will begin at 1:00 p.m., with doors opening at 12 Noon. Mission BBQ is providing the food. Veterans can receive two free tickets by showing their DD214 or VA card, while others can purchase the $10 BBQ meal tickets in advance at six area locations. The entire community is invited to enjoy an afternoon of music, presentation of the five branches of service flags and three special guests: •Captain Danny Burgess, the executive director of Florida Department of Veterans Affairs. •Congressman Ross Spano (who will sing the national anthem). •Mark Stephens, an American
Expiration: 11.30.2019
hero from the U.S. Special Forces, Delta Force, Black Hawk Down. The first 150 veterans to arrive will receive a goody bag, and there will be drawings for gifts. Sponsorships are still available. For those individuals or organizations purchasing 10 tickets or more, the program will include their name and they will receive a large, yellow 'Never Forget' ribbon to hang at their home or office from Monday, November 4 through Monday, November 11. Supply is limited, so hurry to mail your tax-deductible contribution checks, payable to Plant City Main Street, to Judy Wise at 2706 Pine Club Dr., Plant City, FL 33566. For more information, call her at 863-370-8389. Gift basket items and services or prize donations are also needed. Ticket outlets, which accept cash or checks only for this event, include the following: •AAA Gun & Ammo, Inc., 1105 Goldfinch Dr. •Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. •G5 Feed and Outdoor, 4960 US 92 •Pinch-a-Penny, 1411 S. Collins St. •Universal Tire & Auto Repair, 203 E. Baker St. •Walden Lake Car Wash, 1414 S. Alexander St. •YMCA, 1507 YMCA Pl.
Women’s Successful Living 4th Annual PJ Retreat Goes To Puerto Rico
By Libby Hopkins
sleepover retreat, attendees will meet 20 women who are dedicated to personal development and growth. WSL’s previous retreats saw attendees become visionaries who are boldly following their dreams of growth in their personal lives, work and even some new adventures. “Being our Fourth Annual PJ Retreat, our attendees will not only be empowered by local speakers such as Women’s Successful Living (WSL) will be Donna Sharpe with Whole-Listic hosting their Fourth Annual PJ Retreat from March 26-30, 2020 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Retreat, who will be sharing techwww.womenssuccessfulliving.com. niques on improving our emotional Former First Lady Michelle Obama well-being. Vanna Nguyen will be sharing once said, “There is no limit to what we, how hope can be an anchor for your soul. as women, can accomplish." Pearl I will be speaking on shackling your Chiarenza would agree with Mrs. Obama boundaries to succeed in achieving your because she has been helping women goals to being your authentic self with accomplish many life goals for the last other speakers to be named over the eight years. “I had attended a weekend next month,” Chiarenza said. empowerment event for women entrepreChiarenza hopes the upcoming neurs sharing on how to strategically align retreat will help to empower all its attenwith other women-owned businesses to dees. “As women, we often put our famihelp grow our business,” Chiarenza said. ly’s needs before ours and my mission is “The weeks following after attending the to teach women that to take care of our event and listening to the clients I families and jobs, we first must take care coached for their health journey, I realized of ourselves,” Chiarenza said. “I want to that we as women put the needs of empower women with the tools to help everyone else before ourselves. So I them live financially successful and started Women’s Successful Living healthier lives, so they become because there was a need for coaching SHEROES in finding their inner pearl to and retreats that would uplift all women greatness.” whether they are stay-home moms, busiIf you’d like to learn more about WSL ness owners or working outside of the or if you’d like to attend the upcoming PJ home, empowering them with tools to be Retreat, you can visit its website at their authentic self.” www.womenssuccessfulliving.com. WSL Women’s Successful Living (WSL) is still looking for local sponsors for the will be hosting its Fourth Annual PJ upcoming retreat, and if you are interestRetreat from March 26-30, 2020 in San ed in sponsorship, you can contact Juan, Puerto Rico. During this amazing Chiarenza at pearl@bodyworkshwc.com.
Expiration: 11.30.2019
Expiration: 11.30.2019
Page 4 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019
SeaWorld New Music, Diocese Donates To Hurricane Relief & More SeaWorld’s Praise Wave Returns With Popular Christian Music Acts
SeaWorld’s popular Christian music event, Praise Wave, returns to the park in November. Guests can enjoy live musical performances by some of the hottest names in Christian music and celebrate in an atmosphere filled with Christian friendship, thrilling rides and inspiring animal attractions. The uplifting live concert event series takes place Saturdays, November 2- November 16 at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. in the park's Nautilus Theater. Admission to the concert is included with a park ticket. Reserved seating packages for all performances are available online for $15. The 2019 musical performances include: Rend Collective on Saturday, November 2; Francesca Battistelli on Saturday, November 9; and Natalie Grant on Saturday, November 16. For info and to purchase tickets, visit www.SeaWorldOrlando.com.
Diocese of St. Petersburg Donates $250,000 for Hurricane Dorian Relief In The Bahamas
On September 25, Bishop Gregory Parkes issued a check in the amount of $250,000 to provide support to the victims of Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas. The check was mailed to Archbishop Patrick Pinder of the Archdiocese of Nassau for the specific purpose of relief and recovery efforts in the Bahamas following the devastating effects of the storm. The Archdiocese of Nassau encompasses all of the islands of the Bahamas, including
the Abaco islands, which suffered the greatest impact from Dorian. To make an online donation, go to www.dosp.org/hurricane-dorianrelief. You can also mail a check made out to Archdiocese of Nassau and send to Disaster Relief Fund, care of Diocese of St. Petersburg, P.O. Box 40200, St. Petersburg, FL 33743. For questions, call 727-344-1611. The Diocese of St. Petersburg is comprised of over 479,000 Catholics within the five counties of Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando and Citrus. It includes 74 parishes, 6 missions, 48 schools and early childhood centers and a variety of social service, health care, housing and pastoral ministries.
South Bay Genealogical Society Meeting
On Tuesday, November 19, the South Bay Genealogical Society will meet at the United Methodist Church in the Life Enrichment Center (LEC), 1210 W Del Webb Blvd. in Sun City Center. Meeting begins at 10:30 a.m. with a Round Table Discussion, followed by a sit-down luncheon at 12 Noon, and then the main presentation by guest speaker Donna Moughty at 1 p.m. She will be talk about Immigration. This program will help you find the place from which your ancestors left and where they landed. She will answer questions on the process of immigration. The cost is $15 per person for lunch. For reservations and information, call Dotty Love at 634-2749. Mail check to SBGS, PO Box 5202, Sun City Center, FL 33571 by November 7.
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Fall Festival and Free Market
The nonprofit organization Women Centered 4 Success will partner with the Emanuel P. Johnson Community Center, the Progress Village Civic Council, and the Specially Fit Foundation to host the third annual fall festival and free market community outreach event on Saturday, November 9 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. It’s not every day you can go to event, bring your own bags, and pick up free food, clothes, shoes, and gently used home décor. The Children’s Board of Tampa, Palm River Family Service Center, ECHO, True Love Ministries, and Lakewood Community Church of God, just to name a few organizations will be there to provide information about resources available to help build a better life. Other nonprofit organizations and local ministries are encouraged to come out and meet the community. This year the Census Bureau will be hosting an on-site hiring project for people who would are looking for a job. The Emanuel P. Johnson Community Center is located at 5855 S. 78th St. in Tampa. For more information, email wc4s2016@gmail.com.
The Riverview High School FCA To Host A ‘Night Of Praise’
On September 25, thousands of Christian students around the world gathered around their school’s flag pole for ‘See you at the pole.’ This student-led
By Michelle Colesanti
global day of prayer began in 1990. It is an opportunity for students to meet up with fellow believers to pray for their friends, families, teachers, school and nation. Local students from the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), a student-led club gathered in middle and high schools across Hillsborough County. The Riverview High School FCA is hosting a ‘Night of Praise’ on Thursday, November 14 at 6:30 p.m. The free event will be held at the high school’s auditorium. Students from all schools are welcome to attend. For more information about FCA, visit www.fcatampabay.org. For information about Night of Praise, contact Daniel Padron at 431-4049.
New Location For Brandon Christian Women's Connection Luncheon
The Brandon Christian Women's Connection Luncheon is now being held at Buckhorn Country Club on the second Tuesday of the month. Gather your friends and join in at this new exciting venue on Tuesday November 12 for a luncheon in honor of Veterans Day – ‘Give thanks, God, Country and Family’ together with music and an inspirational speaker. It will take place from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The cost is $15. First time guests are $10. This is a nondenominational luncheon. No memberships are required, but a reservation is necessary. Please call Lillie at 740-0098 for information and to attend.
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Page 5 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019
The Resting Place— A Church For The Weary
Grace Notes
Becoming a Smile Minister
By Amanda Boston
By Debora Coty I learned so much at the little church I attended as a young woman sharing the praise songs that popped into my head. I learned how to not panic in front of a crowd. I learned to paint pictures with words. And I learned to watch Sarah Beach. Sarah was a dear, soft-spoken woman a decade older than me. Sarah was an encourager. A Barnabas. Every time I stood quivering in front of that small congregation, sharing one of my newly written songs, Sarah’s was the face I sought. I could count on Sarah’s smile beaming at me from her seat, her head nodding, her gentle shoulders swaying to the beat of the music from the first note to the last. When I feared I would faint, I sang to Sarah. When I made epic blunders and felt like running away in tears, I sang to Sarah. When I couldn’t remember the words to the song I’d written, I made up lyrics for Sarah. Hers was often the only smiling, encouraging face in the room. My experience there taught me to always react when someone is putting themselves on the line, sharing something meaningful from their heart. Encouragement via engagement is such a small thing. It doesn’t hurt to smile;
it only helps. Them. You. It costs us nothing to give but may mean the world to the person receiving it. It might even change their life. It did mine. I’d never have had the guts to pursue a public speaking ministry if it hadn’t been for Sarah. Honest encouragement at the right time can help someone more than any sermon, Bible study or self-help book. To this day I make it a point to emulate Sarah’s smile whenever someone is sharing from their heart—whether it be preaching, singing, sharing their testimony or juggling potbellied pigs. If they are trying to honor Papa God by it, I’m right there alongside them and I make sure they know it by my body language. Everyone can have a ministry of countenance encouragement like this. Even you. It’s such a small thing but truly has ENORMOUS impact. Won’t you consider a commitment to becoming a smile minister? “Encourage one another and build each other up,” (1 Thessalonians 5:11, NIV).
Debora M. Coty is an inspirational speaker and award-winning author of over 40 books, including the bestselling Too Blessed to be Stressed series. Visit with Debora anytime at www.DeboraCoty.com.
and some spontaneous elements allowing for the Holy Spirit. On any given Sunday, you can expect 175-200 adults with a children’s ministry hosting walking toddlers to 11-yearolds. The times are 9 and 11:15 a.m. on Sundays. “I’ve led worship in Catholic churches and on a garbage dump. I have traveled around The Resting Place is a nondenominational church the United States and to eight that is passionate about Jesus and saturating the different nations—being on the city with His love. different stages exposed me to Pastor Caleb Hyers, a third-generthe diversity of the Church,” said ation Tampa native, launched The Pastor Hyers. “Seeing the diversity in Resting Place in August 2018. For a the Body of Christ has given me a few months, the nondenominational perspective that everyone is valuable, church gathered in Tampa’s Letter and we might not agree on everything, Carrier Hall before purchasing and but Jesus thinks that every single permoving into its current building on son is to die for.” Hobbs Rd., near Falkenburg Rd. The Resting Place exists “for the Growing up in the church and lost to be found, the found to be free spending 15 years as a worship pasand for peace to reign in our city.” tor in various churches, Pastor Hyers Pastor Hyers’ passion is to empower felt called to plant The Resting Place. the worshipers of God to believe the He left his worship leader position at finished work of Christ and express GrowLife Church in Wesley Chapel. His resurrection life. The Resting Place’s name was In addition to Sunday gatherings, inspired by a Bible verse. during the week, the church holds a “In Hebrews 4:11, the traditional young adult ministry on Mondays at 7 translation says, ‘strive to enter His p.m. and a youth program for grades rest’—the rest of the new covenant 6-12 on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. from Jesus’ finished work,” explained Throughout the year, workshops are Pastor Hyers. “We are entering into held on various biblical topics. rest—the covenant of love by the The church gatherings take place grace of God not by the works of our at 217 Hobbs St., Unit 106 in Tampa. hands but by His work.” For more information, visit church’s The church gatherings are casual website at www.TRPTampa.com or with contemporary worship, including call 402-8086. a full band, teachings from the Bible
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Unforgettable Cirque Musica Presents Holiday Wishes
Calvary Church Mission Center Built To Serve The Community
Staff Report
By Amanda Boston
Its food pantry, Community Cupboard, was first established in 1979 as a way to bless those who are less fortunate. To receive food, a person must show identification and proof of residency for any of the following cities: Ruskin, Apollo Beach, Sun City, Gibsonton, Parish, The worship building was the piece completing the Calvary Wimauma or Balm. Church Mission Center. Pastor Rose continued, “The For more than money from the 50 years, Calvary thrift store Church has been funds the serving the Community SouthShore comCupboard—it’s munity. In one of the September, largest food Calvary relocated pantries in to its new building Hillsborough that resides on the County. On same property as Tuesdays, we its Angel’s Attic thrift store and have roughly 500 families who come and Community Cupboard food pantry. get food. This ministry is what Calvary is For 15 years, the Calvary Church all about. We want to make a difference Mission Center has been a work in in the community and not just be an progress. With plans to start construction island on Sunday mornings.” of the main building in 2008, it had to put Volunteers exclusively operate both everything on hold after the market Calvary’s Community Cupboard and crashed. Angel’s Attic. The food pantry is open “Angel’s Attic and Community from 8:30-11 a.m. every Tuesday. Cupboard were the first things put on the Volunteers are needed throughout the property,” said Rob Rose, the associate week to distribute, lift heavy boxes and pastor at Calvary. “Calvary wanted to pick up donated food items. November is show the community that we are a one of the busiest times for its food pantry resource and open to everyone.” as it distributes the necessary food items With Calvary’s rising attendance, the for a traditional Thanksgiving meal. Its completion of the new worship center Angel’s Attic thrift store also needs volunwas not a day too soon. The worship teers. The store is open Wednesday center is 20,000 sq. ft., and with its flexithrough Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 Noon. ble seating, it can accommodate crowds To get involved or for more informaas large as 850 people or be transformed tion, visit www.calvaryalive.org or call into a recreational space. An entire wing 645-1305. Calvary’s Mission Center is of the building is dedicated to children located at 1250 E. College Ave. in and youth, including a special needs minRuskin. istry.
Cirque Musica will be presented for one night at AMALIE Arena on Wednesday, December 18 at 7 p.m.
Cirque Musica will once again be presented at AMALIE Arena for one spectacular performance on Wednesday, December 18 at 7 p.m. Cirque Musica’s Holiday Wishes brings a holiday story to life in a full theatrical cirque event for the entire family. It will feature the world-renowned cast of Cirque Musica with all of your favorite holiday hits performed live by a full symphony orchestra. Audiences will be amazed by the acrobats, aerialists, hilarious hijinks and holiday cheer. The show blends the spellbinding grace and daredevil athleticism of today’s greatest circus performers with the sensory majesty of a symphony orchestra. Cirque Musica Presents Holiday Wishes is the perfect opportunity for
the entire family to experience great holiday music while enjoying an edge of your seat circus experience. Holiday Wishes do come true with Cirque Musica. According to Raleigh Triangle Arts & Entertainment, “The music was spectacular, the acrobatic feats bordered on unbelievable, and the show was not lacking in humor. This show totally got me in the Christmas spirit.” Cirque Musica is produced by TCG Entertainment, which is the industry leader in the creation, production, book and marketing of live entertainment productions and events. Visit www.CirqueMusica.com, Facebook or Twitter for more information. Tickets are now on sale and cost $25, $35, $55 and $85, depending on seating. You can get them at the ReliaQuest Ticket Office at AMALIE Arena, Ticketmaster outlets and at Ticketmaster.com. You can also order by phone by calling 800-7453000. Upgrade your ticket for an exclusive Cirque Musica Holiday Wishes VIP experience for only $50 for adults and $30 for kids under 12. Prices do not include facility fees or service charges. Advanced parking passes are available at Ticketmaster.com or the ticket office. AMALIE Arena is located at 401 Channelside Dr. in Tampa. Visit amaliearena.com or call 301-2500 for more information.
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813-714-8562
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Page 7 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019
list. It will be held on the church grounds at 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico. Vendor spaces are still available. Register at www.hiepiscopal.org. Call 689-3130 during church hours.
Your Monthly Catch Local Happenings In Our Community Grace Community Holiday Market
Shop for Christmas gifts at the Grace Community Church open-air Holiday Market on Saturday, November 9 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission is free for shoppers. The market will feature handmade jewelry, handcrafted wood pieces, home décor, on-trend clothing and dozens of other products. Guests can also build their own teddy bears, enjoy lunch and cool off with shaved ice. It is sponsored by the Women of Grace. Booth rental fees support missions in the community. The church is located at 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia. For more information and a vendor application, visit www.graceholidaymarket.com.
Annual Food Drive To Help More Than 200 Local Families
St. Vincent de Paul’s Thanksgiving and Christmas Annual Food Drive will take place at St. Stephen Catholic Church. Over 200 local area families are serviced over the holidays. You can bring the requested food items and gift cards in a reusable cloth bag to the St. Vincent de Paul trailer that is parked in front of St. Stephen Church. A donation bag can be dropped off through Sunday, November 3 or on any Friday between 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the
SVdP portable behind the Family Life Center, or you can call 3256440 to schedule a time. The church is located at 10118 St. Stephen Cir. in Riverview. Each bag needs to contain the following: two cans of green beans; two cans of corn; two cans kidney, pinto or black beans; one can of cranberry sauce; one medium size can gravy (chicken or turkey—no glass jars); one regular size box of stuffing; one regular size box instant mashed potatoes; one can of chicken broth; one medium size can of yams; one boxed cake mix; one can of icing; one twopound bag of rice; one box macaroni and cheese; and a $15 grocery gift card to purchase meat.
Holy Innocents’ Fall Whistle Stop Craft Show
Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church is hosting its 12th annual Fall Whistle Stop Craft Show on Saturday, November 2 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This is a fun family event with more than 70 vendors, showcasing and selling unique arts and crafts, novelties and baked goods for the fall and winter seasons. Shop for special Christmas gifts for that hard-to-shop-for person on your
Knights Of Columbus Patriotism Spirit Week
The Knights of Columbus Monsignor John F. Scully Assembly #3418 of Riverview is sponsoring a Patriotism Day Celebration on Wednesday night, November 6, at Bloomingdale Pizza from 4-9 p.m. The evening will feature patriotic songs led by a local Men’s Ensemble and guest speaker Kelly Kowall of My Warrior’s Place in Ruskin. Bloomingdale Pizza will donate 10 percent of all sales to Assembly #3418, including takeout, when you mention ‘Knights for Vets’ from Monday, November 4 through Thursday, November 7. There will also be a 50/50 contest and a raffle for Baskets of Cheer and other great prizes on Wednesday, November 6. Proceeds will be used by the Assembly to support the VAVS (VA Hospital Veteran’s Services) and My Warrior’s Place in Ruskin. The K of C Monsignor John F. Scully Assembly #3418 sponsors meals at the James A. Haley Fisher House for the family of loved ones who are patients at
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION DIRECTORY
the hospital, provides Thanksgiving meals for veterans, provides personal hygiene products for inpatients at the VA Hospital and regularly donates books, magazines, DVDs and CDs to the VA Patient Library, which has been valued at over $6,000 for the past three years. Additionally, the Assembly is a regular supporter of My Warrior’s Place. Visit mywarriorsplace.org. Bloomingdale Pizza is located at 4334 Bell Shoals Rd. in Valrico. Remember to say ‘Knights for Vets’ when you order. If you can’t attend but want to help, you can send a check payable to K of C Assembly #3418 to Sir Knight Mark Lovejoy, 6951 Cohasset Cir., Riverview, FL 33578.
Flea Market
Brandon Christian Church, located at 910 Bryan Rd. in Brandon (on the corner of Bryan Rd. and Lumsden Rd.), is hosting its much-anticipated annual indoor flea market on Saturday, November 9, from 8 a.m.-to 1 p.m. For more information, contact the church office at 6894021.
Arts And Crafts Fair
An Arts and Crafts Fair will be held on Saturday, November 2 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Redeemer Lutheran Church, located at 701 Valley Forge Blvd. in Sun City Center. Thirty vendors will participate and a wide variety of handcrafted items and fine arts will be available. There will also be a bake sale, and ‘Farmer Pete’ will have fruits and vegetables. Admission is free. For more information, call 634-1292.
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Learn more about how to advertise your school in the Christian Voice education directory! Contact Trisha Becker at tbecker@ospreyobserver.com
Page 8 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019
Veterans And Dogs Get A Second Chance Together With K9 Partners For Patriots
By Taylor Wells
With over purpose and commit20 veterans ment. committing sui“These dogs are cide each day much more than a pet; because of these dogs are a bridge post-traumatic to get them into a better stress disorder position in life,” said (PTSD), trauGregg Laskoski, the matic brain communications director injury (TBI) of K9 P4P. and military K9 P4P helps not sexual trauma only veterans, but also (MST), many dogs that have been of them abandoned, mistreated need help or neglected. Taken from with getting shelters and rescues through after confirming they can Mary Peter, CMDT and K9 P4P’s founder help veterans with their everyday and CEO, with a K9 P4P service dog. lives. K9 PTSD, TBI or MST by Partners for Patriots, Inc. (K9 P4P) has alerting positively to adrenaline levels rismade this its mission, and it has helped ing from stress, each dog can get a new tremendously. chance at life. In 2013, Mary Peter, Certified Master With 786 veterans applied to proDog Trainer and K9 P4P’s founder and gram, 334 members, 224 graduates and CEO, was teaching classes at Stillwater 132 dogs rescued, the nonprofit has Dog Training, Inc. when she noticed vethelped hundreds. Its first participant, Ron erans were enrolling but not engaging in Flaville, now the COO and a veteran liaithe classes or soon dropping out. son, has made significant progress. Realizing the need for a service dog train“He has done so well that his dog, ing program focused on helping veterans Sophia, doesn’t have to come with him like them, she opened K9 P4P. every single day to work. Sophia is someK9 P4P is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dediwhat semiretired, is how he puts it,” said cated to aiding pre and post-9/11 veterLaskoski. ans with a 19-week training course where To help K9 P4P, you can become a they will train their dogs at the organizafoster caregiver and share your home tion’s location, rather than wait a couple with future service dogs until they can years and spend thousands of dollars on start training. Visit www.k9partnersforpatria pre-trained service dog. There are neiots.com. K9 P4P is located at 15322 ther waiting lists nor charges to veterans. Aviation Loop Dr. in Brooksville and is By training their own service dogs, open Mon-Thurs from 8:30 a.m.-3:00 veterans can gain a renewed sense of p.m.
The Mighty Miracles Of Jesus Jesus Walks On Water
By Kelly Wise Valdes
During the course of His ministry, Jesus performed more than 40 miracles, including healing the sick, changing the natural elements of nature and even raising people from the dead. A miracle is considered an event that occurs outside the bounds of natural law. Each month we will take a closer look at one of His miracles to understand the depth of His love for us. Understanding the miracles of Jesus can change your life, and it all begins with believing through faith. The miracle of Jesus walking on water was recorded in three of the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark and John) and came directly after His miraculous feeding of the 5,000 people with only five loaves of bread and two fish. But, only in the Book of Matthew do we learn that Peter also walked on water with Jesus. This particular miracle of Jesus walking on water, more than any other miracle, convinced the disciples that He was indeed the Son of God. After feeding the crowd, Jesus sent His disciples to their boat while He said goodbye to the thousands of people. He told the disciples to get in the boat and head to the other side of the Sea of Galilee. Jesus then went up on the mountain to pray. While Jesus was praying, His disciples were struggling against a powerful storm. Many of the disciples were experienced fishermen, but they were struggling to make headway against the strong wind. Seeing their predicament, Jesus headed toward them and defied the natural laws of physics when he simply walked on water, through the wind and the waves.
This all happened very late at night, before daylight. When the disciples saw Jesus walking toward them on the water in the darkness, they didn’t realize what was happening, and they thought they saw a ghost. They were terrified of the figure approaching them in the middle of the sea. But immediately, Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.” Peter quickly responded, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.” Jesus said, “Come,” and Peter stepped onto the water without sinking and started walking on water toward Jesus. But then the strong wind distracted him, and Peter panicked. His shaken faith caused him to start sinking into the rough seas. As he was sinking, Peter called out for Jesus to help. Jesus immediately stretched out His hand to Peter. As He did so, Jesus asked Peter, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” Jesus and Peter climbed back into the boat, and suddenly the storm stopped, and the seas calmed. We all experience rough seas and feel like we are on our own at times. The Lord may not come at the time we think He should come. The disciples had been struggling in the rough seas for quite some time before they saw Jesus. Often we fear the difficult experiences of life such as illness, loss of loved ones and financial adversities only to discover that these experiences can bring us closer to Jesus. As Peter learned, our fears can make us begin to doubt God’s presence. At times like that, we must keep our eyes on Jesus and remain faithful in Him.
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Page 9 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019
Tampa YMCA Invites Community To 5th Annual Goody Goody Turkey Gobble
Many Find Restoration At Multilingual Church In Valrico
On under. First place Thanksgiving prizes will be given morning, the in age groups as Tampa well. On-site race Metropolitan Area results will be availYMCA invites able. members of the All funds raised community to parhelp to support ticipate in the Fifth LIVEAnnual Goody STRONG® at Goody Turkey the YMCA. Gobble 5K, 8K and Lalita Llerena, Registration is now available for One-Mile the communithe Fifth Annual Goody Goody Run/Walk. The cations director Turkey Gobble 5K, 8K and OneMile Run/Walk. event is sponsored for the Tampa by the award-winning Goody Goody Metropolitan Restaurant. Area YMCA, said, "This is a great way to The family-friendly event starts at 7 give back with family and friends while a.m. in front of Amalie Arena located at burning some calories before the big 401 Channelside a Drive in Tampa. Thanksgiving feast. Last year, more than Goody Goody, as its title sponsor, will be 4,000 participants helped raise more than providing free breakfast to all who partici$66,000 to help cancer survivors.” pate in the race. LIVESTRONG® is a 12-week proRegistration is available by visiting gram, offered at no cost to people affectwww.runsignup.com. The cost to particied by cancer. It provides a safe, supportpate in the 5K is $30, $35 for the 8K and ive environment to participate in physical $15 for the One-Mile Run/Walk until and social activities. The program helps Thursday, October 31. Prices increase by cancer survivors fight fatigue, boost self$5 thereafter, except for the Run/Walk. esteem and improve strength and Participants receive chip-timed number endurance. In addition to physical benebuds for the 5K and 8K, a Dri-FIT T-shirt fits, the program also focuses on the and finisher medals for all participants. emotional well-being of survivors and There is no on-site registration or their families by providing a supportive pickup on race day. All packets must be community where they can connect durpicked up prior to race day. ing treatment and beyond. New this year, the Tampa YMCA has Llerena said, “We would not be able a new full color finisher medal. to offer this program at no cost to cancer Additionally, 8K and 5K participants will survivors without donations and fundraisreceive gender specific shirts. Prizes will ers like the Annual Goody Goody Turkey be awarded for first place overall Gobble.” male/female adult and for youth 9 and Visit www.tampaymca.org.
For more than also has a dedicated a decade, prayer team that Ministerio Casa prays for the homes Restauración and families in the (MCR), or the local community. English translation, Pastor Vazquez Ministry House of said, “We have seen Restoration, has addicts delivered and been a refuge for set free—now on fire those seeking for God. We’ve witrestoration and a nessed reconciliation relationship with of marriages after 20 MCR is a diverse, multicultural church located in Valrico. Jesus. With a misyears and families sion to ‘reach, restore, equip and guide,’ with children being totally restored and Pastor Jose Vazquez and his wife growing in the Lord.” Marianna started MCR in the living room Kathleen Nicosia, MCR’s outreach of their Valrico home. coordinator, said, “I am a living testimony From broken marriages to drug of what the Ministry House of Restoration addictions, the husband and wife team has done in my life. I have seen the ministers for those seeking an authentic hand of God move so mightily.” relationship with Jesus Christ through Nicosia continued, “I was delivered love and accountability. In May 2008, from addiction, and MCR embraces the MCR left the confines of the Vazquez liv- discipleship and mentoring aspects of ing room to share a space with Sonlife ministry. They were readily available to Baptist Church. The church holds servic- actually guide me as I was plucked out es on Sunday at 1 p.m. with the service of the world and replanted into God’s translated side by side in both English Kingdom.” and Spanish. On Tuesday evenings, MCR recognizes that the quality of Bible study is held at 7:30 p.m. relationships it has with its church family “The heartbeat of MCR family is our is more important than the number of passion and commitment to lead all members. Nevertheless, it hopes to walks of life into a true and genuine eventually have its own space so it can encounter with our Lord Jesus Christ,” expand and change even more lives. explained Pastor Vazquez. “Where they Nicosia said, “At MCR, we always can learn to grow and experience His say you come as a visitor, you leave as a amazing love and not another empty reli- friend and when you return, you return gion.” as family.” The diverse church is passionate For more information, visit about helping the lost find Jesus. Its www.mcr4you.org or search ‘mcr4you’ members minister weekly at a local inpa- on Facebook. MCR is located at 2020 E. tient drug treatment center for women. It Lumsden Rd. in Valrico.
By Kathy L. Collins
By Amanda Boston
Page 10 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019
Sydney Baptist Church Transitioned Into First Call For First Responders This year on April 7, Sydney Baptist Church finished transitioning into its new identity, First Call, ‘A Unique Church for Extraordinary People.’ The 110-year-old church voted in January to change from its traditional church model into its new model for a A police officer greater focus on its speaking before a mission to help the congregation in thousands of first First Call. responders and their families in our community. Senior Chaplain (Dr.) Daniel Middlebrooks, who is a retired military chaplain, noticed that some of Hillsborough County’s first responders wouldn’t go to church because they believed they didn’t fit in, that no one could understand their experiences or that their lives were too messy. Wanting to offer a safe place where they can be around people who understand them, decompress, express their thoughts and heal, Chaplain Middlebrooks was inspired to form First Call. “It’s a growing congregation of first responders, their families and the community that, deeply, are devoted to taking care of them,” said Chaplain Middlebrooks. “There are a lot of great churches that take care of the community; what our primary target and focus is; is to take care of those who take care of our community.”
By Taylor Wells
To accommodate the schedules of first responders, First Call altered its service times. Its services and messages are also designed with them in mind, focusing on personal resilience, spiritual growth, leadership development and the readiness of daily development for putting on the armor of God. The church began its transition by installing three statues, called the Three Guardians, in front of a cross, which was built at the church’s beginning. Each statue represents a different kind of first responder. The left statue depicts law enforcement, in the middle is military and on the right is fire and rescue. Through these statues, First Call acknowledges and celebrates all first responders in our community. According to Chaplain Middlebrooks, by standing at the cross, not only do the statues represent the congregation First Call is reaching out to, they also remind us that the foot of the cross is level and that all of us need to understand what it means to live under grace as well as live that grace. First Call is located at 1510 Cre Rd. in Dover. For more information, visit firstcallsbc.com, call 652-8178 or email Chaplain Middlebrooks at chaplain@firstcallsbc.com.
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Favorite Things Sweepstakes Offers Special Rolling Pin Early Bird Prize-Big Green Egg
By Marie Gilmore
or fill out the entry form and send in by mail, fax or email. Last year, more than 1,000 local residents entered the campaign and ONE lucky winner walked away with a prize package worth more than $2,000.
Early Bird Prizes will include a Big Green Egg from Rolling Pin, tickets to Busch Gardens Christmas Town and more. Good luck, and thank you for shopping local and reading your Osprey Observer Community Newspaper! Managing Editor Marie Gilmore
e rand Priz year’s G Christmas t s la n o wart w in time for the Alyce Ste st Valrico’s kes drawing ju liday. Ho sweepsta
For five years, Osprey Observer newspapers has been partnering with local retailers to publish the Holiday Favorite Things Sweepstakes and gift guide, and this year promises to be one of the best yet! This year, we've partnered with our friends at Rolling Pin to offer an early bird prize of a Big Green Egg Grill! We are so excited to have such a great prize for our readers! The campaign is called, the Osprey Observer, A Few of Our Favorite Things, and we have gone to local businesses and
asked them to give us ideas for a few of the top items available this holiday season. From now until midDecember, we will be collecting Our Favorite Things all throughout the community and putting them together in one giant gift basket that will be given out in a Sweepstakes for our readers. “We have such great success and we are excited to share some of this year's treasures from our local small businesses with our readers,” explained Assignment Editor Michelle Colesanti. To enter, email Sweepstakes to contest@ospreyobserver.com
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Corbin’s Coin, Bundt Cake Tower And Mainstream Boutique Mac Jeans Corbin’s Stamp & Coin Is Your Source For Treasured Family Heirlooms If you are looking for the perfect gift - maybe for a family with a new baby or to celebrate a momentous occasion, a special coin may be the perfect keepsake? Start a new family tradition by commemorating the Christmas season each year. Holiday coin Gift Basket Item: collections Corbin’s Holiday are the perSilver Coin fect way. Value: One- ounce $29.95 silver coins are available for $29.95 (plus tax) in a gift box or also as an ornament that can be displayed. The many varieties include Baby's First Christmas, Oh Holy Night, Season’s Greetings, Santa and other coins. The coins come either in an AirTite capsule with a gift box or in an ornament holder. The ornament holder does not fit into the gift box. Corbin’s Coins is located at 209 N. Kings Ave. in Brandon and is
open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call 6513266.
CORBIN’S
Stamp & Coin Nothing Bundt Cakes Are Perfect Desserts To Add To Your Holiday Meals Nothing Bundt Cakes creates cakes using handcrafted recipes that not only remind you of home, but also open you to a new world. At Nothing Bundt Cakes, you get real eggs, butter and cream cheese in every cake. Not only do these cakes look great, they taste even better. These are great holiday gifts to take to all of your holiday Gift Basket Item: events and for Holiday Bundlet all of your family Tower gatherings. Value: It is located $62.50 at 11238 Sullivan St. in Winthrop Town Centre. Everything you need to
make your party complete is available. The hardest part is choosing from the 10 delicious varieties, including a ‘featured’ flavor. Hours are Monday to Friday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit www.nothingbundtcakes.com or call 409-2394 to place your order ahead of time.
Mainstream Boutique You can visit Mainstream Boutique, a retail clothing store, in Winthrop to get some great ideas on gifts as well as attire for the holiday season. Make your head-to-toe purchases here where everything is new. It carries clothing, jewelry, accessories and shoes. Adorable outfits are available for every age group. The exclusive brand of jeans called
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By Michelle Colesanti Gift Basket Item: Mac Jean Value: $80
Mac and Me is available. Designed by a woman, the line is multigenerational and fits all body types. Buttery soft; fitting in all the right places; stretching with you, but don’t stretch out. Another popular brand in stock is Liverpool. All jewelry is handmade and made in the USA. Some of the jewelry is from local and are one-ofa-kind pieces. Other services offered are One on One Style sessions, Ladies Night Out and shopping for a cause. Mainstream Boutique is located in Winthrop at 11231 Sullivan St. in Riverview. Hours are Monday to Friday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 Noon-4 p.m. Call 643-0090.
Rolling Pin Big Green Egg, Full Grown Girl Shop & Santa At Pixel Portraits Great Gift Ideas and Classes Help Make Rolling Pin A Great Stop For Holiday Gift Needs If you are stuck coming up with creGift Basket ative gift Item: ideas, a Big Green Egg visit to Mini Max: 13Rolling Pin inch grill diamEmporium eter will give you Total Value: plenty of $599 ideas to help you find something for every chef in your life. Rolling Pin also offers cooking classes for all types of
By Michelle Colesanti
meals. It is also Brandon’s only Platinum Dealer for the Big Green Egg, the ultimate cooking experience. Rolling Pin is located at 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon. Call 653-2418 or visit http://rollingpinonline.com/ for more information.
Full Grown Girl Airstream Shop Opens In Winthrop Owner Cynthia Atkins recently opened a new gift shop featuring handmade items, candles, jewelry, beauty and bath products, baby items, home décor and vintage finds. No matter your taste or style, you will find something for your favorite family members and friends. Full Grown Girl is located in a vintage Airstream trailer at 11267 Winthrop Main St. in Riverview. The hours are Gift Basket Wednesday to Saturday Item: from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. For $50 Gift Card more information, call 629Total Value: 1124, visit fullgrowngirl.com $50 or find it on Facebook at Full Grown Girl.
Enter the Sweepstakes to win a prize basket of items from The Favorite Things Shop Local Campaign. Why would you like to win the Shop Local Sweepstakes Basket?
Name: Address: Phone: Email: Community: Enter to win online at contest@opreyobserver.com, fax to 657-4469 or mail to 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico, FL 33596.
Also, enter by email at contest@ospreyobserver.com
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McAuley Jewelry Is The Place For Gifts
By Michelle Colesanti
McAuley Fine Reserve Your Space Jewelry Is A Gem With Santa At Pixel In The Community Portraits Make this season Pixel Portraits is merry and bright for more than a photo someone you love by shoot; it is an experidesigning something ence. It specializes in unique to surprise family, maternity, baby, them with. McAuley children, couples Fine Jewelry will engagement, glamour, help you plan your business headshots custom-made Gift Basket and more. For the piece of jewelry. Item: holiday season, Previously loved Pixel Portraits will Portrait Session pieces of jewelry Value: hold special Santa are also available. $100 Minis Portrait sesJewelry and watch sions on select days: repairs are also November 2, 3, 10, 11, 16 and 17. done on premises. It also will purThis includes a 20 minute interactive chase your scrap gold. session, 11x14 framed art print and McCauley Fine Jewelry is locatpersonalized studio viewing for ed on Oakfield Drive, in the Atlantic $100. Village Plaza, Kings Ave. & Oakfield Pixel Portraits is located at 930 Dr. W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. It is open from Tuesday to Friday Regular hours are Monday, Tuesday, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday Wednesday and Friday from from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday Call 689-8124 or visit Gift Basket www.mcauleyfinejewelry.com. from 9 a.m.-5 p.m and Item: Sunday from 11 a.m.-5 Fine Jewelry p.m. It is closed on Value: Thursdays. TBD Please call or visit online to schedule an appointment: 657-7121 or www.mypixelportraits.com.
Great Gift Ideas And Cooking Classes Help Make Rolling Pin A Great Choice For Giving A visit to Rolling Pin Emporium will give you plenty of ideas to help you find something for every chef in your life. If you have holiday parties to attend this year, Rolling Pin also has a great selection of special wines and decorative holiday gifts. Do you like to cook—or just like to eat? Rolling Pin also offers cooking classes for all types of meals. Some of the classes are hands-on and some are demonstration-only. Either way, you get to enjoy a great meal. You can take classes to learn about new foods you have not yet experimented with. The classes also make for a great date night, and the classes are a great gift that anybody would enjoy receiving. Stop by and browse the gourmet retail store’s extensive collection of classic and unique kitchenware. You will find everything from barware, bakeware, aprons, towels and mitts, coffees and teas, cookware, electrics, gadgets, gifts for entertaining, knives and cutting boards, outdoor cooking and more. According to owner, Chef Dave West, “We are the area’s licensed retailer for Frozen 2 (the movie) bakeware, as well as a huge selection for all holiday baking needs - cookie cutters, bake essential and decorating tools.”
Staff Report
If you can’t decide on what you’d like to give, gift cards and gift certificates for both retail and cooking classes are available. Rolling Pin Emporium is Brandon’s Premier Platinum Big Green Egg Dealer. “The new Expander System is hot, as is the Egg Genius Remote Temperature Controller,” according to West. The all-new MiniMax Big Green Egg is proof that great things come in small packages. This EGG is the first to arrive with its own transportation in the form of a sturdy, easy-to-grip carrier. With a value of $599, this year’s special gift giveaway is the MiniMax. It is perfect for camping, poolside and for tailgating at the ballgame. It is also at home in award-winning restaurants. Top chefs love exploring the EGG’s versatility and discovering the amazing flavors produced in such a compact and high-performance package. The MiniMax is built to perform and is ready to travel to wherever your culinary interests take you. Rolling Pin Emporium is open for private events too. Rolling Pin is located at 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon. Call 653-2418 or visit http://rollingpinonline.com/ for more information.
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Page 15 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019
Holistic Health And Wellness Coach Offers Community A Healthy Lifestyle
Start Day At FishHawk Turkey Trot
By Michelle Colesanti
By Libby Hopkins
Webster’s selves during the postDictionary defines partum and early moth‘uprooted’ as ‘Being erhood transition.” pulled up by the Schuman’s journey roots’ or ‘To be disstarted in 2011 when placed from a tradishe realized there had tional habitat.’ To to be a more proactive Alexa Schuman, alternative to wellness ‘uprooted’ means ‘A than the current state of movement; approach that had a movement toward become normal to socia more enjoyable ety. life.’ “I believe these Schuman is a essential components holistic health and of wellness are vital to wellness coach a balanced, mindful Alexa Schuman created Uprooted life. That’s how who lives in the Wellness to share her passion for Uprooted Wellness FishHawk area. the wellness movement. To learn She is also the more, visit Schuman’s website at began. I look at the owner of Uprooted www.uprootedwellness.com or call current state of our her at 454-2951. Wellness. health and want to be a “I’m a certified part of the solution,” integrative nutrition Schuman said. “I offer health coach, holispersonal health coachtic wellness educaing, which is the best tor and plant-based way to create successcooking instructor,” ful nutrition and lifestyle Schuman said. “I modifications.” absolutely love Her programs are what I do. I am designed to provide passionate about education and support. shifting the per“During this time, spective around we work through all of health and empowthe aspects of wellering women to be ness, navigate the their best selves world of contradictory through mindful nutrition and health eating, conscious advice to explore what living and natural truly works for the indihealing.” vidual as they integrate She specializes small, gradual and susin women’s health tainable changes,” and helping them Schuman said. “The find balance, as most effectiveness well as connecting occurs when I am able them back to their to utilize the recomintuition. She also mendations from and helps families intepartner with their physigrate new, positive cian.” diet and lifestyle Wellness changes. Workshops are “I love supporting mothers, workdesigned to educate guests on variing together to create a balanced ous aspects of maintaining healthy nourishing foundation for babies, tod- eating habits and how to integrate dlers and children, as well as involvthis lifestyle into their own. ing the whole family,” Schuman said. “Topics range from mindful eat“It’s never too early to cultivate a ing, conscious living, everyday modisense of being healthy in all areas of fications for balance, to work-life life. This role has allowed me to supstress reduction, movement and port women in optimizing their fertilibeyond,” Schuman said. ty, nurturing the body for a healthy Visit www.uprootedwellness.com pregnancy and nourishing themor call 454-2951.
The annual FishHawk Turkey Trot 5K, 10K, 1M and Fun Run will take place on Thanksgiving morning. All proceeds will benefit Seeds of Hope.
FishHawk’s Most Wanted Turkey will make its annual appearance at this year’s FishHawk Turkey Trot. He will be there to greet you and your family, as you participate in the festivities, which will take place Thanksgiving morning, November 28, at the Publix Plaza on 5668 Fishhawk Crossing Blvd. in Lithia. Come wobble with the turkey before you gobble the big meal. The race will support the Seeds of Hope Food Bank, which provides food assistance for the community and is primarily funded by the annual Turkey Trot.
Seeds of Hope President Leda Eaton said, “I love that so many start their Thanksgiving with us at the turkey trot. It’s a great pre-Thanksgiving activity that the whole family can come to and have fun. It’s the ultimate feel good race.” The chip-timed 5K costs $30 ($35 on race day) and will begin at 8 a.m. The chip-timed 10K will also begin at 8 a.m. and costs $35 ($40 on race day). If you wish to run the 5K untimed, the cost is $25 ($30 on race day) and will begin at 8:05 a.m. The 1M and 250-yard mini run will begin at 9:15 a.m. and costs $20. There will be free crafts and medals for the kids that participate in the Fun Run. Packet pickup is Wednesday, November 27 from 12 Noon-7 p.m. at the Palmetto Club, 17004 Dorman Rd. in Lithia. Race day registration will begin at 6:30 a.m. in the Publix parking lot. All turkey participants are encouraged to arrive an hour before their scheduled race. A 2019 Turkey Trot Ornament will also be available to support Seeds of Hope. To register, visit www.eventbrite.com and search FishHawk Turkey Trot.
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Page 16 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019
Page 16 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019
Celebrate God’s Bounty This Thanksgiving
By Kelly Wise Valdes
As November approaches, many of us are busy planning and preparing for the big Thanksgiving dinner. Any gathering, big or small, surrounded by love or friendship, brings us closer to God when we fellowship together in the spirit of thankfulness. Although we tend to focus on the food during the Thanksgiving holiday, fellowship in God’s love is always the most remembered and most precious nourishment. Our homes should be a positive source of life, and we all should try to check our perfectionism at the door. Many cookbooks provide recipes for our meals but consider looking beyond the meal and feed your mind, body and spirit this Thanksgiving.
Come to the Table: Food, Fellowship, and a Celebration of God's Bounty By Benita Long
God intends for us to enjoy his blessings in abundance. Come To The Table is a threefold feast: For the body, there are hearty and delectable recipes. For the mind, there are thought-provoking quotations from great poets and thinkers. And for the spirit, stunning photographs and inspirational scriptures transport you to another realm.
Cooking with the Bible: Recipes for Biblical Meals By Anthony F. Chiffolo
This faith-based book provides recipes and complete menus for 18 meals from the Bible. Meals range from Passover to the story of Joseph dining with his brothers and King David's nuptials. Each chapter has a menu, scripture, description of its historical and cultural significance and specific recipes with a discussion of preparation and serving in biblical times.
Cooking with the Saints By Fernando Flores, Sandy Greeley
From traditional Cottage Pie on St. Patrick's Day to Basque Lamb Stew on the feast of St. Ignatius Loyola, the delicious recipes in this unique cookbook will excite your senses, awaken in you a greater love for the saints and bring godly festivity into your home. Historical saint biographies accompany dishes tied to the liturgical feasts of the Church.
A Continual Feast: A Cookbook to Celebrate the Joys of Family & Faith throughout the Christian Year By Evelyn Vitz
This amazing cookbook is full of wonderful recipes and ideas that are drawn from many Christian traditions. It includes suggestions about when and why these dishes might be served. It contains more than 275 recipes. The book also shares rituals that strengthen family bonds and enrich the significance of the day-today events of our lives.
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Page 17 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019
BAPTIST
Bay Life Church 1017 Kingsway Ave., Brandon (813) 661-3696 Bell Shoals Baptist - Brandon 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 Congregación Hispana 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 ext. 242 Bell Shoals Baptist - Apollo Beach 408 Apollo Beach Blvd., Apollo Beach (813) 641-2222 Bell Shoals Baptist - Palm River 5415 Palm River Rd.,Tampa (813) 621-2058 Bell Shoals Baptist - Riverview 9990 South Hwy 301, Suite 10024, Riverview (813) 689-4229 First Baptist Church of Brandon 216 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon (813) 689-1204 First Baptist Church of Bloomingdale 3303 Bloomingdale Ave.,Valrico (813) 689-3847 First Baptist Church of Gibsonton 9912 Indiana St., Gibsonton (813) 677-1301 First Baptist Church of Ruskin 820 College Ave. W., Ruskin (813) 645-6439 FishHawk Fellowship 15326 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia, (813) 655-7431 Grace Baptist Church 2909 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-7190 Journey Church 415 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon (813) 699-8262 Shiloh Baptist Church 1104 Cason St., Plant City (813) 752-8345 CATHOLIC Nativity Catholic Church 705 E Brandon Blvd., Brandon (813) 681-4608 St. Anne Catholic Church 106 11th Ave. NE, Ruskin (813) 645-1714
St. Matthews Anglican Church 10701 Bloomingdale Avenue, Riverview 813-663-0334 St. Stephen Catholic Church 10118 Saint Stephen Circle, Riverview (813) 689-4900 CHURCH OF GOD Boyette Springs Church of God 12114 Boyette Rd., Riverview (813) 671-0086 Plant City Church of God 2103 Mud Lake Rd., Plant City (813) 752-4591 EPISCOPAL Holy Innocents' Episcopal Church 604 N. Valrico Rd., Valrico (813) 689-3130 LUTHERAN Immanuel Lutheran Church 2913 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-1787 Living Savior Lutheran Church 2650 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico (813) 681-2375 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Seffner 1310 South Kingsway Rd., Seffner (813) 689-3513 Grace Community United Methodist Church 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Lithia (813) 661-8858 • info@mygraceumc.com New Hope United Methodist Church 120 N. Knights Ave., Brandon (813) 689-4161 Riverview First United Methodist Church 8002 US Hwy 301., Riverview www.riverviewflumc.org Ruskin United Methodist Church 105 4th Ave. NW, Ruskin (813) 645-1241 South Shore United Methodist Church 11525 Big Bend Rd., Riverview (813) 649-9462 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Calvary Chapel Brandon 1331 Kingsway Rd., Brandon (813) 681-5318 Centerpoint Church 1801 S. Miller Rd., Valrico (813) 689-1906
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Page 18 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019
Live Like You Mean It
The End Of Summer And The Beginning Of Something New
By Kelly Wise Valdes
St. John’s Chapel In The Tower Of London held an all-night vigil in the chapel on the eve of Henry IV's coronation. By 1570, state records were moved to be stored in the chapel. Large presses were installed to help store the documents, the altar was removed and a spiral staircase was installed to allow easier access to the gallery. Despite these alterations and its use as a record office, the importance of the chapel’s architecture was still observed. In fact, author William Ainsworth claimed that part of his motivation for writing his 1840 book The Tower of London; A Historical Romance was influenced by the mystery of St. John’s Chapel. In 1674, workmen were employed in the demolition of a staircase of the White Tower, leading to a horrible discovery. The bones of two children were found, and it (Photo by Amanda Boston) St. John’s Chapel is locat- was believed that the ed inside the White Tower within the Tower of London. remains were of two princes, More Charles V and his brother, the Duke of than 900 years old, the Chapel of St. York. How and why the remains were John has had a unique history as a placed there continue to be under royal chapel and a national record speculation. office. The beautiful and austere In 1858, the new Public Record chapel is situated on the second floor Office was opened in London, and the of the in the Tower of London and is documents were moved out of St. considered one of the finest surviving John’s. The military initially proposed examples of Norman church architecthat the chapel become an army-clothture. ing store, but the intervention of Prince Constructed as part of the tower in Albert ensured that it was returned to the late 11th century, the royal family religious use. Renovation work took intended to use the chapel while in place; a spiral staircase was removed, residence at the Tower of London. and a tile floor was installed. The Recent investigation has shown that chapel was soon opened to the public the chapel was part of the building’s and was used for religious services. original design and was not added as In the winter of 1968, the chapel an afterthought. underwent some further renovations. It is not clear how often the chapel The tile floor was removed (although it was used in its early history, but in can still be seen under the altar) and 1240, Henry III ordered it to be redecreplaced by modern paving. The orated, which included the addition of Victorian altar was also removed and stained glass windows. Eventually, replaced with a modern example, the chapel regained its religious role, which remained until 1998, when the and 1399 saw the first confirmed cere- Victorian altar was located and mony of the Knights of the Bath, who restored to the chapel.
By Derek Maul
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life.” – John 11:25 This morning I am finally beginning to believe that fall has arrived to stay. I’m enjoying coffee on the deck, wearing a light jacket because it’s still only 59 degrees, watching leaves begin to change and fall and taking in deep breaths of deliciously fresh air. Change! You can feel it all around. Spring; summer; fall; winter; spring again. Change is one of the most compelling signs of life. The end of one season is always wrapped up in the beginnings of the next, because ‘the stuff of life’ by definition has to grow and bloom and replicate and cycle through and come to its end in order for something new to be born. Regeneration (the formation of something new) is not the same as reanimation (simply bringing back to life). This time of the year reminds me that God’s way is always New Life— both creation and regeneration. The breath of the Spirit does so much more than promote stasis or maintenance, or even bringing something back from the dead. Because God is in the business of taking the raw material of who we are and regenerating life that is both rooted in what brought us to this point and moving into some-
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thing previously unimagined. Reanimation (what Jesus did with the “formerly dead” Lazarus in John 11) is—essentially—about temporarily winding the clock backward. But resurrection is all about moving forward into what is possible in response to Jesus. “I am the resurrection and the life!” “In Christ there is a new creation!” For regeneration there needs, first, to be an ending. Fall does not just look to winter, but fall is also the raw material of spring. So this is what I wonder, while I am drawing deep breaths and filling my lungs with cool air. “What is going to be regenerated somewhere down the road?” And, “I wonder what— first—is going to have to come to an end?” In love, and because of love – DEREK
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Page 19 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019
Duo Starts Adaptive Bra Business That Brings Comfort & Hope To Cancer Patients
By Karin Davis-Thompson
Katerina those who have had a Rosenberg and mastectomy and use Susan Bonagura are prosthetics. true examples of the Today, the duo has saying “necessity is created 21 styles. the mother of invenNineteen of those styles tion.” When include an insert that Bonagura was diagallows the use of a prosnosed with breast thetic. The bras are covcancer and began ered by several insurance chemotherapy, she carriers, and they are found that many even using overlays over undergarments, the base of the garment to especially bras, no vary the style and look longer met her without comneeds. promising Susan Bonagura and Katerina Rosenberg host pop up shops “The bras on comfort. the area to promote the market felt rough throughout The bras the apparel line they began and irritated my are made after Bonagura’s breast cancer diagnosis. skin,” she said. “It without was a necessity for me, but I couldn’t find underwire and clasps and are designed anything. It was hard.” to stay on the shoulders without the need After sharing her frustration with her to adjust the strap. Sizes range from extra friend, Rosenberg, the two came up with small to 4XL. Most users would purchase an idea—to make adaptive clothing that the same size for the bra as they do for meets the needs of women trying to lead their clothing. normal lives while battling cancer. Bonagura said the response to the “I had the manufacturing background, product has been inspiring and exciting. and we became an LLC in September of Along with online purchases, Pink Lift is last year,” Rosenberg said. set to become a preferred vendor with They started with bras and looked for Moffitt Cancer Center. A hospital in materials that were soft and comfortable. Atlanta is also reviewing Pink Lift and After making a prototype and talking with considering a partnership. other women having the same struggle, “This journey has been amazing,” the two realized they were on to someBonagura said. “We are also talking with thing. a few boutiques and may begin selling They started Pink Lift and worked the bras in stores in October.” with prosthetic specialists to make sure To learn more about the company or their bras were comfortable and suitable to make a purchase online, visit www.pinfor women enduring chemotherapy and klift.biz.
Don’t Miss the
Novemberfest...Continued From Page 1
By Amanda Boston
ing the event. “I have 15 difYou can purferent food booths. chase discountOver the years, ed ride armyou build relationbands ahead of ships, and that’s time from why I continue to Nativity students. volunteer each Additionally, year. What better Sunday’s place can you help Appreciation Day build your church honoring the milthan with your itary, law community?” said enforcement, Stewart. and first responAlexis Redig, ders will offer Nativity’s faith and discounted ride media coordinator, armbands to said, "It never those with ceases to amaze proper idenme how much tification. love for New this Novemberfest our year is surrounding com‘Money munity has.” Mania.’ Redig continInstead of ued, “Seeing the only one greater impact grand prize this family-friendly Aerial view of Novemberfest: An aerial view of cash winner, and fun event has Novemberfest from the 1980s. raffles will on the community be held throughout the event. The is awesome and drives our staff and cash prizes are in the amounts of volunteers to continue to improve the $2,500, $1,000, $750, $500 and Novemberfest experience year after $250 with the grand prize of $5,000 year.” announced on Sunday. More details on the entertainStewart also shared that Shells, ment and the fest schedule can be a local seafood restaurant, is joining found at www.nativitycatholicthis year’s food tent. From traditional church.org/novemberfest. Nativity hamburgers to scratch-made Polish Catholic Church and School are cooking, each year, fest-goers look located at 705 E. Brandon Blvd. in forward to the variety and quality of Brandon. For the latest information, the different food booths. search Novemberfest on Facebook.
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Page 20 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019
Hot Off The Christian News Wire NFL Player Is Fined $7,017 For Wearing ‘Man Of God’ Headband
A New Orleans Saints linebacker, Demario Davis, said he will stop wearing a 'Man of God' headband after being fined by the NFL. Davis wore a headband with the words 'Man of God' in the first three weeks of the season before the NFL noticed and fined him $7,017. League policy prohibits 'personal messages' on the uniform. A second violation would have resulted in a fine roughly double that amount: $14,037. Davis is vocal about his faith. His Twitter and Instagram bios read: 'Servant of Christ.' He's also the founder of the Devoted Dreamers Foundation, a faith-based organization for inner-city children. He received plenty of support on social media as well as pleas for him to continue wearing it, although he eventually decided not to do it again. “Of course you don't want to be fined,” Davis told the newspaper. “Nobody wants to lose money, but I think any time that the conversation about God is brought up, especially in these times, I think it's always a positive or silver lining.” Davis, who played college football at Arkansas State, hopes to sell 'Man of God' headbands to benefit a charity
and/or a Christian organization.
Dashing Dish Debuted On Cornerstone Television Network
Christian Cooking-segment host Katie Farrell is scheduled to break out of Cornerstone Television's Real Life segment slot into a full Dashing Dish television program this fall. Dashing Dish is now a 30-minute show that premiered in October on Cornerstone Television Network. As an author, registered nurse, wife and mom (to the two pickiest eaters
on the planet), Farrell will host the Tuesday programs with a focus on tasty recipes, clean eating and faith. Viewers will discover Katie's secrets on how to make healthy living easy, enjoyable and maintainable for life. To view Dashing Dish, watch the live stream at www.ctvn.org/watch. For more program details, visit http://dashingdish.ctvn.org.
‘Give Your Life to Christ’ – Young Man Hugs His Brother’s Killer In Court
The brother of a man shot and killed in his own apartment by a former Dallas police officer shocked the courtroom and sparked a national debate by forgiving his brother’s killer and urging her to turn her life to Christ. The brother, Brandt Jean, then hugged the officer who had killed Botham Jean. The interaction even brought the judge to tears. “I forgive you,” Jean said before urging the former officer to “…Give your life to Christ.” Amber Guyger was convicted of murder and sentenced to 10 years in prison for the 2018 fatal shooting of Botham Jean. Guyger had mistakenly entered the wrong apartment and believed he was in her apartment. Brandt Jean, who is 18, took the witness stand after the sentencing and addressed Guyger. “Each and every one of us may have done something that we're not supposed to do,” said Jean. “If you truly are sorry—I know I can speak for myself—I forgive you. And I know if you go to God and ask Him, He will forgive you.” As he spoke, sobbing could be heard throughout the courtroom. Seconds later, Jean turned to Judge Tammy Kemp and asked, “Can I give her a hug? Please?” Kemp, wiping away tears, responded, “Yes.” Jean and Guyger hugged in front of the courtroom for nearly a minute. To see the video, visit http://abcn.ws/2puWKDl.
Brandon Lions Club Annual Luminaria Project Each year the Brandon Lions Club conducts its Luminaria fundraising project providing the kits to neighborhoods and individuals throughout the Greater Brandon area. Luminaria Kits are constructed with white paper bags weighted down with sand and illuminated from within by a candle. They are traditionally displayed on Christmas Eve. Each kit contains: 15 each of longburning votive candles, candle holders, white bags, and a plastic bag of sand (to use in the base of each bag). Kits are $6.50. Orders over 15 kits will be delivered to your neighborhood. Please call Joe Kuebler at 263-2522 to place your order or complete the Order
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Information Form located at www.brandonlions.org/luminary. Orders should be placed by Monday November 11. No payment is required with your order. All orders are COD and can be picked up or delivered on Saturday, December 21. Proceeds benefit Brandon Lions Charities, a not for profit 501(c)3 organization supporting eyesight and hearing programs, Southeastern Guide Dogs, Greater Tampa Lions Sight Fund, ECHO, Family Promise, The Outreach Clinic, Brandon High School Don Bishop Track Meet, Brandon Area Youth Soccer, and other local area needs since 1954.
Foundation Christian Academy Chili Cook-Off
The second annual Chili Cook-Off will be held on Saturday, November 16 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Foundation Christian Academy, 3955 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. The Cook-Off is presented by Panther Athletic Booster Club. This event is open to the community. Along with the chili competition, there will be live music, local vendors, a bounce house, a bake sale and a silent auction. There are two ways to participate: Take your best shot at making chili. First, second and third place prizes will be given as well as best decorated booth prize. Team entry is $60. If you want to come and just enjoy tasting the chili and get to vote for your favorite, the cost is $5 for a wristband. For more information or to register, contact Leslie at 340-5815 or SK8FAMILY5@yahoo.com.
Forgotten Angels Fundraising Gala With Former NFL Player
Forgotten Angels is nonprofit focused on providing resources and support to teens who have aged out of the foster care system and are struggling to achieve housing, education and life skills. Arise Assembly of God will host a fundraising gala on Saturday, November 23 at 7 p.m. Former NFL Player Brian Tyms will be the keynote speaker. For more information, email forgottenangelsfl@outlook.com or call 728-0461. More details can be found by visiting http://forgottenangelsflorida.org. Arise Assembly is located at 401 Pauls Dr. in Brandon.
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Page 21 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019
aluzak Mrs. WGrade 2nd Bevis Colleen tary Elemen l Schoo
Jacquelyn Waluzathk Teacher Of The Mon
a teacher? Why did you decide to become teacher, Mrs. Gancarz. She ten gar der kin I had a wonderful to differentiate the learnmade learning fun and knew how d By ts. I would play school Sponsore den ing to meet the needs of her stu the teacher, mimicking e of role g with my siblings, playing the Knowled I had another phenomenal her methods. In fourth grade, s t dified my decision to Poin teacher, Mrs. Jackson, who soli up. become a teacher when I grew the are rs che tea all That year, I learned that not have the same same, as my twin sister didn’t felt it in my heart I . did I as learning experience was what I that becoming a teacher like her ome a was meant to do. I strived to bec nce in the ere diff teacher who truly makes a luzak Wa rs. "M k, student’s lives and thin ed acaect exp the just n taught me more tha sionate demics. She taught me to be pas lifelong nt, nde epe ind an be To . about life dset. min learner with a positive growth s up. give er nev One who perseveres and best the e om bec to She inspired [me] be me I could be." Mrs. Wa luzak ha s
for over been a teac t would her 14 years What is something about you tha . ts? den stu r you to e pris sur a be e on degree, I also earned a creativ Along with my general educati s arts and iou var the iate rec app and ree. I love arts degree and a business deg wing up. ran several businesses while gro
why? What is your favorite book and You Filled a my students each year is Have h wit d My favorite books to rea k has changed ly Happiness for Kids. This boo Bucket Today? A Guide to Dai ior. classroom management/behav my perspective on how I handle saying? What is your favorite quote or e thinking is (because) the power of positiv did she She believed she could so all areas of life. st important key to success in truly incredible and pry the mo
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Page 22 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019
Opportunities To Share Jesus’ Love Through Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child
By Amanda Boston
It’s that time again—time to fill shoeboxes with toys, school supplies and hygiene items for impoverished children around the world. Operation Christmas Child (OCC), a ministry of Samaritan’s Purse, will hold its National Collection Week from Monday, An Emergency Room patient is transferred to the November 18 Samaritan's Purse Emergency Field Hospital. through Monday, drop off your shoeboxes at November 25. one of these collection By participating in OCC, you can sites in the Greater share Jesus’ love by supplying chilBrandon dren with needed items, but more area: The importantly, the gospel message is Chapel at presented during the distribution. FishHawk in Samaritan’s Purse works with the Lithia, local churches in more than 160 RiverStone countries and territories to distribute Church in the shoeboxes. More than 168 milGibsonton, lion children have received an OCC Bell Shoals shoebox since 1993. Baptist in Shoeboxes should be packed Apollo with items according to gender and a Beach, Shiloh Baptist Church in specified age range. Instructions on Plant City and First Baptist Church of how to pack a box and a list of sugDover. Drop-off times vary with each gested gifts, as well as a list of prolocation. Please visit the website for hibited items, can be found at specific dates and times. www.samaritanspurse.org/occ. An OCC is only one facet of online donation of $9 pays for the Samaritan’s Purse. The nondenomishoebox’s shipping and provides national, evangelical organization tracking to know where and when the has been providing physical relief box is delivered. and spiritual aid since 1970. Aptly During collection week, you can
named after the ‘Good Samaritan’ from Luke chapter 10, this international organization assists those affected by poverty, natural disasters, famine and war. In the wake of Hurricane Dorian, which pummeled the Bahamas in early September,
Samaritan’s Purse deployed a mobile emergency field hospital that comprised of 40 beds, an operating room, intensive care unit, outpatient department and emergency room. It has also transported close to 300 tons of emergency supplies to the islands and deployed more than 130 staff members. “Our team on the ground is seeing catastrophic devastation and widespread suffering. Our focus is on getting critically needed supplies and medical care to those who need it most,” said Franklin Graham, the president of Samaritan's Purse. “Please continue to pray for the Bahamas as we bring relief and share the comfort, hope and love of Jesus Christ.” If you would like to help Samaritan’s Purse with its relief efforts in the Bahamas, you can donate online by visiting www.samaritanspurse.org and search 'hurricane relief.'
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Athlete Of The Week: Seffner Christian’s Justin Stubbs Has Breakout Season Florida Orthopaedic Institute (FOI) announced senior running back Justin Stubbs from Seffner Christian Academy as the Athlete of the Week for the week beginning on September 23. Stubbs was nominated by the Crusaders’ head football coach, Travis Puleo, for his outstanding performance in Seffner Christian’s season opener against Orlando Christian Prep on August 23. He carried the ball 19 times for 135 rushing yards and two touchdowns while recording seven tackles on defense as well. Stubbs had a career game on October 4 in a 33-20 win against Cambridge Christian, where he rushed 20 times for 272 yards with two touchdowns and also recorded five tackles with one interception. “Justin is a very special player, and I have had the privilege to coach him for the last four years at SCA,” said Puleo. “He is a tremendous leader on and off the field for us. He is on the Leadership Council, a team captain and a member of the National Honor Society. He plays on both sides of the ball with great effort, and is one of the toughest
players I have coached in my career.” Stubbs leads in the classroom with a 3.6 GPA and leads on the field as well. In five total games this season, Stubbs has carried the ball 70 times for 584 yards (8.3 avg) and seven touchdowns. He is averaging 116.8 yards per game and has three games with over 100 yards rushing. He also has 28 total tackles on defense (5.6 per game). “I’ve been playing football since I was 5 years old,” said Stubbs. “I love the game. I want to be the best, and that drive helps me to keep going. I am grinding in the weight room and pushing myself at every practice. I am also staying on top of film and giving my all when I am on the field.” In the midst of a tough 3-3 start to the season, Stubbs is determined to lead his team to the playoffs. He hopes to rush for over 1,000 rushing
By Nick Nahas
yards and win a state title. “My team is having a rough go with many injuries this season, and it hasn’t started as we would have liked,” he said. “I am doing my best as one of the team captains to keep the team motivated and performing
the best I can at each game. Reaching these goals would be amazing because I know it is something that I have worked hard for. It is something that my team has worked very hard for.” Stubbs has taken on a leadership role and hopes that his team can turn things around, after having a taste of success in 2018, recording the best season in school history with an undefeated regular season and 11 total wins. “In order to be the best in any team sport, you have to make sure you are not only playing for yourself, but for your team,” said Stubbs. “Football is a team sport and it takes 11 guys to win in this game.” Florida Orthopaedic Institute’s Athlete of the Week campaign is designed to focus on student athletes, recognizing them for their hard work and dedication both on and off the field. The Athlete of the Week award can be earned by displaying leadership and/or being a team player. For more information, visit FloridaOrtho.com and like Florida Orthopaedic Institute on Facebook.
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Page 24 • christianvoicemonthly.com • November 2019