Osprey Observer Christian Voice Monthly February 2023

Columns:

Grace Notes: 04

Hooked On Books: 11

Faith & Footprints: 17

WOMEN’S CONFERENCE FEATURES KIDNAPPING SURVIVOR

First Baptist Church of Brandon is hosting its annual Women’s Conference on Friday, March 3 from 7-9 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and food trucks will be on-site from 5-7 p.m.

According to Anna Montes, communications director at the church, the church is expecting a full house for this event. Past events have drawn big names such as Kirk Cameron, performer Charles Billingsley as well as Jen Crider, the daughter of Christian award-winning artist Sandy Patti.

This year’s special guest speaker is Gracia Burnham, a missionary, public speaker and author of several books who made national headlines surrounding her kidnapping. For 17 years, Gracia, along with her husband, Martin Burnham, served as missionaries in the Philippines, where Martin was a jungle pilot delivering mail, supplies to other missionaries and transporting sick and injured patients to medical facilities. Gracia served in the aviation program and also homeschooled their children — all of whom were born in the Philippines.

In May 2001, the Burnhams were taken captive by a Muslim militant group. In addition to the Burnhams, the group seized several more hostages. In the following months, some of the hostages

were killed, but most were set free. By November 2001, only the Burnhams and one other hostage remained in captivity.

For more than a year, and under the total control of their captors, they were living in primitive conditions in the jungle, enduring gun battles and witnessing unspeakable atrocities.

Soon after the events of September 11, the news media took a greater interest in Gracia and Martin’s plight and kept their story in the national headlines. On the afternoon of June 7, 2002, over a year since their abduction, the Philippine military attempted another rescue. Tragically, Martin was killed during the gunfight. Wounded but alive, Gracia was rescued and returned home

By Kelly Wise Valdes

under a national spotlight. Her unique story and the captivating way she tells it makes Gracia a popular speaker for churches, conferences and schools. Gracia travels throughout the country revealing the spiritual lessons she learned during her captivity and how God has blessed her and her family since Martin’s death. She is also the founder and director of The Martin & Gracia Burnham Foundation.

“I’ve had the honor of being Gracia Burnham’s pastor for about eight years now,” said Dr. Mark Penick, senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Brandon. “When Gracia is not traveling the world telling her remarkable story, she’s rocking babies in the church nursery or singing in the choir. She loves the local church, which is why she enthusiastically agreed to speak at our women’s conference, where women from all across Tampa will come to worship God together and hear a great word of faith and endurance.”

The women’s conference at First Baptist Brandon will also include guest musical artist Amy Shreve. Gracia’s books, In the Presence of My Enemies and To Fly Again, will be there for sale as well. General seating tickets are $12 and can be purchased in advance or at the door. For more information, visit www. fbcbrandon.org or call 813-689-1204. First Baptist Brandon is located at 216 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon.

U.S. ARMY FIELD BAND’S CONCERT BAND CHORUS RETURN TO RP FUNDING CENTER

The U.S. Army Field Band, also known as “The Musical Ambassadors of the Army,” is returning to the RP Funding Center on Monday, March 6 at 7 p.m. for a free concert celebrating heroes who have served our nation.

The Concert Band and Soldiers’ Chorus are the oldest and largest of The U.S. Army Field Band’s performing components. Founded in 1946 and 1957 respectively, these two ensembles combine to present joint concerts on their national tours. They have performed in all 50 states and 30 foreign countries for audiences totaling hundreds of millions.

The 60-member Concert Band and 29-member Soldiers’ Chorus perform regularly in some of the most famous concert halls in the world, and just as often in the humblest auditoriums in the smallest of communities. The joining of these two ensembles allows them to ofer unparalleled versatility of programming, ranging from orchestral masterworks and operatic arias to Sousa marches, jazz classics and Broadway musicals. The band and chorus also perform independently and have

recently shared the stage with such ensembles as the Boston Pops, the Cincinnati Pops, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and the National Symphony Orchestra.

Tickets for this event are free. To get your tickets, please visit www. rpfundingcenter.com, click on the event and download the flyer. Fill out the flyer, choose your number of tickets (limit four per person) and mail with a self-addressed, stamped envelope to: RP Funding Center Box Ofce, ATTN: United States Army Field Band, 701 West Lime Street, Lakeland, FL 33815. Orders will be processed by firstcome, first-serve basis while supplies last. Envelope must be postmarked by Friday, February 3. The remainder of the tickets will be given away at the Box Ofce on Monday, February 13.

The RP Funding Center is conveniently located minutes between Orlando and Tampa in Lakeland of Interstate 4 on Lime Street; the RP Funding Center is a short drive from anywhere in Central Florida. Regular box office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.5 p.m. For ticket information, call the Box Ofce at 863-834-8111 or visit its website at www.rpfundingcenter.com.

Gracia Burnham is author of In the Presence of My Enemies and will be the guest speaker at the Women’s Conference at First Baptist Church of Brandon. Burnham captured the national spotlight as she was kidnapped in the Philippines in 2001.

Staf Report

NEW CAMPO FAMILY YMCA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BRINGS VAST EXPERIENCE

By Libby Hopkins

Mario Gallegos became the new executive director of the Campo Family YMCA this past November. With his new position, he brings a strong YMCA background. “I moved here from San Antonio, Texas early November and began my role on November 7,” Gallegos said. “My work for the Y is not new, as I was a part of the Greater San Antonio YMCA for six years. Prior to the Y, I have been an educator, coach, pastor and former branch director for the Schertz Family YMCA. My wife and I relocated to Bloomingdale the week of Christmas.”

Gallegos and his team have many plans for 2023 at the Campo Y.

“Our first exciting plan is the renovation of our outdoor pool,” Gallegos said. “This project will enhance our guest and member experiences for swim lessons, lap swimming, water exercise, swim team and recreation swim. Currently, we are painting the interior of the facility, our wellness floor has been completed and we have had many compliments of the updated look. Our Youth Zone received a grant from GTE Financial to completely renovate that space. This has enabled us to provide a safe, fun, in-

LOCAL PASTOR AND SON WRITE ABOUT ‘WHAT IF’

By Makenzie Atkins

teractive place for 8 to 12-year-olds.”

Another project Gallegos and his team worked on in the New Year was free memberships. “Our open house expo on January 14 was our chance to showcase the many programs the Y has to ofer,” Gallegos said. “Y swag was given away at our program tables, as well as information regarding the many programs we ofer.”

Gallegos has high hopes for the Campo Y in 2023. “I hope we will continue to strengthen the foundation of our communities through programs that promote healthy living, social responsibility and youth development,” Gallegos said. “The Campo Y has a long history in the Brandon area, and we are now impacting multiple generations and hope to keep making a diference in the lives of those who participate in our programs. I’m also hopeful that more people learn of our cause and will partner with us so that no one is ever turned away.”

If you’d like to learn more about the programs ofered at the Campo Y, you can visit its website at www.tampaymca.org/locations/campo-family-ymca. The Campo Y is located at 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico.

A local pastor and speaker has written another book, this time alongside his oldest son, to teach about living to your potential.

Dr. J. Shannon Eads and his son, Tyler Eads, urge readers to consider the ‘what if’ in seven diferent ways throughout their new book, The Breakthrough Power of What If: Choose to Live Your Potential. The book is available now and can be purchased on Amazon.

The Breakthrough Power of What If is about understanding that God has uniquely placed opportunities in your life for you to walk through. Tyler said that as a believer, it is your responsibility to acknowledge the opportunities presented to you and be faithful in serving them.

After Tyler talked with his dad, they agreed that many people they have met are living with regrets. This inspired them to help people learn how to keep from passing up on their ‘what if’ moments. The father-and-son duo want to ensure that readers are maximizing on these moments.

“To be able to write this book with my dad is an incredible blessing because it shows diferent perspectives on life,”

said Tyler, author and speaker. “These different perspectives can be both similar and diferent, but they are both valid in the way that they view all events of life.”

Tyler is a graduate from Durant High School and now attends Florida State University, where he majors in sports management. Tyler has always strived to make a diference in others’ lives and is excited to be able to reach people in a new way.

“I wanted to write, because I want to inspire people of all ages to never view the youth as unable to make a difference for God,” said Tyler.

Dr. Shannon has been a pillar in the community for many years, serving as the lead pastor at Browning Road Baptist Church for over six years. Two years ago, after being unexpectedly diagnosed with cancer, Dr. Shannon asked God to help him find what was next for him. After praying more, he knew God wanted him to write, not only for a larger audience, but for his family as well. The Breakthrough Power of What If: Choose to Live Your Potential will be his second book available on Amazon. For more information, visit https:// www.ministryformen.com/.

Care partners of those with any type of memory loss, whether family, friends or professionals, need to be equipped with the knowledge to best support their loved one. Gain this knowledge at our NEW hybrid support groups being held via Zoom and in person at Tessera of Brandon.

Hybrid Dementia and Alzheimer’s Support Groups

Mario Gallegos became the new executive director of the Campo Family YMCA this past November. With his new position, he brings a strong YMCA background and many new plans for the Campo Family YMCA.

Dr. J. Shannon Eads and his son, Tyler Eads, have teamed up to help people maximize the ‘what if’ opportunities that come their way.

Grace Notes Behind The Tire

By Debora Coty

with all his might, even to his own demise.

THE THORN BRINGS ITS POPULAR ENCOUNTER WITH JESUS EVENT TO

TAMPA IN APRIL

I rushed out to get in my car, late for an appointment, when something caught my eye.

A baby garter snake was cozily curled up behind the car tire. And I was about to back right over him.

Now I know many folks don’t like snakes, but I, being raised near a swamp, never minded the critters.

Nudging the harmless fellow with my foot, I said, “You can’t stay there, little buddy. It’s not safe. You’re going to be snake paste in about 30 seconds.”

But did he listen? Nah. He indignantly squirmed his annoyance at being disturbed and hugged the tire even closer. I scooted him over a few inches, and he scooted right back. I’m guessing he felt safe and content right where he was; the status quo had been working so why move?

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Right? Wrong. Things were about to change big time, but in his limited reptilian perspective, he couldn’t fathom it. And he fought change

I grabbed a broom and swept him out of his comfort zone, kicking and screaming, so to speak, into the grass where he could live to tell the story to his grand-serpents. As I drove away, it occurred to me that I’m a lot like that little snake. When the Lord brings change into my life, I resist it with all my might. The status quo has been fine — well, maybe not fine, but at least tolerable because I’m used to it — so I cling to my big ole safe tire.

Only the tire’s not safe. I just can’t see it from my limited human perspective.

I resist Papa God’s nudge as I squirm back into my comfort zone. But change is necessary for my growth, my health, my very life.

I must trust that He can see a much larger scope than I can and is working all things for good for this little squiggler who cannot grasp that there simply is no future behind the tire.

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” — Romans 8:28 NIV.

How about you, my friend? What life change has uprooted you from behind your tire?

The Thorn, a powerful and popular theatrical event that has been seen live by more than a million people, will bring the passion of Jesus to life with performances by its cast of 40 in Tampa’s Yuengling Center on Wednesday, April 5 at 7 p.m.

The Thorn offers audiences a unique theatrical experience in a show that has been hailed as “Cirque meets ‘The Passion’” thanks to its compelling mix of drama, music, dance, martial arts, aerial acrobatics, emotionally evocative performances and timeless spiritual perspectives. The script is based on the New Testament.

Author John Bolin created the show 25 years ago to convey the meaning of Christ’s sacrificial death to a group of young people who knew little about the story of Jesus’ suffering but were familiar with pain through their own practice of cutting and self-harm

The show has evolved ever since, with the current live version returning to the original format featuring St. John, “the beloved disciple,” recalling his many amazing encounters with Jesus.

“It’s a story full of love, sacrifice, spiritual warfare and redemption,” said John.

John said God called him “to tell stories on the page, stage and screen,” an assignment he has now completed

with the film version of The Thorn. His books include novels (The Eden Project) and Christian growth guides (So Loved, The Two Doors of Heaven and Life Unlimited).

Sarah Bolin, John’s wife, helped create the show and manages the show’s national touring troupes.

Through a partnership with Compassion International, a ministry that helps children and their families around the world, previous tours of The Thorn encouraged 15,000 viewers to start sponsoring a child.

While previous incarnations of The Thorn have been performed mostly at churches, the 2023 tour makes the show available to everyone at mainstream performing venues.

“Jesus believes in accessibility,” said John. “He wants everyone to have access to the ultimate story of love and hope. That’s why He came to Earth in the first place.”

The film version of the show debuts nationwide on Monday and Tuesday, March 6-7, just before Easter weekend. Details and tickets are available at www.fathomevents.com/events/TheThorn-(2023).

Tickets for the live event are now on sale at www.ticketmaster.com. Prices do not include facility fee or service charges. Advanced parking passes are available at www.parkwhiz.com.

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.

Resurrection Catholic Church is hosting its inaugural Vets for Vets Outreach Fair on Friday, February 17 to provide local veterans with information on benefits, community activities, medical care and other support made available to them.

The Outreach Fair will take place at the church, located at 6819 Krycul Ave. o f U.S. Highway 301 in Riverview, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The fair will be supported by representatives from James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital and SOHI Clinic, MacDill Airforce Base, Paralyzed Veterans of America and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

“The idea is to get the information from the Veterans Administration into the hands of our local veterans, especially veterans who have fallen through the cracks in that area,” said Pastor Daniel Kayajan.

Pastor Kayajan hopes that the men and women who have given up on trying to receive help from the Veterans Administration are provided with the nec-

By Lily Belcher

essary information to get help.

By having active representative from the organizations at the event, Resurrection Catholic Church also wants to make it easier for the veterans to get information, compared to trying to learn about the services online or over the phone.

“There are a lot of veterans in my parish, so I asked a few of them to get together, we chatted and o f we went,” said Pastor Kayajan.

The Vets for Vets Outreach Fair will be supported by a handful of employees and volunteers at Resurrection Catholic Church, as it hopes to host 50-100 people. Co f ee, doughnuts and other snacks will be provided at the event as well.

“I would like to see it happen on a regular basis. We will have to see what the VA tells us at the end of the fair,” said Pastor Kayajan.

Following its first annual Outreach Fair, Resurrection Church will speak to the representatives and veterans that attended to collect feedback on how it can improve next year. Its goal is to spread the word about the event to help make information about veteran services and benefits available to all who have served.

For more information on the Vets for Vets Outreach Fair, call the church at 813-677-2175.

Resurrection Catholic Church will host the fair at its parish in Riverview.

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS, SWEETHEART LUNCHEON, CAR SHOW AND MORE!

Blessing Of Te Animals

The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, located at 1971 Haverford Ave. in Sun City Center, invites the community to bring their pets to the church for a special blessing for health and happiness in 2023. This event will take place in the fenced area behind the main sanctuary building on Saturday, February 11 from 10 a.m.-12 Noon. All pets and their owners are welcome. Safety measures will be in place. A light complimentary lunch will be provided, and each pet will receive a goody bag. Owners will be gifted a free commemorative photo. This special day is sponsored by Community Connections, a ministry of the church. For additional information, visit www.sccumc.com.

Sweetheart Luncheon To Raise Money For Local Scholarships

The GFWC Ruskin Woman’s Club, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, presents its annual sweetheart luncheon, ‘Tea Leaves ’n Thyme’ on Saturday, February 11 at 12 Noon at the group’s historic clubhouse, located at 503 S. U.S. Hwy. 41 in Ruskin. Tickets for this annual event are $35 for adults and $20 for children. Tables can be reserved for up to eight people. Your reservations should be made by Monday, February 6 by calling 813-296-3900. Payments can be made with a mailed check or using a credit card online at https://www.gfwcruskinwomansclub.org/events. This is an extremely popular event, so tickets will sell out quickly. Guests rafes and 50/50 will top of the festivities. All proceeds from the event will provide scholarships for local students.

Love On Purpose Marriage Conference

The 11th annual Love on Purpose Marriage Conference, an immersive two-day event experience, is coming to Tampa on Friday, February 17 and Saturday, February 18, and the public is welcome to participate. The speakers at the conference are Dr. Jomo and Dr. Charmaine Cousins, the senior pastors at Love First Christian Center in Riverview. They have been married for 24 years and have three children, and their goal is to create a community of people who aspire to enjoy life together as a couple. With a strong foundation in Christ, they hope to inspire and motivate those who may need a little guidance on their journey. The event is being held at the Tampa Convention Center. For registration or more information, visit https://lovefirst.churchcenter.com/registrations/events.

South Bay Genealogical Society

Host February

Meeting

On Tuesday, February 21, the South Bay Genealogical Society will meet at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, located at 1971 Haverford Ave. in Sun City Center. Beginning at 10:30 a.m. is an optional roundtable discussion, followed by a sitdown luncheon at 12 Noon and then a presentation at 1 p.m. The speaker will be Paula Smith, who will be presenting ‘Paul Milton, Where Did You Go? A Case Study.’ The cost is $18 per person for the meal and presentation. For reservations and meal choice, call Dianna at 864-607-1330. Payment must be received by Thursday, February 9.

First Baptist Church Of Brandon

Presents Te 5 Love Languages Date Night

First Baptist Church of Brandon, located

By Kelly Wise Valdes

at 216 Parsons Ave. in Brandon, is hosting a date night on Wednesday, February 8 at 6:30 p.m. The event is centered around Dr. Gary Chapman’s book, The 5 Love Languages. Discover the tools you need to make a good relationship great or a hurting relationship heal. Expect to learn, laugh and connect as Dr. Chapman reveals powerful insights that will give you a better understanding of yourself and your loved one in the ways that connect you most. For more information, visit www.fbcbrandon.org.

St. Francis Of Assisi Catholic Church Hosts Sweetheart Car Show 2023

St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church invites the public to come enjoy its Sweetheart Car Show on Saturday, February 11 from 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Come bring the whole family to celebrate all the beautiful things in life, including cars, international food, prizes, music, dances and more. The church is located at 4450 County Rd. 579 in Sefner. www.stfrancisccsefner.com.

New Hope Church Hosts Buddy Break For Special-needs Children

New Hope is hosting Buddy Break, a free parents’ day out/respite program where kids with all types of special needs (VIP kids) have fun in a safe environment. At Buddy Break, VIP kids and their siblings make new friends, play games, do crafts, hear children’s stories, enjoy music and more. VIPs are kids with special needs, including kids with any physical, cognitive, medical or hidden disabilities. The first Buddy Break of 2023 is taking place on Saturday, February 25 at 10 a.m. For more information, email buddybreak@findnewhope.com or call 813689-4161. New Hope is location at 213 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon.

FINANCIAL FOCUS

In the past year, we’ve seen some big swings in the fnancial markets. This volatility may make you feel as if you have little control over your investment success. But the truth is, you do have more control than you might think — as long as you don’t let fear guide your decisions.

Investment-related fear can manifest itself in a few diferent ways:

• Fear of loss – Some investors may emphasize avoiding losses more than achieving gains. Consequently, they might build portfolios they consider very low in risk, possibly containing a high percentage of certifcates of deposit (CDs) and U.S. Treasury securities. Yet, a highly conservative approach carries its own risk — the risk of not achieving enough growth to stay ahead of infation, much less meet long-term goals such as a comfortable retirement. To reach these goals, you’ll want to construct a diversifed portfolio containing diferent types of assets and investments — each of which may perform diferently at diferent times. Your objective shouldn’t be to avoid all risk — which is impossible — but to create an investment strategy that accommodates your personal risk tolerance and time horizon.

• Fear of missing out – You’re probably familiar with the term “herd mentality” — the idea that people will follow the lead of others for fear of missing out on something. This behavior is responsible for fads or the sudden emergence of “hot” products, and it’s also relevant to investing. In fact, herd mentality may contribute to sharp jumps in the fnancial markets as investors drive up prices by buying stocks to avoid being left behind. And the same may be true in reverse — when the market starts dropping, skittish investors

may accelerate the decline by selling stocks so they, too, can get out before it’s too late. Buying or selling investments should be considered as needed to help advance your long-term fnancial strategy — not in response to what others are doing.

• Fear of the unknown – Some investors fall victim to “familiarity bias” — the tendency to invest only in what they know, such as local or domestic companies. But this behavior can lead to under-diversifed portfolios. If your portfolio is dominated by just a few investments, and these investments are fairly similar to each other, you could experience some losses when the inevitable market downturn occurs. To help reduce the impact of market volatility, it’s a good idea to spread your investment dollars across large and small companies in a range of industries and geographical regions. And that’s just on the equities side — it’s also wise to consider further diversifying your portfolio by owning bonds and government securities. (Keep in mind, though, that diversifcation can’t guarantee profts or protect against all losses.)

• Fear of admitting failure – Some individuals don’t like to admit when they’ve been wrong about something, and they may continue the same failed activities, hoping for eventual success. This behavior can be costly in the investment arena. Sometimes, a particular investment, or even an investment strategy, just doesn’t work out, but an investor is determined to stick with it — even if it ultimately means considerable fnancial loss. Don’t let his happen to you — if it becomes apparent you need to change your investment approach, move on to something better. Fear can hold us back in many walks of life — but don’t let it keep you from making appropriate investment moves.

HOPE FOR HER OFFERS FREE LIFE ENRICHMENT CLASSES THIS SPRING

Hope for Her is starting its spring semester of Healthy Habits classes. Each class is held on a Monday night from 6:15-7:30 p.m. at Hope for Her, located at 140 Yarbrough Rd. in Brandon.

“Our Healthy Habits classes are based on our whole-person approach. The class topics are in the areas of spiritual health, emotional health, financial health and physical health, and our teachers are knowledgeable women who have the heart to share their experiences with others,” explained Cheryl Hickman, executive director of Hope for Her.

Classes start on February 13 with ‘Parenting Our Adult Children’ with Ilene Stubbs, a counselor at Bay Life Church Counseling Center. As children become adults, parental relationships evolve with respect and healthy boundaries. This isn’t always easy. Come join others for encouragement and insights.

February 20 is ‘How To Cook Amazing Meals With Your Air Fryer.’ Johnna Gelfenstein will share ways to cook delicious and versatile meals with that air fryer you

CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM CELEBRATES 50 YEARS WITH TWO WEEK LONG JUBILEE

Staf Report

got for Christmas. There are so many options to make fun food for your family.

On February 27, Jean Ligon encourages spiritual health with ‘When We Decrease.’ Society sends the message that as women we have to ‘do more and work harder,’ but when we decrease and stop trying to control everything, God shows up in a mighty way.

March 6 is ‘Functional Fitness’ with Amanda Wolverton.

Wolverton is a certified yoga instructor with extensive knowledge of health and wellness. Dress comfortably as she shares tips and techniques to stay healthy and keep your body moving.

And finally, March 13 is ‘Food and Love.’ Stubbs will share about how what we eat afects every aspect of our lives, from our physical health to our emotions to our ability to love. This is based on Dr. Gary Smalley’s book of the same name.

All classes are free. RSVPing is helpful but not required. Call 813-309-3357 for more information or go to the ‘Events’ page at http://hopeforherfl.org/.

\ Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) is no stranger to changing tides in the Tampa Bay community and beyond. From inspiring the number one box-ofce hit Dolphin Tale starring Winter, an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin rescue and later CMA resident, to achieving feats such as releasing over 850 animals since 2010, CMA remains committed to making a difference in the lives of both its rescues and aquarium visitors.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium ofers guests an opportunity to tour numerous exhibits and book VIP animal experiences.

“That’s part of our mission: inspiring the human spirit,” said Kelsy Long, CMA’s director of media relations. “When people walk through the door, we want them to feel inspired by our animal stories and everything that they’ve been through, and the challenges that they’ve faced.”

From December 26, 2022, to January 7, CMA celebrated its 50th anniversary by extending regular hours to encompass a range of jubilee-themed events. Between 3-7 p.m. daily, visitors were invited to take part in activities such as the Spheres Bubble Show with Blaise Ryndes, who was featured on America’s Got Talent, as well as a Jubilee Boat Ride. Honoring CMA’s influence abroad, presented cuisine took on a Caribbean theme with menu items including dishes from places like Cuba and Belize.

Pairing rescue and rehabilitation programs with eforts to expand research and conservation methods, CMA’s mission to protect the future of marine life began in 1972 with the name Clearwater Marine Sci-

By Madeline Gardner

ence Center (CMSC).

In 1978, the CMSC moved its operations to a formerly abandoned water treatment facility on Island Estates donated to it by the city of Clearwater, and by 1981 the aquarium’s initial renovations had been completed and the first exhibit was presented to the public. However, it wasn’t until 1995 that the CMSC’s name was changed to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

CMA currently ofers a host of experiences to visitors, including opportunities to build a salad for sea turtles, feed stingrays and secure photo opportunities with animals. Exhibits feature North American River Otters, a nurse shark and Great White Pelicans among others, as well as moments to learn more about aquaponics and CMA’s surgical suite.

Looking further ahead into 2023, CMA will continue to plan new events and exhibits to engage the community such as “Dino Rescue”, which features life-size animatronic dinosaurs throughout the aquarium. Remaining open until April 15, this storyline features dinosaurs who are recovering from perils similar to those CMA marine animal rescues had faced before their own treatment at the facility.

For more on the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, its mission, and admission, visit https://www.cmaquarium.org/ or call 727441-1790. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is open daily from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and is located at 249 Windward Psge. in Clearwater.

Matthews Anglican Church

10701 Bloomingdale Avenue, Riverview

813-663-0334

Stephen Catholic Church

10118 Saint Stephen Circle, Riverview

689-4900

CHURCH OF GOD

Boyette Springs Church of God

12114 Boyette Rd., Riverview 671-0086

Plant City Church of God

Mud Lake Rd., Plant City 752-4591

EPISCOPAL

Innocents' Episcopal Church

N. Valrico Rd., Valrico 689-3130

LUTHERAN

Immanuel Lutheran Church

John Moore Rd., Brandon 689-1787

Living Savior Lutheran Church

Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico

681-2375

METHODIST

United Methodist Church of Seffner

South Kingsway Rd., Seffner

689-3513

Grace Community United Methodist Church

Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Lithia 661-8858 • info@mygraceumc.com

Hope United Methodist Church

N. Knights Ave., Brandon 689-4161

Riverview First United Methodist Church US Hwy 301., Riverview www.riverviewflumc.org

Ruskin United Methodist Church

4th Ave. NW, Ruskin 645-1241

South Shore United Methodist Church

11525 Big Bend Rd., Riverview

649-9462

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Calvary Chapel Brandon Kingsway Rd., Brandon

681-5318

Centerpoint Church

S. Miller Rd., Valrico 689-1906

Grace Community Church 1425 N Valrico Rd., Valrico (813) 689-9781

Harvest Bible Chapel Bloomingdale High School 813-699-0517

Love First Christian Center 12847 Balm Riverview Rd., Riverview 813-671-2009

River of Life Christian Center

6605 Krycul Ave, Riverview 813-677-4453

New Life Christian Church 401 S. Saint Cloud Ave, Valrico 813-548-2733

South Bay Church

13498 US 301 S., Riverview 813-677-0721

The Chapel at FishHawk 6026 Churchside Dr., Lithia 813-661-7105

The Crossing Church - Main Campus

10130 Tuscany Ridge Dr., Tampa, (813) 626-0783

The Crossing Church - SouthShore 2409 East College Ave., Ruskin (813) 626-0580

The Palms Church

207 New Hope Rd., Brandon (813) 841-9598

True Sanctuary 6528 US Hwy 301 S., Suite 114, Riverview (813) 319-5862

PENTECOSTAL

Destiny Church 2322 11th Ave. SE, Ruskin (813) 645-3337

HighPoint Church of Brandon 2207 Lithia-Pinecrest Rd., Valrico/Brandon (813) 685-4827

PRESBYTERIAN

First Presbyterian Church of Brandon -PCUSA 121 Carver Ave., Brandon (813) 689-4597

Redeemer Church-PCA 12404 Boyette Rd., Riverview

PENTECOSTAL

Lithia-Pinecrest Rd., Valrico/Brandon (813) 685-4827

PRESBYTERIAN

First Presbyterian Church of Brandon -PCUSA 121 Carver Ave., Brandon (813) 689-4597

Redeemer Church-PCA

12404 Boyette Rd., Riverview (813) 741-1776

Westminster Presbyterian Church PCA

402 E. Lumsden Rd., Brandon (813) 689-6541

“6 When the victorious Israelite army was returning home after David had killed the Philistine, women from all the towns of Israel came out to meet King Saul. They sang and danced for joy with tambourines and cymbals. 7This was their song:

“‘Saul has killed his thousands, and David his ten thousands!’

“8 This made Saul very angry. ‘What’s this?’ he said. ‘They credit David with ten thousands and me with only thousands. Next they’ll be making him their king!’ 9 So from that time on Saul kept a jealous eye on David.”

In this story, Saul is the boss and David is the employee. Saul hired David to be his mercenary or security guard, and, over time, David won every battle and secured victory for Saul. The issue was that David gained notoriety because of his success and Saul became resentful of people praising his subordinate. A key aspect of being a successful leader is not feeling threat-

Pastor’s Corner

Jomo Cousins, Ph.D. GIVE CREDIT

ened by your workers. Be confdent in where you are, what you have and what you can do. Saul should have been celebrating with his people since his enemy was defeated and he was no longer at risk.

I have seen too many instances in business where bosses felt threatened by their employees. As business owners, our goal should be to leverage their skills to help our businesses grow. Use their gifts and talents to help the business thrive and do not worry about credit. Focus on the fruits of their labor. If you have a successful employee or manager running your business well, give them all the credit because, at the end of the day, they are helping your bottom line. Never allow their gifts to threaten you. Stay in your lane!

Prayer: Lord, give me the wisdom I need so that I will not feel threatened by my employees. Help me to encourage them and celebrate their victories. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Except from: 60 Prayers in 60 Seconds, Page 46.

1 Samuel 18:6-9 (NLT):

The 11th annual Love on Purpose (LOP) Marriage Conference is coming back to Tampa on Friday and Saturday, February 17-18 at the Tampa Convention Center. This year’s conference will focus on Seedtime and Harvest utilizing relatable principles that can be applied to marriage. Speakers Drs. Jomo and Charmaine Cousins as well as J.J. and Trina Hairston are ready to deliver an exciting two-day event packed with a dynamic word, fun activities, relationship games and more.

Prepare for an immersive experience where you’ll learn how to properly maneuver marriage and the typical and not-so-typical challenges couples often face at various stages of their journey. It will focus on pruning negativity and planting seeds of encouragement to ultimately cultivate a stronger foundation for your marriage. You’ll learn the differences between sowing and reaping in your marriage and just how impactful your roles are individually and as a couple. Couples and spouses will learn how to practice positive communication, tend to each other’s needs and ultimately grow in love for one another.

The LOP Marriage Conference will feature six dynamic and educational sessions to nurture, strengthen, encourage and restore your marriage to reap God’s abundant harvest. Dance the night away at an exclusive all-white-attire

performance, featuring J.J. on Friday evening. This electrifying concert will allow you and your partner to fellowship together and celebrate in love.

Dr. Jomo and Dr. Charmaine are senior pastors at Love First Christian Center in Riverview. They have been married for 24 years and have three children.

Their goal is to create a community of people who aspire to enjoy life together as a couple. With a strong foundation in Christ, they hope to inspire and motivate those who may need a little guidance.

“At the core of what we live and teach is ‘Love, Laugh & Learn.’ These three pillars are integral to our relationship and something we try to encourage others to embrace in their relationships,” they explained.

Pastors J.J. and Trina are the bold, nurturing and charismatic leaders of All Nations Washington DC. With Pastor J.J. and his background in music and entertainment and Pastor Trina with her background in religious beliefs, together they’ve built a culture of counseling, healing and bringing people together.

To register or for additional information and FAQ visit: https://brushfire. com/lfcc/lopconference/543565. For more information on Love First Christian Center visit https://lfcc.tv/.

Hooked On Books: Love One Another

By Kelly Wise Valdes

It’s February, and love is in the air. Many of us celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14, and we attribute this day to romantic relationship love. But there are so many diferent kinds of love — we can love our spouses, our children, our friends, our pets, our jobs … we can even ‘love’ Mexican food. The greatest love of all is ‘agape’ love — the unconditional love God has for us. According to the King James Version of the Bible, the word ‘love’ is mentioned 310 times. As Christian families, we need to teach children at an early age that God loves them unconditionally and that God’s love for all of us is eternal, protective, faithful, merciful and forgiving. Even if we sometimes don’t feel very lovable, we need remind our children that nothing can separate us from God’s love. There are so many books about love — marital love, familial love, broken love — but there is also an abundance of books that we can use as resources to begin to explain to our young children God’s magnificent love.

My Valentine for Jesus

By Laurie Lazzaro Knowlton

This faith-based book is written with a sweet message about loving Jesus with all our heart. This is a Valentine holiday book for young children that will help parents share the meaning of God’s love. The rhyming text and delightful illustrations tell the story of a child’s love for his family, from mother and father and siblings. For children ages 2-5.

I Can Love Like Jesus

By Heidi Poelman

One of our great commandments is to love one another as Jesus loved us. How did Jesus love? This picture book will take the young reader through several examples of the way the Savior showed His love and compare those examples to how children can love as He did. For ages 7-10.

God’s Great Love for You

By Rick Warren

God’s Great Love for You is an adorable, illustrated picture book written to remind children that God’s amazing love is with them wherever they go, and nothing can stop His love for them. With fun illustrations and a great message, this book is perfect for ages 4-8 years old.

My Valentine Story: Giving My Heart to God

By Chrystal Bowman

This is a wonderful book about God’s unconditional love for everyone. It presents a loving story to young children about God and Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day is a perfect time to tell people we love them. Who loves all of us? God, of course. “How can I give God my heart? Loving him is where I’ll start.” For ages 2-4.

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR FLORIDA STRAWBERRIES

Now through the middle to end of March is the time to get and enjoy the ripest and sweetest strawberries grown right here in our own backyard.

Strawberry season runs from late December to midMarch and culminates with the annual Strawberry Festival in Plant City.

The Berry Barn , located at 3931 SR 60 in Dover, is an operating strawberry farm and the place to get fresh strawberries along with other fruits, vegetables and raw honey. The Berry Barn has a kitchen that offers up strawberry milkshakes, strawberry shortcakes and more. It is open daily from 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. and only accepts cash. The Berry Barn is open from January through March.

Parkesdale Market is located at 3702 W. Baker St. in Plant City. It is open daily from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. during strawberry season. Strawberries are grown on its farm. In addition, it offers its world-famous strawberry shortcakes and milkshakes. You can get a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the year.

Goodson Farms is located at 12405 County Rd. 672 in Wimauma. It is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Strawberries are grown and harvested on-site. It, too, offers

By Kathy L. Collins

a variety of treats such as strawberry shortcakes only during strawberry season.

Crossroads Produce is located at 10463 County Rd. 39 in Lithia. It is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Crossroads Produce is open year-round and offers fruits, vegetables, pickled items and boiled peanuts along with flowers and plants.

The Market at St. Martin’s Farm is located at 4802 James Redman Blvd. in Plant City. The strawberries are grown on its fields. It is open 10 a.m.6 p.m. daily. The Market at St. Martin’s Farm is open throughout the year and offers a delightful assortment of seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Lott’s First Choice Family Farms is located at 804 SR 60 W. in Plant City. It was established in 1949 and are open seven days a week from 8 a.m.6:30 p.m.

Wolfe’s Produce Market is located at 6005 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Riverview. It is open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Sunday. Wolfe’s is open year-round and offers a delightful selection of fruits and vegetables in addition to the seasonal strawberries.

Nativity Catholic Church, located at 705 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon, ofers a variety of services that are not exclusive to its parishioners. The services are ofered as a part of its Pastoral Care. Services provided include counseling, food assistance, homeless assistance and support groups.

The church has been ofering services such as the food pantry for over 35 years. Others, like counseling, have been ofered for over 20 years.

When asked why the church ofers these services, Bonnie Ussery, director of Pastoral Care, said, “As Catholic Christians, we are called to be the hands and feet of Christ. We do this by ministering to those in our community who are in need and are hurting. We help them by sharing the love of Christ with them, by encouraging and enhancing the spiritual, economic and personal development of the people in the Brandon community.”

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, Nativity Catholic Church may be able to help.

If you need food assistance, the food pantry is open on Thursdays at 1 p.m. It

By Kathy L. Collins

serves individuals who live in the following zip codes: 33510, 33511, 33596 and 33594. It is a drive-through food pantry, so you must stay in your car. The pantry is offered on a first-come, firstserve basis. The line starts at 12 Noon.

If homeless assistance is needed, then, as Ussery explained, “Our homeless ministry provides homeless bags with food and toiletries and other necessities such as blankets and rain ponchos (when available). We also partner with Family Promise of Hillsborough County to assist homeless families in need to regain their independence and dignity. Our Peanut Butter and Jelly Ministry makes and distributes thousands of sandwiches every two weeks to locations across the Tampa Bay area to organizations that assist the homeless and also makes up and distributes ‘goodie bags’ for the homeless three times a year that include socks, snacks, toiletry items and more.”

The church ofers counseling as well. It has four licensed counselors who ofer individual, couples, marriage, youth and family counseling.

The church also helps moms in need of baby supplies as well as seniors who may need assistance for their daily needs.

Finally, the church ofers a six-week Group Bereavement session three times a year and a 12-week Surviving Divorce Group twice a year.

To get these services, simply call the church at 813-681-4608. You can also visit www.nativitycatholicchurch.org.

Now is the time to get fresh, ripe, delicious and locally grown strawberries. Te farms are abundant in the area as are the produce markets where you can get the strawberries now through mid-March.

THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF SUN CITY CENTER OFFERS FREE EVENTS FOR THE COMMUNITY

The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center has a dynamic health ministry that presents varied and informative events that open to the community.

On Thursday, February 16 at 11 a.m., the health ministry will present Alzheimer’s Association - Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body: Tips from the Latest Research. The guest speaker will be Lisa Walts, MSW, CDP, an Alzheimer’s Association community educator. You can learn about research in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity and social engagement. Attendees will also receive tips to help incorporate the recommendations into their health plan. While the event is free, attendees must reserve a seat by calling 813-634-2539.

Te United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, through its health ministry, holds many informative lectures on a variety of topics, including its upcoming presentation from the Alzheimer’s Association on Tursday, February 16. Te event is free, but attendees must reserve their seat.

TAKE A CLASS THIS SPRING WITH THE CENTER 4LIFE LEARNING IN SUN CITY

By Kathy L. Collins

Walts received her MSW in clinical social work from Boston University. Walts specializes in advocating for and supporting people with dementia, and in working with and educating their families to better understand and communicate efectively with their loved ones. She brings an extensive background in training long-term care staf on person-centered care, as well as educating the public, medical professionals and first responders about Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

Victoria Sorensen, director of ministry, said, “This is a topic that everyone can relate to regardless of whether you

By Kathy L. Collins

feel comfortable talking about a sensitive and scary topic like dementia. We were hoping that by starting out with a relatable topic (health living), we could then build on that learning/ interest to encourage people to return for the second program, which will focus on the warning signs of dementia versus normal aging.”

Sorensen added, “Our church has offered this ministry for several years in order to help the local community learn more about medical conditions and care applicable to their needs. The health ministry is a vital part of the community and assists people to live their best lives. It is our mission to provide vital information to educate not only our congregation but also the local community in all areas of health and wellness.”

Other events include a lecture by Dr. Jonathan Dychko, from Healthy Home Primary Care in Sun City Center, covering a myriad of topics centered around management of chronic conditions and other geriatric care issues.

The health ministry also hosts OneBlood and its Big Red Bus on Sunday, April 2, June 4, September 3, November 5 and December 31 from 8:30 a.m.-12 Noon.

The church is location at 1971 Haverford Ave. in Sun City Center. For more information, visit www.sccumc.com.

The Center 4Life Learning, located at United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, offers a variety of noncredited courses that will enhance your life. The 2023 spring semester begins on Monday, February 13 and runs through Monday, March 27. View courses and register at www.sccumc.com/4lifelearning.

The Center 4Life Learning operates as an adult education outreach program which serves the entire community and surrounding areas. The courses o f er students the opportunity to benefit from the stimulus of lectures and discussions in an informal and relaxed environment.

Regular courses are $35 for six 90-minute classes. Some courses allow for walk-ins, and the cost for this is $10. Classes run for one week and up to six. All classes are in person.

There are a variety of courses offered. The spring semester features 26 courses provided on various days Monday through Friday. Courses that are offered include Living with ADHD, Music Medicine, U.S. History, Wellness Topics, Managing Life Transitions, Estate Planning, Drawing II and World Religions and more. Classes are available for registration and purchase online, by mail or in person. Classes fill up quickly.

Sue Holter with the Center 4Life Learning said, “All courses are led in

person by qualified instructors in an informal and relaxed environment on the campus of United Methodist Church of Sun City Center. Many of our classes involve hands-on instruction, and many encourage class participation. We o f er two six-week semesters in the spring and fall.”

Holter added, “Many of our instructors have been presenting for us for several years. Some have approached with new interesting topics. Some we have recruited from the local community. Some are members of the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center. Others are current and retired professors from Hillsborough Community College and from FSU. At the end of each semester, we ask our students to suggest new topics. Based on their suggestions, we are currently looking for instructors in French, Italian, bridge and creative arts.”

The college was established in 1976 as the Community Church College by the United Community Church. In 2019, it was moved to United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, located at 1971 Haverford Ave. in Sun City Center, and the name was changed to Center 4Life Learning.

For more information, please call 813-634-2539.

Come learn, be inspired and make friends while attending interesting and varied courses ofered by the Center 4Life Learning at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center. Te Spring semester begins on Monday, February 13.

MR. HANDYMAN CAN HELP WITH ANY TASK, BIG OR SMALL

Looking for someone to install a door, fix your dry wall or even totally remodel your kitchen? A new local business is ready to help.

Mr. Handyman, a new business located at 4329 Lynx Paw Trl. in the River Hills Plaza in Valrico, is excited to help in the community with any project — no matter the size

Not only can Mr. Handyman help with small projects like furniture assembly or ceiling fan installation, but because the company also has licensed general contractors, it can assist with full remodels as well. Mr. Handyman does not stop with personal projects around the house, as it is also available to help in commercial spaces too, from strip malls to o f ce spaces to hotels.

The owners of the local Mr. Handyman are a husband-and-wife duo who love to support the community. Al and Marisa Lembo opened Mr. Handyman in August of 2022, ready to service anywhere from Brandon, Valrico and Plant City to as far south as Northern Bra -

By Makenzie Atkins

denton.

Marisa and Al opened Mr. Handyman because they noticed that the community was in need of a reliable company to help get work done. The Lembos wanted to provide the community with a licensed, bonded and insured company that cares about the people and the homes they work in.

“We love to see our customers’ faces when they look at our work and realize that the problem that they’ve been nagging them is now corrected and they are happier than ever with their home,” said Marisa. “We truly love serving this community and bringing joy to our customers.”

With a background in construction and handyman services, Al has put together an experienced team to help you complete any project on your to-do list. Not only is the team experienced, but they are also excited to get out and serve the community.

To learn more or request service, visit www.mrhandyman.com/brandon-valrico-plant-city to submit a service request form.

TOBACCO FREE FLORIDA OFFERS GIFT CARD INCENTIVE TO ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO QUIT SMOKING

A new campaign by Tobacco Free Flor ida is of card incentive for el igible participants to encourage people to quit smoking.

From now through Friday, March 31, new participants in Citrus, Hernan do, Hillsbor ough, Pasco and Pinellas counties can receive a gift card for joining one of two pro grams through Tobacco Free Florida while supplies last. At the end of the quarter, participants in Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota counties will be ofered the same incentive from Saturday, April 1 until Friday, June 30 while supplies last.

“The incentive program is just a way to bring attention and a resource to people who are struggling to quit tobacco. It is our hopes that by providing this incentive that they will take the opportunity to use the resource of the incentive to help them in their quit journey,” said LaToya Livingston, tobacco program director.

Smoking adults can join Tobacco Free Florida’s in-person and virtual Group Quit sessions. Those looking to quit can partic-

By Lily Belcher

ipate in a two-hour single session and receive a $50 gift card or attend a four-week program that meets for an hour once a week and receive up to $125 in gift cards. For the four-week program, participants will receive a $50 gift card for the first session and a $25 gift card for each of the next three sessions they attend.

The nine-county gift-card incentive was made possible with a $2.7 million grant from the Florida Department of Health. The Area Health Education Center in the USF College of Medicine received the grant to support the incentive program. Livingston and her team hope to see a 35 percent increase in the number of participants in their programs following the gift card incentive.

Tobacco Free Florida ofers free programs to support those on their journey to quitting tobacco. While the incentive program is only available for a limited time and while supplies last, people can seek free resources and support groups through the organization.

For more information on Tobacco Free Florida or on how to quit smoking, visit https://tobaccofreeflorida.com/.

Tobacco Free Florida is ofering a gift card incentive for eligible participants to encourage people to quit smoking.

Al and Marisa Lembo have worked hard to create a team that can service any project from installations to full remodels.

FAITH & FOOTPRINTS Church Of Santa Maria — Rome, Italy

Each year on February 14, millions of people worldwide celebrate their love with chocolate, roses, Hallmark cards and romantic dinners. And for hundreds of years, various basilicas, churches and monasteries have been erected in the honor of St. Valentine, the patron saint of love. Many of these churches have claimed to house the remains of St. Valentine; however, the skull of St. Valentine is said to be on display at the Church of Santa Maria in Rome.

St. Valentine was martyred and beheaded for performing Christian wedding ceremonies in A.D. 269 In A.D. 496, Pope Gelasius I made February 14 — originally part of the Roman festival of Lupercalia — a feast day dedicated to St. Valentine.

When thinking of churches in Rome, most people would imagine picturesque cathedrals, but for the Church of Santa Maria, its history draws thousands of visitors each year. Its most notable architectural feature is a tall, squarish bell tower and housing the skull of St. Valentine.

Construction started on Santa Maria in the eighth

This morning, sitting at my computer, I found myself ‘dry.’ Not so much writer’s block as spiritual block. So, I turned to my Bible app and read the “verse of the day.” This is where the discipline part of being a disciple comes into play. I don’t need to wait to ‘feel spiritual’ and then connect with God’s good word, I can initiate the connection regardless. Faith is not about feelings so much as about practice. When I remember that important truth I am on more solid ground. The text from Ephesians 5:1-2 suggests we “walk in the way of love.” Not thinking, not talking, but walking. Putting one foot in front of the other and simply living love out loud.

By Kelly Wise Valdes

century over the ruins of an ancient temple. It was in the center of what was then the Greek community in Rome, and the skull of St. Valentine was thought to have been brought there shortly thereafter. Most of the church remains dates back to the eighth and 12th centuries, including the crypt located beneath the altar. The church displays several magnificent elements, such as the floor mosaics, the bishop’s chair, the alter and the medieval choir enclosure.

St. Valentine’s skull resides in a glass enclosure surrounded by flowers and can be found in the side altar on the left side of the church.

The church is also well known for another reason. Next to the entrance to the basilica is the famous Mouth of Truth. It is an ancient image carved in a round, Italian marble slab. The enormous marble mask is said to bite the hand of those who lie. This was the site featured in the 1953 film Roman Holiday starring Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn.

For more information on the Church of Santa Maria, visit www.romesite.com.

Live Like You Mean It ... Walk In The Way Of Love

I like the explanation the Apostle Paul has for this in verse 8: “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light — for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth.”

Here, then, are two very simple questions:

1. What does it look like to walk in the way of love?

2. What does it look like to live as children of light?

Paul suggests that walking in love is all

about giving ourselves up for others, and he writes that living as children of light looks like goodness, righteousness and truth.

Yet again, we see that our marching orders as Christians are all about light, and love, and grace and giving ourselves away. And we see — consistently — that the evidence of God’s work is the presence of goodness, kindness, gentleness, mercy, grace, love and light.

People come to know the goodness and the light and the love of God when they see

By Derek Maul

it in action. It’s not about ‘correct’ doctrine, or following a particular denomination’s rules, or denouncing people for whatever sin du jour we happen to be angry about at the moment.

Instead, this is how we are instructed: “Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love …”

Can I get an “amen”?

Derek Maul has written for many news outlets, including the Tampa Tribune, Te United Methodist News Service, All Pro Dad, FOCUS Magazine, Newsweek, USA Today, Te Christian Science Monitor, Presbyterians Today, Guideposts, Chicken Soup for the Soul and many other publications. Read Derek Maul’s daily blog posts at www.derekmaul.wordpress.com

HOT OFF THE CHRISTIAN NEWS WIRE

World’s Largest Faith-and-Family Broadcaster Celebrating 50 Years On Te Air In 2023

Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) is celebrating 50 years on the air in 2023 with a lineup of exciting programming and specials.

Launched in Orange County, California

on May 28, 1973, as a local, part-time Christian television station, TBN has grown to become America’s most-watched faith-and-family channel and the world’s largest religious broadcaster.

During 2023, TBN will be premiering a number of programs and series, including The Ramsey Show hosted by New York Times bestselling author and finance expert Dave Ramsey. Additionally, in 2023 TBN will release several exclusive productions as Fathom events, including The Journey: A Music Special with Andrea Bocelli.

Reaching over 175 nations across the earth with inspirational and entertaining programming 24 hours a day in 14 languages and on over 30 global networks, TBN has led the way in expanding the impact of faith-based television across the globe with the creation of innovative content designed to reach viewers with the life-changing message of hope and grace. To find out more about the TBN Networks, visit www.tbn.org.

Spiritual Moment On Field For Damar Hamlin

During a Monday night football game last month, Bufalo Bills player Damar Hamlin

sufered a cardiac arrest on the field. Hamlin is now recovering, but the impact of the event has reached the hearts of people across America.

Sometimes, God intervenes, and, on that Monday, sports fans got an otherworldly message when players bowed in prayer on the field and sportscasters prayed out loud on national television for Hamlin’s recovery. It reminded an entire country that faith still matters. As the country witnessed football players on the field bowing their heads in prayer as their teammate taken by ambulance for a battle to stay alive, it appeared that the event spoke to the spiritual hearts of people everywhere. Thankfully, Hamlin is recovering and has returned to his home to continue fighting his way back to good health.

While the team and their fans continue to celebrate Hamlin’s recovery, they also ask for continued prayers for the player’s complete restoration of health. The Bufalo Bills’ experience with their teammate was frightening, but through it all, people have found hope and optimism in the power of prayer.

New York Times Bestselling Author Launches New Faith-based Podcast

Annie F. Downs launched her new faithbased podcast, Let’s Read The Gospels, with in January. Her podcast will explore all four Gospels daily with various translations that will guide listeners through a monthly reading of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Religion News Service covered new Bible podcasts prior to the launch, with Downs commenting on how while her inspiration came out of the confusion of 2020, the

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Bible was grounding in the midst of it all, sharing, “The Bible never changed … and these stories never changed. … And Jesus’ response never changed.”

With each of entry telling the stories of Jesus’ life and ministry, the podcast will give listeners a chance to get to know Him in new ways. Downs will also offer a downloadable reading plan and guidebook at www.anniefdowns.com.

Consumed By Fire Kicks Of 2023 With New Song And Spring Tour

Consumed By Fire announced their first release of the new year, “Goodbye Ole Me,” which is available on multiple musical platforms for download. This trio of brothers is kicking of 2023 with a buoyant and encouraging song, and the band is excited about “all the energy this song will bring to live settings.”

The song shares the feeling of being made brand new in Jesus. “Every mistake / He Washed me clean / When I lost my way / Amazing grace found me,” the band sings. The song was released in January and is the latest release from their upcoming project, which is currently in progress. Top 20 and climbing at Christian radio, their current single “First Things First” is receiving attention praising the band for their performance. The band is hitting the road this spring with upcoming dates to be announced. Visit https:// consumedbyfire.com/.

Saint Anne Catholic Church

Saint Anne Catholic Church

Saint Anne Catholic Church

Vigil

Sunday8 Monday-Friday Wednesday &

~Masses~

~Masses~

Vigil Saturday 4:30 p.m.

MASSES

Sunday8 a.m., 10 a.m., & 5 p.m. (12:30 p.m. Spanish)

Monday-Friday 8 a.m.

Vigil.....................................................................Saturday 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday & Jueves 7 p.m.

Sunday........................ 8 a.m., 10 a.m. & 5 p.m. (12 p.m. Spanish)

Monday - Friday......................................................................8 a.m.

Wednesday............................7 p.m. Jueves.........................7 p.m.

Recorded Masses can be viewed on the St. Anne website (SaintAnneRuskin.org) and Facebook page.

Te Masses will be streamed and uploaded to the St. Anne website (SaintAnneRuskin.org) and Facebook page.

Reconciliation Tue. at 8:30am, Thurs. at 6pm, Sat. at 3:15pm and By Appointment.

Te church will be open weekdays for private prayer between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. Reconciliation Tur. at 6 p.m., Sat. at 3:15 p.m and by appointment. For more information, please check the St. Anne website.

For more information, please check the St. Anne website. Registration is now open for the 2021-2022 Faith Formation year. Please call the ofce for more information.

CALL FOR ARTISTS FOR ANNUAL FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL FINE ART SHOW

A call to artists has been issued by the East Hillsborough Art Guild (EHAG) for the 2023 Florida Strawberry Festival Fine Art Show, which runs from Thursday, March 2 through Sunday, March 12 at the festival grounds in Plant City.

Adults are divided into professional groups (entry fee is $15) and amateur groups (entry fee is $12). Adults can enter oils, acrylics, watercolors and graphic/ mixed media. The entry fee for miniature art (2D media) and sculpture (3D media) is $12.

The youth divisions are by ages between the age of six and 17. Youth can enter oils, acrylics, watercolors, graphic/ mixed media and sculpture. The entry fee is $5.

Adults can enter up to four entries, but no more than two in the same division. Youth can enter up to two entries.

Entries are eligible for substantial monetary awards. This includes $300 for best of show. Entries can also win $100 for the Strawberry Theme Award (entries must include strawberries or reflect the current festival theme of ‘We Have a Winner’).

There are prizes for first ($150) and second ($100) place in all adult professional divisions. Adult amateurs, miniature and sculpture receive $100 for first place and $75 for second. Adults who

HELEN MULRENNAN YOUNG REFLECTS ON 100 YEARS OF COMMUNITY IMPACT

By Kathy L. Collins

receive third and fourth place receive rosette ribbons.

For youth, first place receives $25 and second place receives $15. Entries that win third and fourth receive a rosette ribbon. All youth participants receive participation ribbons. Youth prizes are sponsored exclusively by Jarrett Scott Ford.

Artists who do not win one of the above prizes are eligible for a Business Leaders Choice Award. Area residents can also become a sponsor for the In Honor Award and select a winning artist who will receive a ribbon and $50.

Space is limited and entries are accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis. Early entries are accepted until Saturday, February 11. Artists can mail their entry form and fee to East Hillsborough Art Guild, P.O. Box 3055, Plant City, FL 33564. Artworks must be brought to the festival grounds on Saturday, February 18 from 1-6 p.m.

Tom Harrah of Brandon is a sculptor who entered the show last year. Harrah’s piece received first place. Harrah said, “It was a great pleasure entering the show.”

Entry forms and rules can be found at www.flstrawberryfestival.com. If you have questions, please email Karen Crumley at kscrumley@yahoo.com or call 813-924-3829.

Known for her “gracious heart and positive spirit,” Helen Mulrennan Young is set to celebrate her 100th birthday on Monday, February 27.

Young is the youngest and last surviving sibling of a family whose pioneering heritage in Eastern Hillsborough County is duly noted with the naming of Mulrennan Middle School in Valrico, which opened in 2003 at 4215 Durant Rd.

The school sits on land that was once the homestead of Joseph and May Mulrennan and their children, Annie Mae, John, Joe, Margaret, Bud, Frank, Tim and Helen.

Young, in 2006, became the last surviving sibling with the passing of Martin ‘Bud’ Mulrennan at age 93, a farming pioneer with a citrus grower’s hat who managed the family’s 160-acre Mulrennan Groves, now home to houses and the school. Her brother Joseph ‘Jody’ Mulrennan served as president of the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, which he helped to establish in 1959.

Also active in community life, Young is a member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Brandon, which her brother Bud joined as a charter member in 1960. She is a long-standing Cornerstone Baptist Church congregant, where she is known for her crochet ministry.

For more than 23 years, Young has crocheted blankets and hats for newborn babies and afghan blankets for newly married couples.

“My crochet ministry means everything

By Linda Chion

to me because when I crochet, I concentrate on what I’m doing and not on the things that I can’t do,” Young said, who sufers from advancing arthritis.

“I get satisfaction knowing that what I’m making is going to bring joy into someone else’s life.”

For her wisdom and largesse, Young in 2022 received the Spirit of Kiwanis Award from District Governor Karla Nielsen during an Apollo Beach visit. Young, reads the plaque, “with her gracious heart and positive spirit inspires us all to become better servant leaders and to live our highest and best lives.”

By rights, Young never should have made it past her early years. “When I was 9, my appendix ruptured, and back in those days that was like getting a death warrant,” Young said. “In fact, the doctor told my parents to start planning my funeral.”

What has kept her alive, Young said, is her enduring faith. Also, that she eats a lot of vegetables, keeps medications at a minimum, has a holistic doctor, stays fit and active and keeps her mind engaged. Her faith has gotten her through her darkest days, Young said, most notably after her cancer diagnosis while taking care of a blind husband battling Parkinson’s.

“There are a lot of struggles and joys in life,” Young said. “It takes those struggles to appreciate the good times that you have because if you had it good every day and you didn’t have to be concerned about anything, you would just go along in life and take it all for granted.”

Helen Mulrennan Young in 2022 receiving the Spirit of Kiwanis Award at Beef ’O’ Brady’s in Apollo Beach.

Artists are invited to enter the 2023 Florida Strawberry Festival Fine Art Show. Your artwork could win a ribbon and cash prize just like Tom Harrah did last year with his delightful mushroom house.

THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA BRINGS SOUNDWAVES CHAMBER CONCERTS TO CLEARWATER CHURCH

The Florida Orchestra (TFO) is expanding it Soundwaves chamber series to the Church of the Ascension in Clearwater starting this month. The series is a unique opportunity to experience TFO’s world-class musicians playing chamber music in an intimate setting.

TFO will perform three chamber concerts at the Church of the Ascension, located in downtown Clearwater at 701 Orange Ave. in the historic Harbor Oaks neighborhood. Built in 1925, the church is a grand historic landmark, with distinctive architecture and stained-glass windows that ofer a stunning setting for chamber music. In addition, three previously announced performances are scheduled at the charming Palladium Theater in St. Petersburg. The series is made possible by generous donors who prefer to remain anonymous.

Tickets are $25, all fees included, with general admission seating. They are available now at https://floridaorchestra.org/ or by phone at 727-892-3337.

The chamber series concert schedule is: Pictures at an Exhibition Revisited

Chelsea Gallo, conductor

Listen to a beloved classic in a whole new way with this colorful version of Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, arranged for chamber orchestra by Australian-Chinese composer Julian Yu. Beethoven’s lighthearted septet for Winds and Strings in E-flat major was his most popular work during his lifetime.

Staf Report

It will be on Friday, February 10, 8 p.m., at the Church of the Ascension and Saturday, February 11, 8 p.m., at the Palladium Theater.

Te Sorcerer’s Apprentice & More

Chelsea Gallo, conductor Program includes Dukas’ magical The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, Saint Saëns’ Danse Macabre, Stravinsky’s Dumbarton Oaks and more. Note: This program is presented without intermission.

It will be on Thursday, March 9, 8 p.m. at the Church of the Ascension and Sunday, March 12, 2 p.m., at the Palladium Theater — a matinee.

Michael Francis conducts Bruckner’s Seventh Fall in love with Anton Bruckner in this intimate chamber version, conducted by music director Michael Francis. Influences of Beethoven and Wagner shine through his most popular symphony.

It will be on Friday, April 21, 8 p.m., at the Church of the Ascension and Saturday, April 22, 8 p.m., at the Palladium Theater.

TFO will perform more than 100 concerts this season in venues throughout Tampa Bay, including a wide range of classical, popular, film, rock and family-friendly music. The orchestra’s 55th Celebration concert featuring legendary violinist Itzhak Perlman will be Saturday, March 11 at the Mahafey Theater. Tickets for all concerts are on sale now at https://floridaorchestra. org/.

Te Doors of Te Church Are Open

EXPERIENCE A SPARK OF HISTORY THROUGH THE EDISON AND FORD WINTER ESTATES

If you are looking to enjoy the beautiful Florida weather and learn something along the way, look no further than then the uber-charming Edison and Ford Winter Estates in downtown Fort Myers on Florida’s Gulf Coast. It’s a perfect recipe of U.S. and Florida history with a dash of architecture, botany, engineering and innovation mixed in.

Prolific inventor Thomas Edison and automobile pioneer Henry Ford, personal friends and business collaborators, purchased adjacent winter estates near the Fort Myers waterfront to escape the brutal northern winters. The Edison estate boasts a main house, adjoining guest house, Edison’s study, caretaker’s home and swimming pool complex. The Ford estate sits steps away next door.

Just an hour-and-a-half drive south on I-75 from the Tampa Bay area, these homes take visitors on a journey back to the turn of the 20th century to discover how these two great men lived, worked and played in the Florida sunshine. Today, the complex (and your admission ticket) includes an expansive museum, botanical gardens, historic homes, garages of classic Ford automo-

By Jef Hoening

biles, Edison’s study and his Florida laboratory.

Visitors could spend hours perusing the myriad of Edison inventions, such as the incandescent light bulb, the phonograph, even the movie camera. Edison filed and held an astounding 1,093 patents, 389 for light and power alone, and his contribution to sound and picture recording is monumental.

Check out the beautifully maintained 1916 Ford Model-T given to Edison by Ford. Ford once said of the famous Model-T, “The consumer can choose any color he wants as long as it’s black.” So why was it called the Model T? Simple! The first design of the ‘horseless carriage’ was called the ‘Model A,’ and subsequent designs moved down the alphabet.

Have fun with the scavenger hunt with your littles or enjoy the self-guiding tour with the easy-to-download app. And be sure to look for the photo of Edison napping on the lawn with the President of the United States reading the newspaper in the background. www.edisonfordwinterestates.org.

Is Your Child Speaking Clearly?

“I

- Cortney, Mom

QUEENA CHARITY HOSTS THIRD ANNUAL HOPE CLASSIC AT TOP GOLF

Local nonprofit Hope Heals the Brain was created to raise funds for the Bloomingdale Library Survivor, known to the community as Queena, to regain the life she once knew. As the foundation grows, the possibilities of helping other local survivors is now possible.

Queena’s sister, Anna, started the nonprofit in hopes to continue raising funds and awareness for families and individuals afected by traumatic brain injury in the Central Florida region.

Area golfers are coming together for a fun-filled night at Topgolf in Brandon for Hope Heals the Brain’s Hope Classic. “This is our third event at Topgolf,” said Queena’s mother, Vanna Nguyen. “The last two were so successful we thought it would be a great idea to bring it back and try to reengage the community again. The COVID pandemic was so tough for us and many nonprofits. We were not able to hold fundraisers like we used to and the turnout dropped.”

The Hope Classic will be held on Sunday, February 19 from 4:30-8 p.m. Participants will enjoy an all-American bufet, private cash bar, 50/50 rafe, silent auction as well as a top-notch Topgolf experience. To register online and pay by credit card, please visit https://hopeclassic.eventbrite. com. All registration fees and tournament sponsorships are tax-deductible donations; a sixsome costs $400, individuals are $75 and spectator/dinner registration is only $30. “We’re really looking forward to bringing everyone back together again for Quee-

By Libby Hopkins

na, and for the Jasmin and Churchill,” Nguyen said. Jasmin and Churchill are other local residents who have brain injuries.

Churchill is a 40-yearold woman who was diagnosed with a brain tumor and underwent surgery in 2021. The surgery was only able to remove part of the tumor, and she was left in a coma for several months as a result. The surgery and remaining tumor have left her unable to walk, stand, move or shower on her own. Churchill has limited resources and would benefit from a wheelchair-accessible vehicle to see her three young children and attend appointments and therapies. Securing permanent transportation options will allow Churchill to continue with her recovery journey.

Jasmin is a 13-year-old girl who was on vacation with her family in Mexico and was involved in a tragic accident that claimed the lives of her parents and grandparents, which has left her in critical condition. Her family was able to raise funds to have her airlifted back to the U.S. She is currently in ICU at a local Tampa hospital. “We hope to raise enough money to help cover a few sessions of Queena’s therapy this year,” Nguyen said. “Jasmin will also be coming home from rehab soon and will need some renovations in her home to make it wheelchair accessible. Churchill’s family really needs a new vehicle that can fit a wheelchair. They have no other mode of transportation right now to get her to doctor’s appointments.”

For more information or to get involved, visit www.JoinQueena.com

COUNTY GRANT FUNDS HIGH 5 INC. POOL RENOVATIONS JUST IN TIME FOR SUMMER PROGRAMS

High 5 Inc. was awarded a grant to fund the resurfacing of its three pools, which are expected to be completed at the end of April.

The $550,000 grant was given to High 5 by Hillsborough County at the beginning of the 2023 annual budget cycle.

“It helps us to be able to teach children under the age of 3 to swim, increases the opportunity to run competitions, which would have a nice economic impact to our area and create a much better experience for all community members that use these areas,” said High 5 CEO Chuck Burgess.

At High 5’s location of U.S. Highway 60 at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon, all three pools will undergo the resurfacing financed by the county’s grant. High 5 owns an Olympic-sized lap pool with five diving boards and a diving well. Its 10lane, 25-yard pool and teaching pool are also being renovated.

The pool resurfacing project is part of a three-phase improvement project to update High 5’s facilities. This phase will allow the recreation center to add aquatic facilities to expand opportunities for swim lessons, school practices and other events. Additionally, these improvements will make space for senior programming,

By Lily Belcher

giving large groups or church organizations the appropriate space for their meetings.

“The grant is more than just a resurfacing,” explained Burgess.

“It has been part of a three-phase overall project to update and add significant aquatic facilities for learning to swim for all ages.”

BCI Pools is in charge of the renovation project. The Fort Myers-based swimming pool contractor has 40 years of experience building pools for the community.

High 5 is a community recreation center that supports education, athletics and community through its programs. High 5’s value-added membership opportunities give members special prices, early registration and exclusive invitations to events, among other perks. Juniors can receive a membership for $40 per month, individual memberships cost $55 per month and family memberships cost $75 per month. One-day guest passes are also available for $10 per person.

For more information on how to join High 5 and to learn about its mission to serve the community, visit www.high5inc.org. To contact the organization, call 813-689-0908 or email memberservices@high5inc.org.

Local nonproft Hope Heals the Brain was created to raise funds for the Bloomingdale Library Survivor, known to the community as Queena, to regain the life she once knew.

Resurfacing the pools will allow High 5 Inc. to better support its community and members.

Certified Roofers has been a part of our community since 1981. Its quality of service is well known in the community. “Certified Roofers was founded by my father when he was just 18 years old,” said Certified Roofers’ owner and president, Alex Sanchez. “He spent his entire life building the business right here in our community. We unfortunately lost him in 2015, but we have carried on in his honor ever since.”

Sanchez was born and raised here in Valrico. He attended Riverview High School where his mother was a teacher for many years. “I went on to work in the family business while attending USF and have never left the business,”

THE POWERFUL PARABLES OF JESUS THE PARABLE OF THE SOWER

By Libby Hopkins

stituents.

For 2023, Sanchez and his team want to give a roof away to a local charity each month. “What we are choosing to do this year is, in addition to those roofs, we want to honor a different local charity every month where we will donate a portion of revenue to each charity every month,” Sanchez said.

“The charities were chosen due to my current charitable activities, and other local outfits that bring positive change to our community. All charities we donate to will have a local presence, no national exposure, because we strongly believe in focusing our attention here at home.”

Sanchez feels incredibly blessed by

During His ministry, Jesus frequently challenged conventional wisdom, and He also encouraged His followers to radically demonstrate God’s love. He often did this through the use of parables. For Christians, parables are not just short stories illustrating a spiritual lesson, as Jesus used parables to relay important instructions and lessons. Jesus’s parables used elements of everyday life to illustrate a vital message in ordinary language. There are more than 30 parables in the Bible, each with its own dynamic lesson.

The Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke each contain Jesus’ teaching of the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1-9, Mark 4:1-9, Luke 8:4-8). Jesus tells the story of a sower (similar to a farmer) who scattered seeds on four diferent types of soil. The first type of ground was hard, and the seed could not sprout or grow. The second type of ground was stony, and the seed began to grow; however, it could not grow deep roots and eventually died. The third type of ground was thorny, and although the seed started to grow, it could not compete with the thorns and eventually withered. The fourth ground was good soil that allowed the seed to plant deep, grow strong and eventually produce fruit.

Jesus used this parable to explain to his followers about the diferent responses to believing the gospel. The sow-

By Kelly Wise Valdes

er in the parable is Jesus and the seed is the God’s word. The hard ground represents someone with a hardened heart that may hear the word of God but will not accept it. The stony ground is someone who shows interest and awareness in the gospel, but their heart isn’t completely convinced, so when trouble comes, their faith is not strong enough to last. The thorny ground is a person who receives the gospel but who has many other distractions in life — worries, riches and worldly pleasures that rule their mind and heart, and they cannot grow in God’s faithfulness.

The good soil is someone who has heard and received the word of God and allows it to take root and grow within their life. This person represents God’s salvation and Christian-like faithfulness. Their roots grow deep and can withstand the hardships of life. Their lives grow in God’s love and produce more than they could have ever imagine.

Jesus used the Parable of the Sower to teach how important the state of our heart is to receive the word of God and how our salvation is represented by our choices and actions. God has extended His grace to everyone, even those he knows will likely reject it. God sows the seeds in hopes they will cultivate their heart into the fertile soil and experience life fully through Him.

Alex Sanchez, owner and president of Certifed Roofers, and his staf are giving away a roof every month in 2023 to local charities.