Osprey Observer Christian Voice Monthly May 2023

Columns:

Grace Notes: 04

Hooked On Books: 11

Faith & Footprints: 17

NEW HORIZONS GROUP HOME CELEBRATES 24 YEARS

New Horizons Group Home has been part of the Brandon community for 24 years. They will be hosting an anniversary luncheon on Saturday, June 10.

“This is a great opportunity to learn more about New Horizons and its history that has brought us to where we are today,” said Brenda Watkins of New Horizons Group Home Inc. “There will be a delicious lunch and a short presentation by our residents.”

In 1992, several parents, teachers and friends of members of the Special Ministries Department of First Baptist Church Brandon identified a need for long-term living facilities for developmentally disabled men and women. A committee was formed to investigate the requirements to undertake this task. Out of this group, New Horizons Group Homes was born.

The mission of New Horizons Group Homes is to provide a family-oriented Christian group home living environment that supports adults with disabilities to help them achieve their

New Horizons Group Home has been part of the Brandon Community for 24 years. It will be hosting an anniversary luncheon on Saturday, June 10. Tickets for the organization’s upcoming luncheon are $25 for an individual ticket or $175 for a table of eight. Te deadline for purchasing tickets is Saturday, June 3.

By Libby Hopkins

a Christian home with a family atmosphere, and the most important thing to me is that it has remained just that. Our daughter has been in the home since the first one opened in June of 1999, and she loves being there. As parents, my husband and I are so happy when she is at our home and are also happy to see that she loves going back to her home. It has been so heartwarming to see how all of the residents have blossomed over the years. The very best part of this whole experience has been seeing how God has provided for all of our needs.”

New Horizons is home to 16 residents. “We have two homes for men and one for ladies, and we currently have openings for three men,” Watkins said. “Our homes are based on Christian principles and have a family atmosphere where our residents are encouraged to reach their full potential. They have gained a wonderful sense of independence while having 24/7 supervision. Six of our residents work in the community, while the others go to diferent day programs.”

highest potential for independence through a variety of services emphasizing faith, family, choice, independence, dignity and respect. “It is amazing to look back to when New Horizons was just an idea with a group of people wanting to make it into a reality,” Watkins said. “We all wanted

Tickets for the organization’s upcoming luncheon are $25 for an individual ticket or $175 for a table of eight. The deadline for purchasing tickets is Saturday, June 3. If you’d like to learn more about New Horizons Group Homes, visit www.newhorizonshomes.org.

IMMANUEL TEACHER PEGGY RANKIN CELEBRATES RETIREMENT AFTER 42 YEARS

Helping to brighten young minds for over 40 years, Peggy Rankin is ofcially retiring a her teaching position at Immanuel Lutheran School at the close of the 2022-23 academic year. Having joined the Immanuel Lutheran staf in 1996, Rankin remains appreciative of all the creative opportunities and growth her time at the school ofered her.

Receiving a double major in elementary education and physical education from Concordia University Chicago, Rankin began her career by teaching in Wilmington, Illinois. Enjoying the community connections within the small town, she taught middle school P.E. and worked as an athletic director.

After relocating to Tampa Bay, Rankin pursued a fourth grade teaching opportunity at Robles Elementary for a year before settling down at Limona Elementary for three years as a fifth grade teacher. Despite having been awarded teacher of the year during her final year at Limona, Rankin cited a strange twist in fate as the reason for landing a position at Immanuel Lutheran.

While walking across the church grounds after the service one day, Rankin encountered a friend from college who had gone on to teach at Immanuel Lutheran herself. Intending to relocate, her friend suggested Rankin take up her position. At that same moment, the principal of Immanuel Lutheran came down the church steps and extended Rankin an opportunity to interview. Believing it

was her time to give back, Rankin accepted the job.

“I do believe God has plans for you,” said Rankin.

Her first few roles at the school ranged from covering seventh grade science, eighth grade math, seventh and eighth grade computer classes and five P.E. courses while helping coach athletics. Within her first year, she established the school’s student council. Further developing a legacy for herself, she also initiated the field day tradition that same year, providing students across various grades the chance to work with one another. Along

By Madeline Gardner

the way, she eventually became the athletic director, a position she had there for 17 years.

Ultimately becoming a sixth grade homeroom teacher in 2007, Rankin created a classroom treasure box that allowed children to exchange ‘big bucks,’ a reward for completing homework or helping out a fellow student, for a prize. Realizing her students were learning a valuable lesson on how to count and save, she founded Immanuel Lutheran’s superstore and opened it once a month for about 12 years with help from church volunteers and even her own parents.

While looking forward to a retirement spent with her grandchildren and volunteering, she said she will still miss being a part of her students’ ‘lightbulb’ moments.

“The thrill that you get when you’re teaching a student and they get it. All of a sudden, the lightbulb goes on, and they’re like ‘oh’ — I will miss that,” said Rankin. “Because that’s really joyful.”

Rankin’s colleagues have currently created a Kudoboard for members of the community to post send-of messages. Those interested can find the page by visiting www.kudoboard.com/boards/Jt3vMVU2#view. Additionally, Rankin looks forward to seeing past students and their families at her retirement party on Saturday, May 20 from 1-5 p.m. in the

Immanuel Lutheran

gym.

Peggy Rankin helped continue Immanuel Lutheran School practices, such as taking the sixth grade students to the Luther Springs Campground in Hawthorne as part of their outdoor education.

BIKES FOR CHRIST HELPS THOSE WHO TRY TO HELP THEMSELVES

People who are trying to get their lives back on track often find many obstacles, such as lack of transportation, to be an impediment to their goal. In an efort to help those who are trying to help themselves, Bikes For Christ was established in 2016.

According to the founder, Pat Simmons, “Our goal is to help those who are trying to help themselves.” Simmons added, “We work directly with case managers at agencies that provide services to those in need. If they feel an individual is truly making life-changing decisions for the better, and a bicycle would benefit them, they can place an order with us.”

Bikes For Christ also works with area employers and schools.

An example of this is the work Bikes For Christ does with the Hillsborough County Sherif ’s Department in its Reentry and Homeless Initiative. Another example is its work with Cove Behavior Health (formerly known as DACCO). Other organizations include Metropolitan Ministries, Catholic Charities and the Tampa Veterans Administration.

Bikes For Christ is an all-volunteer organization. It has approximately 10-11 volunteers and has separate team members

By Kathy L. Collins

that work on the bike repairs and the deliveries. It also has volunteers that represent the organization at local chamber meetings and events. These include outreach events, outdoor markets and expos. At these events, the volunteers share the mission of Bikes For Christ.

Bikes For Christ are seeking donations of primarily men’s bikes. You can drop of men’s bikes at several local locations, including Beef ’O’ Brady’s, located at 210 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon; Brandon Bikeworks, located at 6048 Winthrop Town Centre Ave. in Riverview; and Jarrett Scott Ford, located at 2000 E. Baker St. in Plant City. If you cannot drop of your donation of a men’s bike, you can complete a form online to make arrangements for volunteers to pick up the bike.

Please note it is not accepting children’s bikes at this time.

In addition to donations of men’s bikes, Bikes For Christ is also in need of monetary donations. According to Simmons, “Our biggest need right now is a new building so we can continue to help those in need.”

For more information, please visit www. bikes4christ.com.

Bikes For Christ works with local organizations, employers and schools to get bikes to people who are trying to make truly life-changing decisions for the better. If a bike will beneft them, it can get a bike.

Grace Notes Keep on Keeping on

By Debora Coty

ALL PRO DAD EXPERIENCE TAKES PLACE AT RAYMOND JAMES

By Jonathan Hurst

vid, and later, Jesus Christ.

The past few pandemic years have been hard on all of us, believers and nonbelievers alike. We’ve encountered obstacles we’ve never before faced, some we never even knew existed. Disruptions to our sense of security that seemed to have no resolution in sight.

Whatever our foe - unemployment, divorce, rejection, abuse, personal loss, illness, fatigue - we may feel beaten down and don’t see how we can possibly endure.

But my friend, take heart. Others have done it. Because of Immanuel (”God with us”).

Ruth tragically lost her husband, friends, and home but chose to follow God’s guidance to accompany her mother-in-law to a foreign country, where Ruth was diferent.

Rather like you moving to a remote Kenyan village. Hard. Lonely.

But because Ruth persisted, she was blessed with new love and new life, completing the lineage that produced King Da-

Hannah not only had to share her husband with another woman, she was barren - a public disgrace in her day. For years she endured cruel taunting from “the other woman.” Hannah was greatly distressed and wept bitterly. But here’s our takeaway: she kept on praying. She made the decision to trust God through horrible circumstances.

The Lord mercifully blessed Hannah with her heart’s desire, and Hannah’s child grew to become the mighty prophet Samuel.

Jesus, of course, was our gold standard example of endurance through hardship. He persevered through ridicule, beatings, imprisonment, deception, and desertion by his closest friends. People failed Jesus again and again. But He rose above disappointment and hurt. He kept His eyes on His deeper purpose - saving the very ones who had wounded Him most.

So what about you - are you feeling beaten down? Struggling daily to endure? Can’t seem to rise above it? I totally get that. I’ve felt the same way.

But what we can’t rise above, we must pass through.

Jesus will help us do it.

“God blesses those who patiently endure,”

(James 1:12 NLT)

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.

All Pro Dad, a Tampa-based nonprofit, has completed yet another successful event, this time on March 25 at Raymond James Stadium. The sold-out All Pro Dad Experience event had over 1,000 dads and their kids in attendance. Attendees were able to engage in a variety of football-oriented activities from the start at 9 a.m. until the event ended at 12 Noon. There were football drills as well as tickle-tackle and touchdown dancing available across the field; plenty of laughter and smiles were also had.

While All Pro Dad might have started in Tampa, where it operates to this day, it has extended far across the nation, as there are now over 1,000 All Pro Dad chapters across over 40 states. This growth has allowed founder Mark Merrill to impact thousands of children and dads across the country.

“Over 20 years ago, former Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Indianapolis Colts head coach Tony Dungy and I founded All Pro Dad. With the mission to help fathers love and lead their families well, All Pro Dad ofers resources, training and events. We believe a great way to help fathers become even better leaders in their families is by dedicating one minute a day, one hour a month and one day a year to this goal,” Merrill said.

With increasingly large national operations, All Pro Dad continues to maintain a strong presence in the Tampa area, having 62 active chapters within

Hillsborough County.

These chapters have ingrained themselves within the culture of the schools and engage with the dads and kids in several ways, one of which is the breakfast program. Through this program, dads are able to have breakfast at school with their children, which in turn helps build their relationship through one-on-one time and camaraderie with other dads and children. Attendance at these events can reach up to 200 dads and kids.

All Pro Dad has recently developed multiple new programs to help foster healthy relationships between dads and their children. One of these is a national curriculum for middle and high schools that allows for the All Pro Dad message to efectively reach all ages. An additional program Serve, , gives dads the opportunity to volunteer at the school to allow teachers and administrators to focus on what they do best: helping to provide the best educational environment for the kids. This could be anything from operating the car line in the mornings to lunch assistance, or any other applicable school need.

Through its numerous programs and extensive outreach, All Pro Dad is making a positive impact among youths and hopes to continue to do so in larger and larger ways. For more information, visit its website at www.allprodad.com or its Facebook page, All Pro Dad.

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

Dads and their kids engage in activities on the feld at Raymond James during the All Pro Dad Experience.

Once again, it is the first Tuesday of the month in Kings Point. And once again, thanks to the kind invitation and support of Vesta’s Matthew Permuth, Mabel Corcuera and Eddie Jacobs, Our Lady’s Pantry was invited to host a food drive on April 4.

“We appreciate this opportunity to restock our shelves with food,” said pantry director Tom Bullaro. “In fact, most of the donations collected in Kings Point on April 4 were probably in our families’ homes by the following Saturday, April 8. All in all, we received an estimated 3,000 pounds of food, plus monetary donations as well.”

According to Bullaro, the pantry’s supply of unexpired, nonperishable foods is low right now because of more individuals and families coming for food all the time, so donations are always welcome — and needed.

If you wish to donate, you can bring food donations directly to the pantry on Tuesday or Friday mornings. The pantry is located in the classroom building on

the far right-hand corner of the Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission campus, just south of Sun City Center Blvd., at 16650 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Wimauma. Some easy-tograb-and-donate food ideas are: pasta; boxed macaroni and cheese; sauces; canned food, such as tuna, chicken, beef stew, soup, beans, potatoes, vegetables, tomatoes and fruit; dried fruit; cake mix; crackers; cookies; rice; peanut butter; jelly; nuts; snacks (granola bars, individually wrapped candy and chips); condiments (salad dressing, ketchup and mayo); cofee, tea and cocoa; microwave popcorn; pie crusts; cereal; pop tarts; and drinks (juice, pop and water).

“We thank Kings Point residents for their care of those less fortunate than themselves,” said Bullaro. “We also thank pantry volunteers Karen, Mike, Joyce, Helen, Rhonda, Geri, Lyle and Doug for helping to make this food drive a success. Our Lady’s Pantry looks forward to being invited to Kings Point again, one day next fall.”

Our Lady’s Pantry is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, run entirely by volunteers. If you are part of a neighborhood or group that would like to include Our Lady’s Pantry as a project, to volunteer or learn more about the pantry, please visit www.ourladyspantry.com or email tom@ourladyspantry.com.

Our Lady’s Pantry is a 501(c)(3) that is entirely run by volunteers. To volunteer, visit www.ourladyspantry.com.

SouthShore Christian Women’s Luncheon

SouthShore Christian Women’s Connection is inviting you to join in the fun on Wednesday, May 10 from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center’s Life Enrichment Center on 1971 Haverford Ave. in Sun City Center. The luncheon’s entertainment guest is Arthur Hallett — a vocalist and songwriter who evangelizes in prisons and churches across the country and abroad. Also invited are the Happy Stitchers — a prayer shawl ministry of women who enjoy knitting, crocheting and having fun.

This luncheon is a celebration of spring, Mother’s Day and Kentucky Derby Day, and guests are encouraged to wear their favorite spring hat to the luncheon.

Call Amy at 317-414-9062 or email sscwcflorida@gmail.com for reservations. The cost is $20, and it is due by Friday, May 5.

Save Te Babies - Walk For Life, First Baptist Brandon

Come out with the family for an easy, fun way to get involved and make a diference for life at First Baptist Brandon’s Walk for Life. Join in as a pledge-raising walker. There is also a kids’ fun-run opportunity. Participants are encouraged to get sponsors to help them reach their fundraising goal. Local churches and groups are encouraged to register as a team.

There will be refreshments, games, face painting, balloons, music and more. The Walk for Life inspires a culture of life in our community. The walk takes place on Saturday, May 6 from 9-11 a.m. at First Baptist Brandon, located at 216 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon. For more information, call 813689-1204 or visit www.fbcbrandon.org.

An Evening With

Bob Gof At FishHawk Fellowship

FishHawk Fellowship

Church presents ‘An Evening with Bob Gof ’ on Friday, May 12 from 7-8:30 p.m. Gof is a renowned author of the newly released New York Times bestseller Undistracted, as well as the New York Times bestselling books Love Does, Everybody Always and Dream Big. He is a gifted public speaker who will bring an inspiring message of hope and joy, encouraging you to love others well and make a diference. General admission tickets are $20. There are also VIP meet-and-greet tickets, which include a signed copy of Everybody, Always, an exclusive meet and greet and advanced seating

time. FishHawk Fellowship Church is located at 15326 Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia. For more information visit www.fishhawkfc.org.

Win A Dream Home Rafe To Support Forgotten Angels

With your support, Forgotten Angels now has not just dozens of youth assisted, but also hundreds of kids now with jobs, cars, degrees and homes. The next stage of growth will be epic and will require a gigantic movement of people and resources as it expands into new cities, states and possibly other countries. Proceeds from Forgotten

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Angel’s Dream Home Rafe go toward benefiting our youth, building more tiny homes and expanding the circle of compassion Forgotten Angels provides. Tickets cost $25 for one entry, $100 for five entries and $1,000 for 50 entries.

Visit www.forgottenangelsflorida.org to purchase your tickets and help this amazing organization.

Get Ready For Te 17th Annual Bay Life Car Show & Craft Fair

The public is invited to come out to enjoy the 17th annual Bay Life Car Show and Craft Fair on Saturday, May 27 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon.

View more than 500 show cars, trucks and customs with live music and a DJ. There will be 50/50 drawings, door prizes, local craft and artisan vendors and yummy foods and beverages.

All proceeds fund student and adult mission trips. To enter your vehicle for the car show, please register your car at www.baylife.org/car-show/. Registration is free.

30th Annual National Day Of Prayer Brunch

Taking place in accord with the National Day of Prayer Task Force for the past 29 years, the Tampa Bay National Day of Prayer Brunch has brought together Bay area Christian men and women in prayer over our country and its leaders.

This 30th annual event is taking place on Thursday, May 4 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Armature Works located at 1910 N. Ola Ave. in Tampa. For more information, call 813-250-3725.

Finding a good home for things you don’t use anymore is a solid move any time of year. Donate items to ECHO’s new thrift store and you will be giving to people in crisis in our community.

ECHO’s mission is to assist residents of Hillsborough County in crisis with emergency food and clothing, ofering life-stabilizing programs and resources. ECHO has two resource centers, one in Brandon and one in Riverview. Its Brandon thrift store has provided clothing and housewares for the resource centers since 2021.

A second ECHO Thrift store is opening on Thursday, April 27 on Bloomingdale Avenue. The additional space will allow ECHO to process more donations, support more neighbors in need and create additional funding for ECHO’s many community initiatives.

ECHO Thrift’s manager, Annmarie Macaluso, loves the mission and community focus of ECHO.

“ECHO is community-based. We live here. We work here. We help here,” Macaluso said.

According to Macaluso, the new Bloomingdale store will primarily support the Riverview resource center. The support process will be the same as it has been for the Brandon resource center. Resource cen-

By Jane Owen

ters send invoices of what they need, the thrift stores fill the items and then they are picked up and taken to the centers daily.

Leftover items at the thrift stores are sold, and the profits support ECHO’s programming.

Macaluso explained that the new store provides more giveback to what ECHO is already doing but beyond that, it gives back to this area of the community.

“I look at our thrift store as its own give back to the community. We try to keep things here reasonable. People can come and shop and find nice things for their family. A lot of people are struggling who might not need assistance, but things are a little tight and we are more afordable,” Macaluso said.

ECHO’s Bloomingdale thrift store is located at 815 W. Bloomingdale Ave. It is open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Donation hours are 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on those days.

Donations of clothing and housewares are accepted. Baby seats, large toys and furniture (with the exception of small accent pieces) cannot be donated.

Visit https://echofl.org/. For specific thrift store information, select the “ECHO Thrift” tab on the website.

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR SUMMER 2023 SEMESTER AT HCC CAMPUSES

Summer 2023 registration is open for all new and returning students at Hillsborough Community College (HCC). Classes begin on Monday, May 15 online and at all campus and satellite locations.

Registration is available at www. hccfl.edu/registernow for existing students. Registration and application information for new students can be found at www. hccfl.edu/admissions.

HCC ofers flexible class schedules and course delivery options, which allow students to study at their own pace without compromising their work or family obligations. Options include:

• On-campus, with face-to-face instruction and scheduled class meetings at one of HCC’s five campuses or satellite locations.

• Hybrid courses, which combine in-person and online delivery.

• Simulcast courses, which combine online video conferencing and an on-campus component.

• Online, with live class meetings. Faculty and students are online at the same time for the class meetings with additional online work done on their own.

• Online, with no mandatory live class meetings. Instructor communication and feedback is through Canvas.

• Flexible-start courses that start at various times throughout the semester, including one 12-week session, one 10-week session, one eightweek session and three five-week sessions.

Tuition at HCC is significantly less than the cost of public universities, private colleges and for-profit institutions. The college was recently listed as the only Florida college with the lowest net price among other U.S. two-year public institutions, via the U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).

Hillsborough Community College serves more than 42,000 students annually at its five campuses located throughout Tampa Bay. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. For more information, visit the college website www.hccfl.edu.

Summer 2023 classes begin on Monday, May 15 at Hillsborough Community College. Registration is open for all new and returning students at all its satellite and campus locations, including Brandon, Te Regent, SouthShore and Plant City.

Annmarie Macaluso, ECHO Trift store manager, at ECHO’s new Bloomingdale thrift store.

Cason St., Plant City

Catholic Church

681-4608 Resurrection Catholic Church

Matthews Anglican Church

St. Stephen Catholic Church

10118

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

Apostles Lutheran Church

200 Kingsway Rd, Brandon

(813) 689-2571

Immanuel Lutheran Church

2913 John Moore Rd., Brandon

(813) 689-1787

Lutheran Church 2650 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico (813) 681-2375

METHODIST

Proverbs 20:19 (AMP)

19He who goes about as a gossip reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with a gossip [who talks freely or fatters].

In ancient Greece, Dr. Socrates, an intellectual and scholar, was reputed to hold knowledge in high esteem. One day an acquaintance of his met with the great philosopher and said, “Do you know what I just heard about one of your friends?” “Hold on a minute,” Dr. Socrates replied. “Before telling me anything, I’d like you to pass a little test. It’s called the Triple Filter Test.”3 “Triple Filter?” asked the man. “That’s right,” Dr. Socrates continued.

“Before you talk to me about my friend, it might be a good idea to take a moment and flter what you’re going to say. That’s why I call it the Triple Filter Test. The frst flter is Truth. Have you made absolutely sure that what you are about to tell me is true?” “No,” the man said, “actually I just heard about it and wanted to tell it to you.” “All right,” said Socrates.

Pastor’s Corner

Jomo Cousins, Ph.D.

GOSSIP

“So you don’t really know if it’s true or not. Now let’s try the second flter, the flter of Goodness. Is what you are about to tell me about my friend something good?”“No, on the contrary, it is bad.”

“So,” Socrates continued, “you want to tell me something bad about him, but you’re not certain it’s true. You may still pass the test though, because there’s one flter left: the flter of Usefulness. Is what you want to tell me about my friend going to be useful to me?” “No, not really,” replied the man.

“Well,” concluded Dr. Socrates, “if what you want to tell me is neither true, nor good, nor even useful to me, why tell it to me at all?”

When considering the reports of others, always question these 3 things:

A. Is it true, without a shadow of doubt, or an opinion?

B. Will it be good for others?

C. Will it be useful to me?

Prayer:

Father God, help me not to gossip or be a talebearer. Give me the wisdom to know when to speak and when to be quiet, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Except from: 60 Prayers in 60 Seconds Page 52

Hooked On Books: Honoring Your Mother

By Kelly Wise Valdes

As May ushers in a hint of summer and the ending to another school year, it’s also the month that we choose as a nation to honor our mothers this year on Sunday, May 14. Some of us may have been raised by strong Christian mothers, or maybe you were raised by a struggling single mom, or perhaps you were raised by a mother-figure like a grandmother or aunt. This day could also be a struggle for many of us who are currently moms and trying to figure out how to be a better version of ourselves for the sake of our children. This day could also be difcult for those who may have recently lost our mothers. Regardless of your situation, Mother’s Day is certainly a time to reflect on motherhood, parenting and the unconditional love that God has for His children. Whether you are a first-time mom, a single mom, a struggling mom, a working mom, a homeschooling mom, trying to become a mom, or a caregiver for your elderly mom, don’t lose site that we are all fiercely loved by our Heavenly Father. In Psalm 127:3 we are told, “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.” Have a blessed Mother’s Day.

Te Single Mom’s Devotional: A Book of 52 Encouraging Devotions

By Carol Floch

Through 52 devotional passages, this book shares the sisterhood of single moms how they can build their family’s nest in the protective shadow of God’s presence. Single mothers, whether on their own after a divorce or a husband’s death, will discover how to find true life in Christ and allow the strength of that inner life to be the compass.

Save for college and retirement? It’s possible.

Let’s make a plan. Contact me, and we’ll start with a free personalized college cost report.

Let’s make a plan. Contact me, and we’ll start with a free personalized college cost report.

Lord, Have Mercy: Help and Hope for Moms on Teir Last Nerve

By Ellen Miller

While motherhood is often a hysterical ride of pure joy, it can also hold some of the most mind-numbing, heartbreaking, and sacrificial moments of your life. This book speaks to moms who could use a good laugh (and sometimes a good cry) as they live through the trials and triumphs of parenting in the 21st century.

Te Christian Mama’s Guide to Baby’s First Year

By Erin MacPherson

An entertaining, practical guide for first-time mamas. The new mom initiation ritual involves sleepless nights, an unexplained obsession with baby booties, and more questions than answers. This book ofers relatable advice for new moms to feel confident including how you can manage to be a godly mother and a good wife on less than three hours of sleep a night.

Te Better Mom: Growing in Grace Between Perfection and the Mess

By Ruth Schwenk

This faith-based book invites you to grow out of the “mess” of motherhood and into a place where you can grow as a better, happier mom. Ruth encourages you to embrace the refining work of the Holy Spirit to help you and your family not just survive but thrive. The way to becoming a better mom starts not with what we are doing, but with who God is inviting us to become.

BRANDON PEST CONTROL BRINGS 50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE TO A SERVICE CALL

While people may not talk about bugs as much as the weather, insects can do a lot of damage, and when it comes to dealing with undesirable critters, there are very few local exterminators who can match the 50 years of experience that Brandon Pest Control in Valrico can proudly claim.

One indicator of the company’s success is that in 1973, when Rhode Island transplants Cookie and Lloyd Turchin founded Brandon Pest Control, they provided services to about 200 customers. That service base has grown to 4,500 customers throughout the local Tampa Bay area and beyond, including two ofces in Georgia, over the following half-century.

Termites may be the number one bug enemy for most structures, but the self-described bug muggers of Brandon Pest Control take on everything from rodents to earwigs in homes and businesses.

Technicians of Brandon Pest Control are trained in the latest eradication methods and put safety at the top of their considerations when on a service call. The staf of the company is also one of the most experienced to be found among pest-control operators in the area with many longtime employees. The Turchins attribute that

CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE IS BACK AT RP FUNDING WITH FIVE ALL-NEW ICONIC CONCERTS

By Brad Stager

stability to taking care of the people who take care of their customers.

“Our employees have been with us a long time,” Cookie and Lloyd said in a joint statement.

“We don’t like turnover. Some employees have been here for over 20 years. Our employees are reliable and dependable, from our technicians to our ofce staf Everyone is happy.”

Some of the things Brandon Pest Control does to keep customers happy include inviting customers to observe termite treatment operations, as much as safety considerations allow; using flow meters to ensure proper amounts of chemicals such as Termidor are used; cleaning all areas where work was performed; and patching drill holes. Interest-free financing is also available.

Some signs that termites have invaded your structure include seeing swarms of tiny insects; finding a lot of small, delicate wings around windows, doors and baseboards; and finding tiny holes in a wall.

To discover how Brandon Pest Control can take care of your pest problem, ask questions or request a free quote, visit its website at www.brandonpest.com or call 813-685-7711.

Are You Ready to Rock?

The RP Funding Center is excited to announce the 2023 series lineup for Classic Albums Live, as it returns with five iconic album performances. The RP Funding Center would like to thank Southern Homes for coming on board as an event sponsor for the 2023 series.

Performed “note for note, cut for cut,” the Classic Albums Live Concert Series starts of on Thursday, May 18 with a selection voted as one of Rolling Stone magazine’s ‘Greatest Albums of All Time,’ Tom Petty’s Damn the Torpedoes. Then, on Sunday, July 16, an album which has sold over 18 million copies worldwide, Supertramp’s Breakfast in America, followed by the platinum rock ’n’ roll Led Zeppelin album Physical Graffiti on Sunday, August 27, which combines several musical styles into one eclectic masterpiece. Next is the widely acclaimed, chart-topping 1983 album Synchronicity by the Police on Thursday, October 19, and wrapping up the series is Classic Albums Live’s Lithium Show, featuring the music of Nirvana, Stone

Temple Pilots, Alice in Chains, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden and others on Friday, December 15.

The start time for all performances is 7:30 p.m.

To see all five of these great performances performed “note for note, cut for cut,” then look no further and become a Classic Albums Live Series subscriber. For $170, you get a ticket to each concert, preferred seating, free parking and 10 percent of concessions, plus a savings of over $30 when purchasing a subscription.

The new-subscriber series passes are on sale now. Single tickets go on sale starting Friday, April 21 at 9 a.m. Service charges may apply. Series passes are available by visiting the RP Funding Center Box Ofce or calling 863-834-8111. For event information, visit www.rpfundingcenter.com. Dates and ticket prices are subject to change without notice.

The RP Funding Center is conveniently located minutes between Orlando and Tampa in Lakeland, of I-4 on Lime Street, just a short drive from anywhere in Central Florida. Regular box ofce hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For ticket information, call the center’s box office or visit its website.

flavorful eats and mouthwatering treats while enjoying some

the biggest names in country, pop, rock and more!

ALAFIA RIVER CANOE RENTALS HAS BEEN LOCAL SOURCE ON THE ALAFIA FOR NEARLY 50 YEARS

By Jonathan Hurst

For those looking for a fun activity for the whole family or maybe just an afternoon in nature, look no further than Alafia River Canoe Rentals, located on the banks of the Alafia River just of of Lithia Pinecrest Road. Tucked among the trees, Alafia River Canoe Rentals has served the Southeastern Hillsborough County area for close to 50 years. For a mere $25 for a full day’s rental of a canoe, it is difcult not to have a good time navigating the twists and turns of the Alafia.

When you pull up to Alafia River Canoe, you are quickly greeted by owner and founder Sybil (who prefers her last name not be used), from where she operates the business beneath her house, as she has for decades. From the time you approach the stand to when you return to the docks, Sybil is the epitome of customer service. With her answering any questions you may have about the river and the area she knows like the back of her hand, you can feel confident that you will have a great day on the river when renting here. This long-standing business came to be in 1976 when Sybil’s husband went out to get a canoe to navigate the periodi-

EXPRESS OIL CHANGE & TIRE ENGINEERS IS A ONE-STOP SHOP

By Libby Hopkins

cal flood waters that would come around their house — and ultimately returned with four of them. Over the next decade or so, those four canoes grew into a fleet of canoes and kayaks, peaking close to 200 in the 1990s. While the success sparked two other canoe rentals nearby in the past, in 2023, Alafia River Canoe Rentals stands alone as the oldest canoe rental for the Alafia River.

“We just stuck it out through the floods and some tougher times, and we are still here,” Sybil said.

While it has sold of about half of those canoes in recent times, that has not led a downturn, as the company is firmly entrenched in the community it serves, and there are no plans to go anywhere anytime soon. Most popular in the springtime, as that is when the river is the most stable, it attempts to operate year-round.

If you find yourself interested, it is recommended to call ahead of time to make sure the river is navigable. For more information, call 813-689-8645 or visit its Facebook page, Alafia River Canoe Rentals. It is located at 4419 River Dr. in Valrico.

Jeremy Persinger, is the owner and operator of Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, located in Riverview. His Riverview business has been family-owned and operated since 2020. Persinger had another location that he opened in Bradenton in 2018. “I started with corporate Express Oil Change in 2015,” Persinger said. “Express Oil Change was in express expansion mode, and they had just acquired Tire Engineers, so they brought me on to help grow both businesses because they knew they were going to co-brand the businesses.”

Persinger said that many businesses call themselves a one-stop shop, but he feels his business truly is one. “A lot of places can do your oil changes very quickly, but they can’t do tires or mechanical services,” Persinger said. “So, if you need brakes or other vehicle services, they have to send you somewhere else. We are really one of the national brands that can do both.”

If you ask Persinger what he likes most about what he does at Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, he will tell you: everything. “I truly love being a part of the team, and I love interacting with our customers. We’ll even make you a cup of cofee if you ask.”

In order to deliver a consistent customer experience every time, Persinger’s

advice is, “Don’t do anything you don’t already do on a daily basis.”

Persinger is also active with the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation and has been on the board since 2008, chairing two fishing events as well as the marketing committee for the foundation. Since becoming a part of the organization, they have raised over $30 million towards fighting Pediatric Cancer and have watched the survival rate go from three out of five kids to four out of five kids in that time frame. “Each clinical trial we put these kids through costs about $15K,” Persinger said. “We pay for all of it for them, and we pray for a day that there is not a need for what we do at the Pediatric Cancer Foundation.”

Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.6 p.m. and on Saturday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; it is closed on Sunday.

For more information about Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, visit its website at www.expressoil.com/stores/riverview/ fl/0831/ or call 813-499-9606. The shop is located at 11690 Boyette Rd. in Riverview, next to Culver’s.

REGISTER NOW FOR 2023 SUMMER CAMP!

Also hiring for 2023 Summer Camp Counselors & Runners.

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Sybil, owner and operator of Alafa River Canoe Rentals, has maintained this local business since 1976.

Jeremy Persinger, owner and operator of Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers in Riverview.

His Riverview business has been family-owned and operated since 2020.

ALEXSTRONG FOUNDATION HOSTS BASS TOURNAMENT TO SUPPORT YOUNG NOLA SALLING

By Lily Belcher

The AlexStrong Foundation is hosting its seventh annual Bass Tournament to support a local Gibsonton kid battling leukemia on Saturday, May 13.

Nola Salling has been battling leukemia for two years now since being diagnosed at 5 years old. She is receiving treatment from St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Tennessee. Salling and her family are hoping she can get healthy enough to receive a bone marrow transplant to help fight the cancer.

“This is our seventh annual fishing tournament, and with these tournaments, and other fundraisers and the support of the community, we have been able to donate over $150,000 to local families in need,” said AlexStrong founder Lori Sumner.

The Bass Tournament will take place at the Grape Hammock Fish Camp on Lake Kissimmee, located at 1400 Grape Hammock Rd. in Lake Wales, for $60 per boat for one or two participants. The tournament will start at first safe light, followed by a weigh-in at 2 p.m. Participants can preregister on Facebook or register in person the morning of the event. Each pair can catch up to six bass, and first through third-place winners will receive a cash prize.

MCAULEY FINE JEWELRY CELEBRATES WITH NEW NEARBY LOCATION

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

Following the fishing tournament, the AlexStrong Foundation will host a rafe. The rafe will have a mix of fishing/hunting gear, gift baskets, gift cards, kid items and other prizes.

In addition to raising money for Salling through the tournament and rafe, the AlexStrong Foundation is accepting individual donations and corporate sponsorships. Sponsor logos will be displayed on a banner at the event. All donations and sponsorships are tax-deductible.

“We are so thankful to the people that continue to donate and help support our mission to pay forward all the kindness that was shown to our family when Alex was sick. We love keeping his memory alive by helping other families,” said Lori.

The AlexStrong Foundation was started in memory of Alex Sumner, who died of cancer in 2017. The foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports families with children facing life-threatening illnesses. The money raised at the Bass Tournament will go to the Salling family to help fund treatments.

For more information on the AlexStrong Foundation or this year’s Bass Tournament and rafe, visit its Facebook page or contact Lori at 813-493-2557.

One of the community’s staple jewelry and repair shops has purchased a new storefront right in the heart of Brandon.

McAuley Fine Jewelry is now located at 201 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon and is excited to host a new grand opening event this summer.

Though McAuley Fine Jewelry is still waiting on some final touches before it opens the new doors, the team is eager to share the new store with customers.

“We’re really excited to have had the opportunity to buy a building in the heart of Brandon. It’s literally the building directly behind ours,” said Jennifer McAuley, co-owner of McAuley Fine Jewelry.

Through the move, two tenants remain in the building, Divine Glow Aesthetics and Carmen’s Tailoring, while Audibel Hearing Center has moved to a location near Bill’s Prescription Center.

McAuley Fine Jewelry ofers experienced team members to aid with jewelry and watch repairs, custom design work as well as purchasing your gold. The shop has a tight group of employees, many of whom stayed with McAuley Fine Jewelry after Martin’s Jewelers closed. The team mem-

bers at McAuley Fine Jewelry have a wide skill set to assist customers.

When designing a piece, the experts at the shop suggest doing research online to find images of jewelry you like. This will give inspiration and direction for the team to help create the perfect piece at your consultation. If there is a specific item you are looking for that McAuley Fine Jewelry does not have, many times the team will be able to order from one of McAuley Fine Jewelry’s U.S. vendors with next-day delivery.

When the owners of Martin’s Jewelers retired in 2017, the McAuley family took over the storefront to continue serving the area as the previous owners had. McAuley Fine Jewelry is now moving into a new building near the old location in order to continue growing and help more customers with their jewelry needs. And while it may not be Martin’s Jewelers anymore, the beloved owner of Martin’s Jewelers, Joe Martin, still works for the shop, claiming he failed retirement. McAuley Fine Jewelry is located just to the rear of its original location. Visit https://mcauleyfinejewelry. com/or call the store at 813-689-8124.

Te AlexStrong Foundation is raising money to support 7-year-old Nola Salling, who is battling leukemia.

McAuley Fine Jewelry had spent the month of March moving and organizing while getting ready to open the new storefront.

FAITH & FOOTPRINTS

Church of the Assumption- Lake Bled, Slovenia

According to legend, the temple of the ancient Slavic goddess Ž iva once stood where the present Church of the Assumption is located on the tiny island of Lake Bled, Slovenia. Slovenia is a small Country in central Europe just south of Austria. The legendary temple was destroyed during battles between the followers of the pagan religion and Christians.

On the island, archaeologists have discovered traces of settlements dating back to the 11th - 8th centuries B.C. where 124 graves with skeletons were found. The first masonry church on the island, a three-nave Romanesque Basilica was dedicated in 1142. However, in the 1465 the church was rebuilt in the Gothic style that included a freestanding bell tower and the main altar.

In 1509 it was damaged by an earthquake and was rebuilt again. Unfortunately, only the paintings in the nave and a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary were preserved from the destroyed church.

The current church dates back to the 1747 century when it was renovated after yet another earthquake.

By Kelly Wise Valdes

The main altar was built with rich gold-plated carvings and the central altarpiece highlights a seated Virgin Mary. The bell tower was renovated several times due to damage by the earthquakes as well as being struck by lightning in 1688. The present tower is 16 stories high and has three bells.

Of special interest is the “wishing bell” located high above the church nave. According to the legend, a young widow who lived on the island had a bell casted for the chapel in memory of her husband. During the transport of the bell, a terrible storm struck the boat and the bell and crew sank. Legend says that to this day the bell rings in the depths of the lake. After the widow died, the Pope consecrated a new bell and sent it to the Bled Island. Visitors to the church are encouraged to ring the bell and make a wish. But there’s one rule - you can make only one wish.

The church can be reached by boat and is a working church, popular visitor’s attraction and wedding venue. For more information, visit https://zupnija-bled. si/.

Live Like You Mean It ...

“God’s Glorious Standard” Means We Need Jesus More Than Ever

“For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins,” (Romans 3:23-4).

Typically, I don’t have any trouble coming up with a direction when it comes to writing a column. There is usually enough going on that’s begging for some kind of commentary. But today I got stuck, so I went to www. biblegateway.com and read the “verse of the day.”

I was immediately taken with the New Living Translation’s take on the familiar words. “God’s glorious standard” reminds

me that I was not created in a random way but that God has so much for me in terms of hope and promise and expectation, such an investment of love.

Like our own children. Good grief, how Rebekah and I talked and dreamed and peered into the future when Andrew and then Naomi were infants. We are fallible, and inconsistent, and limited in imagination, and saddled with narrow vision. We are rooted in the status quo and hobbled by our own expectations. God,

though, gifted our children with so much more possibility than our ideas, and over the years they both broke free from our plan, and all we could do was to stand aside and watch — amazed, stunned and frightened sometimes — as they became more who God purposed and made their own way into the world.

So, God watches me, watches you, and it is not our parents’ hopes and dreams but “God’s glorious standard” that counts. And so of course I need Jesus; our children do

By Derek Maul

too. We all need that grace that makes us “right in [God’s] sight.”

Easter is our reference point because it was through victory over death that Jesus “freed us from the penalty for our sins.” It’s a good thing we are still young enough to continue to grow, and to fall short, and to trust Jesus, and — in every way — to be made right in God’s sight.

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

Church Cancels $3 Million in Medical Debt of 3,355 Families

To Demonstrate Christ’s Love

A North Carolina church has helped cancel more than $3 million of medical debt for 3,355 area families, saying it was driven by the words of Christ about love and forgiveness. Trinity Moravian Church in Winston-Salem, N.C., purchased nearly $3.3 million of outstanding medical debt and then held a debt-burning ceremony.

The congregation raised $15,047 as part of its Debt Jubilee Project and then worked with RIP Medical Debt, a nonprofit organization that helps cancel medical debt. RIP Medical Debt purchases medical debt in bundles, “millions of dollars at a time at a fraction of the original cost,” according to its website. The organization sent letters to 3,355 families on behalf of the church, telling them their debt had been forgiven. The average medical debt forgiven was about $1,000, the church said on its Facebook page. For more information, visit www.ripmedicaldebt.org.

Grammy-Nominated Singer Tauren Wells to Plant Church in Texas: ‘We Cannot Wait’

Grammy-nominated Christian singer Tauren Wells has announced that he and his wife Lorna will plant a church in the Austin, Texas, region next year that will be a “vibrant, life-giving” congregation for the people of that community.

The new church, called the Church of Whitestone, will be located in Georgetown, about 30 miles north of Austin. The couple made the announcement on their Instagram pages.

“Well, our party of six, is setting out on the adventure of a lifetime, packing up our

lives in Houston, and following our calling to love, serve, and inspire the city and surrounding communities of north Austin, Texas,” Wells wrote. “Through the planting of a vibrant, life-giving, community of faith, Church of Whitestone, we are assuming our calling as lead pastors of the church that God placed in our heart more than 10 years ago.”

Wells is a 10-time Grammy nominee and seven-time Dove Award winner and is known for such songs as Hills and Valleys, which spent 36 weeks on Billboard’s Hot Christian Songs chart. His new song Up was on the same chart for 22 weeks. For more information visit www.taurenwells.com.

Chris Tomlin Honors Covenant Families during Concert

Grammy-winning Christian artist Chris Tomlin honored the staf and students from The Covenant School during his popular Good Friday concert, bringing members of the Covenant community on stage and an-

nouncing a fund that will benefit the needs of the Nashville school that was the target of a mass shooting.

Tomlin invited a Covenant teacher along with five students and two Covenant parents on stage along with Metro Nashville Police Chief John Drake. Tomlin said about 200 Covenant families and 200 families from the Nashville Police Force were at the concert.

Proceeds from the concert benefited Covenant families as well as a foundation for children and families of fallen police officers and first responders. It was the seventh year for the “Good Friday Nashville” concert, which is one of the most popular Christian concerts of the year in Nashville and benefits local charities.

By Kelly Wise Valdes

The school announced last week that it will finish the current academic year at a nearby congregation, Brentwood Hills Church of Christ. For more information visit www. christomlin.com,

Comedic Icon

Chonda Pierce Stars in Film, “Roll With It”

The Queen of Clean Comedy and the Recording Industry Association of America’s most decorated female comic, Chonda Pierce, today announced that her upcoming film, Roll With It, will premiere in theaters nationwide starting on Tuesday, May 9. The feature-length comedy weaves an inspiring and hilarious story of strength, family values and faith. Pierce playing a single mother who readjusts to life after the loss of her husband. Roll With It premieres in more than 750 theaters across the U.S. on Tuesday May 9, Thursday May 11, and Saturday May 13 through Fathom Events. For Pierce, Roll With It is the latest project in a career whose highlights include platinum-certified comedy albums, regular performances at the Grand Ole Opry, and five Daytime Emmy nominations. Christian music legend Michael W. Smith, country hitmaker Jake Owen, Shari Rigby and others make cameo appearances.

Pierce, Chonda Pierce is America’s best-selling female comedian of all time. She performs more than 80 comedy shows annually and has sold more than 3.5 million concert tickets throughout her career. Pierce will be touring America on both sides of the film’s theatrical release. For information, visit www.chonda.org.

ADULT CARE CENTER RECEIVES BASKETBALL COURT GIFT

Margaret Montgomery is a local author and owner of Destiny Quality Care in Brandon. She has worked in the healthcare field for more than 30 years. She retired from the H. Lee Moftt Cancer Center of 27 years.

Montgomery is also an allied healthcare instructor and has taught in the field of allied health for 13 years.

“Destiny Quality Care is an up and coming ‘Life Enrichment Training Day Program’ for persons with disabilities,”

Montgomery said. “We are located in the heart of Brandon.”

Destiny Quality Care’s motto is serving and caring with excellence. Recently, Montgomery and her staf were served with a gift of love and care from some local Brandon residents. “These days, it seems like we hear of so many bad and horrible things that involve police ofcers, Montgomery said. “The mother of one of our consumers is a master deputy for Hillsborough County Sherif ’s Ofce. It was placed upon Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Cribbs’ heart to donate and create a basketball court for the individuals that attend Destiny Quality Care. Our center is located on approximately four acres of land, however, we still had to drive the consumers to our local park for them to partake in playing basketball, foursquare and hopscotch among other outside activities.”

By Libby Hopkins

Thanks to the Cribbs’ Destiny Quality Care’s consumers have a basketball court that displays the court, four square and hopscotch on the organization’s property. “We did not ask for this blessing,” Montgomery said.

“This couple took it upon themselves to make this donation, which Mr. Cribbs did the work. I am so grateful for this basketball court along with my ‘precious gems’ which is what I call them. They are jewels and gems to me.”

The smiles on Montgomery’s consumers’ faces when they saw the new court were priceless to Montgomery and her staf. “We have approximately 25 consumers,” Montgomery said. “When I see them playing on the court, it brings tears to my eyes because they are able to participate in various activities all at once. Now, they do not have to go five days a week to the Brandon Recreation Center to play basketball. The clients can now play foursquare, hopscotch and basketball right here at our facility.”

If you’d like to learn more about Destiny Quality Care, you can visit their website at www.destinyqualitycare.org. Destiny Quality Care is located at 711 N. Parsons Ave. in Bradon.

HOW DOES SCREEN TIME AFFECT YOUR CHILD’S LEARNING?

Technology is an integral part of life, dominating the way we communicate, learn, work and more. Today’s children spend a lot of time on smartphones and computers, leaving many parents to wonder about the impact of all that screen time. So how exactly does screen time afect your child’s learning and development?

The Positive Efects of Screen Time

Starting with the good, there’s no question that access to digital media has positives for students of all ages. Technology opens up worlds of opportunity to learn and research. Here are just a few of its many benefits:

• Technology and apps aid in learning. There’s an app for everything, whether your child is learning to read or practicing algebra concepts.

• The internet makes it easy to access new information. A quick Google search can help your child discover just about anything.

• Social media can bring people together. Children often use social media to communicate and connect with others.

By Dr. Raymond J. Huntington

The Negative Efects of Screen Time

While there are definitely advantages of technology, screen time impacts children’s brains and behavior. Here are some of the negative efects of screen time on children and their learning:

• Decreased focus. Frequent use of digital devices can make it increasingly more difcult for children to maintain focus on things like homework.

• Distraction during class. Many teachers today make it a policy that students’ phones must be stowed in their backpacks during class — and for good reason.

• Disrupted sleep. Blue light-emitting screens can suppress the secretion of melatonin, a hormone produced by the brain in response to darkness that helps people sleep.

• Loss of interest in other things. Like many enjoyable activities, use of digital devices can be all-consuming — and difcult for some to stop doing.

Screen time is a hot topic these days, but it’s important to keep things in perspective. Not all screen time is bad, and many children develop healthy screen time habits with the help of supportive parents. If your child struggles with healthy screen time or study habits, call Huntington at 1-800 CAN LEARN (226-5327).

Destiny Quality Care’s motto is serving and caring with excellence. Recently, the organization was served with a gift of love and care from some local Brandon residents.

BELL CREEK ACADEMY PITCHER FRITSCH THROWS PERFECT GAME; SECOND OF HIS CAREER

Bell Creek Academy senior pitcher Tyler Fritsch realized he was in the midst of a special outing in the fourth inning when he noticed the opposing lead-of hitter taking practice swings in the on-deck circle between innings. Fortunately, Fritsch had been in the exact same spot the prior year against the same team and knew what it would take to be perfect.

“My fastball was very much on, I could throw it wherever I wanted it,” he said. “I noticed that the zone was consistently low and I could just hit my spot every time with my fastball, and my changeup was on too, so it was really easy to keep the batters of balance with the fastball-changeup combination.”

The pressure was of of Fritsch because he had already thrown a perfect game against Cambridge Christian last year. He has carried the confidence from that game into his hot start early this season.

“I didn’t think much about it because I came in with the mentality that I already threw one,” said Fritsch. “I go into every game thinking, ‘You already threw a perfect game, so you can’t really do much better, so don’t think about it too much.’ If I lost it, I wasn’t going to be too concerned about it, so I just kept dealing with that poise and composure, I guess. You can’t beat a perfect game, it’s about as good as it gets.”

Fritsch was on the same page as his battery mate, senior catcher Jacob Ananias,

By Nick Nahas

who was calling the pitches. The pitcher was comfortable with his catcher, who previously caught all of his starts this season. Fritsch only needed 66 pitches in six innings while striking out 12 batters to complete the perfect game. The Panthers mercy-ruled the Lancers.

“My reaction after the last out was relief and shock because by the fourth inning, everyone knew what was going on and all we wanted to do was keep from jinxing it,” said Ananias. “I have never caught a perfect game before and, I gotta say, it’s a great thing to be a part of.”

The senior enjoyed his second career perfect game a little more than the first because he was able to record the last out and finish the game on the mound. His team’s 10-run ruled Cambridge Christian in the bottom of the inning on ofense the last time.

“I am so grateful that I was able to be a part of something so special and am glad I get to catch a pitcher of this level,” said Ananias.

The pitcher gives credit to his coach, Frank Burke, who he’s played with for seven seasons at Bell Creek.

“It doesn’t take a perfect outing every time to win games,” said Fritsch. “My team trusts me a lot, so it makes it a lot easier to go out and do my job when you know that everyone has your back.”

DOWNTOWN MURALS CREATE OUTDOOR ART MUSEUM

What do Tom Brady, Tweety Bird and Freddy Mercury all have in common?

They are all subjects of murals located in beautiful Downtown Tampa! Whether you drive, bike or scooter, find a beautiful day and trek to the city for a fun and adventurous mural tour!

From Ybor City to the Channelside District to Ashley Street, there is an eclectic collection of art, much of which was commissioned by the City of Tampa. For an interesting an in-depth compilation, you can visit tampasdowntown.com or google Tampa’s Downtown Mural Tour.

To highlight a small, yet dense, sampling of the mural art in Tampa, we start at Cass Street, West of Nebraska Avenue, where you will find the Tampa Firefighter’s Museum on your left with a beautifully painted flag covering the entire north side of the building. On the right, see one of Tampa’s largest murals, on the Navara Apartments, featuring legendary musicians Elton John, Freddie Mercury and Jimi Hendrix.

Head North on to Florida Avenue and discover a plethora of interesting murals, including a few pictures of Tom Brady and

By Kerrie Hoening

the famous “Florida Avenue Mural”, also known as the “Tampa Postcard”, depicting images of Tampa’s past and present. Head further north, crossing under the I-275 corridor, and you suddenly happen upon a whole new world of wall art on every building. On neighboring Franklin Street, many of the murals cover entire buildings! If driving, you’ll probably need to park and then enjoy a leisurely stroll around the whole block.

After a brief respite at Armature Works, you’ll head South on Tampa Street, driving back toward the city. Here, at 1715 N Tampa St, you will find the poignant Kobe and Gianna Bryant mural, lovingly titled, “Daddy’s Little Girl”. A little further down, you’ll also notice a couple of Tweety Bird murals, freshy painted to celebrate the 80th birthday of Tweety Bird! As you cross back under the interstate, Tampa’s newest mural, only weeks old, can be found on the right, stating the obvious for all who live in our great city, “We Love Downtown”!

LAKE BRANDON VILLAGE

11325 Causeway Blvd • Brandon (813) 655-1237

Hours: 6:30am - 10pm

BRANDON SOUTH 2010 Bloomingdale Ave • Valrico (813) 571-0569

Saint Anne Catholic Church

Saint Anne Catholic Church

Saint Anne Catholic Church

Vigil Sunday8

~Masses~

~Masses~

Vigil Saturday 4:30 p.m.

Monday-Friday Wednesday &

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)

Te Doors of Te Church Are Open

Church Services 10am Sunday

Youth & Teens Church School 9:00 a.m.

Kingdom Builders 10:00 a.m. (Children’s Church ages 2-10)

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.

Bible Study 7pm Tuesday (adults) Via Zoom

Wednesday Prayer Via Zoom

7 pm Tuesday (teens) Via Zoom

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.

Community Food Pantry

&

Te church will be open weekdays for private prayer between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m.

For more information, please check the St. Anne website.

-2:00

Registration is now open for the 2021-2022 Faith Formation year. Please call the ofce for more information.

Reconciliation Tues. at 8:30 a.m., Tur. at 6 p.m., Sat. at 3:15 p.m. and by appointment. For more information, please check the St. Anne website.

U.S. Hwy. 41 • 106 11th Ave NE • Ruskin SaintAnneRuskin.org • 813-645-1714

Photo courtesy of Shadarra Welton Tyler Fritsch knew he was throwing a perfect game by the fourth inning.

Journeying to the past and taking a stroll down memory lane is no longer just a possibility for residents of Tessera Brandon, but rather a reality made feasible by the facility’s newest amenities: memory care stations. Memory care stations are designed to elicit long-term memories by recreating familiar situations from the past. Tailored to residents sufering from Alzheimer’s and dementia, Jill Andrew, director of marketing at Tessera Brandon, stated that implementing these new technologies was an inevitable step in revolutionizing the care ofered by the senior assisted living and memory care community.

“It was just time,” said Andrew, “and the residents themselves wanted to do something meaningful for memory care.”

Located within the niches and insets of the facility’s hallways, these spaces are organized in a manner that makes them easily accessible to residents, whether they are

visiting the life stations independently or participating in activities alongside their peers. Because the purpose of these stations is to encourage these individuals to recall elements of their past more readily, the current stations are decorated to resemble five aspects of everyday life.

The music station was the first one finished, featuring an antique piano and a backdrop decorated with piano keys that adorn the wall. Additional instruments available for use in this space include ukeleles, xylophones, maracas and tambourines. Incorporating scarves, hats,

costume jewelry and purses, the vanity station features a vanity and is meant to imitate the practice of getting ready.

Complete with stufed and electronic animals, the pet life station intends to evoke past memories of time spent with furry friends. Items such as brushes encourage residents to interact with these props. The handyman station is a workbench that includes highgrade tool replicas.

Lastly, the tactile/sensory station features materials like a plaque covered in feathers and common household items like marbles.

Alongside purchasing new items and

By Madeline Gardner

making use of current materials, Tessera Brandon regularly accepts donations from members of the surrounding community. By working with networking groups of the Greater Riverview and Valrico FishHawk chambers of commerce, for example, Tessera Brandon has been able to incorporate items such as purses, brushes and jewelry to fill these spaces.

“Our community around here is just phenomenal,” said Andrew. “People want to do good, people want to give back, and so it’s an opportunity for them to do so.”

Andrew states that the next station will likely feature either an ofce or a nursery design.

For more information on memory care stations and additional opportunities available at Tessera Brandon, please visit www. tesserabrandon.com or call 813-607-6880. Tessera Brandon is located at 1320 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

HIGH 5 INC. TO HOST FREE COMMUNITY EVENT FOR 60TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

By Lily Belcher

High 5 Inc. is celebrating its 60th anniversary on Saturday, May 20 with free activities and games for the community and the dedication of their new memorial garden.

The event will be held to celebrate 60 years of teaching community members of all ages how to swim and be safe in the water. High 5 will host games, guest speakers, activities and food for those who come to the celebration.

“This will be a free community event where not only will we be celebrating 60 years of impact and driving our mission in the Brandon community and beyond, but we will also be hosting our Blue Wave Swim-A-Thon, Candy Corsi Memorial Garden Dedication, Pool Project Dedication [and] celebrating National Learn to Swim Day,” said director of family experience Jada Spano.

The Memorial Garden will be dedicated to Candy Corsi, former director of Training and Recreation for the Intellectually Disabled, Enhancing Their Natural Talents (TRIDENT), who passed away in 2021.

“Her two sons still remain in the program today, and High 5/Team TRIDENT wanted to create a way to celebrate her forever,” said Spano. “… All proceeds ben-

THE POWERFUL PARABLES OF JESUS THE GOOD SAMARITAN

By Kelly Wise Valdes

efit our special-needs education pillar by providing supplies and resources for projects just like this one.”

Team TRIDENT has learned hydroponics and basic craftsmanship skills during the construction of the memorial garden. While the garden is still being built, it will be dedicated at the event to encourage the community to visit in the future.

In addition to six decades of teaching individuals how to swim, High 5 has served the community with an emphasis on its five pillars: after-school, learn to swim, special-needs education, sports and recreation and community partnerships.

“We encourage families, friends, athletes, past/present program participants, community leaders and businesses, and everyone else, to come enjoy this memorable day with us,” said Spano.

The anniversary celebration will take place at the High 5 facility from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. High 5 is located of U.S. Highway 60 on Beverly Boulevard.

To donate to the memorial garden, visit https://qtego.net/donate/trident. For more information on the nonprofit organization, visit their website at www.high5inc.org or call 813-689-0908.

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. Jesus used these short stories to relay important instructions and lessons in ordinary language. There are more than 30 parables in the Bible, each with its own dynamic lesson.

The Good Samaritan is a popular and powerful parable that teaches what it means to love your neighbor. The widely recognized expression ‘Good Samaritan’ originated from this parable. A Good Samaritan is a person who helps someone in need, regardless if there is no reward or if it’s inconvenient. When Jesus explained that the way to eternal life is to love God and love our neighbors as ourselves, He was questioned about the definition of ‘neighbor.’ He used the parable to explain what it means to love our neighbors.

The parable can be found in Luke 10: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half

dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him.”

At the time, the Samaritans and Jewish people didn’t associate. In the parable, the man that was beaten, robbed and left half-dead lying in the street was a Jew. He was ignored by a passing priest and Levite, both of whom should have helped. The least likely person to help was the Samaritan, but he was the only one who did.

The message this parable teaches is as important today as it was more than 2,000 years ago. We are called to help those in need, even if the person doesn’t look like us, speak our language or have our same belief system. We are called to help those in need.

Although conflicts and hate exist today between groups of people, God commanded that we must love one another. We show the love of Jesus through our actions of loving our neighbors as God has loved us.