www.christianvoicemonthly.com www.christianvoicemonthly.com B r a n d o n • Va l r i c o • L i t h i a • S e f f n e r • R i v e r v i e w • P l a n t C i t y • A p o l l o B e a c h Volume 23, Issue 5
Summer Camp
A Free Publication from Osprey Observer Inc.
May 2019
Family Promise Of Hillsborough County Receives Two Distinguished Awards
By Amanda Boston
25-32
VBS Camps 6-7
Concert 3
When families are faced Small Nonprofit Award,’ which with homelessness, Family recognizes organizations with a Promise, a nonprofit organizabudget under $500,000 that has tion, exists explicitly to keep fama significant impact on the comilies together. While typical munity. homeless shelters separate men Edwina Reddick, executive from women, which often director of Family Promise of includes young adolescent boys Hillsborough County, said, “It was from their mothers, Family such an honor and very humPromise’s unique setup affords bling to be selected as the winfamilies the ability to stay togethner. First time in a long time I er. was speechless.” With assistance from local Family Promise of church congregations, church Hillsborough County operates buildings provide temporary Pictured is Family Promise’s Edwina Reddick, executive director, with minimal staffing but makes and Deborah Humphrey, president of the board directors, receivin- a major impact on the communishelter as families work toward gan award from WEDU. attaining permanent and sustainty. The nonprofit heavily relies on able housing. The 90-day program equips its generous volunteers, congregations families with a plan to become self-suffiand donors. Without volunteers and cient through training in financial literacy donors, Family Promise would cease to and case-by-case management of exist. resources and services. When asked about needs, Reddick Family Promise is part of a national replied, “Currently, we need more host movement that began 28 years ago. facilities; volunteers for the Day Center on uted more than 11,000 pounds of food to Today, the national organization has the weekend; toilet paper, paper towels graduate families and others in need in 180,000 volunteers that serve more than both the single fold and roll kind; and the community. 50,000 people annually. The Hillsborough monetary donations.” Family Promise attended the County Family Promise opened its doors Family Promise has 12 host faciliCommunity Roundtable of Brandon’s on May 4, 2014. To date, the local nonties—most of which are houses of worannual dinner on February 27 and was profit has graduated 46 families to safe ship. Reddick said Family Promise is awarded ‘Nonprofit of the Year.’ Then the and affordable housing. Among those open to using other facilities as host sites. following day at the ‘WEDU Be More families were 99 school-aged children. To learn more on how you can donate or Empowered’ luncheon, Family Promise Last year, through the partnership with volunteer, please visit www.familypromisereceived the ‘Ultimate Medical Academy, Manna Ministries, Family Promise distribfl.org or call 681-6170.
Driven Church Merges With Radiant Church Of Tampa
By Amanda Boston
Books 21
Columns: GraceNotes:
Page 5
Your Monthly Catch: Page 8 Faith & Footprints:
Page 13
Hooked On Books:
Page 21
Driven Church of Brandon After envisioning how their recently merged with Radiant churches could work together, Church of Tampa. With multithey decided to combine. ple locations in the Tampa Bay Regarding the transition, area, former members of Pastor Tavarez said, “Between Driven Church are now attendnow and August, we will be ing Radiant Church locations engaged in community events until its Brandon location and interest meetings in launches in August. Brandon.” He continued, “I Radiant Church describes think this is going to be huge itself as “a life-giving and as we unite for the Kingdom of dynamic church that exists to Jesus in Brandon.” move people from where they Pastor Burke added, are to where God wants them “There are so many things to be.” It is one church with that we could do separately, three locations, and soon to be and it would make a little bit of four with the addition of the an impact, but I think togethBrandon location. Pastor Joon er...we can collaborate to do Pastor Aaron Burke (far right), Pastor Joon Tavarez and his wife more.” Tavarez, former pastor of Elizabeth recently announced that Driven Church of Brandon Driven Church, will be the locaPastor Burke went on to would merge with Radiant Church. tion pastor for the Brandon campus. say that Radiant Church will be buildIn 2013, Pastor Aaron Burke and ing on top of the great foundation that his wife, Katie, relocated to Tampa Bay Driven Church has already laid in the to plant Radiant Church South Tampa. Brandon community. The official Since then, Radiant Church has continlaunch of its Brandon location and first ued to grow with its casual atmospublic Sunday service will be held on phere, dynamic worship music and relAugust 18. evant messages. With multiple locaAs Pastor Burke and Pastor tions, the sermons are preached at one Tavarez plan for the opening of the location and streamed to the other Brandon location, you can stay up to Pastor Burke and Pastor Tavarez campuses. Information on locations and date at https://weareradiant.com/brantimes can be found at https://weareradi- are dear friends who lead churches don/. Location and times are still with a similar mission and make-up. ant.com. being determined.
Page 2 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
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Page 3 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
Local Author Publishes Children’s Book Broaching The Subject Of Fear
Christian Music Artist Lauren Daigle Makes Stop In Tampa
Brave the publicly admits a vulPlane Who Was nerability he’s hidden Afraid to Fly is the for years. Fiona first illustrated chilallows Brave and dren’s book in a every member of his series of advenfamily to teach lestures with the prisons that every memmary airplane charber of your family can acter Brave. Firstemploy to face fear, time children’s overcome your past author Fiona Reid and experience the partners with illusfreedom that comes trator Aliosa Tran from not hiding under Phan to take young the weight of your readers and their fears. parents on a flying “I would like to adventure. Brave see Brave help chilLocal author Fiona Reid recently and his family of published Brave the Plane Who Was dren experience freeairplane parents Afraid to Fly, which is the first book in dom from problems a series of adventures. and siblings fly that can haunt them their way through the causes and chal- for years,” explained Reid. “Imagine lenges of the crippling emotion of fear. how different their lives will be as Brave faces his fear and, in an emoadults if they don’t carry those burtional but realistic moment, overcomes dens and pains throughout their his fear because he sees his father's youth. I want to see families follow the face and overcomes a fear of his own. example of Brave and his father.” Reid’s background in Freedom Fiona Reid grew up in the UK and Ministry, held at the Crossing Church, placed the story of Brave in the hill gives her a unique perspective on how country of Scotland, land of hills, valto deal with negative emotions. She leys and castles. Brave the Plane incorporates those principles into the Who Was Afraid to Fly, is available at story of Brave and demonstrates effec- most online retailers and by order tively how even children can be from Barnes and Noble or Books-Areleased from the negative impact of Million. Fiona is Director of Freedom fear. and Prayer ministries at Crossing With the help of his father, a veter- Church in Tampa. You can follow an flying ace, Brave chooses first to Brave’s story and interact with author admit and then overcome his fear. Fiona Reid through her Facebook Brave’s father leads the way when he page at fionainspired.
Join the twoand an American time GRAMMY® Music Award winAward winner ner. Lauren Daigle at The tour USF’s Yuengling takes its name Center on Friday, from her second June 28 when her album, Look Up ‘Look Up Child Child, which was World Tour’ comes released in 2018. to Tampa. The The two-time show starts at GRAMMY® 7:30 p.m. with the Award-winning doors opening at album won for 6:30 p.m. ‘Best The ‘Look Up Contemporary Child World Tour’ Christian Music kicked off on April Known for her powerful vocals and ability to Album’ and ‘Best 25 with 53 soldconnect with her fans, the Louisiana native Contemporary will be performing titles from her second out shows. In Christian Music album, Look Up Child. response, Daigle Song’ for You extended her tour by adding 19 new Say. Although Daigle may be the stops across the United States and fastest-selling new artist in Christian Europe. For the first time, Daigle will music, her song, You Say, has crossed tour in Europe with venues in Berlin, over and also appeared in the Top 40 Amsterdam, Paris and London. Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. “How couldn’t I keep this tour The show offers VIP Packages for going?” said Daigle. “Something that’s purchase featuring exclusive access to been this much fun, with y’all showing a preshow sound check performance up every night—why stop? Playing by Daigle, autographed memorabilia, this music live, seeing how everyone’s custom merchandise and much more. connecting to the songs, singing Ticket prices range from $29-$87.50 along, it’s such an amazing vibe, like (additional fees apply) per person and having a party with a few thousand of are available for purchase at www.tickmy closest friends every night.” etmaster.com or via phone at 1-800The contemporary Christian music 745-3000. Tickets to the event are not artist debuted in 2015 with her album, expected to last. How Can It Be, which garnered two The USF Yuengling Center is GRAMMY® nominations and multiple located at 4202 East Fowler Ave. in GMA Dove Awards. Daigle is also a Tampa. For more information, visit two-time Billboard Music Award winner www.laurendaigle.com.
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Page 4 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
Catholic Sports Radio Launches Podcast Catholic Sports Radio is a new weekly podcast launched with the mission of highlighting the intersection of one’s faith life and sports life. Created and hosted by Bruce Wawrzyniak, the show can be heard at www.CatholicSportsRadio.net as well as on iTunes (Apple Podcasts), Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher and TuneIn. To date, six episodes have already been released. “I’m extremely excited about this launch,” Wawrzyniak said. “I have been in podcasting for more than five years. In that community, we are very hesitant to use this phrase, but, no one is doing this. Catholic Sports Radio is a great opportunity for families to unite around a show that features guests telling how they are successfully navigating their faith walk–living the gospel–while pursuing their sports endeavors. I am confident the audience will grow quickly and globally for this initiative.” Wawrzyniak brings the experience of a podcast from his company, Now Hear This Entertainment that he has been doing every week since February 2014, with that show having listeners from 142 countries. He uses Catholic Sports Radio Episode 1 to discuss the purpose of the show as well as his qualifications (Catholic, sports and broadcasting/podcasting). The podcast acknowledges the many benefits of sports–sportsmanship, physical fitness, teamwork–and supports
Staff Report
goals of making it to the pros or earning a good contract. However, the mandate is that one’s faith has to come first, before sports or anything else. Giving firsthand testimony are guests who are Catholics in sports–current or former athletes, coaches, officials, administrators and more, from the pro, amateur and scholastic ranks. Wawrzyniak added, “Whether you’re an athlete or a fan, youth or adult, Catholic or not, this show will deliver content that speaks to you and provides opportunities for ongoing reflection for your daily life.” Guests so far have included a U.S. Olympic skier (2006 Winter Games in Torino), a former NFLer who is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, an individual who was part of an ESPN ‘30 for 30,’ and the Division I wins leader in NCAA softball history who coached Team USA to the Olympic gold medal in Athens in 2004 10 days after his wife died unexpectedly. Plus, Episode 2 features a former hockey player who Wawrzyniak calls “the poster boy for Catholic Sports Radio.” Under the username @CathSportsRadio, Catholic Sports Radio is also on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Plus, a ‘CSR Listeners’ Facebook group has launched for prayer requests as well.
The Power Of Prayer Helps Local 9-Year-Old Brianna Post Liver Transplant
By Amanda Boston
Nine-year-old remember for,” said Brianna, the Adriana. beloved daughter After receiving of Bradley and the call, the Adriana McAnally McAnally family of Gibsonton, was immediately left for diagnosed at six Miami and headed months old with a to Holtz Children’s rare liver condition Hospital where called Progressive Brianna would Familial receive a liver from Intrahepatic a deceased 13Cholestasis year-old boy. On Pictured is Brianna with her younger sister (PFIC). PFIC is a Brielle, brother Brayden and parents Bradley their long drive disease so uncomsouth, the family and Adriana. mon that a liver biopsy had to prayed for the donor’s family be flown to Pennsylvania and who had just faced a tremenLondon to diagnose definitivedous loss, they prayed for the ly. team transporting the liver, and Born without the liver they prayed for Briana’s transenzyme necessary to process plant team. bile, Brianna has endured “By then, the prayer chains countless doctor visits and had already been set in motion, needle sticks, medications, and countless messages from blood work, blood transfusions, people praying for our little girl heart surgery and a liver biopsy. Along started coming through from South with all the medical attention she America, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Africa, required, Brianna has lived with sympand all over the United States,” explained toms of severe itchiness, fatigue and visi- Adriana. ble jaundice. Brianna’s six-hour surgery was a “Brianna is the bravest, most couracomplete success as her body accepted geous girl, and throughout her battle with all of the donor’s liver. PFIC, her unrelenting faith has never falAdriana added, “We would like to tered,” said Adriana. “She loves God with extend our gratitude to all of St. Stephen all her heart and trusts Him with her life Catholic School, St. Stephen Parish and as no one I have ever known.” the Resurrection Catholic Church comLast September, as Brianna’s liver munity for their continued support and functions started to decline, she was abundance of prayers, which have placed on the national transplant list. allowed Brianna to recover so amazingly, “January 27th, 2019 is a day we will so quickly, and so well.”
Page 5 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
Grace Notes
W W W
.
O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R
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C O M
FOLLOW US:
Tool for Peace: Kindness
918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Brandon, FL 33511 657-2418 (fax) 657-4469
By Debora Coty
They all get along; why can’t we? As confrontations roar these days between people of opposing political opinions, torqued neighbors who make it feel like you’re living on the threshold of Hades itself and snarky online comments inflicting flaming arrows of hidden origin (and sometimes not so hidden), I’ll admit it hurts my heart. Yours too, no doubt. And I know it hurts Papa God’s heart when people refuse to extend kindness to one another. But unkindness isn’t something new. It’s been around a l-o-n-g time. Take for example the biblical account of an ugly, backbiting sibling episode in the twelfth chapter of Numbers. (Grab your Bible and read this for yourself.) Turns out that Miriam and Aaron – yes, THE Miriam, whom we’ve always admired for cleverly saving her baby brother Moses (Exodus 2:7) and leading the worship celebration after the Red Sea drowned the aspirations of Pharaoh’s army (Exodus 15:20), and THE Aaron whom we’ve adored as Moses’ older brother, mouthpiece (Exodus 4:30) and faithful right hand man (literally in Exodus 17:11-12) – later became jealous of their divinely-hand-picked-leader, Moses. So they got together one day to ‘dis’ Mo because of the nationality of his wife and to grouse loudly and liberally about not receiving the due they felt they deserved. Yikes. These two, who were until this point completely worthy of our respect and admiration, started spreading racist rumors to tear down their own brother and build themselves up. This, my friend, is not kind.
When Yahweh called them out for it, He was so spitting mad at their pettiness (“the anger of the LORD burned against them” 12:9 NIV), He not only cursed Miriam with a nasty case of temporary leprosy, He left them. He. Left. Them. Do you feel the full impact of this? Horrors. Can you think of anything worse? To be so revolting to the One who created you that He cannot even stand the sight of you? I fear that Papa God’s point in including this sobering and unflattering story in the Bible was to show that regardless of how normally good, pleasant, helpful, smiley and obedient we may be, we all have it in us, my friend, to spout mean, spiteful words and treat even those we love (much less those we don’t) unkindly. And then we face the terrifying possibility of our God not being able to stomach our very presence. I think even leprosy would be preferable to that. So let’s be mindful of how we respond to others when we feel disrespected, whether real or imagined. Do we grab our swords and start swinging? Or do we hammer them into plowshares (Isaiah 2:4)? (A plowshare, by the way is a crop harvesting tool; the gist of this verse is that there are times when we need to turn our instruments of warfare into tools for peace.) And I, for one, would rather farm than harm. Wouldn’t you?
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Page 6 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
Local Vacation Bible Schools (VBS) And Christian Day Camps By Amanda Boston
Who: Bay Life Church What: KIDAPALOOZA 2019 When: June 10-14 from 6-8:30 p.m. Where: 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon POC: Tina Hill, chill@baylife.org, Description: KIDAPALOOZA is Bay Life's slime-filled, super funny, high-energy VBS. Kidapalooza is for kids who are entering kindergarten through those entering 6th grade. Five nights of free fun. Doors open at 6 p.m. Register at www.baylife.org/kpa.
Who: Bell Shoals Baptist Church What: In the Wild VBS When: July 15-19, 8:45 a.m.-12 Noon. Where: Brandon Campus at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon
Description: In the Wild takes you on a wild adventure—with elephants and egrets, polar bears and penguins, cockatoos and crocodiles. As you seek out exotic animals, you’ll also find snapshots of real-life encounters with Jesus in Scripture. Registration is free for all children age 4 years (9/1/19) through completed 6th grade. Register at www.bellshoals.com/brandon-campus-vbs/.
Who: Bell Shoals Baptist Church What: Kid’s Worship Camp When: June 10-14, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Brandon Campus at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon
Description: Camp will take place at the Brandon Campus during the day with a special production on Friday night at 7 p.m. Students will learn set design, lighting, sound, media, drama, and of course, sing in the choir! For students who have completed 1st-5th grade. Cost is only $50 per child for the entire
week. The registration price includes lunch each day, a worship camp tshirt and an incredible experience. Space is limited so register now at www.bellshoals.com/kwc/.
Who: The Chapel At FishHawk What: Roar! When: June 24-28 from 6-8:30 p.m. Where: 6026 Churchside Dr. in Lithia
Description: This epic African adventure engages the whole herd. At Roar, kids explore God’s goodness and celebrate a ferocious faith that powers them through this wild life. Participation is for completed Pre-K to completed 5th grade. Cost is $25 per child For more information or to register, visit thechapelfh.org or 644-2787.
Who: Central Baptist Church What: In the Wild/Amazing Encounters with Jesus When: June 24-28 from 6-8:30 p.m. Where: 402 E. Windhorst Rd. in Brandon POC: 689-6133 Darcie at darcie@cbcbrandon.org or Caryn at caryn@cbcbrandon.org
Description: As you seek out exotic animals, you’ll also find snapshots of real-life encounters with Jesus in Scripture. Participation is for age 3 years-5th grade. For more information or to register, visit cbcbrandon.org.
Who: First Baptist Church of Brandon What: In the Wild/Amazing Encounters with Jesus When: June 17-21 from 9 a.m.12:15 p.m. Where: 216 N. Parsons Ave. in
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Description: In the Wild takes you on a wild adventure—with elephants and egrets, polar bears and penguins, cockatoos and crocodiles. Participation is for age 4 years (by 9/1/19) to completed 5th grade. Register at fbcbrandon.org or call 689-1204
Who: First Presbyterian of Brandon What: Cedarkirk Traveling Day Camp When: June 1721 from 9 a.m.4 p.m. Where: 121 Carver Ave. in Brandon
Description: In partnership with Cedarkirk Camp, First Presbyterian presents a VBS that brings classic camp activities and faith-building experiences to the church. The camp is for children that have completed kindergarten through completed 5th grade. The cost is $90.00 per child (non-members) and $60 per child (members). For more information or to register, visit www.fpcbrandon.org or call 689-4597.
Who: FishHawk Fellowship Church What: Power Up When: June 17-20 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon Where: 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia
Description: VBS is completed K5th grade. Registration cost is $10 per child (maximum $30). More information and to register can be found at www.fishhawkfc.org/vacationbible-school-2019/.
Who: Grace Community United Methodist Church What: Beyond The Gold Sports Camp When: June 24-28 from 5:45-8:15 p.m. Where: 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia POC: Erick Ashley, 661-8858
Description: For children age 4 years (toilet-trained) through 5th grade (2018-19 school year). Join us for Sports Camp as we strive to go ‘Beyond The Gold.' During the week, campers will have a great time participating in fun sports like ultimate frisbee, soccer, basketball, cheerleading and age-appropriate games for younger participants. Additionally, they will sing songs and learn important character traits like teamwork, perseverance, respect, sacrifice and strategy through stories in the Bible. Cost is $35 per camper. Please register at www.mygraceumc.com by clicking on ‘The Hub.’
Who: Holy Innocents' Episcopal Church What: The Incredible Race - One Family, One Race, One Savior When: June 17-21 from 9 a.m.- 12 Noon Where: 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico POC: Lynn Engerski, 689-3130
Description: On your mark! Get set! Go! At The Incredible Race, we will explore God’s love for the nations as we travel around the world. We’ll uncover fun clues, attempt fascinating challenges, and discover how the events that happened before, during, and after the tower of Babel have impacted the human race today. Grab your gear and prepare to set off on the race of a lifetime. Participation is for age 4 years-5th grade. No cost and please register at hiepiscopal.org.
Who: Immanuel Lutheran Church
CONFERENCE ROOM AVAILABLE FOR HOURLY MEETINGS • Table Seats up to 14 People • Additional SideChairs Available • Wi"i & AV Available
Page 7 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
Local Vacation Bible Schools (VBS) And Christian Day Camps By Amanda Boston
What: Scruffy & Scrappy's High Sea Adventure VBS When: June 17-21 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon Where: 2913 John Moore Rd. in Brandon POC: For more information, call the church office at 689-1787 or visit www.GodSoLoved.org.
Description: A free VBS for children age 3 years (toilet-trained) through 5th grade where will share Bible stories, sing songs, have snacks, play games and make crafts. Please join us as we share the love, joy and peace of Jesus.
Who: Journey Church of Brandon What: JourneyJam '19 When: July 15-19 from 5:45-9 p.m. Where: 1310 John Moore Rd. in Brandon POC: www.Journey7.com Description: Theme to be revealed at a later date. A free VBS for grades K-5th.
Who: Limona Village Chapel UMC What: Roar! VBS When: June 17-21 from 5-8:30 p.m. Where: 408 Limona Rd. in Brandon POC: For more information, contact the church office at 689-8385 Description: This epic African adventure engages the whole herd. At Roar, kids explore God’s goodness and celebrate a ferocious faith that powers them through this wild life. Register at TinyUrl.com/LVC2019Roar. The free VBS is for age 3 years (toilettrained) though graduating 5th graders. Arrive at 5 p.m. for a homemade, kid-friendly dinner in the Fellowship Hall. Families of participating children may stay for a hot cooked dinner too. If you are not joining us for dinner, please arrive by
office@redeemerriverview.org
5:30 p.m. for check-in.
Who: New Hope United Methodist Church What: Power Up VBS Where: 121 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon When: July 15-19 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon POC: Shelly Wilson at shelly@findnewhope.com or 689-4161. Description: Join us for Power Up VBS that features a week full of crafts, games, Bible stories and fun. Visit www.findnewhope.com to register. VBS is free and for children who have completed 3-year-old preschool through 6th grade.
Who: New Hope United Methodist Church What: Blast Camp for Middle Schoolers Where: 121 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon When: July 23-25 from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. POC: Chris Temple at Chris@findnewhope.com or 689-4161.
Description: Blast Camp is for students in grades 6-8 for the 201920 school year. The 3-day experience helps students get ready to kick off the new school year. Cost is $75 per student. Register online at www.findnewhope.com.
Who: Redeemer Church What: VBS ‘A Mighty Fortress’ When: June 17-21 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon Where: 12404 Boyette Rd. in Riverview POC: For more information, call 741-1776 or email
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Who: Shiloh Baptist Church What: The Incredible Race When: June 23-27 from 6-9 p.m. Where: 905 West Terrace Dr. in Plant City
Description: At The Incredible Race, we will explore God’s love for the nations as we travel around the world. For age 3 years (by 6/23/19) through completed 5th grade. Register at www.shilohpc.org or through ShilohKIDS Facebook page.
in Riverview
Who: South Bay Church What: Summer Kids Club presents ‘Power Up’ a free VBS When: June 3-7 from 6-8:30 p.m. Where: 13498 US Hwy. 301 S.
Description: Kids will enjoy a week of lively songs, dancing, fun games, crafts, skits, age-based Bible lessons and more. A snack will be provided each evening and security will be onsite. Participation is for ages 5-11. For more information or to register, visit www.southbay.cc/events.
Who: South Shore United Methodist Church What: ROAR! VBS When: July 22-26 from 5:30-8 p.m. Where: 11525 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview POC: For questions, call 677-9482 and register at www.southshoreumc.com/vbs.
grades K-5th. Doors open at 5 p.m., with a kid-friendly dinner starting at 5:30 pm. Sing and Play Roar begins at 6 p.m. At Roar, kids discover that God is good even when life gets wild! Kids participate in memorable Bible-learning activities, sing catchy songs, play teamworkbuilding games, make and devour yummy treats and experience oneof-a-kind Wild Bible Adventures.
Who: St. Andrew's United Methodist Church What: Light Up the Way When: July 8-12 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon Where: 3315 Bryan Rd. in Brandon POC: Erika Spalin at erika.spalin@saumc.net
Description: Join us on a camping adventure as we learn how we can shine Jesus' light in the world. Participation is for VPK-5th grade. Registration begins May 1 at SAUMC.NET/VBS2019.
Who: United Methodist Church of Sun City Center What: VBS Roar! “Life is Wild; God is Good!” When: June 17-21 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon Where: 1210 Del Webb Blvd. in Sun City Center POC: More information, visit www.sccumc.com. To register, call 634-2539. For specific questions, email pathill@sccumc.com or rhonda@sccumc.com.
Description: This epic African adventure engages the whole herd. At Roar, kids explore God’s goodness and celebrate a ferocious faith that powers them through this wild life. On Sunday, June 23, there will be a VBS celebration during church services. Participation is for age 4 years to (rising) 5th grade.
Description: Participation is for
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Page 8 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
Your Monthly Catch Local Happenings In Our Community
Impact To Host Community Leaders Breakfast
Teen Impact will host a free breakfast for pastors, church leaders and Christian business leaders on Wednesday, May 15 from 7:30-9 a.m. at The Regent. The event is an opportunity to hear more about the positive impact that the organization Impact is making in the community. The local nonprofit educates and empowers teens to make healthy choices by avoiding high-risk behavior. A few local pastors that will share their experiences with being involved with the program. Networking will begin at 7:30 a.m. with programming at 8 a.m. The purpose is to promote awareness among youth leaders, mission directors and local leaders so that they can promote Impact within their church and organization as well as make a financial plea to keep the program running. Please register for the breakfast by Monday, May 13 at https://impactbreakfast.eventbrite.co m/. The Regent is located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. For more information on Impact, visit www.whatisimpact.com or its Facebook page @whatisimpact. For further questions, contact Angie Kagey at akagey@whatisimpact.com or 2649368.
Local Author Releases New Book On Building Character FishHawk resident Steven R. Johnson recently penned and pub-
lished a new book titled, BUILDING CHARACTER: The Values Journal. The manuscript is described as a transformative, scripture-based personal development guide that enables parents and children to center their life on four core principles. Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Johnson’s book is an invaluable resource for Christian families looking to establish a solid foundation not just for the individual but the entire household and their society. Johnson writes, “In today’s rapidly evolving world, the erosion of individual character is increasingly evident. Values-based societies require vigilant character development to sustain ethical behavior across public and private life. Building Character: The Values Journal is intended to provide a tool to assist on the journey toward character development.” Johnson, a married father of two, has worked with the U.S. Department of Defense as a soldier in the army and as a civilian at the strategic command level. You can view a synopsis of BUILDING CHARACTER: The Values Journal on YouTube.
Bay Life’s BEMA Event Photo courtesy of Wendy Stough
(dry clean only)
Pre-Paid - No Limit Seville Cleaners Expires 5/31/2019
Riverview Spring Festival And Carnival Firm Foundation Christian Fellowship
(FFCF) invites the community to
Join LifeCare Network's Annual Walk For Life event on Saturday, May 4 from 911 a.m. for family fun activities, music, walk for life and kids fun run. The walk takes place at Brandon High School located at 1101 Victoria St. in Brandon. The fundraising event is an easy, fun way to get involved and make a difference for LIFE. You can help LifeCare advance its mission to protect and preserve the sanctity of human life by signing up to participate. Everyone is welcome. Join us as a pledge-raising
What would you do differently in your life if you had a second chance? Sometimes we need a reminder that we still have the opportunity to make a change and live a life worthy of God's calling. If you thought, "I wish I would,” then do. Pray more. Invest in and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven..." Matthew 5:12 people. Use your gifts to serve. Find value eternally. Let all of the days we have point others to THE day, The BEMA. Bay Life Church presented The BEMA, directed by Stephen Stough, based on the book by Tim Stevenson. If you missed The
Same Day Service • In By 9am - Out by 4pm
$2.75
LifeCare Networks Walk For Life 2019
walker or register for the kids fun run. Participants are encouraged to get sponsors to help them reach their fundraising goal. There will be refreshments, games, face painting, balloons and music from a live band. The Walk For Life inspires a culture of life in our community. Get involved this year by visiting its website to register at http://lifecarenetwork.net/runwalk.php or call for more information at 654-0491.
the Riverview Spring Festival and Carnival. The event takes place from Thursday, May 2 to Sunday, May 5. There will be rides, food and family fun. Entrance to the festival and parking are free. Tickets for rides can be purchased at the location. Hours for the event vary on Thursday and Friday the festival will be open from 5-9:30 p.m.; on Saturday from 12 Noon9:30 p.m.; and Sunday from 1:30-8 p.m. More information can be found at https://firmfoundationcf.org/event/riverviewspring-carnival/. The festival will be held at FFCF, which is located at 12001 Big Bend Rd. in Pictured is Worship Pastor, Darnisha Taylor as a character. "Rejoice Riverview.
Seville299 C LEANERS Any Garment
BEMA, go to www.baylife.org/bema or check out the live stream videos on Facebook. Do not wait too long, the videos will only be up for a short time. Bay Life Church is located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon For more information, call 661-3696.
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Page 9 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
Local Christian News: Jeremy Rosado Performs, New Members
By Amanda Boston
Centerpoint Church Opens New Campus In Brandon/Valrico Area.
Centerpoint Church is expanding its reach in the greater Brandon area by launching a second campus in Valrico. The goal of the church has always been to meet the tangible needs of the community and to ‘tear down every barrier to the Gospel of Jesus.’ This campus will be called ‘Centerpoint Church North,’ and is located at 1720 S. St. Cloud Rd. in Valrico. It will hold more than 400 people, roughly double the size of the current Centerpoint Church campus on Miller Rd. Centerpoint plans to leave both campuses open, calling the current campus ‘Centerpoint Church South.’ The new campus used to be the home of Horizon Christian Church, which joined under the banner of Centerpoint Church in mid2018. The Centerpoint Church North is also home to Hispanic Church of Brandon, which will now meet on Sunday afternoons. The Centerpoint Church - North officially launched on Easter weekend. Service times will be at 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. on Sundays at both campuses. For more information, visit www.centerpointfl.org.
bors to enjoy the day at Holy Innocents', located at 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico. The event is free except for food and beverage purchases. Food trucks will be on the premises. For more information, visit hiepiscopal.org or contact the church office at 689-3130.
Luau Fashion Show Ends Christian Women’s Season
Destiny Church Welcomes New Members
Destiny Church has been preaching God’s Word and serving in the community of Ruskin for over 40 years. Continuing the Lord’s ministry, Destiny Church welcomed 19 new members on March 3. Destiny Church is located at 2322 11th Ave SE in Ruskin. Call 645-3337 or visit http://www.aplace4everyone.org/.
family, friends and neighbors together for a day of fun. This event, scheduled for Saturday, May 4 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. will be held on the church grounds with Piggy Palace Food Truck, laser tag, bounce house and slide. There will also be video and dance game and a DJ. In addition to American Idol contestant Jeremy Rosado, dancers from Judy's Dance Academy will perform. Bring family, friends and neigh-
$30
Jeremy Rosado To Perform At Holy Innocents’ Youth Event
The community is invited to the Spring Event of ‘HILL’ (Holy Innocents’ Linking Lives). This inaugural event is being put on by the Holy Innocents Youth Group to bring
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Brandon Christian Women's Connection’s last luncheon of the season will be a Luau Fashion Show ‘Summer Fun Fashions’ by Bon Worth Fashions on Monday, May 13 at Bell Shoals Baptist Church in its Special Event Center, 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon. The luncheon takes place from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The cost is $15. First-time guests pay $10. Come and bring a friend for a fun lunch, entertainment and speaker. This is a nondenominational event, and all ladies are welcome. No membership is required. Call Lillie at 740-0098 for reservation and information.
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Page 10 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
Riverview Couple Turns Tragedy Into A Testimony
By Amanda Boston
Christian 5:16 encourages volMichael Hernandez unteers to shine was born to Michael before others by and Lindsay doing good deeds Hernandez of that glorify God. Its Riverview on vision is to make a February 25, 2016. difference by impactWithin minutes of his ing the lives and cirbirth, doctors discovcumstances of othered Christian’s traers, one good deed chea was not at a time. attached to his lungs This year two rendering it impossiwomen have gone ble for him to above and beyond breathe. The couple serving others by After the loss of their infant son in lost their newborn being ‘the light’ in 2016, Michael and Lindsay Hernandez shortly after. their communities. established a foundation in his name In their grief, They have donated that aims to make a difference, one good deed at a time. Lindsay and Michael food and medical vowed to honor their son’s death by supplies, adopted families at Christmas, being a light in the community by helping donated to children in hospitals and proothers amid their struggles. One year vided stuffed animals to the Hillsborough later on Christian’s first heavenly birthday, County Sheriff Office (HCSO) for the couple established the Christian deputies to hand out to children in crisis Michael Hernandez Foundation. situations. “We wanted to take something that Lindsay concluded, “Our little boy's was so unbelievably tragic and communi- life was so very short but so very mighty, cate that surviving it can be for good and and he is changing the world without for God’s purpose,” explained Lindsay, ever having touched the ground.” co-founder of the Christian Michael The Christian Michael Hernandez Hernandez Foundation. Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit “Every year on Christian’s birthday, organization and is in search of volunwe do ‘Kindness for Christian,’” said teers willing to donate their time, trade or Lindsay. “It’s a day with purposeful acts talents. From monetary donations to of kindness where we set out to be a business owners giving goods or serviclight in our community. But we also have es, the foundation will find a way to bless people who volunteer all year with our others in need. foundation.” For more information or donate to The foundation's ‘Be the Light' projthe foundation, visit www.christianect is based on the Bible verse Matthew michaelhernandez.org.
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What’s So Funny About Laughter Yoga? By Michelle Colesanti
This year, World stress, the immune sysLaughter Day will be celtem is strengthened, ebrated on Sunday, May helping to keep you from 5 and it is a good getting sick and heal a reminder to take some lot quicker. It also helps time to de-stress by reduce blood pressure. laughing. There are plenThe positive energy ty of reasons why you helps you connect with should. others and in turn Dr. Tanya Gold, MD helps others. It is recently held a seminar at contagious and it The Bridges Assisted just makes you The Bridges Retirement Living in Riverview. She happy. Do you ever Community recently held has been practicing med- a seminar on Laughter notice that when Yoga. Participants learned about you are in a room full of icine for over 15 years, the benefits of laughter while and is board-certified in practicing the art with each other. strangers, you gravitate both family and to those who smile or holistic medicine. seem cheerful? Dr. Gold is certiEveryone can laugh when life is fied a Laughter good, but how do you cope when faced Yoga Instructor with challenges? It is not wrong to laugh as well as. Participants learned about even if you have to work at it. You can Therapeutic Laughter, defined as deliberfool the brain into thinking it is a real ate laughter for health benefits. laugh. In rough times, it can help give you Dr. Gold’s motivation for incorporating the hope and optimism needed to cope. laughter into her life started when she The best part about laughter is that it is was personally dealing with an eye illfree and can be practiced anywhere and ness. “Laughter was the road to recovery. anytime. My doctor told me to wait until the next According to Janet Noah, who is the flair to come to the office. I didn’t want to Director of Community Relations at The wait.” She noted that stress was one of Bridges, “We regularly offer educational the main factors for flair-ups. “Laughter workshops to our residents, families and was a conduit for reducing stress.” the greater community throughout the Laughter Yoga is beneficial to both year. Laughter yoga promotes health and your brain and physical body. Your mood wellness to people of all ages.” will immediately improve and soon you So remember, laugh, make someone will be laughing more. It is like a cardio else laugh and hug three people today. workout bringing oxygen to the body and If you would like more information brain, making you feel more energetic about Dr. Gold, visit http://dgoli.com/, call and relaxed. It actually helps to tighten 379-7092 or visit on Facebook at Dr. your core muscles, too. By reducing Gold's Optimal Living Institute.
Page 11 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
The Mighty Miracles Of Jesus
Healing Of Simon Peter's Mother-in-law
By Kelly Wise Valdes
During His ministry, Jesus performed more than 40 miracles including healing the sick, changing the natural elements of nature and even raising people from the dead. A miracle is considered an event that occurs outside the bounds of natural law. Each month, we will take a closer look at one of His miracles to understand the depth of His love for us. Understanding the miracles of Jesus can change your life, and it all begins with believing through faith. The fifth documented miracle of Jesus was the healing of Simon Peter’s mother-in-law and was recorded in several of the Gospels including Luke 4:38-41. This is a simple story about an ordinary woman who was never explicitly named because the focus of the story is on Jesus' miracle, yet her story demonstrates the power and love of Jesus. As described in the Gospel of Luke, “Jesus left the synagogue and went to the home of Simon Peter. Now Simon Peter's mother-in-law was suffering from a high fever, and they asked Jesus to help her. So He bent over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her. She got up at once and began to wait on them.” The event took place on the Sabbath day, which is a holy day where people are not allowed to work to include performing miracles. After leaving the synagogue, many of the
men that were worshipping came with Jesus to Simon Peter’s house and were planning to eat together. In those days, the woman of the house typically prepared the meal for the men, but the woman of this house, Simon Peter’s mother-in-law, was extremely ill. When she tried to greet Jesus, she was too weak and collapsed. Although it is not known exactly what her illness was, the Scripture says that she had a very high fever, making the woman weak. What did Jesus do? He took the woman’s hand and lifted her up. Immediately, the fever was gone, and there was no sign of the weakness that might be expected in a person who had been running a temperature. After Jesus rebuked the women’s fever, it left her, and she began to wait on the guests. What also is notable about this miracle was Jesus ‘rebuked’ the fever. We see the word rebuke on several other occasions including the miracle to end the storm on the Sea of Galilee when He rebuked the wind and rain, as well when Jesus ‘rebuked’ the demon during the exorcism in the synagogue. The word means, "to censure or admonish." There are times when the solutions to our problems may require rebuke or strong admonition. No one enjoys being on the receiving end of a rebuke, yet if healing is to occur, sometimes it takes a strong word or a strong will. Anyone can play a vital part in God’s plan. The Lord’s miracles in our lives are often quiet and ordinary. It’s the small miracles that are performed behind closed doors that allow ordinary people to lead lives pleasing to the Lord, to serve Him and show others His love.
What you will find at Journey: • • • • •
SUNDAY SERVICE AT 9AM
Contemporary, band-driven worship Messages that are Bible-based and practical A great nursery and play area for babies and toddlers A learning environment for young children. A fun environment for teens
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Caring for a loved one with Dementia or Alzheimer’s? LIFE isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass... It’s about learning to dance in the rain. Assisted Living for Memory Care Day Stay & Respite Programs Support Groups for Caregivers Call today to visit our community. We can work together to give your loved one the best possible care.
A tip from our experts: Be sure to have eye contact when speaking to someone with dementia. Speak slowly and in short sentences then give them time to respond. Remember the word silent also spells listen both of which you must practice to be successful in communicating with someone with dementia. Assisted Living Facility #9739
Page 12 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
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Page 14 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
Bloomingdale Resident Receives Lightning Community Hero Award
By Kate Quesada
Pam Stamey of Home Makers of Hope was named a Tampa Bay Lightning Community Hero last month.
Bloomingdale resident Pam Stamey and her charity Home Makers of Hope received some well-deserved recognition last month. Stamey was named The Tampa Bay Lightning’s Community Hero at a game in early March, granting the charity $50,000, but she is now asking for help making an even bigger impact with the money. Home Makers of Help is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing essential furnishings and household items to families struggling with poverty. “We help people who are truly poor and can change their lives in an hour with our donations,” said Stamey. The group receives donations of furniture and other household items and passes them on to people, referred to them by 30 local schools and agencies, who cannot afford to purchase the items themselves. “When we go in, we find families without beds, kitchenware, couches or tables,” said Stamey. “They are sleeping and eating on the floor. We are able to help by providing these items as well
as linens, kitchen equipment and decorative pieces. By the time we leave, the house is feeling like a home.” Thanks to generous donations from businesses and residents, Stamey states that the charity’s biggest need is not currently furniture, although they will always accept donations. “We have a warehouse of items and a great network on donors,” she said. “What we really need are volunteers to help us deliver the items to the families.” The charity helped 255 families last year and currently has a waiting list of six months with more than 45 families on it. “We need more truck drivers, warehouse workers, interior designers and people with a passion for changing lives,” said Stamey. Home Makers of Hope currently has three teams serving different areas of Hillsborough County and Stamey is hoping to soon add a fourth dedicated to helping pregnant women. But she cannot do this without more volunteers. “At this time, we set up six to eight families a week, but with help we can do so many more,” she said. For info, visit www.homemakersofhope.com. On the website, residents can request a pickup for items, make a monetary donation and learn more about volunteering. Donations can also be dropped off on Tuesdays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the group’s warehouse located at 2900 B E. 7th Ave. in Ybor City.
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Plant City Entertainment Presents First Baptist Ivy Of Gap
By Kathy Colins
show was selected because, "It has it all- laughing, crying, secrets and six strong southern women who are not afraid to confront the truth and tell it like it is." Permenter added, "The show is compared to Steel Magnolias. However, these women are so much more than just a bunch of one-liners. The six talented women on stage really bring these characters to life." The cast of First Baptists Ivy of Gap may be small, but it is a mighty one ready to deliver a powerful performance for the Plant City Entertainment will present First Baptist community. Ivy of Gap this April and May. Permenter said, "We have a Plant City Entertainment under the cast composed of both experienced direction of Coy Permenter, will presactors and new ones. Two of the ent First Baptist Ivy of Gap on Friday, ladies are finding the experience to be April 26 and May 3; Saturday, April 27 therapeutic as they both lost a son and May 4 at 8 p.m. There will be within the last few years. matinees offered on Sunday April 28 They really have been able to and May 5 at 2 p.m. The shows will draw upon their tragedy and put so be held at Plant City Entertainment's much life into the characters they Theatre located at 101 N. Thomas St. play." in historic downtown Plant City. Plant City Entertainment is a Tickets are $18 for adults, $14 for 501(c)(3) that has been providing the seniors 60 and over and students 18 community with great, high quality and under with ID and groups of 10 or entertainment for over 40 years. more (available with advanced pur"We put on high caliber shows chase only) for $12. that rival professional productions and First Baptist Ivy of Gap was writdo it on a shoestring budget. I never ten by accomplished author and jourget tired of hearing someone say, nalist, Ron Osborne. It follows the 'That was better than the version I story of six women who gather at their saw at a professional theatre,'" said church to roll bandages for soldiers Permenter. fighting in WWII and their subsequent For more info and to buy tickets, reunion 25 years later. please visit www.pceshow.com. Permenter explained that this
What you will find at Journey: • • • • •
Contemporary, band-driven worship Messages that are Bible-based and practical A great nursery and play area for babies and toddlers A learning environment for young children. A fun environment for teens
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Page 15 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
Brandon Community Gathers For Grand Opening Of The Carey Family Boys & Girls Club
By Tatiana Ortiz
Various county leaders and the community joined together with the Boys & Girls Club of Tampa Bay for the grand opening of the newly remodeled Carey Family Brandon Boys & Girls Club in Brandon on March 29. The club also relocated to Sadie Park as part of an expansion to the Bill Carey Brandon Boys & Girls Club, which previously could be found on Knights Avenue. Carey’s daughter Amy Carey Lee had a chance to reflect back on her childhood with the opening of this club. “I remember as a little girl attending classes here at the old Brandon Civics Center, which was really the center of Brandon at the time,” Lee said. This would be one of the eight clubs working under a community collaboration model. For instance, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay,
County leaders and the community attended a grand opening of the new Carey Family Boys & Girls Club in Brandon.
the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and the Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation Department united to bring the vision of a stronger community to reality. At one point, the original Knights Ave. location operated under the leadership of Sheriff David Gee, which
would be the first Club to bring law enforcement into the conversation around community impact. Currently, the Club maintains its leadership under Sheriff Chad Chronister. This location will serve youth ages 5-18 along with the opportunity to accommodate up to 125 children and teenagers. With
it being in between Mann Middle School and Yates Elementary School, students can walk to the Club. The youth who come here get access to a baseball field, a playground and much more. To add, an on-site deputy will be on the premises as well. "Having a deputy on-site not only creates a safer environment for children to learn and play everyday, but it also is a chance to show them that law enforcement officers are their friends,” Sheriff Chronister said. For more information, visit www.bgctampa.org. It is located at 510 E. Sadie St. in Brandon. Call 444-0375.
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Page 16 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
New Dad Thanks His Fire Rescue Team After Electrocution Accident
By Kate Quesada
By Kelly Wise Valdes
St. Mark's Coptic Cathedral – Alexandria, Egypt St. Mark's Coptic Cathedral in Alexandria, Egypt is the seat of the Pope of Alexandria, the head of the Coptic Orthodox Church. The cathedral is believed to have been built in 60 A.D. on the site of the church founded by St. Mark the Evangelist. St. Mark was the author of the second Gospel in the New Testament, and he has always been closely associated with the city of Alexandria. Historians believe he arrived in Alexandria around 60 A.D. and lived there for more than seven years. During this time, St. Mark converted many to Christianity and performed numerous miracles. St. Mark is considered the founder of the church in Alexandria and the first Bishop of Alexandria. According to historians, St. Mark was arrested during a festival of Serapis in 68 A.D. and was martyred by being dragged through the streets. He was buried under the church he had founded. In 828, the remains of St. Mark were stolen from the church by Venetians to be enshrined in the brand new St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, Italy. However, the head of the saint remained in Alexandria, and every newly appointed patriarch
of Alexandria began his service by holding the holy head of St. Mark in his lap and changing its cloth shroud. The head of St. Mark was moved around a great deal over the centuries and has been lost for over 250 years. Some of the relics from the body of St. Mark were returned from Rome in 1968. The church’s immense interior is filled with graceful, stylish arches. Chandeliers hang above the pews, lighting the beautiful rendition of The Last Supper above the altar. Additional artwork of Coptic engravings, stained glass windows and paintings of scenes from the life of Jesus Christ and the Apostles fill the interior. The church follows the Alexandrian Rite for its liturgy, prayer and devotional patrimony. With more than 18 million members worldwide, with most of those followers in Egypt, St. Mark's Coptic Cathedral is the country's largest Christian church. The church is located at 66 Ebadah Ibn Al Samet - Al Naby Danyan in Alexandria, Egypt. For more information, visit its Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/StMarkCopticOrt hodoxCathedral/.
A team of “The acciHillsborough dent happened County Fire on December Rescuers 6 and my son (HCFR) was born on received a speDecember 9,” cial thank you said Stevens. last month. “He is now Bloomingdale three months resident Wes old, the same Stevens preas me.” sented the fireStevens is fighters that a woodworking Bloomingdale resident and Tampa Firefighter Wes saved his life Stevens recently presented handmade wooden flags hobbyist who in December to the team of Hillsborough County Fire Rescuers sells his art who saved his life in December. with handthrough his made wooden flags to thank them for business, Black Axe Designs. coming to his aid when he lost conscious“I have been doing woodwork for ness in his home. several years,” said Stevens. “I started Stevens, who is also a firefighter at making cornhole boards and my love for Tampa’s Fire Rescue Station 22, was woodworking expanded to anything from woodworking in his garage in December small, hand-carved signs to farmhouse when he was electrocuted with a 2,000 tables, home decor, sliding barn doors or volt current that ran through his body and entertainment centers, to name just a few. stopped his heart. According to Everything I make is to order for cusHillsborough County Senior Media tomers of mine.” Relations Strategist Chris Wilkerson, the Many of Stevens’ pieces of art accident left Stevens clinically dead for 17 include the fractal burning of designs into minutes until the team arrived to jolt his wood. He came up with a special design unresponsive heart with a defibrillator. to thank the firefighters who saved his life. “The second jolt brought him back,” “The gifts I made for the County firesaid Wilkerson. fighters were small wooden ‘Thin Red HCFR transported Stevens to Tampa Line’ American flags,” said Stevens. “I General Hospital, where he spent 11 wanted to thank them personally and days in the Burn Intensive Care Unit, and since I do woodworking, I felt that would this month he returned to full active duty. be a nice gift.” Three days after the accident, To learn more about Black Axe Stevens’ wife Hannah gave birth to the Designs, search for the business on couple’s son, Morgan, in the same hospiFacebook or Instagram or call 625-7292. tal.
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Page 17 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
Hot Off The Christian News Wire Pontius Pilate's palace in Jerusalem, several times on the day He was sentenced to death. This is the first time in 300 years that the walnut wood covering over the steps has been removed. It first was placed on the steps at Pope Innocent XIII’s request in 1723 to preserve the marble. The staircase was uncovered on Thursday, April 11 and will remain that way through Sunday, June 9, allowing visitors to ascend the steps on their knees, as is the tradition. According to the sanctuary’s website, centuries of noticeable wear and tear on the steps and "thousands of letters, notes, photos, and coins were found" underneath the wood covering. There are also places where Jesus’ blood is believed to have stained the steps. A metal grate covers one of
Holy Stairs Believed To Have Been Climbed By Jesus Unveiled in Rome
The stairs believed to have been climbed by Jesus on the day of his crucifixion have been unveiled just in time for the annual pilgrimage where thousands of Christians make their to Rome and the Vatican. The Scala Santa, also known as the Holy Stairs, are at the Pontifical Sanctuary in Rome. Some Christians believe that Jesus climbed the 28 marble steps, which were originally part of
those areas after being “worn to a deep hole because the faithful touched that precise point with their fingers.” After the two-month window, the wood covering will be replaced, meaning
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VeggieTales Founder Launches Book Collection
LifeWay To Close All 170 Christian Stores
LifeWay Christian Resources, the largest Christian retail chain in America, plans to close all 170 stores this year and shift its offerings entirely online. "The decision to close our local stores is a difficult one," said the acting president and CEO Brad Waggoner, who is succeeding longtime LifeWay president Thom Rainer. The Southern Baptist affiliate announced in January initial plans to reduce its locations this year due to declining sales and financial pressures but ended up deciding it wasn't viable to keep any stores open past 2019. Rainer said they did all they could to save the stores, which span across 30 states. The chain will continue online sales through LifeWay.com.
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Page 18 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
Guardian ad Litem Urges You To Help Change The Story Ending
By Tabitha Lambert, Guardian ad Litem Circuit Director
The places, faces and some circumstances vary, but so many of the details are the same. This is the beginning of one foster child’s story. By volunteering a few hours a month, you can be part of the ending for another child’s story as a Guardian ad Litem Volunteer Child Advocate. Melissa, the oldest of four children, told her story this way: “For the first 12 years of my life, I was never allowed to be a child. My mother would trade the government assistance that was intended for our food, diapers, clothing and bills for alcohol and drugs. I resorted to stealing and stashing food stamps, which I would take to a nearby grocery store and ask the clerk to help me maximize the amount of food I could purchase. I was desperate to find help. I approached my dance team coach and confessed the abuse. She was able to convince my mother to let us stay with an aunt and uncle temporarily. Shortly after, we entered the dependency system.” “My siblings and I lived in limbo for five long years, as my aunt and uncle fought to gain permanent custody of us,”
she continued. “After at least two reunification plans failed, my mother’s rights were severed and my aunt and uncle adopted us.” Melissa remembers one thing that truly helped her through this difficult period: her Guardian ad Litem Volunteer Child Advocate. “[She] was the only one we could turn to for answers. She tried to comfort us and guide us through the process. She was a constant in our lives and our voice in the courtroom. She showed me that while my childhood may have been taken away, I was in control of what I would do with the rest of my life.” Hillsborough County has more children in the dependency system than any other part of the state. A Guardian ad Litem Volunteer Child Advocate will get to know a child that has been abused, abandoned or neglected and become a consistent figure for them while they are part of the dependency system. Children with a court-appointed special advocate do better in school, receive more services and are more likely to be adopted than those without. “Just a few hours a month can make a lifetime of difference for a child,” said Guardian ad Litem 13th Circuit Director Tabitha Lambert. “These children need to know a consistent, caring adult is there for them.” Information sessions are held weekly in various locations. To learn more about the Guardian ad Litem program of Hillsborough County, visit www.galtampa.org or 272-5110.
Live Like You Mean It The Sweet Fragrance Of Real Life By Derek Maul For we are the sweet fragrance of Christ to God, discernible both among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing; the sweet fragrance of the knowledge of Him. 2 Corinthians 2:15 Somewhere around my birthday, every year since we first came to North Carolina, Rebekah takes me to my favorite nursery and helps me pick out herbs for the garden she will plant for me in a series of inviting flower pots on the deck right off the kitchen. No more dried out herbs - shelved, bottled, contained, washed out. It’s a wonderful gift, placing live herbs right there a step or two away when I am cooking. Not just the beauty and the fragrance but the freshness and the added sense of imagination it gives my ongoing explorations in cooking. It’s like giving a new palette of paints to an artist, replacing dry, cracked color tablets with vibrant, rich acrylics. Fresh textures and hues. New inspirations. The latest tools and supplies to make the work “pop.” So we wandered around the magical collection of garden possibilities that is Logan’s Supply Company until we finally landed at the herb section, fragrant and inviting. I had a festive holiday filling my cart.
Basil. Oregano. Sage. Parsley. Thyme (both German and Lemon). Mint. Rosemary. And, a new one for me, the invitingly aromatic herb known as Summer Savory. There’s one more analogy that has settled into my spirit. The difference to my kitchen made by fresh, fragrant, living herbs reminds me of walking into our church on Sunday morning and reveling in the life there because neither the preacher nor the people are dried, shelved, bottled, contained, or washed out. If your experience of ‘church’ is dried up and washed out, then you need to ask Jesus to reanimate The Body with authentic, fragrant, vibrant life. Fresh. Aromatic. Inviting. Alive. “For we are the sweet fragrance of Christ to God, discernible both among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.” Peace and blessings - Derek Derek Maul has written for many news outlets, including the Tampa Tribune, The United Methodist News Service, All Pro Dad, FOCUS Magazine, Newsweek, USA Today, The 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
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Page 19 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
Local MPact Services Helps Collect & Recycle Unwanted Electronics
Chris Edwards Is Named Volunteer Of The Year From The Campo Family YMCA
MPact how large or Services, run by small the size. husband and wife You can contact team Matt and the logistics Donna McCarty, department and helps businesses, schedule a time communities, and date for the agencies and removal of the other entities with material. MPact responsible elecwill provide you tronics recycling, with a certificate including consultof recycling or a Photo courtesy of MPact Services certificate of ing and project MPact will go to communities on the weekends destruction upon management and have collection events so that residents can services, along request to ensure responsibly get rid of their electronics. with disposal of none of your senscrap and surplus metals and obsolete sitive data is released back into the pubheavy equipment. lic. The McCartys started the company The company works with homeownin 2014, and together, have used their ers associations around the area and on previous working experience to help select weekends will go to different comjump-start MPact. “We feel that our communities to hold collection events. Some pany makes an ‘MPact’ on the communiof the electronics are eventually repurty and the environment by providing our posed or used for scrap metal. The hard neighbors with an environmentally friendly drives are all erased and properly disand responsible way to properly dispose posed of. It can assist everyone from of their end-of-life electronics and scrap homeowners and small businesses all the items,” said McCarty. “The more material way up to large government agencies. we can recycle and/or repurpose, the The event calendar is located on its webmore we can lessen the stream of materi- site. als that are being sent to our landfills.” For more information, you can visit MPact accepts most residential electhe website at MPactServicesUSA.com. tronic items like small appliances such as You can follow MPact Services on cell phones, as well as commercial type Facebook at MPact Services, LLC as equipment, from laptops to printers. You well. can find a list of items it accepts listed on “It gives people peace of mind, the their website, MPactServicesUSA.com. feeling of knowing that their electronics Its services, which are completely aren’t just going to be thrown in a landfill free, also include complimentary pickup and are handled responsibly,” said from your home or business, no matter McCarty. “That’s really important to us.”
Each year, staff while he is in the buildthe Tampa ing. Even though he only Metropolitan Area volunteers on Mondays, he YMCA hosts a makes sure everyone he Community touches starts off the week Impact Dinner. At on the right foot. He is this dinner, volunalways smiling and you can teers from area tell he is genuinely happy to YMCAs are recbe here. He is the kind of ognized as well person that makes the as local residents Campo Y such a special who are dedicatplace in our community.” ed to the commuEdwards said of the nity and have a recognition, “I like to meet positive impact and greet all the people, Chris Edwards is the 2019 on Tampa Bay. members and staff. I like to Volunteer of the Year from the This year, Campo Family YMCA. Edwards has please people and make been volunteering with the Y for six them feel happy. Their smilU.S. years and is always eager to greet Representative ing faces feel like sunshine.” members and visitors alike. Kathy Castor Jarrod explained why it received the Tampa Metropolitan YMCA’s is important to recognize volunteers. 2019 Community Impact Award on “Whether it is the Board of Advisor volunMonday, March 4. Previous Impact teers, youth sports coaches or a friendly Award winners include Jeff and Penny smile greeting you at the door, our volunVinik, Richard Gonzmart and Tampa teers are the foundation on which the Y Mayor Bob Buckhorn. was built. They sacrifice time, talent and Area YMCA facilities each select a treasure because they believe in our misvolunteer to be recognized. The sion,” said Jarrod. Volunteer of the Year for 2019 from the The Campo Family YMCA is located Campo Family YMCA is Chris Edwards, at 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico. This who volunteers on the Wellness Floor branch of the Y offers a multitude of and on the Aquatics Deck. Edwards activities for both young and old. Jarrod greets members and cleans during slow said, “The Campo Family YMCA is more times. than a gym and a place to swim. We are Edwards has been with Campo a place where youth, adults, families and Family YMCA for six years. According to seniors can come together to stay active, Jarrod Williams, Center Executive socialize, meet their health and wellness Director for the Campo Family YMCA, goals and really reach their full potential.” “We nominated Chris because of the For more information, please call sheer joy he brings to the members and 684-1371.
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Page 20 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
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Page 21 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
The Magic Of Motherhood
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Mother’s Day is celebrated on Sunday, May 12, and millions of mothers will receive flowers, chocolates, beautiful finger-painted pictures and maybe even a day of rest. For 21 years, I’ve had the privilege to celebrate Mother’s Day, but I learned the hard way that motherhood isn’t always joyful. As I’ve walked through my motherhood journey, I have realized that we all have different experiencesas mothers. Dear new mothers or struggling mothers—don’t let comparisons steal your joy of motherhood. Comparing myself and my children to others was stealing my joy. Embrace YOUR journey. Embrace the hardship. Even though your days may not look like what you thought they would, tell yourself that this is the day that the Lord has made. I wish I would have learned this life lesson 21 years ago. Oddly enough, even now that my children are all adults, I still struggle with comparison and looking back on things I wish I had done differently. Stop fighting what God has put in front of you and rejoice each day with everything that comes with it. Remember that even on the longest days, life is short. Enjoy your children and your motherhood journey!
Your Mom Walk with God: Staying Faithful on the Path of Motherhood By Sally Clarkson Motherhood is a journey. You love being a mother. You cherish your children. You long for them to grow up to be mature, loving, fruitful and faithful followers of God. But you know that means you’re called to be that kind of mom. It means you must stay faithful on God’s path of motherhood for you. In this book, you will find encouragement and hope for your own mom walk.
Chin Up: Wearing Grace, Strength, and Dignity When Motherhood Unravels Our Souls By Amy Seiffert
Have you ever faced yourself in the mirror and wondered why motherhood fits like a glove on others but feels so graceless on you? Does motherhood look beautiful on some women but feels like a lopsided dress on you? With humor and honesty, this book walks you through the grace and glory of motherhood in the mundane tasks and maddening moments of everyday life. Unravels the mysteries of motherhood and the gifts to be found when we keep our Chin Up and see what God is doing through our motherhood.
From Grouchy to Great: Finding Joy in the Journey of Motherhood By Ruth Schwenk
As moms, we all sometimes struggle to keep it together. In a moment, anger or frustration can spill out. The battle for Jesus to reign in our hearts and through our emotions is a fight we all face every single day. From Grouchy to Great is a devotional filled with real-life stories that will help encourage you and remind you that the battle is won by God's grace and wisdom.
Mom Up: Thriving with Grace in the Chaos of Motherhood By Kara-Kae James
Every mom can identify with the feeling that they’re in a race to the finish line every day, stumbling over everything in their path—including Legos and dirty laundry. This book shares four themes that impact daily life including intentional motherhood, genuine community, refreshing rest and embracing chaos. With practical ideas for building relationships with other moms, grace-filled Scripture reminders and a healthy dose of humor, this book helps readers step out of survival mode and into the abundant life God has for them.
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Sports 657-2418 www.christianvoicemonthly.com
Connection By Nick Nahas, Photos courtesy of Jarrett Guthrie of 813preps.com
First-Year Head JV Basketball Coach Kris Suarez Leads Bell Shoals Panthers
By Nick Nahas
The Panthers go in for a layup in the 18-13 win against Central Baptist.
The Bell Shoals Baptist Academy JV boys basketball team is off to a quick 3-1 start in the Tampa Bay Christian Athletic League (TBCAL) this season. The Panthers are led by first-year Head Coach Kris Suarez. Suarez is also the varsity girls soccer head coach, and he was a substitute teacher at the school. He has four children, two that attend the school. His daughter, Sophia, plays on the JV basketball team and on the varsity soccer team as well. His wife, Diana, teaches Chinese students online how to speak English. Suarez has grown up playing sports, and he
The Panthers are off to a quick 3-0 start.
and Diana both have dreams of one day starting their own school similar to Bell Shoals, but abroad. The 4th, 5th and 6th grade players on the JV team include: Reid Freda, Carson Corey, Micah Goldstein, Shepherd Sweers, Drew VanDeman, J Hogan Reeves, Gavin Cox, Isaiah Castiano, Chandler Watkins, Christian Ringuette, Ian Peters, Ben Koutz, Ashton Mahzamani and Cameron Shenefield. “My goal is to help the kids develop and learn the game,” said Suarez. “I want to make sure that they enjoy playing basketball, that we have fun
Bell Shoals Baptist Academy hopes to contend for the playoffs next month.
and we come back next year, and that they want to play again. That’s my number one goal with coaching kids at this age level, teaching them sportsmanship and teaching them how to be respectful.” Suarez recalls a game earlier in the season where his team had a big lead and was winning 23-2. His starters wanted to go back into the game, but he didn’t want to embarrass the other team, so he used the opportunity to let his younger players get some playing time. “I want to get them used to not only competing, but also to remember
that we are here to glorify the Lord and we want to have honor and respect for whoever we are playing against; that way, hopefully, we get that same respect shown to us, too,” said Suarez. The Panthers have had a tremendous start to their season, beating Central Baptist 18-13, and they hope to contend for the playoffs that begin May 2nd-3rd, with the Championship being played on May 9. Eight teams will be eligible and the host sites are to be decided. The format will be single-elimination in the TBCAL Tournament.
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Page 23 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
BAPTIST Bay Life Church 1017 Kingsway Ave., Brandon (813) 661-3696 Bell Shoals Baptist - Brandon 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 Congregación Hispana 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 ext. 242 Bell Shoals Baptist - Apollo Beach 408 Apollo Beach Blvd., Apollo Beach (813) 641-2222 Bell Shoals Baptist - Palm River 5415 Palm River Rd.,Tampa (813) 621-2058 Bell Shoals Baptist - Riverview 9990 South Hwy 301, Suite 10024, Riverview (813) 689-4229 First Baptist Church of Brandon 216 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon (813) 689-1204 First Baptist Church of Bloomingdale 3303 Bloomingdale Ave.,Valrico (813) 689-3847 First Baptist Church of Gibsonton 9912 Indiana St., Gibsonton (813) 677-1301 First Baptist Church of Ruskin 820 College Ave. W., Ruskin (813) 645-6439 FishHawk Fellowship 15326 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia, (813) 655-7431 Grace Baptist Church 2909 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-7190 Journey Church 1310 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 699-8262 Shiloh Baptist Church 1104 Cason St., Plant City (813) 752-8345 CATHOLIC Nativity Catholic Church 705 E Brandon Blvd., Brandon (813) 681-4608 St. Anne Catholic Church 106 11th Ave. NE, Ruskin (813) 645-1714
TUTORING
St. Matthews Anglican Church 10701 Bloomingdale Avenue, Riverview 813-663-0334 St. Stephen Catholic Church 10118 Saint Stephen Circle, Riverview (813) 689-4900 CHURCH OF GOD Boyette Springs Church of God 12114 Boyette Rd., Riverview (813) 671-0086 Plant City Church of God 2103 Mud Lake Rd., Plant City (813) 752-4591 EPISCOPAL Holy Innocents' Episcopal Church 604 N. Valrico Rd., Valrico (813) 689-3130 LUTHERAN Immanuel Lutheran Church 2913 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-1787 Living Savior Lutheran Church 2650 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico (813) 681-2375 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Seffner 1310 South Kingsway Rd., Seffner (813) 689-3513 Grace Community United Methodist Church 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Lithia (813) 661-8858 • info@mygraceumc.com New Hope United Methodist Church 120 N. Knights Ave., Brandon (813) 689-4161 Riverview First United Methodist Church 8002 US Hwy 301., Riverview www.riverviewflumc.org Ruskin United Methodist Church 105 4th Ave. NW, Ruskin (813) 645-1241 South Shore United Methodist Church 11525 Big Bend Rd., Riverview (813) 649-9462 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Destiny Church 2322 11th Ave. SE, Ruskin (813) 645-3337 Centerpoint Church 1801 S. Miller Rd., Valrico (813) 689-1906
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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 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 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 (813) 741-1776 Westminster Presbyterian Church PCA 402 E. Lumsden Rd., Brandon (813) 689-6541
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Page 24 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2019
2019 Summer Camps Offer Many Options To Keep Active & Engaged It’s that time of the year when parents are beginning to wonder how they will keep the kids busy during the dog days of summer. What can you do to keep the kids entertained? Where can they go to try new things, learn how to swim, meet new friends and have great fun? There are many options to choose from locally that will fit the bill. The staff at the Osprey Observer has collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created this special pull out section. Maybe your kids would like to spend the summer ‘horsing around.’ R&R Ranch offers that opportunity, and not just to learn to horseback ride, but also about the care of the horses. At Music Showcase, music and theatre take the stage and so can your child. Musicals such as Willy Wonka and Frozen Jr. will be offered, and your child can hold starring roles in these and other popular musicals offered from the Florida Academy of Performing Arts for children ages 5 and up. For your actor or musician, don’t forget to also check out Firehouse Cultural Center and Patel
Conservatory, which also offer fun and exciting ideas. The local YMCAs will offer many types of camps which mix fun along with great learning experiences. With plenty of choices, there is something for everyone. Mathnasium offers ways to keep your student’s math skills from getting rusty in a fun environment. Do you have a child interested in cooking? Check out Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium’s Cooking Camps for Kids through Teens. With weekly themes utilizing agespecific activities and field trips that make BSAC unique, your kids will enjoy every moment of summer camp. Specialty camps for Baseball (Ostingers), Legos (Bricks4Kidz), Art (Center Place) and Tennis (FishHawk Ranch Tennis Club) also offer great opportunities. For dates, prices and registration information on these and more, turn the page and enjoy this special section and have a great summer. Did we miss one? Let us know by emailing subject line ‘Summer Camp’ to michelle@ospreyobserver.com and we will be sure to add to our full listing online.
Spots Filling Fast For Outdoor Adventure At Tampa YMCA Summer Camp This is the year to experience YMCA Summer Camp. Registration is now open for the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA’s newly enhanced summer camp program. Y Summer Camp 2019 offers children a day camp curriculum full of fun, educational activities. Activity specialists will lead campers through various experiences each day including swimming, science, high ropes, outdoor education, nature encounters, horseback riding, canoeing, visual arts and more. The fun and unique experiences give Y campers an opportunity to explore the outdoors, meet new friends, discover new interests and create memories that last a lifetime. In Y Summer Camp, kids are in a welcoming environment where they can belong, build relationships, develop character and discover their potential. New for 2019, parents now have the option to add on before- and after-care activities which include swimming, horseback riding, sports and high ropes. There are also various specialty camps where campers will be immersed in their selected specialty in addition to enjoying traditional camp fun. Activities and specialty
KIDS
Summer Camps (Ages 6-11) 10:30am - 1:00pm
Staff Report
options vary by location. Once again, Hillsborough County Public Schools has committed to providing free breakfast and lunch as part of the Summer Food Program. The program runs from Monday, June 3 – Friday, August 2 and is open to all kids in the community ages 18 and under, including Y campers. To find out the time frames when free breakfast and lunch are available, contact your local Y. Visit https://www.tampaymca.org/locations for locations. Spots are filling fast at 14 locations across Hillsborough and East Pasco counties, including four sites for the Y’s The First Tee of Tampa Bay program. (www.thefirstteetampabay.org/informationsummer-camps/). Experience summer camp locally at: Campo Family YMCA in Valrico (6841371), North Brandon Family YMCA (685-5402), Spurlino Family YMCA at Big Bend Rd. in Riverview (228-9622) and YMCA Camp Cristina in Riverview (6778400). To ensure your kids stay engaged socially, physically and academically throughout the summer, register today at www.tampaymca.org/letscamp.
June 3-6 June 10-13 June 17-20 June 24-27 July 8-11 July 15-18 July 22-25 July 29-Aug 1 Aug 5-8
TWEEN’S & TEENS
Summer Camps (Ages 11-15) 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Brandon’s Big Green “EggQuarters”
Registration Open For Patel Conservatory Summer Camps And Classes
By Leslie Farrell
tions will be held Friday, May 17. Dancers age seven and older will attend placement classes to determine which classes are most appropriate. Those younger than seven are not required to attend a placement class. Registration for auditions is required by visiting www.strazcenter.org/auditions or by calling 222-1040. Nearly $200,000 in scholarships will be awarded Registration is for Patel Conservatory now open for Patel camps and classes this sumConservatory mer. Scholarship applications dance, music and are available online at theater summer www.strazcenter.org/financamps and classes, cialaid. which begin the Patel Conservatory is now regisThe accredited Patel week of Monday, tering for its summer camps and Conservatory offers classes June 3. classes. Some will require auditions. in dance, music and theater Nearly 70 camps for students of all ages and experience and classes are offered, most with perlevels. Each year, the Patel formance opportunities, for students of all ages and abilities. Camps and class- Conservatory and the Straz Center’s arts education programs enrich the es vary from jazz dance to jazz music, lives of more than 50,000 students in from Shakespeare to Annie to Comedy our classrooms, on our stages and on Broadway, and from Ukelele Camp through the community. to Youth Opera Camp. A complete line Events, days, dates, times and up is online at prices are subject to change without www.patelconservatory.org. Some summer camps and classes, notice. Patel Conservatory is located at the which are held for all ages and abilities, Straz Center for the Performing Arts, require auditions. Music auditions will be held Tuesday, May 21. Theater audi- 1010 N. W.C. Macinnes Pl. in Tampa.
Game Show Themes Add Up To Summer Camp Fun At 2019 Camp BSAC
Staff Report
BSAC offers a game show themed summer experience for campers this year.
BSAC Campers can once again look forward to exciting themed weeks of fun camp experiences. BSAC’s ‘Who’s Got Game’ theme is based around game shows. Have you always wanted to be a contestant in your favorite TV game show? Now you can. Each themed week runs from Monday to Friday (except week 5 when there is no camp on the 4th of July). Week 1: SURVIVOR - June 3 – June 7; Week 2: ESCAPE ROOM June 10 – June 14; Week 3: THE AMAZING RACE - June 17 – June 21; Week 4: FEAR FACTOR - June 18 – June 22; Week 5: MINUTE TO WIN IT
- July 1 – July 5 *Closed July 4th; Week 6: DOUBLE DARE - July 8 – July 12; Week 7: WIN, LOSE, DRAW - July 15 – July 19; Week 8: WIPE OUT - July 22 – July 26; Week 9: FAMILY FEUD - July 29 – August 2 and Week 10: THE REUNION SHOW August 5 – August 9. Registration fees are $45 per child or $85 per family. It includes one camp T-shirt and one backpack per camper. The cost for camp per child is $150 full a full day (7 a.m.-6:30 p.m.); $90 week for half day – either 7 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or 1 p.m.-6:30 p.m. If you want to bring your child for drop in days, the cost is $40 for the day from 7 a.m.6:30 p.m. Drop in days must be selected and paid in advance to reserve and are non-refundable. Field trips are offered throughout the season at extra cost and are optional. BSA is located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon. For more information, call 689-0908 or visit www.mybsacorg.
Enjoy The Summer Scene 2019 At The Florida Academy of Performing Arts
Make Summer Days Happy Days At Happy Day Summer Camp
Full and half day camps are available for kids ages 5 and up at The Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) at Music Showcase. Musical Theatre productions of Willy Wonka (June 3-14), Once Upon A Mattress (June 10-21), Frozen Jr. (June 17-28), The Wizard of Oz Jr. (July 8-19), Once on This Island (July 15-26), and The Lion King Jr. (July 22-August 2) will all take place this summer for ages 5 and up. Campers will participate in various classes each day that are customized to fit their appropriate age groups and will experience, music, acting, singing, dance, creative art, rock camp and more. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, call 490-2787 or visit faopa.org.
Weekly themes that are fun for your kids ages 1 to 10 will include many activities that will keep them moving and having a great summer. The days will include plenty of arts & crafts, friendships as well as academic summer fun. Music, sports & games, character and manners, bouncy house and giant slide with outdoor water play round out the fun. Kids will enjoy an ice cream social and much more. The cost is $100 per week for upcoming K5 to 5th grade campers. This includes all field trips and weekly activities such as bowling, skating, AMC Movies, state parks, MOSI, public library, Publix, Florida Aquarium, Lowry Park Zoo, Dinosaur World and more. Happy Day Summer Camp is open from Monday to Friday from 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. and is located at 722 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon. For more information, call 685-0028.
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WWW.CAMPOSPREY.COM -6860
941-928
t pt Secre Best Ke pa Bay! in Tam
All-Inclusive Kids Overnight Adventure Camp For Ages 7-15 $450 Week - Sunday - Saturday Day Camp Available: Mon - Fri 8 am to 6 pm $195 - By the day $39 Breakfast and lunch is provided.
Our instructors have 30 years combined professional playing and coaching experience.
Session 1 June 3-7 (M-F)
Session 2 July 8-12 (M-F)
Session 3 July 29-Aug 2 (M-F)
Location:
M-W Ostingers Academy • 8711 Lithia Pinecrest Road Th-F Field for games and other activities Space is Limited Age Group: 7 - 14 yrs Register Early Time: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm to hold your spot! Cost: $180/camper **(Second Child $130) **Multi week discounts
Daily Instruction • Games • Pitching/Catching Fundamentals Addressed • Drills For More Information:
Call 813.737.3000 or visit our website at www.OstingBaseball.com
Bricks 4 Kidz Offers LEGO® Summer Camps
Bricks 4 Kidz is back with awesome LEGO® Summer Camps being offered all over the Brandon, Riverview and Valrico areas. Join in for a different theme each week such as Fortnite, Pokemon, Star Wars, Minecraft and much more. Each week campers will be building signature Bricks 4 Kidz robotic LEGO® models, very popular LEGO® mosaics and 3D LEGO® sculptures, as well as playing fun games and creating arts and crafts projects they will get to take home. At the end of each week, every camper will get to take home their very own LEGO® minifigure. Each day and week will be a brand new LEGO® adventure you won’t want to miss! The schedule for the camps being offered at nearby locations is as follows: We Rock The Spectrum Monday to Friday, June 10–14: LEGO® Gamer’s World July 1 – July 5: LEGO® Summer Theme Mashup (Single Day Pricing:
No July 4 Camp) Monday to Thursday, July 15– July 18: LEGO® STAR WARS/MINECRAFT Mashup (Four Day Pricing). The Venue In Riverview Monday to Friday, June 17– June 21: LEGO® Summer
Monday to Friday, July 8 – July 12: LEGO® STAR WARS/MINECRAFT Mashup Monday to Friday, August 5 - August 9: LEGO® Summer Theme Mashup Sign up at www.bricks4kidz.com/floridatampa or call 545-4282.
Center Place Fine Arts Offer Summer Art Camp To Brighten The Day
Who knew that art could be
Theme
Pencil Drawings Cruise Around the World, West & Wild Canvases, Ceramic Sculpture, Recycled Art, Landscape Drawings, Paper Sculptures, Space Art, Mixed Media and more. Center Place is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon. For more information or to register, visit www.centerplacebrandon.org or call 685-8888.
Fun And Education Spins Throughout The Summer At Kids ‘R’ Kids
Mashup Monday to Friday, August 5 August 9: Bricks 4 Girls LEGO® Camp with Girls With Confidence FishHawk Aquatic Center Monday to Friday, June 3 – June 7: LEGO® Gamer’s World
so much fun? This summer, register your 7-13 year old to discover their love of painting, drawing, pottery and more. Classes are offered Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include Art Mural, Animal Paintings,
Kids ‘R’ Kids is excited to launch a new twist on camp where kids are redefining summer and turning ordinary days into the extraordinary. Just as fragments inside a kaleidoscope fuse together to captivate us with a new perspective, Kaleidoscope 360° will
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SOCCER FUN WITH COACH JUAN Boys and Girls
Boys and Girls
born between 2012 and 2007
born between 2006 and 2002
Soccer Fields of the FishHawk Sports Complex Lithia FL
Soccer Fields of the Fishhawk Sports Complex Lithia FL
July 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 2019 9.00 am to 1.00 pm
July 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 2019 9.00 am to 1.00 pm
$195.00 if registered before April 15, 2019 • $215.00 if registered after April 15, 2019 CAMP FEATURES: Age appropriate technical and tactical instruction • Small sided games • Daily 5 v 5 Competitions • Daily Soccer Tennis and Soccer Golf Competitions • Professional coaching staff • Athletic Trainer onsite • Hydration Station • Camp T Shirt Registration:www.floridahawksfc.com Contact Juan E De Brigard, Director of Coaching, Florida Hawks FC | doc@floridahawksfc.com • Cell # 754 244 3016
GOALKEEPER SUMMER CAMP
STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING CAMP
Age Groups: 8U – 10U, 11U - 12U,13U and Up, College Level July 29,30, 31, August 1, 2, 2019 8.00 am to 2.30 pm
Monday through Friday, starting June 24 until August 2, 2019 8.00 am to 10.00 am
Fishhawk Sports Complex, Lithia, FL
First two weeks: Randall Fields, then Soccer Fields of the FishHawk Sports Complex, Lithia FL
Investment: $495.00
$50.00 for 5 days • $100.00 for 10 days • $150.00 for 15 days
CAMP FEATURES: Daily session of specific, age appropriate Goalkeeper Skills & tactical aspects of the Goalkeeper Position Daily Video Session on technical and tactical aspects of the Goalkeeper Position Daily “Only a Goalkeeper can do it” Competition, Crossbar Challenge Competition & Goalkeeper War Competition Experienced Coaching Staff and optimal Coach to Player Ratio Athletic Trainer onsite • Hydration Station • Camp T Shirt Registration: www.floridahawksfc.com Contact Juan E De Brigard, Director of Coaching, Florida Hawks FC | doc@floridahawksfc.com • Cell # 754 244 3016
CAMP FEATURES: Age appropriate physical, technical and tactical instruction • Speed • Agility Explosiveness/Reaction • Power Strength • Conditioning• Daily Soccer skills Professional and Certified coaching staff • Athletic Trainer onsite Hydration Station • Camp T Shirt
Male / Female Goalkeepers
Boys and Girls born between 2012 and 2001
Registration: www.floridahawksfc.com Contact Kaneile Thomas, Camp Director | k.thomas@floridahawksfc.com • Cell # 561 685 1328
spin this summer into a unique dimension of discovery, fun and friendships through various weekly themes. This summer promises a wellsupervised, engaging and enriching camp for preschool and elementary aged children. Extended hours, meals/snacks, weekly field trips, sports and more are being offered.
Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium Is Cooking Up Some Summer Fun
Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium’s Summer Camps are a great way to learn new skills in the kitchen, create tasty recipes, and meet lots of new friends. The only things you need to be prepared are closed toe shoes and a restraint for shoulder length hair. All of the ingredients, tools and even the fun are included. Students are taught how to properly use real kitchen tools, knives and appliances safely under
adult supervision. Students come away with the confidence to prepare dishes that are age appropriate and tasty. The goal is to encourage your child to be a help in the kitchen and to have fun while building a lifetime of good skills. Cooking Camps for kids ages 611 will take place from 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. daily and the tween’s and teen’s Summer Camps, ages 11-15 will take place from 2-4 p.m. Camps will take place weekly for four days and run from Monday, June 3 through Thursday, August 2. Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium is located at Brandon Crossroads, 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon. Call 653-2418 or visit www.rollingpinonline.com.
Musical Theater And Much More Offered At Firehouse Cultural Center
Hoop It Up At FishHawk Fellowship’s Basketball Camp
Take your game to the next level. Develop your skills and have fun doing it. Work daily to improve every player’s technical abilities. Camp is suitable for everyone from beginners to elite players. FishHawk Fellowship Church is partnering with Alpha & Omega Sports, Inc. Its staff designs intense, fun training sessions. Camp will run Monday, June 24 to Friday, June 28 for grades 2-5 and Monday, July 22 to Friday, July 26 for grades 6-12. Both camps will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at FishHawk Fellowship Church, 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. The cost is $100 per student. For more information, visit www.fishhawkfc.org/basketball.
Tennis Camp Weeks Offered In FishHawk
FishHawk Ranch Tennis Club will offer camp this summer for ages 6 to 16. Camp is for beginning and intermediate skill levels. Choose your weeks between Monday, June 3 and Friday, August 9. Full day camp available or half days from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. or 1:304 p.m. are available. Camp will be offered at
15921 Courtside View Dr. in Lithia. Register online at http://fishhawkranchtennisclub.com or call 681-4000.
The Firehouse Cultural Center will be offering Summer Camp through the summer. It is located at 101 1st Ave. NE in Ruskin. Week 1: June 3 – June 7 Musical Theater I; Week 2: June 10 – June 14; Musical Theater II Week 3: June 17 – June 21; Musical Theater III; Week 4: June 24 – June 28; Musical Theater IV Week 5: July 1 - July 5 (No Camp on Thursday, July 4), Art Studio; Week 6: July 8 - July 12, Art Studio II; Week 7: July 15 – July 19, Cartooning & Animation; Week 8: July 22 – July 26, Robotics-Tech Fee for Robotics: $50; Week 9: July 29 – August 2, Robotics -Tech Fee for Robotics: $50. For more information, call 6457651 or visit www.firehouseculturalcenter.org.
MAC Summer Sports Camps
The MAC Center located at First Baptist Church of Brandon is offering multiple sports summer camps from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (unless otherwise specified). The cost for each camp is $100 except for Harlem Legends, which is $140. Camp weeks will run
from Monday to Friday. Camps are: MAC Basketball (ages 7-12) - June 10-14, Harlem Legends Shoot for the Stars (ages 7-14) – June 24-28; MAC Girls Volleyball (ages 8-13) July 8-12; MAC Soccer (ages 7-12) –July 1519; MAC Basketball (ages 9-13) July 22-26 and MAC Coed Volleyball (ages 8-13) - July 29-August 2. Registration forms for MAC summer sports camps can be picked up at the MAC Front desk or downloaded at https://themacgym.org/mtcontent/uploads/2019/04/campregistrationform2019.pdf . The Harlem Legends Basketball Camp forms can be downloaded at https://themacgym.org/mtcontent/uploads/2019/04/legendscamp2019.pdf. Sign up early as camps fill up fast. Form and registration fees may be dropped off at the MAC front desk or mailed to the church marked ‘Attention: MAC.’ Make checks payable to: First Baptist Church of Brandon, 216 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon, FL. For more information, please call the MAC at 3153280.
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SUMMER CAMP 2019
JUNE 3 - AUGUST 2
SUMMER CAMP 2019 Award Winning STEM Camps Since 2005 Where Bright & Creative Kids Play to Learn
813-444-2267 | techplayzone@gmail.com
Combat Dreaded Summer Slide With Mathnasium Of Brandon Or Mathnasium @Home
Kids can power up this summer with Mathnasium of Brandon or Mathnasium @home. The summer slide is real and students can lose over two months of mathematical skills every summer. Mathnasium can help prevent that with its Power Up summer programs. Summer is an ideal time for student's math ability to skyrocket. Without the pressure of school and extracurricular activities, students are able to focus and learn in a relaxed atmosphere, and they will love coming to Mathnasium as FUN is built in to the mathematical activities along with celebrating successes and fun prizes for outstanding attendance and growth. "Take advantage of the more relaxed environment of summer break which is a golden opportunity to improve math performance whether your student is struggling or just wanting to dig deeper into their math studies," suggest Becky McDaniels, center director at Mathnasium of Brandon and Mathnasium @home. Mathnasium's @home program is an additional benefit for students who would like to keep up their skills but are traveling. You can take Mathnasium anywhere with Mathnasium @home. Mathnasium will help parents choose a Summer Power Workout Plan, such as
numerical fluency, fractions, multiplication fluency, problem solving, algebra readiness, geometry readiness and so much more based on a diagnostic
of the student. Experts say that the effects of a summer learning program, such as Mathnasium's, will make a positive difference for student's moving forward. Call 655-MATH (6284) or visit www.mathnasium.com/brandon/promotions to schedule your student's risk free diagnostic at your favorite neighborhood center or at home with the Mathnasium @home program and help your student to Power Up this summer. Mathnasium of Brandon is located at 1048 E Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico (Plaza Bella shopping center).
Summer Camps For Girls Develop Positive Self Esteem
Girls With Confidence offers fun and creative workshops, events and camps for girls in K-8th grade that focus on the development of strong self-esteem and confidence. This summer, Girls With Confidence will help your daughter between the ages of Kindergarten through rising 6th graders develop positive self-esteem during day camps geared just for them this summer.
Themes will include Friendship, Girl Power, Role Models, Positive Mind & Attitude, Love My Selfie, Being Brave and Taking Care of Yourself & more. Overnight camps will also be offered for those in 6-8th grade. Volunteer opportunities are available for high school girls. Visit www.girlswithconfidence.com for more information. You can also email info@girlswithconfidence.com or call 5712002.
TechPlayzone Offers Hands-On Technology Enrichment In Fun & Safe Environment TechPlayzone has led the charge for engaging young people in science, technology, engineering and math since 2005. With an increased demand for hands-on technology enrichment,
TechPlayzone has continued to provide families with an excellent curriculum and fun in a safe environment for all kids. Give your child a high-tech advantage at TechPlayzone this summer. TechPlayzone is pleased to offer 4
weeks (July 8, 15, 22 and 29) of STEM Camp for elementary and middle school students ages 7-13. Middle school camp is 8 a.m.-12 Noon and elementary school camp is 9 a.m.-12 Noon. For the elementary camp, TechPlayzone is honored to partner with FIRST LEGO League at Hillsborough Community College to power the FIRST LEGO League Camp. Every week of TechPlayzone camp includes: LEGO Mindstorms Robotics, Minecraft for Jr. Engineers Hands-On Science Experiments, Scratch Game Design. It will take place at HCC Brandon Campus, located at 10414 E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa. For middle school (68th grade) students, TechPlayzone offers engineering enrichment. Using TechPlayzone’s formula of hands-on project-based learning with cutting edge technology, students can work at their own pace or work as a team with the assistance of facilitators and staff members to complete one of the engineering projects each week. Register for your choice of Minecraft Mods and Raspberry Pi, LEGO EV3 with RobotC, App Inventor App Development and Programmable Drones. Contact Desh Bagley at 444-2267 or techplayzone@gmail.com.
FishHawk). The cost is $225 per week. Register for four weeks and the fifth week is free. Call 248-935-5564 for more information. Visit on Instagram: @2A_ELITE_SPORTS_TRAINING.
Kids Club! Weekly Summer Camp Includes Field Trips
Sign up today for $110 per week. The price includes two weekly field trips and all activities. Your kids, ages K5-5th grade, will enjoy arts & crafts, friendship play, academic summer fun, music, sports & games, character & manners, ice cream social, pizza parties, bouncy house and giant slide and outdoor water play at Morning Glory Summer Camp . Field trips include bowling, skating, state parks, movies, Medieval Times Theater, Pump It Up, MOSI, Bricks 4 Kidz, Lowry Park Zoo, ACH Video Arcade, Great Explorations Children’s Museum, Florida Aquarium and more. Morning Glory is located at 6001 Christy Ln. (off Bloomingdale near Rt. 301). For more information, call 628-0541 or visit www.MorningGloryPreschool.org.
Sports Performance Conditioning Summer Camp
This summer your student athletes ages 12-18 can attend 2A Elite’s Sports Training Performance Conditioning Summer Camp, helping athletes to work on first step
Summer Camps At Adventures Archery
explosion, multidirectional movement, speed endurance, maximum linear acceleration and combine drills. The coaches with NFL, Olympic and Collegiate experience moving your gains to the next level. The coaches include Coach Rey, previously head track coach at USF and Texas A&M; Antonio Bishop, former NFL Recruit; and other current college athletes who will be leading this camp. If you train here, you can compete anywhere. Camp will take place from Monday, June 10 to Thursday, August 1 at 6026 Churchside Dr. in Lithia (at the field at The Chapel at
Kids from the ages of 8-16 can spend some time this summer honing their skills at archery. Learn about range safety, archery skills and arrow fletching. Summer camps will take place during three sessions from 10 a.m.-12 Noon daily. The sessions are Monday to Wednesday, June 17-1,; July 8-10 and July 22-24. Camp will be available at both locations-2210 W. US Hwy. 301 in Tampa and 2332 E. Edgewood Dr. in Lakeland. The cost is $100 per child with equipment rental, $60 per child who does not need to rent equipment. Space is limited. You can preregister by calling 664-8700 or 863937-8968. Visit http://www.adven-
turesarchery.com/.
Camp Osprey Offers Overnight Camping Options
Camp Osprey is the area’s best-kept secret. Boys and girls ages 7-15 can enjoy a week of adventure at a traditional overnight camp. It is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands, nestled alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma . While at camp, kids will enjoy horseback riding, paintball, high ropes challenge course, canoeing, fishing, color games, archery, gaga ball and much more. Overnight camp runs from Sunday through Saturday. The allinclusive cost of $450 includes weekly laundry, camp shirt, meals and all activities. Day camp is also available Monday to Friday from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. for $195 or a daily drop-in fee of $39 per day. This includes breakfast and lunch. For more information, call 941928-6860 or visit www.camposprey.com.