hly.com www.christianvoicemont 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 24, Issue 2
A Free Publication from Osprey Observer Inc.
February 2020
Plant City F.A.I.T.H. Riders: Motorcycle Ministry
23
Offers On Page 3
3
Strawberry Fest
The phrase ‘where the rubber meets the road’ is fitting when used to describe the F.A.I.T.H. Riders motorcycle ministry. Employing motorcycles as a tool and transportation, the F.A.I.T.H. Riders ministry is passionate about going into the world and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. Established in 2002 by the late Buddy Newsome, F.A.I.T.H. Riders began as a ministry of Lakeland’s Every year, a group of F.A.I.T.H. Riders set up a tent at Church at the Mall. Since Daytona’s Bike Week to raffle off a motorcycle and share the love of Jesus. then, the ministry has must be a ministry of a local spread across the nation encompassSouthern Baptist church and include ing 365 chapters. The Plant City worship, evangelism, discipleship, chapter is one of 54 chapters located fellowship and ministry. Additionally, in Florida and based out of the First chapters are encouraged to support Baptist Church of Plant City. other ministries within the church Sam DeMicco and her husband, and its surrounding community. Roy, are members of the Plant City “The motorcycle is a tool, and it chapter and work on its assessment helps us go into places where there’s team. The assessment team travels a lot of unchurched people,” explained around Florida, visiting inactive chapDeMicco. “Your average biker is not ters and educating churches about your average churchgoer.” the ministry. Every year, representatives from “Our goal is to show that we are F.A.I.T.H. Riders set up a tent at more than a riding club,” explained Daytona’s Bike Week, where they DeMicco. “We don’t require anybody look for opportunities to reach others to ride a motorcycle. We want people for Christ. To draw people to their who desire to spread the gospel.” tent, they raffle off a brand-new While each F.A.I.T.H. Riders chapmotorcycle, and the only way to enter ter may operate slightly different, it
By Amanda Boston
is by listening to a threeminute testimony from one of the F.A.I.T.H. Riders. She continued, “There are a lot of people who are interested in motorcycles. Getting gas is where I have most of my conversations. People say, ‘nice motorcycle,’ and it opens that door for a conversation, and then I can talk to people about Jesus.” The F.A.I.T.H. acronym stands for Forgiveness, Available, Impossible, Turn and Heaven. For further description, please visit www.faithriders.com, where you can also donate online to the mission. The Plant City chapter is based out of First Baptist Church of Plant City, located at 3309 James L. Redman Pkwy. For more information on where it gathers and upcoming events, please visit https://plantcityfaithriders.com or contact its director, Roger Blethen, at 924-9035.
Franklin Graham’s Sunshine Tour Draws Close To 10,000
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On January 12, Franklin Graham, the eldest son of the late Billy Graham, stopped in Plant City on his Decision America Sunshine State Tour. The free evangelistic event drew more than 9,600 people—approaching the seating capacity of the Strawberry Festival Soundstage. While Plant City may be synonymous with strawberries, the city also earned a new distinction—the largest number of volunteers to serve at a Decision America Tour event. Nearly 1,000 trained volunteers from 40 local churches prepared and participated in the prayer rally. "Many people in Plant City don't know who God is. They think God is irrelevant, boring, or they think He doesn't care about them," said Scott McIntosh, senior pastor of City Pointe Church. "When we truly experience God and His powerful love for us, it changes us. Plant City needs to hear this message that gives our lives meaning and purpose." In a face-to-face interview before the event, Franklin Graham was asked for advice on how to reach others for Christ. He said, "For every person who claims the name of Jesus Christ, they have a responsibility to share our faith with others and to give them the hope that we have. And so, you don’t have to have the gift of
By Amanda Boston
evangelism to share your testimony; the Holy Spirit will take that and do the rest." The event kicked off with music from the award-winning guitarist Dennis Agajanian, who began performing at Billy Graham’s events more than 40 years ago. Then taking the stage was the GRAMMY®-nominated artist Jeremy Camp, who shared his music and his motivation for performing. Camp said, “I’m not out here trying to be a rock star or trying just to sing music. I’m out here because Jesus Christ changed my life.” Following Camp’s performance, Franklin Graham was greeted with
thunderous applause. He remarked on the city’s beautiful weather before delving into the issues dividing the country. Then he encouraged everyone to pray for all elected leaders— national, state and local, regardless of party affiliation. The entire venue buzzed as thousands of prayers were lifted toward heaven. His message centered on the hope that can only be found in Jesus Christ. After presenting the gospel, many rose from their seats and professed Jesus as their Lord and Savior. As people stood, the on-site volunteers furnished the new believers with resources to help them cultivate a relationship with Jesus and get plugged into a local church. Franklin Graham is the president and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Samaritan’s Purse. For more information, visit https://billygraham.org.
Page 2 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
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Griffin & Associates, P.A. 1430 Oakfield Drive • Brandon, Florida 33511
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Eileen H. Griffin
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Page 3 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
Greater Brandon Charity To Hold Its 18th Annual Golf Classic
Farmworker Ministry Helps Students Succeed
By Amanda Boston
Nestled in Wimauma, the student, reporting back the Beth-El Farmworker to me and keeping up a posMinistry has been assistitive relationship with their ing Hispanic farmworkers student.” and their families since The Step Up for 1976. Every week, BethSuccess program has stuEl serves nearly 600 famdents attending the ilies through its food University of Southern pantry. Florida, Hillsborough The nonprofit not Community College (HCC), only seeks to provide Mantatee Technical College Pictured are Angel hunger relief but also and the Aveda Institute for Maldonado, a mentee of the feed the mind and spirit. Cosmetology. Currently, it Step Up for Success program, and his mentor, It offers services and has 20 students in the proDean Vittetoe. resources for education, gram. As a former educator, healthcare and spiritual Welton Barragán explained that growth. With the average the success of the program is not farmworker having a fifth about the numbers. grade education, many have She said, “We (Beth-El) difficulty helping their adult chilserve the working poor who work dren navigate a career outside long, brutal hours. It’s especially of farmwork. important to encourage these kids and Through its Step Up for Success pro- help them realize their worth. Changing gram, Beth-El provides support and men- even just one kid’s life can have a positoring for these young adults who desire tive effect on the entire community.” further education and career training. Dean Vittetoe mentors Angel Candidates for the program are typically Maldonado. They meet weekly to outline 17-25 years old and work with a volunteer goals and explore interests and strengths. mentor. Through Vittetoe’s encouragement, While the program helps with finanMaldonado began taking classes at HCC cial aid and offers small scholarships, the and has even earned a scholarship and heart of the program is the mentor and work-study. mentee relationship. The mentors guide If you would like more information on and encourage these young adults to fulhow to become a mentor or tutor for the fill their God-given purpose. MaryEllen Step Up for Success program and donate Welton Barragán is the community outto the Beth-El scholarship fund, please reach manager at Beth-El and heads the contact MaryEllen Welton Barragán at program. outreach@beth-el.org. “The mentor is a key part of this proBeth-El Farmworker Ministry is a gram,” said Welton Barragán. “It’s about nonprofit organization located at 18240 relationship and accountability. The menU.S. Hwy. 301 in Wimauma, visit tor’s responsibilities include meeting with http://beth-el.org.
Expiration: 2.29.2020
The 18th annual Greater Brandon Charity Golf Classic will be held on Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28, hosted by the Angel Foundation FL. New this year, the Forcon International Casino Night and Pairings Party on March 27 is open to the public and tickets are $50 per person. The event will be held at The Regent in Riverview and tickets include food, drinks and casino-style gaming, as well as the opportunity for players to bid on ‘celebrities’ to play with at the tournament. The Celebrity Pro Am Golf Tournament begins on March 28 at 11 a.m. with a welcome reception and is followed by a shotgun start at 1 p.m. In keeping with tradition, golfers will enjoy competitive challenges, raffles, refreshments at the Bahama Breeze Party Tent and an award ceremony after the tournament. “This is the 18th year the foundation has hosted the Charity Golf Classic, and I'm excited that we are growing every year,” said Liz Brewer, the executive director. “We are thankful to our title sponsors like Forcon International and The Bank of Tampa, who return every year to support this event, as well as new sponsors who have joined us in 2020. Together, we can raise the funds
Expiration: 2.29.2020
By Bethany Mattacchione
needed to help even more families in 2020.” Proceeds from the event will benefit the Angel Foundation’s Angel Program, which helps families in the Greater Brandon community affected by a life-threatening illness or catastrophic event. When a family faces a terminal diagnosis or catastrophic event, their primary focus is caring for their loved ones. The practical day-to-day things often taken for granted when all is well are no longer a priority, but they still must be done. The Angel Foundation partners with local businesses and individuals in the community to meet those practical needs. Every family goes through a home assessment led by an ‘Angel Team’ to determine their needs. If a financial need exists, the nonprofit will assist them on a temporary basis until they can get back on their feet. Since 2006, the foundation has helped more than 850 families in a variety of ways. For more information about the foundation and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.AngelFoundationFl.com or call 689-6889.
Expiration: 2.29.2020
Page 4 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
Sports Connection Foundation Christian Academy Adds Softball And Baseball Fields
By Nick Nahas
Foundation Christian Academy fun after school or on a Friday will be able to host softball and night. baseball games for the first time “It’s great to have the support of this upcoming season thanks to our board, our community and the new fields opening soon. The fields support of our families,” she said. “It will be completed by the time the really is a family atmosphere that softball and baseball seasons start we have here.” in February. Cawley is really proud of her The Panthers have had both athletic program and what it has softball and baseball programs for become over the last nine years four years now, but they have only since it began. She thinks having been able to play road games, until the new fields will help grow the now. Four years ago, they opened softball and baseball programs and up a gym with classrooms attached the athletic program as a whole. Photos courtesy of Foundation Christian Academy to it as well. “We have the best parents Foundation Christian Academy will be able to host softball and baseball games for the first time around that volunteer and are so “The kids are elated, they are this upcoming season. so excited,” said supportive of our proPamela Cawley, athgram. I also believe we letic director for have the best coaches Foundation Christian here at our program,” Academy. “It really said Cawley. “Their gives them a point of teams are Christ-cenpride that they can tered and focus first on host, and opposing the Christian character teams can come and of each athlete. They see our facilities.” are fantastic role modAccording to els for our young athCawley, a few years letes, teaching them ago the board of discipline, sportsmanThe baseball field will open on Thursday, February 20 for its Volunteers helped put the fields together. trustees and school ship and a love for first-ever game. donors started putting support of the board of trustees, and Christ. It is wonderful seeing our athmoney aside and started raising funds ‘Panther Classic’ Golf Tournament as she is happy to have a place where letic programs grow and being supa fundraiser. for the fields. They hosted the her students can be safe and have portive of each other.” Cawley is grateful to have the
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Page 5 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
Valrico Teen To Host Music Matters Concert At The Chapel At FishHawk
Grace Notes Change of Plans
By Debora Coty I stepped to the podium to speak at a Kentucky Women’s Conference one brisk October morning at the exact time the Celebration of Life for my close friend, Cindy, was scheduled back home in Florida. Cindy was truly dear to my heart in every way. A sudden and shocking diagnosis of stage IV pancreatic cancer had called her to heaven much sooner than I was willing to let her go. I hated—and I really do mean hated—missing the celebration of Cindy’s life, but it could not be helped. This conference had been scheduled for nearly a year. And when one is the keynote speaker, one cannot simply not show up. I had a speech all planned for the conference that morning, but as is often the case with our well-made plans, Papa God had other ideas. “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps,” (Proverbs 16:9, NLT). As I stood at the podium, I felt those holy elbow jabs to the gut I often receive when the Holy Spirit is trying to tell me something (whispering doesn’t always work with me; sometimes He has to yell or lock me in a halfNelson to get my attention). I first ignored it and kept blabbering my prepared speech. But I finally stopped and listened to the directive Papa God was giving me: Honor Cindy. Right here. Right now. These ladies don’t know her but they’ll understand. Each of them has someone they need to grieve alongside you. So I shared the story of my Florida girlfriend with 200 Kentucky women
who’d never met her. And the gospel of the saving grace of Jesus Christ flowed. Because that was Cindy’s story. She’d cherished her relationship with her living, loving Savior down to her last breath here on Earth. And she knew beyond a shadow of a doubt where she would be spending a glorious eternity. There were lots of tears that day. Empathetic tears for me and for a sister in Christ they’d never met. And tears for departed loved ones in their own lives. I prayed that my impromptu message from Philippians 4—finding hope in the midst of despair—would be received by my audience of one. (Before I speak at an event, I always pray that the Lord would lead me to say precisely what one person there needs to hear from Him). Sure enough, a tearful young woman approached me afterward; Papa God had used Cindy’s story to remind her of the joy existing beyond the grief of losing her mother. She felt the need to give the sorrow she’d been stuck in for far too long to the Lord and begin to move forward. What a blessing that change of plans turned out to be. How about you, my friend—are you flexible enough to alter your plans at the prompting of the Holy Spirit?
By Amanda Boston
investment, and so the funds from this concert will be used for future recordings, music videos, etc.” Also joining Laneé is Idiomz Da Prophesayer, also known as Damon ‘Idiomz’ Curtis. Idiomz, a Christian hiphop artist, met Laneé while serving as a youth leader. He assisted her with recording and releasing Blurry and also Karinna Laneé is a young artist who wants to inspire connected her with his videoglisteners through her music. rapher to shoot the video. After cutting her teeth with her first Recently, Idiomz relocated to single, Blurry, in 2017, Karinna Laneé is Tennessee to become part of the staff for chomping at the bit to release another. The Extreme Tour, an international movePromoted by M&E Talent Consulting, ment that combines music and extreme Laneé is hosting a concert titled Music sports to further the gospel. Matters to showcase her new music, Idiomz said, “I am coming back to raise funds and promote the message support Karinna because I believe she that music matters. has a special gifting. If I can help her in “Music can be a really powerful any way, I will be there.” thing, and I think it’s really important that Other local artists will perform, and people can listen to a song and feel a litPure Power Productions will handle the tle bit better about themselves,” said sound and lights. The event will feature a Laneé. “I want to help people struggling 50/50 raffle and chances to win gift baswith mental illness and show them that kets donated from local businesses. it’s okay to struggle and that they’re not “I'm thankful for the amount of supalone." port I’ve received from my family, friends The concert will take place on and community. It means the world to Saturday, February 22 from 6-9 p.m. at me,” said Laneé. “I also thank God for The Chapel at FishHawk. Laneé will the opportunities that He has presented debut original music as well as perform me that…allowed me to share my talent.” some covers. Tickets will be available at The event’s venue is located at 6026 the door with a minimum donation of $5. Churchside Dr. in Lithia. For information, Children under 8 are free. contact metalentconsulting@gmail.com. Laneé continued, “There’s so much You can connect with Laneé on that goes into making a song. You have Instagram @karinnalanee. To learn more to write and compose the music, then about Idiomz, visit www.idp-music.com. record, then mix and so on. It’s a big
Debora M. Coty is an inspirational speaker and award-winning author of over 40 books, including the bestselling Too Blessed to be Stressed series. Visit with Debora anytime at www.DeboraCoty.com.
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Page 6 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
Valrico Resident Pens Faith-Based Children’s Book, The Red, Red Wild
By Amanda Boston
Ashley Abene jugknown animals gles the roles of a milisuch as red tary spouse, mother, pandas, red adjunct English profeskangaroos and sor and blogger, to red deer. name a few. And now, Abene conthis Valrico resident tinued, “I want and mother of two can children and add ‘children’s book their parents to author’ to the list. walk away from Originally from reading this Bradenton, Abene book thinking ‘I relocated to the Tampa am special, and area in 2012 when her God has called husband, Sean, me to do great received military things.’” orders to MacDill Air While her Ashley Abene recently published her first vision and writForce Base. With her children’s book, titled The Red, Red Wild, husband frequently ing were uninin December 2019. traveling or deploying, hibited, Abene Abene desired to connect struggled to secure a with others in the throes of publisher and illustrator. motherhood. Shortly after After four years, she having her firstborn, she decided to ‘take a page’ started a parenting blog, from Eric Carle’s classic and since then has also children’s book, The published parenting articles Very Hungry Caterpillar. in the Tampa Bay Parenting Using watercolor and Magazine. enlisting her 5-year-old Also an avid reader, daughter’s help, the pair Abene began reading to began creating the her children when they book’s cover and illustrawere infants. After observtions. From start to fining her baby’s fascination with the ish, her labor of love took four years, color red, the idea for her faith-based but the family involvement was pricebook, The Red, Red Wild, materialless and well worth the wait. ized. With some graphic design courses “I couldn’t find many books about and experience behind her, Abene has red animals,” said Abene. “Since I plans to expand her book into a series couldn’t find one, I decided to write it. called The Wild Creation Series. Her This book isn’t just for babies, though, next book in this series will be titled it can be read to any child, and it is The Blue, Blue Ocean. educational too.” The Red, Red Wild is recommendIn sing-song fashion, The Red, ed for ages 1 month to 8 years and is Red Wild acknowledges that God is available for purchase on Amazon. the creator of all the beautiful red aniMore information on the author and mals and encourages children to go her book can be found on her blog at outside and explore His creation. It https://picturesquefamiliarity.wordalso educates as it depicts lesserpress.com.
GRAMMY® Award Winner Zach Williams To Perform In The Tampa Area Best known for his 2017 GRAMMY® award-winning album, Chain Breaker, Christian rocker Zach Williams is bringing the Rescue Story Tour to the Tampa area. Fans will have two opportunities to hear him perform live with shows on Thursday, March 5 at Countryside Christian Church in Clearwater and Friday, March 6 at Victory Church in Lakeland. The tour is titled after his sophomore album, Rescue Story, which was released in 2019. Through songwriting, Williams shares his redemptive journey, declaring Jesus as the hero. His unrivaled sound infuses the soulful rhythms of Southern rock and the art of storytelling from country music. Williams said, “When I gave my life to the Lord, I realized He never left me, even in the dark times. For this new album, the title fits because every song in it has a rescue story. When you’re at your end of the rope, that’s when your rescue story begins. In my case, Jesus has been my rescue story.” Both of the shows begin at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $28 per person each show for general admission and seating is first-come, first-serve. Limited early entry is also
By Amanda Boston
available for $45 per person, which allows guests the option to enter at 6 p.m. before the rest of the general admission. More options are available to include group ticketing and a VIP ‘Meet n’ Greet’ package that includes dinner. Also joining Williams on tour is We The Kingdom. The group includes members of the Cash family. Ed Cash is a well-known music producer and songwriter who has collaborated with household names like Chris Tomlin, Crowder and NEEDTOBREATHE. In the fall of 2019, the group debuted their EP Live At The Wheelhouse. The tour will also introduce the band Cain. Williams said, “I want to personally invite you to the Rescue Story Tour with me and my good friends We The Kingdom and Cain. I always love getting to play in the Sunshine State, and this spring will be no different. This tour will be filled with stories, food and, most importantly, an opportunity to worship together through God’s great gift of music. I can’t wait to meet you at our VIP Meat n’ Greet dinner and hear you singing along with me at the concert.” For more information about the concert or to purchase tickets, please visit https://florida.thejoyfm.com and search for events. To learn more about Zach Williams, visit www.zachwilliamsmusic.com.
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Page 7 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
A Kitten Place, Rescue & Foster Program, Where No Cat Is Left Behind
W W W
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O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R WE’VE MOVED TO VALRICO!
By Sean Crumpacker
Michelle Bass and Alicia Pollock, co-founders of A Kitten Place, were involved in the feline rescue business even before deciding to start their own 501(c)(3). Bass cited one particular foster scenario as the origin story of Bass and Pollock’s rescue. “I was taking care of a very critical care kitten with another rescue,” Bass said. “At some point, you take them to the vet, and the rescue incurs expenses. And you know, rescues have to be cognizant of what they’re spending because they have a lot of other kittens in their care. But with this particular kitten, I knew there was something else that needed to be diagnosed. The president of that organization texted me and said, 'No more vet visits.' And that’s pretty much the straw that broke the camel’s back. I messaged Alicia and I said, 'If we’re going to do this, then we’re going to do it right.'” Thus, A Kitten Place was born. Bass stated that the rescue looks for every opportunity to save even the most vulnerable and demanding of kittens. “If we ever have a kitten in our care, we’re gonna stay committed to them until the very end,” said Bass. Now, A Kitten Place works alongside shelters and other rescues to prevent any kittens from being put down. The rescue’s focus is neonatal kittens, which are normally euthanized by shelters due to the large amount of time and money which
must be spent on their care. “They require pretty much aroundthe-clock care,” Bass said. “It’s almost like having a newborn baby.” Luckily, A Kitten Place has been largely successful in its efforts to save the kittens which are normally left behind. By preventing healthy kittens from being unreasonably put down, rehabilitating kittens with potentially debilitating injuries and rescuing kittens whose conditions were so poor that they would have died in the street, A Kitten Place has lived up to its promise to stay committed to its rescues no matter what. In one particular case, the rescue has even managed to combat an otherwise fatal feline disease. Bass urges for those who can to step up and participate in local Trap-NeuterVet-Return (TNVR) programs and, more importantly, spay and neuter their pets. “If we can make a dent in the cat overpopulation, it’s going to prevent a lot of suffering,” Bass said. Rescues like A Kitten Place can always use extra help in the way of foster and transportation volunteers alongside donations. As the nonprofit shelter operates solely on the public's donations, every bit of help is greatly appreciated and goes towards a good cause. For volunteering, donation and adoption information, visit the rescue's website at akittenplace.org. Additionally, visit the A Kitten Place Facebook page for updates on all the rescues.
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Page 8 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
Nothing Bundt Cakes In Dessert Wars Event Coming To Armature Works For the first time, Dessert Wars is coming to Tampa. This sweet event will be held on Sunday, February 9 from 3 to 7 Dessert Wars is coming p.m. at to Tampa. Get you tickets Armature now for the largest and Works, greatest sweet tasting event in the area. located at 1910 N. Ola Ave. in Tampa. This is a ticketed event, which sells out fast. Dessert Wars is a celebration of the ‘foodie’ lifestyle, featuring dessert vendors vying for the title of Dessert Champion. The event features a wide array of desserts ranging from cupcakes, cookies, ice cream and doughnuts. Dessert Wars is dubbed the Largest Dessert Festival in America. This event is perfect for the whole family. There are several layers of tickets available. This includes Sprinkle on Top, which gets you 50 sample tickets, a ‘gobox’ and an exclusive Dessert Wars Tshirt with entry beginning at 3 p.m. These cost $75 plus fees. VIP tickets include 50 sample tickets, a ‘go-box’ and entry beginning at 3 p.m. These cost $60 plus fees. General admission tickets include 30 sample tickets, a ‘go-box’ and entry beginning at 4 p.m. These cost $35 plus fees.
By Kathy L. Collins
Sample tickets are exchanged for dessert samples. There is no extra cost for dessert. Voting for People's Choice Champion ends at 6 p.m. and the Trophy Ceremonies begin at 6:30 p.m. Dessert Wars debuted in 2016. Each year, they host over 50 vendors and have traditionally sold out to a crowd of 3,000. You will be astounded as you walk through rows and rows of vendors with multiple selections of ice cream, donuts, cupcakes and more. Brad Matthews, director of Dessert Wars, said, “There is no other place that you can try out over 50 different dessert spots under one roof. It gives you the opportunity to discover unique desserts you might have never had in your life.” For vendors, Matthews added, “It gives all of these wonderful dessert places a chance to showcase their product in front of their direct audience—dessert lovers.” Confirmed vendors include Astro Ice Cream, Craving Donuts, Jeremiah’s Ice, Mike’s Pies, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Sprinkles and The Hyppo. For more information on Dessert Wars and to get tickets, please visit www.dessert-wars.com.
The Mighty Miracles Of Jesus Bringing Lazarus Back To Life
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. In John chapter 11, we learn about Lazarus, one of Jesus Christ’s closest friends. Lazarus’ name is Hebrew in origin and interestingly means ‘God is my help.’ When Lazarus fell ill, his sisters sent a message to Jesus, "Lord, the one you love is sick." When Jesus heard the news, he waited two days before going to see Lazarus. By the time Jesus traveled to Lazarus’ home, he had already died and was buried in the tomb. Martha ran up to Jesus and greeted him. "Lord," she said, "if you had been here, my brother would not have died." Then Jesus said these crucial words, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die." Jesus had not yet entered the village, most likely to avoid attention because he was not far from Jerusalem, where the Jewish leaders were plotting
against Him. Jesus stood at the tomb where both Mary and Martha were weeping and grieving their brother’s death. Jesus was so moved by their sorrow that he wept with them. Jesus asked Mary and Martha to move the stone from the tomb. Jesus looked up to heaven and prayed to His Father and then loudly commanded Lazarus to rise and exit the tomb, where he had been buried for four days. When Lazarus came out, he was fully restored, and Jesus told the people to remove his grave clothes. As a result of this incredible miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead, many people believed that Jesus was the Son of God. Jesus demonstrated that He had power over death. It is essential in our Christian faith that we believe in the resurrection of the dead. After this miracle, the chief priests and Pharisees plotted to kill Jesus, because so many witnesses were now believers and followers of Jesus. What can we learn from this miracle? Jesus has compassion for us. Even though he knew that Lazarus would be resurrected, Jesus still wept with the ones he loved. Jesus cares about our sorrow. He rejoices with us in our triumphs, and He weeps with us in our difficult times. We should not be ashamed to express our feelings to God. Just like Mary and Martha, we may be waiting on God to help us during a difficult situation and wonder why he doesn't respond more quickly. We cannot question God’s timing or His purpose. We must trust in His plans for us. Ultimately, the resurrection of Lazarus teaches us that Jesus Christ has power over death, and those who believe in him will receive everlasting life.
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Page 9 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
Pastor’s Corner Jomo Cousins, PhD Boldness In Prayer
2 Kings 20:1-5 1 In those days Hezekiah became deathly ill. The prophet Isaiah came and said to him, “Thus says the Lord, ‘Set your house in order, for you shall die and not recover.’” 2 Then Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the Lord, saying, 3 “Please, O Lord, remember now how I have walked before You in faithfulness and truth and with a whole heart [entirely devoted to You], and have done what is good in Your sight.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly. 4 Before Isaiah had gone out of the middle courtyard, the word of the Lord came to him, saying, 5 Go back and tell Hezekiah the leader of My people, “Thus says the Lord, the God of David your father (ancestor): I have heard your prayer, I have seen your tears. Behold, I am healing you;…” God sent Isaiah to deliver a message to Hezekiah, letting him know his time was coming to an end. Hezekiah responded to that message by asking God to give him more time. This request showed incredible boldness and faith. It also shows us that we don’t have to receive every word that someone has for us. Who could ever
By Pastor Jomo Cousins, PhD
imagine asking God to change His mind? But, God did it! This prayer gives us a glimpse of the endless possibilities that is attained through prayer. God healed Hezekiah and gave him more time. Hezekiah’s prayers did not take years to manifest; this was a few moments in time. Our accessibility to God is the same. Hezekiah’s request aligns with Genesis 18:14 states, “Is there anything too hard for God?” The answer is: No! There is nothing too hard for God. Hezekiah’s answered prayer was so amazing that I think we should breakdown some of the ingredients. •Hezekiah turned to God. •Hezekiah had a place of prayer. •Hezekiah prayed. •Hezekiah was specific. •Hezekiah was faithful and true. •Hezekiah was devoted to God. •Hezekiah did what was right in God’s sight. Except from: Prayer Life: The Conversation, page 79. Dr. Jomo Cousins is the senior pastor of Love First Christian Center in Riverview.
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Page 10 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
Visit The Florida State Fair For Food, Fun And New Deep Fried Dash 5K Run
Assisted Living
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Since 1904, FFA students commit the Florida State hundreds of hours to Fair has been a their agriculture projstaple in Tampa ects.” Bay and is returnAmong the long ing to the Tampa list of things to see Fairgrounds from and do includes Thursday, February Cracker Country 6 to Monday, where visitors step February 17 for 12 back in time to 19th fun-filled days. The Florida State Fair is century Florida at coming to the fairgrounds Tampa’s only living Who doesn’t love for 12 days beginning some deep-fried history museum, Thursday, February 6 and Oreos, exciting open all 12 days of ending on Monday, February 17. rides to the the fair. There are Midway, carnival games and live enteralso a variety of fun competitions for the tainment? There is something for everybest quilt, pie or plant. Onlookers can one of all ages at this year’s fair. enjoy a good old-fashioned demolition Known for amazing food and thrilling derby as they cheer on their favorite rides, there are also a few new events destructive drivers as they shake, rattle this year. If you love to run, the first annu- and roll through a series of obstacles to al Deep Fried Dash is a race through the be the last car standing. And of course no fair on Saturday, February 15. For a visit to the fair is complete without a few chance to be the first ever Deep Fried rides on The Wipeout, Street Fighter and Dash 5K and Fun Run champion, register Midway Sky Eye ferris wheel. now for a fair-tastic deal. Opening day Thursday, February 6, Also new is the Showcase is also Hero’s Day, where first responCommunity Stage where you can see the ders, including law enforcement, EMT, best of the best local talent in this comcorrections officers and active or retired munity-driven show. military, along with guests, get free admisFrequent fair-goer and Ruskin resision to the fair. dent Amber Council is always excited The one-day admission price for about the Florida State fair. Her daughter, adults is $9 and for children ages 6-11 is Becky, is involved with Future Farmers of $5. Children under 5 are free. Other America (FFA) in school and is showing prices may vary and there is always speat the fair this year. cial pricing on armbands for the Midway “We always enjoy the rides and the rides. For a complete list of pricing and food,” said Council. “But, it’s also provides more information on the events, concerts, great agricultural opportunities. We will be live shows and other offerings, visit at the fair again this year because the www.floridastatefair.com.
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Page 11 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
Flowers, Chocolates And Genuine Love
By Kelly Wise Valdes
The month of February is often referred to as the month of love. With Valentine’s Day, flowers and chocolates, couples usually take this time to demonstrate their affection to one another. Did you know that the word ‘love’ is mentioned in the New American Standard version of the Bible 348 times? In the New Testament, Jesus was recorded mentioning ‘love’ 51 times. This is because love is essential to all human life. Genuine love is sacrificial. John 3:16 tells us of the ultimate love and sacrifice, “For God so loved the world, as to give his only begotten Son…” If you sometimes find yourself in a less than perfect marriage and the ‘happily ever after’ that was promised to you in childhood fairy tales seems like an unfulfilled promise, some of these books will offer you hope. Faithfulness within love is God’s desire for you.
52 Uncommon Dates: A Couple’s Adventure Guide for Praying, Playing, and Staying Together By Randy Southern
Have you ever tried a photography date? A water date? What about a second first date? Learn how to speak each other’s love language, incorporate prayer in ways that are relevant to real life and finish strong with questions that help keep conversations alive. Ignite prayerful and playful connections that deepen the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of your relationship, one date at a time.
Fierce Marriage: Radically Pursuing Each Other in Light of Christ's Relentless Love By Ryan Frederick, Selena Frederick
Fierce Marriage is a call to put Christ at the center of your marriage, measuring everything you do and say to each other against what Christ did for you. With passionate personal stories and practical, gospel-centered advice, this book addresses five key areas of marriage: priorities, communication, money, sex and conflict.
Sacred Marriage By Gary Thomas
Sacred Marriage doesn’t just offer techniques to make a marriage happier. While it does contain practical tools, what married Christians most need is help in becoming holier husbands and wives. Sacred Marriage offers that support with insights from Scripture, church history, time-tested wisdom and examples from today’s marriages.
Love to Stay: Sex, Grace, and Commitment By Adam Hamilton
Explore what it takes to create and sustain healthy, meaningful romantic relationships across the course of a lifetime. This book draws from the latest research, personal experiences of thousands of couples, advice from marriage therapists and biblical wisdom to help couples learn the lifelong dance of marriage. Some of the topics addressed are commitment, forgiveness, habits, intimacy and male-female differences.
FLOORING, WINDOW TREATMENTS, WALLPAPER, KITCHEN & BATH REMODEL
Page 12 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
New Book Invites Women Entrepreneurs To Dream Bigger With Vision Boards, Grace
Staff Report
Shannon Carlton each section to get them invites women entreprecloser to their vision each neurs to dream digger in and every day. her first book, Manifest Carlton, who was an Your Vision with Grace, advertising sales repreGratitude and Growth, a sentative for the Osprey guide to getting unstuck Observer prior to opening and creating the life you her business, CoWork desire using vision boards, Landing in Brandon, said available now on Amazon. that, “Once you create So many times your vision board and women entrepreneurs begin the process of allow ‘surviving’ to get in working toward your the way of their dreams. vision, not only will you They can use this book as be more motivated to a tool to help transform make significant changes their lives into ones that in your routines, you will Shannon Carlton’s new book, are inspired and impactful. absolutely change your Manifest Your Vision with It is entirely possible to Grace, Gratitude and Growth, life and the lives of your create a vision boards and women entrepreneurs’ guide family because of your to getting unstuck and never find what you are creating the lives they desire vision.” using vision boards, is now looking for in the real Carlton is a first-time available on Amazon. world. A study in author, vision board trainPsychology Today actually suggested that er, accountability coach and coworking vision boards can be harmful because space owner. Along with owning her simply staring at your vision board won’t coworking space, she has helped get you very far. You have to put your women envision their lives for the past plans into action. four years with vision boards and That is where Carlton’s new book accountability training. Her goal with this comes in. Her book is designed to help book is to encourage women small the reader create the life she wants to business owners everywhere to dream live by constructing a vision board and big and keep their vision in the forefront then digging deep into setting goals and of their life. creating habits that will take her closer Order the book on Amazon in to her vision. paperback and Kindle. You can also This practical guide helps women work with Carlton one-on-one or set up identify their vision in four quadrants of a vision board workshop with your life (health and wellness, life’s work, group or company. Contact Carlton at relationships and time and money freeshannon@coworklandingbrandon.com dom) and gives them practical steps in or 924-4679.
Page 13 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
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cher? What is a goal of yours as a tea to ts den I like sparking the interest in stu Education help them realize their passions. wledge of a isn’t just about teaching the kno nections with subject but rather making con nothing students individually. There is ‘light bulb’ more satisfying than seeing the at teachturn on within the student. Th able moment is so powerful! dents What is a hidden talent that stu don’t know about you? friends It isn’t really a secret with my houses. ng nti pai e lov I and family, but see- Ms. Kathie I love the detail of trim work and Smith ha s nted for 27 ye been a teacher ing the finished product. I pai ars . r of my the entire exterior and interio paint. I find it relaxhouse and have helped others ing!! why? What is your favorite book and medicine. I’ve always been interested in rs. ille thr al dic I love to read me ks are tops on my list. Any of Patricia Cornwell’s boo saying? What is your favorite quote or at r work and work your plan.” Gre you an “Pl to me My dad taught advice to live by!! nged in the school system? What would you like to see cha singly ing schedule has become increa I must say that the academic pac for teachers. demanding for the students and
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Page 14 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
Your Monthly Catch Local Happenings In Our Community Brandon Christian Women’s Connection To Hold ‘Be My Valentine’ Luncheon
The Brandon Christian Women's Connection will hold its monthly luncheon which invites you to ‘Be my Valentine’ on Tuesday, February 11 at Buckhorn Springs Country Club, located on 2721 S. Miller Rd. in Valrico, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. with music, entertainment and an inspirational speaker. This is a nondenominational luncheon with no membership required, but a reservation is requested. The cost is $15. First-time guests pay $10. Please call Lillie at 740-0098 for a reservation and information.
The Burchfield Brothers To Perform In Brandon
Brandon First Church of the Nazarene invites the community to see the Burchfield Brothers live on Wednesday, February 12 at 7 p.m. The concert is free with no tickets or reservations are required. Brothers Jon and Ben Burchfield are Dove Award-nominated music artists whose diverse music style cannot be attributed to one single genre. The instrumental arrangements incorporate the styles of Appalachian, Renaissance, praise, worship, gospel, jazz and classical. The concerts are a combination of music and storytelling. The event will also include a dinner served at 6 p.m. To RSVP for dinner (appreciated but not required),
visit www.facebook.com/Brandon1stCh urchoftheNazarene. More information on the group can be found at www.burchfieldbrothers.com. The venue is located at 114 Kingsway Ave. in Brandon.
Interfaith Day 2020
St. Stephen Catholic School Principal, Linda Umoh, will host the fourth annual Interfaith Day on Thursday, February 6. Today more than ever, Umoh sees a need to eradicate fear and ignorance among Americans and she believes that Interfaith Day is a strong step in that
direction. The St. Stephen Catholic School mission states that we will help our young people, ‘continue Jesus’ mission.’ More than 400 students have been ushered through through a multifaith experience over the last three years. The Taoist Tai Chi Society from Brandon will begin the day with a historical overview of Tai Chi and lead a sample class of movements for all students. Following Tai Chi, students from each school will educate their peers about their respective faiths. After all the faith presentations, Jana Broder of Drum Magic will lead a drum circle to inspire unity among the students. Students will enjoy lunch together. After lunch, the Interfaith panel of religious leaders will answer questions from the students. Elizabeth Bunbury from the Answered Prayers Project will present to students on unity and loving one another. Muslim guests will have time and space dedicated for their Prayer Service and all students will depart with a commemorative pen
HAPPY HOUR MON - SAT 3 TO 6
with our Interfaith Day logo. For more information, visit https://www.sscsfl.org/.
Choices Annual Golf Tournament With Helicopter Drop
Choices, formerly known as the LifeCare Network, will hold its annual golf tournament fundraiser on Friday, March 6 at the newly renovated River Hills Country Club in Valrico. Check-in begins at 11 a.m. and is followed by lunch and a helicopter golf ball drop. The shotgun start is at 12:45 p.m. The registration fee is $150 per person and includes golfing, lunch, dinner, a shirt, a goodie bag and contests along the golf course. The nonprofit exists to lead those they serve to know Christ, protect the sanctity of human life and promote biblical-based sexuality according to God’s plan for marriage. For more information, visit https://empoweredtochoose.net. To register or become a sponsor for the golf fundraiser, please contact Jessica Rickenbach at jessica@choicesclinics.org or 654-0491. The River Hills Country Club is located at 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico.
Love First Christian Center Offers Life University Classes
Love First Christian Center is located at 12847 Balm Riverview Rd. in Riverview and will be offering the following Life University classes. For more information, visit www.lfcc.tv. Financial Stewardship - January 27 - April 13 (12 weeks) Financial Stewardship is a class on money and finance management taught from an extensive biblical perspective. You’ll walk through the basics of budgeting, eliminating debt, planning, creating a plan for a solid financial future and much more. You will discover the role your finances are to have in your life and spiritual wellbeing. DivorceCare -February 4 - April 28 (13 weeks) DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s very difficult experiences. Most people will tell you that separation and divorce are
the most painful and stressful experiences they’ve ever faced. It’s a confusing time when you feel isolated and have lots of questions about issues you’ve never faced alone. DivorceCare 4 Kids (DC4K) – February 4 - April 28 (13 weeks) DC4K provides your children with a safe and neutral place to gain an age-appropriate understanding of separation and divorce. They will learn how to process and share their feelings. DC4K is designed for kids 5–12 years of age.
The Art of Marriage - March 3 April 7 (6 weeks)
This course is designed to help build marriage the way God intended it to be. That’s why for more than 35 years, FamilyLife has been helping couples understand God’s plan for relationships. The Art of Marriage weaves together expert teaching, reallife stories, humorous vignettes, and more to portray both the challenges and the beauty of God’s design for marriage.
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Page 15 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
BAPTIST Bay Life Church 1017 Kingsway Ave., Brandon (813) 661-3696 Bell Shoals Baptist - Brandon 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 Congregación Hispana 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 ext. 242 Bell Shoals Baptist - Apollo Beach 408 Apollo Beach Blvd., Apollo Beach (813) 641-2222 Bell Shoals Baptist - Palm River 5415 Palm River Rd.,Tampa (813) 621-2058 Bell Shoals Baptist - Riverview 9990 South Hwy 301, Suite 10024, Riverview (813) 689-4229 First Baptist Church of Brandon 216 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon (813) 689-1204 First Baptist Church of Bloomingdale 3303 Bloomingdale Ave.,Valrico (813) 689-3847 First Baptist Church of Gibsonton 9912 Indiana St., Gibsonton (813) 677-1301 First Baptist Church of Ruskin 820 College Ave. W., Ruskin (813) 645-6439 FishHawk Fellowship 15326 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia, (813) 655-7431 Grace Baptist Church 2909 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-7190 Journey Church 415 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon (813) 699-8262 Shiloh Baptist Church 1104 Cason St., Plant City (813) 752-8345 CATHOLIC Nativity Catholic Church 705 E Brandon Blvd., Brandon (813) 681-4608 St. Anne Catholic Church 106 11th Ave. NE, Ruskin (813) 645-1714
St. Matthews Anglican Church 10701 Bloomingdale Avenue, Riverview 813-663-0334 St. Stephen Catholic Church 10118 Saint Stephen Circle, Riverview (813) 689-4900 CHURCH OF GOD Boyette Springs Church of God 12114 Boyette Rd., Riverview (813) 671-0086 Plant City Church of God 2103 Mud Lake Rd., Plant City (813) 752-4591 EPISCOPAL Holy Innocents' Episcopal Church 604 N. Valrico Rd., Valrico (813) 689-3130 LUTHERAN Immanuel Lutheran Church 2913 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-1787 Living Savior Lutheran Church 2650 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico (813) 681-2375 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Seffner 1310 South Kingsway Rd., Seffner (813) 689-3513 Grace Community United Methodist Church 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Lithia (813) 661-8858 • info@mygraceumc.com New Hope United Methodist Church 120 N. Knights Ave., Brandon (813) 689-4161 Riverview First United Methodist Church 8002 US Hwy 301., Riverview www.riverviewflumc.org Ruskin United Methodist Church 105 4th Ave. NW, Ruskin (813) 645-1241 South Shore United Methodist Church 11525 Big Bend Rd., Riverview (813) 649-9462 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Calvary Chapel Brandon 1331 Kingsway Rd., Brandon (813) 681-5318 Centerpoint Church 1801 S. Miller Rd., Valrico (813) 689-1906
Grace Community Church 1425 N Valrico Rd., Valrico (813) 689-9781 Harvest Bible Chapel Bloomingdale High School 813-699-0517 Love First Christian Center 12847 Balm Riverview Rd., Riverview 813-671-2009 River of Life Christian Center 6605 Krycul Ave, Riverview 813-677-4453 New Life Christian Church 401 S. Saint Cloud Ave, Valrico 813-548-2733 South Bay Church 13498 US 301 S., Riverview 813-677-0721 The Chapel at FishHawk 6026 Churchside Dr., Lithia 813-661-7105 The Crossing Church - Main Campus 10130 Tuscany Ridge Dr., Tampa, (813) 626-0783 The Crossing Church - SouthShore 2409 East College Ave., Ruskin (813) 626-0580 The Palms Church 207 New Hope Rd., Brandon (813) 841-9598 True Sanctuary 6528 US Hwy 301 S., Suite 114, Riverview (813) 319-5862 PENTECOSTAL Destiny Church 2322 11th Ave. SE, Ruskin (813) 645-3337 HighPoint Church of Brandon 2207 Lithia-Pinecrest Rd., Valrico/Brandon (813) 685-4827 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Brandon -PCUSA 121 Carver Ave., Brandon (813) 689-4597 Redeemer Church-PCA 12404 Boyette Rd., Riverview (813) 741-1776 Westminster Presbyterian Church PCA 402 E. Lumsden Rd., Brandon (813) 689-6541
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Page 16 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
Honor Their Sacrifice, Educate Their Legacy, Is The Motto Of Folds Of Honor
By Gwen Rollings
women who have died or been disabled while on active duty. These scholarships have been awarded to family members in all 50 states and some U.S. territories. There are more than one million disabled and fallen United States service members affected by war, nearly two million dependents of those disabled and fallen and the cost is more than nine billion to provide educational scholarships to all these dependents, according to Sunset Grill in Ruskin held a charity event for Folds of Honor in November. There was a golf Folds of Honor. scramble, live music, raffles, silent auction and A local business joined the veteran services and support booths. cause to raise funds for these miliLieutenant Colonel Dan Rooney, an tary dependents. Sunset Grill in Ruskin F-16 Fighter Pilot in the Air Force held a charity event for Folds of Honor in Reserves, was returning November. There was a home in 2007 from his secgolf scramble, live music, ond tour of duty in Iraq raffles, silent auction and when his mission in life veteran services and supchanged. After the flight port booths. Scott landed, Rooney watched as Campbell, general managa flag-covered casket was er of Sunset Grill, was removed from the plane enthusiastic in his support and directed toward a waitof Folds of Honor. “There were many reaing family. Among the family was the sons we chose to hold the charity event young son of the fallen hero. Rooney here. We wanted to show our support to knew he had to do something to not only the veterans and their families. We owe pay tribute to American service members our veterans respect, and there are a lot and their families but to live as a reminder of veterans in the Ruskin area. We conamong civilians that it is our duty to honor sider ourselves to be ambassadors for the sacrifices of the ones who preserve Folds of Honor and anticipate a West our freedoms. That same year Rooney Florida chapter forming in the future.” founded the Folds of Honor Foundation. Funds raised were to be distributed as Folds of Honor is a 501(c)(3) nonlocal scholarships. profit organization that has provided nearFor more information on donating or ly 24,500 educational scholarships since scholarship application, visit www.fold2007 to families of U.S. servicemen and sofhonor.org.
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Page 17 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
Luncheon Kicks Off 2020 Hillsborough 100 Conservation Challenge
By Linda Chion Kenney
much year-round, with some projects taking on a life of their own.” The 2020 Hillsborough 100 Conservation Challenge showcase period is scheduled for April 18, 2020 through May 3, 2020, encompassing Earth Day, Arbor Day and Soil Stewardship Week. The kickoff luncheon, held on November 14 at The Regent With Mark Proctor, left, and Betty Jo Tompkins, back, are in Riverview, featured 2019 the Hillsborough 100 award recipients, from left to right: challenge awards as well. Karen Crumley, Outstanding Volunteer; Will Moriaty of Award recipients includTREE, Inc., Outstanding Project; Andrea and Daniel McClellan of M&B Products, Outstanding Supporter; and ed: Karen Crumley, Nikki Foster of Mosaic, outstanding cooperating partner. Outstanding Volunteer of the The Hillsborough 100 Conservation Year, for her work with the Plant City Challenge is back for a fourth year with Lions Club and school-based Leo clubs; an open invitation to schools, community M&B Products, a family-owned dairy farm groups and individuals to step up and and processing company, for Outstanding showcase their efforts to conserve natural Supporter of the Year; and TREE, Inc., for resources. Outstanding Project of the Year, which Launched by the Hillsborough Soil involved a watershed reclamation project and Water Conservation District at the Plant City Commons Community (HSWCD) in 2017, the challenge underGarden, on the Plant City campus of scores “the need to make conservation Hillsborough Community College. everybody’s business, with a focus on The Mosaic Company, the luncheon land, water and air projects in rural, subsponsor, received the 2019 Cooperating urban, urban and inner-city communities,” Partner of the Year award, which in 2017 said Betty Jo Tompkins, HSWCD execuwent to Lipman Family Farms. tive director. Projects run the gamut from “We’re real excited about it,” said road and water cleanups to planting and Carol Ann Driskell, an ESE teacher at recycling efforts. Brandon High. “The original idea was to get 100 “The students want to learn more projects, and every year we seem to get about plants and what it takes to grow more,” said Mark Proctor, who chairs the them and eating healthier.” board of five HSWCD supervisors, an For more, call the HSWCD at 752unpaid elected position. “We started with 1474, Ext 3. Call Betty Jo Tompkins at a one-week timeline and now it’s pretty 477-8332 or email bjt6890@yahoo.com.
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Nonprofit Partners With Tide Cleaners To Offer Formal Dresses For Students
By Mia Cafaro
Gowns For Girls is a new organization getting its start in the Bloomingdale area, and it aims to provide prom and homecoming dresses to students who are not able to buy their own. Mulrennan teacher Stephanie Brown and her friend, Alicia Tew, first noticed this need in the community when attending a Bell of the Ball Project event. Bell of the Ball is another nonprofit with a similar goal, but it operates in Clearwater, which is sometimes inaccessible for girls in East Hillsborough. “We realized we could do something really good in our area,” said Brown. Last August, Brown and Tew began requesting donations from the community to build their inventory of formal dresses. A downsizing bridal shop in Brooksville was able to start their collection, and since then donations have poured in from locals. So many dresses have been accumulated that Bloomingdale Self Storage
donated a storage unit to Brown and Tew to use for the project. Tide Cleaners on Bloomingdale is currently a drop-off site for dresses, and it will also clean any donations that need it. All formal dresses are welcome donations, and if Gowns For Girls cannot use a dress, it will be passed along to ECHO, another nonprofit, and be used for fundraising. Additionally, Alteration Specialist Jeanne Fredrichs is generously mending damaged dresses so they can still be used for the project. Tide Cleaners’ and Frederichs’ contributions have made dress a girl is thinking about selling or giving away will also qualify to be donated to Gowns For Girls. The distribution dates for prom dresses are Wednesday, February 1 and 22. Dresses will be available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Centerpoint Church on the corner of Durant Rd. and Miller Rd. In order to receive a dress, girls will have to appear in person with an adult who can attest to their financial difficulties or be referred by school or agency officials. Volunteers will be needed on these dates to help keep things organized and running smoothly. Anyone who is interested in volunteering or has additional questions about Gowns For Girls can contact Brown and Tew at gownsforgirls.info@gmail.com.
Page 18 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
Live Like You Mean It
Our World Is Suffering For Want Of Magi
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Shepherds’ Fields – Church Of The Shepherds
Just a mile to the east of Bethlehem lies the village of Beit Sahour, which is where you will find the Shepherds’ Fields, one of the most sacred places to Christians. Many historians believe this is the location where the Angel of the Lord visited the shepherds to tell them of Jesus’ birth. According to the Bible, the shepherds were tending their sheep at night in a large field in Beit Sahour when an angel appeared before them and said, “Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” In what is believed to be the same sacred ground as this angel encounter now sits a red-domed Greek Orthodox church at a site known as Church of the Shepherds. This site is also believed to be the site where Jacob settled after his wife, Rachel, died, as told in the Old Testament. A new church was built in 1953 near the traditional site of the underground Church of the Shepherds. While excavating the foundations for the new church, ruins of three different churches from the fifth, sixth and seventh centuries were discovered. Archaeologists also found an oil press, grottoes and burial niches within a
vault. In addition, a Byzantine monastery was identified, as well as a bakery, cisterns for storing water and small courtyards. To preserve these ancient remains, it was decided to build the new church adjacent to the cave rather than directly
above. Excavations at the site also uncovered a series caves with remains dating back to a mosaic-floored, fourth century, subterranean church said to have been built by St. Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine. The caves can be accessed by visitors down a flight of 21 steps where ancient mosaics and murals can be viewed. The mosaic floor includes crosses and, therefore, must predate 427, when this was forbidden as it was considered irreverent. The new church architecture is dodecagonal (12 sides) in shape, reminiscent of the nomadic tents of the shepherds. It also is known for its amazing acoustics inside. Often, visitors will be treated to a small group singing hymns. The structure also boasts three holy altars, which are dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the great martyr and healer Saint Panteleimon and archangels Michael and Gabriel. In Latin, the angels’ tidings of great joy appears in large gold lettering around the circumference of the dome. The entrance is free, and the chapel is open daily. For more information, visit www.seetheholyland.net.
By Derek Maul
As someone who spent two decades as a teacher and my entire adult life leading small groups, I have a lot of interest in the learning process. I am convinced more than ever that a lifelong education is the key to real freedom. I also believe it is important to give people the tools with which to discover knowledge. What we need is more searching for wisdom. Christmas may be in the rearview mirror by now, but our world is suffering for want of Magi. We could use another visit from the Wise Men, along with some Wise Women too. Many people have become disenchanted with trite and convenient answers, surface-level thinking and the unwillingness to engage hard questions that is too often associated with Christianity. To them I would say, “Remember the Magi.” Any honest journey toward knowledge will always lead back to Jesus, because while Jesus is very much ‘The Answer,’ he is not an easy answer so much as he is ‘The Way.’ After they found Jesus the Wise travelers “left by another route.” But I can guarantee this, they took the Savior with them. Jesus became their companion on the ongoing journey, both of faith and
wandering the desert. Likewise, rather than being afraid of questions we can’t easily answer, it’s important to wrestle with them regardless. Because life is more far reaching than the limits of our reason, and Jesus tends to ask more questions than
he answers. But we do have a guide for the journey. Some people take a more circuitous route to find the child in the manger than others, but all authentic questions will eventually lead us to follow the star and to find the Savior. No matter where we are today, Jesus will respond positively to our invitation to join the pilgrimage as companion and guide. Our world is suffering for want of Magi, and if we are wise then we will still seek and continue to follow the star, all the way to Easter and the Risen Lord. 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 • February 2020
Brandon Academy Celebrates 50 Years
By Linda Chion Kenney
Brandon Academy in 2018 graduated its first senior class, having launched its high school in 2015 with grade 9. Designated an International Baacalaureate World School in 2017, the academy offers the IB diploma program to juniors and seniors. Opening with grade 1 in 1970, the academy took In front of a cake celebrating Brandon Academy's 50th root on land purchased by anniversary are staff members, from left, Tonya Fulton, director of first impressions; Nicholas Rodriguez, head the Rotary Club of Brandon from the University of of school; and Brian Galzerano, middle school principal. Tampa. Ownership eventuThe Brandon Academy community ally transferred to Clif Curry and his is set to celebrate the private, indewife, Terry, who in 2005 sold the school pendent school’s ‘next best 50 years’ (then through grade 8) to Robert after gathering to mark the school’s Randolph and his wife, Tricia. half-century of achievement. Designated a National Blue At a ribbon-cutting with the Greater Ribbon School in 2010, the academy Brandon Chamber of Commerce, today enrolls about 260 students Jessica Rolewicz said she attended the through grade 12. school as a youngster. “Our goal is to give them their best “I used to play with the acorns in future yet,” Rodriguez said, noting such the playground,” she said. “I remember offerings as Makers Space, the big classrooms and the lovely proInnovations Lab and Design Makers grams they had back then. It’s amazing and Robotics. how far they’ve come and how much “Our goal is to bring in great kids they’ve grown with the community that and families,” he added. When it we love.” comes to financial aid, “We’ll bend over Head of School Nicholas backwards to try to get them in.” Rodriguez oversees 20 and seven fullSondra Cliggit retired in 2018 after and part-time educators, respectively, 35 years at Brandon Academy, where and five staff members. Over the past she last served as head of lower five years, classroom buildings have school. The academy is “magical,” she been retrofitted, the gymnasium has said. “People who come here say it’s been enhanced and an intermediate just different than any other place and classroom building has been construct- it truly is.” Brandon Academy is at 801 ed. Limona Rd. Visit: www.brandon-acadeWith seven of ten acres developed, my.com or call 689-1952.
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Artists Invited To Enter Artwork In Annual Florida Strawberry Festival Fine Art Show
By Kathy L. Collins
A Call To at the Artists has Suncoast been issued Credit Union by the East Plant City Hillsborough branch. Art Guild There are (EHAG) for prizes for first, the 2020 second and Artists, young and old, proFlorida third places in fessional and amateur, are encouraged to enter original all Adult and Youth Divisions. Strawberry artwork into the 2020 Florida Festival Fine Artists who do not win one of the Strawberry Festival Fine Art Art Show above prizes are eligible for a Show. which runs Business Leaders Choice Award. from Thursday, February 27 through These awards are sponsored by local Sunday, March 8 at the Festival businesses and chosen by a repreGrounds in Plant City. The show will sentative of the business. Artists are be held in the Milton E. Hull Building. also able to win the People’s Choice Adults are divided into Award. The winner receives $50. Professional Groups (entry fee is $15) New this year is the Special and Amateur Groups (entry fee is Awards. Area residents can become a $12). Adults can enter Oils, Acrylics, sponsor and select a winning artist Watercolors, Graphic/Mixed Media who will receive a ribbon and $50. The entry fee for Miniature Art (2D Chairperson Karen Crumley said, Media) and Sculpture (3D Art) is $12. “Anyone in the area can be a sponsor The Youth Divisions are by ages. the Special Awards.” Youth can enter Oils, Acrylics, Space is limited and entries are Watercolors, Graphic/Mixed Media accepted on a first come, first serve and Sculpture. The entry fee is $5. basis. Early entries are accepted until Adults can enter up to four Friday, February 11. Artists can mail entries, but no more than two in the their entry form and fee to East same division. Youth can enter up to Hillsborough Art Guild, P.O. Box two entries. 3055, Plant City, FL 33564. Artwork Entries are eligible for substantial must be brought to the Festival monetary awards. This includes $100 Grounds on Friday, February 21 from for the Strawberry Theme Award, 12 noon to 6 p.m. $300 for Best of Show and $500 for Entry forms and rules can be the Exclusive Purchase Award which found at FLstrawberryfestival.com. If is sponsored by Suncoast Credit you have questions, please email Union. In addition to the prize money, Crumley at kscrumley@yahoo.com or the winning artist’s piece is displayed call 924-3829.
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Page 20 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
Hot Off The Christian News Wire Breakthrough Along With Two Other Faith-Centric Films Receive Oscar Nominations
The faith-based film Breakthrough and two other faithcentric films received Oscar nominations on January 13—a rare feat for a genre that rarely achieves mainstream attention. Breakthrough (PG) was nominated for Best Original Song for I’m Standing With You, which was written by Diane Warren and sung by Chrissy Metz, who also starred in the film. The movie is based on the true story of a teenage boy who is presumed dead after he falls through an icy pond and doesn’t breathe for 45 minutes. His heart starts beating again after his mother begins praying. Two other faith-centric movies, Harriet (PG-13) and A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (PG), also received Oscar nominations. Harriet
received two nominations: Best Original and Best Actress. Tom Hanks was nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Fred Rogers in A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood. Although A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood and Harriet aren’t categorized as Christian films on some movie websites, both were marketed to Christian audiences. Breakthrough, on the other hand, was considered a faith-based film by most Hollywood websites. Among the Top 10 grossing Christian movies of all time listed by Entertainment Weekly, only one— 2004’s The Passion of the Christ— received an Oscar nomination. The Oscars will be televised live on Sunday, February 9 at 8 p.m. on ABC network. For more information, visit https://oscar.go.com.
Seattle Seahawks’ Stars Shine A Light On Christ
Throughout the year, several Seattle Seahawks players have shown a higher priority over tackles and scorecards—a love for God and people.
During a contentious game against the Philadelphia Eagles in January, Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz was injured after a helmet-tohelmet hit and taken out of the game. After the Seahawks’ win over Wentz’s team, Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson sought out the opposing team’s coach to hug him and inquire about Wentz. “Real one,” SportsCenter tweeted in response to Wilson’s inquiry. Wilson has always been open about his Christian faith. He chose the number three on his jersey to “honor the Holy Trinity” and visits the Seattle Children’s Hospital every week on his day off. Across the field as a wide receiver, the Seahawks’ Tyler Lockett has used his football platform to share the gospel. “The one thing that keeps you going is to have faith in God and that Jesus came and died for everything. He’s given you the things that you need to live a fulfilled, thankful life,” said Lockett. “I just give God all the glory. I know it’s making the best of all the opportunities given to you.” Although the Seahawks may not have had the final outcome this season, the Christian faith of Wilson and
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Night to Shine, sponsored by the Time Tebow Foundation, is an unforgettable prom night experience, centered on God’s love, for people with special needs ages 14 and older. On Friday, February 7, Night to Shine celebrates its sixth anniversary. In 2019, on one night, 655 churches from around the world came together to host Night to Shine for approximately 100,000 honored guests through the support of 200,000 volunteers. Locally, Night to Shine will be hosted in several churches in the Tampa Bay area, including First Baptist Church in Plant City. The event takes place on Friday, February 7 from 6-9 p.m. Admission to the event is limited to registered guests and their parents or caregivers, registered Buddies and registered volunteers. For more information on Night to Shine at this location, call 7524104. First Baptist Church Plant City is located at 3309 James L. Redman Pkwy. in Plant City. For other locations, visit www.timtebowfoundation.org/ministries.
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Page 21 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
Brandon High’s Class Of 1970 Still Celebrating With Its 50th Year Reunion Dance the night away to the tunes of 60s and 70s music while stepping back into time during Brandon High School’s upcoming 50th Class Reunion at Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa Brandon on Friday, April 24 at 6 p.m. (a cash bar and light appetizers) and Saturday, April 25 at 6 p.m. (cash bar, buffet dinner, music and dancing). The class of 1970 will get an opportunity to reminisce, hear Sounds of Yesterday play, reconnect with friends, eat light appetizers and more. When preparing for this event, the question of who married their high school sweetheart was asked. Several people submitted their responses for a Valentine’s Day tribute. Elaine Nasworthy and her husband, Thumper Nasworthy, got married on July 31, 1971. They met in the seventh grade at Mann Junior High. Both went together off and on until the summer before their junior year at Brandon High School. Thumper ran for senior class president and won. “Thumper always treated me like his partner…Even at 17 years old, a certain amount of popularity went with being with
By Tatiana Ortiz
the class president.” Elaine said. “His leadership quality would be what I recognized then and now,” she added. A total of 507 students graduatGraduating class of ed in the class of 1970. 1970. Brandon High School’s 50th Class Reunion came into fruition through its committee, which kept in touch throughout the years. Judy Gay, who handles the website and public relations on the committee, stated the person who was the driving force behind all of their reunions. “Lisa Rodriguez is our chair and assisted with all the planning, along with the communications of it,” Gay said. For those interested in attending the class reunion, tickets cost $80 per person. This includes admission for both nights. Tickets can be purchased online or by mail until Friday, March 20. More information about it can be found at https://bhsreunion1970.myevent.com/pag e.php?groupingID=online_payment. “Overall, we are excited about our class sweethearts that are still together and celebrating their 50th year wedding anniversaries,” Gay said. For more information, visit https://bhsreunion1970.myevent.com. Embassy Suites by Hilton is located at 10220 Palm River Rd. in Tampa. For more information, contact Gail Askew Sweeting at gailsweeting1970@gmail.com.
Boards For Bros Looks To The Community For Volunteers To Continue Mission
By Libby Hopkins
In 1978, the Bro Bowl skateboards in the United skatepark opened in downStates, Cuba, Honduras town Tampa. For years, and Bangladesh,” Box skaters would notice that said. “We will continue to the kids who lived in the expand our reach across neighborhood lacked the all states and we hope to equipment they needed to work on a mobile Boards use at the skatepark. This for Bros team that will sometimes resulted in conbring the gift of skatefrontations as the neighboarding to communities borhood residents came to that cannot support a full resent the outsiders comchapter. We want skateing in to use their park. In boarding to spread into an effort to get the local neighborhoods that might Boards for Bros is a local residents skateboarding, not even have a local nonprofit that is some skaters would bring headquartered at Skatepark of skate shop.” along loaner boards for the Tampa and is looking for more The nonprofit purskateboarders from the area local kids to use. sues partnerships to become involved. In 2006, a group of between their local skateboarders decided that they needed Boards for Bros chapters and youth-cento get those kids their own skateboards to tered nonprofits, as well as targeting keep. Using Skatepark of Tampa (SPoT) underserved neighborhoods in the vicinias their home base, they started to collect ties of skateparks. They are looking for gently used skateboard parts and assem- more skateboarders from the area to bling complete skateboards to hand out become involved with Boards for Bros. to the Bro Bowl youth on Christmas. “This “Our volunteers are involved in all phases tradition continued through 2014, when of our projects, from donation, build and Boards for Bros became a 501(c)(3) non- distribution, and are able to directly expeprofit organization fully committed to rience the impact their hard work has on applying our model to neighborhoods their local community,” Box said. “This beyond the Bro Bowl by providing equipengagement often inspires further volunment, safe skate spots and youth mentor- teerism. The magic of the gift of skateing in communities across the United boarding is that it changes the lives of our States,” said Boards for Bros’ Executive volunteers and the youth who could never Director Michelle Box. experience skateboarding without our Boards for Bros’ headquarters is help.” located at SPoT and it has chapters in If you would like to learn more or volSouth Florida, North Carolina, New unteer visit www.boards4bros.org. Jersey, New York, Chicago and Orange Skatepark of Tampa (SPoT) is located at County, California. “We have distributed 4215 E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa.
Page 22 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
Sailing Dreams Come True As Pair Complete 176-Day, 6,000 Mile Great Loop Journey
By Karin Davis-Thompson
to come home.” from Louisiana on her 40 ft. Pellett wouldn’t be Silverton power boat, Allons-y on denied however. After March 6. suffering two heart “It took 176 days,” Pellett said. attacks, the 59-year-old “We went straight through.” Pellett, was determined to make who was born and raised in every moment count and Pennsylvania before moving to the find a way to make the Valrico area, said she has always trip and fulfill her dream. loved being on the water and Then, she heard enjoyed the diversity of the trip. about another cruiser who “You see something different was thinking about taking around every corner - all kinds of the journey. Thom trees, wildlife, colors of water, and Frederick’s wife had fellow cruisers along the way,” she passed away and he said. “There were about three to needed an outlet for his four hundred boats making the grief but he didn’t want to journey this year. We would have go alone. ‘docktails’ together and tell our Susan Pellett and Thom Frederick teamed up to complete the 6,000 mile journey known as the She reached out to story of where we started our jourGreat Loop, which is made up of natural and man-made waterways that include the Atlantic and Gulf Intracoastal Waterways. him and he agreed to ney.” allow her to be his coWhen the trip was over, Pellett Susan Pellett said she gets known as Suzy Q in the sailing captain. After making sure they said she wasn’t ready for it all to emotional just thinking about it. world, her BaccaLOOPerate made all of the necessary arrange- end. “It’s a big let down when it’s After years of thinking it was only a degree, given in recognition to ments to be away from home for over,” she said. “But I am glad I did dream, she recently sailed the those who complete the unique several months, the pair set sail it.” 6,000 mile journey known as the adventure. The AGLCA is an Great Loop, something very few organization with members who get the chance to do. The Great are interested in exploring and Loop is made up of natural and possibly completing the Great man-made waterways that include Loop. the Atlantic and Gulf Intracoastal But getting the honor wasn’t Celebrating Waterways. If you travel the entire easy for Pellett, whose first attempt 3 2 years path you end up making a giant ended almost before it began when in business! loop, eventually ending up where a barge crushed her boat on a Air Conditioning & Heating you started. marina just 1,500 miles into the After her achievement, the trip. America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ “I was hysterical,” Pellett said. Sunairtampa.com | 813-684-9919 Association (AGLCA) gave Pellett, “It folded my boat in half and I had with Tune Up Family Owned and Operated for 32 Years
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Page 23 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020
Page 24 • christianvoicemonthly.com • February 2020