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Volume 24, Issue 4
A Free Publication from Osprey Observer Inc.
April 2020
Churches Adjust Services To Follow CDC Guidelines
Offers On Page 3
16
Alex Trebek Page 16
As the total number of cases of COVID-19 appear to be on the rise, religious communities throughout the world are finding new ways to continue to worship. Italy is one of the hardest hit countries and the government imposed a quarantine for all its citizens. This ultimately resulted an unprecedented announcement from Pope Francis to hold Easter mass without the public for the first time. As the request for quarantine becomes more prevalent, many churches are currently exploring new and creative ways that they can minister to each other and to people in the community during this unique time. It’s certainly unfortunate that this outbreak is occurring during the Easter Season—which brings Christians together around the globe to rejoice and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. The virus is forcing churches worldwide to find alternative ways to celebrate and worship while maintaining crucial selfdistancing. On Friday, March 20 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended avoiding large gatherings of 50 or more for eight weeks, which would include Easter Sunday, April 12. On Thursday, March 19, The Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg suspended public masses for all Catholic churches in Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Counties. Most churches throughout the United States have followed suit and suspended all church functions, gatherings and worship services, including the churches in our local communities. With social distancing necessary, churches are now navigating different forms of ‘live’ worship through streaming services on their websites, Facebook Live and YouTube. Many churches are even considering other alternatives such as drivein worship services, where churchgoers remain in their cars in the parking lot. New Beginnings Christian Church, located at 4100 S. Manhattan Ave. in Tampa, has been conducting drive-in church services for several years. Other churches are considering communion supplies for pickup or drop-off at houses for the faithful that still want to partake in the sacrament of communion. Because churches cannot congregate in person, this may also affect tithes and offerings. Many churches are making online donations available on websites or other electronic means.
There is a concern that elderly congregants may not have access to the internet, the ability to stream services or make their weekly offerings online. This could lead to further isolation when the faithful cannot gather to fellowship. As the news changes daily, the churches will need to remain flexible and continue to explore how to best serve their members during this difficult time. Kristen Franzen of Riverview normally attends Sun City Center United Methodist Church. She says that her family will be watching the live worship service from their home on Sundays until church services resume as normal. “They have been posting videos to Facebook to let the congregation know that they are streaming two services every Sunday.” It’s during these times that we are reminded that the people are the church, not the actual building. Throughout the Bible, church is always a reference to people, not a place. Thankfully, there are many ways for the faithful to fellowship together with the numerous new technologies available. And hopefully, when the social distancing has come to an end, church members across the globe will be able to fellowship in person, hug, take communion and worship together once again. Let us remember Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
ECHO Announces News Shares Program For Churches
Staff Report
New Pastor Jomo
Pg 7
Columns: Grace Notes:
Page 5
Hooked On Books:
Page 9
Bikes For Christ:
Page 15
Faith & Footprints:
Page 18
ECHO of Brandon In addition, both of has been serving the ECHO’s outreach cenhungry and vulnerable for ters will remain open 33 years, and the time of for food distribution. social isolation related to The group has susCOVID-19 is no different. pended its six month “I realize that the waiting period between world feels a bit crazy at visits policy and will be the moment, but help is handing out bags of here,” said Executive food based on family Director Eleanor size. Due to ECHO’s Saunders. volunteers being asked The group recently to stay home, food disannounced a new initiatribution is the only tive called ECHO Shares, service it will be providwhich includes a partnerECHO of Brandon recently announced a new initiative called ECHO Shares, ing at this time. ship with local faith-based which includes a partnership with local faith-based organizations. ECHO has two organizations. deliveries. Then a representative locations for food distribution: 507 N. “Since 1987, ECHO has counted from the church should register for Parsons Ave. in Brandon from on the support of the local church ECHO Shares with Savanna at 685Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 community,” said Saunders. “Now it 0935 ext. 800. p.m., and 7807 Capitano St. in is our turn to support you.” To set up a delivery, the church Riverview from Tuesday to Friday, 9 The steps to participate in ECHO will need to provide its name and the a.m.-1 p.m. Shares are simple. name, address and number of family Due to limited support, ECHO will “We trust you have elderly and/or members for the delivery. not be accepting clothing, household struggling families in your congregaECHO will then prepare the bags goods or toy donations. Food will still tion. ECHO would like to provide you and confirm a time for pick up. be accepted at both locations. with a bag full of nonperishable items “We believe together we can help Financial gifts can be given online at for delivery,” said Saunders. even more,” said Saunders, who also echofl.org/give-today. The group asks that residents shared that, because the majority of ECHO of Brandon is located at confirm with church leadership if their the group’s volunteers are retired, the 507 N. Parsons Ave. and can be church has the capacity and need for volunteers have been sent home. reached at 685-0935.
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Mission Provides Food For Children In Need While many of us spend the weekends at cookouts, going out to eat or ordering in, there are many children in the community that go hungry on the weekends. Recognizing the need to help food-insecure students, South Shore United Methodist Church (SSUMC) stepped into action in 2011 with its Backpacks on a Mission outreach program. Connie Bishop, coordinator for Backpacks on a Mission, joined the church in 2012 and immediately became involved in this important effort. “I had always worked with the senior population and wanted to expand my horizons, therefore, children,” said Bishop. “What an eye opener. First of all, I could not believe that there were children going hungry over weekends. Secondly, this was in my neighborhood. I knew that I had to help in any way that I could.” The backpacks are distributed to students from low-income families at Corr, Dawson, Summerfield Crossings and Summerfield Elementary Schools. The students take the backpacks home filled with nonperishable food over the weekend so they will have something to eat. Backpacks on a Mission began in the 2011-2012 school year with back-
By Kelly Wise Valdes
packs sent home filled with food to 25 students. Today, the backpacks are sent home each weekend to 169 students. Yearto-date, the church has sent home 1,068 backpacks. Items supplied in the backpacks vary from peanut butter and jelly, instant oatmeal, canned fruit and ravioli, among other items. “Our funding for Backpacks on a Mission comes from grants, donations and contributions from our congregation and community,” said Bishop. “These contributions, however, are not always sufficient to cover the cost of providing food.” In order to raise money for this mission, SSUMC had planned its first annual Backpacks on a Mission Walka-Thon, but the event was recently postponed. Visit www.southshoreumc.com/online-giving to keep up to date with the event when it is rescheduled. If you are interested in helping host a food drive at your workplace, volunteering or donating money towards the purchase of food and supplies, please contact Connie Bishop at 677-9482. South Shore United Methodist Church is located at 11525 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview.
Dr. Gary Chapman, Author Of The 5 Love Languages, Speaking At FishHawk Fellowship
By Kelly Wise Valdes
of us use The 5 Love Languages like a blunt tool, often ignoring some of the nuances that exist in communication and love.” In The 5 Love Languages, Dr. Gary Chapman, award-winning author of The 5 Love Chapman presents Languages, is speaking at a marriage conference at FishHawk Fellowship Church on Saturday, April 18. the simple truth that relationships grow Dr. Gary Chapman is an author, better when we understand each other speaker and counselor with a passion better. Because everyone gives and for people and helping them form lastreceives love differently, with a little ing relationships. He is the New York insight into these differences, we can Times bestselling author of the series be confidently equipped to communiThe 5 Love Languages and the direccate love better. This is true for all tor of Marriage and Family Life forms of relationships: married or datConsultants, Inc. Chapman travels the ing couples, children and teenagers, world speaking at conference and his parents, even friends and coworkers. radio programs broadcast on more In this marriage conference, than 400 stations. Chapman will further explore the five Chapman will be coming to speak different love languages: words of affirat FishHawk Fellowship Church’s The mation, acts of service, receiving gifts, Five Love Languages Marriage quality time and physical touch. Conference on Saturday, April 18 from “I am excited to explore this with 9 a.m-3:30 p.m. The cost for an indithe guy who literally wrote the book on vidual is $44 and couples are $69. it so that we can have healthier, more Lunch is included with the admission fulfilling relationships,” said Flores. “It’s price and childcare is available. super important to learn how the peoWith the popularity of The 5 Love Languages, more than 400 people are ple we love feel loved in return.” For any questions, to purchase expected to attend this special event, tickets and reserve childcare, visit according to Tyler Flores, director of www.fishhawkfc.org/marriageconfermedia and communications for ence or call 655-7431. FishHawk FishHawk Fellowship. Fellowship Church is located at 15326 “Honestly, Gary’s approach has Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia. Please note, been so instrumental in the lives and date subject to change. Please contact relationships of so many people, church for confirmation. including me,” said Flores. “But many
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Seffner Christian Pitcher Turkett Signs To Play Baseball At Florida Southern Seffner Christian break. The senior Academy star left-handcaptain is looking ed pitcher and first baseforward to next man Tommy Turkett has season, but he signed to continue his hopes to have the baseball career with opportunity Florida Southern College to lead the in Lakeland. Crusaders as far The four-year varsity as he can. SCA player will join his Turkett wants brother, Bobby Turkett, to able to play who currently plays for right away and the Mocs. His dad, compete at a high Robert Turkett, also level at FSC. “I’m played for Florida looking forward to Tommy and Bobby Turkett have played Southern from 1992-95. playing with my baseball together their whole lives. Tommy and Bobby (From Tommy Turkett.) brother again have played baseball brother is currently playing because it’s so with each other their whole lives. They for.” much fun to be Tommy Turkett (right) with his brother, Tommy Turkett crosses the plate. played little league, AAU and high Seffner Christian Head (Photo courtesy of Jarrett Guthrie.) able to play with Bobby Turkett. (From Tommy Turkett.) school baseball together and will once Coach Sal Giardina Sr. will your sibling,” said and around campus.” again be teammates at FSC. This miss his leadership. He is one of two Tommy, adding that he and his brother The Crusaders are currently 8-1 played a role in Tommy’s final decision seniors that have been on varsity all are very close. “I’m really looking foroverall, with the season on hold due on where to attend school. four years of his coaching ward to being able to do that for two the Coronavirus. Turkett is 2-0 with a “It means a lot, especially knowing tenure. “What sets Tommy apart from more years.” 0.68 earned run average. He may that my brother is already there,” said other players is how hard he works Giardina thinks that he has potenhave already played his last high Tommy. “It’s really special to me to be in the off-season and on his tial at the next level. “I am looking forschool game, depending on whether able to sign and go play for the same own,” Giardina said. “He is also a ward to what God has planned for Hillsborough County decides to cancel college that my dad did and that my leader off the field, in the classroom Tommy at the next level.” the season after the extended spring
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Page 5 • christianvoicemonthly.com • April 2020
Grace Notes Sweater Love
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Personal Attention 40 Years of Experience Conveniently Located A couple in their 70s sat directly in front of me in church, his arm protectively circling her petite shoulders as they shared intimate looks and warm smiles. So sweet. So obviously smitten. I later learned their names are Bill and Sandi. They’ve been married for decades. But something seemed…well, different, about them. What was it? It was only then that I noticed the wheelchair. And the contracted fingers of Sandi’s right hand resting in her lap. And her leg brace. My years as an occupational therapist clued me in that Sandi had experienced a stroke (CVA) with residual hemiparesis of her right side. Noooo. My heart lurched for her. I knew all too well the indescribable struggles inherent in life after a stroke. And a stroke like Sandi’s that affects the brain’s left hemisphere likely results in sensory deficits and speech problems too. When the congregation rose for the first song, Sandi tried to stand but gracefully fell back into the wheelchair. Bill casually assisted her to her feet, making no big deal about it. Sandi smiled lovingly at him and swayed slightly before extending her left hand to share the songbook as they lifted their voices together, his stabilizing arm discreetly at her waist. Suddenly Sandi’s cardigan, which was elegantly draped over her shoulders in cape fashion, slid off her shoulder. Bill deftly reached out in a smooth move and reconciled
the prodigal sweater with Sandi’s shoulder using subtle skill evidently honed by practice. Throughout the remainder of the service, I watched Bill gently retrieve and replace that errant sweater on Sandi’s shoulder six times. Something about that simple act of willingly and unobtrusively responding to her unspoken need, even for something as small as this—no, especially for something as small as this—totally spoke to me. It said love. Real love. Forever love. He was watching out for her. He literally and figuratively had her back. In this age of a horrendous 50 percent divorce rate that has already affected or at some point in time will rip the soul of far too many people, this sweater kind of love must be celebrated. Applauded. Admired. It’s the same kind of love Christ has for us, his bride (the church), that’s so well expressed in Ephesians 3:19 (NLT): “May you experience the love of Christ, though it is so great you will never fully understand it. Then you will be filled with the fullness of life and power that comes from God.” And you’ll know without a doubt that you’re sweater-loved.
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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The Mighty Miracles Of Jesus
Bay Life Meets Needs During Crisis Time Online Services, Zoom Ministries
Healing Of Ten Men With Leprosy
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Staff Report
vide resources, teaching and opportunities to engage through the children’s Facebook group. The church is also offering assistance to those classified as the high-risk community who have chosen to selfquarantine. “Areas of Pastor Mark Saunders is leading Bay Life Church with video assistance may messages and onling streaming of services. include grocery In order to help its members durshopping, picking up prescriptions or ing these unprecedented other items that need to be times, Bay Life Church, picked up and delivered to led by Pastor Mark their home,” said Saunders. Saunders, is putting faith Anyone needing this into action. assistance is encouraged to Starting in midemail help@baylife.org or call March, in an effort to do 661-3696 ext. 320. its part to curb the effects Volunteers are needed to of the coronavirus, the help with the ministries and church began offering all are asked to contact Erica ministries that regularly met on camWatson at ewatson@baylife.org or call pus online services. Online church 661-3696 ext. 310. services are available on Saturday at 6 “Now more than ever we as a p.m. and Sunday at 9 and 10:45 a.m. church need to prepare for what lies “We continue working behind the ahead by continuing (and potentially scenes to make all of our ministries increasing, as God leads) our practice available online as much as possible,” of generous giving,” said Saunders. said Saunders, who mentioned that all To learn more about giving, visit Life Groups, Women’s and Men’s baylife.org/give or give from your Ministries and Student Ministries will phone by texting GIVE and the amount continue to meet through Zoom. you want to give to 308-0608. Children’s Ministries will also pro-
During the course of His ministry, Jesus performed more than 40 miracles, including healing the sick, changing the natural elements of nature and even raising people from the dead. A miracle is considered an event that occurs outside the bounds of natural law. Each month, we will take a closer look at one of His miracles to understand the depth of His love for us. Understanding the miracles of Jesus can change your life and it all begins with believing through faith. In Luke 17:11-19, there’s a touching story about Jesus healing 10 lepers. Unlike other miracles, it isn’t the healing that’s the point of the story, but what happened during and after that explains God’s power and mercy. The men with leprosy were not only ill but were also social outcasts. Leprosy is a terrible skin disease that causes people’s flesh to scar and decay and is highly contagious. These outcasts often formed their own communities for personal safety and to combat their isolation. People
would sometimes throw stones at lepers who they thought were getting too close to them, out of fear of contamination. Jesus was in their village, but these 10 men were too afraid to approach Jesus to ask for his help and “stood at a distance” and called for him to have pity on them. Jesus approached the lepers and instructed them go show themselves to the priest. That meant that they needed faith that as they left Jesus to go see the priest, that they would be healed. Jesus did not heal them first. He told them to go see the priest while they still had leprosy. That’s almost a definition of faith; trusting in what we cannot prove. In the story, only one of the 10 comes back to thank Jesus. Interestingly, the one who comes back is a Samaritan. Samaritans were sworn enemies of Jews at that time. So why was he the one to come back, rather than the Jews? Maybe he had had a more profound sense of what had been done for him. If Jesus healed only Jewish people, that would be a normal expectation. If you don’t believe you deserve to be saved and God saves you anyway, you will be deeply grateful. For Jesus to heal a Samaritan showed that God’s grace is for everyone. Indeed, God’s grace and mercy is given to all of us through our faith in Him.
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Page 7 • christianvoicemonthly.com • April 2020
Pastor’s Corner Jomo Cousins, PhD Monthly Message: Unity Acts 4:31 Amplified Bible (AMP): And when they had prayed, the place where they were meeting together was shaken [a sign of God’s presence]; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the word of God with boldness and courage. When believers are united in purpose and prayer, great things can occur. And that’s why the enemy fights to keep us separated. Unified prayer has the ability to shift the atmosphere. Power is released when believers pray in agreement. When we pray together, we can target the direction of our faith. These prayers release a signal to God at a greater frequency. The most suitable example would be the voice projection of a solo artist versus a choir. They are both pleasing to God, but the multitude of voices is more impactful. I love how Matthew 18:19 speaks of God moving when believers pray together. Matthew 18:19 The Message (MSG) When two of you get together on
By Pastor Jomo Cousins, PhD
anything at all on earth and make a prayer of it, my Father in heaven goes into action. And when two or three of you are together because of me, you can be sure that I’ll be there. The key thing I want you to take away from this verse is “my Father in heaven goes into action.” Believers we have the ability to ask God to work on our behalf. This alone should be reason enough for all of us to engage in a meaningful prayer life. Imagine that, when we are unified, God is glorified and will honor us with His presence. On another note, I believe the marriage union can be one of the greatest benefactors of two people praying together. There’s no greater connection on earth than a husband and wife praying to God. Your best marriage comes after prayer becomes a normal practice. Except from: Prayer Life: The Conversation Page 217
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Page 8 • christianvoicemonthly.com • April 2020
Love First Christian Center Pays Off Medical Debts For Area Residents
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Senior Pastor Dr. There was no Jomo Cousins is the special offering or founder of Love First campaign drive to Christian Center in raise the money to pay Riverview. Several years off the medical debts. ago, Cousins experiThe money came from enced a large medical the church’s outreach debt in part from his own budget; however, the cancer and, in addition, reward for this his daughter had been expense was pricetreated for a brain condiless. tion. One Christmas, As word spread Cousins received a letter through the communithat their medical debt ty, Cousins was had been paid. pleased knowing that Obviously, this was a the churches outreach Pastor Dr. Jomo Cousins and his huge relief for Cousins wife, Dr. Charmaine Cousins, are had changed lives and and his family and this ministers who founded Love First blessed people by Christian Center in 2008. blessing that happened all helping others through those years ago was the inspiration for this gift. Cousins to be able to pay it forward. “I heard of friends of friends that were A few months ago, residents in truly blessed,” said Cousins. “We try to do Riverview, Gibsonton and Wimauma things that are outside the walls and benreceived letters letting them know that eficial to the community.” their medical debts were paid. Love First Love First Christian Center is located Christian Center paid the debts through at 12847 Balm Riverview Rd. in RIP Medical Debt, a company that buys Riverview. large bundles of medical debt at a deeply The church is hosting a Good Friday reduced cost and then, through donaWorship Service on Friday, April 10 at tions, pays off the debt. Cousins learned 7:30 p.m. as well as Easter services. For that Love First Christian Center could other service times and events, visit eliminate nearly $1.3 million dollars worth www.lfcc.tv or call 671-2009. Cousins is of medical debt for more than 800 people the author of Fully Equipped: God’s Total in the community at a reasonably low Package and The ABC’S of Success. price. Cousins spiritually empowers over half a “I don’t believe in accidents and I million people daily via his radio broadbelieve you reap what you sow,” said cast heard on Fresh Wind Radio, weekly Cousins. “And, I believe God laid it on syndicated television programming, podsomeone’s heart to help us and we had a casts and social media outlets. For more responsibility to help someone else.” information, visit www.jomocousins.com.
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Page 9 • christianvoicemonthly.com • April 2020
What Does Easter Mean To you?
By Kelly Wise Valdes
When my children were little, we were all very excited about Easter—mostly because they associated that day with Easter egg hunts, chocolate candy and marshmallow bunnies. And who can forget about Cadbury Eggs! Honestly, as a mom of little ones, it was easy to get caught up in the fun and festivities that come with the celebration of Easter. But, looking back now that the children are grown, I realize that I missed the opportunity during Easter to teach my children to better understand about Christ’s sacrifice for us. Now that I’m older, I’m taking a moment to reflect—what does Easter mean to ME? It had been so long since I really thought about the true meaning of Easter that I realized I needed to go back and really explore my personal relationship with Jesus and his crucifixion, death and resurrection. Easter is more than dying eggs and eating jellybeans. It’s time as Christians to practice love and thankfulness to Christ for His ultimate sacrifice for us. Peace and blessing this Easter season.
The Case for Easter By Lee Strobel This award-winning book delves into the questions about Christ’s death answers three crucial questions seekers ask: Was Jesus’ death a sham? Was his tomb really empty? Was he seen alive after his death on the cross? Strobel’s award-winning skills as a legal journalist will persuade even the most hard-boiled skeptics to reconsider Jesus’ death and resurrection.
The Women of Easter: Encounter the Savior with Mary of Bethany, Mary of Nazareth, and Mary Magdalene By Liz Curtis Higgs
This Easter Bible study explores the stories of three women who played a vital role in the life and ministry of Jesus. With unforgettable insights and powerful life application for today’s women, readers will view Easter through the eyes of Mary of Bethany, who prepared the way before the cross; Mary, the mother of Jesus, who was addressed from the cross; and Mary Magdalene, who proclaimed Christ’s resurrection after the cross.
The Easter Code By O. S. Hawkins
Jesus Calling for Easter By Sarah Young
Spend meaningful time with Jesus this Easter season as you read through meaningful devotions focusing on the places, people and events in the life of Christ all the way to His resurrection. Each reflection includes a Scripture passage, a devotion, a Code Word and a prayer. An excellent outreach gift in preparation for Easter—ideal for congregations, Bible study groups, friends and family.
Exquisite photography alongside the heartwarming and meaningful devotions make this a stunning keepsake for family and friends or an inspirational gift to yourself. Relevant Easter Scriptures keep the focus on the deep significance of this most blessed time of the year. Features include a padded hardcover binding, color printing throughout, a presentation page and a ribbon bookmark.
Page 10 • christianvoicemonthly.com • April 2020
Hope or Fear? Take Time To Experience God More Fully
A Message From The Angel Foundation; Continuing To Serve Families In Need
These are am totally dependextraordinary times ent on Him in which we find ourbecause in those selves. times, I don’t have Unprecedented any answers I times. These days think I have in can be full of doubt, other times. And uncertainty and fear. being totally You see in the dependent on Him absence of facts our is where we minds race to the should learn to be worse case scenarall the time. ios…the what ifs. Let There is an old me encourage you in hymn I love. The these times of the words go like this: unknowns and the “Turn your eyes Pastor Dan Reid and Wife Angie what ifs to turn to upon Jesus, look what is certain. What I mean is to full in His wonderful face, and the find your hope in the Lord. Look at things of earth will grow strangely what God says to those who follow dim, in the light of His glory and Him. “Fear grace.” not, for I am Let me with you; be encourage not disyou to find mayed, for I hope in the am your Lord in this God; I will time. He strengthen cares for you. you, I will There is fear help you, I in our world will uphold right now— you with my mostly righteous right hand,” (Isaiah because of the unknown. There is 41:10). hope in the Lord. Look to Him in What I have found to be true is this time—really look to Him. He is that in the toughest times of life, I there for you. experience God even more fully. It Our church is here for you in is in those times that God does this time. If you need encouragegreat work in my life, in my family, ment or need hope, please email us in my church. Maybe it is because I at info@journey7.com.
As of this mal. We can do writing on that now. March 20, As of this 2020, we are writing, the facing many Angel uncertainties Foundation FL in the days plans to continue ahead. Each to serve families day brings in the days news of busiahead. We will nesses shutmodify our proting down, gram to limit people being face-to-face forced to selfinteractions to The Angel Foundation is helping area families in keep our volunquarantine need during these trying times. and, worst of teers and famiall, the loss of life from this dreadful lies safe. But each day brings new virus. We are truly in uncharted territo- changes and we are learning to adapt ries. to a new way of living, indefinitely. It is easy to be filled with panic I am confident that these events and fear about the days ahead. The are not a surprise to God. He knows reality we face today is that we do not the big picture. We can choose how know what tomorrow will bring. By the we react in the days ahead. We can time of this printing, while I pray that react with panic and fear, or we can we are spared, the sad reality is that react with peace and faith. I choose we may be experiencing loss of life to peace and faith. While we must take the COVID-19 virus right here in our every precaution necessary to stay community. healthy, we must also use this time to As the executive director of the reflect on the many blessings we have Angel Foundation, FL, it is my honor to taken for granted until now. work alongside volunteers dedicated I will be praying daily for peace to serving families in crisis due to a life and for our families, community, nation -threatening illness or catastrophic and the world: remain healthy and event every day. We have the opportu- strong. This shall pass, and when it nity to meet their practical needs and does, we will be filled with a new give them encouragement and hope, appreciation for all the things we have so they know they are not alone, and taken for granted for so long. It is my that is our greatest blessing. Many of sincere desire that hearts will turn to the families we serve face the the Lord Jesus Christ and receive the unknown each day yet show incredible hope that only comes from a relationcourage as the navigate their new nor- ship with Him.
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Page 11 • christianvoicemonthly.com • April 2020
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come a teacher? Why did you decide to be make an ence, be a role model and I wanted to make a differ I grew up rk. in which I live and wo impact in the community wait to n’t uld up to sundown. I co playing each day from sun urs on ho for es with my friends get to the park, playing gam to pursue my dream of for me end! It only made sense ch others ation teacher. I could tea uc ed cal ysi ph a becoming ysicalwhat I love to do, “be ph ly active!”
a What is a goal of yours as teacher? ucation teacher, my goal ed cal ysi As the ph rstand the phrase is for our students to unde h!” Learning “Your health is your wealt ive, eating how to be active, stay act free is what I healthy and staying drug day for my stupromote and model each e this goal. dents to be able to achiev moments Any embarrassing teacher Ms. Now akows you are willing to share? in ht rig 32 years ki has been tea nd ble I en oft ”, 5’2 ch in the sc Being only hool sys ing for tem. down the with the students waking , nd calling out for her frie halls. There was a student student said I see what was going on the when I turned around to ! me so…not realizing it was thought you were so and and why? s us that What is your favorite book book, Tony Dungy remind the In y. ng Du ny To by bit of strength Quiet Strength n, and I would need every thi wi d an d Go m fro s strength come I could muster up. that you live by? Is there a quote or saying do wrong!” “There’s NO right way to
system? uld change in our school op into the Is there anything you wo have ample time to devel to ed ne y the d an s, kid ectaKids need to be . Having high academic exp me co be to d ne sti de e y’r the sole future leaders the rtant, but it shouldn’t be po im ely rem ext is nts de ’t lose sight of tions for our stu ell-rounded,’ and we can ‘w be to s an me l sfu ces focus. To be suc uth. otional aspects of our yo the physical, social and em
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Food Waste Matters To Teens Who Created A Community Compost Box
By Amy Schechter
Are you really commixture, as these posting if there aren’t are too hard for the any worms in the mix? worms to digest. Kayley Pennington and The girls are Cheyenne Bolender, passionate about members of Newsome how even individuHigh’s chapter of Family, als can make a difCareer and Community ference. Bolender Leaders of America explained, (FCCLA), are committed “Vermiculture helps to conservation through tackle food waste. It vermiculture, which reduces food waste involves the controlled that gets dumped growth of worms in a into landfills and special container. Their creates methane project won them gold gas. The worms at the district competialso excrete casttion, and they are in ings, which make a need of community super-rich fertilizer.” Students Kayley Pennington and support as they have Did you know that Cheyenne Bolender created a community compost box. their sights set on not food waste costs the only the states this month, but the nationU.S. approximately $160 billion a year? It als as well. also affects our community by using up They crafted a special box made of large amounts of energy, land, fertilizer, chicken feed bags and pallets donated chemicals and freshwater. from the Crossroads Ace Hardware that They hope that through the commuhouses the worms with a mix of dirt and nity adding their scraps they can create a plant waste. It is at the back entrance of project which is self-sustaining. It will not FishHawk Fellowship Church closest to only help save the world, it will make ferthe entrance of The Preserve at tilizer and nutrient-rich “worm tea” that FishHawk Ranch. Pennington and drains from the bottom available to local Bolender invite the community to add backyard gardeners. For more informatheir plant waste to the mix. “There’s tion, visit their Facebook site: directions with a log for people to sign, https://www.facebook.com/foodwaste.mat and we have gloves and tools for you to ters.1. turn and mix your waste into the compost. The box is located at the rear of the We ask that people sign their name and property of FishHawk Fellowship Church date on the log located on site as well,” at 15326 Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia and is Pennington said. Just remember, no most easily accessed from Osprey Ridge meat, dairy or citrus should go into the Dr.
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Page 12 • christianvoicemonthly.com • April 2020
A Message From Ministerio Casa Restauracion: Have Faith And Not Fear
By Kathleen Nicosia, Outreach Coordinator
“Be encouraged, do not be afraid, the Lord your God is with you wherever you may go,” (Joshua 1:9). Although many may have been taken by surprise over the recent outbreak of the coronavirus, this is no surprise to our God! We are a family of FAITH and not of fear and tragedy! We speak life and hold fast to the Word and Promises of God! Although we may not be able to gather in our buildings, we ARE the Church. Be reminded, this is where we shine our brightest! We encourage believers to pray wherever you go, whether driving in your cars, at the stores and in your neighborhoods. Release a word of encouragement over those you encounter: cashiers, delivery workers and mail carriers. Don’t be afraid to pray for one another. We are the light and salt of the world. Follow government guidelines and take proper precautions to
protect yourselves and your families, but do not be afraid; we serve a mighty God that is in control. We have The Solution, the love of Christ that others need too. While we gather in our homes, we also have the opportunity to change generations as our children and grandchildren witness how WE pray, praise and worship the Lord in the midst of these difficult situations. Although our gatherings and events may be on hold, our God isn't! From our family at MCR, know that we are here to serve you and are praying for you and your loved ones. May our God be revealed in a mighty way to those everywhere. In Jesus’ mighty name we pray. Amen. God bless you and your families. We love you! Kathleen Nicosia, Outreach Coordinator Ministerio Casa Restauración can be reached at 553-9000. Visit www.mcr4you.org.
New Hope United Methodist Church Offers Prayer And Daily Videos On Social Media New Hope will be moving all of our worship services, both English and Spanish, to online only starting on March 22. We invite our community near and far to join us at findnewhope.com or on Facebook on Sunday mornings at 8:00, 9:30 and 11:00 a.m. for a time of worship. We are also offering resources for families to help their children and youth stay connected. Daily videos on our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/findnewhopefl, will provide updated announcements and a time to worship no matter where you are throughout the day. We anticipate continuing our Food Co-Op on the first and third Tuesday of the month in a drive-thru format and are moving to virtual classrooms for our small group opportunities. If you would like to register for our Food Co-Op, visit www.findnewhope.com/food-coop to prepay for our next meeting. One food
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Page 13 • christianvoicemonthly.com • April 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
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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 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 14 • christianvoicemonthly.com • April 2020
Bikes For Christ Wins WEDU’s Be More Empowered Award
By Libby Hopkins
Bikes For Christ recently won WEDU’s Be More Empowered Award.
Author C. S. Lewis once said, “You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change your ending.” Pat Simmons of Dover would agree with Mr. Lewis because he experienced a change in life that put him on a new path. “In 2015, I took a mission trip with my church to Nicaragua,” Simmons said. “I experienced what real poverty was like. When I returned, I was on fire to do something, but I didn't know what I wanted to do. God instilled in me, that I should start a ministry that helped people with transportation. I had wanted to find something that combined my love of cycling with something that actually had purpose, and now I had found it.” Bikes For Christ was started in March 2016, and the local nonprofit recently celebrated its fourth anniversary. “Currently, we work with approximately 50 organizations in the Tampa Bay area that deal directly with clients in need,” Simmons
said. “Case managers at these agencies vet out the clients and decide who a bicycle would be of great benefit. They then place a referral order with us and we deliver the bike to the agency to gift to the client. Our main focus is underprivileged children, veterans who are trying to re-establish themselves and anyone that is in need and trying to overcome their current situation. And, of course, with every bike we give out, we also give a Gospel of John or some other scriptural text, because we want that individual to develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.” Simmons and his team have another reason to celebrate other than its fourth anniversary: Bikes For Christ recently won WEDU’s Be More Empowered Award. “It was totally unexpected to win the WEDU Be More Empowered Award,” Simmons said. “In fact, it was our second win in just over a month, having just won the ‘Small Business of the Year’ award with the Valrico FishHawk Chamber. Winning both was incredibly overwhelming. The Be More Empowered Award itself goes to the small nonprofit making the biggest impact here in the Tampa Bay area, so that really means a lot, especially with the other worthy organizations we were competing against.” If you would like to learn more about Bikes For Christ, you can visit its website at www.bikes4christ.com or contact Simmons at 533-9177.
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Page 15 • christianvoicemonthly.com • April 2020
The Fruit Of The Holy Spirit What Is Love?
Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church’s Youth Group Hosts Stations Down 60
By Kelly Wise Valdes
By Libby Hopkins
Youth Ministries is a vibrant and vital part of the life of Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church. On Friday, April 10 (Good Friday), Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church will host ‘Stations Down 60’ beginning at 10 a.m. This event is free and open to the public. Morgan Brownlee is the church’s minister of youth and family. The ‘Stations Down 60’ event came about after the youth group was wanting to do things outside of the church’s walls. “It came to be when Father Bryan and the youth volunteers were looking for an experiential thing the youth could participate in outside of church walls,” Brownlee said. “They were brainstorming about what they could do differently while also inviting the community into the process of understanding Good Friday. While considering their options, Father Bryan suggested, why not ‘pick up a cross and start walking down State Road 60,’ and the youth loved the idea. So, Good Friday morning, the youth and a handful of adults picked up the cross, grabbed pocket Bibles and began walking. They stopped every few blocks to read through the Stations of the Cross, encountered and prayed over a
person on the sidewalk, and received plenty of positive, encouraging honks and waves. As the youth reflected on their experience with performing these stations down State Road 60, there was no question of whether or not we’d do it next year, it was something they wanted to happen for years to come.” The “‘Stations Down 60’ will begin in the parking lot of First Presbyterian Church, located at 121 Carver Ave. in Brandon. “First Presbyterian Church has graciously agreed to letting us park on their property for the event and begin our walk from their church grounds,” Brownlee said. “We will walk westbound, stopping periodically to recite the Stations of the Cross and eventually return to First Presbyterian.” Brownlee hopes that people from the community will join the youth group on their walk. “Our hopes are to invite people from the Greater Brandon/Valrico area to experience the passion narrative, to spread the love of Jesus Christ and to help our youth grow to have a stronger spiritual relationship with God,” Brownlee said. “As our motto states, ‘Transforming lives, transforming the world.’” If you would like to learn more about Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church or its youth program, you can visit the church’s website at www.hiepiscopal.org or call 689-3130. Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church is located at 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico.
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Galatians 5:22-23 tells us, “The Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility and self-control.” You may have heard about the fruit of the Spirit and wondered what it is and how it relates our Christian faith. In this series, each fruit will be explored and related to our every day lives. Just like physical fruit needs time to grow, the fruit of the Spirit will not ripen in our lives overnight. As we mature in our faith, all the characteristics of our spiritual fruits will grow as well. Love is probably the most wellknown fruit of the Spirit, but it’s also may be the most misunderstood. Love is translated from the Greek word ‘agape.’ The Greek language has multiple words for love, including ‘eros,’ which is sexual love, and ‘philos,’ which is brotherly love. Agape is a perfect love from God. Jesus used the word ‘love’ 51 times during his teaching. In John 15:17, he used the word ‘love’ in a command, “These things I command you, that you love one another.” One of the most important traits of Christian character is love, a fruit indicat-
ing the presence of the Holy Spirit. Christian-based love always seeks the to do the right thing. I Corinthians 13, also known as the love chapter, tells us that love is patient, love is kind and love never fails. In the world we live in, love often fails. We see it in marriages, families, relationships. Even as imperfect Christians, we often fail at love. In society, we have overused the word ‘love’ in ways that minimize the depth of what real love is. We say we “loved the movie” or we “loved those blueberry pancakes” or we “love” a Facebook post. God demonstrates His perfect, selfless, agape love to a world that is often confused about what true love is. As a child of God’s, we need to strive to show others God’s love through us. Whether it be reaching out to a friend in need, volunteering in a mission, giving our time to a cause—reach out in love, and let the fruit of love ripen inside your spirit. John 13:35 tells us, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
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Page 16 • christianvoicemonthly.com • April 2020
Hot Off The Christian News Wire
By Kelly Wise Valdes
great story and is the perfect companion to the Laugh and Learn Bible for Kids or a delightful stand-alone tool that will introduce toddlers and preschoolers to beloved, one-minute, gospel-focused Bible stories. www.laughandlearnbible.com for more information.
Alex Trebek Credits ‘Faith In God,’ Prayers For Beating 18 Percent Survival Rate VeggieTales Creator Phil Vischer Releases Best-Selling Kids Bible Geared To Toddlers-This Easter
FaithWords is pleased to announce its latest addition to the already-popular collection of kid’s books by VeggieTales creator and author Phil Vischer, Laugh and Learn Bible for Little Ones. “The Bible makes life make sense, and I’ve spent most of my life helping kids make sense of the Bible through creative media, culminating last year with the launch of my new Laugh and Learn Bible for Kids. The response to that fun-filled walk through God’s word has been so fantastic that now we’re back with a new board book version for our littlest friends. And just in time for Easter baskets,” said Vischer. This simple board book Bible includes fifteen beautifully illustrated, whimsically written Bible stories that will introduce little learners to God’s
Alex Trebek, the longtime host of the popular television game show Jeopardy!, is crediting his faith in God and the prayers of “millions” for helping him beat a low survival rate for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. Trebek, who has stage four pancreatic cancer, noted in a video posted on social media that the one-year survival rate for those in his situation is 18 percent. “I’m very happy to report I have just reached that marker,” Trebek said. “Now, I’d be lying if I said the journey had been an easy one. There were moments of great pain, days when certain bodily functions no longer functioned, and sudden massive attacks of great depression that made me wonder if it really was worth fighting on. But I brushed that aside quickly because that would have been a massive betrayal—a betrayal of my wife and soulmate Jean who has given her
Expiration: 4/30/2020
all to help me survive,” he said. “And,” Trebek added, “it would certainly have been a betrayal of my faith in God and the millions of prayers that have been said on my behalf.” Trebek encouraged his fans to face trials with optimism. Trebek hasn’t discussed his personal faith in detail, although he grew up Catholic. He also is an ambassador for World Vision, a Christian humanitarian organization. Visit www.worldvision.org.
Police Officer Prays Every Day At The Flagpole For Students
40-year-old school resource officer DeAndra Warren every morning as he prays in front of the school’s flagpole. The officer’s 21-year-old daughter took a snapshot of Warren bowing his head in front of the flagpole in his uniform. “Often you don’t see an officer on school grounds at the flagpole praying for our children!” her caption read. “I know this amazing Man of God who prays for our school systems, your children, and our community every day faithfully!” Since 2015, Warren has walked the halls of Wynne’s primary and junior high school to protect and pray over nearly 600 kids in each building. Warren can often be found interacting with the students as well, such as reading books to them or climbing around on the jungle gym. “To see kids’ faces light up when I give them a high five, and I’m just trying to show them a positive light…the positive side of law enforcement,” said Officer Warren.
“If my people, which are called by name, humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will heal their land.” These words from Chronicles 7:14 guide
Expiration: 4/30/2020
Expiration: 4/30/2020
Page 17 • christianvoicemonthly.com • April 2020
Ruskin Christian School Celebrates 50 Years; Accreditation Milestone
By Nick Nahas
Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (FACCS), RCS also earned two national accreditations with the AdvancED (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools) and Middle State Association of Colleges and Schools. Ruskin Christian School celebrates its “I’ve been blessed 50-year anniversary. to be here for the Ruskin Christian School (RCS) has past 16 years and honored to lead to the reached a new milestone with the 2019school through its growth and accredita20 school year. This year marks the 50th tion milestones,” said Vanderveer. “When anniversary of the school’s existence. I met with Pastor Barry Rumsey 16 years “The milestone is a testament to our ago to discuss the plans for the school, community of God’s blessings on this earning accreditation was part of the ministry,” said School Administrator Tim future plans for the school.” Vanderveer. “Our goal is to provide stuAccording to the school’s mission dents with a biblical worldview education statement, Ruskin Christian School exists that will prepare them to be a godly to teach biblical values in a Christ-cenexample as a Christ follower, serving our tered environment to assist the home and community, nation and world. We want to church in its endeavor to “Train up a child provide each child an opportunity for aca- in the way he should go...” (Proverbs demic achievement, spiritual growth and 22:6) by providing each student with the social development.” opportunity for academic achievement, According to Vanderveer, the school spiritual growth and social development. has placed 50-year logos around campus Ruskin’s vision is to provide an to remind students and parents of its exceptional school experience with acalegacy of the past half-century. The demic excellence which fosters Christian school has grown over the years, with character and a biblical worldview, comits annual enrollment plementing the family and the church. consistently being between 275-290 stu“Our students will grow in the knowldents. Its 50-year anniversary also includ- edge of God through our Lord and Savior ed another milestone, as it relates Jesus Christ in order to serve our comto the school accreditation. In addition to munity, nation and world,” said earning recertification with the Florida Vanderveer.
Assisted Living “Tessera Brandon… Living your lifestyle.” • Active contemporary style living • Spacious apartments • All day dining from 7am to 7pm with a bountiful variety of choices • Pet friendly • Educational and social opportunities • Cable and Wi-Fi included • Live entertainment from Bach to Big Band • “Wine down” Wednesdays
Love Being Outdoors? Protect Your Skin All Year
Staff Report
Average conditions, temperatures in such as the Tampa Bay eczema, area can range rosacea, dry anywhere from skin, rashes, highs in the 70s warts and to mid-90s most more, with the days during the latest technomonths of March logical through options. November. The Medical sunny and Director Dr. Florida Dermatology and Skin Cancer Centers favorable yearoffers free skin cancer screenings in Gibsonton. K. Wade round conditions Foster is also experienced in our fellowship-trained area can create quite in Mohs surgery, a recipe for too much the most effective exposure to ultraviolet technique for (UV) light, thus causing a lot of peomost types of skin cancers with miniple to have significant sun damage. mal scarring or risk. Unfortunately, sun damage can lead FLDSCC Apollo Beach is currentto skin cancer and a whole host of ly offering free skin cancer screenings other issues. to new patients. An annual skin exam Skin cancer, such as melanoma, can help identify suspicious growths, can appear at any time in a person’s moles and other dermatologic life, and the risk increases as you changes. Areas of the skin that are age. The good news, though, is that if exposed to the sun are more prone to it’s detected early, it’s almost always develop moles or certain growths, treatable. and because of this, it’s very imporWith more than 9,500 people in tant to have an experienced dermatolthe U.S. given a new skin cancer ogist or licensed medical professional diagnosis every day, Florida conduct a yearly body analysis to Dermatology and Skin Cancer check all areas of your body, includCenters (FLDSCC) makes an impact ing your scalp, neck and back. with its new office in Apollo Beach, Contact FLDSCC today for your offering a full spectrum of dermatolnext free skin cancer screening. FLDogy and skin care services. With an SCC Apollo Beach is located at expert team of physicians, APRNs 13145 Kings Lake Dr., #104 in and PAs, FLDSCC diagnoses and Gibsonton. You can also reach the treats skin cancers as well as skin new office by calling 741-3376.
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Page 18 • christianvoicemonthly.com • April 2020
Live Like You Mean It Deciding For Faith When The
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Rosslyn Chapel - Scotland
One of the most extraordinary structures in Scotland is the Rosslyn Chapel. This amazing building has been in the ownership of the Sinclair family since it was founded in 1446 and is still used as a place of worship. This historical treasure is also shrouded in mystery and legend. Its unusual architecture, elaborate carvings and statues as well as the belief that it may have housed the Holy Grail has attracted thousands of visitors from around the world. Its mysterious history dates back to its origins when it was initially founded as a Roman Catholic Church. The original carvings and statues still exist today thanks to continued preservation efforts. There are also several burial sites as well as the infamous underground crypts. The intricate and elaborate carvings can be seen everywhere. The exterior is just as impressive and includes flying buttresses, carved corbels, canopies and niches. However, it is the chapel’s potential for hidden messages and secrets that has created many mysterious legends. The Rosslyn Chapel and the Da
Vinci Code are synonymous thanks to the popularity of the 2006 film. The movie Da Vinci Code put Rosslyn Chapel on the map. Prior to the movie’s release, the chapel hosted 30,000 visitors a year. However, due to the movie’s enormous success, more than 176,000 visitors make their way to Rosslyn Chapel annually. Many of the scenes in the movie were filmed on-site. One of the legends depicted tells of the Holy Grail and link to the Knights Templar. One legend is that a member of the Sinclair family voyaged to North America long before Columbus. The carving depicts North American maize (corn), which was unknown in Europe at the time the chapel was built. This corn carving has supported the legend that Henry Sinclair made a voyage to the Americas almost a century before Columbus set sail. Another persistent legend revolves around the Sinclair family vault, which lies under the rear of the Chapel. The sealed vault is said to contain the Holy Grail, a Templar treasure, the original Crown Jewels of Scotland or the mummified head of Jesus. Consider making a trip to see the beauty and mystery surround Rosslyn Chapel. Tours cost $12 are conducted every day of the year except December 24 and 25 and January 1. For more information, visit www.rosslynchapel.com.
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By Derek MaulWorld Sometimes life is difficult. Family involves real challenges; people we care about seem remote, work can be overwhelming, grandchildren are too far away to hug and encourage, people are unreasonable, global threats spread with exponential inevitability and when the fragile knife-edge of confidence that holds it all together is compromised, it is easy to feel as if our foundation is undone too. Most of all, we feel powerless to do what needs to be done or change what needs to be changed, and we face days sometimes that threaten to spin relentlessly toward our fears and confirm our anxieties. Welcome to 2020, where the new normal is troubling and we are unsettled too. “Thanks a lot!” I hear you saying. “What made you think we needed to read that today!” Well, this is where Psalm 46 comes to mind. “God is our refuge and strength, a help always near in times of great trouble. That’s why we won’t be afraid when the world falls apart…” If ever we need a good dose of perspective, it is in this climate—global, cultural, spiritual, political. We believe we need to see situations resolved right away, but reality seldom looks like that.
Overwhelms Us Don’t misunderstand, I want to see everything that is causing me anxiety to quickly resolve; I do not like to carry burdens, to wake up in the morning with something gnawing at my gut, to wonder with so much uncertainty. But at the same time, I have to understand that time is not only the great healer, it is a necessary ingredient of effective change. So what to do in the meanwhile? How do we move from paralysis to peace, from fear to fulfillment and from trouble to triumph? The answer is belief, the deliberate, intentional choice to believe. The grasping at then holding onto faith. Psalm 46 continues: “Nations roar; kingdoms crumble. God utters his voice; the earth melts. The Lord of heavenly forces is with us! The God of Jacob is our place of safety.” Peace—in every way—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
Page 19 • christianvoicemonthly.com • April 2020
Page 20 • christianvoicemonthly.com • April 2020
March 2013
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Page 1
Special Section, More Inside!
Fun And Education At Busch Gardens And Adventure Island Summer Camps What could be more fun than spending the summer at one of the area’s most famous attractions? Starting in June, Busch Gardens and Adventure Islands are offering summer camps for students with a sense of adventure and fun. According to Rebecca Romzek, public relations and communications leader with Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island, camps are available for students from kindergarten to those heading to college. “This year, Florida’s best thrill rides and breathtaking up-close animal encounters make Busch Gardens Tampa Bay the fan favorite choice for summer camp,” said Romzek. “Campers at Busch Gardens explore inspiring, exciting and educational experiences with immersive, multi-day camp programs for all interests.” Camps, both day and residential, run weekly from June to August and offer students a wide variety of fun and educational options with the choice of signing up for three or five days at a time. “Camp is all about making memories
Staff Report
At Busch Gardens and Adventure Islands’ summer camps, students learn while getting to enjoy all the parks have to offer.
with new friends while enjoying thrilling rides and world-class shows that can only be found at our parks,” said Romzek. “Come face-to-face with a giraffe or take on all-new attractions opening this spring. Spin and splash on Solar Vortex, America’s first dual tailspin water slide at Adventure Island, or take on Iron Gwazi, North America’s tallest hybrid coaster and the fastest and steepest hybrid coaster in the world at Busch Gardens.” Campers can explore even more with complimentary admission into the park each day following camp. Space is limited, so Romzek encourages residents to register today at www.buschgardens.com/tampa/summercamps.
A Great Array Of Creative Summer Camps Offered At The Patel Conservatory
By Kathy L. Collins
Spend your summer learning all about musical theater, dance, improv and more. The Patel Conservatory has a wide array of choices and would make a great option for people of all ages and abilities.
The Patel Conservatory, located at the David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts (Straz Center) in downtown Tampa, is offering a unique set of summer camp options. This includes, but is not limited to, Acting Camp with three productions, such as Galactic Battles, Myths and Legends and Within the Wizarding World. There is an afternoon enrichment class available. You can also choose to attend Improv Camp: ComedySportz or Making Movies and Music. Into musical theater? You can select from three Mini Musical Theater productions, featuring Backyard Beats, Troll Time Live! and Octo Exploration. There are 10 Musical Theater Camps as well, featuring Broadway Rocks!,
Broadway Today, Kids on Broadway, Magic and Muggles, Mystery and Mayhem, On The High C's, Patel's Got Talent, Remake Remix, Spooktacular Tunes and Wiz-O-Mania. You can also take part in camps featuring vocal musical instruments, dance and more. Suzanne Livesay, the Straz Center's vice president of education, said, "Patel Conservatory camps are worth the drive to downtown. Our camps are not only fun but also provide excellent training in the performing arts, which develops confidence, creates camaraderie and engages creativity. The term 'conservatory' can be a little intimidating, but do not let it prevent you from exploring the many camps we offer for all ages and abilities." Livesay added, "Our camps develop participants' performing arts skills at a variety of levels and always conclude with some form of showcase where campers demonstrate what they have learned throughout the session." The Patel Conservatory has been offering summer camp for the past 15 years. Each year, it averages approximately 1,200 campers. The Conservatory offers scholarships and the deadline is Monday, April 13. To apply, visit strazcenter.org/financialaid. For more info, please visit patelconservatory.org.
Camp High 5 At BSAC Offers A Summer Of Fun For Children In The Community
Kids Step Into Their Favorite Stories At Performing Arts Summer Camps
Brandon Sports or program available and Aquatic Center for everyone and it (BSAC) will have works hard to provide the opportunity for low income families area children to with the opportunity to attend Camp High 5 participate on scholarat BSAC this sumship. “We offer scholmer. arships year-round,” “Camp High 5 Paruas said. “We at BSAC program is have scholarships going to be aweavailable for every some,” said BSAC’s This summer, children fwill have the opportu- program, from nity to attend Camp High 5 at BSAC. director of youth camps, swimming programming, Nicole lessons to dive team.” Paruas. “Our summer Camp High 5 is in the camps, as well as all our process of finalizing its sumprograms, let kids be kids and have fun. mer camp program. “We are finalizing our The support staff we have for our camps new camp website, so families can begin are awesome and they make our camps registering for our camps very soon,” and programs very enriching for everyone Paruas said. “This year’s summer camps who attends.” are going to have weekly themes, offer The Brandon Sports and Aquatic field trips and so much more, all while Center is a community-based nonprofit making an impact on the lives of our organization. Its mission is to impact lives campers.” daily through superior educational and Proposed field trips include Sky athletic programming that enhances Zone, a Rays game, Astro Skate, Tampa physical, mental and spiritual well-being. Zoo and trips to local slash park pads. To BSAC focuses on four main pillars of learn more about Camp High 5 and the service: after-school care, youth drowning fun summer camps it will be offering this prevention, sports and recreation as well summer, you can visit www.mybsac.org as special needs education. or call 689-0908. BSAC is located at 405 BSAC goes above and beyond tradi- Beverly Dr. in Brandon. The hours of tional programming to make a real impact operation are weekdays, 8 a.m.-7 p.m., in the lives of children who attend any of Saturdays from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. and it is its programs or camps. There is a sport closed on Sundays.
As summer available for your quickly approachconvenience. es and the school Have a child year ends, that wants to rock thoughts of sumout this summer? mer camp regis‘Rockin’ with tration might Alex’ is a come to mind. summer rock Budding thespiband proans or just a child FAOPA’s summer camps offer children the gram with who likes to enter- chance to step into the role of a character camps geared for all from one of their favorite stories. tain will enjoy The experience levels. Florida Academy of the Performing Arts at Director Debbie Evans said these Music Showcase’s (FAOPA) two types of programs offer children an outlet for summer camps for children ages 5 and expressing themselves and learning older. about emotions and public speaking. Located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in “Whether it’s for a career in the arts or Brandon, FAOPA offers two-week, halfjust for having fun, music and musical day musical theater camps, from 9 a.m.-1 theater are great ways for children to gain p.m., that are structured by age, ability, self-confidence,” she said. interests and progress and feature live Valrico resident Julie Howard’s three productions at the end. daughters, Lily (13), Addison (10) and In past years, shows have included Rachael (8), have all participated in the Willy Wonka, Mamma Mia, Matilda, academy’s summer programs including Seussical, Elf and Les Mis. The Lion King and Willy Wonka. The second type offered are the Music Showcase Owner Heather Music and More Camps, which are fullOchalek said the benefits to an arts eduday weeklong camps, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., cation can be seen in improved academic during select weeks. Campers will learn performance and increased self-esteem. to play instruments like drums, ukuleles “From our private lessons, rock band, and guitars. They can also learn to sing, string ensembles and musical theater to act, paint/make art, dance and more. The workshops and master classes, our two camp options can be combined to classes can spark creativity and innovacreate an entire day of fun and learning. tion,” she said. For further details, visit Free early drop-off and late pickup is FAOPA.org or call 490-2787.
By Libby Hopkins
By Michelle Caceres
Soccer Fun For Boys and Girls
The Florida Hawks Futbol Club has fun and educational camps for local soccer lovers. The club is driven to develop great people by building the skill and character of its players on and off the field. Soccer Fun with Coach Juan will take place Saturday to Wednesday, July 6-10 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for girls and boys born between 2008 and 2013. It will feature age-appropriate technical and tactical instruction from a professional coaching staff with smallsided games and daily 5 v 5, soccer tennis and soccer golf competitions. Visit www.floridahawksfc.com to sign up or learn more.
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 will 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 6-11 will take place from 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. daily and the tweens’ and teens’ 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 1 through Thursday, August 6. Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium is located at Brandon Crossroads, 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon. Call 653-2418 or visit www.rollingpinonline.com.
Straz Center Hosts Patel Conservatory Performing Arts Camps
The Patel Conservatory, located at the David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts (Straz Center) in downtown Tampa, is offering a unique set of summer camp options from acting to vocal musical instruments, dance and more. The Patel Conservatory has been offering summer camp for the past 15 years. Each year, it averages approximately 1,200 campers. Camps are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, so signing up early is strongly encouraged. The Patel Conservatory offers scholarships for summer camp. You must apply, and the deadline is Monday, April 13. Please apply for a scholarship by visiting strazcenter.org/financialaid. For more information on all that the Patel Conservatory has to offer this summer, please visit patelconservatory.org.
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 build-
ing 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. Sign up at www.bricks4kidz.com/florida-tampa or call 545-4282.
Swimming To Horseback Riding And More At Local YMCA Camps
The Tampa Metropolitan YMCA summer camps are well known for offering something for every child. With multiple locations offering daily activities including swimming, science, high ropes, outdoor education, nature encounters, horseback riding, canoeing, visual arts and more the Y camps
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are always a local favorite with boys and girls alike! In addition to a traditional camp called Activity Central, the YMCA offers specialty camps such as basketball, equestrian, extreme team, gymnastics, leadership, soccer, swimming, visual arts, science and performing arts to name a few. Spots are filling fast with area locations including Brandon, Valrico, Riverview and SouthShore. To ensure your kids stay engaged socially, physically and academically throughout the summer, register today at www.tampaymca.org/letscamp.
Summer Fun at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay And Adventure Island
This year, Florida’s best thrill rides and breathtaking upclose animal encounters make Busch Gardens Tampa Bay the fan favorite choice for summer camp. From kindergarten to college-bound, campers at Busch Gardens will explore inspiring,
KIDS
Summer Camps (Ages 6-11) 10:30am - 1:00pm
exciting and educational experiences with immersive, multi-day camp programs for all interests. Camp is all about making memories with new friends while enjoying thrilling rides and worldclass shows that can only be found at its parks. Come face-to-face with a giraffe or take on all-new attractions opening this spring. Spin and splash on Solar Vortex, America’s first dual tailspin water slide at Adventure Island, or take on Iron Gwazi, North America’s tallest hybrid coaster and the fastest and steepest hybrid coaster in the world at Busch Gardens. Campers can explore even more with complimentary admission into the park each day following camp. Weekly offerings vary by camp but run from June to August with three and five-day camps with an overnight option available. Camps are open to students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Space is limited. To register today, visit https://buschgardens.com/tampa/summer-camps/.
Fun And Education Spins Throughout The Summer At Kids ‘R’ Kids
Kids ‘R’ Kids is excited to launch a
June 1 - 4 June 8 - 11 June 15 - 18 June 22 - 25 June 29 - July 2 July 6 - 10 July 13 - 16 July 20 - 23 July 27 - 30 August 3-6
TWEEN’S & TEENS
Summer Camps (Ages 11-15) 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Brandon’s Big Green “EggQuarters”
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 spin this summer into a unique dimension of discovery, fun and friendships through various weekly themes. This summer promises a well-supervised, engaging and enriching camp for preschool and elementary-aged children. Extended hours, meals/snacks, weekly field trips, sports and more are available. Summer camp is offered at both Kids ‘R’ Kids locations: Circa FishHawk on 5815 Kids Crossing Dr. (next to Stowers Elementary and Mosaic), visit www.KRKCirca.com or call 654-7000, and at 4321 Lynx Paw Trl. in Valrico (across from Lithia Springs Elementary), visit www.KRKValrico.com or call 6576200.
BSAC Offers Field Trips, Swimming And More
The Brandon Sports and Aquatics Center (BSAC) is offering Camp High Five this summer, using superior educational and athletic programming to enhance students’ physical, mental and spiritual well-being. Camps will have weekly themes,
offering field trips to locations including SkyZone, a Tampa Bay baseball game, Lowry Park Zoo and local splash park pads. To learn more about Camp High Five and the fun summer camps it will be offering this summer, visit www.mybsac.org or call 689-0908. BSAC is located at 405 Beverly Dr. in Brandon. The hours of operation are weekdays from 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturdays from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. and it is closed on Sundays.
Music and Acting Camps Offered Through Music Showcase
Budding thespians or just children who like to entertain will enjoy The Florida Academy of the Performing Arts at Music Showcase’s (FAOPA) two types of summer camps for children ages 5 and older. Located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon, FAOPA offers two-week, halfday musical theater camps, from 9
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a.m.-1 p.m., that are structured by age, ability, interests and progress and feature live productions at the end. Parents will enjoy watching their children bring the musical to life in the auditorium, which is equipped with a professional sound and lighting system, costumes, props and set design. The second type offered are the Music and More Camps, which are full-day weeklong camps, from 9 a.m.5 p.m., during select weeks. Campers will learn to play instruments like drums, ukuleles and guitars. They can also learn to sing, act, paint/make art, dance and more. The two camp options can be combined to create an entire day of fun and learning. Free early drop-off and late pickup is available for your convenience. For more information about summer camps or any of FAOPA’s other programs, visit FAOPA.org or call 4902787.
Combat Dreaded Summer Slide With Mathnasium Of Brandon
Mathnasium Brandon offers a variety of ways students can power up their math skills and have fun this summer. From mini camps to summer
sessions, there is something for every student. There are two options for mini camps, which run from Monday, June 1 through Friday, July 31. Students can either do the traditional Camp Mathnasium or STEM Camp, which includes additional fun such as robotics, LEGO Mindstorm EV3, experiments and pizza parties. Summer sessions, where students attend 13 times during the first nine weeks of summer, start on June 1. Students can also sign up for Summer Power Math Workout Programs, which include Numerical Fluency, Multiplication Fact Fluency, Problem-Solving, Algebra and Geometry Readiness and SAT/ACT Workshops. Fun in the Mathnasium Sun will also offer weekly attendance contests, game time, Fun Fridays, chess club, summer bingo and movie nights. Experts say that the effects of a summer learning program, such as Mathnasium’s, will make a positive difference for students moving forward. Call 655-MATH (6284) or visit www.mathnasium.com/brandon/. Mathnasium of Brandon is located at 1048 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico (Plaza Bella shopping center).
Mathnasium of Riverview Is Ready For Math Fun
Give your child the benefit of a personalized math learning plan and confidence building to help strengthen their skills in a classroom setting. Summer time is ideal for having fun and at Mathnasium of Riverview, that is understood and a comprehensive summer math program has been put together that makes math sense and kids have fun doing so. The programs range from helping to stop finger counting to Calculus. Summer is a perfect, no-stress time to stay in tune with math. With Mathnasium being the ‘Math’ in STEM, Mathnasium knows how to teach math. Located at 11446 US-301, Riverview, FL 512-7007. www.mathnasium.com/riverview Facebook @Mathnasium of Riverview or email riverview@mathnasium.com
Power Up With Mathnasium Of West Brandon
Kids can power up this summer with Mathnasium of West Brandon
in-center or through its Mathnasium @home online tutoring program. 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. “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,” suggested Jill Andrews, center director at Mathnasium of West Brandon. 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, problemsolving, algebra readiness, geometry readiness and so much more based on a diagnostic assessment of the student. Call 333-6676 or visit
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www.mathnasium.com/westbrandon to schedule your student’s free assessment and get started at your neighborhood center or at home with the Mathnasium @home program and help your student Power Up this summer! Mathnasium of West Brandon summer hours will be MondayThursday from 2-7 p.m. It is located at 10268 Causeway Blvd. in Tampa.
Center Place Fine Arts Offer Summer Art Camp To Brighten The Day
Who knew that art could be so much fun? This summer, register your 7 to 13year-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, 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.
Sports Fun At The MAC
The MAC Gym in Brandon is offering basketball, volleyball and soccer camps in June and July. The basketball camps are open for 7 to 14-year-olds, soccer is available for 7 to 12-yearolds and volleyball, which has both co-ed and girls camps, is available for 8 to 14-year-olds. There will also be a basketball camp from Monday to Friday, July 27-31 for 10 to 14-yearolds. The camps run from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and lunch is available to purchase, or campers may bring their own from home. An email will be sent on the weekend before camp with details. Camps fill up fast! Registration forms for MAC summer sports camps can be picked up at the MAC front desk or downloaded online. Form and registration fees may be dropped off at the MAC front desk. To learn more or to get the registration form, visit https://themac gym.org/summer-sports-camps/. MAC is located at 216 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon and can be reached at 315-3280. Editor’s Note: Please note dates and details of all camps are subect to change.
YMCA Offers Fun And Exciting Summer Camps At 16 Tampa Bay Locations
By Libby Hopkins
Tampa YMCA is hosting a summer full of great camps for children.
Summer is just a few short months away, but the YMCA is already gearing up for months full of fun camps. “We offer children a day camp curriculum full of fun, educational activities,” said Lalita Llerena, senior communications director for the Tampa Metropolitan YMCA. “Activity specialists lead campers through various unique experiences each day, including swimming, science, high ropes, outdoor education, nature encounters, horseback riding, canoeing, visual arts and more. These 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 the YMCA summer camp, children are in a welcoming environment where they can feel like they belong, build relationships, develop character and discover their potential. “In addition to a traditional
day camp called ‘Activity Central,’ the YMCA offers specialty camps such as basketball, equestrian, extreme team, gymnastics, leadership, soccer, swimming, visual arts, science and performing arts, to name a few,” Llerena said. “Parents have the option to add on before and after-care activities, which include swimming, horseback riding, sports and high ropes. Activities and specialty options vary by location.” The YMCA’s goal for its summer camps is to make all who attend happy. “We guarantee an exciting summer filled with lots of memorable moments,” Llerena said. “Our camp staff members are kind, trustworthy individuals committed to creating a safe place for campers to practice social skills and character values.” “Some kids can experience learning loss and gain weight twice as fast than during the school year,” Llerena said. “That’s why the Tampa YMCA offers summer camp, to make sure kids and teens in the Tampa Bay area are adventurous, active and healthy this summer.” Spots are filling up fast at 16 locations across Hillsborough and East Pasco Counties. To ensure your kids stay engaged socially, physically and academically throughout the summer, register today at www.tampaymca.org/letscamp.
Tampa Kids Camp To Host Benefit Dinner With Special Keynote Speaker
By Amanda Boston
Editor’s Note: “Children have the Please contact opportunity to be organization for ‘normal kids’ for a update due to week in a structured, COVID-19 CCD healing environrecommendations. ment.” Tampa Kids Camp With a ratio of exists to make the one adult to one lives of foster chilchild, campers dren better through receive extra attenlife-changing sumtion and the ‘royal mer camps. This treatment’ in a safe summer, the nonThe campers come from backgrounds of and caring environabuse, neglect and abandonment. profit will host two ment. Counselors camps for foster children ages 6-15 who demonstrate unconditional love while have experienced abuse, abandonment helping to create positive memories and or neglect. building self-worth. The 100 percent volunteer-operated The ‘Royal Family KIDS Camp’ is for camps are free to the campers. To raise children ages 6-11. The weeklong funds and awareness, Tampa Kids Camp overnight camp will be held from June 15will hold a benefit dinner at The Regent in 19. Along with traditional camp activities, Riverview on Thursday, March 26 at 6:30 the week will include a carnival, birthday p.m. The dinner will feature a silent aucbash, waterworks and much more. tion and a keynote speaker. Loryn Smith, The ‘Royal Teen Camp’ is for ages M.S.W., the owner and CEO of Finally 12-15 with two separate sessions. The Home Christian Adoption Services, has boys’ camp will be held from Thursday to the keynote speaker honors. Saturday, July 9-11 and the girls’ camp Smith, a mother of 20 children of from Monday to Wednesday, July 13-15. which 13 are adopted, will speak about To find out more or to volunteer, her 30 plus years of experience in the visit www.TampaKidsCamp.org. child welfare system. More information on Tickets to the benefit dinner may also Smith and her adoption agency can be be purchased online. found at www.finallyhomecas.com. Corporate sponsorships are also Smith has also been a camp theraavailable. For any questions, email pist and said this regarding the camp, camp@tampakidscamp.org.
“Soccer Fun with Coach Juan”
Boys and Girls
born between 2013 and 2008 July 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 2020 9.00 am to 1.00 pm
D E N
D O B P ET
T S DAT
O P NEW
Soccer Fields of the FishHawk Sports Complex Lithia FL
Your child must bring: • Readiness to have a lot of fun playing soccer • Cleats, shin guards, and a ball • Snack • Water bottle
$195.00 if registered before April 15, 2020 $215.00 if registered after April 15, 2020 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
April 2020
ChristianVoice Monthly
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