Osprey Observer Christian Voice Monthly

Vol. 25| Iss. 5| May 2021

15 15

15TH ANNUAL FAMILY CAR SHOW AND CRAFT FAIR AT BAY LIFE CHURCH IS BETTER THAN EVER

By Staff Report

02

The 15th annual Bay Life Car Show and Craft Fair will take place on Saturday, May 29.

2

16 New Album 16 Columns: Grace Notes: Hooked On Books: Faith & Footprints: News From The Wire:

04 09 15 16

Car lovers, mark your calendars. The annual Bay Life Car Show and Craft Fair is back and better than ever.

The 15th annual car show, to take place at Bay Life Church, will kick off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 29 and is open to the public with more than 500 show vehicles from around the state.

Classics, hot rods, full custom vehicles, military vehicles, muscle cars, exotics, trucks and more on the shaded property will set up for a fun day for the whole family.

“The Bay Life car show originally began as a community outreach to do something fun and involve our local car aficionados,” said Bay Life Church’s communications director, Stephen Stough. “Steve Hardy, the longtime Bay Life maintenance supervisor, took the initiative to organize our first event.” Over the years, other Bay Life members got involved and the event grew into a fundraiser for the church’s missions.

In addition to the cars, guests will have the opportunity to purchase affordable food and shop at a full craft show with more than 50 vendors, including many offering auto-related items.

After a special opening celebration with a color guard and the national anthem to honor the USA, fun for the whole family will include a DJ, a live band, a 50/50 drawing, games and events just for the

kids and more than 70 trophies to be awarded in many categories.

Admission is free. Show car owners are encouraged to provide a voluntary $10 donation, with every penny from this event benefiting Bay Life Church missions.

“Bay Life Church missions and student ministries send several trips throughout the U.S. and internationally to support our mission partners,” Stough said. “Every penny raised from food and beverage sales, raffles and donations goes to support Bay Life global missions.”

You can preregister and see past event photos, property map and more at www.baylife.org/ carshow. To learn more, contact Steve Schumm at sschumm@ baylife.org or visit www.baylife.org/carshow. To learn about the missions at Bay Life Church, please visit www.baylife.org/missions. Bay Life Church is located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon.

MANNA ON WHEELS KEEPS ROLLING, FEEDING THE NEEDY, VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

By Kelly Wise Valdes

In 2006, Buddy Bass and his wife, Jane Bass, started Manna on Wheels (MOW), a mobile kitchen ministry that provides a hot meal to families, children and people in need in Dover and the surrounding areas. The goal of their nonprofit organization is to show people the love of Jesus.

When they first began this faith-based feeding ministry, they were feeding the homeless in the parking lot of a church in Brandon and hosting weekly Bible studies. At one point, they were feeding nearly 700 people each week and sharing the Gospel. “Our passion is to serve,” Buddy and Jane Bass started Manna on Wheels (MOW) in 2006 in order to feed the hungry and spread the word of God’s love. MOW is actively seeking volunteers to assist for one day a said Jane. “We not only want to month with its feeding ministry. feed the body, but we also want to feed the soul.” istry Support Association (AMSA) of Florida. This is Because of COVID-19, MOW was unable to operate a group of about 100 missionaries that participate many of its outreaches last year. The goal this year each year at the SUN ‘n FUN and Buddy volunteers to is to feed smaller groups of people while continuing cook and provide meals for the missionaries with the to share God’s love. In addition, MOW has been ren- mobile Manna on Wheels kitchen. ovating its kitchen on wheels and is excited to start MOW is actively seeking new volunteers to help heading out with the new kitchen to serve meals. serve in the community. “We are looking for people In April, MOW set up its mobile kitchen at the SUN to lead a crew of five to six people each to commit ‘n FUN Lakeland Airshow to cook for Aviation Min- to one day each month to feeding the hungry,” said

Jane. “Our goal is to have five crews to cover one day a month.”

If you are interested in helping organize a food drive or becoming a monthly supporter of Manna on Wheels, all donations to the 501(c) (3) ministry are tax-deductible. If you are a student in need of volunteer or community service hours, MOW is an available resource.

For more information, visit www. mannaonwheels. org. If interested in volunteering, please contact Buddy at 767-5708 or email Jane at jbass@ mannaonwheels. org.

Page 2

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

May 2021

Volume 25 | Issue 05

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

FAITH-BASED PAINTING CLASSES

By Libby Hopkins

Lori Dowe reable to paint cently arrived and being in the Brandon able to paint area. She is bewell enough coming known in to teach other the Brandon art people,” Dowe community for said. “I also her faith-inspired love being painting classes. able to share “I took art classthe message es in high school of God with Lori Dowe is the owner of Art & Ministry, which is a and college. I faith-based painting ministry here in Brandon. If you’d my students did a lot of set like to learn more about Dowe’s ministry or if you’d like while we are painting back for her to come to your church and teach an art class, visit painting. This then as well,” her website at www.artandministry.com or call Dowe at is where my 801-577-9779.

Dowe said. “I true inspirahad my own thetion comes ater company too at one from for my paintings.” point. I stepped away from Dowe is a member of the art for a while to have my Brandon League of Fine children, but it wasn’t until Arts and she recently beI moved to California and came involved with Censtarted studying art with ter Place Fine Arts & CivTony Goodwin and he was ic Association. “I’m going really a great mentor who to be offering a ‘Dad and taught me a lot about the Me’ painting class at Cenold master style of paintter Place Fine Arts & Civing.” ic Association in June for Dowe became involved in Goodwin’s Father’s Day,” Dowe said. “I think this will faith and paint classes and when Good- be an awesome event for dads and their win’s health began to decline, she took over children to come and enjoy.” his faith and paint classes. “This is how our Dowe’s Dad and Me Art Class will be ministry got started,” Dowe said. She is held at Center Place on Sunday, June 13 the owner of Art & Ministry in Brandon, from 1-3 p.m. The class cost will be $40 which is a faith-based painting program. for a father and child. Additional children For Dowe, it is more about the message will be $10 each. Painting supplies, light than the painting when it comes to her snacks and refreshments are included with painting ministry. “I’m a true believer that the class price for this event. If you’d like everything happens for a reason and for to register for the Dad and Me Art Class them being in the class,” Dowe said. “It’s at Center Place, please call Center Place at the message they need to hear.”

685-8888.

Dowe takes a Bible verse or a devotion If you’d like to learn more about Dowe’s and bases the painting for her class around ministry or if you’d like for her to come to it. She feels truly blessed to be able to your church and teach an art class, you share her God-given gift of painting with can visit her website at www.artandminher students. “I feel truly blessed to be istry.com or call Dowe at 801-577-9779.

Page 3

HOLY YOGA FOCUSES ON THE MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT

By Libby Hopkins

Holy Yoga is one of the new that she classes being offered at Center and EliPlace Fine Arts and Civic Assoza were ciation in Brandon. It’s taught able to by the mother-daughter duo of b r i n g Cassie and Eliza McClelland and t h e i r their wellness business is called H o l y Well Root Wellness. “Holy Yoga Y o g a is something I became interestclass to ed in and wanted to start doing Center Holy Yoga is one of the new classes being after I did a lot of research on offered at Center Place Fine Arts and Civic P l a c e .

Association in Brandon. it and how the practice relates “My husto Christ,” said Cassie. “I b a n d suggested to Eliza she try owns a pressure washHoly Yoga to help her with ing business called some health issues. She Well Rooted Mainteliked it and decided to get nance and he pressure certified as a Holy Yoga inwashed Center Place,” structor as well.”

Cassie said. “He told Holy Yoga embraces the the executive director essential elements of yoga: of Center Place about breath work, meditation our program and she and physical postures. In met with us, loved our all of these elements, Christ is the focus program, so now we are a part of Center of our intention and worship. Holy Yoga Place.” is the intentional practice of connecting Well Rooted Wellness offers two yoga our entire being with God. When one classes at Center Place twice a month breathes, moves and finds their ground- on Saturdays. Holy Yoga Flow is offered ing in Christ, they find themselves in the from 8-9 a.m. and a class costs $20. Haflow of God’s magnificence and experi- tha Yoga Flow is offered from 10-11 a.m. ence a divine transformation. and that class costs $20 as well. “The The McClellands began offering Holy classes are for all levels of yoga,” Cassie Yoga classes in Plant City, but they had said. “You can be a beginner or a regular only taught one class when the COVID-19 yogi and still be able to do either one of pandemic hit and they had to cancel their our classes.” program. “We decided to offer a free If you would like to attend either one Holy Yoga class in our front yard to any- of Well Rooted Wellness’s yoga classes one who wanted to come and practice,” at Center Place Fine Arts and Civic AssoCassie said. “We had a few people join us ciation, please call Center Place at 685on the weekends and it was a lot of fun, 8888 to register for a class. Classes are but it was difficult to have if the weather capped at 10 students and social distancdidn’t cooperate. ing is enforced. Center Place is located at It was through Cassie’s husband, Rhett, 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon.

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Page 4

Grace Notes The Real Deal

By Debora Coty

Have you ever pondered, “Who am I, really?”

Like jigsaw puzzles, pieces of us are borrowed from people we admire— our heroes, teachers and role models.

Some pieces are inherited from our parents, for better or worse. Other pieces we painstakingly forge for ourselves from the steel of experience.

All the pieces fit together to form the person our Creator intended us to be. Now we just have to figure out who that person is and how they can best further God’s kingdom.

“I have become all things to all people so that … I might save some,” - (1 Corinthians 9:22, NIV).

It’s tricky, because like the Apostle Paul, who penned this verse and appears to have grappled with authenticity just like we do, we tend to be chameleons. When we’re with one group of people, we act a certain way; with another group we behave differently.

Now, personality morphing for the sake of the Gospel isn’t a bad thing, it just makes finding the real ‘you’ more challenging. And the person you think

you are is not usually the person others see.

Our private selves don’t always match our public personas.

I’ve come to realize it’s not our public actions that make us who we are in Christ. Not the ability to speak eloquently, pray artfully or sing like a nightingale. Not leading a Bible study or evangelizing thousands or volunteering in the church nursery for 30 weeks in a row.

We might appear like a towering cedar of Lebanon but have a shallow root system that yields to the next stiff wind. We can all name faith leaders who’ve toppled.

It’s our roots that count, not the leaves on our branches.

Who we are in private produces who we are in public, encompassing integrity, commitment, the ‘realness’ of our worship and the genuine depth of our personal relationship with Christ.

I want to be the real deal, don’t you?

So the next time we look in the mirror and ask, “Who am I, really?”, we’ll see the reflection of Jesus.

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.

Sponsoring Teacher Of The Month:

Brandon/Valrico Riverview 689-7212 671-1919

May 2021

LOCAL MEET ME IN THE STREET MINISTRY HELPS THOSE IN NEED

By Libby Hopkins

a need, our families just need a helping hand to make ends meet. Relationship is our goal, to share Christ’s love and to serve our guests with open hearts and to share the message of salvation.”

Like most nonprofits and food pantries in the area, the pandemic had an adverse effect on them, but luckily for Meet Me In The Streets Ministry, this was not the case. “The current pandemic has not afMeet Me In The Street was established as a nonprofit organization to fected how the ministry provide needs or services regardless of financial situation or circum- runs, although we are no stances by means of weekly outreach, prepared meals, food, groceries, longer accepting donaclothing or any other means of advocacy. tions of used clothing to distribute, but have been Meet Me In The Street Ministry was supported by donations of new items like established as a nonsocks, shoes, profit organization to rain jackets provide needs or serand personvices regardless of fial items for nancial situation or cirour families,” cumstances by means Chris said. of weekly outreach, The couprepared meals, food, ple’s favorite groceries, clothing or thing about any other means of adrunning their vocacy. “The ministry ministry is started just over five building reyears ago with five pizlationships zas and we would feed with their anyone that said they volunteers wanted a meal,” said and guests.

Chris Hicks of the minThey also love istry. “Over the years, we built a volunteer seeing others feel supported and loved base and a weekly menu is sent out to evby their community. “Life changes and eryone and everyone picks an item from seeing others grow is amazing to expethe menu to provide for the dinner.” rience,” Chris said. “We hope to see the Chris and David Hicks, along with their ministry continue to partner with other ministry’s volunteers, have served more nonprofits and churches to continue to than 125 meals at two locations in the grow and support local families.”

SouthShore area every Tuesday night.

If you would like to support the minis“We also hold food drives, school supply try monetarily or volunteer on Tuesdays, drives and our big Christmas event served you can message it on its Facebook page over 300 families this year with a day of at www.facebook.com/meetmeinthesgames, treats and the children shop for treetministry or email the couple at Davtwo gifts they picked for themselves,” ejhicks@msn.com.

Chris said. “We provide for anyone with

Plant City 754-7788

• Reading • Writing • Math • SAT/ACT • Homework Edge preK -12th Grade

rt Card The Next Repo Ask about our Monthly Budget Plan r! e tt e b e b to g is goin “Creating Success by Changing Lives”

Residential • Commercial Exterior Repaint Specialists License #L20000250797

WE TAKE THE PAIN OUT OF PAINTING, AND PUT THE WO BACK IN WONDERFUL!

April Showers You in Savings!

20% OFF

(813) 723-9124 or (813) 670-8565 Full Exterior Paint Job www.tandjpaintingfl.com

Clean, Protect & Beautify The Outside Of Your Home

FREE

PHONE ESTIMATE

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Volume 25 | Issue 05

NEW HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH HOSTING MULTIPLE COMMUNITY EVENTSBy Kelly Wise Valdes Now that our communities are slowly and safely returning back to normal, New Hope United Methodist Church is happy to announce it will be hosting several church-wide events and is excited to invite the community to participate.

One of the ongoing events is the food co-op that takes place twice a month on the first and New Hope United Methodist Church in Brandon is excited to announce third Tuesday at many of its upcoming events taking place over the next several months.

9:30 a.m. The cost pastors is taking place on Sunday, May is $5 per unit and each unit will consist 16. This day is to honor and celebrate of a hefty amount of produce and a doz- the pastors at New Hope as well as a en eggs. According to Mandy New, direc- ‘welcome back to church’ event for the tor of communications, each family can community to participate in in-person order up to two units of food. “This is a worship. great opportunity for our community to Several events are taking place of come together around food and faith,” Sunday, May 23, including Graduation said New. Orders need to be submitted Sunday, when New Hope will celebrate by 11 p.m. on the Sunday prior to the graduating seniors. The student ministry food co-op date. Registration can be sub- will be taking over the worship services mitted at https://findnewhope.com.food. and people of all ages are invited to exNew Hope will also be holding Moth- perience a unique worship experience. In er’s Day services on Sunday, May 9 at 9 addition, the OneBlood Blood Mobile will a.m. and 10:30 a.m. in the main sanctu- be on-campus that same day, followed by ary. “Our Spanish-speaking congregation ‘Worship on the Lawn’ at 6 p.m. “Everywill hold their service at 11:00 a.m. in one is invited to grab a blanket or lawn Logan Hall,” said New. “All are welcome chair and join us for worship outside,” to join us as we celebrate the amazing said New. “This is the perfect opportuniwomen in our lives. We will have a photo ty to extend that invite to your neighbor opportunity in the courtyard for families or co-worker to join you for casual outto capture their special moment.” door fellowship and worship.”

On Friday, May 14, New Hope will be For those families with children, New hosting a Friday Night Courtyard Con- Hope will be holding its Vacation Bible cert at 6 p.m. with Swipe Right. “We are School from Monday, June 21 to Thursexcited to invite the Greater Brandon day, June 24 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. with community to a family-friendly evening a VBS Wrap Party Courtyard Concert filled with music and fellowship,” said on Friday, June 25 in the evening. New New. “This is a great opportunity to in- Hope United Methodist Church is located vite your friends and neighbors to a so- at 213 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon. Viscially distanced evening of great local it www.findnewhope.com or call 689music talent.” This is a free event.

4161. You can also follow the church on Celebration Sunday for New Hope its Facebook page.

W W W

Page 5

.

.

O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R

C O M

ASSOCIATED WITH OSPREY OBSERVER

7 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico, FL 33592 • (office) 657-2418 • (fax) 657-4469 MANAGING EDITOR

Marie Gilmore

657-2418

ASSIGNMENT EDITOR

Kate Quesada 657-2418

editor@ospreyobserver.com

kquesada@ospreyobserver.com

LAYOUT EDITOR

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

Kathy Collins

Kathi Hayes

657-2418

657-2418

khayes@ospreyobserver.com

kcollins@ospreyobserver.com

BILLING MANAGER

GRAPHICS MANAGER

Terry Vassalotti

Denise Graf

657-2418

657-2418

MARKETING MANAGER

Jenny Bennett

terry@ospreyobserver.com

denise@ospreyobserver.com

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Jennifer Hurst

657-2418

657-2418

jbennettt@ospreyobserver.com

NEWS REPORTER

FOLLOW US:

jhurst@ospreyobserver.com

Taylor Wells 657-2418

twells@ospreyobserver.com

FISHHAWK/BLOOMINGDALE & VALRICO ADVERTISING

Kerrie Hoening

RIVERVIEW, APOLLO BEACH, & SOUTHSHORE ADVERTISING

Melissa Hartmann

625-1527

833-7470

kerrie@ospreyobserver.com

mhartmann@ospreyobserver.com

BRANDON & WINTHROP ADVERTISING

CHRISTIAN VOICE ADVERTISING

Melody Gershkoff

Cammie Yick

300-5152

810-8106

mgershkoff@ospreyobserver.com

cyick@ospreyobserver.com

Networking and Fellowship for Christian Business People

Christian Business Connections

Christian Business Connections

Membership Directory

NETWORKING MEETINGS MONDAY 8:00AM-9:00AM JUST LOVE COFFEE CAFÉ 2020 W BRANDON BLVD BRANDON, FL (ALSO AVAILABLE VIA ZOOM) CONTACT: CHRIS SHALOSKY CBC PRESIDENT CHRISSHALOSKY@KW.COM

Business Sales Church Chiropractic Care Cleaning Service Cleaning-Presure Wash Dentist Estate Planning Financial Services Hair Salon House/Pet Sitter Insurance Law Office Life Insurance Mail Marketing Mortgage News Personal Safety Real Estate Skin Care/Cosmetics Sports Ministry Web Design

Legacy Venture Group Lakewood Community Church of God NuVita Chiropractic AJ Westfall Co Mold Pirates Dr Harold Welch London Baker Law Brownstone Wealth Management Salon Lucent Neicy House & Pet Sitting Briggs & Associates Excallibur Law, PA Brownstone Wealth Management StayInTouch.Me Amerifirst Home Mortgage Christian Voice Damsel in Defense Keller Wiliams Realty Arbonne Fellowship of Christian Atheletes Kemp Design Services

Brian Stephens Degrando Franks Austin Chase Eileen Westfall Larry Whittler Betsie Welch Deb Baker Ryan Hughes Sandi Meadows Neicey Popa Stephen Briggs Ed Rosado Doug Canna Maureen Montalvo Terry Husbands Cammie Yick Kim French Chris Shalosky Gaby Matute Dee Franks Barb/Kevin Kemp

813-571-7700 813-714-8562 813-842-0188 813-433-4047 813-720-6801 813-417-3672 813-785-5052 813-731-5017 813-324-7393 856-261-1263 813-767-3970 813-759-3699 941-704-4751 813-368-8850 813-610-0872 813-810-8106 863-409-4298 813-857-6973 423-677-9916 813-356-8291 813-655-9200

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Page 6

PLANT CITY HOSTS MARKETS AT LAST FRIDAY MONTHLY EVENTS

By Faith Miller

Plant City Main is always someStreet hosts a monthly thing new to try ‘Last Friday’ event, inout each month. viting families to enjoy An example would a variety of food trucks be during a preand vendors. vious event when The event includes the theme was an average of 20-26 Pokémon and a vendors along with vendor created eight to nine food an “edible Pikachu trucks each month. The character out of vendors range from peeps.” homemade desserts, “Each month, boutique apparel, cotI try to support ton candy, fresh flowvendors that I ers, face painting, etc. didn’t get to supThe event is located in port in the month McCall Park at 100 N. before,” said RumCollins St. in downtown barger. “I do like Plant City. being surprised The event runs on each month with the last Friday of how creative the each month, January vendors get with through October. Each our theme.” event has its own Examples of the variety of food and merchanIf you’re intertheme particular to dise available to attendees at Last Friday event ested in becoming in downtown Plant City. that date. The list for a vendor, applicaupcoming themes are ‘Schools Out for tions are available through the Plant City Summer,’ ‘Dog Days of Summer,’ ‘Harry Main Street website. The application fee Potter’s Birthday,’ ‘Super Heroes,’ ‘Fall is $15 and nonrefundable. If approved, Festival’ and ‘Halloween.’ The event times there is a fee of $60 and the vendor is are from 5-9 p.m. given a 10 x 10 ft. space to set up within.

There is an average of 2,500-5,000 res- Vendors are asked to get supplies unloadidents attending the event each month, ed from vehicles between 3:30-3:45 p.m. according to Plant City Main Street Ex- and are asked to remove their vehicles ecutive Director Jerilyn Rumbarger. The from the site beginning at 4 p.m. atmosphere of the event is described as For more information regarding apone that is enjoyable for all ages. plying to be a vendor, please visit www.

“We have worked really hard over the plantcitymainstreet.org. More informalast few years to make this event unique tion on the event is also available through each month,” Rumbarger said. its Facebook page, ‘Plant City Main Due to the variety of vendors, there Street.’

NOW, MORE THAN EVER, WE REALIZE THE IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY.

Have you taken the TIME to do your Will or Trust?

Remember, you are not doing it for yourself... you are doing it for THEM.

2240 LITHIA CENTER LANE VALRICO 33596 THOMAS@TOMGALLOLAW.COM

813-815-4529

May 2021

Saint Anne Catholic Church ~Masses~ Vigil Saturday 4:30 p.m.

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

Wednesday & Jueves 7 p.m.

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

Reconciliation Tue. at 8:45am, Thurs. at 6pm, Sat. at 3:15pm and By Appointment.

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

Registration is now open for the 2021-2022 Faith Formation year.

Please call the office for more information.

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

Volume 25 | Issue 05

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Pastor’s Corner Jomo Cousins, PhD FAITH THAT SURPASSES ALL UNDERSTANDING

By Pastor Jomo Cousins, PhD

1 Corinthians 2:9, Amplified Bible (AMP): 9 but just as it is written [in Scripture], “Things which the eye has not seen and the ear has not heard, And which have not entered the heart of man, All that God has prepared for those who love Him…” George Müller was a man of incredible faith. He would find a passage in the Bible and prayed the promise into fruition. Here’s a short testimony of some of the exploits of Müller through prayer.

“One of the mightiest men of prayer of the last generation was George Mueller of Bristol, England, who in the last sixty years of his life (he lived to be ninety-two or ninety-three) obtained the English equivalent of $7,200,000.00 by prayer. But George Mueller never prayed for a thing just

because he wanted it, or even just because he felt it was greatly needed for God’s work. When it was laid upon George Mueller’s heart to pray for anything, he would search the Scriptures to find if there was some promise that covered the case. Sometimes he would search the scriptures for days before he presented his petition to God. And then when he found the promise, with his open Bible before him, and his finger upon that promise, he would plead that promise, and so he received what he asked. He always prayed with an open Bible before him,” - R.A. Torrey on George Müller; The Power of Prayer, 1924, (Page 81).

The amazing testimony of Müller shows us that the prayer of faith can move mountains. If you notice, Müller wasn’t praying for his needs, he was praying for the needs of others.

Except from: Prayer Life: The Conversation, Page 304.

Page 7

Page 8

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

BRANDON LEAGUE OF FINE ARTS RETURNS TO CENTER PLACE FINE ARTS & CIVIC ASSOCIATION

By Libby Hopkins In 1959, a dio Mondays, group of Branmembers’ don area artists meetings and art lovers and memfirst organized ber shows what was to bebecause the come the Branleague is back don League of at Center Fine Arts. WishPlace. We are ing to support finally back and encourage home.” the cultural life The league of the Greater maintains a Brandon area, The Brandon League of Fine Arts has been a part of Center close relaPlace Fine Arts & Civic Association for many years. It is these dedicated tionship with men and wom- thrilled to be back at Center Place creating art and holding Center Place their monthly meetings. en formed an and provides organization called the Brandon Area Art support for monthly art exhibitions in Center. the Mook Gallery. “When I first moved In 1977, the Brandon Area Art Center’s to Brandon years ago, I heard about the name was changed to the Brandon League Brandon League of Fine Arts and I came of Fine Arts to better reflect the growing to a meeting and I loved it,” said member scope of the members’ interests. “I have Sue Allen. “The artists are wonderful and been a part of the group since the begin- the friendships I have made with them ning,” said member Roxanne Tobaison. “I over the years are priceless.” have held various offices with the league The purpose of the league is to inspire at one time or the other, but what I like interest in the arts through educational most about being a part of the league is programs, to promote advancement of the friendships I’ve made over the years.” members by providing opportunities to The league has had a close relationship exhibit their work and to serve the comwith Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Asso- munity through enrichment of the culturciation. When the recent COVID-19 pan- al climate. demic hit, Center Place had to close its If you would like to learn more about doors. With so many arts programs and the Brandon League of Fine Arts or if museums closing due to the pandemic, you’d like to become a member of the Center Place was almost forced to close league, you can visit their website at permanently. “We were so thrilled when www.blfa.us. The league’s general memthe Odiorne family and the new Center bership meetings are held on the third Place board stepped up to reopen Cen- Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the ter Place,” said member Doreen Donovan. Mook Gallery of Center Place, located at “The league is now able to have their Stu- 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon.

WWW.WOMENSCAREFL.COM

May 2021

Plans Start at

$70 per month

We carry private and marketplace health plans.

Let us help you nd the best option for your needs.

CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE!

813-689-8800

www.hst-brandon.com

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Volume 25 | Issue 05

Page 9

THE DAYS ARE LONG, BUT THE YEARS ARE SHORT

By Kelly Wise Valdes

The month of May not only brings us springtime flowers and warmer weather, it’s also the month we celebrate our moms, our mother figures in our lives and being moms. As moms, we may often feel we’re not doing enough. I remember when my children were little, I was in a constant battle with myself to ‘do it all right.’ I felt the struggle every day to do more or to do better—as many mothers do. Second-guessing myself at the end of the day seemed to be a regular event. I would analyze my day and question why I was late picking up my daughter from cheerleading practice, or if I should have done more to help my son prepare for his spelling test. I would even question if I was packing lunches that were ‘good enough.’ God never intended motherhood to be a chore or an unpleasant task. We have a special role in the lives of our children that is truly a gift from God. During the difficult days, focus on unconditional love—the same unconditional love that God has for us. Proverbs 31:31 tells us, “Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.” Motherhood is undoubtedly a blessing from God. “The days are long, but the years are short.” Have a blessed Mother’s Day.

Sand in My Sandwich: And Other Motherhood Messes I’m Learning to Love

By Sarah Parshall Perry

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

By Ruth Schwenk

There is no perfect family, no life free of mess. But in the midst of it all, God is there. In this book, the author shares her story of motherhood and how God used her children and life’s messes as instruments of His presence and how God can put things back together the ‘right way.’ Told with humor and honesty, this book will let you know that motherhood is delightfully messy and that you are not alone.

ed to grow out of the ‘mess’ of motherhood and into a place where all mothers can grow as a better, happier mom. Readers are encouraged to embrace the refining work of the Holy Spirit to help every family not just survive but thrive through the parenting years.

FREE CONSULTATIONS BRANDON

401 S Parsons Ave., Unit A Brandon, FL 33511 (813) 654-6310

RIVERVIEW

11906 Boyette Rd Riverview, FL 33569 (813) 378-3748

Braces & Invisalign

for Children and Adults

I Need Some Help Here!: Hope for When Your Kids Don’t Go According to Plan In The Better Mom, readers are invit- By Kathi Lipp

Mothering from Scratch: Finding the Best Parenting Style for You and Your Family

By Melinda Means, For those in the trenches of mother- Kathy Helgemo

hood who’ve felt alone, defeated and at their wits’ end, this book commiserates but also uplifts and encourages in a way that gives moms hope and makes them smile. This book is filled with stories and insights that give moms permission to put aside the fantasy of being a perfect parent and instead become the kind of parent God needs you to be.

There’s no ‘one size fits all’ recipe for being a good mom. This faith-based book will help you find a parenting style that works for you. Abandoning cookie-cutter advice, this book offers biblical wisdom to help tap into individual strengths and weaknesses, push past the fear of doing it wrong and chart a grace-filled course for your family.

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Page 10

DREW’S RV TECHS, EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST

By Amy Schechter

between. We have parts for older vehicles that big box stores won’t try to replace.”

If you’re ready to trade in or buy, Drew’s RV Techs has upfront pricing and financing options to fit your budget. Anklin and his team strive for Whether it’s your their customers home or your home to have peace away from home, a of mind when it recreational vehicomes to buycle (RV) makes for ing and mainpriceless memotaining your inries and enjoyable vestment. adventures, and Not ready Drew’s RV Techs to jump into Drew’s RV Techs has what you need to keep your family has what you need an RV of your driving for years to come. to keep your family own? Check out driving for years to come.

Cruise America RV Rental, located onFamily-owned and operated, Drew’s site. It has a variety of small, standard RV Techs boasts an extensive inventory and large-size RVs, so you can explore of new and pre-owned RVs for sale plus the open road whether you want to knowledgeable and experienced techni- rough it out in wilderness parks or camp cians. Check out their competitive pric- in style. It’s the perfect family vacation es and personalized service the big box and a great opportunity to experience stores cannot complete with. all of what RVs have to offer.

Drew Anklin, owner and operator, For more information, call 645-7870 with over 30 years of experience work- or visit www.drewsrvtechs.com and ing on and around RVs, knows the dif- www.cruiseamerica.com/rv-rental-loference. cations/florida/tampa. Drew’s RV Techs “We have a huge emphasis on family. and Cruise America are located at 1601 An RV is important to your family. We S. U.S. Hwy. 41 in Ruskin. They are on will take on projects from the roof to open weekdays, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and on the wheel bearings and everything in Saturdays, 8 a.m.-12 Noon.

March 2021

LETTING GO, PRESSING ON

By Bob Zoellner

The pace of life, the demands of modernity and the stress of sometimes just surviving another day can bring about anxious feelings. Depression can also set in.

We were not created to live that way.

The believer has “become a new creation in Christ,” living above our circumstances, no matter what life brings our way at the moment.

Sometimes medication may be necessary, and wise intervention through counsel is recommended, even encouraged. We also need to learn how to deal with life as it comes.

An erroneous view of Scripture tells us that after conversion we will have nothing but smooth sailing. We still live in a fallen world, however, and we bear the consequences of that, through our own poor choices and the poor choices of others.

Life can be hard. Death, relationship problems, parenting issues, financial difficulties, workplace chaos, Tampa traffic or even being a long-suffering Cleveland Browns fan can wreak havoc on our psyche. But we persevere, because we were not promised that life would be easy.

As the disciples approached some trying circumstances, Jesus said: “I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world,” (John 16:33).

The best way to deal with anxiety is to simply pray. We have become good at

talking about our troubles to whoever will listen, and sometimes that venting is good.

Not everybody wants to hear our woes, though. But the Lord is ready for us to pour our hearts out. “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you,” (1 Peter 5:7).

We also have to get better at leaving the past behind us where it belongs. We’ve all had successes and failures, but our problem is that we tend to relive them.

The apostle Paul learned the secret of letting the past go—to gain Christ. In his letter to the Philippians, he concludes: “… forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus,” (Philippians 3:13-14).

Author Gary Chapman, in his book, The 5 Love Languages, states, “I am amazed by how many individuals mess up every new day with yesterday. They insist on bringing into today the failures of yesterday and in so doing pollute a potentially wonderful day.”

Once we learn to let go of the past, reconciling the good and the bad and learning to trust in the Lord through it all, we can live much more calm and peaceful lives, handling anxiety with grace when life gets tough.

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 Assisted Living Facility #AL13150

Questions about memory loss?

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Groups - Call for Zoom link

Memory Care

“Living the present... cherishing the past.”

Located in the heart of Brandon close to I75, Hwy 60 and Hwy 301

1320 Oakfield Dr., Brandon, FL 33511 (813) 607-6880

Call TODAY for special pricing!

tesserabrandon.com

LAKE BRANDON VILLAGE 11325 Causeway Blvd • Brandon • (813) 655-1237 Hours: 6am - 10pm

SOUTH BRANDON 2010 Bloomingdale Ave • Brandon • 813) 571-0569

Volume 25 | Issue 05

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

KLEANAWAY CARPET AND TILE CLEANING HELPS MAINTAIN FLOORING

By Michelle Caceres

Keeping carEven though pets looking he prides himtheir best is self on his effino simple task. ciency, MercuCarpets and rio said there general upholare no shortstery are dust cuts to cleanmagnets. Even ing.

“Quality when surfacshows, and if es may not our customers even appear weren’t satisthat dirty, that fied with the plush pile is a end result, we hiding spot for wouldn’t have bugs, mold, skin Kleanaway Carpet and Tile Cleaning helps keep your car- been in busipeting contaminant-free. flakes, pollen, pet ness as long as urine, dirt and germs. we have,” he said.

While do-it-yourself carpet cleaning maHis steam cleaning process is a safe and chines are available, there’s no substitute sanitary way to clean carpeting. It reaches for an expert and thorough carpet cleaning down to the lowest layer, or ‘pile,’ of carjob. peting and removes those nasty contamWith Kleanaway Carpet and Tile Clean- inants. ing, its three-step cleaning process, which The Riverview-based cleaning company, includes a pretreatment for heavily soiled in addition to specializing in residential and areas and steam cleaning with a state-of- commercial carpet cleaning, also offers tile the-art, truck-mounted unit, reaches deep and grout cleaning. “No matter what kind into the fibers of carpet to lift and dissolve of tile you have installed, we will be able stains. to clean it,” he said. “We have experience “With just a little bit of time we can cleaning glass, ceramic, porcelain, granite, drastically improve the appearance of your natural stone and travertine tiling.” interior spaces,” said Owner Russell MerMercurio said he wants his customers curio. “We pride ourselves on being thor- to remain confident in the services he proough yet efficient, two key elements that vides as he helps them create clean enviarea required for a satisfying customer ronments for themselves and their loved experience.” ones. “We want to help our customers stay When Rod Steele needed his carpet healthy and having disinfected carpeting is cleaned quickly, he turned to Kleanaway. a step in the right direction,” he said.

“They came out the very next morning and For more information about Kleanaway took care of my carpet,” he said. “It looks Carpet and Tile Cleaning or to schedule an absolutely amazing and didn’t take long at appointment, call 992-5248 or visit www. all.” cartpetcleaningintampafl.com.

Page 11

U-PICK BLUEBERRY SEASON IS HERE

By Tatiana Ortiz

located at 5202 ThonoFlorida blueberry farmers tosassa Rd. in Plant City. will produce about 10 to 12 Call 752-9100. million tons of blueberries Lyna Berry Farms annually in this state. And, Blueberry U-Pick according to the U.S. DeFrom the end of April partment of Agriculture’s through May, people National Agricultural Statiscan come to Lyna Bertics Service, blueberries are ry Farms for U-pick and about a $60 million-a-year blueberries. pre-pick industry in Florida.

Exact dates and times Wish Farms Blueberry will be determined.

U-Pick The U-pick prices will People can come to Wish be $2.50 per pound Farms in Plant City and pick (weighted at checkout) fresh blueberries right off the plants. This occurs ev- Owners of Lyna Berry Farms Lyna Knight and pre-pick will be $4 (left) and Susan Weicherding (right). per pound (in 2 lb. and 5 ery Saturday through May 1 at 10 a.m. It costs $7 per pound, and lb. packaging).

For more information, or to sign up for cash or credit credit will be the type of payment methods accepted. Picking buck- email notifications on U-picks, pre-picks ets will also be provided. Those who attend dates and more, visit www.lynaberrywill need to bring a container to transport farms.com. Check out their Facebook page the berries home. Free parking will also be www.facebook.com/lynaberryfarms. It is located at 11920 Neal Rd. in Lithia (Fishavailable and registration is not required.

For more information, visit www.wish- Hawk) and 17928 Bill Taylor Rd. in Lithia farms.com/berry-u-picks. Check out the (Fort Lonesome).

Wishing Well Barn Blueberry U-Pick Facebook page www.facebook.com/wishFrom now until the end of May, Wishing farms. It is located at 1301 S. Frontage Rd. in Plant City. For questions, email market- Well Barn will be offering U-pick blueberries Monday through Thursday at 9 a.m. ing@wishfarms.com.

The blueberries will be at market price.

Keel Farms Blueberry U-Pick For questions, contact Michelle Welch at Visit the 20 acres of blueberry fields located at Keel Farms in Plant City from now 478-6554. Check out the Facebook page until the entirety of its blueberry season https://www.facebook.com/WishingWellfor U-pick. The blueberries will be on sale Barn. It is located at 4302 Pippin Rd. in for $5 per pound Monday through Friday Plant City.

Frosty Blue Farms Blueberry U-Pick beginning at 10 a.m. On Saturday and SunThose interested in U-pick and ‘we-pick’ day at 9 a.m., the blueberries will be $6 per pound. Parking will be free and it does blueberries should reach out to Frosty Blue not cost anything for admission. In addi- Farms as it typically takes place in midtion, the tasting room will also be open at May and ends at the end of the month.

Www.frostybluefarms.com/u-pick.html 11 a.m., Monday through Friday, for dining, FrostyBlueBlueberryFarm on FaceBook. It tastings and to-go purchases.

For more information, visit www.face- is located at 1907 Streetman Dr. in Lithia. book.com/keelandcurleyatkeelfarms. It is Call 689-7703.

Page 12

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

PORT TAMPA BAY OFFERS FREE EDUCATIONAL HARBOR TOURS

By Tatiana Ortiz

Through its container ships by partnership crane. Wolf-Chason with The Florstated that, accordida Aquarium, ing to the American Port Tampa Association of Port Bay provides Authorities, 95 perfree 75-mincent of goods one ute Educational uses does travel Harbor Tours through a seaport. twice a week With the seating on Wednesdays capacity limited to and Thursdays 60 passengers, those at 9 a.m. These interested in the tour tours assist the must make an adcommunity with vanced reservation. understanding Upon completion of the economic every reservation, a importance of confirmation email Port Tampa Bay, will be sent with inwhich handles structions. more than 37 Participants will million tons of also meet at the cargo a year and huge manta ray statPassengers aboard the Bay Spirit II catamaran during an is considered ue at the entrance of Educational Harbor Tour at Port Tampa Bay. Florida’s largest The Florida Aquarport. In addition, Port Tampa Bay has an ium. As part of the safety protocols being $18 billion impact on the region and effects implemented with the COVID-19 pandemic, 85,000 direct as well as indirect jobs. face coverings and social distancing will be Lisa Wolf-Chason, director of commu- required throughout the entire tour. nications at Port Tampa Bay, shared what In regards to youth and school groups, a participants will learn during their narrated variety of guidelines will need to be adhered tour. to.

“They will learn about our cruise opera“Overall, Port Tampa Bay is the enertions, what some of the port’s major tenants gy gateway of Florida and nearly half of bring through our port and about its history the state’s fuel comes through our port,” in our community,” Wolf-Chason said.

Wolf-Chason said. “With that in mind, most Passengers will be touring Hooker’s Point people have no idea that such an importwhile riding the Bay Spirit II catamaran. ant part of their daily lives sits in their own Hooker’s Point displays the port’s container backyard,” she added. terminals, fuel terminals and more. During For more information or to book a tour, the tour, passengers may even get a chance visit www.porttb.com/harbor-tours or call to observe containers being taken off giant 905-7678.

Hiring: Coordinator of Communications

The Coordinator of Communications is responsible for overseeing the overall communications of the parish and its ministries. The Coordinator of Communications will design, edit and review communication materials (i.e. bulletin, website, video, digital and print communications), oversee and manage the parish’s social media presence, and research to keep up with various communication trends. This position will also collaborate with staff and ministry leaders on publicity and communications in support of desired ministry outcomes and evangelization. An ideal candidate will have excellent organizational skills with careful attention to details.

Candidate should be tech savvy, detail-oriented with the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Bachelor’s degree is required, proficiency in multiply software packages is a plus and a practicing Catholic.

Candidate must successfully pass a Level II (FBI) criminal history background check and attend Safe Environment Training.

Interested persons can send resume to: Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 702 Valley Forge Blvd, Sun City Center , FL 33573; or e-mail to: maureen@popcc.org.

No phone calls, please. Prince of Peace is a smoke free workplace.

May 2021

PROJECT ROLE MODEL RETURNS TO CENTER PLACE FINE ARTS & CIVIC ASSOCIATION

By Libby Hopkins

from 6-8 p.m. The program ends on June 9 with a graduation and fashion show ceremony at the center. The cost for the program is $60. “I love teaching this program because it builds self-esteem, self-confidence, manners and gives our young girls a positive attitude,” Linda said. “I feel that girls nowadays need to learn the qualities to help them succeed in life.”

Linda has been teaching etiquette, self-development, charm and modeling for more than 30 years. She is a fifth-generation Brandon resident who owned and operated her own business called Glamour Connection. “I was an instructor and motivator at Barbizon School of Modeling and won teacher of the year there,” Linda Herndon-Goldstein has been teaching etiquette, self-develLinda said. “I believe the way you opment, charm and modeling for more than 30 years. present yourself Charm, etiquette to the world is the and self-developway the world rement are qualities sponds to you, and that are near and that must be in a dear to Linda Hernpositive, self-confidon-Goldstein or dent manner.

‘Miss Linda,’ as she Linda’s platform is known at Center and goal for ProjPlace. Linda has been ect Role Model is teaching her Project to help young girls Role Model class for become role mod17 years at Center els who grow up Place. With the recent pandemic and to inspire other young girls. “My goal the near-closing of the beloved Brandon in teaching this program is to improve, community center, Project Role Model educate and create role models for fuhad to be put on hold for a while. ture generations who believe, achieve “I am so thrilled to be back home at and succeed. I want girls to come share Center Place,” Linda said. the opportunity to reach for the stars “While Center Place was closed, forand become one.” mer students and parents were reachIf you would like to register your ing out to me to see when I would be daughter for Project Role Model sesteaching this program again at Center sion one, please call Center Place Fine Place.”

Arts & Civic Association at 685-8888.

Project Role Model session one beLinda is currently working on dates for gins on Wednesday, May 5. The sixProject Role Model session two and a week program for girls ages 8-14 will Project Role Model for boys as well. meet on Wednesdays at Center Place

Mon-Fri 9 am-6 pm • Sat 9am-4pm • Sun-Closed

Dr. Ripal Patel, DPM

“Foot problems? I’m back in Brandon to help.”

Joined A+ Family Foot & Ankle Clinic Diplomate, American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery® Certified in Foot Surgery | Over 22 years of Experience

Conservative Treatment Options Available Most Insurances Accepted | Great, Affordable Self Pay Price

1462 Oakfield Drive, Brandon, Fl (813) 685-6922

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Volume 25 | Issue 05

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 Apostles Lutheran Church 200 Kingsway Rd, Brandon (813) 689-2571 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 Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church 5920 Robert Tolle Drive, Riverview (813) 337-7457 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

DOG TRAINING

Get Your Church or Business Listed TODAY! Contact Cammie Yick at cyick@ospreyobserver.com

ROOFING

MOBILE RV REPAIR CERTIFIED

LICENSED

A trusted local professional

• ROOFING • FASCIA • SOFFIT • GUTTERS FAST, FREE, FRIENDLY ESTIMATES

Call 813-333-6320 Frank Shaft Licensed Contractor #CCC1327713

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

HEAT & AC

Angel Complete Solutions, LLC

“Since 1972”

• Puppy Training • Obedience Training IN • CGC & Therapy Training YOUR • Service Training HOME • PTSD Training • Protection Training • Aggression or County Citation

813-685-6666 allamericandog.net

TUTORING

• Reading • Writing • Math • SAT/ACT • Homework Edge preK -12th Grade Ask about our Monthly Budget Plan “Creating Success by Changing Lives”

Brandon/Valrico Riverview 689-7212 671-1919 Plant City 754-7788

CLEANING SVC

INSURED

Mobile RV Repair & Services Technician travels to your RV.

REPAIRS, MAINTENANCE, INSTALLATIONS, UPGRADES AND INSPECTIONS.

Honest. Reliable. Experienced.

(aka Angel Cleaning)

Residential & Commercial Installation & Repair Commercial Refrigeration

• Licensed, Bonded & Insured • Free Quotes • Affordable Pricing • Extremely Satisfied Customers • References Available Upon Request • Now Hiring

813-753-9303

(813) 671-2555

AngelCompleteSolutionsLLC@gmail.com

CLEANING SVC

PAINTING

ACCOUNTANT

MV104106

KLEANAWAY CARPET & TILE CLEANING

Palm Tree Roofing

Page 13

3 Step cleaning process: Pre spray, Brushing and Steam Cleaning

SPRING CLEANING SPECIAL 4 Rooms of Carpet $99 3 Rooms Carpet and Tile $99 FREE SANITIZER WITH SERVICES

Call Now ! (813) 992-5248 www.carpetcleaningintampafl.com

(954) 297-7285

GARY D. MEYER CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT

• Accounting & Bookkeeping • Compiled Financial Statement Presentations • Tax Return Preparation for Individuals, Corporations, LLC’s and Partnerships • Consulting for New Business Startups • Financial & Estate Planning

813-971-4067

gmeyer4@tampabay.rr.com Serving the Tampa Bay Area Since 1980

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Page 14

May 2021

COMING SOON: THE MOTOR ENCLAVE – AN AUTOMOTIVE COMMUNITY OFFERING EXCLUSIVE PRIVATELY OWNED GARAGES

By Brian Bokor

The Motor Enclave of Tampa, a 200-acre car enthusiast’s playground to include 300 private garages, a performance circuit, three off-road courses, a vehicle dynamics pad and a 35,000 sq. ft. corporate events center, is set to break ground this summer between the Tampa Executive Airport and I-75, just north of the I-75/I-4 interchange. The $100M project is led by Brad Oleshansky, corporate attorney and founder of M1 Concourse in Pontiac, Michigan.

Oleshansky spent 7 years building M1 into the largest privately owned garage community in the world until he sold it in 2019 to expand the concept across the United States under The Motor Enclave brand.

Oleshansky is a two-time winner of the prestigious Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, the first time in 2012 for Big Communications and again in 2018 for M1 Concourse.

Tampa will be the first of several cities targeted for his concept, and when asked why here, Oleshansky replied, “the demand is here and the data supports it. The (Central) Tampa area has one of the largest concentrations of car enthusiasts in the county,” adding the location worked perfectly adjacent to the airport and major interchange and presented an opportunity to repurpose the underutilized vacant dairy farm into Tampa’s next destination location.

The 1.6-mile performance circuit was designed by world-renowned Formula One track designer Hermann Tilke, with Oleshansky telling me it will feature “Fourteen turns and a half-mile straight away. The 80-acre off–road area will include a Rubicon Trail experience, a Rally Cross experience, a desert experience and a training course/area. The area will also have hiking and mountain biking trails for members to explore. Owners will enjoy an on-site swimming pool as well as members lounge in the event center” as part of the extensive amenity package.

Oleshansky said there will be many opportunities for the public to visit the facility beginning with several free events, such as ‘Cars and Coffee,’ where guests are invited to enjoy a courtesy cup of coffee and view classic, luxury and exotic automobiles provided by local owners and sponsors.

Other public events will include ‘Cars under the Stars,’ a variety of car shows and periodic food truck rallies.

Paid driving schools will be available, where individuals will be taught to drive

both high-performance as well as off-road vehicles under the supervision of professionally trained instructors. The corporate events center will be available to rent for groups anywhere between 10 and 1,000 and will offer full-service amenities for its guests. All of the driving elements on the property are available for private rentals.

Public track days will also be scheduled at various times throughout the year, with users wishing to drive on the track being able to register when the opportunities arise.

For those interested in purchasing a garage, act fast as 150 of the planned 300 units have already been spoken for, with reservations coming from all parts of the country. The 25-foot-tall structures range from 625-2,400 square feet of ground floor space, allowing plenty of room to

• Slow Computer & Virus Repairs • Computer Hardware Repairs • Wired and Wireless Networks • Upgrades & Maintenance • Home Theaters

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

store cars below and create living/office arrangements above, including kitchens, bars and bathrooms. Units are sold as ‘white boxes,’ with interior design up to the end user. Examples of the endless garage possibilities as well as how to inquire about their availability can be found on The Motor Enclave’s website at www.themotorenclave.com. Interested parties are encouraged to sign up for The Motor Enclave VIP list in order to stay informed about project progress and learn more about future events and public track options.

Oleshansky is also involved in several charitable organizations and wanted to invite all of our readers to join him and The Motor Enclave team, which includes Chas Ostezan and Winchester Stiens, on Saturday, May 1 for the inaugural ‘Road Rally for a Cure,’ benefitting the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation. Fourty-three cars will participate in a sheriff-escort-led rally from Nova University in Clearwater to Sparksman Wharf in Tampa, culminating in a public car show from 12 Noon-2 p.m.

Please visit www.nationalpcf.org for additional information about this event and other ways to help beat pediatric cancer.

CALL Y TODA

Free Estimates COVID-19 Remote Support New Customer Discounts Use Coupon Code: SUMMER2021

813.564.8469 help@beachgeeks.com

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Volume 25 | Issue 05

Page 15

FAITH & FOOTPRINTS

DON JUSTO CATHEDRAL – MADRID, SPAIN About 13 miles east of Madrid, Spain in the small town of Mejorada del Campo stands a mostly constructed cathedral that attests to a former monk’s lifetime devotion to the Catholic faith, the Don Justo Cathedral.

The structure has been built by 95-year-old Justo Gallego Martínez, also known as Don Justo, using nothing but recycled, scavenged and donated materials, making the building a oneof-a kind masterpiece.

Justo was born in 1925 outside of Madrid.

He became a monk, joining a local monastery at the age of 27. After eight years, Justo left the monastery in 1959 after being diagnosed with tuberculosis. He fully recovered, but when his mother died in 1963 and left him a large plot of land in the center of the town, Justo decided to not re-enter into the monastery, but instead would devote himself to Christ by building a cathedral to honor God. Without any construction experience, he decided to build his own cathedral from scratch and make a shrine to “Our Lady of the Pillar,” or Nuestra Señora del Pilar.

Incredibly, most of the building materials used to construct the cathedral have been

By Kelly Wise Valdes

scavenged or donated by local construction companies.

Justo became very clever with the materials he’s had to work with, including columns made of concrete-filled plastic buckets or air ducts formed from coils of wire.

There are no formal plans for the building, as Justo builds as he is inspired, and the building has evolved over time. The cathedral still needs at least 10 years of work, years that Justo simply doesn’t have. But, his devotion to his life’s work keeps him occupied every day, except Sundays.

Although mostly working alone, he has been assisted by his six nephews and occasional volunteers. Today, the frame of a huge structure, with a 50-meter-tall dome modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, towers over the town. What will happen to the building after Justo’s death remains in question.

However, Justo has already built his own crypt in the cathedral and plans to be buried there. Justo and his incredible project is the subject of a 2009 short documentary, Cathedral.

For more information or to help donate to the crowdfunding campaign to help Justo finish the cathedral, visit www.onemancathedral.com.

Live Like You Mean It ...

Rolling Up Our Sleeves For Others For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. – Romans 12:45.

Okay, I’m going to say this out loud.

“Ouch! That really hurt!” But it didn’t seem polite or appropriate to whine about it at the time; not when these wonderful health care providers are working so hard to get as many people as possible vaccinated.

Also, and I’m going to say this out loud too: “Do not be a vaccine holdout!” Scheduling, obviously, takes time and coordina-

tion. But everyone will have the opportunity and we must follow through. The simple science of the equation is clear: the higher the percentage of people inoculated, the greater the effectiveness of the intervention.

COVID-19 takes people down regardless of age, ethnicity, gender or point of view. Your politics matter not one whit when it comes to public health. So, let’s demonstrate some sense of Christian community, put others ahead of ourselves, become part of the solution rather than exacerbating the problem, roll up our sleeves, do the right thing and get vaccinated already.

Rebekah and I left the house at 10:00, arrived near the vaccination site at 10:45, got lost, found the right entrance at 10:50, checked in for our 11:00 slot at 10:53, received our shots at 11:15, were released from “observation” around 11:30, and were back home for lunch by 12:15.

Now that is some impressive public health. Mega-kudos to the entire operation. Everyone was courteous, everyone gave smiles, everyone was treated with patience and respect, everyone seemed to ‘get’ the gravity of the situation and the importance of pulling together to make the solution work.

And did I mention that the shot hurt?

By Derek Maul

Ouch! This is why I hooked up with the Johnson & Johnson. One and done!

So let’s all follow the reasoning of Paul: “In Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”

Peace – 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

www.sagecleaners.com

Expiration 06/01/2021

Expiration 06/01/2021

Expiration 06/01/2021

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Page 16

May 2021

HOT OFF THE CHRISTIAN NEWS WIRE

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Carrie Underwood’s Gospel Album My Savior Tops Billboard Country, Christian Charts

Late Rapper DMX Leaves Behind A Legacy Of Faith

Rapper DMX, also known as Earl Simmons, died on April 9 after being placed on life support following a heart attack.

Hundreds of supporters flooded New York’s White Plains Hospital’s parking lot to pray for him as he went on life support. In recent months, DMX also hosted a series of pandemic Bible studies where thousands tuned in to hear the Bible.

In 2012, the award-winning artist shared that he was entering into ministry. He became a transitional deacon in the Christian Church and hoped to eventually become a fulltime pastor.

His family released a statement calling him a man who loved his family with a legacy that will live on forever.

Additionally, Christian rapper Lecrae also released a statement calling DMX an “icon” who was outspoken about his faith and showed that everyone has difficulties that they can work to overcome.

“It’s simple; he was human. May his family be comforted, and his soul rest for eternity,” Lecrae’s statement concluded.

Carrie Underwood’s latest album, My Savior, recently topped Billboard’s Country and Christian charts and came in at No. 4 on the all-genre Billboard 200 chart.

The album, which was released in March, features beloved renditions of classics like “How Great Thou Art,” “Softly and Tenderly” and “Amazing Grace.”

Underwood performed songs from My Savior during a livestreamed event from the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee on Easter Sunday.

According to a statement from Universal Music Group Nashville, 2.5 million fans worldwide tuned in to watch the performance, which also raised $112,000 for the

nonprofit charity Save the Children. For more information about Underwood’s album, visit www.music.amazon.com.

To watch, visit The Chosen’s YouTube channel. You can also download The Chosen app and watch all of the episodes for free on your smartphone.

Sight & Sound Brings Live Christian Theater To Audiences Around The World

Popular TV Series The Chosen Releases First Two Episodes Of Sight & Sound Theatres is a ministry on a Season Two, Now Crowdfunding mission to bring the Bible to life through live theater, television and film. What started For Season Three During the COVID-19 shutdown, many people downloaded and binge-watched the first eight-episode television series, titled The Chosen, about the life of Jesus Christ.

The producers of the television series recently posted a trailer for season two of the series to their Facebook page. They also presented the second episode of season two as a live event on Facebook and YouTube channel.

The Chosen is the first-ever multiseason TV show about the life of Jesus.

Created outside of the Hollywood system, the series allows viewers to see him through the eyes of those who knew him.

Season one was funded entirely by private donations, making it the number one crowdfunded media project of all time. Donors contributed more than $19 million to the production, which was distributed through VidAngel Studios.

The creators of the series are now in the process of crowdfunding to produce Season three. According to the VidAngel Studios website, the producers have already raised 12 percent of the total funding for the next season. Plans are also in the works to produce a total of seven seasons of the popular series.

over 40 years ago as a traveling multimedia show has today become a destination for over 25 million people. In 2005, Sight & Sound Theatres began filming and releasing productions on DVD. National distribution came in 2017, when shows first appeared in movie theaters across the country, followed by digital releases on iTunes, Amazon and

Hulu. In 2020, Sight & Sound made its first global television and live streaming debut, with more than three million viewers tuning in from over 100 countries worldwide. For more information, visit www.sight-sound. com.

Annual Unstoppable Summer JAM Literacy Fun Camp for ages 6-14

STEM • Spanish • Swimming Classes • Reading • Writing Dance • Character Development • Fitness • Field Trips Early Bird Registration April 13th-23rd $50.00/wk

Limited to 40 participants ~ COVID CDC Guidelines utilized and Masks Required.

June 7 July 23, 2021

$65/wk

With a legacy spanning nearly 30 years, PHFL is proud to offer our community during the coronavirus and unemployment crisis, a discounted rate to our residential substance use treatment program.

Registration Opens April 13, 2021 Church Services 10am Sunday

5920 Robert Tolle Drive Riverview, 33578 813-337-7457 Office Hours: Tues & Thur 10am- 2pm www.Mtzionriverview.com FACEBOOK: Mt Zion AME Church Riverview

Youth Church School

Teens ... 12:30pm Sunday Youth ... 2pm Sunday Prayer .. 7pm Tuesday

Bible Study

Adults ... 7pm Wednesday Teens ... 7pm Thursday

Community Food Pantry 1st & 3rd Thursday monthly or by appointment

Karen J. Sims, Pastor and Roy Sims (brother)

IS YOUR CHILD TALKING?

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA RHEUMATOLOGY

By age two, your child should have 200 words and combine 2-3 word sentences.

PATIENT of the MONTH Emma (Age 4)

“Thank you for helping Emma gain confidence by improving her speech. Our family is so thankful for TBS and we can’t say enough wonderful things about everyone who has helped Emma with her Apraxia.” -Jill C. (Mom)

Tampa Bay Speech, Language & Reading cLinic READING • WRITING • HANDWRITING Therapy Services: Articulation • Apraxia Auditory Processing • Autism • Sensory Feeding Disorders

(813) 368-2485 Park Square - Fishhawk • 16132 Churchview Drive, Ste. 205

Serving local area families for over 19 years!

Specializing in treatment of:

Rheumatoid Arthritis • Psoriatic Arthritis • Osteoporosis Gout • Osteoarthritis • Lupus On Site: Infusion • Lab • Ultrasound

Accepting ts New Patien nce most insura accepted

Dr. Priya Reddy M.D. FACR

Dr. Gina Prakash M.D.

Board Certified Rheumatologist

Board Certified Rheumatologist

813-672-2243

Conveniently located in Riverview and Sun City Center

11954 Boyette Rd., Riverview 4002 Sun City Center Blvd. Ste. 101

w w w.S WFLRHEUM.com

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Volume 25 | Issue 05

MISSY’S INK EMPOWERS WOMEN

DIETRICH & KELSO ORTHODONTICS OFFER PREMIUM PATIENT CARE TO THE COMMUNITY

By Libby Hopkins

When a woman feels her self-esteem.” good, she can take on Duncan offers many the world. Missy Dunservices at Missy’s Ink. can, owner of Missy’s From microblading to Ink in Valrico, makes pink areola pigmentasure every woman who tion, her goal is to make receives one of her women feel beautiful. beauty services leaves “I love to create beautifeeling beautiful and ful permanent makeup empowered. “Missy’s for my clients,” Duncan Ink just said. “There’s nothing celebrated better than looking four years your best, any time of of being in the day. Life may not business,” always be perfect, but Missy Duncan, owner of MisDuncan your makeup can be.” sy’s Ink in Valrico, makes sure every woman said. “I feel so blessed who receives one of her beauty services Duncan is always and excited for the fu- leaves feeling beautiful and empowered. learning new beauty serture. After being in the same office for vices that she can offer to her clients more than 10 years, it was time for a as well. “The most current class that I change. I’m moving to the Valrico area, recently took was for machine strokes,” and it’s such an exciting new adventure.” Duncan said. “Machine strokes is a proDuncan is a mom of two adult children cess of using my machine for the hair and has been married for 29 years to stroke technique instead of a microher husband, who has been her sweet- blade. This method makes the process heart since she met him when she was more comfortable as well as helps with 14 years old. “We’re enjoying the empty color retention.” nest life together and loving it,” Duncan Duncan’s goal for the future is to consaid. tinue to learn, grow and gain more confiAfter having a successful photography dence. “Learning creates knowledge and business for 20 years, Duncan decided knowledge creates confidence,” Duncan she needed a change in life. “I decided said. “Continuing to take classes in perthat, although God had blessed me so manent makeup is something that I do much, I was ready for a change,” Dun- often. I believe continuing to learn more can said. “I took a leap of faith and set is a priority in this business.” out for a new beginning with permaTo learn more about the services ofnent makeup. It’s been the best career fered at Missy’s Ink, visit www.misI could’ve ever hoped for. It allows me sysink.com or call 659-0648. The new to show my creativity and gives me such location of Missy’s Ink is at 3117 Lithia satisfaction of seeing a woman renew Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico.

Page 17

By Hayley Fedor

patient experiences,” said Ashley Chandler, office manager at Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics.

The 28 staff members that make up Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics provide quality customer service for each guest and play an important role in facilitating the caring and welcoming experience that the company maintains.

“I like to brag that our foundation is built more on trust and teamwork and the commitment to The smiling staff of Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, dedicated carrying ourselves with the utmost integrity and compassion,” said to high-quality customer service.

Chandler.

When it comes to orthodontics, Dietrich At Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, many & Kelso Orthodontics offers quality care different types of insurances are accepted with staff that put building trustworthy and flexible payment options are available relationships with patients first. The comin order to best accommodate patients. pany has established its reputation for proPart of the company’s commitment to fessionalism over the last 43 years, startquality is reflected in its approach to treating in the Polk County area and expanding ments which include utilizing the newest to serving the Hillsborough County comtechnologies and techniques in the field of munity more recently. orthodontics. In addition, Dietrich & Kelso The original practice was started by Dr. continues to grow and expand as the deKeith Hillard, who worked in the office unsire to bring quality care to more patients til his retirement in 2016. In 2012, Dr. Anand families increases. drew Dietrich took ownership of the prac“Instead of just doing orthodontics, we tice, and later in 2017, Dr. Andrew Kelso build a relationship with our patients,” said became part owner with Dr. Dietrich.

Chandler.

Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics specialDietrich & Kelso Orthodontics accomizes in braces and Invisalign treatment modates patients Monday-Friday at all six for children and adults and the dedicated of its locations; hours of operation vary dedoctors with the company work to create pending on the office. There are two locapersonalized plans with each individual pations in Hillsborough County, the Brandon tient. The primary goal is for patients to location at 401 S. Parsons Ave., Unit A and feel confident and informed about their the Riverview at 11906 Boyette Rd. treatments throughout the entire process.

To learn more about Dietrich & Kelso “We take pride in providing the best orOrthodontics and to find contact informathodontic care with a focus on exceptional tion, visit dkosmiles.com.

CHRISTIAN

EDUCATION DIRECTORY

820 College Ave W., Ruskin, FL 813-645-6441 Preschool, VPK, Grades K5-12 www.ruskinchristianschool.net AdvancED, Middle States Association and FACCS accredited

Serving K5-12 & Preschool 1yr-4yr 813-661-0588 5416 Providence Rd. Riverview providencechristianschool.net

BAPTIST ACADEMY

Celebrating Over 50 Years of Kingdom Education 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. Brandon

Fully Accredited Serving with Excellence for 38 Years!

VPK/Preschool Elementary School • Middle School Before & After Care

689-9183

Now Enrolling !!

Infant through Pre-K4

Call 813-684-9453

www.bsbacademy.com

Now g!

Enrollin

Over 4in0 yrs Christian Education

Inspire. Teach. Minister.

Preschool • VPK • Half-day Kindergarten Before and After Care • Wee Play Offering early childhood education in a loving, warm Christian environment for over 45 years.

(813) 689-9482

120 N. Knights Avenue • Brandon, FL 33510 www.newhopeearlylearning.com

Small, Caring Environment

ENROLLING STUDENTS VPK/Preschool 3 & 4 Yr Old Before & After Care

Luke 18:16

200 Kingsway Road, Brandon 689-2571 www.apostleslutheran.net

Faith Christian Academy Preschool

Now Enrolling Ages 6 weeks - 5 years

Grades K-12

Accepting Students with IEPs

Now Enrolling Two Locations

K-8th Grades

*Meals, Diapers and Formula Included* 1202 S. Collins Street. | Plant City, FL 33563

1204 S. Lenna Ave, Seffner 13498 US Hwy 301 South, Riverview

813.661.4200

813.473.2090

www.fcapc.com

WWW.LIVINGSTONESHOOLS.ORG

Grades PK-12

St. Stephen Catholic School

Offering Fall VPK

• Providing Quality Education • Early Childhood Programs (3 & 4 yr. olds) • Elementary Education (Kindergarten thru 5th) • Middle School Education (6 thru 8th grade)

10424 Saint Stephen Circle Riverview (Off Boyette Road)

(813) 741-9203

www.ststephencatholicschool.org

Inspire. Teach. Minister.

K5-12th Grade Faith Christian Academy of Plant City Now Enrolling/Accepting McKay, Gardiner and Step Up For Students

Dual Enrollment, AP Classes, Sports and Arts

1211 W. Reynolds St. | Plant City, FL 33563

813.473.2090 • www.fcapc.com

CENTRAL BAPTIST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL “Distinctly Christian, Academically Excellent” 402 E. Windhorst, Brandon, 33510

813-689-6133 www.cbcslions.com

Accepting Step Up Scholarships

Learn more about how to advertise your school in the Christian Voice education directory! Contact Cammie Yick at cyick@ospreyobserver.com

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Page 18

DID YOU KNOW? PATRON SAINTS FOR 50 STATES

LITTLE ROCK, AR – BISHOP EDWARD FITZGERALD

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Catholic beGrowing oplievers pray for pression of Caththe intercession olics in Germaof the saints in ny bolstered the heaven so that wave of German they may pray immigration at for us on our the end of the behalf.

Saints 19th century. Alare able to inthough most Gertercede on our mans settled in behalf and offer rural areas along up to God the the Arkansas Rivprayers of those er Valley, many on Earth. Patron made their way saints are recto cities where ognized as the small German heavenly advocommunities were cates and spealready in place. cial intercessors In 1881, Fitzgerfor many things, ald commissioned even states. If German-language you want to ask sermons to be for the special The state of Arkansas has a long and rich Catholic history. given at the Caintercession on thedral of St. Anbehalf of your state, do you know who drew—the only Catholic church in Little to pray to?

Rock at the time.

Did you know that Mother Teresa once As German immigrants began to visited Little Rock, Arkansas? Or that stream into the state, the need for a Catholicism is the oldest form of Christi- new German-speaking parish became anity in the state of Arkansas? Arkansas apparent. Fitzgerald responded by docertainly has a long and rich history of nating land and money in order to build Catholicism. the church. Construction of the first Part of that long-standing history building began in September 1884. The stems from St. Edward Catholic Church, 2-story, 40 ft. by 90 ft. wooden building located in Little Rock, the capital of Ar- would serve as a church, school and reckansas. St. Edward Catholic Church is tory. The initial building was dedicated part of the second Catholic parish to be in August 1885 as St. Edward Catholic established in Little Rock. It began to Church in honor of the patron saint, Fitzaccommodate increased German settle- gerald. ment in Arkansas during the 1870s. Its Fitzgerald suffered a stroke in Janfirst building was dedicated in August uary 1900 and became paralyzed. He 1885 as St. Edward Catholic Church in later died at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hot honor of the patron saint of Little Rock, Springs at the age of 73 and is buried in Bishop Edward Fitzgerald. a crypt under Cathedral of St. Andrew.

MOTHER’S DAY SALE BEGINS APRIL 27TH

M cAuley Fine Jewelry Watchmaker and Jewelers On Site Open Tuesday-Friday 10-6 • Saturday 10-4 813-689-8124 • Oakfield Drive, Brandon

(Located in the Atlantic Village Plaza, Kings Avenue & Oakfield Drive)

May 2021

THE STEIN & VINE OPENS BIN + BOARD—CASUAL DINING AT ITS FINEST

By Brian Bokor

The Stein & Vine has The newly opened carved out a niche in Bin + Board is now fothe Brandon/Riverview cusing on growing its dining scene by offerwine-centric concept. ing not only a revolving Lacey said that feamenu unlike any othtures coming soon will er where the quality include “a wine club and consistency of the where members will dishes are always at receive hand-selected the forefront, but also bottles monthly along an unrivaled craft beer with invitations to exselection. Founded and clusive events.” Also, owned by Ty and Lac“vendors will be invited ey Mathis, the couple to host tastings where knew they wanted to you will be able to Ty and Lacey Mathis, owners of Branexpand on their brand learn more about their don-favorite Stein and Vine, recently while at the same time wine and which foods opened a new concept, Bin + Board, in the offer their guests somepair best.” To-go charsame plaza. thing different, and in cuterie selections will late 2020, they opened be available, whereBin + Board. Both can be in you’ll be able to pick found in Kings Row Shopup plates of your favorite ping Center on the southfoods and drinks and enjoy west corner Bloomingdale the Bin + Board experience Ave. and Kings Ave. wherever you’d like.

Since 2012, The Stein & Vine has been Currently open Wednesday through the go-to spot for many when Mathis Saturday, Lacey and Ty have plans to open renovated the old Pirates Cove and later Bin + Board on Sundays soon to feature expanded into Brandon’s first and most a special brunch menu. “We would like to successful gastropub. His background at thank our employees for their hard work Pepin Distributing connected him with during the past 12 months as well as the brewers around town, which is the se- community for supporting not only our cret to why the pub receives many hard- restaurants, but also all the other small to-find selections and one-offs. Ty’s cre- businesses in the area. Your support has ativity in the kitchen comes through on meant a lot to us and has allowed us and a daily basis with a seemingly endless many other small businesses in our area selection of chef special soups, salads, to survive,” they said. appetizers, sandwiches and main courses Visit steinandvine.com, binandboard. to choose from, along with items on the com or their Facebook pages for more everyday menu. information.

Volume 25 | Issue 05

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Page 19

Celebrating 40 Years Serving our Community Thinking it’s time for a new roof?

Do you think your roof may have wind damage?

DO NOT REPLACE YOUR ROOF WITHOUT LETTING US TAKE A LOOK!

ROOF REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT SERVICES

813-643-8333

www.CertifiedRoofers.com Family owned business serving our neighbors for 40 years! <<< Alex (Owner) with his sons...

“Our next generation of roofers!”

Page 20

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

May 2021

Page 21

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 4

SUMMER CAMPS OFFER MANY OPTIONS TO KEEP KIDS ACTIVE AND ENGAGED Have you got the calendar ready?

Last summer, most children’s fun plans were affected by the pandemic, but this year, organizations all over the area are ready to keep children active, engaged and, most importantly, safe during the time off school.

The staff at the Osprey Observer has collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created this special pull-out section.

We asked local camps what they are doing to keep students healthy while giving them the summer of fun they deserve.

At Music Showcase, music and theater take the stage, and so can your child. Musicals will be offered where your child can hold starring roles in popular musicals offered by the Florida Academy of Performing Arts for children ages 5 and up.

The local YMCAs will offer many types of camps at its great summer camp location, Camp Cristina in Riverview, which mixes fun along with great learning experiences. With plenty of choices, there is something for everyone.

A Child’s Haven offers kitchen-pre-

pared meals and various activities for children in kindergarten through fifth grade.

Weekly themes utilizing age-specific activities and field trips are what make BSAC’s Camp High 5 unique.

Specialty camps for soccer (Florida Hawks FC), baseball (Ostingers Academy)

basketball and flag football (FishHawk Fellowship Church) and art (Center Place) also offer great opportunities for creative and athletic summer learning.

Kids ‘R’ Kids at Circa FishHawk and Valrico offer full and half-day summer fun with weekly field trips and themes.

What better skill to learn in the summer than scuba diving and Trilogy Dive Center makes it easy with a week-long course for children 10 and older with pick up from BSAC in Brandon.

After 16 years of bringing successful STEM camps to the Brandon area, Tech-

Playzone will host camps this year at the newly reopened Center Place and virtually for families who prefer to stay at home.

For dates, prices and registration information on these camps and more, turn the pages, enjoy this special section and have a great summer. Our staff has also compiled information on the COVID-19 policies from temperature checks to sanitation procedures for these camps to help you feel confident on where you want to send your children this summer.

Watch for our Summer Camp Sweepstakes link where the Osprey Observer will buy your child a week of camp at the summer camp of your choice! Enter now by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp Free’) contest@ospreyobserver.com.

Did we miss a great summer camp option?

Let us know by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp’) kquesada@ ospreyobserver.com and we will be sure to add it to our full listing online.

Have a great summer of fun!

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

April 2021

FLORIDA ACADEMY OF THE PERFORMING ARTS AT MUSIC SHOWCASE HOSTS A VARIETY OF SUMMER CAMP PROGRAMS

By Kelly Wise Valdes Summer is right around the corner and campers can sign up for music-oriented many families are already looking for fun camps where they can experience differsummer camp activities for their children. ent instruments, voice, acting, dance and Summer camps build memories and friend- art. Camps are structured by age, ability ships that can last a lifetime. If you have and interests. The benefits of participating an aspiring actor, musician or entertainer in arts education include improved acain your family, demic performance and then the Floriincreased self-esteem. da Academy of Danielle Sanchez, the Performing director of FAOPA, is Arts (FAOhappy to offer families PA) at Music programs that allow Showcase is their children a unique exactly what summer camp you’re looking experience. for.

“It’s great seeTo keep eving the students The Florida Academy of the eryone safe, many progress so Performing Arts is hosting protocols are be- its annual summer camp quickly in their ing implemented, programs at Music Showcase in Brandon. Regis- craft, come together as including masks, a team and form friendtration begins in mid-March. limited camp sizes ships that last a lifetime,” and temperature checks. Students will be said Sanchez. “We hear from the parents able to bring their own food and beverages and students that they like the energy, the (labeled with their name). professionalism, the sense of inclusion and There are many camp options, including belonging, the opportunity to work with full and half-day camps for musical theater talented and loving directors and the variwith full performances at the end and cos- ety of programming and activities.” tumes, props and set designs. Some of the The Florida Academy of Performing Arts musicals that will be performed are Honk is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that Jr., Singing in the Rain Jr., Alice in Wonder- was established to support the performing land Jr., Newsies Jr., Little Mermaid, Musi- arts through programs at the academy and cal Revue - Disney on Broadway, Broadway in the community. for the Decades and The Addams Family.

Camp registration opens in mid-March.

Also offered is an a cappella camp, For further details, visit www.FAOPA.org Broadway boot camp, acting intensives or call 490-2787. Music Showcase is locatand acting improv camp. In addition, ed at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

Florida Hawks FC Summer Camp

“Soccer Fun with Coach Juan”

Page 22

BSAC’S SUMMER CAMP PRESENTS THIS YEAR’S THEME: PEACE, LOVE AND HIGH 5

By Hayley Fedor

Let the fun families during and games bethe pandemic. gin because the Hand sanitizing Brandon Sports stations will and Aquatic be provided Center (BSAC) throughout the is getting ready property and to welcome masks are manback children datory upon grades K 5 entry. Both parthrough sixth ticipants and for Camp High staff will also 5 this summer. undergo a temBSAC is doperature check ing something at the start of special with the each day at camp this year the camp. and taking a In light Camp High 5 keeps children Retro Approach of the panengaged and energized with a to their camp demic, this variety of activities. theme.

Peace, summer, Love & High5 Kicks off June 1st, 2021.

BSAC will Each week will feature a different theme be capping based off of a musical era, starting in the the camp at 50s and working all the way up to today.

200 particiAt BSAC and through Camp High 5, chil- pants. dren are able to participate in a variety of Camp High 5 will begin on Monday, June recreations that are based around aquat- 1st and will be in session on weekdays, ics, arts and crafts as well as sports.

Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

“A lot of what our kids do is the aquatic at BSAC, which is located at 405 Beverly time so they’re in the pool, but they’re also Blvd. in Brandon. Registration is currently outdoors participating in sports and rec- open and will be available until each week reational activities,” said Chuck Burgess, of the camp has reached its capacity.

CEO. To register your child for camp or to find Additionally, the staff at BSAC are taking out more information about Camp High 5 extra preventative measures this summer and the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Cento ensure the safety of participants and ter, visit https://www.mybsac.org/camp.

WWW.CAMPOSPREY.COM -6860

941-928

Boys and Girls

born between 2014 and 2009 July 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 2021 9.00 am to 1.00 pm

t pt Secre Best Ke pa Bay! in Tam

g CDC Followinlines Guide

All-Inclusive Kids Overnight Adventure Camp For Ages 7-15 $525 Week - Sunday 4pm - Saturday 10am Day Camp Available: Mon - Fri 8 am to 6 pm $250 - By the day $50 Breakfast and lunch is provided.

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

Our instructors have 30 years combined professional playing and coaching experience.

Session 1 Session 2 June 7-11 (M-F) June 21-25 (M-F)

Session 3 July 12- 16 (M-F)

Session 4 July 26- 30 (M-F)

Location:

$195.00 if registered before April 15, 2021 $225.00 if registered after April 15, 2021 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 • 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

M-W Ostingers Academy • 8711 Lithia Pinecrest Road Th-F Field for games and other activities Age Group: 7 - 14 yrs Space is Limited Register Early Time: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm to hold your spot!

Cost: $235/camper $200/ multi camp or multi child discount *Must register for multi camp discount all at once

Daily Instruction • Games • Pitching/Catching Fundamentals Addressed • Drills For More Information:

Call 813.737.3000 or visit our website at www.OstingBaseball.com

Page 23

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 4

SAFE AND FUN SUMMER CAMPS AT YMCA

KIDS ‘R’ KIDS PREPARES FOR A FUN SUMMER

By Libby Hopkins

By Libby Hopkins

Camp 2021, based on recommendations from the CDC and local health officials come June,” Llerena said.

“We are in constant communiYMCA is gearing up for a safe, fun summer with their upcomcation with our ing camps. Many COVID-19 safety protocols are in place to camper families ensure campers are safe while attending camps this summer. and will send “Summer is the ideal time for kids to get them vital information up, get out and explore. But, for some kids, and policies about all summer means no access to recreational the extra precautions we are taking to preand educational activities. That’s why the vent the spread of COVID-19 at our camps.

Tampa YMCA offers summer camp, to We want parents to feel as comfortable as make sure kids and teens in the Tampa Bay possible with our camping process.” area are adventurous, active and healthy Before children and staff are checked in, this summer,” said Tampa Metropolitan their temperatures are taken for the safeArea YMCA Senior Communications Directy and well-being of others in the camp. tor Lalita Llerena. “At the YMCA, we know Those running a temperature of 100.4-plus that when kids accomplish more, make new degrees cannot attend. There will also be friends and feel like they belong, they are staggered curbside check-in. developing the skills they need to be sucCampers will remain in same low ratio cessful in life.” groups throughout the week. There will Tampa YMCA is excited to provide a safe, be “individual and spaced out activities to fun day camp program this summer. “YMCA practice safe social distancing where posSummer Camp is led by a team of kind, sible when inside and limited sharing of trustworthy individuals committed to cresupplies,” Llerena said.

“There will be ample ating a safe place for campers to practice access to handwashing and hand sanitizsocial skills and character values,” Llerena er stations, especially at check-in, before said. “Our values-based camp curriculum meals and after restroom use.

YMCA staff will help campers develop self-reliance, a intentionally teach and encourage good love for the outdoors, positive attitudes and values that build character and leadership, hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette and all amidst the fun of swimming, creative follow a strict sick child/staff policy.” In arts, crafts, sports, outdoor nature educa- Hillsborough County, all staff and members (ages 5 and up) are required to wear a face tion and field games.”

The YMCA is focused on COVID-19 safe- covering indoors while not exercising or ty for its summer camps as well. “Safety participating in youth sports.

Visit www.tampaymca.org/letscamp. protocols will continue for YMCA Summer

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy pro- Kids is excited to kick off Summer Camp vides a secure, nurturing and educational Focus on Fun,” Fernandes said. “Week after environment for children. Its school is a week of awesome activities are designed place for children to bloom into responsi- around a variety of engaging themes. It’s ble, considerate and contributing members all about double the fun, double the smiles of society. “With a and double the memories.” love of children at Each week of camp offers our core, each Kids a different theme and each ‘R’ Kids facility is camp has COVID-19 safety family-owned and protocols in place. “We will operated by local continue to monitor this residents to enrapidly evolving situation sure a solid sense and follow the recommenof community,” dations of the World Health said Owner Ben Organization, Public Health Fernandes. “Kids Departments, CDC, Child ‘R’ Kids Learning Care Licensing, state and loKids ‘R’ Kids offers a variety of weekly Academies are na- themed summer camps. All COVID-19 cal officials,” Fernandes said. tionally renowned “The safety and well-being of safety protocols and procedures are and our academy in place to ensure campers’ safety this the children in our care, their summer. is proud to be part families and our staff are our of your community. We desire the abso- highest priority and is at the core of our lute best for the children in our care and, Kids ‘R’ Kids mission and policies. We have therefore, we provide a safe and secure, been the pioneers in providing the best state-of-the-art environment with on-site in safety features and procedures, and owners.” we will continue to lead the way. We are COVID-19 safety is a priority with Fer- keeping our camp sizes small, masks are nandes and his staff. “During the pandem- required indoors and social distancing will ic, we went virtual,” Fernandes said. “Now be practiced.” we are focusing on our kids having a safe Kids ‘R’ Kids camps will be offered from and fun summer. We know a lot of our kids Tuesday, June 1 through Friday, August had cabin fever over the last few months 6. Spaces are limited for their camps. If and now we want them to get outside and you’d like to learn more about Kids ‘R’ Kids’ enjoy their summer.” camps, visit www.kidsrkids.com/valrico/ Kids ‘R’ Kids started their summer pro- programs/summer-camp or call 657-6200. grams in 2004 and since then it has grown The campus is located at 4321 Lynx Paw to offer a variety of programming. “Kids ‘R’ Trl. in Valrico.

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

April 2021

FishHawk Fellowship Church Offers Basketball And More Sports lovers take note. FishHawk Fellowship Church is hosting a sports camp this summer, which will include soccer, flag football and basketball.

In order to prioritize safety, the camp will be limited to 100 attendees and masks will be mandated during sign-in and checkin, but playtime will not require masks. All camp materials and equipment will be sanitized daily and campers are asked to bring their own snacks.

FishHawk Fellowship Church is located at 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia and can be reached at 655-7431. For more information, visit www.fishhawkfc.org/ sports.

Soccer Fun With Coach Juan If your athlete is looking for a fun way to improve soccer skills this summer, look no further that the Florida Hawks Futbol Club’s Soccer Fun with Coach Juan camp taking place from Monday to Friday, July 5-9 at the FishHawk Sports Complex.

The camp is open to boys and girls born between 2009 and 2014.

According to Juan de Brigard, director of coaching, the camp will have a limit of 96 campers and groups no larger than 12 players, with one coach

and one helper, temperature check stations and strict policies about not coming to camp with any symptoms or sharing equipment.

To learn more, visit www.floridahawksfc.com.

Trilogy Dive Center Offers Scuba Certification Camps What better opportunity than a summer camp to learn to scuba dive? Trilogy Dive Center is offering weeklong scuba certification camps at Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) for children 10 and older.

The camp includes transportation from BSAC, classroom academics and all equipment during the class.

COVID-19 protocols include small class sizes (maximum of 12 students), masks required indoors, handwashing and sanitizer stations, temperature checks on arrival and cleaning and sanitization of all equipment.

To learn more, visit www.TrilogyScuba.com or call 425-3500.

Ostingers Invites Baseball Players For Four Camp Sessions With a combined 30 years of professional playing and coaching experience, Ostingers Baseball coaches are ready to provide little athletes with safe fun this summer.

Four weeklong sessions will take place in June and July for players 7-14 years of

K5-5th Grade Arts & Crafts • Friendship Play • Academic Summer Fun • Music Sports & Games • Character & Manners • Ice Cream Social • Pizza Parties Bouncy House & Giant Slide • Outdoor Water Play

$115/wk (Upcoming K5 - 5th Grade Campers)

Includes Weekly Field Trip & All Activities

www.MorningGloryPreschool.org

age. There will be a ratio of no more than 5:1 campers to instructors, allowing for more social distancing, instruction and reps during the camp.

All campers must wear masks while in instruction groupings, even when social distancing. While outside, players can remove their masks if they are able to socially distance themselves during small group work.

There will be hand sanitizing stations and the academy will be disinfected before the day begins and after the day is over each day. When arriving at camp each morning, all campers and instructors will be given a temperature check to make sure there are no issues.

To learn more, visit www.OstingBaseball. com or call 737-3000.

TechPlayzone Celebrates 16 Years Of STEM Camps After 16 years of bringing successful STEM camps to the Brandon area, TechPlayzone will host camps this year at the newly reopened Center Place. Camps will begin in July and will run from 9 a.m.-12 Noon for rising second through fifth grade students. Afternoon sessions with a virtual option will also be available.

COVID-19 protocols include temperature checks, regular sanitization, masks and small group sizes (four to five campers per group all week).

Page 24

To learn more, visit www.techplayzone. com or call 444-2267.

BSAC Highlights Music For Annual Camp Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) is getting ready to welcome back children grades K5 through sixth for Camp High 5 this summer.

BSAC is doing something special with the camp this year by highlighting music and incorporating musical components throughout the event; the grand theme for the summer is called Peace, Love and High 5.

Additionally, the staff at BSAC are taking extra preventative measures this summer to ensure the safety of participants and families during the pandemic. Hand sanitizing stations will be provided throughout the property and masks are mandatory upon entry. Both participants and staff will also undergo a temperature check at the start of each day at the camp.

For more information about Camp High 5 and the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center, visit mybsac.org.

Kids ‘R’ Kids Offers Summer Camp And More Kids ‘R’ Kids started their summer programs in 2004 and since then it has grown to offer a variety of programming.

Page 25

Each week of camp offers a different theme and each camp has COVID-19 safety protocols in place. The organization is continuing to monitor recommendations of the World Health Organization, Public Health Departments, CDC, Child Care Licensing, state and local officials and is keeping camp sizes small, masks are required indoors and social distancing will be practiced.

Kids ‘R’ Kids camps will be offered from Tuesday to Friday, June 1 through August 6.

Spaces are limited for its camps. For more Performing Arts Camp To Be Held At Music Showcase The Florida Academy of the Performing Arts (FAOPA) at Music Showcase will offer many camp options, including full and halfday camps for musical theater with full performances at the end and costumes, props and set designs. Some of the musicals that will be performed are Honk Jr., Singing in the Rain Jr., Alice in Wonderland Jr., Newsies Jr., Little Mermaid, Musical Revue - Disney on Broadway, Broadway for the Decades and The Addams Family.

To keep everyone safe, many protocols are being implemented, including masks, limited camp sizes and temperature checks. Students will be able to bring their own food and beverages (labeled with their name).

For further details, visit www.FAOPA.org

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

or call 490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

YMCA Has Camps For All Following a very successful summer in 2020, where the YMCA safely served more than 12,000 campers across Hillsborough and Eastern Pasco Counties, the Tampa YMCA is excited to provide a safe, fun day camp program this summer. With locations throughout the area offering activities from fishing to arts and crafts and much more, the YMCA has something to offer children ages 6 and older with most interests.

Before children and staff are checked in, their temperatures are taken for the safety and well-being of others in the camp. Those running a temperature of 100.4-plus degrees cannot attend. There will also be staggered curbside check-in.

Lower ratio camp groups spread throughout the whole facility. Campers will remain in their same groups throughout the week.

To learn more about the YMCA Summer Camps or to register, visit www.tampaymca. org/letscamp.

Morning Glory Preschool Offers Weekly Field Trips & More From arts and crafts to friendship parties and academic summer fun, Morning Glory Preschool offers summer fun

for your elementary school-aged child.

Safety measures include masks at all times apart from dining, handwashing, temperature checks and complete daily sanitization of the building.

Children at the camp will enjoy music, sports and games, outdoor water play and pizza parties.

The preschool is located at 6001 Christy Ln., off Bloomingdale Ave. near U.S. 301.

To learn more call 628-0541 or visit www.

MorningGloryPreschool.com.

Camp Osprey Features Safe Adventures An all-inclusive overnight adventure camp, with day camper options, Camp Osprey is opening again this summer with a safe way to keep your kids, ages 7-15, entertained and happy.

The camp, which offers activities such as horseback riding, paintball, high ropes, canoeing, archery, fishing and more, was open last year and is following CDC safety guidelines.

Safety measures include temperature checks, handwashing, sanitization, staff serving meals and water bottles getting washed and bleached daily.

The camp is located at 18050 U.S. 301 in Wimauma and can be reached at 941-

Volume 16, Issue 4

928-6860. For more information, visit www. camposprey.com.

Dance, Music And Theater At The Straz With Patel Conservatory

If your camper is interested in the performing arts, check out the weekly camps offered through the Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center.

The group offers camps and classes for all ages and skill levels with dance, music and theater options.

Masks will be mandatory at the camp and the group will practice social distancing. Regular handwashing is encouraged throughout the day and a hand sanitizer is provided upon entry into the conservatory and located in every classroom. There will be daily temperature checks and a health screening questionnaire required to be complete by all campers and staff, and camp start times are staggered, as is camper drop-off.

The Straz Center has received a seal of approval from Tampa General Hospital’s consulting service, TGH Prevention Response Outreach (TPRO), for campus-wide reopening protocols.

To learn more, visit www.patelconservatory.org or call 222-1040.

April 2021

For ages 8 - 99

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 26

Weekly Themed Horse Back Riding Camps Hands On Experience & Education

Come learn about: RIDING • GROOMING The Learning Experience Monday - Friday Camps 9 A.Is M. toNow 2 P.M. Enrolling For Summer Fun

With Friday Educational Field Trips!

For safe, summer fun and learning, check out The Learning Experience in FishHawk.

Now enrolling for the summer, The Learning Experience is following state regulations for camp size and social distancing based on age groups. All staff members are required to wear masks and parents must also wear them when dropping off and picking up their children. Masks are optional for children 3 and older.

Two snacks and one lunch are provided and handwashing stations and sanitizers are available.

Daily Sanitation protocols are enforced, including weekly electrostatic spraying.

There are also daily temperature checks for both children and staff.

The camp is located at 16232 Bayberry Glen Dr. in Lithia. Call 681-5544 for more information.

open to ages 8 to 99, is located only 10 minutes from FishHawk at 4325 E. Keysville Rd. in Lithia. Visit TLCSfarms.com.

A Child’s Haven Offers Fun And Safe Summer Programs With kitchen-prepared meals, weekly themes and a variety of activities, A Child’s Haven in Valrico has a full-time camp for children in kindergarten through fifth grade.

The Florida Gold Seal School has a detailed COVID-19 protocol that includes temperature checks twice a day, handwashing for anyone entering the building and mask expectations for children 5 and older and all teachers and parents. building is also com(Deposit required to reserveThe your spotcamp .) pletely sanitized every day.

T.L.C.’s Gypsy Haven Offers A Child’s Haven is located Hands-On Fun at 1520 Brentwood Do you have Hills Blvd. in Valrico a horse lover at and can be reached at home? If so, check 684-1622. For more out T.L.C.’s Gypsy information, visit www.

Haven’s summer AChildsHavenSchool. camps.

Running com. weekly from late May until early Impact Taekwondo Center OfAugust, the camp offers small groups the fers Learning And Fun opportunity to learn about horses in an Students can learn important life skills outdoor, socially distanced setting. Faciliwhile having fun and staying safe this ties are cleaned regularly and groups are summer at Impact Taekwondo Center. no larger than 10.

Located in Riverview on Boyette Rd., Masks are not required because campthe center is offering a camp that will ers are outside only. The camp, which is

May 31st - August 2nd We are just ten minutes east of FishHawk!

4325 Keysvil e Rd., Lithia Call Tammi at 813.842.4236 or email TLCS2867@aol.com VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT:

TLCSFARMS.COM

teach self-defense, Taekwondo skills, field trips and the opportunity to make new friends.

Masks will be worn in c l a s s rooms and where a six-foot physical distance can not be maintained. There will be sanitizer in each classroom and hands will be washed or sanitized after each activity and before lunch and snacks. There will also be temperature checks at drop-off and after lunch. Call 952-8053 or visit www.impacttkdriverview.com.

Dancing For Donations Teaches All Abilities Are you looking for a summer experience like no other? Dancing for Donations offers classes and activities that are all-inclusive, serving kids of all abilities. Children with special needs are not separated from their peers, but instead accommodated in any way they may need (noise-canceling headphones, social stories, buddy, assistance with class/camps activities). It also welcomes therapists to join in. In addition to accommodating students where they are at, the classes teach all children to be accepting of one another and embrace differences. The hope is to help grow confidence, friend-

ships, acceptance and understanding through dance and other inclusive activities.

To learn more, visit dancing4donations.org or call 601-3009.

Sports And More At The MAC Gym The MAC Gym in Brandon is offering basketball, volleyball and soccer camps in June and July. The camps are open for 7 to 14-year-olds, varying by camp.

The camps run from 9 a.m.-12 Noon, with breaks for snack and water available.

The MAC Gym has worked hard to stay COVID-free and has made precautions to keep its members safe. Again this year, its camps will be modified to help implement physical distancing as much as possible.

In addition, temperatures will be checked daily.

To learn more or to get the registra-

tion form, visit https://themacgym.org/ summer-sports-camps/. The MAC Gym is located at 216 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon and can be reached at 315-3280.

Page 27

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

CEDARKIRK CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF FAITH BUILDING & FUN

By Taylor Wells

Founded in the summer 12th grade, families of 1971, Cedarkirk, a local and adults with intelyear-round Presbyterian lectual and developcamp and conference cenmental disabilities. The ter, is celebrating its 50th programs have a varianniversary. It is a place ety of activities, which apart where individuals and can include Bible study, groups can experience spiriworshiping together, tual growth and renewal as leadership training, well as faith-building fun, kayaking, campfires, worship and exciting activarts and crafts, field ities in 170 acres of woodgames, swimming, arlands, wetlands and uplands. chery and more.

“We see our mission as A father and daughter get geared up for Shick said that, as a a trip down the zip line. giving people a place where former camper of Cethey can step out of the busyness and stress darkirk, “I learned my faith at church, but I and the routines of their everyday life and learned to live it at Cedarkirk, and so I think, spend some time in the woods building com- for me, one of the most special things [about munity and drawing close to God,” said Mat- Cedarkirk] is finding out how to put into thew Shick, executive director of Cedarkirk. practice what it is that we believe.”

According to its website, “Our facilities He also thinks the camp is special because, are used for retreats, meetings, conferences, as a camper, he lived alongside others from leadership training, camping, outdoor ex- an entirely different socioeconomic bracket, periences and more. We serve a variety of letting him understand the differences in church-related groups, family reunions, pub- their lives, but also find many commonalities lic and private schools, community service and connect with them. agencies and nonprofit organizations.”

For the future, Cedarkirk is campaigning Cedarkirk is open, but only for small to raise $4 million for a new office wing, groups, and it is requiring social distancing new residential building and new dining hall, and masks when in groups, among other which will have more space and better acsafety procedures. Cedarkirk could not offer cessibility. summer camp in 2020, but it is glad to welCedarkirk is located at 1920 Streetman come guests back this year, though at 50 Dr. in Lithia on the Alafia River. Call 685percent capacity.

4224 or visit https://cedarkirk.org/, www.

Cedarkirk has several camp programs for facebook.com/cedarkirk/ or www.instadifferent groups, including those in first to gram.com/cedarkirk/.

Volume 16, Issue 4

THE BLOOMINGDALE YOUTH SPORTS ASSOCIATION CHARTERS A BAMBINO BUDDY-BALL LEAGUE

By Lily Belcher

The Bloomingdale 5 to 20-year-olds to parYouth Sports Assoticipate in short, noncomciation is more than petitive games to encourjust a home to travel age physical activity and baseball and softball friendships among teamteams, it is an orgamates. Games last four nization that proinnings or 90 minutes vides athletes with (whichever comes first) the opportunity to and Bambino Buddy-Ball foster their love of emphasizes the relaxed sports in a safe and feel of the games by proencouraging environhibiting scorekeeping and ment. One of the procompetition between grams offered by the managers.

Through the Bambino Buddy-Ball volunteer assists Bloomingdale Youth relaxed and friendly atathlete during his at-bat.

Sports Association is Bambino Buddy-Ball. mosphere of the games, athletes and budBambino Buddy-Ball was founded in dies experience constructive and sports2000 to “encompass players who are ei- manlike friendships to “develop confidence ther physically and/or mentally challenged and positive self-esteem.” and yearn to play the game of softball and In many divisions, players are assigned baseball.” a buddy—a volunteer (usually a family The program is part of the Babe Ruth member or high school student) to assist League, which is affiliated with the base- the players with fielding, batting and basball and softball leagues of the Blooming- erunning during the games. Parents of the dale Youth Sports Association. The Babe athletes can indicate whether their child Ruth League celebrates its 70th anniver- will need a buddy and the extent to which sary this year and is one of the premier the buddy will have to assist their athlete baseball and softball leagues for children on the field. High school volunteers receive worldwide. service hours by assisting players and the “Babe was a man who loved children and team throughout the season, which conbaseball,” Claire Ruth, the second wife of sists of weekly games. baseball legend Babe Ruth, said. “He could For more information on Bambino Budreceive no greater tribute than to have a dy-Ball or the Bloomingdale Youth Sports youth baseball program named after him.” Association, visit bysafl.com or email bysaThe Bambino Buddy-Ball division allows florida@gmail.com.

Summer Camp 2021 5 Weeks of Camp Center Place Brandon 619 Vonderburg Dr, Suite B Brandon, FL 33511

9am - 12noon

Rising 2nd-5th Grade Campers

3pm - 5pm Virtual Camp

Virbela and Minecraft

$150.00 per week Mon-Fri Starting: July 5th July 12th July 19th July 26th Aug 2nd

License# CHC433643

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

April 2021

Page 28

ARTISTS RETURN HOME TO CENTER PLACE

By Libby Hopkins

Former Center Place artists Greg Manley, Judy Johnson, Ron Grote, Meletha Everett and Doreen Donovan, haven’t taught classes at Center Place for more than a year or two.

They are all thrilled that they can again teach art at Center Place. Classes resumed on April 5 this year.

When the new and former artists of Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association came together for a meeting on March 12 of this year to discuss new spring programming at the center, there was one statement that was said over and over again: “I feel like I’ve come home.”

Many of the former artists, such as Greg Manley, Doreen Donovan, Judy Johnson, Ron Grote and Meletha Everett, haven’t taught classes at Center Place for more than a year or two. “I’m just happy to be back at Center Place,” Manley said. “It’s been a part of me for so long and I’m thrilled to be back because our community needs a place to do art. Especially with what everyone has been through with the pandemic.”

Manley will be offering three adult painting classes on Monday. They are Contemporary Acrylic Painting, Mixed Media 2-Dimensional Art and an Art Therapy class.

Donovan is thrilled to be teaching her Pixie Painters and Jump Start to Art children’s classes at Center Place on Tuesday afternoons. “I am so excited to be back and to see the kids taking art classes again at Center Place,” Donovan said. “I’m also thrilled that the Brandon League of Fine Arts can call Center Place their home again.

I know the league is excited about

having their programming back at the center as well.”

Johnson and Everett are two of the original art instructors from when Center Place first opened.

“I was one of the first few teachers here at Center Place,” Everett said. “I have seen the center go through many transformations and I’m happy that it will continue to be a part of the community.” Everett will again be teaching her adult Watercolors class on Thursday mornings from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Johnson will be teaching her adult Oil Painting class on Wednesday mornings from 9:30 a.m. to 12 Noon. “I’m

CHRISTIAN

EDUCATION DIRECTORY

just happy to be teaching again,” Johnson said. “I can’t wait to see my former students, and hopefully some new ones too.”

Grote is looking forward to returning to teaching his Graphite Drawing and Colored Pencil Drawing classes for teens and adults on Tuesdays. “I’m happy that the center will still be a part of the community,” Grote said.

“I’m also happy to be doing art again at Center Place.”

All of the classes offered at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association cost $45 for four sessions. If you are interested in taking any of the art classes mentioned, please call Center Place at 685-8888 to register for a class.

Christian Academy Ages 1-11 Bible-Based Teaching olling Individualized Educational Program Enr w! o N After School Care Summer Programs To Schedule a Tour, Call Adunola Steen at 813-319-5862 Located on 301 S. in Riverview

www.tsop-academy.org

820 College Ave W., Ruskin, FL 813-645-6441 Preschool, VPK, Grades K5-12 www.ruskinchristianschool.net AdvancED, Middle States Association and FACCS accredited

Serving K5-12 & Preschool 1yr-4yr 813-661-0588 5416 Providence Rd. Riverview providencechristianschool.net

BAPTIST ACADEMY

Celebrating Over 50 Years of Kingdom Education 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. Brandon

Half-day Preschool, VPK, & Mother’s Day Out program 402 E. Lumsden Road Brandon, FL 33511 813-684-3118 academy@wpcbrandon.org

Fully Accredited Serving with Excellence for 38 Years!

VPK/Preschool Elementary School • Middle School Before & After Care

689-9183

Now Enrolling !!

Infant through Pre-K4

Call 813-684-9453

www.bsbacademy.com

Now g!

Enrollin

Over 4in0 yrs Christian Education

Inspire. Teach. Minister.

Preschool • VPK • Half-day Kindergarten Before and After Care • Wee Play Offering early childhood education in a loving, warm Christian environment for over 45 years.

(813) 689-9482

120 N. Knights Avenue • Brandon, FL 33510 www.newhopeearlylearning.com

Small, Caring Environment

ENROLLING STUDENTS VPK/Preschool 3 & 4 Yr Old Before & After Care

Luke 18:16

200 Kingsway Road, Brandon 689-2571 www.apostleslutheran.net

Faith Christian Academy Preschool

Now Enrolling Ages 6 weeks - 5 years

Grades K-12

Accepting Students with IEPs

Now Enrolling Two Locations

K-8th Grades

*Meals, Diapers and Formula Included* 1202 S. Collins Street. | Plant City, FL 33563

1204 S. Lenna Ave, Seffner 13498 US Hwy 301 South, Riverview

813.661.4200

813.473.2090

www.fcapc.com

WWW.LIVINGSTONESHOOLS.ORG

Grades PK-12

St. Stephen Catholic School

Offering Fall VPK

• Providing Quality Education • Early Childhood Programs (3 & 4 yr. olds) • Elementary Education (Kindergarten thru 5th) • Middle School Education (6 thru 8th grade)

10424 Saint Stephen Circle Riverview (Off Boyette Road)

(813) 741-9203

www.ststephencatholicschool.org

Inspire. Teach. Minister.

K5-12th Grade Faith Christian Academy of Plant City Now Enrolling/Accepting McKay, Gardiner and Step Up For Students

Dual Enrollment, AP Classes, Sports and Arts

1211 W. Reynolds St. | Plant City, FL 33563

813.473.2090 • www.fcapc.com

CENTRAL BAPTIST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL “Distinctly Christian, Academically Excellent” 402 E. Windhorst, Brandon, 33510

813-689-6133 www.cbcslions.com

Accepting Step Up Scholarships

Learn more about how to advertise your school in the Christian Voice education directory! Contact Cammie Yick at cyick@ospreyobserver.com