Vol. 24| Iss. 8 | August 2020
8 8
9
NEW PASTORS RIDE INTO TOWN AT ST. ANDREW’S UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
Hooked On Books By Kelly Wise Valdes
16 Lauren Daigle
18 Fruit of the Spirit
Columns: Grace Notes: Hooked On Books: Crafts For Kids: Faith & Footprints:
04 09 11 15
Reverends Gary and Jayne Rideout recently became the senior pastors at St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church in Brandon. They moved here in July from Winter Park, where they served alongside of each other as co-pastors at First United Methodist Church Winter Park. Gary served for 21 years as an associate pastor and Jayne served for 16, also as an associate. “That is highly unusual for two United Methodist pastors to serve in one appointment for so long,” said Gary. “When our youngest daughter began her senior year of high school, we knew the Florida Conference would be moving us. We were appointed to St. Andrew’s as co-lead pastors, which is new for this church.” Gary grew up in Evansville, Indiana and Jayne hails from Dearborn, Michigan. Gary
Reverends Gary and Jayne Rideout are the new lead co-pastors at St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church in Brandon.
lived much of his adult life in Dallas, Texas and Jayne previously lived in Florida in her early 20s. They both met while attending Asbury Theological Seminary in Kentucky and after graduation they moved to Florida 21 years ago. They have two daughters who are now attending college at the University of Florida. Gary and Jayne have always worked together. “Our offices have also always been next to each other,” said Gary. “We believe we work well together because while we both have the same calling to be a United Methodist pastor, we have very different
skill sets and personalities.” The Rideouts also believe that because they met and married later in life, it has allowed them been able to appreciate each other’s differences rather than trying to change each other. Their goal is figure out how their unique giftedness can best be used at St. Andrew’s. Gary is excited to connect to the people of St. Andrew’s and work together as they move forward fulfilling the vision and the mission of the church. Jayne is most excited to also get to know the St. Andrew’s family and to preach and plan worship experiences that will help lead people to a closer relationship to Jesus Christ. St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church is located at 3315 S. Bryan Rd. in Brandon. For more information, visit www.saumc. net or call 689-6849. Follow the church on Facebook by searching for St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church Brandon.
HOLY INNOCENTS’ EPISCOPAL CHURCH FEEDING SOULS AND BODIES
By Kelly Wise Valdes
The Transforming Lives for Christ (TLC) Feeding Ministry efforts at Holy Innocents’. She is amazed at all the help being at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church in Valrico is providing given by the community. nourishing hot meals to those in need in the Brandon, Valrico “We have three major fundraisers that solely support the TLC and Dover areas of Eastern Hillsborough County. Due to the ministry: TopGolf Charity event scheduled Saturday, SeptemCOVID-19 pandemic, the ministry has increased exponentially, ber 26, the 13th annual Whistle Stop Arts & Crafts Show on and the church is excited to be able to provide this blessing to Saturday, November 7 and more recently the Pop-Up Stock-Up the people in the community. event with Sysco frozen foods and Love INC. that was held SatThe ministry began before COVID-19, in January 2020, and urday, June 20 and again Saturday, September 19.” is now the largest and fastest growing ministry in the church, The TLC ministry is always looking for volunteers who rotate serving 200-300 meals twice a month. The goal is to provide services, either cooking, shopping, packing, serving, set up or high-quality hot meals for those that are in need. The meals are clean up. generally a protein (e.g., barbecue chicken quarter), a vegeta“Each distribution requires approximately 20 volunteers, ble, carbohydrate, salad and bread. La Septima Cafe of Branso we are always looking for more, especially as the ministry Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church provides hot meals don generously donates rice for the meals on the last Saturday from two distribution sites through its Transforming expands,” says Herzog. “Our hope is to soon be able to set up taof the month. bles once again and mingle with the people. Sharing time with Lives for Christ (TLC) Feeding Ministry. TLC Ministry Co-Chair Amelie Barry organizes this importthem, listening and letting them know they are loved by God is ant mission with Co-Chair Bill Cox, along with 35-50 volunteers. Barry has been par- the real purpose of our ministry.” ticularly touched by the outpouring of gratitude from the people that this mission is The TLC food ministry distributes meals at two locations. The first is at San Jose Mishelping. sion on 3214 San Jose Mission Dr. in Dover every second Saturday of the month. Meals “There have been times when I have handed a meal to someone and they have been are also distributed the last Saturday of each month at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal so grateful it broke my heart to hear they hadn’t eaten since Tuesday and it was a Church on 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico. Both distributions are from 12 Noon to 2 p.m., Saturday,” said Barry. “People often send feedback via Facebook Messenger about how rain or shine. much they enjoyed the meal and how appreciative they are because they’ve run out of Volunteers are needed to cook, pack, transport and distribute meals while practicing food and are waiting to pick up from a food pantry or for their SNAP benefits to come social distancing and mandated safety measures. If interested, please email Amelie in. One mom was just grateful she didn’t have to cook for her five kids that day!” Barry at amelie.k.barry@gmail.com or Bill Cox at bcox1953@gmail.com. Donna Herzog is the communications contact for TLC and also leads the fundraising For more information, visit www.hiepiscopal.org or call 689-3130.
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
August 2020
Volume 24 | Issue 8
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Page 3
Teen IMPACT Program Seeks Support In Relocating To Providential Office Space By Gwen Rollings
Kagey, executive director of the nonprofit organization, “In 2010, the funding stream from the federal grant was lost due to the change in political climate. IMPACT was then launched as its own 501(c) (3) by Choices, Life Impact Network and Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City.” Another change, due COVID-19, prevented in-person presentations IMPACT students and staff stand in front of the LifeCare and necessitated profesbuilding, which is their new office space. sional films to be made Much has remained the same and available to youth organizations in Hillsmuch has changed since the IMPACT borough and Polk Counties. Program, Inc. began over 20 years ago. The most current change is in its office What remained through two decades are location. Since 2010, Jim and Marilyn the many dedicated people who continue Hough of Hough Financial Services grato extend their support and the hundreds ciously provided office space. Due to the of teens’ lives that have been positively potential growth and possible expansion influenced. for Hough Financial Services, IMPACT Perhaps most importantly, the vision moved out in January. It was homehas remained unchanged: to serve the based then with equipment kept in storcommunity in public and private middle age until, as Kagey said, “God showed us and high schools, churches and communiour next steps.” That happened shortly ty organizations in the area of sexual risk as Choices providentially moved to a new avoidance. Through its Teen IMPACT, location, and the Choices space became Parent Program and Classroom Education, teens are encouraged to say ‘yes’ available again…where it first began. It to healthy relationships and a positive needs supporters to help raise $15,000 future by saying ‘no’ to premarital sex, to cover relocation expenses. Kagey said, “We are so excited about drugs, tobacco and alcohol. the opportunity to ‘come home.’ I can’t The changes include the name of the begin to tell you what a joy it would be prevention program initially established to be back in the space that God has used at LifeCare (now known as Choices). Anfor many years, and we anticipate will gie Kagey became the prevention service continue to be used for His purposes.” director in August 2000. Since that time, Consider becoming a partner by makthe prevention services department being a contribution through the website at came IMPACT. www.whatisimpact.com or by contactIMPACT was able to secure two large, ing Kagey at 264-9368. federally-funded grants. According to
Brown Comfort Systems has been a part of the Apollo Beach community for more than 15 years.
Brown Comfort Systems Has Been Serving The Community For Over 15 Years
By Libby Hopkins
Brown Comfort Systems has been a part of the Apollo Beach community for more than 15 years. Owner Deforest Brown and his team have made it their mission to build a company that will glorify God and provide timely and professional service at each and every customer contact. Brown’s company was built on the principles of integrity and honesty. “We are very genuine in what we do and we really stand behind the work we do for our customers,” Brown said. “We continually build on our foundation as we conduct our business with integrity and ethics. We are members of the SouthShore Business Association and Riverview Chamber of Commerce.” If you ask Brown what he likes most about his business, he’ll tell you it’s his customers’ happiness. “I like the gratification of just making people happy from the work we do for them,” Brown said. “We commit ourselves to providing the quality, variety and convenience our customers come to expect. We foster strong relationships with the diverse people and organizations with whom we work. Through open communi-
cation with our customers and employees, we hold true to the fundamentals that support our growth and stability.” Brown’s business, like many in the area, has had some challenges due to the pandemic, but he has found a way to pivot and keep his business thriving. “We started installing REME HALO® whole home in-duct air purifiers. These systems basically disinfect the air of germs and it kills COVID,” Brown said. “We’ve been installing them in homes and businesses in the community. These systems have been in high demand lately, but we are working on getting more in stock.” Brown is a strong believer in supporting local businesses. “When you support local businesses, it helps everyone in the community grow,” Brown said. “So, keeping things local is very important and I want the community to know we are here for them.” To learn more about the different heating and cooling services offered by Brown Comfort Systems, visit www.brownac. com or contact Brown at 671-2555. The office is located at Commerce Center Blvd. in Apollo Beach.
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Page 4
Grace Notes Betrayed By Debora Coty
August 2020
Plant City Archives And History Center Adds Photographs And Book To Its Collection By Kathy L. Collins
Ever suffered a relationship gone sour? Or experienced a friendship extended, rejected, and then shoved back in your face? Of course you have. We all have. Perhaps your friend betrayed your trust after you’d deemed her safe, allowed yourself to trust her, and let her into your heart. That’s what happened to David. Take a few minutes and read 2 Samuel 15-18. King David’s son Absalom plotted to steal his father’s throne and recruited David’s close friend and trusted advisor, Ahithophel, to help him. Ahithophel spied on David while pretending to be his friend and secretly fed Absalom information to stoke the rebellion. Ouch. It became a full-blown conspiracy of multilayered deceit before the plot culminated in David fleeing the palace for his life, weeping over the betrayal of these two he’d loved. It’s believed that David wrote Psalm 55 during this time of grief. Yep. The feelings David expresses in Psalm 55 sure sound like the way I’ve
felt upon a friend’s betrayal, haven’t you? “I am overwhelmed by my troubles” (verse 2). “Oh, that I had wings like a dove … I would fly away and rest” (verse 6). “It is not an enemy who taunts me – I could bear that … Instead it is you – my equal, my companion and close friend. What good fellowship we enjoyed as we walked together” (verses 12-14). Betrayal leaves raw wounds that take time to heal. The hurt is so heavy, it feels like it’ll crush us. We must morn loss on several different planes at once, all of them difficult. Have you been devastated by the festering, lingering wounds of a friend or family member’s betrayal? Are you ready to ask your heavenly Father for help? Only the Great Healer can replace the anger, bitterness, and regret of betrayal with forgiveness, redemption, and hope. Ask Him. He’ll respond. After all, He knows firsthand what betrayal feels like.
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.
The Plant City Photo Archives & History Center has received some exciting new additions. These include a collection of photographs and a new book. The entire collection of Kenneth Jameson Photography had been donated by Michael Jameson, his son. The collection of 31 boxes containing negatives, prints, and miscellaneous photographic materials dates back nearly four decades. This amounts to neatly 31,000 photographs. Ed Verner, Plant City Photo Archives & History Center president, said, “The new contribution of photos greatly adds to the total collection of the archives and expands its ability to tell the story of the history and heritage of the Greater Plant City community.” Kenneth was born and raised in the Lithia area. Kenneth was a high school reporter and photographer for the Tampa Times and a veteran of United States Army. Jameson was a pioneer in videotaping weddings with his son, Michael. He retired from photography from 2016 and passed away in 2018. The Kenneth collection adds to the Plant City Photo Archives’ collection of work of local photographers. With many individual donations and family papers and documents, the Plant City Photo Archives total collection approaches 180,000, many of which have been digitized for preservation.
The Plant City Photo Archives & History Center is committed to preserving the history of Plant City. With the addition of the Kenneth Jameson Photography collection and a new book by Jim Helms, the center expands its collection.
Jim Helms was born in the 1940s and grew up in Plant City. The Plant City native has written a book called Juvenile Impressions of Plant City – A Collection of Playful Stories. Jim lived on Ferrell St. and then Johnson St. He attended Wilson Elementary, Burney Elementary School and Jackson Elementary School. He graduated with the Plant City High School Class of 1965. Jim also wrote about his grandmother, Zula Helms, who owned and operated the popular Helms Dress Shop on Palmer St. in downtown Plant City. Jim said of the book, “These 35 stories offer a playful telling of my observations and feelings about growing up in Plant City.” The 300-page book by Jim is on sale in the Plant City Photo Archive & History Center gift shop along with a number of other books by local authors. The Plant City Photo Archives & History Center is a not-for-profit history organization. It is located at 106 S. Evers St. in downtown Plant City. For more information, please visit www.plantcityphotoarchives.org.
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August 2020
MISSION BBQ HEROES CUPS BENEFIT HONOR FLIGHT PROGRAM THROUGH AUGUST 10 By Kye Saunders
The Women’s Resource Center recently reopened as Hope for Her.
A Honor Flight 2019 group in Washington D.C.
Mission BBQ, located on 1504 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon, is at it again serving those that serve. Each quarter, the company begins a new partnership with different organizations focused on the care, support and appreciation of our nation’s veterans with it’s refillable cup program. Currently, Mission BBQ is in partnership with the Honor Flight Network. This organization gives World War II veterans the opportunity of a lifetime. Its mission is to send our veterans to Washington D.C. to witness and experience our memorials dedicated to their service at no expense to them. Honor Flight’s NO COST mission is entirely funded through sponsorships, partnerships and donations. Mission BBQ of Brandon is in partnership with Honor Flight’s St. Pete hub, whose next flight has been rescheduled for 2021 due to COVID-19 concerns. Learn more about how our local Honor Flight hub is making a difference by logging onto its website at https://www. honorflightwcf.org. “This is Mission BBQ of Brandon’s first
year partnering with Honor Flight Network,” said Mission BBQ Brand Manager Linda Dotterer. “And with your help we can make sure it won’t be their last.” So, when you go into Mission BBQ of Brandon, make sure to purchase a take home American Heroes cup with your meal. Enjoy a sweet tea or soda in a cup that makes a difference. These cups are available at all locations from now until Monday, August 10. For only $3.99, your cup purchase will send $2 of that purchase directly towards helping the Honor Flight Network in its mission to give veterans the chance to go D.C. and be honored for their service. After your first cup purchase, don’t forget your American Heroes Cup the next time you crave brisket and cornbread, because on return visits to the restaurant you can receive $.99 refills. The cups are available at all Mission BBQ locations from now until August 10, 2020. They sell for $3.99 with $2 of every cup purchase donated to the Honor Flight Network. For more details visit www.mission-bbq.com.
NEW NAME, SAME MISSION:
HOPE FOR HER
OPENS ITS DOORS ONCE AGAIN As more and more organizations return to business as usual, few have been welcomed back in such a way as the nonprofit Hope for Her, formerly known as the Women’s Resource Center. Since opening its doors in 2003, Hope for Her has helped more than 45,000 families in the community. According, www.hopeforher.org, the group’s mission is to work one-on-one with women to help restore their confidence and self-worth, remove barriers to safety and survival and rebuild critical life skills to thrive. In 2019 alone, more than 300 women were able to secure jobs through the center’s employment program. While Hope for Her supplies food and clothing for women in need, Founder Cheryl Hickman and her team of volunteers’ focus doesn’t solely lie in the immediate but long-term success of the women who come through their door. Hickman explained that the reason behind the organization’s name change
By Kye Saunders
is related to clarity. “In May 2019, the Women’s Resource Center of Tampa embarked on a transformational journey to clarify our story and more deeply connect with our families we serve,” said Hickman. “Grounded in our research insights, we now have a new name, logo and website that puts Jesus Christ at the center of our mission and the women we serve at the heart of our work.” Visit www.hopeforher.org to donate, explore volunteer opportunities and much more or follow the group on the Hope for Her Facebook page for weekly updates and stories. Hope for Her is open Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and is located 140 Yarborough Rd. in Brandon. Hickman is very excited about reopening recently. “This first week, being open again, has strengthened our commitment to help women and children in our community that are experiencing crisis and trauma,” she said.
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Volume 24 | Issue 8
The Nested Paintbrush Brings Together Creativity With Courage
By Kelly Wise Valdes
create door hangers for their entire faculty and right now I am working on another schoolwide order, but it’s a secret surprise for their faculty, so I can’t reveal it yet,” said Elkins. Like many other industries, COVID-19 has affected business for Elkins. She is normally extremely busy this time of year with teacher orders, but this year is different. “So many of our teachers at this point just don’t know what the future holds,” said Elkins. “I know this isn’t a forever situation, so I am not panicking.” During the pandemic, Elkins began to focus on a personal art series that she calls ‘Pandemic works.’ Local Artist, wife and mother, Brooke Elkins creates “It started as several doodles unique and custom artwork. on scrap pieces of paper that I shared on my personal Facebook Creativity takes courage, especially during a pandemic. No one knows this page and The Nested Paintbrush Facebook better than local artist, mother and wife page as sort of a tongue-in-cheek take of Brooke Elkins. Elkins uses her special ar- the situations that we, as a country, were tistic talent to create unique pieces of art facing. The lack of toilet paper, the idea through her business, The Nested Paint- of quarantine…but then I started finding myself switching to more serious subjects, brush. “I have always had art in my life,” said and literally just ‘drawing my heart,’” said Elkins. “When I was 11, my mom signed Elkins. On a whim, Elkins painted a piece of me up for classes at Center Place in Branan island girl pressing her forehead to don. I spent the next seven years, every the Statue of Liberty. “I posted it on my Thursday, taking art lessons.” Many of Elkins’ pieces are centered Facebook and within six days it had been around teachers. “A popular request is my shared over 30,000 times and seen by teacher door hangers,” said Elkins. “A lot over 2.5 million people. I was blown away. of teachers have a theme to their room: I was getting messages day and night owls, sports, superheroes, the ocean, etc. I about people asking to buy the piece. Due try to make each piece different and per- to copyright, I could not. I was so touched sonalized. Teachers explain their theme to it had reached the hearts of so many. Evenme and I create a piece reflecting their tually, I had to take the piece down, because it just got to be overwhelming, but theme and paint their name on it.” She has also created artwork pieces I know it is still getting shared and passed in people’s homes, schools and business- along because I still get requests to this es, including canvas art, wreaths and day for it. It makes me happy to know so holiday-themed items. Many of her cre- many were touched by it,” she said. Elkins always welcomes custom reations are locally displayed at the Three quests for pieces. If interested, contact ElBulls Tavern and Brewery, located off Bell kins through her business Facebook page, Shoals Rd. in Valrico. “Last year, Cimino Elementary had me The Nested Paintbrush.
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Volume 24 | Issue 8
Page 7
Pastor’s Corner Jomo Cousins, PhD
It Doesn’t Hurt To Ask By Pastor Jomo Cousins, PhD
1 Chronicles 4:10 (AMP) 10 Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, saying, “Oh that You would indeed bless me and enlarge my border [property], and that Your hand would be with me, and You would keep me from evil so that it does not hurt me!” And God granted his request. The Prayer of Jabez is a powerful testimony of not allowing your past to determine your future. His mother named him Jabez, meaning “I gave birth to him in pain,” and it also means ‘sorrow maker.’ Can you imagine being named pain? I have seen so many people hindered in life through various things that had nothing to do with them. Jabez had nothing to do with what caused his mother her pain. She was in pain because she was pregnant and in labor. Her pain was not his plight. Her pregnancy was a situation created between her and Jabez’s father. There are so many people in life dealing with the challenges and shortcomings of people they’re connected to. The first thing that Jabez asked God for was the blessing. The blessing is the empowerment to prosper.
The second thing that Jabez asked of God was to expand his territory. The Bible is a spiritual book on kingdom real estate. All of its teachings place emphasis on the expansion of God’s territory. God wants us to expand His territory so we can expand His influence on the earth. The third thing that Jabez asked for was for God’s hand to be with him. Believers we could do nothing without God, and we need God’s hand on everything we do in this life. If God’s hand is on what we’re doing, nothing can stop us. Jabez was asking for God’s wisdom and God’s guidance in his daily living. His final request was for God’s protection. Believers, the devil is a genuine enemy. John 10:10 tells us, “the devil comes to steal, kill, and destroy.” On a daily basis, we don’t know what life has in store. The hedge of God’s protection is essential. The Bible says, “and God answered his prayer.” Except from: Prayer Life: The Conversation, Page 84
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BUSCH GARDENS WELCOMES NEW MALE BABY GIRAFFE TO HERD
August 2020
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Busch Gardens giraffe Bea recently gave birth to a baby at the park.
The Busch Gardens staff and giraffe herd welcomed a new baby boy earlier this month. The baby’s mother, Bea, is known by the internet as the best friend of Wilma the Ostrich. Bea and Wilma are some of the many animals born at Busch Gardens that now live in the park’s 65-arce Serengeti Plain exhibit. But don’t worry, this is not an exhibit only for our long-necked animal friends, like Bea and Wilma, the area is also home to elephants, rhinos and now a baby giraffe. After a 15-month long pregnancy, Bea gave birth to her son standing up. Although, it is a 6-foot drop to the ground after the baby finally emerges, Bea and her son are healthy and bonding.
So, when can we see mother and son on the Serengeti Express train that goes around the park? “Right now, the most important thing for Bea and her calf is to spend time bonding together. The calf and his mother will rejoin the herd on the Serengeti plain in a couple months,” said Rebecca Romzek, Busch Gardens public relations representative. If the wait feels too long, then don’t worry, you can receive updates on Bea and her baby along with all of the other wonderful animals at the park through Busch Gardens’ Twitter, Instagram and Facebook pages as well as its website, www.buschgardens.org. Despite the challenges COVID-19 brought to all business, Busch Gardens hasn’t changed its dedication to its animals and guests. “At Busch Gardens, the safety of our guests, employees and animals has always been our top priority. Even during these unusual times, our animals continue to enjoy world-class care from their dedicated teams of animal experts,” said Romzek. These are the same team of experts that helped Bea welcome in her new son safely into the world.
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Volume 24 | Issue 8
Page 9
Calm In The Midst Of Chaos
By Kelly Wise Valdes
As we enter into August, many still may be struggling with what many are calling our ‘new normal.’ Entering into the unknown and uncertainty can cause anxiety and unrest in even the best of us. Being a Christian does not exempt us from the human fears, but it does give us a place to go to find answers, peace and comfort. We are not alone in our nervousness. We have the love of the One who has overcome anxiety. Jesus knew what it felt like to be overwhelmed. He understands pain and suffering. God will meet you where you are and provide you the peace your heart and mind need. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7.
Fight Your Fears: Trusting God’s Character and Promises When You Are Afraid By Kristen Wetherell Everybody has fears—and anxiety about those fears. We worry about the future, our health, job, our family and more. God commands us in the Bible not to be afraid, but how is that possible? Exploring and unpacking 10 of the Lord’s greatest promises, this book provides practical tools to help you overcome the troubled thoughts stealing your joy.
Anxious for Nothing: Finding Calm in a Chaotic World By Max Lucado Over the past few decades, studies have shown that Americans are the most anxious people in the world. We take the most medication for it, see doctors to treat it and spend fortunes trying to relieve it. How have we let our fears get the better of us? This book leads readers to reflect on the promises of God and contains an antidote for anxiety that will help you develop a mindset of resilience.
Putting an X Through Anxiety: Breaking Free from the Grip of Worry and Stress By Louie Giglio
Can I Just Hide in Bed ’Til Jesus Comes Back?: Facing Life with Courage, Not Comforters By Martha Bolton, Christin Fighting anxiety can be so overwhelm- Ditchfield
ing it makes you feel like David confronting Goliath. But this book explains how you can slay that giant. Assuring you that God has already won the battle, readers will learn how to be equipped with the cross of Jesus to help face fears, let it go and trust that God’s got your back.
This faith-based book faces down the fear, depression and unfulfilled dreams that cripple many women to the point of wanting to crawl in bed—for the rest of their lives. Compiled as a collection of short, mostly humorous and warmhearted stories, it offers practical, concrete steps to help you move forward when you are ready.
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Page 10
August 2020
MUNZEE: A FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR ACTIVITY, PERFECT FOR QUARANTINE By Dylan Quesada
Munzee, a virtual treasure hunt game, can be played throughout the Eastern Hillsborough County area. Here, Adam Abadi captures a Greenie Munzee while biking around his neighborhood.
During these hard times of quarantine and social distancing, most people have felt cooped up in their home with not much to do. The Abadi family found a fun and exciting way to get out of the house, get exercise and cure their boredom. “At the start, I thought this break would be very boring and isolated,” said Adam Abadi. “But then we found Munzee and it gave me something fun to do outside.” The treasure hunting app known as ‘Munzee’ has helped many people get up and out of the house on real-life treasure hunts. The Abadi family found Munzee from a Facebook post by a friend, and
knew that it would help their family of four, with their kids, Adam (12) and Alex (10), during these tough times. Hunters start by downloading a free app called Munzee, found on the App Store and Google Play. From there, you create an account by providing your email and creating a username and a password. You then find Munzees close to you, which isn’t hard considering there are 9.6 million to date, and follow the compass on your screen to get to the area of the Munzee. When you are in the virtual bubble of where the hiding spot could be, you begin searching for the physical QR code. Hunters receive points for finding each Munzee, which are used to advance in levels. There are many different types of Munzees, each with their own point value. Greenie, the most common type of Munzee, earns you about 20 points. But a diamond Munzee, a rare find, earns about 60 points if you capture them. Adam said, “I think Munzee has changed these tough times of the coronavirus because it gives us something to do during the times where we can’t interact with our friends due to social distancing. I think getting outside and doing activities like Munzee is beneficial during the pandemic because it takes you outside and gives you something to do. You never want to stay inside and sit around, so Munzee is a good way to get out and exercise.” To learn more about Munzee, visit Munzee.com.
Residents in River Hills recently held a food drive for Seeds of Hope.
River Hills Coodinates Food Collection To Benefit Seeds Of Hope Food Bank River Hills residents came together for those in need last month by collecting car loads of donations for a local food bank. “Seeds of Hope, Inc. is located right here in our own backyard and is primarily funded through the donations,” said Julie Rule, chair of the River Hills Social Team. “They provide food assistance for our community in need and offer meaningful community service hours for students. Seeds of Hope, Inc. has three main ways of distributing food: through a mobile pantry for local residents, through a once-a-week distribution open to all and through the backpack of food program coordinated with local schools. After the onset of COVID-19 school closings and the higher unemployment rates and social distancing guidelines, their demand has been greater than ever.” According to Rule, local realtor and River Hills resident Brenda Wade knew of the need to help stock Seeds of Hope’s food pantry and can be credited with this grassroots effort which all started with a Facebook post. “Almost immediately after Brenda posted the request, she had a key volunteer in Andrea Heeps, who agreed to help the cause,” said Rule.
Staff Report
Heeps and Wade kept residents abreast of the food drive plans via their Facebook posts, pictures and videos. They recruited volunteers to create signage, help set up boxes at each neighborhood sign, collect donations in the golf carts, sort and fill boxes with the donations, load the truck and make the deliveries. “We couldn’t have pulled this off without the help of our volunteers, Cameron Troyer, Thomas Heeps, John Heeps, Luke Patten and Madeline Felegy,” said Heeps. “They made it happen!” River Hills residents raided their own pantries and also made specific trips to Publix to be able to make donations. The donations ranged from single items to a car’s trunkload. “Kudos to all the residents who donated and helped bring this activity to life,” said Rule. “A simple Facebook post grew to what would end up filling three full-size pickup truck beds of donations. Thank you to everyone who helped.” River Hills is a deed-restricted, multi-village, controlled access community with 1,162 single-family homes and common lands surrounding a country club and golf course located at 4350 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico. To learn more, visit www.riverhills-hoa.com.
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Volume 24 | Issue 8
Page 11
BACK TO SCHOOL CRAFT: The Wind Blows Like The Spirit Of God
By Kelly Wise Valdes
August is normally the time we are preparing to head back to school with the kiddos! Although this school year may look and feel different, we can celebrate the spirit of learning and putting our trust in God. In the Bible, we learn in John 3:8, “The wind blows where it wishes and you hear the sound of it, but do not know where it comes from and where it is going; so is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” Even though we cannot see the wind, we can feel it and hear it. This is a lot like God. We can hear His voice through the stories we learn in the Bible and we can feel his peace, comfort and joy all around us. Sometimes, to see the wind, we can look at pinwheels spinning. That is evidence that the wind is blowing—similar to how God works in our lives. So even though this year may take some unex-
pected turns, ups and downs, we know God is still there, just like the wind. Now, let’s make a pinwheel! Time needed: 20 minutes Materials needed: • One square piece of white, heavy construction paper. • One pair of scissors. • One thumb tack. • One pencil (with an eraser).
• Crayons, markers or colored pencils and stickers for decorating the pinwheels. Procedure: • Fold the construction paper on the diagonal from corner to corner. Open the paper up and fold on the second diagonal across the other two corners. When the paper is opened flat, the folds make an ‘X’ across the square.
• Make one cut along each fold beginning at the corner and cutting toward the center. The cut should stop about halfway toward the center. The cut should not go all the way to the center of the square. • Decorate/color each section of the square on both sides of the construction paper. • Take every other corner, one at a time, and gently pull it up to the center of the square. • When all four corners meet at the center, take the thumb tack and push it through all four corners through the center of the square. • Push the thumb tack through the eraser of the pencil. • Blow on the pinwheel and watch it spin! For instructions online with illustrations, visit http://www.leslietryon. com/3dcolorcutout/makepinw/makepinwheel.html.
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Page 12
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Faith Community Nurses Join Forces With Local Hospitals To Create Mobile Medical Clinics For Migrant Workers By Libby Hopkins
Community Nursing manager. Faith Community Nursing is a recognized specialty by the American Nurses Association. Faith community nurses are pastoral, spiritually mature and licensed, registered nurses. Focusing on the intentional care of the spirit, the nurses blend the community members’ faith and definition of living well with the science of medicine to enhance quality of life. This opportunity is available to all faith communities and all licensed nurses, whether employed or retired. The clinics do not perform coronavirus testing but provide masks for clients and referrals to testing sites. The nurses suit up in personal protective equipment, register clients outdoors and perform as many services as possible outside to allow for social Far right: Dr. Sara Proctor (left) and faith comdistancing. munity nurses (right) Gloria Arroyo and Carmen La Esperanza Clinic sees clients on Flores-Zeigler serve clients at mobile clinics set up the Catholic Charities Mobile Medical by BayCare’s St. Joseph’s Hospitals. Clinic bus The recent panat Our demic has been Lady of very challenging Guadalupe for St. Joseph’s Catholic Hospitals FounMission, dation and the located South Florida Bapat 16650 tist Hospital faith US Hwy. community nurses 301 S. in working at the San Wimauma Jose Mission clinfor routine ic in Dover and La medical Esperanza Clinic in visits every Wimauma. Tu e s d ay For almost 20 and for diyears, St. Joseph’s abetic and Hospital has parthy p e r t e n nered with Catholic sive paCharities of the Ditients the ocese of St. Petersthird Thursburg to serve the day each needs of migrant month. farm workers. ToSan Jose gether, the clinics serve more than Mission, located at 3228 San Jose 2,000 clients each year, offering free Mission Dr. in Dover has routine clinics medical services to underserved indi- on Mondays and sees diabetics/hyperviduals residing in Hillsborough County tensive patients on the first Friday of who are not covered by another pro- each month. On clinic days, both clinics gram or insurance. register patients between 5 and 7 p.m. The faith community nurses began They begin seeing patients at 6 p.m. offering their services at mobile medi- and continue until all have been seen. cal clinics that were set up at San Jose For more information on these mobile Mission and La Esperanza Clinic. clinics, call 707-7376. “When the pandemic hit, the clinTo learn more about faith commuics continued to see clients, they have nity nurses, visit BayCare’s website at just had to move most of the services www.baycare.org/about-us/faith-comoutdoors,” said Linda Wilkerson, Faith munity-nursing.
August 2020
Brandon Author Spreads Mystery And Intrigue In Paradise Or What? By Jadon Khor
With families stuck area since July 1989 and at home and social dislove it here.” tancing, some are finding While writing Paradise themselves lost, away or What?, Ogden was from the magic of the sure and careful to inoutside world. Yet Branclude mentions of specifdon author William Ogic locations in the area, den offers an escape to a including several local world of enigma and adrestaurants and public venture with mystery nospaces, in order to truly vella Paradise Or What? immerse his readers in Paradise or What? the scene. Local commustands as the second innity members will cerstallment of the mystery tainly have a blast comnovella series Dangerous ing across their favorite Encounspots in ters, where After reading his father’s life story, William Ogden was inspired town while to write a biography on his father’s life and began writing and Tampa Bay curled up self-publishing Dangerous Encounters. backdrops and reada story of ing. technological dangers and In making his readers anlove; the sequel tackles the ticipated for the next installrise of drone technology and ment, Ogden said he expanded its potential dangers in modupon his writing to create a ern society. stronger and more mysterious The book is truly a story. “I just wanted them to page-turning, invigorating have a feeling of suspense.” read filled with romance and Because of this new direction, shock, one that takes the Ogden said, “the first [novelmind away from the current la] was more murder mystery, world and into one that fills and the second [novella] was the familiar with unknown. more of a who’s doing what.” Following his first novella, Heaven Through this change in writing style, he or What?, based on his former home said he hopes to keep his readers susin North Carolina, Ogden was inspired pended and engaged. to continue exploring his characters Though Ogden has just released his latthrough a second installment of the Dan- est story, expect more from the Dangergerous Encounters: Raymond Williams, ous Encounters series, as he said he plans Stella Artists and Chuck Miller. But Og- on writing the third installment, though den wanted to take his characters away right now he is working on his autobiogfrom North Carolina and down south to raphy in parallel to the novels. his current home: Tampa Bay. “I included Paradise or What? is currently released the Tampa Bay area in this book because on Amazon, where it can be found under my family and I have lived in the Tampa the books section of the store.
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Volume 24 | Issue 8
BAPTIST Bay Life Church 1017 Kingsway Ave., Brandon (813) 661-3696 Bell Shoals Baptist - Brandon 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 Congregación Hispana 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 ext. 242 Bell Shoals Baptist - Apollo Beach 408 Apollo Beach Blvd., Apollo Beach (813) 641-2222 Bell Shoals Baptist - Palm River 5415 Palm River Rd.,Tampa (813) 621-2058 Bell Shoals Baptist - Riverview 9990 South Hwy 301, Suite 10024, Riverview (813) 689-4229 First Baptist Church of Brandon 216 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon (813) 689-1204 First Baptist Church of Bloomingdale 3303 Bloomingdale Ave.,Valrico (813) 689-3847 First Baptist Church of Gibsonton 9912 Indiana St., Gibsonton (813) 677-1301 First Baptist Church of Ruskin 820 College Ave. W., Ruskin (813) 645-6439 FishHawk Fellowship 15326 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia, (813) 655-7431 Grace Baptist Church 2909 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-7190 Journey Church 415 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon (813) 699-8262 Shiloh Baptist Church 1104 Cason St., Plant City (813) 752-8345 CATHOLIC Nativity Catholic Church 705 E Brandon Blvd., Brandon (813) 681-4608 St. Anne Catholic Church 106 11th Ave. NE, Ruskin (813) 645-1714
St. Matthews Anglican Church 10701 Bloomingdale Avenue, Riverview 813-663-0334 St. Stephen Catholic Church 10118 Saint Stephen Circle, Riverview (813) 689-4900 CHURCH OF GOD Boyette Springs Church of God 12114 Boyette Rd., Riverview (813) 671-0086 Plant City Church of God 2103 Mud Lake Rd., Plant City (813) 752-4591 EPISCOPAL Holy Innocents' Episcopal Church 604 N. Valrico Rd., Valrico (813) 689-3130 LUTHERAN Immanuel Lutheran Church 2913 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-1787 Living Savior Lutheran Church 2650 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico (813) 681-2375 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Seffner 1310 South Kingsway Rd., Seffner (813) 689-3513 Grace Community United Methodist Church 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Lithia (813) 661-8858 • info@mygraceumc.com New Hope United Methodist Church 120 N. Knights Ave., Brandon (813) 689-4161 Riverview First United Methodist Church 8002 US Hwy 301., Riverview www.riverviewflumc.org Ruskin United Methodist Church 105 4th Ave. NW, Ruskin (813) 645-1241 South Shore United Methodist Church 11525 Big Bend Rd., Riverview (813) 649-9462 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Calvary Chapel Brandon 1331 Kingsway Rd., Brandon (813) 681-5318 Centerpoint Church 1801 S. Miller Rd., Valrico (813) 689-1906
Page 13
Grace Community Church 1425 N Valrico Rd., Valrico (813) 689-9781 Harvest Bible Chapel Bloomingdale High School 813-699-0517 Love First Christian Center 12847 Balm Riverview Rd., Riverview 813-671-2009 River of Life Christian Center 6605 Krycul Ave, Riverview 813-677-4453 New Life Christian Church 401 S. Saint Cloud Ave, Valrico 813-548-2733 South Bay Church 13498 US 301 S., Riverview 813-677-0721 The Chapel at FishHawk 6026 Churchside Dr., Lithia 813-661-7105 The Crossing Church - Main Campus 10130 Tuscany Ridge Dr., Tampa, (813) 626-0783 The Crossing Church - SouthShore 2409 East College Ave., Ruskin (813) 626-0580 The Palms Church 207 New Hope Rd., Brandon (813) 841-9598 True Sanctuary 6528 US Hwy 301 S., Suite 114, Riverview (813) 319-5862 PENTECOSTAL Destiny Church 2322 11th Ave. SE, Ruskin (813) 645-3337 HighPoint Church of Brandon 2207 Lithia-Pinecrest Rd., Valrico/Brandon (813) 685-4827 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Brandon -PCUSA 121 Carver Ave., Brandon (813) 689-4597 Redeemer Church-PCA 12404 Boyette Rd., Riverview (813) 741-1776 Westminster Presbyterian Church PCA 402 E. Lumsden Rd., Brandon (813) 689-6541
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Page 14
August 2020
Fossil Valley Girl Scouts Hike 34.2 Miles Of The Appalachian Trail
Staff Report
over giant rocks, all while carrying a backpack weighing close to 40 pounds. Even though there were some difficult uphill spots, Brynlee Rhodes, a seventh grader at Burns Middle School, felt the last two miles of the trek were the hardest. “It was all downhill stepping over rocks, but those two miles felt the longest,” she said. “We thought we were never going to get there!” Girls Scouts from two local troops recently Rhodes, Troop 3541’s co-leader, hiked the first 34.2 mile section of the Appalastated there was quite the sense of chian Trail in the mountains of Georgia. accomplishment among the entire group as they saw the sign for Neels Three Cadette Girl Scouts from Gap, where they finished their hike. Troops 3541 and 1151 in the Fossil Valley “We were so excited to reach our Service unit recently spent their spring goal,” she said. break hiking the first 34.2 mile section The Cadette Girl Scouts earned their of the Appalachian Trail in the mounPrimitive Camping badge, Night Owl tains of Georgia, earning four important badge, Trailblazing badge and Outdoor badges and the experience of a lifetime. Leadership Journey badge. They also “We have been practice hiking in our took notes on the amount of time they neighborhood, at local state parks, in hiked each day, how far they went, inparking garages downtown and at the teresting stopping points along the way, high school track and bleachers,” said water locations, elevation changes and Macey Clay, a seventh grade student at gear suggestions, which they will comRandall Middle School. “We were ready piling into a handbook for future troops. and wanted to accomplish our goal that “These girls truly are trailblazers, as a we had planned so long for.” hike of this magnitude is a first from the The three girls hiked with two of their scouts in our area,” said Nicki Clay, troop troop leaders, Nicki Clay and Jenny leader. Rhodes, and three parents. Their advenMaya Tedford, a Randall eighth grade ture began at the southern terminus of student, agreed. “The trail showed me I the Appalachian Trail located at Springam stronger than I thought and I can er Mountain. There, they were dropped accomplish something in harsh condioff for their four-night, five-day journey, tions that a lot of people don’t think they which involved hiking anywhere from can do.” The Girl Scouts hope their expefive to nine and a half miles a day over rience will encourage others to follow in mountains, across streams, and on and their footsteps.
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You probably have many financial goals: a comfortable retirement, long vacations, college for your children, and so on. But to achieve these goals, you may have to follow different investment strategies.
And keep in mind that your strategy for achieving one goal may affect your ability to work toward another, so you might need to prioritize these goals and make some trade-offs in your investment moves. It’s possible that you may need to invest less toward one goal so you can put away more toward another.
First of all, you’ll need to identify each goal and ask yourself some questions: How much time will you Working toward multiple have to achieve this obJOANNA jective? How much return SPRINGSTEAD goals can be challenging, so you may want to get will you need? How much Financial Advisor some professional help, risk are you willing to which, along with patience and eftake? fort, can help you make progress You’ll also need to choose invest- toward your financial goals. ments designed to help you reach Now booking appointments each goal. And these investments should work together. Monitor their via the phone/web conference. progress over time and make adCall today to schedule an justments as needed. introductory meeting.
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Page 15
August 2020
FAITH & FOOTPRINTS
Basilica Of Notre-Dame-du-Cap By Kelly Wise Valdes
The Basilica of Notre-Dame-du-Cap, located halfway between Montreal and Quebec City, is one of Canada’s national shrines and is one of the most visited historic icons in the region. Also known as Our Lady of the Cape Shrine, it is Canada’s National Shrine to the Blessed Mother. The original small wooden structure was built in 1694. A second parish church was built in 1747 to replace the first church, and this building still stands and is considered the oldest church in Canada in which Mass is celebrated daily. By 1867, more and more parishioners started coming to church; eventually, the church was too small, and a larger church was required. The stones and building material were purchased and were to be brought over in the winter across the frozen Saint Lawrence River. However, 1879 happened to have one of those rare mild winters where the river did not freeze over. Parishioners prayed the Rosary, asking for the Blessed Mother‘s intercession for solid ice to form on the river. A promise to the Blessed Mother was made by the priest that he would dedicate the smaller church to her instead of demolishing it if the building material could be obtained before springtime. Miraculously, in the middle of March, thin pieces of ice floated down the river from Lake St-Pierre, 20 miles. The workers, priest and parishioners worked perilously on these thin pieces of ice. They thickened the ice by pouring water and using the heavy snowfall to build a narrow mile-and-a-half-long ice path. This ice bridge became known as the Rosary Bridge. During this time, the Saint Lawrence River remained wide open on both sides of this ice path. With these stones, the third church
was built in 1880. On June 22, 1888, the dedication of the small fieldstone church to Our Lady, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, took place. A statue that had been donated by a parishioner in 1854 was ceremoniously placed on the main altar. That evening, a handicapped parishioner came to pray and asked for the assistance of two of the priests to help him into the church. As the three men were praying, suddenly both priests looked up at the Blessed Mother to see that the statue’s eyes had opened and that her face turned into a living person’s face. This miracle lasted for almost 10 minutes. Both priests were astonished and never stopped talking about this wonderful event of the Blessed Mother. With more parishioners, the construction of the new basilica began in 1955 and it was inaugurated in 1964. This large building seats 1,660 and its dome rises up to 125 feet. The Basilica of Notre-Dame-du-Cap is adorned with remarkable stained-glass windows and the organ is one of the largest in Canada with 5,425 pipes. It is estimated that as many as 400,000 visit the church annually. For more information, visit www.sanctuaire-ndc.ca.
Live Like You Mean It ...
Don’t Wait Around; Up Your Spiritual Game Now! Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another. – Hebrews 10:23-25 Today, I want to highlight my biggest concern when it comes to COVID-19. I am worried that some of us will lose each other. Let me be clear, I respect and absolutely follow the guidelines set out by local authorities. Because rebuilding the
economy, getting kids back in school and coming together again as the church—all this is compromised, not facilitated, when impatience leads to recklessness. At the same time, I know people are drifting apart. Our church is doing amazingly work to keep in touch and keep momentum going—yet it is not enough. The burden is on people to stay engaged, but some are simply not there, not yet at the point in their journey where they can grow without the community literally surrounding them. My heart aches for them.
Then there are our grandchildren. We haven’t seen them in person since they moved to Miami in February! Our other grandchild is in Germany. Plus, I miss my church family so much that it hurts. My heart aches because of all this too. My point is this: rather than complain about the restrictions, and rather than waiting around for “things to return to normal,” make the decision to up your game when it comes to connecting in the ways that are both possible and now. Show up for worship online. Join a Zoom Bible class. Listen to all your church’s vid-
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Page 16
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
August 2020
HOT OFF THE CHRISTIAN NEWS WIRE
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Manatee County-Based Compa- homes. When you buy from Spread The ny Fights Cancer And COVID-19 Love, you support the outreach efforts With Artistry And Love Spread The Love is an art therapy ministry that was created to share faith-building messages through wearable art and home decor products. This program offers cancer patients an opportunity to develope entrepreneurial opportunities through the creation of inspirational products. Participants can create their own artistic designs which can then be converted to marketable items. Patients who are undergoing chemotherapy, and those who’ve recently finished their treatment, have extremely weakened immune systems. It makes it very dangerous for them to seek employment outside of their
in many ways: you share a message of hope and encouragement and you support the artists who are fighting their cancer battles. For inspirational face masks, T-shirts and home decor products, visit www. S p re a d Th e Love S to re . com.
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GO 2020 Reaches 277 Million People With The Gospel In The Midst Of The Pandemic Global Outreach Day’s GO 2020 mobilized over 57 million Christians worldwide to reach 277 million with
the Gospel. Despite social distancing due to COVID-19, Christians shared the Gospel digitally, by phone, text and
through food and mask distributions, with Bibles and tracts, as well as personal evangelism. “We were surprised by the effectiveness of reaching out digitally and by phone,” said Werner Nachtigal, founder and president of Global Outreach Day. “GO 2020 was uniquely placed in the crisis. We could share the Gospel of hope with a multitude.” GO 2020 is continuing its outreach with 90 Days of Hope until the end of August. During 90 Days of Hope, churches and ministries will have an outreach on the last Saturday of each month. On Saturday, August 29, there will be a Global Day of Hope with joint evangelistic outreaches and evangelistic activities taking place around the world. For more information, visit Go2020.world.
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Volume 24 | Issue 8
Page 17
Seville 299 CLEANERS
Many birds of prey call Florida home, including the five species of owls that live here year-round. Those species include the barn owl, great horned owl, eastern screech owl, burrowing and barred owl. The barred owl may be one of the most widespread and common owls to observe in our area. With their round head and stocky build, these large birds lack ear tufts and have vertical brown bar markings on their white, feather-covered chest. Nocturnal by nature, these quiet and stealthy hunters are most active at dusk but can be seen and heard in daylight hours too. Their hoot is a low, rich baritone of eight to nine notes that sounds like a hoot, caw and cackle. They can often be heard in pairs communicating back and forth as they are very territorial creatures.
The barred owl’s diet consists mostly of small animals like rodents, squirrels and lizards. They have been known to prey on aquatic critters such as crayfish, frogs and fish as well. Barred owls roost in trees and nest in cavities within those trees. They prefer habitats near water and are commonly found in areas with lakes, ponds and swamps nearby. Barred owls often live an average of 10 years in the wild and have survived for over 20 years in captivity. They mate for life and can utilize the same nest year after year to hatch their eggs and rear their young for up to 4 months. Barred owls, like all birds of prey, are crucial components of a healthy food web and ecosystem. Not only do they keep many rodent, insect and reptile populations in balance by being a natural source of pest control, but they also do not have many predators, giving them a top position in the food web. These beautiful birds do, however, face many challenges that stem from human development sprawl. One threat to their survival is the overuse of rodenticides. With rodents being a main food source, owls often fall victim to secondary rodenticide poisoning from eating the poisoned prey. This sad and painful death to many raptors like owls can be avoided by eliminating the use of bait boxes and rat poisons all together. If you have a rodent problem, try instead to find and eliminate the source or utilize a non-toxic and humane alternative that is safe for all animals and can possibly save an owl’s life.
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Page 18
August 2020
The Fruit Of The Holy Spirit What Is Kindness? By Kelly Wise Valdes
Museum Program Grants Access To By Kathy Collins
Galatians 5:22-23 tells us, “The Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility and self-control.” You may have heard about the fruit of the Spirit and wondered what it is and how it relates to our Christian faith. In this series, each fruit will be explored and related to our everyday lives. Just like physical fruit need time to grow, the fruit of the Spirit will not ripen in our lives overnight. As we mature in our faith, all the characteristics of our spiritual fruit will grow as well. The fifth fruit of the Spirit is kindness. True kindness is taught to us in Ephesians 4:31-32, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each another, just as in Christ God forgave you.” So, just how important is kindness? In a study of 37 cultures around the world, 16,000 subjects were asked about their most desired traits in a mate. For both sexes, the first choice was kindness. Acclaimed psychologists John and Julie Gottman gathered data on successful marriages for decades and found that
kindness was essential to a lasting union. But, what is kindness? It begins with caring, being tenderhearted and compassionate. The Greek word for ‘kind’ is chrestos—meaning ‘useful.’ This means that kindness involves action. Truly kind people will actively look for opportunities to show kindness. Whether it’s paying for someone’s coffee at the drivethrough behind them or writing a note of encouragement to a friend, kindness requires action. Of course, action can also include words—words of encouragement, comfort, courtesy and compliments can be heartwarming acts of kindness. Jesus Christ practiced kindness that was considered radical for that time and culture. His kindness often extended to the people that were not treated well, including the sick, poor and social outcasts. He healed them, prayed with them and fed them. Just like Jesus, we should practice kindness, even something as small as a smile at a passing stranger. We should continue to ripen our fruit of kindness in the footsteps of Jesus, who personified the greatest example of kindness.
Museums For All is a national, branded access program that encourages individuals of all backgrounds to visit museums regularly and build lifelong museum habits. It is open to participation by any type of museum, including art, history, natural history/anthropology, general museums, children’s museums, science centers, planetariums, nature centers, historic houses, sites, zoos, aquariums, botanical gardens and arboretums. The program allows individuals and families who receive SNAP benefits (food stamps) free or reduced general admission to many museums simply by showing their active EBT card at the admissions desk. Cost of admission should never be a barrier to someone visiting a museum. In the state of Florida, there are 22 participating venues. Within the Tampa Bay area, there are several, including the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) in Tampa, the Tampa Bay History Center in Tampa, the Tampa Museum of Art next to Curtis Hixon Park in downtown Tampa, the Explorations V Children’s Museum in Lakeland, the Great Explorations Children’s Museum in St. Petersburg, the Morean Art Center in St. Petersburg and
the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota. The program offers museums a way to broaden their visitor base and it allows underserved communities a way to visit museums, where the visitors can be inspired and have their creativity ignited. The program is an initiative of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. It is administered by the Association of Children’s Museums. Since its launch in 2014, Museums for All has served more than 2.5 million visitors nationwide. There is no limit to the number of times an individual or a family can visit the museum. They can get admission for 43 or less for up to four people per one EBT card. At the Tampa Museum of Art, for instance, families receive free admission thanks to funding from PNC Bank. A representative from the Tampa Museum of Art said, “We are so proud to offer this national program to the Tampa Bay community during this critical time.” For more information on the Museums For All program and to find out about participating museums, please visit www.museums4all.org.
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Volume 24 | Issue 8
Page 19
Local Options Help Kids Get Crafty:
Summer Art Opportunities For Kids private
birthday
parties where the
The business is also offering multiple
the project for the
varieties of workshops for kids, includ-
group to do and
ing a ‘Unicorn Plaque/Bubble Painting
each of them gets
Technique Workshop’ and a ‘Be Gnarly
to personalize the
(Gnarwhal) Canvas Workshop’.
their own. Another
option
shop’ and a ‘Christmas in July’-inspired
for crafty fun, Art
week with fun Christmas-themed arts
Monkey, is located
and crafts for kids.
in Lithia in the Park
During these uncertain times, it’s
Square Town Cen-
great to see businesses reopening and
ter and has many
helping kids find their imagination and
events
creativity this summer. All information
happening the
month of July.
weekly from June to early August, and
opportunities to get creative and have
kids participate in a different project
some fun this summer. AR Workshop
each day and are able to personalize
and Art Monkey, two local art studios
the projects they make.
in the area, are offering everything from summer camps to candle making
“It’s a really fun time for all the kids,” stated the owner, Stephanie Paxton.
to get kids creative on their break from
The business also offers
regarding Art Monkey can be found at www.artandicecream.com and it can
Each Friday, the
fering kids and their families several
For teens and tweens, the company is offering a ‘Happy Camper Plate Work-
throughout
ilies. Its summer camps currently run
cluded.
birthday kid picks
project to make it
Multiple locations in the area are of-
By Faith Miller
each with their own special treat in-
be contacted at 315-9803.
business will host
All information regarding AR Work-
‘Story Art’ where
shop can be found at www.arwork-
children are read a
shop.com/brandon. Its summer camps
book and do a project based off that
can be found under the calendar and it
book. Once the children finish their art-
can be contacted about birthday par-
work they receive a kiddie cup of ice
ties and events at 775-7109.
cream. Art Monkey has begun offering candle making and is offering workshops for different age groups,
school. AR
Work-
shop is located in Brandon and
is
rently ing
curoffer-
multiple
activities and events
for
kids and fam-
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Page 20
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
August 2020