Vol. 25| Iss. 7| July 2021
CHRISTIAN BUSINESS CONNECTIONS CELEBRATES SHINING LIGHT TEACHER AWARD 17
By Kelly Wise Valdes
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Columns: Grace Notes: Hooked On Books: Faith & Footprints: News From The Wire:
04 07 17 20
Christian Business ConAward winner was Kathy nections (CBC), a faithMetz, kindergarten teachbased business networking er at Foundation Christian group located in Brandon, Academy. Metz, a mothcelebrated the 2021 Shiner of two daughters, has ing Light Teacher Award taught kindergarten at presentation last month. Foundation Christian AcadThe Shining Light Teacher emy since 2010. She is a Award spotlights the exhighly requested teacher traordinary educators that because of her reputation serve students in Christian as a Christian and an exschools in the area. cellent reading coach. Metz The premise for the award partners with parents to is founded on Titus 2:7-8: help students grow aca“In everything set them an demically, emotionally and example by doing what is spiritually. She has taught good. In your teaching show while battling cancer and integrity, seriousness and also while caring for her ill soundness of speech that parents and father-in-law, cannot be condemned, so Christian Business Connections recently celebrated this year’s Shining Light and she continued to teach that those who oppose you while dealing with the Teacher Award presentation. The finalists were Terri Fellers and Kimberly Oates (finalists/Bell Shoals Baptist Academy/top), Kathy Metz (winner/ may be ashamed because loss of those parents, losFoundation Christian Academy/middle), Julie Pollock (finalist/St. Stephens they have nothing bad to ing her home to a fire and Catholic School/lower left) and Kathleen Greenberg (finalist/Nativity Cathosay about us.” caring for a husband with lic School/lower right). “CBC began this award major health issues. She’s lives. All winners were visited indiin 2017 but was unable to a team player and a child provide a winner last year due to vidually for the award presentations. advocate. Metz is one of the many “There is no cost for schools to par- deserving teachers showing up with COVID,” said Ryan Hughes, founding member of CBC. “We were happy to ticipate and all awards are donated a happy heart for her students each by local businesses,” said Hughes. and every day. bring the award back this year.” The Shining Light Teacher Award “Principals from interested schools If you are a business or individual process begins with peer nominations can reach out to me for more details that is willing to donate or become within the participating Christian for next year.” involved with this outstanding proThe 2021 finalists were Terri Fellers gram or want more information on schools. The school administration forwards the nominees to interview and Kimberly Oates from Bell Shoals the CBC’s Shining Light Teacher with a board of CBC members who Baptist Academy, Julie Pollock from Award and how your school can parselect the winners based on certain St. Stephen Catholic School and ticipate, email shininglight@chriscriteria, including Christian leader- Kathleen Greenberg from Nativity tianbusinessconnections.com or visit ship, commitment to educational ex- Catholic School. www.christianbusinessconnections. This year’s Shining Light Teacher com. cellence and their impact in students’
CHILDREN & ADULTS CAN ‘ACHIEVE’ LITERACY AND EDUCATIONAL GOALS
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Many children as well as adults struggle with educational goals and may be looking for outside alternatives and assistance. Achieve Plant City is a nonprofit organization established by a middle school dropout who changed her own life through education and is paying it forward to help others achieve their educational goals. The organization has been providing services in Eastern Hillsborough County since 2011 under the support of the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy. “Achieve Plant City was established to help others achieve their dreams through education,” said Founder and Executive Director Angelica Ibarra. “I personally saw the transformation in my life and the lives of my children once I started gaining knowledge and after I realized the importance of literacy and education.” The organization’s philosophy is that through education and support, all individuals can reach their potential. One of the most important programs offered is Adult Literacy, which includes English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes,
that strengthen the family unit. Parents and children work together on literacy activities and parents are taught strategies for supporting literacy that they can reinforce at home. Before COVID-19, Achieve Plant City was serving up to 100 individuals each year. “The families who attend our program enroll because they want better lives,” said Ibarra. “They want to be able to communicate with others and they want to be involved with their children’s education. They Achieve Plant City is a nonprofit organization that helps are hardworking individuals who are seekchildren and families achieve their educational goals ing to better themselves through literacy through literacy programs. and who need the extra Adult Basic Education (ABE) classsupport to reach their es, General Education Development goals.” (GED) classes and basic computer Achieve Plant City is in skills instruction. Achieve Plant City also offers child need of volunteers for the after-school program and literacy programs, which include early the adult literacy program, and it also always welchildhood education for children ages comes donations that can help with school supplies 18 months to 5 years old and reading and tutoring costs. It is located at 202 W. Reynolds and homework assistance for children in kindergar- St. in Plant City. For more information about donaten through fifth grade. This also includes parenting tions, volunteering or becoming part of this important education with workshops that focus on supporting program, visit www.achieveplantcity.org or call 752parents in their role as their child’s teacher and topics 4010.
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July 2021
Volume 25 | Issue 07
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
ONLINE RAFFLES CREATE SUCCESSFUL FUNDRAISERS FOR CHARITIES
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SOMEBODY CARES TAMPA BAY HOSTS 11TH ANNUAL GALA & AUCTION
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Staff Report
Chance2Win is an our unique way of looking online raffle website at it, but we created the service based out of system.” Southern HillsborTo date, Chance2Win ough County that has has raised over a quarassisted nearly 1,000 ter of a million dollars nonprofit organizaand has helped nonproftions and charities its raffle off everything with raffle fundraisfrom unique custom cars ing services. Chanceto cash. Charities such 2Win makes internet as Habitat to Humanity, charity raffles easy United Way, Rotary Interwith a streamlined national, US Army Rangsetup and full reporters Association, churching. es of all types, schools, “We began animal shelters, food building charity Heather Hammons, fundraising coach with banks, nonprofit hospiChance2Win, along with her husband, fundraising raffle tals, scholarship funds Bryan, work with nonprofit agencies to software for charand homeless shelters help raise much-needed money for charities ity websites about have all benefited from through an online raffle system. a dozen years ago,” Chance2Win. said Heather Ham“Recently, we helped mons, fundraising Camp Freedom, an organizacoach with Chancetion that helps veterans and 2Win. “That quickly caused other web de- first responders and their families, raise velopers to contact us to see if they could over $300,000 when they raffled off a cusget the modules to add to sites they were tom ’69 Nova build by Danny and the crew building. So, for the last 10 years, we have at Count’s Kustoms,” said Hammons. “The been making raffle software that powers most interesting one was when we got a the majority of the charity fundraising raf- call from a pretty major celebrity asking for fles worldwide.” assistance with helping raise money for a Over the years, the web development charity that supports kids who lost a parexpertise of what is now its sister com- ent in the military. It’s rare to have the acpany, The Web Ninja, earned a reputation tual celebrity call. That fundraiser was very of being able to solve website issues that successful, and we have since helped six others could not. Many years ago, a large other charities they are associated with.” charity was struggling with how to issue “Our average charity sees about 160 perraffle ticket numbers when people bought cent of the contributions over a traditional tickets. in-person charity raffle,” said Hammons. “It “Several web developers tried and gave is really exciting to watch charities improve up,” said Hammons. “With this opportunity, their fundraising year after year using softit made sense what to do and how to do it. ware that we created.” Maybe it was all the years of helping charFor more information, visit www.chanceities with raffles in person, maybe it was 2win.org or call 699-9325.
communities.” One of the other main ways the group helps the community is through its CareFest outreach events. Although CareFest takes place throughout the year, CareFest Day, a work day in which thousands of volunteers in different locations throughout the area come together to make an impact by taking on projects to meet the needs of the community, will take place on Saturday, September 25. Volunteers work with civic authorities to find those in need and the elderly and disabled who are in violation of city code but need their homes repaired. Typically,
Lt. Col. Allen West is the speaker at the 11th annual Somebody Cares Tampa Bay gala and auction in September. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available for the event now.
Somebody Cares Tampa Bay is inviting you to a night of fun and inspiration for a good cause. The group, an 501(c)(3) nonprofit outreach of compassion by the Church in Tampa Bay, is hosting its 11th annual gala and auction on Saturday, September 4, with ticket and sponsorship opportunities now available. According to the co-founder of Somebody Cares Tampa Bay, Kathy Bernard, the gala and auction will support the group’s ongoing work in the community. The main speaker at the event, which is themed ‘Armour Up!,’ is Lt. Col. Allen West. “Lt. Col. West has not only been a leader in our military, but he is also a leader on the conservative front. He was former congressional representative of Florida and presently chairman of the Republican Party of Texas,” said Bernard. “He will be sharing how we as believers can armor up in our faith to make a difference in our
the group serves 200 homes with over 3,000 volunteers, bringing in over 1 million goods and services to Tampa Bay. CareFest has been taking place in the community for more than 20 years. The gala and auction will be held at the Doubletree by Hilton at 4500 W. Cypress St. in Tampa at 6 p.m. Visit www.sctb.org for more information about Somebody Cares Tampa Bay. For sponsorship and table host information or to register, visit www.sctb.org/events/11th-annual-gala.
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Grace Notes Squashed By Debora Coty
Riding my bike in the country one sunny afternoon, I came upon a colorful little snake coiled in a patch of sunshine in the road. Of course I had to stop. Now, I was raised near a swamp; never held much fear of snakes and have, in fact, been known to tuck one away in a pocket or two. But this little guy wasn’t a pocket dweller. He was a poisonous coral. They don’t strike like rattlers and aren’t really aggressive. Coral snakes only bite in self-defense, and then they have to sorta chew on you to do any damage. From a safe distance, I admired the crystalline pattern of the vivid red, black and yellow stripes, a masterpiece of design. I have no idea why the Master Creator felt we needed poisonous snakes (or mosquitoes or head lice!) but He did, and this one was a beauty. A dented silver pickup approached, driven by a young dude in a backwards baseball cap. He slowed down to see what was so interesting to the gal on the bike and then swerved way over to intentionally run over the little snake with his oversized tires, squashing reptile innards everywhere. I was incensed.
That snake wasn’t bothering anyone, just enjoying sunbathing on a warm road. My eyes welled up at the unjustness of despising this magnificent creation whose only offense was being what God made him. I suddenly felt the sting of prejudice. The unfairness. The disrespect of judging something—or someone—simply by appearance. Or species. Or ancestry. Or paradigm. Many of the citizens of our nation are experiencing the sting of prejudice right now in regard to political passions. Our division is blatant, our intolerance rabid. We’re quick to judge someone as a ‘jerk,’ ‘ignorant’ or ‘one of those’ if their perspective differs from ours. But as my granny used to say when I bad-mouthed others, “Who made you judge?” Answer: no one. The one and only Judge is still on His throne. And thankfully, He chooses to love us snakes, not run over us. Even when we’re poisonous. “Do not judge, or you too will be judged,” (Matthew 7:1, NIV). Prayer: God Who Knows each of our hearts, I leave the judging to You. I refuse to squash anyone.
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. Residential • Commercial Exterior Repaint Specialists License #L20000250797
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BIKES FOR CHRIST IS SEARCHING FOR DONATED STORAGE SPACE IN VALRICO By Makenzie Atkins
Do you ple were in want to help desperate those in need need of in our commusome kind nity but canof transnot find time? portation. If you have an With biindoor area cycling that you are already not using, dobeing a nate it to an passion of organization his, seeing that provides all the peotransporta ple in our tion to those community in need, as that needthe Bikes For Bikes For Christ partnered with the Children’s Board of Hillsbored help ough County to donate bikes to a mother and her sons. Christ organisparked his zation is curcreation of rently looking for a Bikes For Christ in storage location to 2016. store bikes, parts The organization and tools in the Valhas grown trerico area. mendously in the Bikes For Christ, past few years and an organization that now collects doworks to donate nations from and bikes to people in provides transporneed, is looking for tation for people someone to donate in Hillsborough, an indoor space of Pinellas, Polk and about 800 square Pasco Counties. feet to be used as Bikes For Christ storage. The orgaworks to collect nization has many bicycles, parts, things, ranging from fully built bikes to tools and frames in order to donate tools, that need a place to be stored un- them to other organizations in the area til they are ready to be donated. Even that work to get the bikes out to those though it is looking for short-term stor- in need. age right now, it may need storage in the Right now, Bikes For Christ is primarfuture if the location works for Bikes ily in need of men’s bicycles, but it will For Christ and the donor. Donating this always take any donations. space would be tax-deductible. “If an organization feels like a bicycle Pat Simmons, creator of Bikes For could be life-changing for an individual, Christ, described a perfect storage space they then reach out to us to get bicycles as “indoors, with walls and a ceiling; we for people in need,” said Simmons. don’t need AC, we just need a secure Bikes For Christ is excited to find a space.” storage area that fits its needs so that Looking for a way to combine his love it can continue to spread the love of God of God and the want to change people’s through helping those in need find translives in a positive way, Simmons began portation. volunteering to feed the homeless. Not For more information, contact Simlong after he started volunteering, Sim- mons at 533-9177, admin@Bikes4Christ. mons realized that many of these peo- com or visit www.bikes4chrsit.com.
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Volume 25 | Issue 07
TO CONTINUE GROWTH, BSAC CHANGES NAME TO HIGH 5, INC.
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ASSOCIATED WITH OSPREY OBSERVER
By Michelle Caceres
7 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico, FL 33592 • (office) 657-2418 • (fax) 657-4469 On June 4, after 58 years in the community, BSAC’s name changed to High 5, Inc.
Since 1963, Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) has been impacting lives through its superior educational and athletic programming that enhances physical, mental and spiritual well-being. The center’s name has changed to High 5, Inc. “The change reflects where our organization is now and where it’s going in the future,” said CEO Chuck Burgess. ‘High 5’ references its five pillars of impact: aquatics and youth drowning prevention, after-school education, special needs education, sports and recreation as well as its community initiative. The organization will continue to provide a wide variety of programming options, including swimming, diving and tennis lessons; after-school programs; special needs education; and team and individual sports. Its facility features include an Olympic-sized pool; 1-meter and 3-meter diving boards; a 10lane, 25-yard lap pool; 10 tennis courts; an indoor gym; sports fields; and an onsite cafe. Camp High 5, its summer camp program, began on June 1 and offers weeklong day camps for children in grades K-6. “We are so much more than sports and aquatics now, and, while our main campus is in Brandon, our programs and reach are well beyond home base,” Burgess said.
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“With partnerships with organizations like Livingstone Academy and Livy O’s, we’re impacting even more families throughout Hillsborough County.” Members of the community turned out in force for the grand opening celebration on June 4. With a ribbon-cutting, guest speakers and campus tours of the facility and surrounding 12.5-acre campus, the first official day of business as High 5, Inc. was a success. “The name change is just the beginning of what’s in store for our community, with new programs slated for 2022 and beyond as well as facility upgrades, new corporate partnerships and a laser focus on our five pillars,” he said. High 5, Inc. is located at 405 Beverly Dr. in Brandon. Its hours of operation are Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. For more about High 5, Inc., visit www. high5inc.org or call 689-0908.
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July 2021
EAGLE SCOUT IMPLEMENTS SUSTAIN- TAMPA BAY SPEECH, LANGUAGE & READING CLINIC MOVES TO A NEW LOCATION By Libby Hopkins ABLE PROJECT AT GRACE CHURCH By Anika Shah
during long periods without rain. Serrano explained how he would like his project to impact the community: “I would like Zeke Serrano and his troop in front of the completed beds and irrigation system. more people to For his Eagle Scout project, Ezequiel show up to the ‘Zeke’ Serrano built garden beds and an weekly community dinners, … I think it’s irrigation system at the Grace Commu- a great thing. … before COVID, we were nity United Methodist Church on Lithia actually able to sit down and talk to Pinecrest Rd. people, … they would share about their It all started when Serrano, who has lives and what was going on, … we were been in the Scout program since first able to be a friend for them.” Serrano grade, noticed that the church’s volun- hopes that the dinners can become bigteer-based garden was becoming di- ger and attract a more diverse set of lapidated and unkempt as less people people. physically attended the church over Serrano’s advice for other Boy Scouts the COVID-19 pandemic. The garden looking to become Eagle Scouts is to was not only a place to flex one’s green “stick with it, because the hard work thumb, but also a place that contribut- will pay off,” and also to “look to go ed vegetables to the weekly community above and beyond to serve your comdinners for people in need from 5-6 p.m. munity, … be consistent in one organizaHaving volunteered at the church for tion … and form relationships with those some time and wanting to be a part of people, … they may be able to talk about the garden’s rehabilitation effort, Serra- what they do and help you get into no talked to his youth pastor and troop some new things.” In addition to help of leader to make it happen. his troop (#665), some of Serrano’s bigSerrano and his troop did most of gest mentors on this project have been the construction work in one day. They his youth pastor, Greg Rusch, and troop used metal to build the raised beds and leader, Tom Bristow. a trench digger to construct a PVC pipe For more information on how to get system that connects the beds to the involved in volunteering or to attend the church’s well water. The raised beds will community dinners, Grace Community make it easier to weed and take care of United Methodist Church is located on the plants and the irrigation system will 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia and ensure that they are receiving water can be found at mygraceumc.com.
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Tampa Bay with our Speech, Lanfamilies guage & Readsince we ing Clinic has are working been providso closely ing speech, with them,” language and Kogut said. reading evalua“It has altions and therways been apy services my pasto infants, todsion to be a dlers, schoolspeech-lanage kids and guage paadults in Branthologist don and the and to help surrounding arkids with a eas since 2001, Tampa Bay Speech, Language & Reading Clinic has been pro- variety of in addition to viding speech, language and reading evaluations and therapy difficulties. physical thera- services to infants, toddlers, school-age kids and adults in Bran- Speech-landon and the surrounding areas since 2001. py, handwriting guage patherapy and other evaluations. thology not only encompassThe business recently moved es articulation and language to its new location at 16144 disorders, but also treats Churchview Dr., Ste. 109 locatchildren with autism, apraxia, ed downstairs in Park Square cleft palate, Down syndrome, in Lithia. Speech-Language Pavoice disorders, hearing imthologist and Director Julie L. pairments, fluency disorders, Kogut is the owner of Tampa reading disorders, dyslexia, Bay Speech, Language & Readagraphia and sensory feeding ing Clinic. She graduated with her mas- disorders.” The clinic also treats adults ter’s degree from the State University of who have suffered a head injury or stroke New York at Buffalo in 1994 and has been as well as voice fluency and accent reducpracticing speech-language pathology tion. since she graduated. “I opened the clinic in Moving to their office’s new location at September 2001,” Kogut said. “The clinic’s Park Square has enabled Kogut and her former name was All About Kids Pediatric staff to treat their clients in a great new Speech Services. The name was changed space. “We love being a part of the Lithia in 2008 to have it realized that we’re also community,” Kogut said. specialists in reading and treatment of To learn more about the services offered adults as well, hence the name Tampa Bay at Tampa Bay Speech, Language & ReadSpeech, Language & Reading Clinic.” ing Clinic or to schedule an appointment, Kogut and her staff have a family-based visit www.tampabayspeech.com, go to its approach which incorporates the family Facebook page @tampabayspeech or call into the therapy process and makes prog- 368-2485. Its office hours of operation are ress a lot faster. “We become very close Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
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Volume 25 | Issue 07
Page 7
Celebrating Our Independence Every Day
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Barbecues, apple pies, swimming and fireworks are just a few of the things that many of us enjoy on the Fourth of July. These are all fun ways to celebrate America’s Independence Day, but it’s important to reflect on the true meaning of the holiday. As parents, it’s important to teach our children about the birth of our nation and the significance of our country’s history. Reading age-appropriate books that focus on American history is a great family activity. In addition, it’s good to revisit our own patriotism and remind ourselves of the rich history and traditions and that Christianity and faith played a significant role in establishing our freedoms. We should never take our freedoms from granted. Part of our freedom is the ability to attend the church of our choice and practice our religion; this is certainly something to celebrate. While we look back to our founding fathers with gratitude on this Independence Day, we can also look to the future with a renewed faith and assurance. “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord,” - Psalm 33:12.
The Story of America’s Birthday By Patricia A. Pingry
America: A Patriotic Primer By Lynne Cheney
The Star-Spangled Banner By Peter Spier
This engaging book introduces little ones to the story of the origins of America. Colorful illustrations paired with the toddler-friendly text help to explain the connection between the Declaration of Independence, American Revolution as well as Fourth of July festivities. Thoroughly researched, historically accurate and accessible for even the youngest of children, this book helps kids understand the reasons we celebrate the birthday of our country every year.
Teach your kids the ABCs of American history and reinforce the godly values, ideals, people and events that make our country great. This fun book features delightful illustrations, draws on a lifetime of learning about the American past as well as the inspiration that comes from witnessing recent history firsthand and teaches history by celebrating the diversity, tenacity and faith of the American people.
With a historic note at the end, this is an excellent way to introduce children not only to the words of our country’s national anthem, but also to the background it was born out of, and the meaning of the lyrics. This magnificent tribute takes readers from our anthem’s turbulent origins at the Battle of Baltimore through the flag’s significance in modern-day America. It’s a must-have for every American family’s library.
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We the Kids: A Preamble to the Constitution of the United States By David Catrow A long time ago, some smart guys had some smart ideas, and they wrote them down in the Preamble to the Constitution. You have probably read it before, but do you know what it means? And did it ever make you laugh? Now it will! In this book’s great illustrations, this fun-filled look at the Preamble provides an accessible look at America’s founding ideal for citizens of all ages.
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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
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Grace Community Church 1425 N Valrico Rd., Valrico (813) 689-9781 Harvest Bible Chapel Bloomingdale High School 813-699-0517 Love First Christian Center 12847 Balm Riverview Rd., Riverview 813-671-2009 River of Life Christian Center 6605 Krycul Ave, Riverview 813-677-4453 New Life Christian Church 401 S. Saint Cloud Ave, Valrico 813-548-2733 South Bay Church 13498 US 301 S., Riverview 813-677-0721 The Chapel at FishHawk 6026 Churchside Dr., Lithia 813-661-7105 The Crossing Church - Main Campus 10130 Tuscany Ridge Dr., Tampa, (813) 626-0783 The Crossing Church - SouthShore 2409 East College Ave., Ruskin (813) 626-0580 The Palms Church 207 New Hope Rd., Brandon (813) 841-9598 True Sanctuary 6528 US Hwy 301 S., Suite 114, Riverview (813) 319-5862 PENTECOSTAL Destiny Church 2322 11th Ave. SE, Ruskin (813) 645-3337 HighPoint Church of Brandon 2207 Lithia-Pinecrest Rd., Valrico/Brandon (813) 685-4827 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Brandon -PCUSA 121 Carver Ave., Brandon (813) 689-4597 Redeemer Church-PCA 12404 Boyette Rd., Riverview (813) 741-1776 Westminster Presbyterian Church PCA 402 E. Lumsden Rd., Brandon (813) 689-6541
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
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Volume 25 | Issue 07
Page 9
Pastor’s Corner Jomo Cousins, PhD
AGREEMENT By Pastor Jomo Cousins, PhD
Amos 3:3 (NLT): 3 Can two people walk together without agreeing on the direction? Before any great venture, business leaders must first agree upon the direction in which they are going. Be sure to know who is driving the bus, who is on the bus and who needs to get off of the bus. Nothing kills momentum in a business organization quicker than people who are out of position. When evaluating potential business partners, I have learned to consider the following things: Can I trust them? Are we equally yoked? Do we have the same mindset spiritually? Relationally? Do we have the same work ethic? Do their skills complement or complete what I lack? Is there a shared passion for the business idea?
Is the potential partner open, honest and transparent about information, including personal information? What’s their track record? Have they had other successful ventures? Do they quit too soon or get frustrated easily? Can we disagree and still be productive? On an annual basis, I make evaluations of the associations I have in order to determine how productive or fruitful our partnerships are. Time is finite. We must be judicious about who we spend it with. People are like elevators—they can take you up or take you down. Prayer: Father God, I pray for the wisdom and discernment to choose the proper associations, in Jesus’ name. Amen. Excerpt from: 60 Prayers in 60 Seconds, Page 10.
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
MERCY FULL PROJECT ANIMAL RESCUE SEEKS VOLUNTEERS AND DONATIONS TO KEEP MISSION ALIVE By Debra Garcia
According to “Sandra and CherShelter Medicine, rise help with the inover 300,000 dogs ternal work, answering and cats were ademails and coordinatmitted to Florida ing adoptions; we have shelters in 2020. Jessy, our newest More than half of member, helping with these intakes were social media; and Mirstrays found on the iam—she has been side of the road. helping MFP since the Not to worry, a beginning of December fairly new animal 2019. Also at the facilrescue has come ity [are] our wonderto save the day. Inful volunteers, Beth, troducing: Mercy Mackey, Dan, Claude,” Full Project (MFP). said Acuna. Started by Heydi Heydi Acuna posing with a rescue dog at an Even though the adoption drive in Riverview. Acuna, Mercy Full rescue was founded in Project is an animal rescue that’s main Tampa, Mercy Full Project is very much goal is to spread empathy, kindness and present within East Central Hillsborough love as humanely possible. County. It has had many rescue drives Mercy Full Project was founded by in FishHawk, Riverview, Brandon and Acuna way back in October of 2019. Valrico. Many of the organization’s volBack then, the entire organization was unteers live in these areas as well; take inside her car. Now, over a year later, the Melissa Lacey, a Valrico resident. Mercy Full community has blossomed “After fostering several dogs and seewith so many volunteers, a new location ing them matched with loving homes and more love for these animals than and watching them transform from sad, anyone can count. frightened, sometimes emaciated, sick, “I’ve dedicated my whole life to help sad souls to happy, healthy, loving and animals in need however I could and I trusting dogs who had been given a new was at a point in life where I couldn’t lease on life and the opportunity to live wait any longer and I wanted to start their best lives, I was hooked,” said Lacmy very own nonprofit organization ey. with my own ideas to help dogs and cats Mercy Full Project is always looking that need it the most,” said Acuna. for new volunteers and donations. What Acuna is not the only one who dedi- are needed most are new fosters. cates so much time and effort to Mercy For more information on Mercy Full Full Project. She now has many helping Project, visit its website at https://merhands who all play a big part in the Mer- cyfullprojects.business.site/ or Facebook cy Full community. @MercyFullProject.
WWW.WOMENSCAREFL.COM
July 2021
Volume 25 | Issue 07
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
LITTLE FREE PANTRY
IS IMPACTING THE BLOOMINGDALE COMMUNITY
Page 11
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR LOCAL AREA VALEDICTORIANS & SALUTATORIANS
By Laura Marzullo
Food, Hygiene items, paper goods— ensemble of food items, paper products the Little Free Pantry is equipped with and hygiene elements allows the comeverything you need. munity to take one step The legacy of a Little forward in coming toFree Pantry has existgether. People are able ed and been nourishto supply the pantry ing neighborhoods for with items they need many years throughout or believe other people and out of the country will need; although, if and has now come to needed, the congregaBloomingdale. tion shared a list of sugInspired by the cregested items. ation, Mike McCorThe Little Free Panty mack, pastor of First is First Presbyterian Presbyterian Church Church of Brandon’s of Brandon, was inter‘trial run.’ As time goes ested in having a Little on, the members will Free Pantry in the comadjust what is needed. munity. This pantry is “We will see how located on Morgan St. well it is received in our between the church’s neighborhood” and also Bloomingdale’s Little Free Pantry, Morgan St. entrance located on Morgan Street between the be observant on “how and the Family Prom- First Presbyterian Church of Brandon’s responsible people in ise Day Center. The Lit- Morgan St. entrance and the Family our congregation are to Promise Day Center. tle Free Library boxes restocking it,” said Reynfound in neighborhoods where people olds. take a book or give a book encouraged One of the church members, Keith the Little Free Pantry to develop. Reynolds, is the builder behind the Lit“Anyone is welcome to take items that tle Free Pantry. The congregation is are needed with no questions asked, and extremely devoted to what the Little anyone that wants to donate items is Free Pantry embodies. In fact, after six welcome to do that as well,” said Sandra months, if the need for additional Little Reynolds, chairperson for the Mission Free Pantries in the community enlarges, Ministry Team. three gentlemen in the congregation are This Little Free Pantry is placed with willing to build more. the intent that neighbors will help proProviding and receiving goods changvide for one another. Neighbors are able es and impacts lives. The Little Free Panto see each other’s battles and feel en- try overall allows individuals to create couraged to make their days better. The something bigger than themselves.
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Seffner Christian Academy
Valedictorian Arthur Hays of Seffner Christian Academy achieved a GPA of 4.639 and plans to attend a Florida university in the fall.
Salutatorian Jaileen Borrero of Seffner Christian Academy achieved a GPA of 4.46 and plans to attend the University of Central Florida.
Grace Christian School
Image not available Valedictorian Allyson Marie Lim-Dy of Grace Christian School achieved a GPA of 4.54 and plans to attend the University of South Florida.
Salutatorian Savannah Parker of Grace Christian School achieved a GPA of 4.10 and plans to attend Palm Beach Atlantic University.
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
July 2021
ROTARY CARES A TON CHALLENGE BENEFITS LOCAL NONPROFITS
SUMMER NIGHTS WITH FIREWORKS AND ENTERTAINMENT COMES TO BUSCH GARDENS
Numerous local nonhearing from various profit organizations Rotarians how their such as Feeding Tampa clubs could not do the Bay, Metropolitan Minnormal club fundraisistries and much more ers, activities and projreceived an abundant ects they were used to amount of donations doing.” during the Rotary With the challenge Cares A Ton Challenge, itself, Rotarians had which began on March several simple rules to 1 and ended on May adhere to. For instance, 31. A total of 25 Rotathe clubs appointed a ry Clubs participated club representative to in this challenge with keep track of their do74.5 tons of household nations in pounds. The goods, clothes and clubs also encouraged more donated, equalRotarians within their ing 149,084 pounds clubs to donate houseoverall. These 74.5 hold goods, clothes tons far surpassed the Past District Governor Joyce Gunter (left) and more that one and Assistant District Governor Lesley could equate to pounds 50 tons goal. Zajac (right) delivering their donations. This Rotary Cares A to then be donated to Ton Challenge project was started by the charitable organizations of their a member of the Rotary Club of Au- choice. Donated items were delivered burndale. This year, the club decided while utilizing all of the safety prototo challenge all Rotary Clubs in Rotary cols and guidelines. These are a few exDistrict 6890. Specifically, Rotary Dis- amples of the rules for this challenge. trict 6890 encompasses Rotary Clubs Rotary Club of FishHawk-Riverview in Hillsborough, Hardee, Highlands won the challenge with a total of and Polk Counties. With it being a dis- 366.9 lbs. per capita in donations. District-wide challenge, everyone worked trict Governor Elect Deborah Williams toward a common good by also fulfill- shared her thoughts about the club ing “Service Above Self,” one of Rota- winning first place, saying, “With Fishry’s official mottoes, which ties into Hawk-Riverview being such a diverse the club’s mission. club, we have willing hearts and pasLinda Johnson, assistant governor of sionate souls to help others no matter Rotary District 6890, explained how how near or far the people are in our the idea of this year’s challenge came lives and community.” into fruition: “With the challenges For more information, visit https:// brought forth by COVID-19, we were fishhawkriverviewrotary.org.
For more than menu inspired by 100 nights this backyard summer summer, guests can cookouts with a Busstay late and safely ch Gardens twist. enjoy world-class Adults 21 and over coasters, electrifycan indulge in new ing entertainment g l ow - i n - t h e - d a r k throughout the park summer cocktails or and more during refreshing nonalcoextended hours holic drinks that are at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Every night through Sunday, Summer Nights is underway at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. August 8, guests can look to the sky for the new ‘Spark! A equally beautiful Nighttime Spectacular,’ featuring an ex- and satisfying plosive new firework and special effects for the perfect production. ‘Spark!’ will feature an explo- end to a summer sive array of fireworks and exciting effects night. from dazzling lasers to graceful water eleEntertainment will include DJ Block Parments and dramatic pyrotechnics. ‘Spark!’ ties, the all-new ‘Cirque Electric’ show and is offered every Friday, Saturday and Sun- the return of the ‘Turn It Up’ ice skating day night at 9:15 p.m. from May 28 to show. Monday, September 6, including extra preCelebrate all summer long and vissentations from Thursday to Sunday, July it again and again with a Busch Gardens 1-4 for Independence Day and on Septem- Fun Card, with which guests can pay for ber 6 for Labor Day. a day and play all year, with few restricLong before the first burst of ‘Spark!’ tions. For the price of a single-day ticket to covers the night sky, guests can join in the Busch Gardens, the Fun Card allows access evening excitement with new entertain- throughout the year, so you can visit again ment, music, food and drinks for the park’s and again and experience great events like biggest and brightest summer celebration. Summer Nights, Bier Fest, Christmas Town A new event for this year is the Pre-Par- and more. ty on the Festival Pathway, where guests Guests can visit www.BuschGardenwill be greeted with glowing lights strung sTampa.com for more information and among the trees, live music and more. The reservations—and to purchase tickets, Fun stunning visual journey on the Festival Cards or Annual Passes. Fans can stay up Pathway will spark the spirit of summer in to date with park events, attractions and everyone. more by following Busch Gardens Tampa There is also a new seasonal summer Bay on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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Volume 25 | Issue 07
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
LIMONA PARK OFFERS FIRST PUBLIC DISC GOLF COURSE DESIGNED BY LOCAL WORLD CHAMP
Assisted Living
“Tessera Brandon... living your lifestyle.”
By Libby Hopkins
in the 1970s and shares with golf the objective of completing each hole in the fewest strokes, or, in the case of disc golf, the fewest throws. A golf disc is thrown from a tee area to a target, which is the ‘hole.’ The hole can be one of a number of disc golf targets; the most common is an elevated metal basket. As a player progresses down the fairway, he or she must make each consecutive throw from the spot where the previous throw landed. The trees, shrubs and terrain changes located in and around the fairways provide challenging obstacles for the disc golfer. Limona Disc Golf Course was designed by world-re- Finally, the ‘putt’ lands in the basket nowned disc golfer JohnE and the hole is completed. McCray. McCray is the course designer for Limona Disc Golf Course. He is also a Limona Disc professional disc golfer who has traveled Golf Course was the country, competing with his wife as the first public his caddy. He was also in the world top 10 disc golf course of disc golf players. in Hillsborough “We have both been involved with disc County. From start to finish, it took 18 golf for 25 years,” McCray said. “I’m no months to get the course installed. The longer top 10 in the world, that was a few disc golf course is free to play. years ago, but I am a world champion, “There are several leagues scheduled U.S. Masters champion, 13-time Florida throughout the week if you want to get Tour champion and I have won over 250 more involved with the Limona commutournaments as a professional.” nity,” said JohnE McCray of the disc golf “I think what I like most about being league. “Tuesdays at 6 p.m. is Doubles involved with the Limona community is and the cost is $6, Thursdays at 6 p.m. that every single one of us takes pride in are Handicaps and the cost is $8, SaturLimona Park,” McCray said. “We’re all out days at 9 a.m. is also Handicaps and the there taking care of the park and enjoycost is $8 and then on Thursdays at 6:45 ing the beautiful scenery.” a.m. is BCB Handicaps.” Limona Disc Golf Course is located at So what exactly is disc golf? Disc golf 1315 Lakewood Dr. in Brandon. To learn is played much like golf. Instead of a ball more about it, visit www.pdga.com/ and clubs, though, players use a flying course-directory/course/limona-discdisc or Frisbee. The sport was formalized golf-course.
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July 2021
TENNIS FOR A BETTER LIFE HELPS CHILDREN REACH GOALS THROUGH THE SPORT High 5, Inc. tennis 210 children who will particinstructor and Branipate in Benin. Contributions don resident Paul are tax-deductible. Another Segodo’s life was goal of TFBL is to provide tenchanged because of nis and education scholarships the sport of tennis. to the children whose parents He received tennis cannot afford to send them to scholarships that led school. In April, TFBL held a him to the U.S. from Kids Helping Kids tournament his home country at High 5, Inc. (formerly Branof Benin, one of the don Swim and Aquatic Center) poorest countries and raised $10,000 for the in West Africa. Afproject. It plans to have anTennis for a Better Life is a nonprofit organization that’s mission is to ter college, Segodo other Kids Helping Kids tourhelp children in the U.S. and Africa reach their full potential in life Tennis for a Better Life provides shoes and tennis rackets, hosts tourna- nament in August to raise started his foundathrough the game of tennis. ments and feeds children at the events. tion, Tennis For a more money. Segodo, along much and couldn’t afford to send him Better Life (TFBL), to help kids from his with TFBL volunteers, plans According to the website, Tennis for a country get the same opportunities that to school. on going to Africa from Wednesday to FriIn 2010, Segodo made a trip back to Better Life is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit orga- day, September 1-24 to accomplish their he was fortunate enough to get as a kid. nization that’s mission is to help children Segodo picked up a tennis racket and his home country and was astonished by in the United States and Africa reach their mission. was taught the sport by his father, who the condition of the courts that the chil- full potential in life through the game of “We want to teach these kids how to was a tennis instructor. He laughs about dren were playing on. They were playing tennis while sharing the gospel of Jesus fish instead of giving them a fish,” said how his family is entrenched in tennis, de- on the same court that he played on as a Christ. They provide shoes and tennis rack- Segodo. “Tennis has done so much for me. spite soccer being the more popular sport 6-year-old. The kids didn’t have the proper ets, host tournaments and feed the chil- With tennis, I was able to travel the world in his country. At just 9 years old, Segodo equipment to play tennis, the courts were dren at the events. and get a scholarship. Tennis teaches so was offered a tennis and education schol- cracked and the nets had holes in them. TFBL, which funded a court resurfacing many life lessons—Tennis for a Better Life arship to train at the International Tennis This inspired him to give back to the chil- in Benin three years ago, has purchased wants to give that same opportunity that Academy in the U.S. He later received a dren of his home country. I had to other children, where one day they “That really touched my heart and really land and has goals of raising $50,000 for will be able to provide for themselves.” full tennis scholarship to Palm Beach Atits project of building four new courts, purlantic University and earned his BS degree, inspired me to do something about it,” said chasing new nets and replacing old ones, If you would like to donate, you can changing his life for the better. Segodo Segodo. “When I came back to the United building a water fountain by the courts, do so through www.tennisforabetterlife. remarks how tennis was his way out of States, I partnered with my wife and some running weekly clinics, sharing the gospel org or www.freefunder.com/campaign/tfpoverty because his parents didn’t have friends and we started Tennis For a Better of Jesus Christ and providing hot meals to bl-project. Life.”
Volume 25 | Issue 07
Expires July 15, 2021
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Page 15
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
FIELDS & TABLE FRESH MARKET GROCERS IS NOW OPEN
By Kate Quesada
Have you we’re focusing on checked out the what we know and new Fields & Table do best—giving yet? The boutique the community the specialty grocery best grocery shopretailer opened ping experience its doors in Riverfrom a product, as view last month well as educationto a very warm al, standpoint. We welcome from the want people to be community. informed about Fields & Table what they’re putSpokesperson ting into their bodAmy Lundy wants ies and we want to thank everyone them to know that who has made the their food should store opening such look as good as it a success. tastes. Whether “We are so apit’s a three-course preciative of the meal for a party continued support they’re throwing and feedback,” said or a Tuesday night Lundy. prepared meal Fields & Table opened recently in Riverview. T h e they’re looking for, 8,000-square-foot indoor store is filled we absolutely have them covered. And our with locally sourced, fresh, healthy as well team loves talking food and recipes, espeas affordable products. Fields & Table of- cially our butcher.” fers a huge produce department filled with Lundy also explained that if the store the freshest fruits and vegetables, a meat doesn’t stock a particular product that is and seafood department staffed by an ex- available from local vendors and farms, perienced butcher with the best cuts and Fields & Table will work to special order it. varieties offered in the area, a stocked deli To make shopping even more affordable featuring a great assortment of Boar’s Head and easy for customers, Fields & Table has products, baked goods, prepared foods and an app available for download in Google a floral department. Some of the store’s Play and the Apple Store. Through the app, unique features include a do-it-yourself or- customers will be able to see specials and ange juicer, self-serve pineapple corer and find coupons. Order pickup and delivery opa made-to-order, customizable guacamole tions are also coming soon. and salsa bar. Fields & Table, located at 11531 Balm Riv“Fields & Table is all about supporting our erview Rd., is open from Monday to Saturcommunity and making the shopping ex- day, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., and on Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 perience enjoyable,” said Lundy. “We’re not p.m. Go to www.fieldsandtable.com or visit trying to be a restaurant or a coffee shop, its www.facebook.com/FieldsandTable.
July 2021
WAWA OFFERS FREE ADMISSION FOR BOK TOWER GARDENS ON SELECT DATES THIS SUMMER By Taylor Wells For those who enjoy of azaleas, camellias and nature and are looking magnolias…showcasing for something fun and an ever-changing work of free this summer, Wawa art,” states the website. has a special offer. On the A big part of Bok Tower last Friday of each month Gardens is its plant confrom June through Sepservation efforts, including tember, it is providing the propagation, reintrofree admission into Bok duction, monitoring and Tower Gardens from 8 management of 64 rare a.m.-5 p.m. Mark your Central and North Floricalendars for Summer Wawa is providing free admission da plant species as part Fun Days fueled by Wawa into Bok Tower Gardens for every- of its National Collection one on the last Friday of each month on June 25, July 30, Auof endangered and threatfrom June through September. gust 27 and September ened plants. Guests can see 24. some of the state’s rarest species in the Bok Tower Gardens is a 250-acre con- Endangered Plant Garden, which changes templative garden located at 1151 Tower constantly, as the species’ varied lifecycle Blvd. in Lake Wales. Fifty of those acres stages provide a different show each seaare cultivated gardens, and the rest are son. nature preserves and nature trails. Among the most notable attractions at Built in 1929, “We originally started as the Gardens is the 205 ft. Singing Towa bird sanctuary and a garden, but our er, a massive musical instrument with founder, [Edward Bok], wanted a place a 60-bell carillon at the very top. The where humans could connect to nature neo-Gothic tower was designed in 1929 to and get away from what he called the be a focal showpiece for the center of the ‘electrification of Americans,’” said Erica Gardens. Concerts occur at 1 p.m. and 3 Smith, DBA, director of business develop- p.m., and the bells chime on the hour and ment at Bok Tower Gardens. half-hour. The destination has many garden highVisitors can also check out The Shop at lights, such as the River of Stone, Kitchen Bok, Blue Palmetto Café, nature trails like Garden and Outdoor Kitchen, Pollinator the Preserve Trail and Pine Ridge Trail, as Garden and many others. One of its won- well as many other activities and areas derful aspects is the wildlife, including throughout the Gardens. 126 different bird species as well as the To receive Wawa’s complimentary adthreatened gopher tortoise and endan- mission, stop by the Bok Tower Gardens gered eastern indigo snake. entrance gate. No purchase, voucher or “Acres of ferns, palms, oaks and pines reservation is necessary. For more inforfashion a lush backdrop for flowering fo- mation about the Gardens, visit https:// liage and the spectacular seasonal color boktowergardens.org/.
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Volume 25 | Issue 07
Page 17
FAITH & FOOTPRINTS
The Baltimore Basilica – Baltimore, Maryland The Baltimore Basilica was founded in 1806 and is one of America’s premier displays of architecture, as well as the first great cathedral built in America after the signing of the Constitution. The basilica, also known as America’s First Cathedral, has been a symbol of religious freedom in America for more than 200 years and is a spectacular sight featuring a massive dome, 24 skylights and a classic European style. The Baltimore Basilica was constructed between 1806 and 1863, designed by two prominent Americans, including John Carroll, cousin of a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and Benjamin Henry Latrobe, who is considered the “father of American architecture.” Latrobe was also the principal architect for the United States Capitol. The basilica, which culminated years of refinement by Latrobe, is now considered one of the world’s finest examples of 19th-century architecture. During construction, the only building that could compete with it in size, scale and architectural sophistication was the United States Capitol. It was considered the most advanced building in the country at the time. For more than 100 years until the American Revolution, the Catholic Church consisted
By Kelly Wise Valdes
of a persecuted minority. With the adoption of the Constitution, church leaders wanted to build a cathedral to celebrate their newly acquired right to publicly worship. As America’s first Catholic cathedral, the basilica is a significant part of Catholic history, hosting important events and high-profile visitors, including Mother Teresa of Kolkata and Pope St. John Paul II, who called the building “the worldwide symbol of religious freedom.” The basilica was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on October 1, 1969. Until recent years, more priests were ordained at the Baltimore Basilica than in any other church in the United States. Today, it is the focus of a diverse and revitalized neighborhood, the Mount Vernon Cultural District. Every year, more than 100,000 people visit the basilica, making it one of Baltimore’s top tourist destinations. To experience one of America’s most historic houses of worship and a masterpiece of American architecture, visitors can register to tour the building and gardens through a guided tour or a self-tour. Lectures, concerts and other cultural activities are also held at the Basilica on a regular basis. The Baltimore Basilica is located at 409 Cathedral St. in Baltimore, Maryland. For more information, visit www.americasfirstcathedral.org.
Live Like You Mean It ...
Love Is A Stronger Change Agent Than Judgement
By Derek Maul
“You died with Christ and were made free from the powers that influence this world. So why do you act as if you still belong to the world?” - Colossians 2:20.
On a Wednesday evening, my midweek men’s group discussed the phrase “Love the sinner, hate the sin.” “But pointing out other people’s sins so we can condescend to ‘love’ them is not what Jesus teaches,” I said. “Instead, God is calling us to be leaders in love, and love is a more powerful change agent than judgement. Love is also a more effective invitation than the threat of exclusion.”
Like the desperately sad guy said when my wife asked him if he had a church home: “All they ever did was tell me I was going to hell. Lady, I’m already there.” For many, Hell is not a destination to avoid, but a reality now. The invitation of Jesus is not so much about getting our ticket punched for paradise, but to join in with God’s initiatives of grace, mercy, justice and hope today. Jesus is inviting us—absolutely everyone—to trust God and to participate in God’s saving acts right now. Because Jesus has made the way clear. Here’s a good example: It’s like after
Expiration 08/01/2021
Victory in Europe Day (1945), when my mother’s London church invited German soldiers and downed airmen from the POW camp to afternoon tea and fellowship, welcoming them pretty much every weekend before they were repatriated. The message was clear, and it went something like this: “The war is over. We (the Allies) may have won, but what it means is that now you’re free too.” Jesus won this epic victory over death, and destruction, and despair, and brokenness, and evil, and sin—everything that separates us from God. So, like my mum’s church in the ruins
Expiration 08/01/2021
of the Blitz, we can say to absolutely everyone: “It’s over; we won, but what this means is that now you are free too.” That’s not judgment, it’s opportunity. Love, plain and simple, has already set us free. 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
Expiration 08/01/2021
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Page 18
A KID’S PLACE FOSTERING HOPE GALA NETS MORE THAN $500,000 Staff Report
social distancing and other COVID-19 health and safety precautions. As more people have been vaccinated and sporting events, such as golf tournaments, have been held locally, leaders with A Kid’s Place believed they could move forward with the event while offering a safe environment for guests. “This year’s event was successful beyond our wildest expectations, and a true testament that our community is bouncing back from the pandemic,”
Beth (Homes by WestBay Vice President and CFO) aand Tony Bradburn (above) as well as Brad (A Kid’s Place CEO) and Amy Gregory (right) participated in the recent fundraising gala for the charity.
The seventh annual Fostering Hope Gala, benefitting Brandon-based A Kid’s Place and presented by Homes by WestBay, raised more than $500,000 on May 8. The Arabian Nights-themed event was held at the outdoor Saunders Pavilion at Zoo Tampa with approximately 350 people in attendance and social distancing. Founded in 2009, A Kid’s Place provides support to children in the foster care system. Its homelike, residential program assists children from birth to age 18 who have been removed from their parents’ care because of abuse, neglect or abandonment. In addition to offering services to meet the social, medical, educational and psychological needs of foster children, A Kid’s Place puts a special emphasis on keeping siblings together in a safe, stable and nurturing environment. “We are absolutely thrilled and thankful for everyone who helped us reach this incredible milestone,” said Brad Gregory, CEO of A Kid’s Place. “Our community has shown us their extraordinary generosity, and their support of our much-needed mission. These funds will go a long way in supporting the children we assist.” This year’s Fostering Hope Gala is the first in-person event held by the nonprofit since the COVID-19 pandemic. It was delayed several months so that organizers could secure an outdoor location that allowed for
added Homes by WestBay Vice President and CFO Beth Bradburn, who is also the incoming vice chair of the nonprofit’s board of directors. “After a year of observing proper precautions, our guests were thrilled to enjoy a five-star evening and donate to an organization that helps our community’s most vulnerable kids.” Funds raised from the Fostering Hope Gala are used to directly assist in the essential daily health and welfare needs of the children it serves, including food and clothing, health and welfare necessities, fun activities and maintenance needs for A Kid’s Place’s residential facility. Homes by WestBay has been committed to A Kid’s Place for several years. As the largest locally owned, privately held homebuilder in Tampa Bay, Homes by WestBay’s leadership strongly believes in giving back to the local community not only through financial contributions, but also through their time and service. The company was also integral in launching A Kid’s Place’s independent living program, which helps high school graduates who are in the foster care system transition to living on their own. To learn more about A Kid’s Place, visit www.akidsplacetb.org.
July 2021
NEWBORNS IN NEED CELEBRATES A DECADE OF CARING FOR INFANTS IN THE COMMUNITY
By Hayley Fedor
For a decade, Newto clothe their infant. borns in Need of Valrico Initially, “I looked onhas steadfastly supline, I read about how ported infants and their they support preemies families during difficult and I myself was a preetimes and hardships. mie at 2 lb., 6 oz., and Through thoughtfulI know how difficult it ly selected items and was way back then to handmade gifts, the get preemie stuff,” said volunteers at Newborns Mowery “I had no clue in Need offer love to inwhat I was getting into, fants in the form of care but I knew it was what packages. I wanted to Since its founding in support.” July of 2011, the Valrico There are chapter of Newborns in currently Need has operated with around 40 volthe mission “to take Newborns in Need Founder Sue Mowery unteers with care of sick and needy (left) delivers care packages to Nurse-Fam- the organization, some babies for families in ily Partnership in addition to many other of which are long-disorganizations throughout the area. case of crisis to help tance but still particiwhere help is needed,” said Sue Mowery, pate by mailing in donations for care packfounder and director of Newborns in Need ages. of Valrico. This year, Newborns in Need of Valrico Newborns in Need currently supports plans to celebrate its special 10-year anniseven organizations in the area, including versary on Saturday, July 10. Customarily, Brandon Regional Hospital, Tampa General the volunteers meet on the second SaturHospital and one of its primary partner- day of each month at the SonLife Baptist ships, Choices in Brandon. Church in Valrico. Each handcrafted care package delivIn honor of the anniversary, Mowery ered by the nonprofit includes up to 21 reflected on one of her most memorable baby items that provide relief for families moments with the nonprofit and stated, “I in difficult situations. Every recipient re- saw a lady that had a 1-pound baby I got ceives a homemade blanket in addition to to see. She was able to let me see the baby, other necessities like infant outfits, a small she gave me permission and it was like our toy and washcloths. little project together to make clothes for The volunteers at Newborns in Need also that 1-pound baby.” make bereavement gifts out of donated For more about Newborns in Need and wedding dresses for families that have lost to get involved with the organization, visit a baby. With the donations, they create the nonprofit’s Facebook page @NINCWsmaller dresses that individuals can select FL or call Sue Mowery at 833-1786.
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Volume 25 | Issue 07
Page 19
YOUR MONTHLY CATCH: MOVIE NIGHT, TIM TEBOW, AND MORE!
By Kelly Wise Valdes
LIFE SURGE Tampa – America’s No. 1 Christian Business Event
Popcorn And Pajama Night At Alafia Baptist Church
Are you kids looking for some fun activities this summer? Well look no further! Grab some popcorn and PJ’s and join in on the festivities for Kids’ Movie Night. This event is being held on Wednesday, July 14 at 7 p.m. at Alafia Baptist Church, located at 222 Alafia Church Rd. in Lithia. The movie will be announced soon. For more information, visit www.alafiabaptist.org or call 634-8845. For more summer activities, follow the church on Facebook at www. fa c e b o o k . c o m /a b c churchoffice.
LIFE SURGE is biblically based business event uniquely focused on helping business owners, salespeople, marketing leaders and organizational leaders achieve real, measurable growth in themselves and in their organizations. Attendees will learn strategies from Christian experts in business growth, sales and marketing while networking with hundreds of local and like-minded Christian business people, all seeking a high return on their time and financial investment. The Tampa event will include guest speakers Tim
Tebow and Willie Robertson from Duck Dynasty and Anne Beiler, owner of Auntie Anne’s Pretzels. The event is taking place at the Florida State Fairgrounds on Friday, July 16 at 8 a.m. For more information and ticket prices, visit www.lifesurge.com.
tain the audience with an amazing studio performance. Dancing for Donations is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to make dancing more available to all children in the Tampa Bay area. For more information, visit www.dancing4donations.org.
Confi-dance In Christ With The Priceless Journey
Dancing for Donations is hosting a unique summer camp in Brandon that pairs dancing with crafts and Bible studies related to The Priceless Journey. The camp will take place from Monday to Friday, July 1923. Students will learn how they are priceless, unique, strong and more. At the end of the week, students will enter-
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Bell Shoals Baptist Church in Brandon is hosting a patriotic event on Thursday, July 8 at 7 p.m. The toe-tapping evening features the Eastern Hillsborough Community Band. This unique band has been focused on bringing quality concert band music to the Tampa Bay area since 2009. A $5 donation is suggested at the door. Come and enjoy a fun-filled evening of music with the whole family. For more information, visit www.ehcb.org. Bell Shoals Baptist is located at 2908 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon.
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Page 20
July 2021
HOT OFF THE CHRISTIAN NEWS WIRE
By Kelly Wise Valdes
America’s Nonprofits Face “Severe Shortage” Of Fundraisers
will stop in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Austin, Texas; and Charlotte, North Carolina before the final show on Friday, September 3 in Jacksonville. For a full list of tour stops and ticket sales, visit https://arep.co/t/ chris-tomlin--kari-jobe-bethel-music.
Classes To Earn Christian Accredited Degrees Globally Online
for KING & COUNTRY Announces Upcoming Movie Projects Tickets On Sale Now For First-EvCMM College of Theology, now entering Highlighting Their Family, Caer Mega Tour With Chris Tomlin, its 15th year of offering affordable Chris- reer tian accredited degrees globally online in GRAMMY-winning Australian duo for Kari Jobe & Bethel Music Tickets are on sale now for the worship event of the summer. Join Chris Tomlin, Kari Jobe and Bethel Music’s Brian and Jenn Johnson and Jonathan and Melissa Helser as they share the stage on tour for the first time ever. Dante Bowe and Brandon Lake of Bethel Music will join the tour for select dates, as well as Josh Baldwin, David Funk and Emmy Rose of Bethel Music. These artists will ignite the flame of worship in believers of all ages after nearly 15 months. Concertgoers will experience a journey of rejoicing after one of the hardest seasons ever endured. This worship tour marks the beginning of a season full of hope. These leaders will share one stage, leading in one voice and lifting up one name as fans come to celebrate the ability to gather and worship together. The 13-city amphitheater tour will kick off on Friday, August 13 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and
English and Spanish, is accepting applications for the next school term starting in August and graduation in May 2022. Courses are offered for remote learning, which is great for busy, working families. CMM offers a unique, engaging, transformative and experiential atmosphere where students learn along with others from various nations. The college offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral and Ph.D. degrees. It is now accepting applications for classes starting in August 2021. Classes are also available in Spanish. For more information, visit www.cmmtheology.org.
KING & COUNTRY, led by brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone, have two movie projects lined up highlighting their family and musical journey. The band’s first project is a documentary called Return to Sydney: The for King & Country Journey, which focuses on the careers of Joel, Luke and their sister, Rebecca. The documentary is currently in production and is directed by brother Ben Smallbone of Radiate Films. The film will include clips of home videos and never-before-seen footage. The second project, Unsung Hero, is a “family dramedy” that follows the Smallbone family as they travel to America. It also showcases their mother, Helen Smallbone, and how she relied on her faith to raise nine children in a new home. Both projects will be released under their family production team’s banner, Radiant Films. For more information, visit www.forkingandcountry.com.
A new report on America’s multibillion-dollar nonprofit fundraising industry suggests it is on the brink of a staffing crisis that could affect millions of people. America’s 1.5 million-plus charitable organizations face a “severe shortage of qualified fundraisers” that could seriously restrict their efforts to raise critically needed funds, which, in turn, could impact millions of people served by them. Nonprofits are looking hard to hire fundraising talent, with three in every 10 of those surveyed reporting current vacancies in their teams, mostly in major gift fundraising. Nearly 84 percent of nonprofits surveyed said they’re struggling to find qualified candidates, with almost half
saying it’s “extremely challenging or nearly impossible” to find the right fit. America’s nonprofit fundraising industry is colossal. The total charitable giving from all sources totaled nearly $450 billion in 2019. The sector contributes approximately a trillion dollars to the U.S. economy each year, which amounts to almost six percent of total GDP. The full report can be viewed at https://dickersonbakker.com/ nonprofitstaffingstudy/.
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Volume 25 | Issue 07
HURRICANE VOLLEYBALL ACADEMY OFFERS SUMMER CLINICS AND MORE
By Kate Quesada
Hurricane Volleyball Academy has travel and local volleyball teams for ages 10-18 for both girls and boys, and this summer it is offering positional trainings, summer camps, free open gyms and, for the first time, college camps for boys and girls, both at the beach and indoors.
Do you have a volleyball player looking for something fun to do over the summer or a home club in the fall? Then look no further than Hurricane Volleyball Academy, based out of Central Baptist Church in Brandon. Owned by Brian and Victoria Adams, the family-run volleyball club offers growth for players between the ages of 9 and 18 at any level. With more than 25 years of combined teaching and coaching experience, Hurricane Volleyball Academy is going into its sixth season for girls and third for boys. The academy has travel and local volleyball teams for ages 10-18 for both girls and boys, and this summer it is offering positional trainings, summer camps, free open gyms and, for the first time, college camps for boys and girls, both at the beach and indoors. Brian and Victoria, who met on their first day of preplanning teaching at Eisenhower Middle School, work hard to make Hurricane Volleyball Academy stand out among other local volleyball clubs. “There is no lack of volleyball clubs in the area; what makes us different is our experience with teaching and encouraging youth and our record of achieving college scholarship opportunities for high-level athletes,” said Victoria. “Having been in the education field and athletes for so long, we know how to build not just the skills of the sport but the vital life lessons that only sports can expose you to.” The academy’s coaching staff also includes a sports trainer, nutritionist and sports psychologist that help players un-
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derstand what they go through as young athletes and how to achieve their goals. “We believe in teaching and coaching the person, not just the sport,” said Victoria. Recruitment is also offered for college bound players. “Brian’s previous work experience with the National Scouting Report has honed his skills at identifying what players need to make it to the next level in the sport,” explained Victoria. “We have a consistent track record of getting our players recruited to play at the college level. In our first four seasons, we had 84 percent of our 18-year-old players offered a scholarship, and 13 out of the 38 (around 33.3 percent) went on to play in college their freshman year.” Hurricane Volleyball Academy’s main practice facility is located out of Central Baptist Church at 402 E. Windhorst Rd. in Brandon and can be reached at 2200905. To learn more, email Hurricanevolleyballacademy@gmail.com or search on Facebook and Instagram for ‘hurricanevolleyballacademy.’
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Page 21
CENTERPOINT CHURCH’S YOUTH GROUP HOSTS ‘THE WEEKEND’ By Lily Belcher In addition to ferable. serving its comThe weekend munity and church is one of many members, Centerevents and activpoint Church in Valities that Velocity rico offers opporhosts throughout tunities for middle the year. During the schoolers and high school year, Velocity schoolers to explore hosts weekly stutheir faith and make dent gatherings on friends in their Wednesday, where Christian communimiddle schoolers and ty. One of these ophigh schoolers have portunities is ‘The the opportunity to Weekend’ hosted listen to a message by Centerpoint from Youth Pastor Church’s youth Centerpoint Church’s Velocity youth group an- Bradley Hamilton group, Velocity. and meet in small nounces ‘The Weekend.’ The Weekend is groups to discuss a two-day event, from Friday to Satur- their faith. day, July 9-10, held at the Centerpoint “We believe in the next generation and Church campus for rising sixth graders to their potential to change the world,” as graduating high school seniors (including stated by Velocity’s website. “That’s why the class of 2022 who just graduated in we’ve created an environment that will May). It is not an overnight event, so par- share truth, inspire students to live a gosticipants will need to be dropped off and pel-centered life and challenge them to picked up after each day. On July 9, the lead others toward Jesus—all while enevent will start at 5 p.m. and conclude its joying crazy games, loud music and youthfirst day at 10 p.m. The event is scheduled ful shenanigans with their friends.” to resume the next morning at 9 a.m. and Through its fun and interactive yearcontinue through 6 p.m. round events, Velocity has opened the “This high-energy weekend will be a fun door to teenagers and students to explore and safe experience for students to con- and learn about God while making the nect with their friends and explore their friends necessary to guide them through faith,” according to Centerpoint Church’s their faith journey. website. For more information on or to register Tickets for the event, which must be for The Weekend, visit centerpointfl.org/ purchased before Wednesday, June 30, velocity or contact the church at 689cost $50 and will cover the sessions, ac- 1906. To watch sermons from Velocity’s tivities and meals for students. Purchased services, visit its YouTube page or webtickets are nonrefundable and nontrans- site.
Page 22
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
DID YOU KNOW? PATRON SAINTS FOR 50 STATES
COLORADO - MOTHER CABRINI
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Catholic believers pray for the intercession of the saints in heaven so that they may pray for us on our behalf. Saints are able to intercede on our behalf and offer up to God the prayers of those on Earth. Patron saints are recognized as the heavenly advocates and special intercessors for many things, even states. If you want to ask for the special intercession on behalf of your state, do you know who to pray to? Francesca Saverio Cabrini, popularly known as Mother Cabrini, was born in 1850 in a small village outside of Milan, Italy, and she was the youngest of 13 children. Mother Cabrini became a nun in 1877 in Italy and in 1880 founded the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. She was as resourceful as she was faithful. Mother Cabrini’s outreach in the villages and communities provided donations of money, time, labor and support. She wanted to become a missionary in China and arranged a meeting in Rome with Pope Leo XIII in 1889. The Pope told her that he needed for her to go to New York, rather than to China as she had expected, and she was to help the thousands of Italian immigrants already in the United States. Upon arrival in the United States, Mother Cabrini was shocked at the chaos and poverty. She organized education classes for the Italian immigrants and provided for
the needs of the many orphans despite tremendous odds. She became a U.S. citizen and founded missionary institutions around the country, including one in Golden, Colorado, the Queen of Heaven Orphanage. Mother Cabrini traveled to Colorado in 1902 to visit Italian immigrant mine workers. She loved the mountains and purchased a piece of land in 1910 called Lookout Mountain. On the land, the Sisters of the Sacred Heart built an abbey and farmed the land, and orphan girls visited the site as a summer camp. The property was officially established as a shrine in 1946, the year she was canonized. In 1954, a 22 ft. statue of Jesus was erected at the highest point of the site. A 373-step stairway was placed for visitors to climb, following Mother Cabrini’s path up the mountain, marked with the Stations of the Cross. The summer camp closed in 1967 and the Stone House was used as a temporary convent until a permanent building was completed in 1970. Today, the convent contains a chapel, meeting rooms, gift shop, housing for the resident sisters and overnight accommodations for visitors. Mother Cabrini worked tirelessly up until her death in 1917. She traveled to Europe, Central and South America and throughout the United States. She made 23 transatlantic crossings and established 67 institutions, including schools, hospitals and orphanages. She was canonized a saint in 1946 and was the first American citizen to be canonized by the pope. In February 2020, the Colorado House approved a measure to replace Columbus Day, a federal holiday on the second Monday of October, and instead create a day in observance of Mother Cabrini.
July 2021
HOPE FOR THE AGES Hope is one of the driving forces that permeates the life of a Christian. It brings strength and vitality, even in the midst of life’s challenges. Hope is a powerful motivator, driving us to continue on in the face of adversity. It has sustained many martyrs throughout the ages. When hope vanishes, depression and anxiety take up residence, life becomes a chore and despair sets in. Hope needs to be grounded in reality, though. If built on falsehood, it’s just wishful thinking and may bring a momentary feeling of happiness, but will desert us in time of trouble. Eternity is what drives that hope, and what keeps us mentally strong in the face of adversity. “If,” as the Apostle Paul says in I Corinthians 15, “only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men.” Waiting and trusting is hard, but an eternal perspective relinquishes control and emboldens us to persevere through the difficulties that come. We may be battle-weary, but not battle-hardened. We can let go of bitterness, frustration and anger, and learn to forgive. We can learn to patiently wait for life’s storms to subside. In times of turmoil and chaos, we learn peace. In
By Bob Zoellner
the midst of uncertainty, we gain clarity. While learning to wait for closure, we seek the truth. In the middle of soul-sapping, energy-draining effort, we find rest. And in the center of all that is temporal, we wait for the eternal. In the Book of Acts, Paul was falsely accused, and spent years in prison because of that. He had many “serious charges against him, which they could not prove.” Did he weary? Did he struggle? Was it difficult? You bet. But God’s purposes were accomplished through this. And he held on to the promise and hope of Christ. Learn to live in that hope, the reality of Jesus Christ, who tells us 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). Darkness only lasts for the night, but joy comes in the morning. Remember, we are but jars of clay, but that is to reveal God’s glory through us even more (see 2 Corinthians 4:7-12). “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all,” (2 Corinthians 4:17). So, fix your eyes on Jesus. He is the Rock. He is the Lord. He is eternal.
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Volume 25 | Issue 07
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July 2021