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LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Vol. 26 | Iss. 6 | June. 2022

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FISHHAWK COUPLE SHARE THE GIFT OF LIGHT WITH HANDMADE NIGHT-LIGHT MINISTRY

By Michelle Caceres

17 17

11

18

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

04 11 17 18

When FishHawk they’ve never seen residents and retirees a night-light like Andy and Linda Dethese and it puts a Gagne received a gift smile on their face,” five years ago, they said Andy. “It makes didn’t know it would us feel good and it inspire them to share makes the person rethat gift with thouceiving it feel good.” sands of people.

On a recent flight The gift giver was out of Tampa, they Sun City Center resihanded over a nightdent Sam Pantano, and light to the employee the gift was a unique helping them check LED night-light, which FishHawk residents Andy and Linda DeGagne have given away more than 2,000 hand- in, who was working made night-lights to hardworking members of the community. he gave them at a lunhard on a holiday. She cheon. showed it off to her “I was really impressed with fellow coworkers so each of its unique design,” said Andy. them received one as well.

Pantano, who was in his 80s at “That happens a lot,” said the time and has passed away, Linda. designed the night-light himself, This month while eating at utilizing an LED base, safety pins, Cappy’s in Bloomingdale, the beads, wire and glue. Before he couple gave their server a died, he taught his friend, Drew night-light. She was happy to Godmar, how to make them, receive it and proudly showed then she taught Andy and Linda. it off to the kitchen staff. One “Sam was a religious man, and grateful staff member came we loved the idea of sharing to their table and recollected The couple has made more than light with others, so we decided that they’d given her one at 2,000 night-lights, giving them to her last job. to continue his legacy,” said Linda.

The night-lights cost a few dollars servers, hostesses, salespeople, emWith the demand for night-lights each to make. They purchase the ployees at local doctors’ offices and so strong, you’d think the retirees beads and safety pins from Amazon anyone else who looks like they need would want to set up shop at local and buy the bases from Walmart. a gift. When bestowing the light, craft fairs. “Nope, we don’t want to Inflation hasn’t spared the night- they always say “God bless you” so sell them,” they said. “Our reward light materials; the cost of each base they know the original gift giver. is the joy we get from giving them “People are surprised because away.” recently increased from $1.50 to $2.

NEW HOPE EARLY LEARNING CELEBRATES 56 YEARS SERVING COMMUNITY

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Are you searching for an early education program that would be the perfect first your preschool-aged child? Look no further than New Hope Early Learning. This faith-based school is a ministry of New Hope Church that has been providing children in the community a safe and loving education for 56 years.

Preschool Director Michelle Ashcraft is excited for the new registration and the upcoming educational school year. Registration is now open for the 2022-23 year.

“We’re similar to other learning centers, but we’re very lucky and blessed to have dedicated and loving staff that have been committed to New Hope Early Learning has been educating children in the teaching preschool-aged children in the Bran- Brandon community for 56 years. Registration is now open for the 2022-23 school year. don community for a long time,” said Ashcraft.

“Mrs. Pullara, who is retiring this year, has comby the state. There is a monthly tuition of $90 for mitted 42 years to New Hope Early Learning. Mrs. the extended VPK program.

Mahan has been here for 26 years.”

The center is offering the before and after-care New Hope Early Learning offers VPK as well as oth- this next school year as well as a Parent’s Morner programs. ing Out program. The current Parent’s Morning Out According to Ashcraft, VPK is free, but the school runs from 9-12 Noon on Tuesdays and Thursdays. will also offer an extended VPK class with an extra Parents can register as needed online and drop off. hour of enrichment beyond the three hours required Next school year, Parent’s Morning Out will take place

Monday through Friday and parents can pay a weekly fee of $100 or still drop in at $25 a day.

With 56 years of educating children, New Hope is certainly a foundation that is trusted by families and enjoyed by children.

“I’ve had two children that have gone through VPK at New Hope Early Learning,” said parent Arielle LeBlank.

“My third child will be starting in August 2022. We love NHEL. The teachers and staff are amazing. They truly love the children and are definitely called to this ministry. They do a great job of balancing learning and fun for the kids, ... easing them into the school routine.

I wouldn’t send my children anywhere else.”

New Hope Early Learning is located at 130 N. Moon Ave. in Brandon. For more information, call 813-6899482 or visit www.newhopeearlylearning.com.

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June 2022

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Volume 26 | Issue 06

VILLAGE INN RIVERVIEW & BRANDON FRANCHISE WINS AWARD

By Sharon Still Famous HospiInn Dean Latality Inc. recentFollette stated, ly awarded the “Our vision is area’s Village Inn simply this: to franchise owners take care of our its prestigious guests and our Franchisee of the team by deliverYear award. The Lehan Village Inn franchise consists of six Village Breakfast all day long is what made Village Inn famous.

Inn restaurants in the Greater Tampa area, including ing the best those in Brandon and Riverview, which family dinDanny Lehan purchased in 2020. ing experiVillage Inn Pancake first opened its ence so that each individual leaves with doors in Denver, Colorado in 1958 and a sense of well-being and satisfaction has been a fixture in the Brandon area with our great value.” for more than 40 years. With six deRaising Forks for Funds offers orcades of success, Village Inn has corpo- ganizations a chance to partner with rate and franchise restaurants totaling Village Inn to raise funds for its cause. more than 200, located primarily in the Organizations are able to keep 20 perRocky Mountain region, the Midwest, cent of event sales. Village Inn partArizona and Florida. ners with different types of organizaVillage Inn is known for its made- tions, including 501(c)(3) nonprofits, from-scratch buttermilk pancakes, teams, schools, university groups and fresh eggs cooked in any style, sizzling community organizations. “Village Inn’s bacon and pots of steaming hot cof- heritage is built on being active in the fee—quality breakfast all day long. community,” Lehan said.

The restaurant’s award-winning pies The Brandon restaurant is located like French silk, country apple and car- at 1995 W. Lumsden Rd. and can be amel pecan silk supreme are always a reached at 813-657-7382. The Riverhit at holidays or any day, especially view Village Inn, located at 10293 Big Wednesdays, when guests enjoy a free Bend Rd., can be reached at 813-741slice of pie with a required purchase.

3200. The restaurants are open seven The menu at Village Inn is not only days a week from 6 a.m.-10 p.m. and breakfast, as other options include are also open on Thanksgiving and fresh, never-frozen juicy burgers, fresh- Christmas Day. Choose dine-in, takeout ly made salads, all-American sandwich- or delivery, or try the drive-through at es and classic dinners like chicken-fried the Riverview location. Orders are also steak and pot roast. accepted online. For more information, Director of Operations for Village visit www.villageinn.com.

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Page 3

NONPROFIT LEADERSHIP ROUNDTABLE EXTENDS REACH WITH GREATER RIVERVIEW, GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER SUPPORT

By Linda Chion

Open to everyGreater Riverview area. body and backed Roughly 10 percent of by both the Greatthe chamber’s 720 memer Riverview and bers are nonprofits, DorGreater Plant City an said. chambers of com“Pat has been very merce, the Nonengaged with us, eduprofit Leadership cating the nonprofits Roundtable meets in our area and making virtually on the sure they are aware of fourth Tuesday of resources available, and the month. sharing resources in a Pat Simmons, challenging time,” Doran founder of the non- Pat Simmons, founder of Bikes For Christ, said. “He has personal profit Bikes For runs the Nonprofit Leadership Roundtable experience building up Christ, said he is his own nonprofit, and with chamber support. in a good place to I love the way he shares take the roundtable to information and grants opporits next level of engagetunities.” ment.

Virtual meetings allow the “The purpose is to roundtable to extend its reach, educate our nonprofits Simmons said, as he “brings in a and to help them conlot of good speakers to help edtinue to grow,” Simucate people as to how to grow mons said. “Also, the and make their nonprofits stronnetworking allows us ger.” to know what’s goBikes For Christ traces its roots ing on with our nonprofit friends and to a 2015 mission trip where Simhow we can all work together to make a mons said he learned “what real poverty stronger community.” is like in a third-world country.” Coming The brainchild of Plant City Chamber home, “I didn’t know what I wanted to, President Christine Miller, the roundtable but I wanted to do something to make a once met in chamber space, until office difference in my own community.” spaces were sold, and the chamber meets Working with organizations that serve now in temporary space. the poor and homeless, Simmons comMeanwhile, at a Riverview Chamber bined his love of cycling to mobility needs. gathering, Simmons talked about the Since 2016, Bikes For Christ works with roundtable, which is when Tanya Doran, more than 70 organizations across four the chamber’s chief executive officer, counties to provide bicycles for transporexpressed an interest in working with tation. the roundtable to extend its reach in the For more, visit www.bikes4christ.com.

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Page 4

Grace Notes

Steal my Show

By Debora Coty

I was recently leader had invited to speak heisted all her at a women’s conideas and used ference, bringing a them as the message from my central set. Her book, More Beauty, massive efforts Less Beast. I was had been hipreceded onstage jacked. by a highly regard“So, what ed teaching matridid you do?” I arch of the church. asked, eager to Someone the ladies hear her soluall knew and loved. tion, for Jan As I sat there is one of the listening, I was godliest peostunned. She was ple I’ve ever stealing my show, known. covering almost all “Well, at the points from my first, I was own carefully plotmad, but I realted out presentaized that anger tion. was the wrong My bestie Jan (right) and me.

How could I fix attitude if we this? I couldn’t come up with an entirely were both doing all we could in the name new presentation at the last minute. of the Lord. I couldn’t change the physiMy best friend Jan, sitting beside me, cal material. So, I prayed for a different whispered, “What’s wrong?” attitude, and I heard a still, small voice I confided with tears in my eyes, “She speak to my heart: ‘Go ahead and do the just covered my presentation. What am same presentation, just do it your way.

I going to do?”

I’ll make My message completely differJan seriously considered the question. ent through your specific gifts and abilI knew she would. She’s that kind of ities and it will minister to the audience wonderful friend. in an entirely unique way.’”

Jan, who is widely known for her exSo, I heeded Jan’s advice. traordinary children’s programs, said Amazingly, my attitude morphed into that once she spent countless hours one of praise. I prefaced my presentacoming up with an idea for a big VBS tion with thanks to the previous speakpresentation with elaborate staging and er, who “laid the perfect groundwork costuming details. She’d described her by presenting many of the same biblical ideas to the leader and then spent weeks points I’ll be expanding upon.” creating the details.

Then the Almighty showed up and When Jan arrived on the first day of stole the show from both of us. Exactly VBS, she was shocked to find that the the way it should be.

Debora M. Coty is an inspirational speaker and award-winning author of over 40 books, including the bestselling Too Blessed to be Stressed series. Visit with Debora anytime at www.DeboraCoty.com.

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June 2022

THE CHILDREN’S DREAM FUND TREATS KEYLA MARTINEZ TO HER DREAM SHOPPING SPREE

By Lily Belcher

Leah Wimberly, referred her to the Children’s Dream Fund.

“She is a really great example of embracing changes life brings and moving forward. I was reminded how resilient we all are—not just children but parents too,” said Children’s Dream Fund marketing specialist Lisa Halter. “And Keyla’s excitement while anticipating her Dream has brought joy to us as we plan, and yet another reminder of the positive impact a dream come true has on a child’s life.”

Halter explained that Martinez’s formerly long, curly hair has grown back straight following treatments. Prior to her diagnosis, Martinez never wanted to get a haircut so she could look like Rapunzel, but she has embraced the change and was Keyla Martinez was treated to a VIP shopping trip by Children’s Dream looking Fund. forward to shopping On April 20, Keyla Martinez was for new treated to a VIP shopping trip at accessothe Westfield Brandon mall by the ries, espeChildren’s Dream Fund. Keyla was cially for diagnosed with lymphoma and has her hair. finished treatments, just in time T h e for her to partake in her shopping Children’s dream.

D r e a m Martinez and her family arrived Fund is a at the mall in style with a limousine nonprofit ride from her house and signs and organizagift bags welcoming Martinez betion that fore she began shopping. She was has givtreated to special dressing rooms en over and escorted to her favorite stores, 3,000 pewhere staff went all out to invite Keyla Martinez arrived at the Westfield diatric paher on her VIP shopping spree.

Brandon mall in style. tients their “Keyla likes YouTube, and she sees shopping sprees. She always wanted to go dreams for over 40 years. It serves 3 to on one,” said mother Maria Martinez. “She 21-year-olds in West Central Florida sufalso loves fashion and accessories. She’s fering from life-threatening illnesses and works to give them their unique dreams. definitely a girly girl.”

“Every child deserves hope and a dream,” Martinez shopped with her mother, aunt, older brother and younger sister and re- as said by the website, “and our goal is to ceived a special lunch before doing more continue to make those dreams come true.”

For more information on the Children’s shopping.

The 10-year-old has been battling lym- Dream Fund, visit childrensdreamfund.org phoma at Orlando Health Arnold Palmer or contact Halter at lhalter@childrensHospital for Children and her social worker, dreamfund.org or 727-896-6390.

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Volume 26 | Issue 06

THE BIBLE’S MOST FAMOUS FRIENDSHIPS

RUTH AND NAOMI

The Bible is full of fascinating stories about human relationships, including friendships. In fact, stories of friendships are demonstrated throughout the Old and New Testaments. God wants us to have relationships—not just of the marital and familial kind but deep and abiding friendships as well. True friendship provides us with support, love and enjoyment and is nothing short of a gift from God. The friendship between Ruth and Naomi from the Old Testament is an example how friendships can be forged and enhance our faith. Ruth and Naomi began their friendship as family when Ruth married Naomi’s son. Through a series of unfortunate events for both women, they ended up more than just family.

We all experience heartbreak throughout our lives. Unfortunately, Naomi had a particularly hard time and suffered the loss of her husband, then both of her sons died within several years of each other. Grief-stricken, Naomi decided to move back to her hometown of Bethlehem. She told both daughters-in-laws to return to

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their own hometowns, to remarry and live good lives. One of her two daughters-inlaw goes, but the other, Ruth, tells Naomi that she will stay with her.

In Ruth 1:12, we learn that “Ruth clung to her.”

The word ‘clung’ in Hebrew means “to stick by and stay close,” but what defines this friendship is that they were joined together. Ruth joined with Naomi. Their friendship demonstrates God’s faithfulness to those who will serve each other when in need. Ruth makes an oath to stick by Naomi’s side no matter what, then Ruth works to provide for the two of them when Naomi is unable to contribute. Ruth’s love for Naomi was sacrificial.

Ruth 1:16-17 tells us, “But Ruth replied, ‘Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.’”

True friendship brings us and our friends closer to God. They help each other overcome challenges and celebrate each other’s good fortune. No matter where we are in life or where we stand with our faith, we have the opportunity to draw closer to God. Ruth and Naomi set a wonderful example to all women by having a shared love of God at the heart of their friendship.

.

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June 2022

NIGHT OF PRAISE, STUDENT SUMMER CAMP, CLAY SHOOT, MEN’S CHORUS AND MORE!

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Brandon Christian Church Hosts Night Of Praise

Church at 1239 W. Del Webb Blvd.

Conductor Kevin Goodenow led the Brothersin-Song with numbers that set toes to tapping. The community is invited to join in the fun and fellowship this coming fall season. After a two-year hiatus, the Men’s Chorus has restarted its annual celebratory dinner tradition. This time, the meal was held at the Hillsborough County Elks Lodge in Ruskin. For more information, visit www.sccumc.com.

Brandon Christian Church invites the community to a ‘Night of Praise’ on Saturday, June 4 at 6 p.m. The choir will be singing a mix of contemporary and classic praise songs and the audience is invited to pray, contemplate, sing along or do whatever God leads them to do to recharge, rebalance and leave refreshed. This event is open to all and is free, though donations are always welcome. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

Brandon Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is located at 910 Bryan Rd. in Brandon. For more information, call Student Summer Camp Offered 813-689-4021 or visit www.brandon- By Bell Shoals Church Student Summer Camp (for all comchristianchurch.org. pleted sixth-12th graders) is taking Sun City Center Men’s Chorus place at Camp Kulaqua, located in High Springs. Throughout the week, stuKicks Off New Season dents will be placed The Sun in teams determined City Center by grade and will take M e n ’ s part in large group Chorus worship sessions, topped off small group disits spring cussions, compeseason titions and many this year other fun activon April 3 ities. The cost is with ‘Re$425 with a $100 deposit. The flections and Memories’ with songs that took concertgoers back to that last day to register and make special moment. The performance payments is Sunday, June 12. The was at St. Andrew Presbyterian camp is from Monday, June 27

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If you enjoy shooting clays, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to enjoy a day at FishHawk Sporti n g Clays w i t h fellow believers. The event is taking place on at FishHawk Sporting Clays on Saturday, June 25 from 8:30-11 a.m. The cost is $23.50, plus an additional $17 if you need to purchase rounds. It costs $20 to rent a shotgun. FishHawk Sporting Clays, located at 13505 Hobson Simmons Rd. in

Center 4Life Learning Instructors Wanted

Would you like to be part of the Center 4Life Learning as an instructor? Center 4Life Learning is a nonaccredited adult education school serving southside Hillsborough communities. The center offers in-person spring and fall six-week semesters.

The fall semester begins on Monday, October 10 and is held at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center

campus. Center 4Life Learning instructors are needed for iPhone/iPad, conversational French, conversational Italian, bridge and mahjong. For more information, contact Sue Holter at 813-634-8607 or by email at center4life@sccumc.com. The church is located at 1210 W. Del Webb Blvd. in Sun City Center.

Volume 26 | Issue 06

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SUMMER READING PROGRAM RETURNS TO THE TAMPA-HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

By Tatiana Ortiz

Individuals of all ages can participate in the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library’s Summer Reading in-person and virtual events program, which begins on Wednesday, June 1 and runs through Sunday, July 31.

With this year’s theme of ‘Oceans of Possibilities,’ participants will get an opportunity to learn about an array of ocean and water-related topics. All of the library’s branches will also include in-person featured weekly events held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Reading challenges will be available for kids, tweens, teens and adults. Prizes and giveaways will also be awarded for participation in the reading challenges and virtual events. Community partners such as ZooTampa, Tampa Bay History Center, Hillsborough County Public Schools, Tampa-Hillsborough County Children’s Library Foundation, Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation and the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County will be assisting with the funding.

During the Summer Reading Program, people will gain knowledge about marine science, as a representative from ZooTampa will be presenting some virtual encounters with water-related animals.

Also, the Tampa Bay History Center will have a couple of history classes virtually

Residents are invited to participate in the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library’s Summer Reading Program.

about the Hillsborough River and more.

Christopher Sturgeon, learning experiences consultant at the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library, mentioned how individuals will benefit from summer reading.

“Every summer and throughout the year, we like to focus and encourage lifelong reading habits,” Sturgeon said.

Residents are welcomed to attend a virtual sneak peek event on Tuesday, May 17 at 6:30 p.m. This will consist of a preview of the special events, reading challenge and prizes that will occur.

Sturgeon shared his thoughts about what he hopes participants of the Summer Reading Program grasp from it.

“Just reinforcing the importance of reading with our challenges and knowing that the library is here to help them at each step of their lives, not just as kids but adults as well,” Sturgeon said.

For more information about Summer Reading Oceans of Possibilities, visit hcplc.org/summer.

Page 7

MANDOLIN MUSIC AND COAST GUARD SERVICE MARK SAN JUAN FAMILY LEGACY

By Linda Chion William ‘Bob’ played throughSan Juan reout the event ceived a standbut most draing ovation of matically after sorts at The the presentaRegent last tion of colors by month followBrandon High ing his rendition School JROTC of “God Bless members. AtAmerica” on a tendees re12-string manmained standing dolin, an inand protracted strument the applause ensued 90-year-old as San Juan learned to play his Photo courtesy of Linda Chion. strummed after enlisting Mandolinist William ‘Bob’ San Juan at The Regent on final notes. with the United As a volunApril 27 with his son-in-law, Robert Mancini.

States Coast Guard at age teer, San Juan typically plays 17. at nursing homes on Sundays With decades of playing and for special occasions under his belt, San Juan, a hosted by others. He said he Riverview resident, continwas particularly pleased to be ues a family legacy started opening the Hillsborough 100 by his father and carried out luncheon program in concert by each of his three brothwith the JROTC students, as ers, all of whom, like the he believes it is important for patriarch San Juan, played the mandolin young people to learn about military serand retired as guardsmen officers after vice. decades of collective service.

His mandolin brings back memories, as “We all were self-taught, and we loved San Juan continues a musical tradition the instrument because our dad played handed down by his father, Vicencio, and it,” San Juan said. “Growing up, we lis- deepened by his brothers, Vincent, Pedro tened to him play, and some of it must and Ramon. San Juan’s mandolin bears have stuck.” a photo of his wife of 68 years, Juanita, How much so was evident April 27 at who died in 2019 and urged him to conThe Regent in Riverview, where San Juan tinue playing. played to a packed house at the 2022 “I like playing for other people,” San Hillsborough 100 Conservation Challenge Juan said after his performance at The Kickoff Luncheon and Awards Ceremony, Regent. “It just makes me feel good. And presented by the Hillsborough Soil and I thank God for giving me whatever talent Water Conservation District. San Juan I have to be able to share it with others.”

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June 2022

Local Area Church Directory BAPTIST

Bay Life Church 1017 Kingsway Ave. Brandon ty Church (813) 661-3696 d., Valrico Bell Shoals Baptist - Brandon 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 Chapel Congregación Hispana igh School 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 ext. 242 ian Center Bell Shoals Baptist - Apollo Beach rview Rd., Riverview 408 Apollo Beach Blvd., Apollo Beach (813) 641-2222 hristian CenterBell Shoals Baptist - Palm River 5415 Palm River Rd.,Tampa e, Riverview (813) 621-2058 Bell Shoals Baptist - Riverview tian Church 9990 South Hwy 301, Suite 10024, Riverview ud Ave, Valrico (813) 689-4229 First Baptist Church of Brandon 216 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon h (813) 689-1204 Riverview First Baptist Church of Bloomingdale 3303 Bloomingdale Ave.,Valrico (813) 689-3847 FishHawk First Baptist Church of Gibsonton e Dr., Lithia 9912 Indiana St., Gibsonton (813) 677-1301 First Baptist Church of Ruskin urch - Main Campus 820 College Ave. W., Ruskin idge Dr., Tampa, (813) 645-6439 FishHawk Fellowship urch - SouthShore 15326 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia ge Ave., Ruskin (813) 655-7431 Grace Baptist Church 2909 John Moore Rd., Brandon ch (813) 689-7190 d., Brandon Journey Church 415 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon (813) 699-8262 Shiloh Baptist Church 01 S., Suite 114,1104 Riverview Cason St., Plant City (813) 752-8345

PENTECOSTAL CATHOLIC

Nativity Catholic Church 705 E Brandon Blvd., Brandon SE, Ruskin (813) 681-4608 St. Anne Catholic Church rch of Brandon106 11th Ave. NE, Ruskin ecrest Rd., Valrico/Brandon (813) 645-1714 St. Matthews Anglican Church 10701 Bloomingdale Avenue, Riverview PRESBYTERIAN (813) 663-0334

an Church of Brandon -PCUSA Brandon

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 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

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Volume 26 | Issue 06

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Pastor’s Corner Jomo Cousins, PhD

EMOTIONS

By Pastor Jomo Cousins, PhD

Proverbs 29:11 (AMP): 11 A [shortsighted] fool always loses his temper and displays his anger, but a wise man [uses self-control and] holds it back.

As leaders, we must understand that we set the tone for our organizations by how we act and how we respond to certain situations. People can learn a lot about our character in those moments. I remember speaking to a friend of mine about a problem employee I had. I mentioned how I lost my temper in the situation, and my friend reminded me of this Scripture. It hit me like a ton of bricks. I had been allowing my emotions to cloud my judgment.

Based on that experience, I developed a formula to help me manage challenging situations better. I call it ‘The Four P’s:’ Pause. Ponder. Pray. Proceed. Taking time to sift through my thoughts and seeking God’s counsel allows me to respond to matters in-

stead of reacting to them.

Kenny Rogers sang a song called The Gambler. My favorite part says: “You got to know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em, know when to walk away and know when to run. You never count your money when you’re sittin’ at the table. There’ll be time enough for countin’ when the dealing’s done.”

In other words, we must get to a place of self-awareness so we can make sound decisions based on facts, not feelings.

Another great model for handling emotional situations well can be found in James 1:19-20 (AMP): 19 Understand this, my beloved brothers and sisters. Let everyone be quick to hear [be a careful, thoughtful listener], slow to speak [a speaker of carefully chosen words and], slow to anger [patient, reflective, forgiving]; 20 for the [resentful, deep-seated] anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God [that standard of behavior which He requires from us].

Except from: 60 Prayers in 60 Seconds, Page 31.

Page 9

Page 10

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

June 2022

FLORIDA ORCHESTRA ANNOUNCES SEASON MASTERWORKS SERIES Staff Report

Music lovers, mark your calendars.

The Florida Orchestra (TFO) will launch its 2022-23 Hough Family Foundation Masterworks series in October with the powerful drama of Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana, conducted by internationally acclaimed Music Director Michael Francis in venues throughout Tampa Bay. Big moments in TFO’s 55th season include a mini festival of Rachmaninoff’s Second and Third Piano Concertos; a world-premiere violin concerto composed by Tampa native Michael Ippolito for TFO Concertmaster Jeffrey Multer; great classics such as Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 (Pastoral), and Mahler’s Symphony No. 4; and a once-in-a-lifetime performance of Wagner’s The Ring Without Words.

“We can’t think of a more stirring and sensational way to start the season than the extraordinary spectacle that is the iconic Carmina Burana,” said Francis, who will enter his eighth season with TFO. “There’s nothing like the sheer joy of listening together in the concert hall, and this season we’ll bring some of the most spellbinding sonic experiences ever. We’ll give new life to beloved classics, debut inspiring new works and perform a variety of composers that reflect the different cultures and influences that make up our Tampa Bay community. At the heart of it all are the brilliant Florida Orchestra musicians, whom we will feature throughout the season, as well as world-class soloists.”

The Florida Orchestra will start off the new season with a new title sponsor, the Hough Family Foundation, for its premier classical Masterworks series. This con-

The Florida Orchestra recently announced dates for the 2022-23 season.

tinues the Hough family’s philanthropic legacy and solidifies a meaningful partnership that generously supports TFO’s core mission of bringing epic masterpieces that inspire, unite and educate at the highest levels of excellence under the leadership of Maestro Francis.

TFO’S premier Raymond James Pop Series showcases a variety of Broadway,

movie and popular music. It opens with Hollywood Sings (Friday and Saturday, October 14 and 15) with movie music from Frozen, The Wizard of Oz, La La Land and more and pits the Wizarding World against The Empire in Harry Potter vs Star Wars (March 18 and 19, 2023) with music by John Williams, Patrick Doyle and more.

“Our Pop series brings fun, familiar

music that’s also the heart and soul of our favorite movies and beyond. This music transports us to a special time and place in our lives like nothing else can. Listening to it live with the power of The Florida Orchestra makes all the difference,” said TFO President and CEO Mark Cantrell.

In Jeans ‘n Classics Presents Abbey Road (February 4, 2023), TFO will perform the famed Beatles album in its entirety, featuring “Come Together,” “Here Comes the Sun” and more. It will be conducted by TFO’s new assistant conductor, Chelsea Gallo.

The Light Favorites Morning Coffee Series, led by Principal Guest Conductor Stuart Malina, includes Poetry in Music (Thursday, October 27) with lyrical works by Debussy, William Grant Still and more; Best of Ballet (Thursday, December 15), which includes Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker; Arabian Fantasy (Saturday, November 17); Spring in Paris (April 12 and 13, 2023); and Divine Inspiration (March 15 and 16, 2023). The nine-concert series at the Mahaffey Theater and the five-concert series at Ruth Eckerd Hall come with a dollop of humor and a Pre-concert Conversation, starting one hour before the performance.

For community concerts in the fall, the orchestra will perform the free Pops in the Park concert in Vinoy Park in St. Petersburg and is planning a wide variety of community partnerships for the 2022-23 season. A full schedule of TFO’s community concerts, such as Inside the Music, Sing Out Tampa Bay, full-orchestra Family Concerts and more, will be released over the summer.

To learn more, visit www.floridaorchestra.org.

CAC1820162

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Volume 26 | Issue 06

Page 11

Honoring Fathers, Father-Figures And Our Heavenly Father

By Kelly Wise Valdes

For many of us, the month of June commemorates the beginning of summer, and our vacations are underway. It’s also the month that we recognize all the fathers and father figures that have made a meaningful impact in our lives. On Sunday, June 19, the nation observes Father’s Day. The first Father’s Day took place on June 19, 1910 in Spokane, Washington through the determination of Sonora Smart Dodd, a Christian woman and the daughter of American Civil War veteran William Jackson Smart. Sonora’s mother died when she was age 16 and her father single-handedly raised her and her five siblings. Once she began petitioning the idea of an official Father’s Day, she met some opposition. A bill was introduced in Congress in 1913 to make it an official holiday, but Congress resisted. After many years, President Lyndon Johnson made a proclamation in 1966 for the third Sunday of June to be Father’s Day. The ideals of fatherhood are strong in the Bible. Our God is portrayed as a loving Father and Jesus also described God as his own Father. God created men to be the leaders in our families, homes and communities. It’s a great reminder to honor the father, father figure and our Heavenly Father.

First Time Dad: The Stuff You Real- Dad Time: Savoring the God-Given Dad Tired and Loving It: Stumbling Brave Dad: Raising Your Kids to Love and Follow God ly Need to Know Moments of Fatherhood Your Way to Spiritual Leadership

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By John Fuller

By Max Lucado

By Jerrad Lopes First Time Dad offers soon-to-be dads and new dads a head start on the stuff dads really needs to know. Co-host of the daily Focus on the Family broadcast and father of six, author John Fuller helps you avoid common fathering mistakes, keep your marriage alive, set priorities and understand the power of your words. Learn how to cultivate a lasting parent-child relationship and get excited about being a father.

Join beloved pastor and author Max Lucado on an exploration of what it means to be a father who loves God and loves his family. Through insightful Scripture, poignant quotes and candid stories from Max’s life, you’ll see fatherhood like never before. You’ll discover how everyday moments of parenthood reveal amazing truths about life, yourself and God.

Join a new generation of Christian husbands and fathers who want to be better spiritual leaders than their fathers were.

Get equipped and encouraged in your day-to-day life and become the man God is calling you to be—even when you’re ‘dad’ tired. This book will encourage dads to seek humility rather than strive for perfection and to understand the bigger picture of God’s purpose for you in your family.

Become a ‘dad who leads’ and leave a godly legacy for your children, grandchildren and later generations. This book shares time-tested wisdom on the importance of prioritizing your marriage relationship, nurturing faith and obedience, providing loving, effective discipline, avoiding common parenting mistakes, recognizing the power and blessing entrusted to fathers and more.

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Page 12

June 2022

SUMMER FUN AND FAITH WITH LOCAL VACATION BIBLE SCHOOLS Compiled By Kate Quesada

Immanuel Lutheran Church

With summer fast approaching, it is time to break out your calendars and find the best vacation bible school (VBS) for your family.

Bay Life Church

Located in Brandon, Bay Life Church will host Kidapalooza 2022 in June.

There is no cost and it will be held in person and online. The dates are Wednesday to Friday, June 1-3 from 9:30-11:30 a.m., for those entering kindergarten and first grade and Monday to Friday, June 6-10 from 6:30-8:30 p.m., for those entering second through fifth grade. For more information, visit www.baylife.org.

New Hope United Methodist

New Hope United Methodist Church in Brandon is hosting a Making Waves-themed VBS from Monday to Friday, June 13-17 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon. The cost is $45 and children from 3 years old to sixth grade are invited to attend. Visit www.findnewhope. com for more information.

Bethany Baptist Church

Bethany Baptist Church in Plant City will host a Monumental Vacation Bible School from Sunday to Friday, June 5-10 from 6-9 p.m. It is open to students in first through fifth grade, and dinner is provided. For more information, visit www.ibelongatbethany. org.

Bell Shoals Church

Bell Shoals Church campuses in Apollo Beach, Brandon and Riverview will host a Spark Studios-themed VBS from Monday to Friday, June 6-10 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon.

Students must have completed kindergarten to fifth grade. To learn more, visit www. bellshoals.com.

Westminster Presbyterian Church Westminster Presbyterian Church in Brandon will host VBS from Monday to Friday, June 6-10. Visit www.wpcbrandon.org to learn more.

FishHawk Fellowship Church

FishHawk Fellowship Church in Lithia will host an Extreme Sports Movies VBS from Monday to Thursday, July 25-28 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon. The cost $30 is a child. Learn more at www.fishhawkfc.org.

Church On The Rock Of Plant City

From Monday to Friday, June 6-10 from 6-9 p.m., Church on the Rock of Plant City will host a VBS. Learn more at www.rockofpc.com.

St. Andrew’s United Methodist

St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church in Brandon will host a VBS from Monday to Friday, July 18-22. Learn more at www.saumc.net.

St. Stephen Catholic Church

St. Stephen Catholic Church in Riverview will host a VBS from Monday to Friday, June 13-17. Visit www.ststephencatholic.org to learn more.

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church

From Monday to Friday, June 20-24, Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church in Valrico will host a VBS. Learn more at www. hiepiscopal.org.

St. Anne Catholic Church

St. Anne Catholic Church will offer a VBS from June 6-10 at a cost of $35 per child. Registration is available at www. saintanneruskin.org.

Mt. Zion AME Church in Riverview

Hosted at Mt. Zion AME Church in Riverview, the Good Trouble Summer Camp will take place from Monday, June 6 to Friday, July 22 weekly. The cost is $70 a week and hours at 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. The camp will include Spanish, sports, art, drama, STEM, swimming, reading, character development, bully prevention, field trips and more. Call 813-337-7457 Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. for more information.

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Immanuel Lutheran Church & School is offering a free Vacation Bible School this summer. Children ages 3 (potty-trained) through fifth grade are welcome to attend. Students will share Bible stories, sing songs, have snacks, play games and make crafts. It will take place Monday, July 11 through Friday, July 15 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon each day. The church is located at 2913 John Moore Rd. in Brandon. For more information, call the church office at 813689-1787 or visit www.godsoloved.org.

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Volume 26 | Issue 06

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Page 13

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Page 14

June 2022

TAMPA KIDS CAMP CREATES HOPE FOR AREA FOSTER CHILDREN

By Sharon Still

Executive Direccamp needs junior tor Scott Mulholcounselors, ages len founded Tampa 16-17, to help with Kids Camp in 2016 drama and puppets. after several years You can apply to be of him and his wife, a camp counselor Kris, serving as fosat tampakidscamp. ter parents. With org/counselor-apthe tagline “Fosplication. tering Hope for the “The most amazFuture,” the couple, ing thing about who could no lon- Tampa Kids Camp’s Royal Family Kids Camp is serving at camp is ger foster children the difference you looking for volunteer counselors to help transdue to some health form the lives of foster children. No experience is can make in a fosneeded. issues, decided to ter kid’s life,” said create a one-week camp to keep Mulhollen. “Even though we are themselves involved only with them a week, the impact while creating a way affects them for life.” to focus on the foster “It is incredible to see many of children’s needs and these kids arrive the first day of provide a safe and nurcamp, and they are totally shut turing environment. down, shy and Through what they not talking to may call divine intervention, anyone,” deshortly after, a friend from church inscribed Multroduced them to Royal Family Kids hollen. “In just Camp, a weeklong overnight camp for a day or two, foster kids ages 6-12. every camper This summer, Royal Kids Camp, a breaks out of life-changing week of camp for children their shell and becomes the kid that they who have experienced abuse, neglect deserve to be.” and abandonment, will be held from In addition to the summer Royal Kids Monday, July 18 through Friday, July 22. Camp, Tampa Kids Camp also offers Teen “What makes our camp so unique is Reach Adventure Camp (TRAC), one for that we have a ratio of one adult to every boys and a separate one for girls, both camper.” commented Mulhollen. “This al- for ages 12-15. The next three-day weeklows us to really treat each camper like end TRAC camps will be held during royalty and give them a life-changing spring break 2023. week of camp.”

Foster families can register with He added that with about 70 camp- Tampa Kids Camp directly by emailing ers attending the camp, the organiza- camp@tampakidscamp.org. For further tion is searching for 70 volunteer camp information, visit www.tampakidscamp. counselors over age 18. Additionally, the org or call 813-720-7470.

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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Volume 26 | Issue 06

Page 15

CONGRATULATIONS TO AREA HIGH SCHOOL

VALEDICTORIANS & SALUTATORIANS

Compiled by Taylor Wells

Valedictorian William Newbold Foundation Christian GPA of 5.46 Plans to attend UCF

Salutatorian Madison O’Leary Foundation Christian GPA of 5.30 Plans to attend Liberty University

Valedictorian Kristine Nguyen Grace Christian GPA of 4.457 Plans to attend USF

Salutatorian William Denning Grace Christian GPA of 4.382 Plans to attend Florida Polytechnic University

Valedictorian Emelia Huebner Seffner Christian GPA of 4.45 Plans to attend Florida State University

Salutatorian Kaya Hall Seffner Christian GPA of 4.42 Plans to attend the University of Florida

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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

June 2022

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE FCA YEARBOOK STAFF

FOUNDATION CHRISTIAN ACADEMY VOLLEYBALL TEAM WINS SSAC CHAMPIONSHIP The Foundation so much, and Christian Academy that’s why I (FCA) volleyball was able to team won the Sunbe the best shine State Athplayer I could letic Conference be this year.”

(SSAC) champiFCA will onship this past look to build season, defeating off of last Pineapple Cove season’s sucClassical Acadecess and try my after having to repeat a shortened sea- The Foundation Christian Academy volleyball team won Foundation Christian Academy won the first Sunshine State as SSAC son in 2020 due champs. The the Sunshine State Athletic Conference championship Athletic Conference volleyball championship in its history. to COVID-19. The team will do this past season, defeating Pineapple Cove Classical Academy.

Lady Panthers and three as the the upperclassmen did whatever it The Lady Panthers joined the Sunshine State w o r k o u t s joined the SSAC this season and have head coach, was excited for her players af- took to make the underclassmen and conAthletic Conference this season and have reached the pinnacle in a short time. ter match point. She said that her seniors comfortable, even if they had to ditioning reached the pinnacle in a short time.

Junior outside/middle Faith Sullivan will were crying tears of joy because they were switch positions. She said that the during the always remember the end of the game in overwhelmed with happiness. team’s blocking skills markedly improved summer and will start practicing again in which FCA won its first SSAC volleyball “I was very impressed because, with our and were their major strength.

July with the season staring in early Auchampionship in its history. previous year, we had to cut the season The roster included Kylie Monahan, gust. Smith will lose four seniors, but she “The last set of the game I was think- short because of COVID-related stuff, and Makayla Harris, Addi Horton, Catherine expects to have at least half of her players ing, ‘We could win this,’ and everyone was so I was really proud to see how far that Abney, Faith Sullivan, Kai Rodriguez, Ella back for next year. talking, especially Makayla (Harris), saying had come after not having had a season the Kahikina, Ananda Phillip, Rebecca Rodiguez, “I love the teamwork and how no matter that ‘After this, we are going to Beef ’O’ year before,” said Smith. “There was a lot Evie Repp, Sophia Caruso, Marissa Brank- what kind of day everyone would have, they Brady’s,’ and that’s what we were chanting of shouting, a lot of excitement— parents ley, Klara Sheild and Lyla Regans. would bring a happy attitude to play and at the end. During the game, all the girls were jumping off the bleachers, very excit“The team this year was so fun,” said Sul- cheer all the girls on,” said Sullivan. “For the were encouraging, and everyone wanted to ed too.” livan. “It was only my first year playing vol- team, something to work on is just rememwin, but we also wanted to have fun, and Smith was proud that her older players leyball for our school team. I will definitely bering to have fun and remember it’s just that’s what we did.” stepped up into leadership roles this sea- keep playing. Coach Smith is so encourag- a game. Otherwise, everybody is so sweet Caitlin Smith, who has been with FCA son and took the younger girls under their ing, and if you don’t get something, she and all of us are so close, we are like a sisfor five years, two as an assistant coach wings. With a lot of new faces on the roster, will tell you how to fix it. That helped me terhood.”

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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Volume 26 | Issue 06

Page 17

FAITH & FOOTPRINTS

By Kelly Wise Valdes

St. James Episcopal Church - Grosse Ile Township, Michigan St. James Episcopal Church in Grosse Ile Township, Michigan was the dream of Lisette Denison Forth, a former slave who became the first black woman to own land in Michigan. She was born in 1786, 10 years after America declared its independence. She was born into slavery near Detroit.

Forth’s parents, Peter and Hannah Denison, were freed slaves and worked for a Detroit lawyer. Peter and Hannah sued for their children’s freedom under the Northwest Ordinance, but the court rejected their case. In a different case, the court ruled that Michigan had no duty to retrieve escaped slaves from Canada and return them, so Forth crossed the Detroit River for freedom.

She returned in 1815 and found work as a domestic servant, saving her earnings and investing in real estate. She saved enough money that 10 years later she was able to buy four lots in Grosse Ile. Forth’s dream was to build a church on the lots. This request was spelled out in a will in January 1860, more than a year before the start of the American Civil War. Because she couldn’t read, the contract had to be read aloud to her.

When Forth died, she willed a portion of her estate to her family, and in addition, $3,000 dollars was to be used to construct a church. Her sons hired architect Gordon W. Lloyd to design the structure. Her oldest son also built an altar cross, kneeling bench and reading stand for the minister. Construction began in 1867 and was completed in 1868.

The charming Carpenter Gothic church is graced by a large Tiffany glass window and a pair of carved, red, wooden doors dedicated to her. A larger church was constructed on the site in 1958, and the 1867 structure serves as a chapel for the new church.

In the 154 years since its construction, the church has undergone several repairs and had multiple additions, but the main structure remains substantially original and in excellent condition. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated a Michigan State Historic Site in 1971.

The church is part of an active Christian community, and members worship every Sunday. For more information, visit www.saintjamesgi.net.

Live Like You Mean It ...

So Many Colors In The Rainbow

By Derek Maul

“‘So many colors in the morning sun dictated by his boundless and overartists like Van Gogh, Turner, Monet “… focus your thoughts on these “‘So many colors in the flower and I see whelming creativity. Van Gogh not and Cézanne—so Rebekah and I things: all that is true, all that is holy, every one.’” all that is just, all that is pure, all that spent a recent afternoon absorbed in only experienced the world differentpost-impressionism at the Van Gogh ly, but he is also challenging us to do Van Gogh could also see colors most is lovely ...” – Philippians 4:8. of us miss; sometimes, we need the the same.

Immersive Experience.

I often write about art, and it will eyes and the souls of artists to help Van Gogh himself would have enjoyed The previous evening, Rebekah and doubtless come up again. Rebekah us to see.

I watched a documentary on singit. The exhibition pulled us into the and I are drawn not just to the beauIn a sense, I experience Jesus as an er-songwriter Harry Chapin. One ty of it but the story too. Art is a way paintings with projections, including artist, one who teaches me to see with of Chapin’s best moments comes of interpreting life, of articulating our movement, shifts in color and light new eyes, who reminds me status quo through his song “Flowers are Red,” and blending one painting into the relationship to things both temporal where a teacher objects to creative is not sacrosanct, who challenges me to next. It was an invitation into the and eternal. Art is in many ways a not only look but to see, to absorb the expression. imagination and creativity of the form of prayer. beauty and the lessons of creation and “But the little boy said, artist.

I am particularly drawn to work that to expand my spirit. “‘There are so many colors in the rainVan Gogh could see with unusual tells a more complex story than the Peace, beauty, light and love. – DEREK bow clarity, and he saw colors in ways photo-accurate work of the realists—

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Page 18

June 2022

HOT OFF THE CHRISTIAN NEWS WIRE

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Historic Call For Americans To Josh McDowell, Preston Perry, Shane most frequently asked questions.

Come Together This June At To- Pruitt, Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, Miel San Tickets can be purchased online and Marcos, Evan Craft, Israel Houghton & at participating theater box offices. It is gether ’22

Premier Productions Announces Mega Summer Festival Tour

Premier Productions announced the All This Future Summer Festival Tour with 17 artists slated to perform on various dates throughout the tour. Many Christian artists are teaming up with Hillsong UNITED in different cities across the country, playing in a mix of amphitheaters and arenas. Select dates will also feature TobyMac, Lauren Daigle and Johnnyswim. This once-in-a-lifetime tour is something fans certainly won’t want to miss as the megastar lineup of artists will lead audiences in a time of praise, a time of song and a time of pure fun.

The 14-city summer tour takes place across the country with two stops in Florida, including Jacksonville on Friday, July 29 and Orange Beach on Saturday, July 30. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.allthisfuturetour.com.

Evangelist and Pulse founder Nick Hall is inviting people across the country to gather again at the Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas for TOGETHER ’22, a free event, on Sunday to Monday, June 24-25.

Inspired by Explo ’72, hosted by Billy Graham and also at the Cotton Bowl, TOGETHER ’22 will be the largest evangelistic training event in history.

Since Hall first launched his ministry, God has continued to move–filling stadiums in the United States and massive squares abroad. This month, TOGETHER ’22 aims to activate a generation to share Jesus and be sent home with the courage, community and tools to share the Good News. TOGETHER ’22 will feature some of the best artists and speakers in the world.

Confirmed speakers and artists include David Platt, Jeremy Camp, Chris Tomlin, Dr. Tony Evans, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Dick Eastman, Paul Eshleman, Ebony Small, Jonathan Evans,

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Kirk Cameron Launches New Documentary The Homeschool Awakening

CAMFAM Studios and Fathom Events announce the debut of a new documentary, Kirk Cameron Presents: The Homeschool Awakening, coming to theaters this June for two nights only on Monday, June 13 and Tuesday, June 14 at 7 p.m. The documentary highlights the exciting journey of homeschooling and the necessity of parents regaining control of their children’s education.

Families across the nation are experiencing the homeschool awakening, taking advantage of the freedom and opportunities to learn with the world as their classroom Cameron dives into the adventures of dynamic American families on a mission to put fun and faith back into learning. The documentary follows the homeschooling journeys of different families and explores the ins, outs and honest answers to homeschooling’s

Pentatonix Singer Launches Bible-Based Podcast

The Pentatonix singer known worldwide for his beatboxing skills has launched a faith-based podcast, saying he wants to help listeners become Daniel-like leaders for God in their sphere of influence. Kevin Olusola, the beatboxer for the three-time Grammy Award-winning group, launched the podcast Imagine Faith Talk in April with his co-host and friend, Donovan Dee Donnell, an author, life coach and entrepreneur. In each episode, Olusola and Donnell dive into the Bible for faith-based conversations about what they call “faith-based success.”

The podcast is the product of a prepandemic Bible study that Olusola launched in Los Angeles. That’s where he met Donnell. Olusola compared the Christian community to an orchestra with many different parts. Olusola’s Christian faith, he said, has helped him stay grounded during the group’s success. He grew up in a Christian home in Owensboro, Kentucky.

For more information on Olusola’s podcast, visit www.podcasts.apple.com and search for Imagine Faith Talk.

FINANCIAL FOCUS

WHAT INVESTORS CAN – AND CAN’T – CONTROL As an investor, you can easily feel frustrated to see short-term drops in your investment statements. But while you cannot control the market, you may find it helpful to review the factors you can control.

Many forces affect the financial markets, including geopolitical events, corporate profits and interest rate movements – forces beyond the control of most individual investors.

In any case, it’s important to focus on the things you can control, such as these: • Your ability to define your goals – One area in which you have total control is your ability to define your goals. Like most people, you probably have shortterm goals – such as saving for a new car or a dream vacation – and long-term ones, such as a comfortable retirement. Once you identify your goals and estimate how much they will cost, you can create an investment strategy to help achieve them. Over time, some of your personal circumstances will likely change, so you’ll want to review your time horizon and risk tolerance on a regular basis, adjusting your strategy when appropriate. And the same is true for your goals – they may evolve over time, requiring new responses from you in how you invest.

• Your response to market downturns – When the market drops and the value of your investments declines, you might be tempted to take immediate action in an effort to stop the losses. This is understandable – after all, your investment results can have a big impact on your future. However, acting hastily could work against you – for example, you could sell investments that still have solid fundamentals and are still appropriate for your needs. If you can avoid decisions based on short-term events, you may help yourself in the long run.

• Your commitment to investing – The financial markets are almost always in flux, and their movements are hard to predict. If you can continue investing in all markets – good, bad or sideways – you will likely make much better progress toward your goals than if you periodically were to take a “time out.”

Many people head to the investment sidelines when the market tumbles, only to miss out on the beginnings of the next rally. And by steadily investing, you will increase the number of shares you own in your investments – and the larger your ownership stake, the greater your opportunities for building wealth.

• Your portfolio’s level of diversification – While diversification itself can’t guarantee profits or protect against all losses, it can help greatly reduce the impact of market volatility on your portfolio. Just how you diversify your investments depends on several factors, but the general principle of maintaining a diversified portfolio should govern your approach to investing. It’s a good idea to periodically review your portfolio to ensure it’s still properly diversified.

The world will always be filled with unpredictable, uncontrollable events, and many of them will affect the financial markets to one degree or another. But within your own investment world, you always have a great deal of control – and with it, you have the power to keep moving toward all your important financial objectives.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Edward Jones, Member SIPC

edwardjones.com/adam-benabram

Volume 26 | Issue 06

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

PET THERAPISTS WELCOME AT ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL-SOUTH

By Kate Quesada

forward to coming to the hospital every week. “He is a totally different dog when he puts on his vest.

He knows he is going to work.”

Romeo’s duties include greeting paAnya Shapiro, a 5-year-old from Riverview, got a pet therapy visit from Romeo, a 6-year- tients and staff old, long-haired German shepherd, and his handler, Bill Bergsma, also from Riverview. at the front Romeo’s been a pet therapy dog at St. Joseph’s Hospital-South for three years. desk and visiting patients in St. Joseph’s Hosrooms who have pital-South has a requested pet very important voltherapy. unteer, and he is “We often end looking for some up in the pedifriends to join him. atric wing beRomeo, a 6-yearcause so many old, long-haired of the kids love German shepherd, him,” said Bergvolunteers with his sma. “If they are owner, Bill Bergsscared, they usuma, every week at ally stop crying the hospital, bringas soon as they ing joy and comfort see him and can to patients and staff pet him during members alike, and treatments.” according to the In order to hospital’s volunteer participate in resource managthe program, er, Kim Wallace, there are opportunities for more canine dogs must have passed one of the four certification programs approved by philanthropists.

According to Wallace, the program BayCare. They must also be up to date began at the hospital in 2015, and there on all shots and their owners have to are currently four dogs who regularly provide the necessary paperwork every year. participate.

“The experience is so rewarding for Bergsma, who moved to Riverview from Michigan three years ago, felt both of us,” said Bergsma.

To learn more about the program Romeo would be a good pet therapist because of his personality and calm de- and the requirements for volunteering, email Wallace at kim.wallace@baycare. meanor.

“I knew I needed to find him a job,” com.

For more information on St. Joseph’s he explained, adding that Romeo, who weighs more than 100 pounds, looks Hospital South, visit www.baycare.org.

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Page 19

NEW FLORIDA TRADE ACADEMY JOINS THE COMMUNITY

By Libby Hopkins

ees. He knew that if FTA was going to be successful, he needed to recruit some major players in the community. Chris tapped Chuck Burgess, a nonprofit CEO with many local contacts, and Jeffrey Stone, a successful businessman and entrepreneur, as co-founders.

Together, they will be responsible Florida Trade Academy has begun registration for its fall semester. for the daily operBernadette and Chris Pello are Riv- ations of Florida Trade Academy. “What erview residents and the founders of makes FTA different is first and foreLivingstone Academy. Since Livingstone most, we Academy has are locally been a huge owned and success for famo p e ra t e d , ” ilies with special Chris said. needs children, “We are a the Pellos wantnonprofit, ed to branch out and we have and offer opassembled tions to young adults who may not pick a team with over 100 combined years college as a career path. in education, nonprofit and business “We wanted to create Florida Trade experience. Due to our sponsor, AssociAcademy (FTA) because we recognized ated Builders and Contractors, we have the tremendous need in our community access to over 450 member companies for a career path for young adults, espe- that will be looking to employ our stucially for those that may not want to at- dents. We have a tremendous amount of tend college or a university,” Bernadette employment opportunities for our stusaid. “Because we have been involved in dents.” education for 30 years, it was a natural Classes begin in September. progression for us to launch FTA.” “Our hopes for FTA are that we can Chris, an educator, community leader educate, train and place students in and school operations specialist, creat- high-paying trade careers with little to ed FTA. For more than 35 years, he has no student debt,” said Chris. “We also been involved in education as a high plan to expand beyond the Tampa Bay school coach, athletic director, teacher region and hope to provide these opand principal. Over the last 20 years, tions to students throughout the state Chris has also successfully founded and of Florida.” operated four private schools in HillsTo learn more, visit www.floridaborough County, now serving over 400 tradeacademy.org. students in grades K-12 with 85 employ-

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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Page 20

PROJECT SMILE CONNECTS KIWANIAN SERVICE TO GIBSONTON COMMUNITY

ELUSIVE CONTENTMENT

By Bob Zoellner

By Linda Chion

The Project Smile inipantry by Publix, which tiative founded and emdonated shelves and braced by the Kiwanis refrigeration.

Club of Greater BranInside the food pandon and the Mosaic try on April 14, KiwaCompany in Riverview nian Gordon Sanford almost 10 years ago filled Project Smile continues to this day, bags with cereal, oatgrowing from an outmeal, peanut butter, reach serving roughly jelly, vegetable cans, 125 kids a week to a rice, pasta and chili. community drive meetOutside, Kiwanians ing the needs of some Mike and Eddie Jenkins 1,000 children and distributed food boxadults monthly. es containing canned Photo courtesy of Linda Chion.

That’s the word from Brandon Kiwanians, from left to right, goods, ham, oranges Kiwanian and Mosa- Eddie Jenkins, Gordon Sanford and Mike and bread. Bus riders ic retiree Mike Daigle, receive the bags and Daigle at the Gibsonton Elementary who credits the foundfamilies that drive School food pantry on April 14. ing of Project through ThursSmile at Gibsonton days between 2 Elementary School and 4 p.m. receive to an article his the boxes. wife, Janet DaiAccording to gle, read in Parade Mike, the outmagazine about a reach costs roughmother and child ly $25,000 a year, in California who distributed weekend plus another $6,000 for the bags. “Mosafood backpacks to children at an inner-city ic donates bags and gives us a grant that school to ensure they had enough to eat covers 80 to 90 percent of the cost of the when school food programs were not avail- food,” Mike said. “We sign an annual conable. Noting Mosaic’s mission to “help the tract with Feeding Tampa Bay and we have world grow the food it needs,” Janet asked enough money in reserves to cover the her husband, “Shouldn’t your company do costs at least a year in advance if necessomething like this?” sary.”

Now, with a Mosaic grant, Feeding Tam“This is what Kiwanis is all about,” Sanpa Bay contract, Gibsonton Elementary ford said, “helping children in the commuSchool’s support and Kiwanis club volun- nity.” teers and fundraising as needed, perishable The Brandon Kiwanis Club meets alterand nonperishable food items are distrib- nating Thursdays at The Bridges in Riveruted weekly on Thursdays. The food items view at 8 a.m. and at La Septima Café in are packed and distributed from a vacant Brandon at 5:30 p.m. Visit www.brandonkiclassroom refurbished into an on-site food wanis.org for more information.

Saint Anne Catholic Church

~Masses~ Vigil Saturday 4:30 p.m.

Sunday 8 a.m., 10 a.m., & 5 p.m. (12:30 p.m. Spanish) Monday-Friday 8 a.m. ~Masses~ Wednesday & Jueves 7 p.m. ~Masses~ Vigil Saturday 4:30 p.m. ~Mass Schedule~ Vigil Saturday 4:30 p.m.

Recorded Masses on &the St.(12:30 Anne website Sundaycan be8viewed a.m., 10 a.m., 5 p.m. p.m.

Spanish) Saturday...........................................................Vigil............4:30 p.m.

Sunday 8 a.m., 10 a.m., & 5 p.m. (12:30 p.m. Spanish) Monday-Friday 8 a.m.

Sunday........................

8 a.m., 10 a.m. & 5 p.m.

(12 p.m.

Spanish) (SaintAnneRuskin.org) and Facebook page. 78p.m.

Monday-Friday a.m.

Wednesday & Jueves Monday - Friday......................................................................8 a.m.

Wednesday & Jueves 7 p.m.

Reconciliation Tue. at 8:30am, Thurs. at 6pm, Sat. at 3:15pm Wednesday & Jueves...........................................................7 p.m.

Saint Saint Anne Anne Catholic Catholic Church Church

andbe Byviewed Appointment.

Recorded Masses can on the St. Recorded Masses cancan bebe viewed onSt. the St.Anne Annewebsite website Recorded Masses viewed on Anne website For more information, please check the St.page.

Anne website.

(SaintAnneRuskin.org) and Facebook page.

(SaintAnneRuskin.org) and Facebook (SaintAnneRuskin.org) and Facebook page.

Reconciliation Thurs. at 2021-2022 6Thurs. p.m., Sat. atFormation 3:15 p.m.

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Reconciliation Tue. atopen 8:30am, Thurs. atSt. 6pm, Sat. at3:15pm 3:15pm For more information, please the Anne website.

Please call theBy office forcheck more information. and Appointment. and By Appointment.

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

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

VBS June 6 thru 10 U.S. Hwy. 41 ••106 11th Ave • Ruskin Registration is now for thefor2021-2022 Faith Formation year.

SaintAnneRuskin.org •information.

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

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Let’s be honest, most of life deals with disappointment. Things don’t turn out like we had hoped. People aren’t always what they seem. Successes aren’t as satisfying as anticipated.

Yet we keep pressing on. We don’t give up. We learn to deal with the disappointments as they come. We still plan, prepare, struggle and persevere, in spite of the passing nature of accomplishment.

It’s all about our motivation, the ‘why’ of what we do.

The world gets caught up in appearances. Even Samuel of the Old Testament was prone to this, captured by what he saw when he was sent to anoint a king, eventually being led to David. Before that though, Samuel was taken in by what could be seen.

“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart,’” (I Samuel 16:7, NIV).

When our motivation is right, the pressure is off. We don’t have to keep striving for the next big thing, the ‘it’ moment, to feel validated. We can rest and even han-

dle the disappointments that come our way because our mindset is different, focused on what truly matters.

Fame and money seem to be our main pursuits these days. We want recognition, the freedom to live how we want and the accumulation of stuff above all else.

Check out the selfie culture and the explosion of narcissism. Very few want to have a quiet life, not content to toil in anonymity and experience the joy of a life well-lived and shared with loved ones.

Now it’s about recognition. Our social media culture has made us void of the real relationships that we crave, making people desperate to find connections, belonging and contentment. We’re afraid of being forgotten. Of feeling like we don’t matter. Of getting lost in the shuffle. Of not being valued.

The believer has a different mindset, however.

“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.” (Galatians 1:10, NIV).

Nothing—accomplishments, stuff, accolades—goes with us when we die.

So, keep persevering, keep loving, work through the disappointments as they come and keep serving others.

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind, and love your neighbor as yourself.”

Godliness with contentment is great gain. The rest will take care of itself.

Volume 26 | Issue 06

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Page 21

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

Page 22

AIRLIFE/BAYFLIGHT VISITS HCC PARAMEDIC STUDENTS

SIXTH ANNUAL HALLE GRACE TOY DRIVE WILL DONATE TOYS TO LOCAL HOSPITALS

By Lily Belcher

out,” said Jillian. “It would just brighten her day no matter what her treatments were or if she was going to surgery.”

Last year, the toy drive collected over 2,100 toys and donated to five locations, and the foundation hopes to surpass that number this year. The drive donated 300 toys in its inaugural year in 2016 and has grown exponentially since. The Halle Grace Foundation has worked with other schools and organizations to offer service hours to student volunteers that help col-

By Kate Quesada

A group of stuWith the help of dents at HillsborHillsborough Counough Community ty Fire Rescue, the College’s (HCC) flight team from SouthShore camAirLife/BayFlight pus were able to landed their airsee up-close what craft adjacent to happens in a medthe HCC Southical emergency last Shore campus. month when the In addition, school worked in the fire company conjunction with demonstrated landHillsborough Coun- Students at HCC’s SouthShore campus were visited ing zone safety and ty and brought an by an AirLife/BayFlight aircraft last month as part the flight team exof the EMS program.

AirLife/BayFlight plained their role in aircraft to the field patient care. adjacent to the “The demonschool’s science stration concluded building. with a tour of the According to aircraft and a quesprofessor Lawtion/answer perirence Linder from od,” said Linder. the EMS Programs Also included Faculty, the Nationin the event was al EMS Education a team of rescuStandards were reers from Manatee vised in 2021 and County Search & now require that schools work Rescue, which brought their with state and local agencies rescue unit and explained how to provide the students with they would coordinate with the knowledge to work safely the flight team during a search around a landing zone during and rescue operation. an air medical operation.

“It is our hope that the res“This includes the proper cue teams will be a part of our treatment of the patient and the inter- ongoing commitment to providing our action with the air medical personal who students with an excellent clinical and will then transport the patient to the educational experience,” said Linder. trauma center,” he explained. “What betHillsborough Community College’s ter way to learn than to land an aircraft SouthShore campus is located at 551 and have the students explore the inter- 24th St. NE in Ruskin and can be reached working of safety and advanced patient at 813-253-7000. For more information, care?” visit www.hccfl.edu.

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Halle Grace Heilman’s sister, Neeley, bringing toys from the toy drive to young children in the hospital.

The Halle Grace Foundation is hosting its sixth annual Halle Grace Foundation Toy Drive until May 30 to celebrate Halle Grace Heilman’s 22nd birthday. Halle passed away in July of 2015 after suffering from a rare chromosome deletion, but, following her death, her family established a foundation in her name to keep her memory alive and celebrate her life.

“It makes her birthday something we still celebrate every year. We know that other kids are getting presents on her birthday, so that makes us happy,” said Jillian Heilman, mother of Halle and founder of the nonprofit organization.

The toy drive is its way of giving back to their community and supporting young children like Halle who are in the hospital.

The toys suited for patients up to 18 years old will be donated on Halle’s birthday on Thursday, June 2 to Tampa General Hospital, St. Joseph’s Hospital and other hospitals in the area.

“One of the things that brought her a ton of joy, especially when she was a little kid, was when the toy cart came by, and it would come by every day of the week, and there would be a new toy she could pick

Each year, toys are donated to local hospitals supporting pediatric patients.

lect toys and advertise the collection.

Halle battled for 15 years against the illness, taking joy in proving the doctors who limited her wrong. She learned to dance, developed a love for fine cuisine despite being on a feeding tube for years and even ran a 5K at 7 years old.

To donate, drop toys off at 2928 Chelsea Woods Dr. in Valrico, Melissa Snively’s State Farm office in Lithia, the Florida Hawks FC soccer fields in the FishHawk Sports Complex or Bloomingdale High School.

To donate on Venmo or for information, contact jillianheilman@gmail.com. For information on Halle’s story, visit thehallegracefoundation.org.

Volume 26 | Issue 06

ChristianVoiceMonthly.com

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June 2022