SEE OUR
LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Vol. 26 | Iss. 2 | Feb. 2022
INSIDE ...
MANNA ON WHEELS ROLLING INTO 2022 WITH RENEWED HOPE & CONTINUED PROGRAMS
17
By Kelly Wise Valdes
17
11
15
Columns: Grace Notes: Hooked On Books: Faith & Footprints: News From The Wire:
04 11 17 18
The past few years 20 ministries. These have been very chalare remarkable stalenging for many peotistics despite the ple in the community. fact that MOW was Between illnesses, the unable to host its aneconomy and other of nual food drives. life’s many roadblocks, “Because of many people find themCOVID-19 we were selves in need for the not able to have our first time. Among those annual food drives or affected are ministries outreaches last year,” and nonprofits. The exsaid Buddy. “So, this act people that are tryyear, our prayer is to ing to help the people in feed in smaller groups need, often find themof people by feeding selves in need as well. those that are hungry Local, longtime feeding and as always share outreach ministry Manthe gospel of Jesus na on Wheels (MOW) Buddy and Jane Bass started Manna on Wheels (MOW) in 2006 in order to feed the hungry Christ.” and spread the word of God’s love. MOW is actively seeking businesses willing to host a food is no exception. In MOW is looking for drive as well as volunteers to assist with its feeding ministry. 2006, Buddy Bass local businesses or and his wife, Jane, started Manna than 10 lbs., which is sometimes dif- organizations that would be willing on Wheels, a mobile kitchen ministry ficult while still running MOW. Jane, to organize a food drive to keep the that provides a hot meal to families, along with the board of directors and shelves of MOW stocked. children and people in need in Dover a few volunteers, have kept MOW “We give out food all year to those running smoothly during this time. and the surrounding areas. in need not just at Thanksgiving and “We’ve picked up two more minis- Christmas,” said Buddy. “Any gift “We were not able to have our antries we help weekly: Bread of Ref- would be greatly appreciated. We are nual outreaches and also lost most of our volunteers,” said Buddy. “We uge, which feeds the homeless in a 501(c)(3) ministry, and all donahad totally renovated our kitchen on Brandon twice daily and provides tions are tax deductible.” wheels and were gearing up to start food boxes daily to those in need and, If you are interested in becoming back feeding the homeless and those most importantly, shares the gospel a monthly supporter of Manna on in need like we did when we first of Jesus Christ,” said Bass. “The sec- Wheels, interested in helping orgaond ministry is Victor Newman Min- nize a food drive or if you are a stustarted Manna back in 2006.” Unfortunately, Buddy suffered a istries, who also feeds, provide needs, dent in need of volunteer or communiback injury in October 2021, which educates and shares the gospel.” ty service hours, MOW is an available In 2021, MOW received 125,598 resource. For more information, visit required extensive surgery. He spent 12 days in the hospital and continues lbs. of perishable and nonperishable www.mannaonwheels.org or reach with physical therapy. Because of food and distributed 97,437 lbs. of Buddy Bass at 767-5708 or jbass@ this, he cannot lift anything heavier perishable and nonperishable food to mannaonwheels.org.
GRANT WRITERS NEEDED FOR NEW TRUCK FOR OUR LADY’S PANTRY Staff Report
According to Feeding Tampa Bay, many of our neighbors are not just food insecure, they are nutrition insecure, meaning that the availability and affordability of foods that promote well-being and prevent or treat disease are not accessible to them. Without access, their long-term health hangs in the balance. Our Lady’s Pantry provides fresh fruits and vegetables and other nutrient-rich foods to our clients every Saturday morning between 7:30 and 10:30 a.m. Pantry volunteers are driving almost every day of the week picking up food from all over the county. Food is purchased from Feeding Tampa Bay and is donated by ALDI, Big Lots, Costco, Panera, Publix, Sam’s Club, Save A Lot, Winn-Dixie and others. “We are wearing our two trucks out,” said Director Tom Bullaro. “Our oldest truck is a 2006 model with more than 260,000 miles and is expensive to maintain.” “We need a new refrigerated truck. Both the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Feeding Tampa Bay require that food be transported in a
Our Lady’s Pantry is in need of a new truck.
refrigerated truck, which is why a new truck is so expensive. We are looking at about $99,000,” he added. According to Bullaro, the pantry already has $30,000 thanks to the generosity of the com-
munity and a number of clubs and philanthropic organizations—so roughly $70,000 to go. Bullaro asks for a few folks to come forward and help write grants for the balance of these monies. He will meet with you to share all the information you need to write these grants, so no worries, you won’t be alone. Applications must be submitted electronically, however, so you do need to be comfortable working on a computer. “If you have any interest in writing grants for us and wish to learn more, please email me at tom@ourladyspantry.com,” said Bullaro. “Please include your email address and phone number in your message. We shall schedule a meeting later this month to answer your questions and give you all the information you need. Thanks so much for considering.” Our Lady’s Pantry is located just south of Sun City Center Blvd. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Migrant Mission, located at 16650 S. U.S. Hwy. 301 in Wimauma. To learn more about Our Lady’s Pantry, please visit www.ourladyspantry.com.
Page 2
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Volume 26 | Issue 02
APOLLO BEACH AIR CONDITIONING COMPANY MAX COOL AC OFFERS FULL INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE By Lily Belcher Max Cool calls for Air Conthe peace ditioning of mind is a famiof its cusly-owned tomers. business run “We ofout of its fer outnew office standing in Apollo service Beach, lofrom the cated off beginning Paseo Al of your Mar Blvd. service As a HVAC call to its c o m p a ny, compleMax Cool Air Conditioning offers installation and it offers tion,” acmaintenance of a variety of air conditioning products. air condicording tioning/furnace installations, tune ups, to their website. “We are committed to maintenance programs, and safety in- the customer experience and aim to exspections to customers in the Tampa ceed the expectations of each customer Bay area including Lithia, Brandon and we serve.” Valrico. Max Cool AC serves hundreds of cus“Max Cool Air Conditioning is a fam- tomers in Riverview, Brandon, Apollo ily-owned business and are proud to be Beach and other regions on the West one of Tampa Bay’s top AC companies. Coast of Florida and service all models Our goal has always been to provide the of air conditioning systems. While it is highest quality HVAC service, as well as a Ruud Pro Partner, its knowledge and exceptional customer service and sup- skills extend to other popular name port, to our customers—and we deliver brands, giving customers a wide range just that,” according to their website. of products they can have Max Cool AC The company was started by Kenneth to install, repair and service. Salch in the summer of 2019 and foundIt also services air purification sysed on family values, which they have tems, which have grown more popular extended to their employees and tech- due to the coronavirus. It provides sysnicians. Its technicians are licensed, in- tems from the APCO-X Fresh-Aire UV sured and dedicated to providing quali- Light to Warrior IAQ products that rety service to Max Cool AC’s customers. duce odors contaminates within a home Max Cool AC ensures that its employ- air conditioning system. ees have been drug tested and have For more information on pricing and gone through a pre-employment back- service options, visit maxcoolac.com. ground check before visiting customers. To get a quote or ask questions, call All employees wear uniforms and use a 590-4768 or submit a written request company truck while making service through their website.
Page 3
AN ARTISTIC LIGHT IN OUR COMMUNITY By Libby Hopkins
When people is what led me to start meet Leah Tinsley, painting. I would see so they always demany beautiful things scribe her as ray of and try to express them sunshine, passionthrough words, but it ate, strong, creative was never successful. and inspiring. But Although I had never what most people really painted before don’t know are the outside of high school stories that led up classes, I felt the Lord to her becoming the leading me to paint beautiful person she what he was showing is today. “The reame. As years went by, I son this is importconquered my fears of ant for me to share rejection, being misunis because one of my derstood or not having core values is honesthe level of skill that I When people meet Leah Tinsley, they ty and I believe that always describe her as ray of sunshine, desired. As I shared my when we are trans- passionate, strong, creative and inspiring. artwork with others, parent with one another it brings others they were touched by the images and the encouragement and strength,” Tinsley said. deeper meanings within them.” “I don’t feel sorry for myself, and I don’t reEventually, people started to buy her gret my past because that sort of thinking work and commission her to create custom keeps you heavy and bound.” art. “I’ve painted live at churches, concerts, Tinsley had some challenges growing up, conferences and studios,” Tinsley said. “My but these challenges are what made her most recent one was at The Resting Place the artist she is today. “During these young- in Brandon, FL. They hold a worship night er years, I struggled with anger, loneliness, every first Friday for all. People from differrejection, self-hatred and unhappiness,” ent churches come together and unite, it’s a Tinsley said. “I didn’t know how to talk beautiful experience. I hope to continue to about my feelings, so I expressed myself have opportunities to paint live at churches through creativity. Creating gave me pur- because it’s one of my favorite things to do pose, joy, peace and pride. I also formed a as an artist. When I paint live, I basically close relationship with God while spending feel like I disappear into a different zone hours exploring outside. I could hear His and the creativity overtakes me and comes voice through nature and always felt His out onto the canvas. When I’m done, I step presence with me.” back and look and see a beautiful painting Tinsley’s art is inspired by the challenges full of life. I also really enjoy connecting she has faced in life and how God helped with the community and having the opporher through those challenges. “I had many tunity to speak with others.” encounters, visions, dreams and supernatIf you would like to learn more about ural experiences with God during those Leah Tinsley and her art, you can visit her years knowing Them,” Tinsley said, “which website at www.thecreativeartnest.com. (Take Out Only)
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Page 4
Grace Notes Come As You Are By Debora Coty
I poured a cup of water over my head in the 93-degree heat after sweating out two sets of tennis. Dripping, stinky and exhausted, I checked my phone messages. Oh, no! It was the rehab clinic where I worked as a hand therapist. “Urgent patient scheduled for 11:00 a.m. today.” What? It was my day off! And it was 10:45. “I can’t work today,” I sputtered into the phone. “I’m not in work clothes …” “Just come as you are,” the secretary responded. “Nobody will notice.” Right. I surveyed my sweat-soaked tennis togs. I couldn’t have looked less like a medical professional. Or smelled like it. I doused my nasty self with body spray but only succeeded in reeking like a high school girls’ locker room. But off to work I go. Heigh-ho, heigh-ho. Naturally, none of the other thera-
pists had an extra lab coat to camouflage my inappropriateness. When I called the patient from the waiting room, he eyed me warily. “I … um … thought we were doing Halloween early,” I said lamely. It was August. “I’m supposed to be Serena Williams. At Wimbledon.” The invitation to “come as you are” can be risky. No telling what disgusting messiness you might find if people take you up on it. Yet, the Almighty extends that very invitation to each of us when He calls us to Himself. Come as you are … with your ugly attitudes, stinky sinfulness, slimy pride, pathetic helplessness. Come on, dear child, and I’ll clean you up and make you fresh as new-fallen snow. No matter how filthy you started, you’ll end up beautiful. Have you accepted His awesome invitation yet? “He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit,” (Titus 3:5, NIV).
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.
February 2022
EXTRAORDINARY CHURCH LAUNCHES AT BLOOMINGDALE HIGH SCHOOL By Kelly Wise Valdes
ed to start a Bible study for our community, but nobody would be comfortable cramming into our house,” said James. “So, we got a partnership (and now a friendship) with Maple Street Biscuit Company by our house. They have allowed us to meet in there for Bible study every Tuesday night and we will continue to even after we launch. That Bible study is what has grown into our church.” The Blewetts were Dr. James Blewett, pictured here with wife Heather and children both born and raised in Ethan and Kate, is the lead pastor of the new church launch—Extraordinary Church—that meets at Bloomingdale High School. Hillsborough County and returned to the area five In these extraordinary times, people years ago from Georgia to be closer to are looking for fellowship, renewed family. hope and a place to become involved in “My wife is a King High graduate, the community. No one knows this better than Dr. James Blewett, the found- and I am a Jefferson High graduate,” ing and lead pastor of Extraordinary said James. “I have been in the role Church, a new church that launched in of family pastor at FBC Brandon until January at Bloomingdale High School. we started the process of planting this James, who holds a Doctorate in church in August.” The most exciting part for the Theology, has a deep passion for raisBlewetts is the support they have reing up leaders and planting life-giving ceived from so many of their neighministries. He is also the author of Can bors that are also now involved in the I Get Baptized in Fruit Punch? and Be process of planting this church. The Extraordinary. Along with his wife, Blewetts have lifelong friends that Heather, they are expecting the church are now also instrumental in the new to be an extraordinary community church launch team. partner and where people can come “We know that everyone has had together in worship and exploration. a hard two years,” said James. “We The Blewetts moved into their new neighborhood in Brandon in December started Extraordinary Church so that 2019. “When COVID hit and we were our community can have a church home without any place to go for two where everyone can find your family, months, we got to really know our know your worth and discover your neighbors,” said James. “We became purpose. We believe that God is an exthe unofficial welcoming committee traordinary God that created us for an when new people moved in. My wife extraordinary purpose.” Extraordinary Church meets on was the ringleader of this initiative.” Sundays at 10:30 a.m. at BloomingThe Blewetts’ desire to start this dale High School, located at 1700 E. church came as a wish to provide a Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. For more church for the rapid influx of people information, visit www.extraordinarymoving into their neighborhood and church.net or follow on Facebook @ people moving into the community. extraodinarychurchfl. “Once the lockdown ended, we want-
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Volume 26 | Issue 02
TROOP 61 HOSTS ANNUAL TASTE OF SCOUTING BBQ FUNDRAISER
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camping equipment, repair our flotilla of canoes, offset the cost of summer camp, and provide Scout families assistance through scholarships in case of financial hardships,” said Zelatis. “We want every young perMembers of Boy Scout Troop 61 are getting ready for their annual Taste of son to experience Scouting BBQ fundraiser on Saturday, February 5 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Scouting. Also, If you like barbecue a portion of the and helping the comproceeds will go munity, mark your calto the Presbyteendars for Saturday, rian Church of February 5. Boy Scout Bloomingdale to Troop 61 will host the help pay for buildfourth annual ‘Taste ing and grounds of Scouting’ barbecue maintenance and event from 11 a.m.-5 incidentals.” p.m. at the PresbyteriScouts are inan Church of Bloomingvolved in every dale, located at 710 E. aspect of event Bloomingdale Ave. in from preparing Brandon. the meats to servThis community-wide ing the guests. event will include barbecue “The night bemeals prepared by Scouts fore, the Scouts for customers to pick up and will first make the enjoy. The Scouts will also rubs and sauces,” be explaining and demonsaid Zelatis, “then strating various skills such they will trim and as knot tying, camping prepare the meats demonstration, pioneering for smoking. Beand more. ing that this is an “The event was first held overnight cook, in February 2019, and we have been the adult leaders will man the smokers holding it every year since,” said Troop while the Scouts camp out and sleep in Committee Member & Pitmaster John preparation of the next day’s activities. Zelatis. On the day of the event, they will be This year, the meal will include a serving food and setting up activities choice of low and slow-smoked brisket, such as knot tying, orienteering, fire pulled pork or turkey with potato salad, building, camping, backpacking, first baked beans, a roll and drink. The meals aid and more so all our guests can see are $18 if you preorder online or $20 at what Scouting is all about.” the door. To preorder a Taste of Scouting BBQ “The funds raised will be utilized to meal, visit https://2022tasteofscouthelp lower Scout dues and registration ing.eventbrite.com/ or www.bstroop61. fees, purchase new or upgrade existing com and click on ‘Taste of Scouting.’
.
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Page 6
CONCERTS, CONFERENCES, CAR SHOWS, BBQ & MORE! Rise Conference 2022 Being Held At citylife church
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Seffner.
Rise Conference 2022, to be held at citylife church, is a free worldclass, two-day experience for church leaders who desire rise above average and accomplish extraordinary exploits for Jesus. Amazing guest speakers will take to the stage from Wednesday, February 23 through com. Thursday, February 24. citylife church is located at 8411 Dale Mabry Hwy. in Tampa. For registration St. Francis or more information, visit www.risecon- Sweetheart ference.cc. Show
Natalie Grant Performing At The Crossing Church
Of Assisi Parish Car And Talent
Natalie Grant will be performing at The Crossing Church on Thursday, February 24 at 7 p.m. This The JOY FM event will be hosted at The Crossing Church’s Tampa and bottled water. Enjoy some great campus, located at 10130 Tus- BBQ prepared by Scouts for your dining cany Ridge Dr. in Tampa. Joining pleasure. It will take place at PresbyteNatalie is Charlotte Gambill, an author, speaker and pastor that leads LIFE Church in England. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.daretobe.com.
St. Francis of Assisi Parish is holding BBQ Scout Fundraiser At MPOWER – Men’s Breakfast its Sweetheart Car and Talent Show, Presbyterian Church Of Fellowfeaturing mu- Bloomingdale sic by Tommy ship ConThe fourth annual barbecue fundPatrick. Cars raiser for Boy Scout Troop 61 is being ference At of all makes held on Saturday, February 5 from 11 New Hope and models a.m.-5 p.m. They are selling brisket, Church are available Hear and meet others about how to take almost any area or path in your life to the next level at the MPOWER – Men’s Breakfast Fellowship Conference. The conference is being held on Saturday, February 19 from 7-10 a.m. at New Hope Church, located at 213 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.findnewhope.
February 2022
pulled pork and smoked turkey dinner to ender the plates. Each mail comes with a dinner show. Reg- roll, potato salad, BBQ beans, BBQ sauce rian Church of Bloomingdale, located at istration 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Branbegins at don. 7 a.m. on S at u rd ay, Violets Show And Sale At Fe b r u a r y Temple Terrace United 12. There Methodist Church will be The Tampa African Violet Sotrophies, ciety is holding its annual display food, a DJ, door prizes and raffles. and sale on Friday, February 25 and For more information or to register Saturday, February 26 at Temple for the Sweetheart Car and Talent Terrace United Methodist Church, Show, visit https://stfrancisccseffner. located at 5030 E. Busch Blvd in com/car-show/. St. Francis of Assisi Tampa. For more information, visit is located at 4450 County Rd. 579 in www.tampaafricanviolets.com.
Volume 26 | Issue 02
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
VALRICO EAGLE SCOUT CREATES BLESSING BOX
Staff Report
ministry provides free hot meals twice a month to anyone. Noting the great need in the c o m m u n i t y, Gavin decided on this project to help supplement food in between those Gavin De Croix, a Life Scout from BSA Troop 109 in Valrico, recently assembled a Blessing hot meals.” Box, which is now operating at the TLC Feeding Ministry at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Anyone Church in Valrico. who wishes Gavin De Croix, a Life Scout from to donate food items to the box can BSA Troop 109 in Valrico, is one step bring them to Holy Innocents’ Church, closer to earning his Eagle Scout rank. located at 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico. Gavin completed his Eagle Scout projTo earn the Eagle Scout rank, the ect last month with the help of Scouts highest advancement rank in Scouting, from Boy Scout Troop 109 and Girl a Scout must fulfill requirements in the Scout Troop 901. areas of leadership, service and outFor his project, Gavin chose a Bless- door skills. He or she advances through ing Box, which is a free little pantry the ranks—Scout, Tenderfoot, Second that those in need of food and can stop Class, First Class, Star, Life and Eaby at any time and help themselves gle—along the journey, earning a minwithout feeling ashamed or judged. imum of 21 merit badges, serving six “Also, people who wish to donate months in a troop position of responnonperishable items can drop off goods sibility, taking part in a Scoutmaster in the box at any time to help support conference and proposing, planning their community,” said Gavin’s mother, and carrying out leadership to others Mary Beth De Croix. in a service project helpful to the comThe box is placed at the TLC Feeding munity. Ministry at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Mary Beth invites anyone who would Church in Valrico. like more information on scouting to “Gavin chose the TLC Feeding Min- visit the troop’s meetings on Monday istry at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal evenings at 7 p.m. at Holy Innocents’ Church as the beneficiary of this proj- Episcopal Church. For more informaect to support all they do for the com- tion, email bsatroop109valrico@gmail. munity,” said Mary Beth. “The feeding com.
Page 7
FAMILY-OWNED BRYAN HINDMAN ELECTRIC
TREATS CUSTOMERS LIKE FAMILY
By Michelle Caceres
It’s no secret that ing an outlet, for a homeownership comes larger job he wantwith a lot of responsied to rely on an exbilities, including home pert in the field. maintenance. While Hindman personcertain basic repairs ally came out to like caulking or replacgive him the quote ing air filters can be and he worked handled by the homewith Charlene in owner, when it comes his office to schedto electrical work, it’s ule an appointment best to leave it to the to have the work professionals. done. Mailloux “Certified electrical Call the experts at Bryan Hindman Electric to hired Hindman handle all of your electrical needs. contractors are exto install a 30perts in their field and can complete work amp RV outlet and a special breaker in his quickly and professionally for homeown- breaker box so he could run his home, if ers,” said Bryan Hindman, owner of Bryan necessary, with a portable generator. Hindman Electric, master electrician and “If my power goes out now, I just flip one Florida State-certified electrical contrac- breaker and can run my generator,” he said. tor. “We’re able to pull permits if necessary “It’s increased the value of my home.” and make sure the work is completed corAs a former small business owner himrectly and up to code.” self, Mailloux is a big advocate of hiring A family-owned business (Hindman’s locally owned businesses and tries to hire spouse, Heather, is the co-owner and busi- them whenever possible. “Bryan Hindman ness operations manager), Bryan Hindman Electric came highly recommended and Electric specializes in taking care of ev- they’re really knowledgeable about local eryday electrical needs, including electric building codes and statutes,” he said. “You repairs (faulty wiring and breaker replace- can’t go wrong with them.” ment), installation (of fans, recess cans, He was also impressed that Hindman fixtures, pendant lights, new outlets and called and followed up after the job was switches) and maintenance for homeown- completed to make sure he was satisfied. ers, business owners and property manag- “He’s a hands-on owner, which I really apers. Additional services include installing preciated,” he said. surge protectors, smoke detectors, securiBryan Hindman Electric will be moving ty cameras, fountains, pool lighting and se- soon to a new office in Riverview. “We’re curity lighting. His team can also upgrade excited to be in our new location,” said existing wiring to meet current electrical Heather. codes. Bryan Hindman Electric is open Monday Riverview resident Christian Mailloux to Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. hired Hindman after getting glowing recFor more information about Bryan Hindommendations from other homeowners. man Electric, visit www.bryanhindmanWhile Mailloux said he is capable of chang- electric.com or call 672-4084.
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Page 8
FORGOTTEN ANGELS LAUNCHES RAFFLE TO WIN FORD RANGER AND HARLEY
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Forgotten Angels is a nonprofit that provides resources and support to support children that have aged out of foster care and are struggling to achieve housing, education and life skills. Many children that lived in foster care until the age of 18 find themselves with no home, no transportation and little hope Forgotten Angels will be raffling a new 2021 Ford Ranger Tremor with the for the future. That’s full off-road package. All ticket sales will go to benefit Forgotten Angels. where Forgotten Angels steps in. The organization purchased even putting money aside for retirement. 12 acres of land in Valrico several years “As a foundation, we are blessed to have ago, and it currently houses 17 residents one of the best communities in the world in tiny homes built on the property. as supporters,” said Tyler. “That would be “We are proud to say that we are open- the motorcycle community. Through our ing new facilities in the near future in motorcycle rallies, motorcycle camp outs, Atlanta, Georgia; St. Augustine, Florida; sponsored rides and sponsors like Harley another facility in Valrico,” said David Davidson, we have been able to grow fastTyler, executive director. “The hard work er than we ever anticipated.” that goes into the young men that come In order to continue funding and growto us is paying off in spades. Every sin- ing, Forgotten Angels is raffling off a gle resident of Forgotten Angels is either brand-new 2021 Ford Ranger Tremor with working full time at great companies like the full off-road package. This incredible Hoppen Home Entertainment, Smart Sur- truck will be won on Saturday, March 19. faces and, very soon, Tampa Bay Fisher- There will also be a second-place raffle ies, or attending Hillsborough Community winner of a Low Rider S Harley Davidson College or taking online college courses. motorcycle. Raffle tickets are $25 for one We are also proud to have a graduating ticket, and $100 for five tickets. All the JRTC member at Newsome High School money donated to this raffle goes to benmaking us very proud.” efit the Forgotten Angels children, build Forgotten Angels takes these children more tiny homes and expand the circle of in and teaches them life skills, including compassion. the opportunity to build their own tiny To purchase a raffle ticket, visit home, open a bank account, build credit, https://rafflecreator.com/pages/47938/ get a job and transportation as well as ford-ranger-raffle-fundraiser. To find out love, care and guidance from being part how you can help, email david@forgotof a family. All 17 residents have their own tenangelsflorida.org, call 728-0461 or vehicles and sources of income, with some visit www.forgottenangelsflorida.org.
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Volume 26 | Issue 02
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Page 9
Pastor’s Corner Jomo Cousins, PhD
CUT YOUR LOSSES
By Pastor Jomo Cousins, PhD
Jonah 1:12 (AMP) 12 Jonah said to them, “Pick me up and throw me into the sea. Then the sea will become calm for you, for I know that it is because of me that this great storm has come upon you.” In the story about Jonah, we see that having the wrong person in our company could cause everybody to go down with the ship. We must be careful whom we fellowship with and which fellows we allow in our ships. People are much like elevators—they will take you up and take you down. We must learn to identify who can be helped and who will likely stay just as they are. I have learned that people do not change much. By nature, I am long suffering, and I will try to save people and help them to be what I think they
should be. Sadly, I had to learn, over time, that we cannot motivate the unmotivated. We often want more for people than they want for themselves. It may be well-intentioned to try to call someone higher, but I have come to realize that if doing so starts to make me lose my composure, it is time to let them go. I much prefer to lead someone that I have to pull back rather than push forward. Understand that not everyone is going to make it to the finish line with us. Some people in life are scaffolding—they are just there to help get the walls up. Prayer: Lord, help me to identify those in my life I need to hold on to and those I need to release. Lord, give me wisdom in my partnerships and my associations so that I can make good decisions, in Jesus’ name. Amen. Except from: 60 Prayers in 60 Seconds, page 23.
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Page 10
February 2022
Local Area Church Directory BAPTIST
St. Stephen Catholic Church 10118 Saint Stephen Circle, Riverview (813) 689-4900
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
Centerpoint Church 1801 S. Miller Rd., Valrico (813) 689-1906 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
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
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
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
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
Calvary Chapel Brandon 1331 Kingsway Rd., Brandon (813) 681-5318 Celestial Church of Christ Altar of Restoration 1209W Brandon Blvd, Unit 102 (813) 720-0745
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Volume 26 | Issue 02
Page 11
The Greatest Of These Is Love
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Roses, chocolates and a romantic dinner are some of the things we associate with Valentine’s Day. But showing love for our spouse, children, neighbors and friends should be demonstrated and celebrated year-round, not just on February 14. In the New International Version of the Bible, the word ‘love’ is mentioned 551 times. As Christians, we know that there are different types of love, but the most important is agape love—the unconditional love of God for us. We all need to practice this type of unconditional love through our actions of forgiveness, kindness, patience, gentleness and mercy. This Valentine’s Day, choose to practice unconditional love to others around you. Practice more grace. Practice more patience. “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love,” Corinthians 13:13. Much love and blessings to you this month and every day.
The Love Chapter ROSE PUBLISHING In this faith-based book, readers will enjoy having a close-up look with Dare to Love as the author explains line by line the love chapter of 1 Corinthians 13. Be encouraged and challenged as you gain a clearer understanding of what love really is and how to practically show it to those around you—whether it’s a spouse, child, friend or neighbor. This book is a great way to start practicing authentic love to others.
I Love You, Really I Do By Larry N. Walls Have you ever wondered what love really means? How do we truly love one another? This
You Are Loved, Women of Faith Bible Small Things with Great Love: Adventures in Loving Your Neighbor Study By Sally Clarkson, Angela Perritt By Margot Starbuck, Tony Campolo Are you looking for acceptance and
book takes readers through the steps needed to validation in all the wrong places? Make understand love and to understand our relation- the life-changing discovery that God ships with others, whether it is with our children knows you completely and will cherish or a potential spouse. Learn about the different you forever. In this book, readers will kinds of love and how each one of them can af- learn transformative scriptural truths that fect a relationship, learn how to change a bad re- reveal the depth of God’s love. If you feel lationship into a good one and learn how having a stuck in an unhealthy pattern of thinking, relationship with God can help us to have a great then it’s time for you to dig into Scripture relationship.
and encounter God in a new way.
This book invites you to choose the adventure that fits who you are in authentically loving those around you. With a list of resources, a study guide and a six-week ‘adventure challenge,’ as well as plenty of stories and hilarity from the author’s own life, this faith-based book will open your eyes to the people around you and the huge impact you can have on them through small acts of love.
Page 12
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
JUSTON FEIST JOINS NATIVITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL AS THE NEW ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
By Lily Belcher
University of the youth into caring South Florida gradand responsible citiuate Juston Feist zens,” said Feist. “He is was hired as Nativmy biggest role model ity Catholic School’s and my inspiration for new physical eduwanting to become a cation teacher and PE teacher and make athletic director an impact in the comfollowing Hillsmunity.” borough County’s Feist’s role as Nativwinter break. Naity Catholic School’s tivity’s staff is aims athletic director exto “prepare and intends beyond the walls spire each student of the Sister Irene St. academically and Jean Gymnasium. Evspiritually to serve ery morning and afterJuston Feist was hired as Nativity Catholic the Body of Christ” School’s new physical education teacher and noon, Feist assists his athletic director and, in hiring Coach coworkers in helping Feist, they are enguide Nativity’s young trusting him with the students to and from their physical education of classrooms during carline and their students as well greeting the parents dropping as their academic and off and picking up their young spiritual education. students. Feist plans to coach “Before being hired Nativity’s girls and boys varsity at Nativity, my experience in athletics was basketball teams later in the year as well. broad. I played baseball growing up all The 29-year-old coach was raised in my life and basketball competitively,” said Brandon and knew of Nativity’s prestige, Feist. “Sports have been something that’s which is what attracted him to joining the been a part of my life since I was 3 years staff, under the leadership of Principal old.” Maureen Ringley and Pastor John Tapp. Feist had coached high school basketball “Nativity School and Church has been in New York and Florida as well as travel and continues to be an iconic place in baseball prior to joining Nativity’s facul- Brandon, and to have the opportunity to ty. Feist explained that it was his grand- work here and give back to the community father, Tony Saladino, who inspired him I was born and raised in is truly a blessto become a physical education teacher ing,” said Feist. through his own teaching career of over For more information on Nativity Cath50 years. olic School, contact 698-3395 or visit Na“I wanted to be a PE teacher because tivity’s website at nativitycatholicschool. of my grandfather and passion to develop org.
February 2022
HOPE FOR HER STARTS HEALTHY HABITS CLASS
By Kate Quesada
Hope for Her has an exciting announce- pot and recipes. Come, hungry-samples ment for local women. The group, with will be available.” the mission of helping women and their On Monday, February 14, the class will families in crisis find stability and live be Declutter Your Heart. “February brings their best lives, is hosting Healthy Habits a wonderful opportunity to ‘Let Go and classes starting next Let God,’” said Hickmonth. man. “As women, “We are so exwe juggle responsicited to kick off bilities, stress and our Healthy Habits constant demands Classes at Hope for on our time and emoHer,” said Cheryl tional energy. Ilene Hickman, Hope for is a counselor at Bay Her executive direcLife Church Countor. “We accomplish seling Center. Come our mission through learn tools to navisupport and educagate life’s challenges tion in five areas, Hope for Her is hosting Healthy Habits Classes and free up space in emotional health, fiyour heart.” starting next month. nancial health, spiriFunctional Fitness tual health, physical health and nutrition- will take place on Monday, February 21. al health.” “You’ve heard if we don’t move our bodies, The classes will begin Monday, February we will lose them,” said Hickman. “Func7 and will take place every Monday night tional Fitness teaches easy stretching and until November from 6:15-7:30 p.m. relaxation techniques that we all can use The classes are free and will be held at daily. Kristen is a certified Yoga teacher Hope for Her, which is located at 140 Yar- that will give practical fitness tips we can brough Rd. in Brandon. use every day to improve our health. Wear “We are creating a community of wom- comfortable clothes for light stretching.” en who want to live their best lives,” said The final February class will be SpirHickman. “We do this by sharing our mu- itual Health. “As a faith-based ministry, tual experience and growing together. All we believe in the power of strong spirithe facilitators will share from their per- tual life,” said Hickman. “Believing we are sonal experiences.” loved deeply by our God is foundational. The first class on February 7 will be a As women, we sometimes doubt our valCrack Pot class. “Busy but want to provide ue. Debbie is a leader with Bible Study a good nutritional meal for your family?” Fellowship. She will share truths of God’s said Hickman. “Johnna will share tips and word about His never-ending love for us.” tricks she has learned along with simple To sign up, call 309-3357 or register recipes for wholesome crockpot meals. through the group’s Facebook page @ Each participant will receive a new crock- hopeforherfl.
Volume 26 | Issue 02
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Page 13
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Page 14
February 2022
DISCOVER THE FUN AS FLORIDA STATE FAIR OPENS FEBRUARY 10
By Kate Quesada
Mark your caldog, which conendars because sists of a homethe Florida State made Long John Fair is coming donut, freshly to town. Held at grilled all-beef the Florida State hotdog, appleFa i r g r o u n d s wood bacon and from Thursday, icing drizzled on February 10 to top. Wednesday, FebTo prepare to ruary 23, the fair eat all the delioffers food, fun, cious fair food, entertainment residents are and even educainvited to partion for the whole The Florida State Fair opens on Thursday, February 10. ticipate in the family. Deep-Fried Dash The Florida State Fair, 5K and Fun Run. The first held in Tampa in run, which starts at 7 1904, has become one of a.m. on Saturday, Febthe largest events in the ruary 19, takes particstate, attracting more ipants through the fair than 500,000 people grounds on the 5K and during its 12-day run. fun runs. The fair boasts the largAll proceeds from est midway in the USA, a the Deep-Fried Dash robust agricultural prowill benefit the Florida gram, a circus, interactive State Fair Foundation, animal exhibits and new attractions each a 501(c)(3) whose mission is to improve year. and support agricultural, scientific and As the first state fair of the year, the educational programs at the Florida Florida State Fair is the first to debut State Fair like Cracker Country Living new foods as well as all of the unique fair History Museum, Ag-Venture and more. foods visitors have come to know and Participants can register today at love. https://floridastatefair.com/5K/. According to the fair’s website, some It’s affordable family fun at its best. of this year’s unique food items include Armbands for unlimited rides and other the caramel apple cinnamon roll, which advance ticket deals are available online. is a cinnamon roll topped with warm cin- For more information about the Florida namon apple pie topping, drizzled with State Fair, please visit www.floridastatewarm caramel; deep fried banana pud- fair.com or follow on Facebook, Twitter ding, which is donut holes topped with and/or Instagram. banana pudding, whipped cream and The Florida State Fairgrounds are locaramel drizzled on top; and the donut cated at 4800 U.S. 301 in Tampa.
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Volume 26 | Issue 02
WINTHROP STUDENT PLACES IN NATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
By Kate Quesada
In the year and a was 42 (+6).” half since Kylani GathShe traveled the ers started swinging East Coast to particigolf clubs on her 7th pate in regional tourbirthday, the Winthrop naments, advanced to Charter Academy stuthe sub-regional for dent has made great the Drive, Chip, Putt strides. Earlier this Competition and remonth, she was the ceived an invitation to runner-up in the Junior and competed in the Honda Classic in West U.S. Kids Golf World Palm Beach and has big Championship in Pinegoals for the future. hurst, North Carolina, Kylani’s father, Corey placing 43rd in the Gathers, bought her a world ranking for the set of real golf clubs for girls 8-year-old diviher 7th birthday, and sion. she has been working Most recently, hard to succeed ever Kylani placed runsince. ner-up at the Junior “In 2020, she par- Eight-year-old Kylani Gathers is making a Honda Classic in name for herself in the golf world. ticipated at a local West Palm Beach. junior golf clinic just to see what she could The golf tournament was held at the PGA do for fun,” said Corey. “By the end of the National Resort and Golf Course. session, the golf instructor wanted her to “The Honda Classic is essentially a procome back for more instruction and en- fessional event; however, the IMG Acadcouraged us to participate in competitive emy sponsors the junior portion of the junior golf.” event,” explained Corey. “She set her perIn January of 2021, Kylani entered her sonal record by shooting even par (36) in first U.S. Kids Golf tournament. tournament play. This was a big step for “After placing last place in that tourney, her as she set a goal at the beginning of the Kylani worked very hard to not be there year to shoot under par.” again,” said Corey. “She did finish the winCorey feels her passion for golf will help ter season but did not place well at all.” Kylani go far. During 2021, Kylani participated in three “Kylani truly has a gift in the game of U.S. Kids Golf seasons. According to Corey, golf,” he said. “In your average person, the she finished as top five in the spring, sea- progress she has made in this game comes son champion in the summer and season over years. She has cut that time tremenchampion in the fall. dously and works hard toward becoming “She started the year shooting a 58 her best.” (+22) for nine holes and it lit a fire in her,” To learn more, visit www.kylanigathhe said. “By the summer, she shot her low- ers.com or follow her on Instagram at @ est score of 38 (+2) and her stroke average kylanigathersgolf.
Page 15
ARTISTS INVITED TO ENTER ARTWORK IN FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL ART SHOW By Kathi L. Collins
A call to artists receive third and has been issued fourth place reby the East Hillsceive rosette ribborough Art Guild bons. (EHAG) for the 2022 For youth, first Florida Strawberplace receives $25 ry Festival Fine Art and second place Show, which runs receives $15. Enfrom Thursday, tries who win third March 3 through and fourth place Sunday, March 13 at receive a rosette the Festival Grounds ribbon. All youth in Plant City. The show participants receive will be held in the Milton participation ribE. Hull Building. bons. Adults are divided into Artists who do not professional groups (enwin one of the above try fee is $15) and amprizes are eligible for ateur groups (entry fee a Business Leaders is $12). Adults can enter Choice Award. Area oils, acrylics, watercolresidents can also ors, graphic/mixed media become sponsors for Artists young and old, professional and sculptures. The entry and amateur, are encouraged to enter the In Honor Award fee for miniature art (2D original artwork into the 2022 Florida and select a winning media) and sculptures Strawberry Festival Fine Art Show. Your artist who will reartwork is eligible to win a ribbon and ceive a ribbon and (3D art) is $12. cash prize. The youth divisions are $50. by ages. Youth can enter oils, acrylics, waSpace is limited and entries are accepttercolors, graphic/mixed media and sculp- ed on a first-come, first-serve basis. Early tures. The entry fee is $5. entries are accepted until Friday, February Adults can enter up to four entries, but 11. Artists can mail their entry form and no more than two in the same division. fee to East Hillsborough Art Guild, P.O. Youth can enter up to two entries. Box 3055, Plant City, FL 33564. Artwork Entries are eligible for substantial mon- must be brought to the Festival Grounds etary awards. This includes $100 for the on Saturday, February 19 from 12 Noon-6 Strawberry Theme Award (an entry must p.m. include strawberries or reflect the curChairperson Karen Crumley said, “Our rent festival theme of ‘#1 for FUN!’). There entry day was moved to Saturday to alis also $300 for Best of Show. low easier access to more working people There are prizes for first ($150) and or parents with school age children.” second ($100) place in all adult and youth Entry forms and rules can be found at divisions. Adult amateurs, miniature and www.flstrawberryfestival.com. If you sculpture entries receive $100 for first have questions, please email Crumley at place and $75 for second. Adults who kscrumley@yahoo.com or call 924-3829.
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February 2022
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALLISON KAMINSKI
LOCAL ARCHER SULLENBERGER EARNS SCHOLARSHIP TO COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY Valrico resident Sydney Sullenberger has had a decorated young career in the sport of archery thus far. She achieved her biggest honor in November when she signed to continue her athletic and academic career with Ivy League school Columbia University. “It’s everything I’ve worked towards these past few years,” said Sullenberger. “I had no idea Sullenberger was one of three girls that represented the United States in that archery would get Wroclaw, Poland in early August. She qualified 8th as an individual in me this far, let alone take the world and her team qualified 3rd in the world. me to college to shoot. To see everything come together makes all Junior Olympic Archery Development the hard work and everything pay off.” (JOAD) Nationals and the world youth The Tampa Catholic High School senior team trials in Decatur, Alabama last always wanted to shoot archery in col- July. She finished as the top seed out of lege, but she never thought that Colum- 78 girls at the JOAD Nationals and later bia would be in her cards for her future. competed against the top eight for the She had offers from other schools, but world youth teams trials, in which she she particularly loved Columbia’s atmo- also claimed first place. She was one of sphere, city life and coaching staff. three girls that represented the United “To have that offer was incredible and States in Wrocław, Poland in early Auwas very unexpected,” she said. “The fa- gust last year. She qualified eighth as cility and everything they can offer me an individual in the world and her team will allow me to grow as an athlete and qualified third in the world. as a student.” Sullenberger was also recently named The archer took home gold at the to the 2022 United States Archery Team
Sydney Sullenberger signed with Ivy League Columbia University in early November. Sullenberger was recently named to the 2022 United States Archery Team U18 (Cadet), and she’s ranked #1 in the U.S. in U18 compound females.
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U18 (Cadet), and she’s also ranked No. 1 in the U.S. in U18 compound females. She will compete in the Lancaster Archery Classic in Pennsylvania at the end of January and in Las Vegas, Nevada. Sullenberger looks forward to competing with her teammates at Columbia and shooting at the collegiate level. As of right now, she will major in sociology, and she wants to go in the route of behavior analytics as a career. She would also like to continue her archery career as a professional after graduation.
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Volume 26 | Issue 02
FAITH & FOOTPRINTS
Basilica di San Valentino – Terni, Italy February is often considered the month of ‘love,’ so it’s only fitting to learn more about the Basilica di San Valentino, which honors Saint Valentine. The basilica stands just outside the town center of Terni, Italy on the site of an ancient Christian cemetery where St. Valentine was buried. He was the first bishop of the city and a martyr who lived in the third century A.D. Terni’s Basilica di San Valentino is an elegant and elaborate church that was constructed in the valley below the main city. Established in 1630, the Basilica of San Valentino is built on top of the remains of two previous churches, the first of which dates from the fourth century (which was destroyed by the Goths in the sixth century) and the second dates from the seventh century. The church was built on top of the tomb of St. Valentine, but his remains are now preserved behind glass above the main altar of the church. The history of the basilica is uncertain until 1605, when the search for the body of St. Valentine began. The excavations were promoted by Pope Paul V as part of the renewed interest in the first martyrs of the Church, which served to authenticate their existence and increase their honor. The state of ruin took its toll on the basilica combined the growth in the worship of St. Valentine and led to his relics being transferred to the ca-
Page 17
By Kelly Wise Valdes
thedral. The reconstruction of the basilica began in 1606 with the building of a simple structure, including the altar containing the body of St. Valentine, which was returned to the basilica in 1618. The stucco statues on the outside, also dating from the 17th century, were placed during an 18th century restoration. The saint’s custom of promoting relationships among the young is associated with a number of legends. One story tells of the difficult marriage between a pagan and a Christian, brought together by St. Valentine for eternity. Another story references a “rose of reconciliation” offered by St. Valentine to an arguing couple. It is also said that St. Valentine married couples, particularly Roman soldiers, at a time when Emperor Claudius II banned soldiers from getting married to keep them free of familial obligations. The day that we celebrate St. Valentine, February 14, is the day on which he was martyred for preaching God’s word. Each year on February 14, engaged couples do pilgrimages to the church to receive the blessing of the bishop and promise of eternal love. For more information about Basilica di San Valentino, visit www.sanvalentinoternibasilica.it.
Live Like You Mean It ...
Why Showing Up At Church Counts My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, (John 17:20). This week, I’m thinking about the ‘why’ of attending church. It’s a good question, especially considering things like COVID-19 restrictions, and travel time, and the fact that, while focused on God, churches are run and populated by people. And people mess up in so many ways! So, I try to think about a couple of key truths: 1. We are created by and in the image of a God who not only loves us but who
imagined, designed, and then formed us to enjoy the experience of community. Simply put, we need one another, and church is a community built around the complete expression of God in Jesus. 2. At church, I am encouraged in my commitment to worship The Creator, I am inspired and instructed by The Holy Spirit, and I grow in my desire to know Jesus. To the extent that I am immersed in the life of a church, I am following Jesus. Church is not only somewhere I can go to gather strength but also a body I can in turn strengthen—and encour-
age, and fill with God’s light via my participation. One question I like to ask when I guest speak at churches is this: “If this church suddenly ceased to exist, would it make any difference? Would the surrounding community even notice?” I go to church, then, not just to worship God, not just to be inspired by the Spirit and not just to know Jesus, but because a congregation that does all of this, and follows Christ’s command to love, is the beating heart—the living soul—of a community. And if this world, and in particular
By Derek Maul
the United States, needs one thing to be stronger in these unsettled and unsettling times, then that is its collective soul. Simply put, church can be the means of grace by which God brings healing to this broken world. That is not only our privilege, it is our responsibility. 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
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February 2022
HOT OFF THE CHRISTIAN NEWS WIRE Jeremy Camp Announce The ‘I Still the national championship game in Indianapolis beBelieve Tour’ GRAMMY®-nominated singer/songwriter Jeremy Camp is launching the ‘I Still Believe Tour’ with special guests Riley Clemmons and Jordan St. Cyr. The tour will span 20 cities and features some of Camp’s biggest hits, including “Dead Man Walking,” “Keep Me in the Moment,” “I Still Believe” and many more. “I can’t wait to get out on the road for the I Still Believe Tour in March,” said Camp. “It’s going to be an amazing sight to be worshipping again with people soon.” In 2020, Camp celebrated the release of the film I Still Believe, which reveals his personal life story. Camp also released a marriage book with his wife, Adrienne, titled In Unison. The tour will kick off on Thursday, March 10 in Amarillo, Texas and make three stops in Florida, including Countryside Christian Church in Clearwater on Friday, April 1. For a full list of dates and cities, and to purchase tickets, visit www.istillbelievetour.com.
tween Georgia and Alabama that immediately drew applause from sports and non-sports fans alike. At one point on a Monday night, her name was the fifth most searched term on Google, likely sparked by Americans who had just learned about the talented Christian music artist. Before her performance, Grant requested prayer. “Tonight is the night! I’ll be performing our national anthem for the national championship game! Would you say a prayer for me? That my voice would be strong, and everything about me would shine the light of JESUS!” she wrote on Facebook. To hear Grant’s performance, visit www. youtube.com and search for ‘Natalie Grant national anthem.’
Natalie Grant’s rendition of the national anthem during last month’s college football championship game led to widespread acclamation—as well as trending searches on Google and Twitter from viewers who wanted to know more about her. The nine-time GRAMMY-nominated Christian singer delivered a powerful rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” before
Billy Graham, is scheduled to be released from the hospital after unexpectedly suffering two heart attacks. “God has heard and answered our prayers,” said evangelist and author Anne Graham-Lotz, daughter of Graham. “Join
us in praising Him! He has surely been an ever-present help in times of trouble.” Initially, doctors attributed her heart attacks to a very rare condition one doctor described as ‘broken heart syndrome,’ an issue for which there is no known cause. At the time, hospital staff were running a battery of tests in hopes of determining the cause for Wright’s condition. The cardiologist working with Graham-Lotz’s daughter has since diagnosed Wright with spontaneous coronary artery dissection as the cause of the two heart attacks. Graham-Lotz ended her post with Psalm 59:16, which states, “I will sing of Your strength, in the morning I will sing of Your love; for You are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble.”
By Kelly Wise Valdes
While Richard served as a New York police officer, his experiences taught some difficult lessons that impacted him spiritually. These experiences led him to investigate whether he could believe the Bible is God’s word and whether there was sufficient evidence to prove Jesus’ life and existence. It was Richard’s own, real-life spiritual conundrum that sparked his movie-making journey.
Actor Ray Romano’s Brother: Rev. Billy Graham’s Granddaugh- The Ex-NYPD Cop Who Emter Recovering From Heart Atbarked On An Intacks vestigation To Prove Rachel-Ruth Jesus’ Death And Richard wrote a reNatalie Grant ‘Crushed It’: Singer’s Lotz Wright, the al-life story that serves as the basis of The Resurrection Name Trends On Google After Na- granddaughter Investigator, a movie about a veteran police Actor Ray Romano is famous of the late Rev. tional Anthem detective who becomes a criminal justice for his rolls in shows like Ev-
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erybody Loves Raymond and Parenthood, but Ray is not the only talented person in his family. Ray’s brother, Richard Romano, took a different path from his famed brother. A 20-year veteran of the New York Police Department, Richard became a cop because he wanted to make a positive impact in society.
teacher and baseball coach at a local high school before embarking on the “most important investigation of his life.” Richard had never written a screenplay and admitted that his first thought was, “I’m not Raymond.” He didn’t believe he’d be able to do it, but God’s push persisted. The Investigator is available to view at www. pureflix.com.
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Volume 26 | Issue 02
METROPOLITAN MINISTRIES VOLUNTEER DONATES FOOD TO NEARLY 300 FAMILIES IN NEED
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HOMETOWN PAPER CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF POSITIVE COMMUNITY NEWS By Marie Gilmore, Publisher
By Lily Belcher
Brandon Regional Hospital’s Jill Lansky volunteered at Metropolitan Ministries’ holiday tent.
In 2020, Jill Lansky volunteered at Metropolitan Ministries’ holiday tent. After volunteering with the nonprofit organization based out of Tampa, Lansky felt compelled to find a way to provide more substantial food to families in need. “I spend time volunteering … and it warmed my heart to pack boxes with food for families that are struggling in our community,” said Lansky. Lansky spent all of 2021 searching for someone who could provide 1,000 pounds of potatoes for struggling families. She remembered that one of her family friends, Zach Hawkins, a Bloomingdale High School graduate, manages a potato farm in South Carolina. With the help of Hawkins, Lansky was able to get in contact with Walther Farms, who was willing to donate the potatoes. The only problem was that she had to find a way to pick up 1,000 pounds of potatoes. “As luck would have it, Zach was traveling to Tampa at the time [and] they were ready and delivered the donated potatoes himself,” said Lansky. “I am
so grateful and proud of Zach and for his hand in giving back to his hometown.” Lansky was able to help nearly 300 families with the potatoes by donating a large bag to feed each family. A year after the initial idea, Lansky and Hawkins distributed the potatoes through Metropolitan Ministries’ holiday tent in December of 2021 to registered clients, who received a food box and toys for their children alongside the potatoes. “I saw a need to provide something substantial that would give families more on their dinner plates. I thought potatoes would be the perfect food. There are so many ways to prepare them, and they fill bellies,” explained Lansky. When Lansky is not volunteering with Metropolitan Ministries, which she has been doing for five years, she is working as the director of business development at Brandon Regional Hospital. Lansky helped start the mentor program for women through Metropolitan Ministries’ residential program during her time volunteering as well. For more information on Metropolitan Ministries, contact 209-1000 or visit its website at metromin.org. For more information on how to volunteer, visit their website to fill out the interest form or contact volunteer@metromin.org.
The Osprey Observer team gathers for its recent 20th anniversary ribbon-cutting. Photo courtesy of the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce.
A major milestone has been reached for the award-winning Osprey Observer Community Newspapers as we print our first edition for our 20th anniversary on Wednesday, January 5. The newspaper has been publishing local, positive community news in the Southeastern Hillsborough County area since January 5, 2001, and we couldn’t have done it without the commitment and dedication of its readers and trusted advertisers. The Osprey Observer started out as a home-based business with a one-sheet newsletter and has grown into a corporation publishing more than 200 pages in five monthly editions with a team of more than 25 people. The main goal when we started was to make an impact on the local community. Our idea was to get involved and to make a difference in whatever ways we could. For our business, this has included the addition of videos, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and an active, archived website, along with the continuation of building our brand at events, festivals and with sponsorships in the community. We recently purchased a larger office space on Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico with room for team members to meet and run the day-to-day operations of the publication. As a community newspaper, we find that this is what sets us apart and keeps our readers interested as we cover the news. We are supported 100 percent by local small businesses who keep us a free community newspaper and allow us to print and mail our editions each month. Without the support of these business-
es, we wouldn’t have the staff to send to cover community events nor the community office to be the hub of local information. “My 16-year experience with the Osprey Observer has allowed me to integrate into my community in a very special way,” said Kerrie Hoening, FishHawk/ Bloomingdale and Valrico sales. “The connections I’ve made [have] allowed me to build lasting relationships and friendships that I might have otherwise never met. The heart of this team is to support our residents, our local businesses, our charitable organizations and our community, and I have been very proud to be a part of the Osprey Observer for these past 16 years.” In addition to concentrating on our main business, publishing newspapers that people read, we also have been active in our local chambers and encourage businesses to not just join but actually get involved and attend events. Just in the last year, we have been recognized for our community involvement in many ways. Managing Editor/Publisher Marie Gilmore was named the 2019 Citizen of the Year for Riverview and the Osprey Observer was named the Valrico/ FishHawk Chamber Business of the Year, Brandon Chamber Business of the Year and Riverview/Apollo Beach Chamber Small Business of the Year Finalist in 2019 and 2021. If it weren’t for our loyal readers and avid business supporters, we couldn’t do what we do in the community. So, from the Osprey Observer and Christian Voice team, thank you!
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
BRIDGES DENTAL HIRES NEWSOME HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE AND VALRICO NATIVE DR. DAU By Lily Belcher
to establish relationships with my patients and provide them with a service to improve their overall health and self-confidence.” Dau described the dedication Bridges Dental has to both their customers and employees. Dr. Laura Bridges, who owns the practice, is a working mom, like Dau, and prioritizes a healthy work-life balance in the office. Dau’s work-life balance is especially important because she has two toddlers with her husband, Brandon Waracksa, who is an economics teacher at Durant High School. Bridges was also raised in Valrico and attended Bloomingdale High School. Bridges wanted to continue to work in her hometown so she can Valrico native Dr. Caroline Dau graduated from serve her own community. Newsome High School and was eager to work in her “You know how you can walk into a hometown after going away for college. place and feel that everyone is happy In January, Newsome High School grad- to be there? I felt that way when I walked uate Dr. Caroline Dau started working for into Bridges Dental, and I knew I wantlocal dentist Bridges Dental in Valrico. Dau ed to be a part of that environment,” said was raised in Valrico and attended Randall Dau. Middle School before starting at NewDau has had many patients that have some. She left Florida to attend the Uni- been hesitant and scared to go to the denversity of Notre Dame, where she majored tist because of a bad experience they have in biology, and got her Doctorate in Dental had in the past. She said that their fear Science at the University of California. She is usually eased during their first appointwas eager to return to Florida and excited ment and that she treats each patient how to serve her hometown community as a she would treat one of her own family dentist. members. Dau first discovered her interest in sci“It is not easy to gain someone’s trust ence by watching Bill Nye the Science Guy and it isn’t something that I take lightly,” on PBS. She originally considered going she said. into research, but it lacked the human inFor more information on Bridges Denteraction she enjoyed in dentistry. tal, visit its website bridgesdental.com or “I really love being a dentist,” said Dau. contact 654-3399 or info@bridgesdental. “It brings me great satisfaction to be able com.
February 2022
TIME TO TOSS THE CLUTTER
By Bob Zoellner
when in reality we must get rid of the clutter first to make room for the truly important. We spend all of our time striving for the ‘stuff of life,’ but we forget to work on the ‘be of life.’ Unfortunately, we’ve become proTime to get rid of the clutter. grammed to be “Therefore, since we are surrounded busy. We don’t by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us like the thought intrusion of true self-rethrow off everything that hinders and the flection because we find ourselves lacking. sin that so easily entangles. And let us run Busyness numbs the uncomfortable conwith perseverance the race marked out for science prick. us...” (Hebrews 12:1, NIV). And we’re afraid. We fear loss more than Life is hard enough without intentionally we anticipate gain, so we hang on to the making it more difficult than it has to be. lesser we already have in lieu of the greater Jesus said that in this world we will have we could gain. And that brings chaos. Anxitrouble. Unfortunately, our sin nature wars ety. Depression. Frustration. within us, creating desires that are at odds Bottom line, we don’t trust our Father as with us living in a way that is pleasing to much as we say we do. God and allowing us to live in peace. The way to have more of what God deWe get caught in a cycle which creates sires for us is to get rid of the things that nothing more than busyness, yet not know- get in the way of those things that really ing how to get out of the chaos that a clut- matters. ter-filled life creates. In part of what is called the sermon on In Matthew 5, Jesus taught the disciples the mount, Jesus states that storing up what we have come to call the Beatitudes. treasure on earth is foolishness. Rather, we These are the ‘bes’ of the Christian life, should focus our lives on storing up treanot the ‘dos.’ Too often our lives become sure in heaven (see Matthew 6). That is all about the activity and accumulation of the only way to live in the peace that Jesus stuff and devolves into nothing more than promises. doing for the sake of doing, amassing a lot The apostle Paul told Timothy that “… of stuff but remaining bankrupt in spirit. Godliness with contentment is great gain,” We work too hard for what we think (I Timothy 6:6). we need, and especially for what we want, It’s time to declutter.
Volume 26 | Issue 02
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
RUSKIN LOCALS EXPAND THEIR COMPANY LATITUDES TOURS TO OFFER KAYAK AND BUS TOURS By Lily Belcher Latitudes Tours, a and cushioned five-star-rated comseating, among pany owned by Nanother amenities cy and Dave Lopez in offered on the Ruskin, offers locals boat. Guests will and tourists private, get to see wildlife, guided tours of the including dolphins Tampa Bay area. Its and manatees, tours include kayon most tours ak tours and boat aboard kayaks tours that take Latitude Tours expanded to include kayak and bus and The Island tours in addition to their boat tours last year. guests around the Vibes. Tampa Bay Estuary “Your tour beand into protected gins with a relaxareas to see sea life ing guided cruise and the nature surinto the Little Manrounding the bay. atee River, which is “Our kayak tours part of the Tampa are led by our lifeBay Estuary which guard, CPR and is teeming with first aid-certified diverse wildlife kayak guide Hailey. She’ll share her exten- dependent on the area,” explained Lopez. sive knowledge through an immersive ex- “You’ll also learn about our local history. perience as you glide through the water on Soon, the sun sinks over the horizon of the your own kayak. You’ll take an up-close and Gulf of Mexico, and you are treated to an personal journey through Tampa Bay Estu- unforgettable painted sky. You may even ary where you will see and interact with see dolphins frolicking alongside the boat.” the animals and nature you encounter,” Latitudes Tours offers lunch and sunsaid Nancy Lopez. set cruises that are perfect for birthday Guests can also ride their tour bus, that parties, anniversaries, or small wedding will take them to various land attractions, parties. In February, its boat tour will be including E.G. Simmons Regional Park and focused on couples with smaller rides of shops at St. Armands Cir. about 16 people for the two-and-a-halfDave started the company with his wife hour ride. Its Valentine’s Day tours feature in October of 2018 after being inspired by love songs, chocolate-covered strawberries their own experience with boat tours on and other small desserts and a sunset at vacation. They purchased a 36-foot boat, the end of the tour. The Island Vibes, to carry 24 passengers For more information or pricing, visit on fully narrated tours led by Captain Dave. latitudestours.com or email info@latiThe Island Vibes includes a sound system tudestours.com or call 641-1311.
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February 2022
THE KNOW MAGAZINE FEATURES TOP WOMEN OF THE COMMUNITY
By Libby Hopkins
Bernadett Pello
Do you know that our community is home to many KNOW Women? Do you know what KNOW Women are or how they become in the KNOW? KNOW is an ecosystem for high-achieving women. It is a global media company and community dedicated to amplifying the voices of female leaders, executives and entrepreneurs. “I wanted to become a part of KNOW because I knew a few women that were a part of KNOW and they had a good experience,” said Tampa Bay Market Manager of KNOW and Riverview resident. “I saw the publication and I knew the book was a quality product. I joined KNOW just prior to COVID. Like every other organization, in-person events did not happen. I participated in all of the virtual options KNOW offered. I was able to build relationships with women not just in my local community, not even just the Tampa Bay area, but in other states and in Canada. My experience, even with COVID, was amazing. The previous market manager moved into a corporate writing/publishing role. Sarah Benken, the founder/CEO, asked me if I was interested in interviewing, and here
Libby Hopkins
Liz Brewer
Above, Melissa Snively, Shannon Keil, Dr. Deborah Kish Johansen. Do you know that our community is home to many KNOW Women? KNOW is an ecosystem for high-achieving women. It is a global media company and community dedicated to amplifying the voices of female leaders, executives and entrepreneurs.
I am. It is a great opportunity.” Liz Brewer of the Angel Foundation in Brandon is a KNOW Woman. “I wanted to become part of the KNOW Women network because I want to surround myself with strong, professional women who
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continually inspire and challenge me to be the best woman I can be,” Brewer said. “I believe that when you have others to go to when struggling with life’s issues, you will be able to make wise decisions, especially in business. As a CEO, it can be lonely at the top. The ladies I network with allow me to be transparent without feeling inade-
Robin Stone
quate because they, too, often experiencing the same struggles.” Robin Stone is the owner of Legends Escape Rooms and Game Over Escape Rooms in Tampa. She is also a KNOW Woman. “I joined KNOW because of the incredible opportunities to promote female entrepreneurs,” Stone said. “Finding successful women that are like-minded is always beneficial and rewarding.” Rhonda McGrew is the co-founder and CEO of Elite Pediatric Healthcare. She too is a KNOW Woman. “I wanted to become a part of KNOW to connect with and collaborate with like-minded women who encourage, support and promote a high level of excellence in both business in community service,” McGrew said. “I, too, am a KNOW Woman. I joined because I wanted to connect with women in my community who want to lift other women up and help them to become successful.” If you would like to know more about KNOW Women or if you’d like to join our group, you can visit the KNOW website at www.theknowwomen.com.
Volume 26 | Issue 02
ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
Page 23
Celebrating 41 Years Serving our Community Thinking it’s time for a new roof? Do you think your roof may have wind damage? DO NOT REPLACE YOUR ROOF WITHOUT LETTING US TAKE A LOOK!
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ChristianVoiceMonthly.com
February 2022