UPCOMING EVENTS | BUSINESS | MY ROCK | LOCAL SPOTLIGHT | YOUR SALVATION | CONTRIBUTORS
OverflowMag.com January 2011
RICHARD HAYES tells it all...from business to cancer
Cloverton a band to watch!
Hope & Butterflies A STORY OF RENEWAL
A SERIES OF MIRACLES SAVES A TEENAGER’S LIFE
Surrendering to
GOD
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CONTENTS
EXPECTED 6 8 10 12 16 18 20 21 26 28 30
From the Editor Magnify Him Contributor Business Spotlight Salvation Feature Magnify Him Healthy Life Resources My Rock Events Local Churches
FEATURED 18
A Miracle from God
22
A Band to Watch: Cloverton
24
Hope Comes Gently
4
Seventeen year old Brittany tells how God saved her life through the gift of a kidney. An interview by Lisa Sapino of Joy FM.
A woman’s journey to a place of renewed hope through a butterfly farm.
OverflowMag.com Jan 2011
Beating the Odds with God
Richard Hayes, founder of Digital Lightbridge, shares his inspiring story of running a God-centered business and overcoming terminal cancer.
FROM THE EDITOR
January 2011, Volume 2 - Issue 1 ____________________________________ Editor | Amie Cherp amie@overflowmag.com Sales & Marketing | Chris Cherp chris@overflowmag.com Creative | Brady Wright brady@overflowmag.com Our cover story features a faithful man of God, Richard Hayes of Digital Lightbridge. Richard shares his journey of a miraculous recovery from “terminal” cancer and running a God-centered business. Learn more about his story in “Beating the Odds with God” on page 12.
Dear Friends, Now that Christmas is over and the New Year has begun, I find this to be a great time of renewal and reflection on this past year. Overflow has appreciated the wonderful response from our community and enjoys hearing how God has used His magazine to touch the lives of many. We have overcome several challenges this past year, and we are moving forward in faith. We believe this will be an exciting year. The team enjoyed attending the Brandon Foundation’s Evening of Hope in November, which raised funds for their Angel Program. Overflow talked with Abby of Spirit FM and met Christian Artist, Beckha Shae. We always like to hear what’s going on in the Tampa Bay area, so let us know at events@overflowmag.com.
The New Year is a great time to change some unhealthy habits in our lives. Like every New Year, we have the opportunity to start fresh. I encourage you to read “Making Choices in the New Year,” by Casio Jones on page 20. If you are ready to make the most important decision you can ever make, take a look at our salvation page on 16. Choose to make Jesus the King of your heart and this will be your best year yet. In “Hope Comes Gently,” Leslie Shepherd depicts a woman’s renewed hope as God used butterflies to change her life (see page 24). This inspiring story reminds us that God has prepared a way for us and His path is always the greatest. No matter where we are in our lives, He will always guide us to greater heights if we just trust in Him. This January, let’s reflect on all the blessings God has bestowed upon us and find ways to give back. Thanksgiving and Christmas are not the only times when there are people in need. Let’s show God’s love to Tampa Bay in a mighty way this 2011! Happy New Year! In His Love,
In November, we welcomed our newest team member to Overflow; I gave birth to my second child, a baby girl. It reminded me how God gives us such a special gift of life and how precious it really is. In this month’s feature Magnify Him, Brittany Hutchinson describes just how much life means to her in “A Miracle from God” on page 18.
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Amie Cherp
Creative | Amanda Wright amanda@overflowmag.com Contributing Writer | Tommy Burrus Photography | Stephen T Photography Intern | Alexandra Downing ____________________________________ How To Reach Us: 27251 SR 54, Suite B14-605 Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 813-915-6700 Phone 813-463-0275 Fax Submissions: magnify@overflowmag.com General Info Inquiry: contact@overflowmag.com Subscribe: Visit www.OVERFLOWmag.com and click the subscribe button on the homepage Event Submission: If you would like to add an upcoming event to our calendar, please submit the event name, date(s), time(s), location(s), & a short description of the event to: events@overflowmag.com Advertising and Distribution: If you are a business or church and think advertising to over 35,000 Christians is awesome, please contact: Chris Cherp | chris@overflowmag.com Overflow Magazine is published monthly by Eternal Holdings LLC, a Florida limited liability company, d/b/a Overflow Magazine. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced or copied in any form without prior written permission from a representative of Overflow Magazine. We cannot be held responsible for statements made by advertisers or contributing writers; however, we do make every effort to ensure the accuracy and truthfulness of the information we print. Overflow Magazine cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors made by advertisers and/or contributing writers. All images, written work, photographs, e-mails and letters sent to Overflow Magazine will be allocated for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted rights to edit. Overflow Magazine is distributed free of charge to local supermarkets, churches, businesses, family events and other locations around the Tampa Bay area. For information on where to find Overflow Magazine or if you would like to become a distributor, please call 813-915-6700 or e-mail contact@ overflowmag.com.
© 2009-2010 Eternal Holdings LLC. All rights reserved. Photo Credits: ©iStockphoto.com/sdominick, p. 3; ©iStockphoto.com/juanestey, p. 8; ©iStockphoto.com/RichVintage, p. 9; ©iStockphoto.com/hjalmeida, p. 10; ©iStockphoto. com/Irochka_T, p. 11; ©iStockphoto.com/Photoevent, p. 20.
MAGNIFY HIM SUBMITTED BY YOU!
Psalm 54:6 (NKJV)
“...I will praise Your name, O LORD, for it is good.”
Press into Him
On a Thursday, I began reading The Laws of Prosperity by Kenneth Copeland. It was a slow read because I wanted to chew on the words and discern the fullness of the message. The devil immediately came against me. By Friday at 10:00 a.m. $11,000 of my income flew out the window due to lost real estate contracts. Since I recently incurred $5,000 of expenses in addition to my regular bills, it was devastating. I turned my stereo on to listen to some Christian music. I spent time in the Word and I continued to read the book. I also pressed into our Father in meditation. Saturday I was distraught over my situation. I tried mightily to keep my focus on Him, but it was overwhelming. A Christian neighbor prayed for me and counseled me to listen to Him. The Lord spoke and I was obedient. I also spent time in prayer with a Christian brother. Sunday after church I held an open house for one of the properties [I am the listing agent for] that previously had a contract cancelled. I spent three hours in this house with no air-conditioning in 100 degree weather. I took the book and my Bible with me hoping to continue in my reading. I barely got the opportunity to read because of the buyer traffic coming into the home! I praised God for each visitor. On Monday I continued reading the book. I was also reading 2 Peter 3 when the phone rang. It was an offer coming in! I continued to mediate on the Word. I was then reading Psalm 112 and another phone call came in with another offer. I read Proverbs 14 and the phone rang yet again with another offer. I know that only by the grace of God all of this could happen. I praised God and gave Him all the glory. I was swamped with miscellaneous tasks regarding these blessed contracts, so I took a break to read my online Bible. Then an overseas buyer called for counsel and information. By 6:00 p.m. on Monday (only a few days later) almost all of the lost income was replaced with new contracts. All three contracts were cash buyers. Thank you Jesus! >>> Susan, Tampa
My Miracle Child
When I found out that I was pregnant with a child that would be born with a disability (spina bifida & hydrocephalus) and would never be able to walk, a child that doctors didn’t expect to live more than 24 hours after birth, I was given the option to have an abortion. I chose to carry my child to term and love him no matter what. When Eric was born, the doctors gave up on him and the plug was pulled. Eric continued to fight because he knew that God had a plan for him. I was told that Eric wouldn’t recognize his family, he would remain in a vegetative state, and he would never be able to do anything on his own. In the beginning, it was a struggle to care for him, but I never complained. The doctors kept giving Eric one short life expectancy after another, and as each year passed he proved their diagnoses to be wrong. Last July, Eric celebrated his 17th birthday. He knows everyone by name; he knows phone numbers by heart, and he feeds himself. Eric is a senior in high school and will be graduating with the Class of 2011. He has an unbreakable bond with his younger brother, who was raised to love a person based on their inside and not their outer appearance. We are so blessed to have Eric in our lives and we wouldn’t trade him for the world. >>> N. C., Highland M.B. Church
Trust in the Lord
Like many others, my husband and I have been struggling financially through this difficult economy. Living in a townhome, we quickly outgrew it because we rescue Dachshunds. We are now up to 7! Our dream was to give them a backyard to play in. Since we weren’t ready to purchase a home, we searched for a long-term rental in the Tampa area. Though, we faced an issue - what we wanted was just slightly out of our price range and the fees to move into a home are very steep. Frustrated and scared, we hit our knees. Things got worse before they got better. However, when we wait for the Lord, the outcome is better than what we could have imagined! A friend and client from work mentioned that they were trying to rent their home. We got to talking and one thing led to the next, and we moved into what could very well be our dream home. The match was made in Heaven. They expressed their appreciation to us and vice versa. What a blessing to be such a part of God’s plan. God did this for us. He walks us through life directing us to trust Him. When we do, it is always worth it! >>> J. J., Tampa
Visit OverflowMag.com to SUBMIT your God Story and tell our community what He has done in your life.
Faith in God
My cat Ruby was playing in the fenced backyard and somehow got out. My daughter and I searched for her in the big community where we live. Ruby was a first anniversary gift from my husband. When he got her for me, I was feeling lonely because I had left India and my parents to be with my husband in Florida. My family and I love Ruby very much and we are all attached to her. Ruby is an inside cat and it was a very cold night, so we were praying for her while she was missing. I also emailed my friends to pray for us to find Ruby. With the intercession of our prayers, God granted us a miracle. After many hours, my husband finally found Ruby jumping from a little tree in our community. He was praying while he was looking for Ruby. My husband realized that it was not in his control; it was in God’s hands to help him find Ruby. I believe God answered our prayers. Thank You Jesus for everything You do in our lives and for hearing our prayers and bringing Ruby home safely. “[I]n everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18, NKJV). >>> S.T., Valrico
I Once Was Lost...But Now I Am Found!
Growing up I had a great childhood. My parents were missionaries and I was always in church. We went through a time when we had no money, and I started to get very rebellious. I was skipping school, drinking, smoking pot, and often cutting myself. I never cut myself deep enough to really do any damage; I think I just wanted someone to see that I was hurting. After some time my father moved us to North Carolina. Things were going really good until I turned 18. I came home one day and found out that my parents were getting divorced. The pain I felt was so deep. I was mad at everyone, even God. I turned my back on the world, and on my 18th birthday I had a decision to make. A friend asked me if I wanted to try some cocaine. I wanted something to take away the pain that was inside, so I said, “Yes.” I used it as much as I could for about a year. I tried to clean up, and I was successful, but for only 9 months. Then when I was with a group of friends one day, they had some meth. It ruled my life for over 2 years. During this time I was in an unstable, abusive relationship. I was using meth every day and made some bad choices to support my habit. Sometime later I became pregnant and I couldn’t stop using. I used drugs throughout my whole pregnancy. I didn’t see a doctor until I was six months pregnant because I was so scared they would find out. My doctor visits consisted of going to the hospital and telling them that something was wrong just so they would hook me up to the monitor. When the day came to give birth, I was so frightened. My son was born perfect and not a single thing was wrong with him. Glory to GOD! When they did a drug test on both of us…it came out negative. When I left the hospital with my baby in my arms I knew God had a plan.
Unfortunately I couldn’t stop using right away, and my parents took my son. Eventually I hit rock bottom, which is when I started using heroin. I always said I would never use a needle, so when it happened I knew I had gone too far. My mother told me that if I wanted to see my son I would have to go to Celebrate Recovery at Highland Park Church in Lakeland. So I went. God showed up in a mighty way! I could feel Him! I knew that I was coming to a place where I could just be me. I didn’t have to wear a “mask” and that felt so good. Once I committed myself to this program, and of course to God, my life totally changed. I got my son back within a few months. I am now leading a women’s step study, I’m on the prayer team, and I picked up a 1 year chip! God has changed my life forever. He has put a desire in my heart to help people who felt like I once felt - hopeless – and to let them know there is a God who can and will set them free. I know if He did that for me, He can and will for anyone! I am not “fixed,” but I thank God for that because that keeps me relying on Him every day. It’s amazing what God can do if you just start looking up! I praise God every day for what He brought me through because it’s a fact that I shouldn’t be here today. I should have been dead many times. I thank Him for my son every time I see him smile. God has truly blessed me. All we need is a little hope and that’s what He gives us. Thank you Jesus for breaking the chains and setting this captive free. I will forever be your servant. I am a new creation! >>> C.K., Highland Park Church of the Nazarene
Jan 2011 Love+Faith+Hope
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CONTRIBUTORS BUSINESS
Give Up, To Go Up >>> BY JOHN FAULKNER
S
nap, crackle, pop… I hear it every morning but it’s not at breakfast. It’s the sound my body makes when I wake up and get out of bed. My eyes that were once good enough to win a sharpshooter award in the Marines have deteriorated so much that I would have trouble hitting a cow with a banjo! My wife complains that I can’t hear much anymore, but that’s more tactical than anything else. Maybe if I hadn’t spent four years in the Marine Corps, all of this would be easier to accept. Although it’s hard to acknowledge the fact that I’m falling apart like this, at least it’s explainable—things wear out. The fact that I’ve treated my body like a rental has just expedited the process. Unlike my body, my mind hasn’t deteriorated as fast. The problem is that everybody around me just happened to get a whole lot smarter. I’ve managed to hold on to most of the real estate between my ears and maybe even learned a few things in the last couple of years (most of which was taught to me by my kid). At least most of the young people that I interact with haven’t figured out yet that when I shake my head yes, I have no idea what they’re talking about. Most of us have enjoyed times when our minds and our bodies have worked together like a well-oiled machine. This balance between brain and brawn makes us feel invincible. As believers, we often look back at this period and wonder if we’ve missed our opportunity to fulfill God’s purpose for our lives. God’s Word provides the answer to our question in 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV): “But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’…” These are the words given to Paul from the Lord concerning the request he had made for Him to remove the “thorn from his flesh.” While we don’t know exactly what the burden was, one could assume that it was more than Paul could handle on his own. Although the first half of this verse is the one most quoted, the second half holds the keys to the practical
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application. “Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest upon me.” Paul understood that by acknowledging his weaknesses and sharing them with others, he was surrendering those things that would otherwise become roadblocks to fulfilling God’s purpose. Could it be that the things that we hold on to the tightest are the same things that become the thorns in our flesh later? Through the act of “surrender,” we recognize our weaknesses and give them to God. Surrendering is foundational to developing a closer walk with Christ. As our faith grows, the desire to hold on to things that have defined us up to this point will be lessened. “He must become greater, I must become less” (John 3:30, NIV). These were the words of John the Baptist as he acknowledged that someone else would be calling the shots from then on. By embracing the act of surrender, John fulfilled his purpose in Christ. Finding and maintaining your purpose will bring forth many challenges. For many of us, those challenges will find us at the workplace. Day after day we show up and put our time, talent, and our tenacity to the test. Like a lot of things, what we bring to the table today might not be good enough for tomorrow. Eventually someone may come along and make the tasks you struggle with look simple. Knowing and acknowledging when God is moving us from one season to the next will not only be instrumental in fulfilling our purpose, but helping others fulfill theirs. It is through our surrender to God that allows our purpose while on earth to be filled. There will come a day when God will decide that we have experienced our last season here on earth. While we might not be taken home like Elijah in a fiery chariot of glory, wouldn’t it be nice to leave this earth with nothing left to surrender?
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Beating the Odds with God >>>BY AMANDA WRIGHT
“For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world–our faith.” (1 John 5:4, NKJV)
T
he world brings obstacles across our paths, but the way we choose to face these obstacles truly defines our character and heart. Richard Hayes, founder of Digital Lightbridge, beat the odds in business and in his health by staying faithful to God, despite difficulties along the way. His story is inspiring and reiterates God’s promises to those who put Him first. Richard’s journey has not been easy, but he is thankful to God for the precious blessings in his life.
Direction from the Lord Richard started his first marketing business while attending college for a degree in architecture. One of his professors pointed out that he was already doing what he wanted to do and questioned why he was studying architecture. Richard took that to heart and when he graduated he decided to go into marketing full time. He worked for various advertising agencies and marketing firms until 2001. Richard had been in prayer every day asking God for direction in his life. One morning, God answered. He told Richard to start a ministry business and call it “Digital Lightbridge.” At first Richard thought he was crazy and wasn’t sure he really heard that from God. Later that evening he talked to his wife Lisa about it and she unexpectedly said, “That’s exactly what we need to do.” In April of 2001 Richard took a leap of faith and started Digital Lightbridge. “The first day I really had no plan,” he said. “I had a computer, a cell phone, and a tiny little office.” Richard’s first project was for a friend in ministry that needed marketing materials for a banquet. The work was pro bono but he wasn’t worried. Then, later that day, a friend from church called. She worked for a large bank and had a job for him… that paid. “Every day for almost 10 years has been exactly like that,” Richard said. Today about one third of Digital Lightbridge’s projects are pro bono for ministries and churches. This is the formula that God gave Richard from the beginning and he has continued to be faithful to it.
Digital Lightbridge Digital Lightbridge is a strategic marketing firm. “The big idea is helping our clients develop their brand, which is more than a logo.
It’s starting with their values, helping them identify their mission and vision and then creating marketing materials to support that,” Richard explained. “We’ve had clients tell us that we help them see their business in a way that their customers see it and we’re able to sometimes change their culture, change the way they sell, and the way they deliver their services to their clients.” Digital Lightbridge provides a wide range of services to businesses, ministries, and churches, which includes strategic planning, content development, corporate branding design, consulting, social media marketing, sales materials, brochures, and much more. Some notable clients are the JOY FM, Life Impact Network, Trinity College, Family First, All Pro Dad, and iMom. The vision and mission of Digital Lightbridge is simple, according to Richard. “The short answer is to glorify God [and] to utilize talents that He’s given me for churches, ministries, and businesses.” The amazing thing about this marketing firm is that they devote a significant amount of time and energy to help many nonprofit organizations. They put forth the same effort on a project whether the client is paying or not. God is honoring what they are doing at Digital Lightbridge and that is why they continue to grow and thrive in a down economy. The business moved from downtown Tampa to New Port Richey four years ago. The new property had a large sign out in front of the building that wasn’t needed. Instead of tearing it down, Richard decided to make it a channel letter sign (similar to what churches use for messages). Richard wanted the ability to put up Scripture and other messages to people passing by. Today it says “Trust in the Lord Forever.” Richard commented, “A lot of homeless people around here think we’re a church because of the sign. They come in and ask to see the pastor.” Instead of turning these people away and explaining they are not a church, Digital Lightbridge bought backpacks and filled them with food, water, towels, toothbrushes, t-shirts, a Bible, and information on ministries that can help these individuals. Digital Lightbridge strives to be more than a business - they endeavor to use their gifts and resources to serve God.
Opportunities to Overcome On March 10, 2010 Richard went into the hospital for a surgery to remove what his doctor believed was a small tumor in his parotid gland on the left side of his face. He was informed that there was a 98% chance that the tumor was not cancerous. When Richard’s doctor opened him up he found that the tumor was actually cancer, and it had spread beyond what they originally thought. The incision was very large and the doctor had to remove Richard’s facial nerve. On March 23rd Richard had to undergo a second surgery – a neck dissection – to remove 75 lymph nodes and an additional cancerous tumor. Due to his facial nerve being removed, Richard was unable to close his eyelid on his own. Less than a week later he had a
Jan 2011 Love+Faith+Hope
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third surgery to put a weight in his eyelid so it would close properly. A few weeks after the third surgery, he began radiation and chemotherapy which lasted about two months. Radiation was five days per week and chemo was one day per week. He was told he would be sick from the treatments and need a feeding tube. “That didn’t happen,” Richard said. “It was a miracle.” On the day of the second surgery the Lord spoke to Richard and said, “I want you to tell people about what’s going on.” Richard was hesitant because he and his wife are very private people. However, he was obedient and asked a friend to help him set up a blog to chronicle what was happening during his treatment. You can find it at www.RichardWHayes.WordPress.com. He talked about his journey, details about the treatment, his walk with God throughout the whole process, and his diagnosis of Stage IV Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (CxPA). On May 17, 2010, Richard had another opportunity to overcome. An elderly man passed out behind the wheel of his car and hit the accelerator. He went across six lanes of traffic and ran directly into Digital Lightbridge’s office. When he crashed through the wall, he hit the couch which pushed through another wall into Robin (Digital Lightbridge’s Controller) while she was sitting at her desk working. Richard explained that she was directly in the path of the car. By God’s grace, she was not harmed. The Lord’s protection was over the building and the people in it. That same day, volunteers came to help clear the debris and temporary walls were constructed. The office was repaired within a few months, making the space beautiful and functional again.
God’s Divine Intervention Throughout the process of his surgeries, treatments, and office reconstruction, Richard stayed strong in faith and believed that God was in control. Instead of worrying, Richard put his energy into seeking God more fervently during this difficult time. God showed up in a big way and Digital Lightbridge continued to prosper. “You see so many businesses every day closing their doors and barely getting by day to day. For
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six months I haven’t even been here and it’s growing with new projects all the time,” Richard shared. Some of his C-12 friends (a group of Christian business owners) came together and offered to form a board of directors to help Richard manage the business while he was in treatment. This helped Richard and Digital Lightbridge maintain their level of excellence and service to their clients. In late August Richard went in for several tests: a PET scan, a CAT scan, and blood work to find out the effects of his treatments. Previously, Richard had learned that the type of cancer he was diagnosed
with is very rare. “We started having conversations with my doctor, surgeon, and oncologist and they said, literally, no one has ever survived this type of stage IV cancer,” Richard explained. He started doing internet research about his cancer and everything said stage IV was terminal. He could not find any survival data. “Through the blog and all kinds of other means, we started getting people to pray for us,” he said. Richard also described his wife as “an incredible woman of prayer,” and explained that she has been an awesome discerner of things throughout their marriage. Lisa and his sons (Chandler, Mitchell, and Tristan) kept his spirits high.
Then on August 30, 2010 Richard and his wife went in for the test results. Richard shared that they had been waiting a little while when he heard the nurse put the chart on the door. He jumped up and grabbed it. “We started flipping through it and right there in front of it they had the report,” Richard said.” The report showed that every part of his body was clear. He put the report back and the doctor came in. His doctor read through the chart and said, “You’re not in remission; you’re just cancer-free.” God performed a miracle and healed Richard of a terminal cancer in less than six months. “God did it,” Richard said. “I’m absolutely positive that He did it.”
DIGITAL LIGHTBRIDGE RECENT WORK
PROJECT: 33Hope.com WORK: brand, communications strategy & website
PROJECT: TheJoyFM.com WORK: website & online communications strategy
God-Centered With all that Richard went through in 2010, we wanted him to share what Scriptures he continually stands on. He replied, “John 15, which is all about abiding. That has been the theme for this year - abiding in Christ.” He also mentioned Psalm 100, and specifically about thankfulness: “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name” (Psalm 100:4, NKJV). When obstacles and trials come, the first thing we need to do is run to God with praise and thanks and He will see us through to the other side. Richard demonstrated this to those around him, and through his story, God’s mercy and goodness is magnified for all to see. When asked what advice he would give to other Christian business owners and ministry leaders, Richard’s response came as no surprise. He suggested daily quiet time with the Lord to get the assignment for the day. Devotion and prayer time are very important in starting the day. He also mentioned that having a group of godly advisors is invaluable. These people can give you insight and direction even if they are not in the same type of business.
PROJECT: TrinityCollege.edu WORK: brand & website
PROJECT: Pharmaworks.com WORK: brand & website
PROJECT: AllProDad.com WORK: brands, social media strategy
PROJECT: BuddyBrew.com WORK: brand & website
& websites
Ultimately, God needs to be the center of your life, business, and ministry. With God all things are possible. You can beat the odds in this world with God on your side. Seek Him first and He will bless you and everything you put your hand to. Press On!
Jan 2011 Love+Faith+Hope
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SALVATION
J
esus is often referred to as the Lord of lords and King of kings because He conquered it all, even death. This wonderful King and Son of God loved us so much that He died to wash away our sins. He rose again to reign at the right hand of the Father in Heaven. Jesus said in John 15:9 (NKJV), “As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love.” Jesus came to save us and to capture our hearts for God. The “King of Hearts” wants to bring you into a relationship with God. Your past makes no difference. There is nothing you could have done that would stop His love for you. Will you receive this special gift and let Jesus rule your heart? Say this prayer aloud: Father God, I come before you in the Name of Jesus. Your Word says, “Whosoever shall call on the Name of the Lord shall be saved” (Acts 2:21, KJV) and “if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9, NKJV). Father God, I believe your Word is truth and I stand on it now. Please forgive me for all my sins and unrighteousness. Today I make Jesus my Lord and Savior and I believe God raised Him from the dead, and He is seated at the right hand of the Father in Heaven. Father I ask that you fill me with your Holy Spirit to guide and teach me as I walk this earth and grow spiritually (Luke 11:13; Luke 12:12). I thank You for making a place for me in Your Kingdom, please guide me in the direction that will eternally please You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Revelation 1:5 (BBE) “And from Jesus Christ, the true witness, the first to come back from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who had love for us and has made us clean from our sins by His blood.”
MAGNIFY HIM SUBMITTED BY YOU!
A MIRACLE FROM GOD SUBMITTED BY: BRITTANY HUTCHINSON
I
am seventeen years old and a senior at Wiregrass Ranch High School in Wesley Chapel. I recently had a kidney transplant in August 2010 at Tampa General Hospital. Having the kidney transplant is truly a miracle and a gift of life. I feel as if God has given me a new chance and lease on life. Beginning at the age of eight, I was treated for high blood pressure and was prescribed blood pressure medicine to take daily. In the summer of 2009, I attended a law course at the American University. While I was there, I began feeling very weak and tired. Upon returning to Tampa I noticed I was retaining a lot of fluid, and I was gaining a significant amount of weight. My parents took me to my primary care doctor, and he explained that I was just experiencing stress from being away for 10 days. However, my symptoms worsened and I began getting chest pains and weakness in my muscles. I went in for blood work in early October 2009 and my labs were sent to a Nephrologist. I remember the day vividly; my Nephrologist called during the afternoon and told my father to rush me to the Pediatric ICU immediately. Evidently my blood work was showing that my electrolyte levels were severely imbalanced, and I was pretty much a dead person walking.
to wait on the transplant list for 2 months. People on the transplant list can wait for as long as 5 years. While I was waiting, I remember praying to God constantly asking Him to help provide me with a blessing and complete healing. My desire was to receive a kidney before attending college. I wasn’t sure how being on dialysis would work while going to college. God always has a plan, and His plan is truly perfect. I received the kidney transplant and now I am getting ready to attend college in Fall 2011. My patience and faith has truly helped me through this process. From that special day in August, the transplant has been nothing but a blessing. I wake up thanking God every day for my donor, doctors, nurses, family, friends, and for my life. The support and prayers of my family, friends, and pastors has helped me significantly throughout this whole journey. It feels so great not being hooked up to a machine at night anymore; I feel free! It’s as if the heavy load of bricks is finally lifted off of my shoulders as well as my family’s. I’m able to do all that I was able to do before. If it weren’t for my donor and her choice to donate her organs, I wouldn’t be here today living such a wonderful life. This gift of life is truly remembered and forever appreciated.
“There were many days I felt like giving up, but I knew God had a purpose for me, and that purpose was to live!”
After being in the hospital for a few days, I was diagnosed with renal failure. It was a complete shock to me and my family. I had to go on dialysis every night for nine hours, which drastically changed my life. It was certainly a struggle for me because I am a teenager in high school, and I love to have fun with my family and friends. I was physically tired due to the dialysis and missed several days of school. I was not able to hang out with friends like I had before; this meant no more sleepovers with my girlfriends. It also made traveling difficult for my family. There were many days I felt like giving up, but I knew God had a purpose for me, and that purpose was to live! I was placed on the transplant list in June 2010. Doctors told me that because of my age it would take longer for me to receive a kidney than a younger patient. This never weakened my faith in God. My family, friends, and I continued to believe a miracle would take place in my life. Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) is a scripture that kept me going strong and believing in God’s Word. It says: “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” On August 25, 2010, my family and I got a call in the early hours of the morning from my Nephrologist. She told us that they had a kidney for me. I felt like I was in a dream we all did. It is uncommon for a person my age to only have
I don’t think people are aware of how many individuals are in need of an organ and/or tissue transplant. I have become an advocate for LifeLink (if you would like to learn more about this organization visit www.lifelinkfound.org). I speak at events and share my story to possible donors and donor families. Going through this whole experience has inspired me to change my career goal from becoming a lawyer to a renal transplant coordinator. When I wake up in the morning as well as throughout the day I say, “The healing power of God is working in me right now.’’ I also recite this inspirational verse for each day: “This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24, NIV). Each morning when I open my eyes I am reminded of how great my God is. If you are interested in becoming a registered donor, please call LifeLink at (800)262-5775 or visit Donate Life Florida’s website at www.donatelifeflorida.org. Organ and tissue donors save many lives by giving the ultimate gift of life!
Jan 2011 Love+Faith+Hope
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HEALTHY LIFE
Choices in the New Year! >>> BY CASIO JONES
D
id you know 70-80% of all chronic diseases are due to lifestyle choices? I have always wondered why this high percentage does not encourage people to make better choices in order to reduce the risk of these destructive diseases. From the beginning of time, God gave man the freedom of choice - we can choose to serve and love Him or not. If we live a life outside of God’s will, we live a life of despair with no purpose. This truth can be applied to our health as well. God has a perfect way for us to live and it’s a life full of joy and health. However, we must allow Him to change our hearts and minds about how we live.
Instead of focusing on getting into a smaller pants size or focusing on a high school reunion later this year, why not focus on living a healthier life to honor your Father in Heaven? When we seek God first and His righteousness, everything else will fall in place, including our health. “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33, NIV).
“Choose to live a healthier life for Christ.”
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:1-2, NIV).
You see, we are called to be different from the rest of the world. God has given all of us a role to fulfill. We each have talents and gifts to use to glorify our Lord and Savior. Our health plays an important part in our ability to complete our purpose! “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9, NIV).
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You have a choice to make this year. Choose to live a healthier life for Christ! Ask the Lord to give you wisdom and passion to seek out His truth and healthy ways of living. When Jesus Christ is the center of your life, your attitude changes, thus changing your behavior. Casio Jones, “The Body Evangelist,” has over 20 years in the health and fitness ministry. To learn more, go to www.action65.com or e-mail casio@casiojones.com. Action is the key for life! Pray more, Move more, Love more and Enjoy more!
Psalm 1:2 (NKJV)
RESOURCES
“But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night.”
FOR YOUR SPIRIT
Luke’s Story The Jesus Chronicles
Tim LaHaye & Jerry B. Jenkins “This biblically inspired novel tells the story of Luke - the Gospel writer whose belief was built on the power of faith alone. Luke, who hadn’t met Jesus, is skeptical of His miracles, until events in his own life irreversibly change him. Pledging himself to Christ, he begins a Gospel based on the conversion stories of believers and interviews those who knew Him best - the disciples who spent 3 years with Jesus, and His mother, Mary.”
Audrey Assad The House You’re Building www.AudreyAssad.com
Find it at:
www.TimLaHaye.com
Chris Tomlin
And if Our God is for Us... www.ChrisTomlin.com
Little Jesus Freaks This is “a Christian parenting blog community for parents trying to raise their little ones up to be the next generation of Christ followers (aka...Jesus Freaks!). We hope you [will] join us to share your stories and life lessons and fellowship with us through the wonderful journey known as parenthood!”
Find it at: www.LittleJesusFreaks.com
The Afters
Light Up the Sky www.TheAfters.com
Billy
The Early Years of Billy Graham Solex Productions/A Robby Benson Film Rated PG “Most of us know Billy Graham as the self-assured and charismatic preacher who became one of the most important figures of 20th Century Christianity. Now, with the release of Billy: The Early Years, we meet Billy as the earnest and promising young man at the crossroads of faith and doubt, ultimately facing the moment of decision that launched one of history’s most powerful evangelistic careers.”
Mat Kearney City of Black & White www.MatKearney.com
Find it at: www.BillyTheEarlyYears.com Jan 2011 Love+Faith+Hope
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THE JOY FM
A Band to Watch: Cloverton >>> AN INTERVIEW BY LISA SAPINO
Cloverton - a band from Manhattan, Kansas - was on the Music Boat this past November. They performed at an industry reception aboard The Majesty of the Seas. They sounded like they were rooted in worship music and the lead singer, Lance, sounded like a “Mac Powell, Jr.” Cloverton is going to be one of those bands that you just won’t be able to forget.
Website:
www.ClovertonMusic.com
Social Media:
www.MySpace.com/Cloverton
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LISA SAPINO: So how does Lance feel about being compared to Mac Powell? CLOVERTON: …Yeah, we hear that quite a bit. It is probably due to a small Third Day obsession growing up. It’s quite a compliment though. He’s got a pretty unique style/voice.
stayed on a street called “Clovernook.” A few months later, we had to choose a name before showcasing the next day in Nashville before industry. After a little altering, Clover“ton” was thrown into a hat along with a couple other names. Cloverton was the name that got pulled out, and it’s been with us ever since.
Your songs are dynamic piano-driven tunes with beautifully written lyrics. Who writes most of the songs? Our music and lyrics are written by Lance, including the songs on our first demo that we recorded a couple years ago. He’ll bring the songs in to practice and we’ll layer in the guitar and drum parts accordingly. It’s all a process.
How did you meet and come together as a band? (Lance responding) I was serving as the worship pastor of a brand new church plant in Manhattan, KS. My twin brother, Layne (bass), followed shortly thereafter. We had actually met Tim (lead guitar) through a college worship gathering and had him come and play drums on occasion. A few months into the life of the church, Matt (guitar) started attending/playing on the church worship team and called a former high school classmate of his, Kirby (drums), to fill in when we were without a drummer. A few years later, we began to collectively pursue the band outside of just Sunday worship gatherings.
Tell me how you came up with the name “Cloverton.” For the longest time, we didn’t really have a name. In fact, when we were recording our first EP in Nashville, we didn’t even have a name and our producer joked about recording a band without a name. That week, we
You all seem to come out of highly musical families and backgrounds. Is that true? (Lance responding) All of us have had different exposure to music growing up. [As for me and Layne, our] dad was an elementary music teacher. He also taught piano lessons and directed the church choir, so we were constantly around music. Tim comes from a family of musicians. His dad actually sold Layne his first 5-string bass! Matt’s uncle operates a Christian radio station in Manhattan, so Matt’s exposure to Christian music has been timeless. Kirby’s parents were both actively involved in choir, which doesn’t at all explain why Kirby became a self-start drummer. You won the national Embassy Music Talent Search during Gospel Week in Nashville. Tell me about it. Was that what launched the band? Before we were even called Cloverton, Lance secretly took a trip to Nashville in 2008 for an Embassy Music Talent Search and Seminar during GMA Week. He went alone, hoping to get an unbiased opinion on some of his music. After winning both the songwriting and performance categories at the event, Lance returned home to share the news with the rest of the band. From there, the band was connected to a producer in Nashville and [we] recorded Cloverton’s first project, a self-titled 5 song EP…. Tell me how you guys like touring, and have you been picked up for a major tour yet? (Lance responding) Meeting people and hearing their stories is something that we cherish a great deal when out on the road. It’s one thing to read someone’s story; it’s an entirely different thing to hear it face to face. It helps us to connect our stories with their stories. This past summer, we were on the road quite a bit for the Hope Inside Tour. We mapped out, booked, and headlined the tour. The tour name came from our radio single “Hope Inside” in which we partnered with World Vision to continue to generate financial assistance to the victims of the earthquakes in Haiti. That’s the biggest tour we’ve been on to date. (Matt responding) We all share a deep passion for the Lord and music, and it is a privilege/honor to tour across the country and to share those things with others. We were actually discussing a couple
weeks ago that we are blessed to be doing something that we love and get to see a bunch of the country that a “normal” job would not necessarily offer. When is your first album being released and how can we buy your music now? Right now, the 5 songs from our first project are found on iTunes and Amazon. We’ve been in the studio this fall with Paul Ebersold and are still working on the new record. The single “Take Me Into the Beautiful” should be coming out near the beginning of the year.
If you had to give a short statement about why Cloverton exists as a band, what would it be? We exist to reclaim music and creativity as an instrument for reaching all of God’s creation. Music can be such a common ground for people of differing beliefs. We want to expose people to the Truth through messages and melodies that will ultimately point people to Him.
CONTRIBUTORS
Hope Comes Gently
>>> BY LESLIE SHEPHERD
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” (2 Corinthians 5:17, KJV)
I
t is often that our deepest despair brings forth the most genuine cries of our heart. Perhaps, the painful descent has been so gradual that at first we are surprised to find ourselves in a miry pit without answers and without hope. Fortunately, our heavenly Father readily receives our raw, honest prayers. In Isaiah 65:24 (NASB), listen to what the Lord Himself tells us: “It will also come to pass that before they call, I will answer; and while they are still speaking, I will hear.” With a heart for God, Rhonda Stephens cannot remember a time that creative pursuits were not a part of her life. She longed for the opportunity to use her God-given talents in a profession. In the mid-nineties, as a wife and mother of a young daughter, Rhonda found herself in the
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desperate and lonely place of diminished hope. On the outside, she appeared to be happily going about her busy life caring for her family, involved in her church, and successful at her job as a mail carrier for the U. S. Post Office. Inside, however, a private struggle raged over unfulfilled dreams and dormant talents. It had not yet occurred to her that God could help her find His will for her life. “I never hesitated to go to God for important things like the care and wellbeing of my family and friends, but when it came to my job, I did not want to bother Him with something that I thought was up to me,” Rhonda said. She recalled a turning point that came out of complete desperation, and led to a simple,
humble prayer. “I gave my sense of longing to God, and asked for His help in finding a new, creative work for my hands.” The peace that had eluded her for so long settled into her spirit, and His gentle answer would soon come to her on the wings of a butterfly. I first met with Rhonda to talk about her story at her greenhouse. A wood frame structure enclosed with screen, the greenhouse is home to milkweed, red penta, golden dew drop, and other host and nectar plants. As we approached the wooden screened door, I saw the shapes of many flowering plants, but when we stepped inside, I was taken completely by surprise. Hundreds and hundreds of butterflies filled the air. It was a whimsical world far removed from everything outside of its door. Rhonda reached out and gently cupped her hand around an elegant monarch. Holding her palm out as the butterfly fluttered its wings, she turned to me and said, “I stepped out in faith to start this business.” Rhonda is the proprietor
of Metamorphosis Butterfly Farm, which is in its twelfth year as a supplier of pupae and butterflies to museums, zoos, and other enclosed exhibits around the United States. Rhonda shared with me that the journey to her unique and satisfying profession began the very day she invited God into this area of her life. Filled with a lighter heart and a renewed gratitude for her job with the post office, Rhonda recalled being more aware and receptive of the things going on around her. The year was 1996, and it unfolded like a road map with a series of events pointing her on her way. “I was invited to attend a meeting of the Plant City Garden Club, and host plants for butterflies was the topic,” she said. Intrigued, she bought a plant and raised her first caterpillar. She explained that it shed its old skin to reveal a protective covering known as the chrysalis. When pupation was complete, it broke out of the chrysalis and spread its new wings. “The beautiful creature that emerged in no way resembled the caterpillar that produced it,” she said with amazement. “I thought everyone has to see this!”
In the summer of 1997, further research revealed a seminar on the butterfly industry, which was to be held in Pennsylvania. Rhonda’s husband Clint, who has always been supportive of her dreams, saw it as an opportunity to plan a family vacation. So they headed North to explore a new state, only
“I guess I thought that God was newly aware of my situation,” she said with a laugh. “But as I grew in the knowledge of raising butterflies, I realized that God had been preparing me for this work for most of my life.” Rhonda was also reminded that God’s timing is perfect. “A new phase in the industry known as butterfly release was gaining popularity just as I was starting my business,” she explained. “Orders came my way for butterflies to be released at weddings and other special events.” By 1999, she had more business than she could handle in addition to delivering mail. After much prayer, she made the decision to retire from the post office. “It was a good job and I worked with many wonderful people,” she said. “But, I knew I was doing the right thing.” Filled with a sense of peace and purpose, Rhonda was ready to take her butterfly business to the next level. Today, her many clients include the enclosed butterfly garden at Wild Seed Farms in Texas, the Sweetbriar Nature Center’s Butterfly Vivarium in New York, and the Minnesota Zoo. On any given day Rhonda is up with the sun to begin countless chores and, just like any farmer, she deals with both good and bad returns for her efforts. She celebrated 2009 as her most productive year only to lose all of her plants in the hard winter freezes of early 2010. Reflecting on this contrast she replied, “Whether we are on the mountaintop or in the valley, I am convinced that God is most concerned with how we react.” Also, competition between butterfly providers can be intense, but she quickly pointed out that
honoring God in her working relationships and in her business dealings is her top priority. “It’s not all about money,” she said. Rhonda’s trust in God and irrepressible hope is an inspiration to her family, friends, and fellow farmers. Her daughter Shannon, who received her law degree from Stetson University College of Law, acknowledges her mother’s powerful influence. She shared, “Just this past year, I found myself in a difficult working environment, and I know that it was Mom’s example of faith that led me to seek God’s will, and then to trust that He was at work in my own life.” God’s creations are all magnificent, but the butterfly is the result of a transformation different from that of many creatures on this planet. Rhonda’s unique journey to a place of renewed hope and peace is also the result of what she calls a transformation of her own. Forever grateful, when Rhonda Stephens’ creative hands are not busy in the soil of the earth or cradling a monarch butterfly, she is quick to raise them in praise to her heavenly Father for His goodness. Rhonda said, “If we do not have it, it may be because we did not ask for it.”
Photography by Shana Leigh Photography
Rhonda bought more plants and raised more caterpillars. She then came across two articles featuring butterfly related businesses. “I just kept stumbling across information about butterflies, and a small hope began to build inside of me that maybe this creative interest could be more than a hobby,” she said. “At this point, things were still not yet clear, but I knew that God was asking me to think.”
for Rhonda to meet a fellow Floridian at the seminar. “A farmer from Gainesville, who raises butterflies for enclosed exhibits, told me that he had more orders than he could fill,” she said. “Before the end of the seminar, he agreed to buy all the butterflies that I could raise!” Upon returning home she gently packed the caterpillars, which were in the chrysalis stage, in soft layers of tissue paper and shipped them overnight to Gainesville. With this, her business was born.
MY ROCK
SCRIPTURES I STAND ON
Matthew 6:33 (NKJV) “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” If we put God first, we don’t have to worry about the other stuff. Age 9
Matthew 28:18-20 (NLT) “Jesus came and told His disciples, ‘I have been given complete authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’” This tells me that, as Christians, Jesus has given us the task to reach all of those who do not know Him. We must reach nonbelievers by our words, actions, and beliefs. As Christians we must lead by example and present the Gospel in a way that all can understand it. We must step out of our comfort zone to reach the unsaved. We can accomplish this and be reassured that Jesus will always be with us.
EVENTS
JANUARY/FEBRUARY
JANUARY One Uth Under God - Youth Event
7
Presented by Life Changing International Ministry Featuring Group 1 Crew HCC - Plant City 1206 N. Park Road, Plant City www.oneuth.com *Tickets: $15; group discounts: contact@oneuth.com 7pm
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Got Belly Fat? A FREE Seminar
15
WinterJam 2011
Presented by Dr. Aliya Redwood 27210 Foamflower Blvd., Wesley Chapel www.wesleychapelchiropractic.com *RSVP is required, 813-973-2261 6pm Featuring Newsboys, Kutless, David Crowder Band, Newsong, Francesca Battistelli & More! St. Pete Times Forum 401 Channelside Dr., Tampa www.jamtour.com *$10 at the door - no tickets required 6pm, doors open at 5pm
15-17
18-23
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Broadway Musical
Straz Center for the Performing Arts 1010 N. Macinnes Place, Tampa www.tbpac.org Tues.-Thurs., 7:30pm, Fri., 8pm Sat., 2pm & 8pm, Sun., 2pm & 7:30pm
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Phil Wickham Concert
Calvary Chapel St. Pete 8900 US Hwy 19 N, Pinellas Park 727-577-7705 *Tickets: FREE 6pm
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Gasparilla Children’s Parade
Bay to Bay Blvd. & Bayshore Blvd., Tampa 813-471-1531 www.gasparillaextravaganza.com 11am-7:30pm, 3:30pm (parade begins)
22-23
2011 Long Haul 100 Ultra-Marathon
26-27
Gasparilla Distance Classic
The Festival of Chocolate
MOSI 4801 E. Fowler Avenue, Tampa www.festivalofchocolate.com *$10 (adults), FREE (children 12 & under) 9am-6pm
Extreme Race - Extreme Cause Race Starts at The Grove, Wesley Chapel www.longhaul100.com Races: 50 miles, 100 miles, 5 & 10 Runner 100 mile Relay Team *To benefit the organization Praxis Haiti 8am
FEBRUARY Shrek: FREE Showing
4
Straz Center Riverwalk 1010 N. Macinnes Place, Tampa www.tbpac.org 8pm
Lowry Park Zoo: $5 Day
5
1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa 813-935-8552 www.lowryparkzoo.org 9:30am-5pm
15-17
Victorian Valentine Making
Henry B. Plant Museum 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa 813-254-1891 www.plantmuseum.com *$15 (members), $20 (non-members) Personalized valentines, tea & cookies
10am-12pm
Bayshore Blvd. & Verne St., Tampa www.tampabayrun.com Sat., 15K (7am) & 5K (9:30am) Sun., Half Marathon (6am) & 5+3K (9am)
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The Jungle Book
Straz Center - Ferguson Hall 1010 N. Macinnes Place, Tampa www.tbpac.org *Part of the Kid Time Series, Ages 5-11 2pm & 4pm
If you would like to add an upcoming event to our calendar, please submit the event name, date(s), time(s), location(s), & a short description of the event to:
events@overflowmag.com Deadlines are the 15th* of each month *Space is limited
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EVENTS
Greater Brandon Community Foundation’s Ang e l
Progr a m
O
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: LIZ BREWER, ABBY BRUNDAGE, & JODI CHADWELL
n November 12, 2010, Overflow was honored to attend the 5th Annual Evening of Hope for the Greater Brandon Community Foundation Angel Program at Bell Shoals Baptist Church. This heartfelt event was held to promote the Angel Program, which is a one-of-a-kind program in the area. It was established in 2006 to help families that are experiencing a life threatening disease or catastrophic event. The Angel Program has helped over 150 families in a variety of ways. Liz Brewer and Jodi Chadwell of Ambiance co-chaired the event and explained that the evening was designed to raise awareness of the Angel Program, which would enable them to help more families in need. Abby Brundage of Spirit FM 90.5 was the Master of Ceremonies for the evening. Some of the guest speakers that entertained the crowd included Mark Royals, former Buccaneers punter; Shelton Quarles, Pro Scout and former Buccaneers linebacker; and WFLA Channel 8’s Daytime show host, Cyndi Edwards. Beckah Shae beamed with the love of God as she performed three songs off her hit album for the audience. The Junior Angels, who help the children of the affected families, sat with Abby on stage to share what they do for the foundation and what it means to
them. A silent auction was held throughout the evening to raise funds for the foundation. The event was inspiring and evoked the spirit of love for our neighbors that Jesus taught. It’s clear that there is a unique need in our community for the Angel Program and the impact for God is great, as they share the love of Jesus Christ through acts of kindness. Both recipients of the Angel Program and donors alike delivered moving testimonies of how the foundation has changed their lives. Families experiencing a traumatic event need much more than money to get through such an emotional time. The Angel Program offers assistance by matching an Angel with a family’s needs. Support through practical means can help these families on a day to day basis. Individuals and business owners donate their talents and services to help with everyday tasks or to simply bring some joy to an otherwise dark time. Lawns have been mowed, flowers have been delivered, A/C units have been installed, flooring has been replaced, and meals have been served. These are just a few among the many kind acts that have been performed by the program’s Angels. With the support of the community, this will continue for years to come. As the Brandon Foundation put it, the Angel Program uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED Mission:
“The mission of The Greater Brandon Community Foundation is to improve the quality of life and shape the future of our community by creating public awareness, developing resources, and supporting initiatives that address local needs.”
Vision:
“Our vision is to provide a link between those with resources and those who need help. Mobilizing individuals to become active partners in the building of a better community and to be a permanent resource for the needs of our community’s future.” If you are interested in helping the Foundation, becoming an Angel, or you are a family that needs assistance, please go to www.BrandonFoundation.com and fill out the form under Angel Program. Website: Address: Phone:
www.BrandonFoundation.com P.O. Box 3197 Brandon, FL 33509 813-689-6889
Jan 2011 Love+Faith+Hope
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LOCAL CHURCH SERVICES Alafia Baptist Church
222 Alafia Baptist Church Rd. Lithia, 33547 813-634-8845 Sun., 9:45am, 11am, & 6pm Wed., 7pm
Anointed Word Church
1709 St. Joseph St. Tampa, 33607 813-254-5271 www.anointedwordchurch.com Sun., 10:30am, Wed., 7pm
Bay Covenant Fellowship 6813 US Hwy 301 S. Riverview, 33578 813-785-6032 www.baycovenant.com Sun., 10:30am & 6pm Wed., 7pm
Branch of Christ Ministries 27223 State Road 56 Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-435-1469 Sun., 10am
Christ CP Church
19501 Holly Lane Lutz, 33548 813-909-9789 www.christchurchlutz.org Sun., 10:30am
Christian Family Church AMC Westshore Plaza 210 Westshore Plaza Tampa, 33609 813-802-8736 www.cfctampa.org Sun., 10:30am
Countryside Baptist Church
13422 Sydney Road Dover, 33527 813-571-8200 www.countrysidebaptistchurch.net Sun., 9:30am (Bible Study), 10:45am (Worship Service), & 6pm Wed., 7pm
Want to add your church?
If you would like to learn more about how your church can be listed in this section and become a point of distribution, please contact us:
813-915-6700 or contact@overflowmag.com
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CrossRoads Community United Methodist Church
Floodgates Community Church
Church of the Lakes
Gateway Christian Center Assembly of God
26211 County Line Rd. Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-907-5815 www.crossroadsum.com Sun., 9am (Blended Worship) 10:30am (Contemporary Worship) 2530 Wilson Rd. Land O’ Lakes, 34638 813-948-4358 www.churchofthelakesepc.org Sun., 9:15am & 10:30am
Dwelling Place
410 County Line Rd. W Lutz, 33548 813-949-1912 www.thedwellingplace.us Sun., 8:30am & 10:30am 2pm (Spanish Service)
E_Life Chapel
3806 N. 12th St. Tampa, 33603 813-924-6553 www.elifechapel.com Sun., 10:30am
Faith Life Church
4902 East Busch Blvd. Tampa, 33617 813-910-7336 www.flctampa.org Sun., 9am, 10:40am, Wed., 7pm Thurs., 7pm (Healing School)
First Baptist of New Tampa 28125 County Line Rd. Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-907-1685 www.fbcnewtampa.org Sun., 9:15am, 10:30am, & 6pm
First Thonotosassa Missionary Baptist Church 10650 McIntosh Rd. Thonotosassa, 33592 813-986-4756 www.thonotosassabaptist.org Sun., 9:45 am, 11am & 6pm Wed., 7pm
27137 Foamflower Blvd. Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-389-0238 www.floodgateschurch.org Sun., 9:30am, 11am & 5:15pm Tues., 8:30pm, Young Adults Wed., 7pm
14200 North Central Ave. Tampa, 33613 813-961-4692 www.gatewaytampa.net Sun., 9:45am, 10:45am & 6pm Wed., 7pm
Grace Outreach Ministries 1900 Oak Grove Blvd. Lutz, 33559 813-316-6606 Sun., 10:30am
Heritage Church
1854 Oak Grove Blvd. Lutz, 33559 813-909-4080 www.yesheritage.com Sun., 9am & 11am Wed., 7pm
Keystone Community Church 21010 State Road 54 Lutz, 33558 813-962-4522 www.keystonecommunity.org Sunday School, 9:30am Sunday Worship, 10:30am
Kingdom Worship Center 1102 E. Fowler Ave. Tampa, 33612 813-443-5720 Sun., 10am, Thurs., 7pm
Life Changing International Church
2106 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, 33594 813-653-9358 www.lifechangingintlministry.com Sun., 1:45pm Celebration Service Mon., Wed. & Fri., 7:30pm
Myrtle Lake Baptist Church
River of Life
New Birth of Faith Fellowship Church
Shoresh David Messianic Synagogue
2017 Reigler Road Land O’ Lakes, 34639 813-949-5516 www.myrtlelake.org Sun., 10:30am & 6pm
1725 E. Fowler Ave. Tampa, 33612 813-972-0101 www.newbirthoffaith.org Sun., 10am, Thurs., 7pm
New Life Church
1611 E. Bougainvillea Tampa, 33612 813-244-4355 Sun., 3-5pm Wed., 7pm
Next Level Church
Tarpon Springs High School 1411 Gulf Rd. Tarpon Springs, 34689 727-279-6362 www.livenextlevel.com Sun., 10am (Cafe) 10:30am (Worship Service)
Oasis World Outreach
35636 State Road 54 West Zephyrhills, 33541 813-782-2888 www.oasisworldoutreach.org Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm
Onething Prayer Center
777 W. Lumsden Rd. Brandon, 33511 813-500-9411 www.onethingprayer.com *See website for various church, worship, and prayer service times
Open Arms Church of Ybor City 1314 E. 18th Ave. Tampa, 33605 813-248-2595 www.openarmschurch.org Sun., 10:30am & 1pm (Spanish) Wed., 7pm
Pathway to Peace Christian Church
5808 Lynn Rd. Tampa, 33624 813-908-0893 Bilingual-Spanish Services Sun., 10am, Tues. & Fri., 7:30pm
410 Chapman Rd. East Lutz, 33549 813-949-9931 www.riveroflife-lutz.org Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm
33425 State Road 54 Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-831-5673 www.shoreshdavid.org Fri., 7pm
St. James Methodist Church 16202 Bruce B Downs Blvd. Tampa, 33647 813-971-4790 www.stjamestampa.org Sun., 9am (Traditional), 11am & 12:30pm (Contemporary)
Tampa Covenant Church
13320 Lake Magdalene Blvd. Tampa, 33618 813-968-2979 www.tampacovenantchurch.org Sun., 9:30am, Wed., 7pm
Trinity Church of Wesley Chapel
33425 State Road 54 Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-788-2898 www.trinitychurchwc.com Sunday, 8:15am, 10:45am
& 9:30 (bible study)
Victorious Life Church
6224 Old Pasco Rd. Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-973-2230
www.victoriouslifechurch.com
Sun., 9am, 10:40am & 6pm; Wed., 7pm
Vida Community Church
Meeting at The Dwelling Place 410 W. County Line Rd. Lutz, 33558 813-810-0863 www.vidacommunitychurch.org
Bilingual-Spanish Services
Sun., 2pm, Thurs., 7pm
Water’s Edge Church
30200 Overpass Road Wesley Chapel, 33545 813-994-5000 www.connectingfaith.com Sun., 11am Wed., Kids - 6:30pm, Adults - 7pm
Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church 6100 Memorial Highway Tampa, 33615 813-886-2536 www.wesleymemorial.net Sun., 9am & 11:15am Wed., 6:30pm
Without Walls Intl. Church 3860 W. Columbus Drive Tampa, 33607 813-879-4673 www.withoutwalls.org Sun., 9am, 11am, 3pm (Spanish) Thurs., 7pm
Zephyrhills First Assembly 36322 State Road 54 Zephyrhills, 33541 813-788-3490 www.zephyrhillsfirst.com Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm