Osprey Observer Christian Voice Monthly December 2019

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Volume 23, Issue 12

A Free Publication from Osprey Observer Inc.

December 2019

Kings Avenue Baptist Church Continues Christmas Tradition With 33rd Annual Walk Thru Bethlehem Event

By Amanda Boston

Offers On Page 3

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ChristmasTown

It takes a village to make a vilschools and local bands such as lage. For 33 years, Kings Avenue Crosswalk, Bound No More, Baptist Church has presented Walk Shepherd's View and Band Of Thru Bethlehem (WTB), an interactive Brothers are scheduled to perform. ‘town of Bethlehem’ dating back to WTB has grown into a commuthe time when Jesus was born. The nity tradition—not only for the visit20,000 sq. ft. village is brought to life ing families but also for the volunby volunteer actors and animals. teers. Reid Van Emburgh recently WTB is a free community event moved to Missouri but planned his that takes place nightly vacation to coincide with WTB, from Thursday, December 5 to enabling him to volunteer. He Walk Thru Bethlehem is a gift to community that expressed the joy he receives from Sunday, December 8. The realistic is completely volunteer-based and reliant on scenes of Roman guards and playing the role of a tax collector donations. villagers dramatize the events and engaging with the visitors. ter of Tracy Hoyt, has been leading up to the birth of Jesus “I’ve been volunteering for quite a an actor for the past five so that visitors can experience few years, and I keep coming back years. She said, “When you the true meaning of Christmas. each year. I love that [WTB] brings work Walk Thru Bethlehem, To pull off a production of people together to learn about God, you really feel like a part of this magnitude, it takes 225 volJesus, our church and, hopefully, they a community.” unteers each evening and about 400 make a decision to follow God,” said The community tradition attracts volunteers throughout the year.

Van Emburgh. more than 6,000 people over the Volunteers are not limited to Kings WTB i free, however, donations of four-day event—with Friday and Avenue Baptist Church members— gift cards to Home Depot and Lowes Saturday nights producing the largest many local community members and can help maintain the village.Visit crowds. The guided walk admits students participate. www.bethekingsavenue.com to get groups of 15 at a time. You can “We are a community service involved or donate, or contact Tracy expect to see visitors lining up 30 hours event that counts for Bright Hoyt at wtb@bethekingavenue.com. minutes before registration.

Futures and clubs,” said Committee WTB takes place on December 5 During registration, visitors are Chairperson Tracy Hoyt. “We place from 6:30-9:30 p.m., December 6 given a group number and can track our volunteers where they are most from 6:30-10 p.m., December 7 from their wait time online—providing comfortable, whether it is acting, 4-10 p.m. and December 8 from 4-9 guests with the option to leave and working with animals or registering p.m. The church is located at 2602 S. come back. For those waiting on the guests. We also need help before Kings Ave. in Brandon. More informapremises, the sanctuary will have and after the event.” tion and wait times can be found at refreshments for purchase and free Emma Hoyt (age 14), the daughwww.walkthrubethlehem.com. entertainment. Musical acts from

Local Churches Give Gift Of Hope To Local Families

By Amanda Boston

Hooked on Books

Columns:

Grace Notes:

Page 5

Your Monthly Catch: Page 7 Faith & Footprints:

Page 13

Hooked On Books:

Page 14

Greater Brandon Gift of Hope trip into my own community.” is a multi-church outreach that For families to participate, provides a traditional Christmas they must reside in the meal and Christmas gifts to famiGreater Brandon area and lies in need. Hundreds of families will be vetted through in the Greater Brandon area are Brandon’s Emergency Care food-insecure. Hunger not only Help Organization (ECHO). affects the homeless—often, famTo sign up, participants will ilies have to choose between need a picture ID, social paying a bill or purchasing food. security card and proof of To help fill the gap, the Gift of address. The list of zip codes Hope ministry rallies local churchbeing served can be found on es to join together and tangibly the Gift of Hope website. For demonstrate the love of Jesus to questions, call 485-5604. those in their community. This Last year, Gift of Hope year’s combined effort includes served close to 657 families 10 churches that will collect the and had 380 registered volLocal high school students are shown sorting through toys Christmas meal items, toys, gift unteers. For those who wish donated to Greater Brandon Gift of Hope. wrap and other items. to volunteer but are not conOver three days, volunteers from nected to a church, help is needed multiple denominations will assemble during the distribution days. You can at the First Baptist Church of Brandon sign up for a time slot online through to distribute meal items and help parthe Gift of Hope website at ents ‘shop’ for their children’s www.brandongiftofhope.com.

Christmas gifts. This year’s distribuVolunteers must be 14 years or older tion dates are Thursday, December 12 (unless accompanied by an adult). and Friday, December 13 from 9 a.m.Donations of food items and toys 6 p.m. and Saturday, December 14 are also appreciated. To see a list of occasion in the prayer chapel, but I’ve requested items, please visit the Gift from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. had the privilege of running the gift “I’m eagerly anticipating this of Hope website. ECHO will accept wrap area for three to four of those year’s upcoming event," said Kit donations during regular business years. It’s an honor to serve each per- hours. If you would rather make a Enriquez, who, along with her husson, look in their eyes, hear their story monetary donation, the option to purband, Eric Enriquez, has been and pray with and for them. The expe- chase a turkey is available online. involved with Gift of Hope for the last rience is always exhausting, but in a 6-7 years.

First Baptist Church of Brandon is beautiful way. I consider it a mission She continued, “We’ve helped on located at 216 N. Parsons Ave.

Page 2 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

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Page 3 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

Local Nonprofit Equips And Trains Leaders Around The World

By Amanda Boston

Marlin James Air Conditioning And Heating Celebrating 25 Years

By Kelly Wise Valdes

In October, CCI held its third Global Conference with more than 85 attendees representing 14 different nations.

Crossing Cultures International (CCI) is a local nonprofit organization that seeks to glorify God by equipping and training pastors and church leaders globally for effective ministry. Although headquartered in Brandon, the organization lives up to its name with a presence in 37 countries.

CCI’s goal is to produce mature, Christlike leaders who can make mature disciples of Jesus Christ, as they pastor a church, lead a ministry or go wherever God has called them. To do this, CCI provides affordable and comprehensive training to pastors and church leaders through a relational discipleship training method.

Dr. David Nelson, president of CCI, founded the organization after spending more than a decade as a church planter on the island of Bohol in the Philippines.

Although CCI didn’t officially become incorporated until 2006, the Lord was orchestrating all the parts and people long before.

While in the Philippines during the late 80s, Dr. Nelson began teaching three men about Jesus using an apprenticeship model—a practice also common in the Philippines. Like Jesus’ relationship with His disciples, Dr. Nelson spent time with these men, teaching them how to correctly handle the Word of God.

Expiration: 12.31.2019

“It costs about $5,000 a month to send a missionary to the Philippines,” explained Dr. Nelson. “But to train a pastor or church leader that lives there, it costs $10 a month for three years to train a leader who is already in the culture.”

He continued, “We bring the training to where the people live so they can be trained and equipped to serve the Lord in the local church or go out and start new churches.”

In October 2019, CCI ‘went home’ to hold its third Global Conference on the island of Bohol.

National directors, area coordinators, pastors, spouses and staff from 14 different nations attended to worship, pray, hear testimonies, encourage one another and plan for the future.

Henry Ventura, the CCI national director in the Philippines, attended the conference and said, “I learned how to interpret the Bible correctly, and that changed my whole life.

Today, by the grace of God, CCI is equipping pastors and church leaders in 570 classes with 6,344 participants. More than 8,000 students have graduated from 37 different countries.

For more information or to donate, visit www.cciequip.org or call 217-5077.

Marlin James Air Conditioning and Heating has been providing top-of-the-line service to customers throughout Hillsborough County and the surrounding Tampa Bay area for 25 years. Owners Scott and Glenda Clark attribute much of their business success to their mission statement: “To serve all with integrity while striving for excellence.” This familyowned and operated business has a long history of exceeding customers’ expectations with integrity, honesty and quality work.

Glenda was born and lived in Plant City until she was 12 years old, and then her father’s job took the family to Houston, Texas. Eventually Glenda and Scott (the “Marlin” in Marlin James) met in Houston and have now been married for more than 37 years. The entire family moved back to the Brandon area in 1984.

“Both my husband and father, Red (Red was the ‘James’ of Marlin James), worked in the air conditioning business here for 10 years before deciding to start their own company,” said Glenda. “My father’s only stipulation was that I do the accounting.”

When Red decided to retire in 2006,

Expiration: 12.31.2019

Glenda purchased his half of Marlin James. This family-owned business, along with its employees, focuses everyday on integrity and accountability.

“Our employees also have the authority to use WWRD (What Would Red Do) while servicing our customers,” said Glenda. “This allows them to make decisions based on what should be done to ensure 100 percent satisfaction.”

Glenda also explained what sets them apart from their competition is that they don’t use sub-contractors. “Our service and install technicians are not paid on commission nor do they have a quota,” said Glenda, “which is different from most companies. We are of the belief that this insures there is no reason to try and sell something that the customer does not need.”

Marlin James Air Conditioning and Heating was founded on an incredible combination of loyalty, integrity and pride.

Positive leadership along with devoted employees and customers are testimony to 25 years of successful business for Marlin James in this community.

For more information, call 689-0817 or visit www.marlinjames.com.

Expiration: 12.31.2019

Page 4 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

Hope ReSale, Bikes For Christ, Winter Luncheon & Rock The Universe Hope ReSale Store Supports Tampa Bay Mission Of Hope Outreach Ministries

Connection is celebrating Christmas with a Winter Wonderland at its luncheon on Tuesday, December 10 from 11 Tampa Bay Mission of Hope is a a.m.-1 p.m.

501(c)(3) public charity providing food, The monthly luncheon is now clothes, counseling to the homeless, held at Buckhorn Springs Country veterans, women and low-income famClub, located 2721 S. Miller Rd. in ilies. Hope Resale Store accepts Valrico. donations to support community outThere will be raffles, door reach programs. prizes, Christmas music and more Hours are Tuesday to Friday from surprises.

This is a nondenomi10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 national luncheon and all ladies a.m.-2 p.m. It is located at 6323 US are welcome.

There is no memHwy. 301 in Riverview. bership.

The cost for the lunch is Hope 4 Veterans is one of the pro- Bikes For Christ is hoping to provide bikes to lowincome families this holiday season.

A bicycle can $15.

First-time guests pay $10. grams that supports homeless veterbe a lifeline providing access to work, school and Please call Lillie at 740-0098 for a ans. A cold weather shelter will open community resources. reservation or information. this year as Tampa Bay Mission of provider of transportation for the Hope. The grand opening is on homeless and needy. The work takes Plant City Monday, December 9. them into parts of four counties to help Community On Wednesday, December 11, partner agencies that are working Chorale Plans there will be a Holiday of Hope directly with clients in need.

Joyful Noise Christmas food box giveaway. To regLast year, not only did it gift bikes Holiday Concert ister, call 443-3133 for Tampa Bay in the Bay area, it also transported Mission of Hope.

The Plant City approximately 80 bikes to the Community Panhandle to help ’Salvage Santa’ and Bicycle Donations Sought By Bikes Chorale will presthose affected by Hurricane Michael.

For Christ ent its annual holiday concert, Joyful Bikes were also distributed in both Noise, on Saturday, December 7 at Bikes For Christ is ramping up for Guatemala and Haiti in 2019.

7:30 p.m. The concert, which is sponthe holiday season. The nonprofit proFor many low-income families, a sored by Hopewell Funeral Home & vides bicycles to those in need, but bicycle can be a lifeline; providing Memorial Gardens, will be performed there is always a greater demand this access to work, school and community at First United Methodist Church at time of year, and funds have been resources that would otherwise be 303 N. Evers St. in Plant City. depleted. While there are a lot of other inaccessible. To donate, please The Chorale will be joined by the organizations that gift bicycles away visit www.bikes4christ.com/donations.

Florida Southern Girls Chorus, an only at Christmas, Bikes For Christ auditioned chorus for young women in provides them to about 50 organizaBrandon Christian Women’s grades 6-12 out of Lakeland and surtions in the Tampa Bay area all year Connection’s To Hold Winter rounding Polk County. Both choirs, long.

Wonderland Luncheon under the direction of Claudia Bolano Started in March of 2016, Bikes The Brandon Christian Women's Becerra, will perform holiday favorites For Christ has grown into the premier

By Michelle Colesanti

such as Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Oh Holy Night and Deck the Halls. Tickets are available at www.pccchorale.org, from any chorale member or by calling 9657213. Tickets may also be purchased at the Walden Lake Car Wash.

Advanced tickets are $12. Tickets at the door are $15 for adults and $10 for children under 12 and any student with a student ID.

Universal Orlando’s Rock The Universe Returns In January

Universal Orlando’s Rock The Universe, a two-day Christian music festival, will return on Friday, January 24 and Saturday, January 25. Guests can ‘rock, ride and rejoice’ to some of Christian music’s biggest artists.

The lineup for Friday includes Switchfoot, Newsboys, Tenth Avenue North, Tauren Wells, Tedashii and the Afters. Then on Saturday, you can enjoy music from Chris Tomlin, TobyMac, Bethel Music, We Are Messengers, Unspoken and I Am They. (Artists are subject to change.)

Rock The Universe is a separated ticketed event and takes place inside the park. Ticket options and pricing can be found online at www.universalorlando.com. Please visit the website for further details. For questions, call 407-224-7840.

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Page 5 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

Grace Notes Bending The Rules

By Debora Coty

“For nothing will be impossible with God,” (Luke 1:37, NASB).

Every time I hear someone quote this verse, usually applying it to some hopeless mess they find themselves in, I think about the hopeless mess going down when it first appeared in the Bible.

Do you recall?

These powerful words were uttered by the mighty angel Gabriel as he presented a flabbergasted, quivering virgin with a positive pregnancy test. The plus sign was horrifyingly clear.

No! That’s impossible! “But how?

I’ve never slept with a man,” Mary gasped (Luke 1:34, MSG).

Bible scholars believe Mary was less than 15 years old. She wasn’t being snarky; she was simply pointing out, from her teenage perspective, the zit in the face of this plan. Not gonna happen. Nope. A humongous piece of this puzzle’s missing, man.

And then the shiny dude dropped yet another crazy impossibility in her

lap—middle-aged cousin Elizabeth, way past menopause, was preggers, too!

I picture Mary’s already pale face going bone white and her mouth dropping open. Whaaa…

No way!

It was then that Gabriel gave her the only explanation she would ever need: Nothing is impossible with God. Mary didn’t get it at first. For, like us, she never considered that a bona fide miracle could possibly happen in her life. But then it sank in: She was loved. She was special. She was chosen. God was going to bend the rules of possible for her.

Did you know He wants to bend the rules for you, too? No, not because you’re pregnant with His Son. Because you’re loved.

Because you’re special.

Because you’re chosen.

Prayer for today: Mighty One, like Mary, I thank You for doing great things for me. For making the impossible possible. Holy, holy, holy is Your name.

“You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger,” (Luke 2:12, NKJV).

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.

Christian Artist Brandon Health To Perform At South Bay Church

By Amanda Boston

“God is asking for everything I’ve got. Whole Heart speaks to a vulnerable topic, but I wanted it to sound free and open and triumphant,” said Heath about the song. “God’s already got it all in His hands, but He still asks us to surrender.”

Heath hails from Nashville and began writing songs at 13 This holiday season, join the award-winning years old. His ability to lyrically Christian artist Brandon Heath for a family-friendly connect with his audience has concert in Riverview. earned him admiration among felSouth Bay Church invites you and low Christian artists as well as accoyour family to a night of worship with lades. In 2014, Heath was named BMI’s contemporary Christian artist Brandon ‘Songwriter of the Year.’ BMI recognizes Heath. The event takes place on songwriters from all genres.

Saturday, December 21 at 7 p.m.

Pam Walsh, the special events “Every year, our pastor, David coordinator, said, “At South Bay, we look Speicher, enjoys gifting our community at this concert as an outreach to the with a low-cost Christmas concert the community, and so we like to keep costs whole family can enjoy,” explained Sean low so that the whole family can enjoy Doherty, the associate pastor of operait.” tions at South Bay. “This year, we are Tickets are $10 per person and are honored to host Brandon Heath.” available online at Heath is an eight-time GMA Dove https://southbay.church/events. The conAward-winning artist, a five-time GRAMcert is expected to sell out due to the MY® nominee and has received an church’s capacity of 500. The venue is American Music Award nod and an open seating with doors opening at 6 Emmy Award. He is best known for his p.m.

No. 1 singles I’m Not Who I Was and Doherty said, “We are excited to Give Me Your Eyes. provide this gift to our community and His latest album, ‘Faith Hope Love provide an opportunity for them to get Repeat,’ was released in 2017 and into the Christmas spirit.” takes its name from 1 Corinthians 13:13.

South Bay Church is located at “And now these three remain: faith, 13498 US 301 S. in Riverview. For more hope and love. But the greatest of these information about South Bay, visit is love.” The album’s title track along https://southbay.church. To learn more with Whole Heart are crowd-favorites about Brandon Heath, visit www.branplaying on today’s Christian radio. donheathmusic.com.

Page 6 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

Ruskin Christian School Earns Middle States Association Accreditation

The Mighty Miracles Of Jesus Jesus Heals A Deaf, Mute Man

Staff Report

with a self-study conducted by the school or school system with input from school leaders, teachers, parents and students. Following the self-study, a team of volunteer educators from Middle States member schools conducts an on-site peer review visit to observe school operations and interview various stakeholders.

The team makes its recommendation to the MSACESS, which votes on the Ruskin Christian School members with three accreditation. accreditation certificates.

“The Middle States Ruskin Christian School (RCS) accreditation process brings together announced on November 4 that it had school leaders, teachers, parents and earned accreditation by the Middle States students to develop a strategic plan for Association Commissions on Elementary the future that is built upon continuous and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS), a school improvement,” said Lisa Marie worldwide leader in accreditation and McCauley, Ed.D., president of the MSAcontinuous school improvement.

CESS. “Middle States-accredited schools “Middle States accreditation serves benefit from the power of peer review as an independent validation of the good and should be commended for their comwork we do, and the accreditation mitment to collaboration, growth and process focused our attention on strateadvancing student achievement.” gic planning and continuous improveRCS received its reaccreditation in ment practices,” said Tim Vanderveer, April 2019 through the Florida administrator of RCS. “We are proud to Association of Christian Colleges and have earned accreditation and look forSchools and in August received its first ward to continuing to work with our national accreditation through administrators, teachers and parents to AdvancED/Southern Association of provide high-quality education for all stuColleges and Schools. dents.”

Based in Philadelphia, the Middle Accreditation is a multifaceted evaluStates Association is the worldwide ation process that schools and school leader in accreditation and school systems voluntarily use to demonstrate improvement. For over 125 years, Middle that they are meeting a defined set of States has been helping school leaders research-based performance standards. establish and reach their goals, develop The 12 Middle States Standards for strategic plans, promote staff developAccreditation are: mission, governance ment and advance student achievement. and leadership, school improvement With more than 2,500 accredited planning, finances, facilities, school schools and school systems in 34 states organization and staff, health and safety, and over 100 countries, MSA-CESS is educational programs, assessment and proud of its continuing legacy and its evidence of student learning, student ongoing innovations to meet the chalservices, student life and activities and lenges of improving education in the 21st information resources. century. For more information, visit The accreditation process begins www.msa-cess.org.

By Kelly Wise Valdes

During His ministry, Jesus performed more than 40 miracles, including healing the sick, changing the natural elements of nature and even raising people from the dead. A miracle is considered an event that occurs outside the bounds of natural law. Each month, we will take a closer look at one of His miracles to understand the depth of His love for us.

Understanding the miracles of Jesus can change your life, and it all begins with believing through faith.

As demonstrated throughout the four Gospels, Jesus could heal in many different ways. Sometimes He simply spoke, and the illness was healed, and other times, He used the power of His touch. In Mark 7:31-37, we learn that Jesus healed a man who was deaf and mute. Mark was the only Evangelist to record this miracle. It is speculated that Mark decided to write about this miracle because it demonstrated an act of Jesus healing a Gentile.

Matthew tells us that when Jesus returned from Tyre and Sidon, hundreds of people brought their sick friends and family to be healed. This particular man that was brought to Jesus was deaf and had a speech

impediment. At the time, deaf people were often isolated from society.

As said in Mark 7:33-36, “Jesus took him aside in private, away from the crowd, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spat and touched his tongue. Then he looked up to heaven, he sighed and said to him, ‘Ephphatha,’ that is, ‘be opened.’ And immediately the man's ears were opened, his tongue was released, and he spoke plainly. Then Jesus ordered them to tell no one; but the more he ordered them, the more zealously they proclaimed it.”

This man’s inability to hear or communicate had put him in danger, as people use their hearing more than they realize to avoid harm. Spiritual deafness is no different. When we cannot hear God, we inevitably lose our direction and fall into a dangerous path away from God’s will for us. We must spiritually heal so that we can understand God's Word in our lives.

This miracle also demonstrates that we need to show compassion for people needing help, like those who brought the deaf, mute man to Christ for healing. We need to bring people to Jesus through our actions and compassion.

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Page 7 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

Your Monthly Catch Local Happenings In Our Community

Photos By Mo Ogilvie Mo2vated Photography A multi-chamber ribbon-cutting was recently held to welcome ARISE Church to the SouthShore area.

Chambers Celebrate The New Southshore Campus Of ARISE Church

In October, the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) members along with the Brandon and SouthShore Chambers gathered to celebrate the new ARISE SouthShore campus of ARISE Church. All who entered were greeted by friendly leaders of the church. Tours of the newly revamped location were provided and refreshments were enjoyed. Many of the church’s pastors were on hand to officially welcome attendees.

ARISE operates with seven core values: People, Relationships, Authenticity, Growth, The Next Generation, God’s Presence and

Creativity. ARISE exists to experience God and strive to create a fun and exciting environment where relationships are more important than a ritual.

There is a strong emphasis on youth and the church offers several programs aimed at engaging children and teens. The SouthShore location is even equipped with a meeting room just for teens, resembling a café setting with dimmed lighting and a cool, modern ambiance. Campus Pastor Mike Braddock is hopeful that the presence of the church and engaging with the local community will encourage more SouthShore residents to join them on Sunday mornings.

ARISE Church has an original location in Brandon and the organiza-

tion found many of its parishioners were traveling from the SouthShore area to join them in worship. The opening of the SouthShore campus will bring convenience to their members who were previously making the drive to Brandon and also provide the opportunity to deepen the church’s outreach in the region.

The ARISE Church Southshore campus is located at 3048 E. College Ave. in Ruskin. Call 689-2345 or visit https://myarisechurch.com/southshore/ and its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/myarisechurch/.

Christmas Time At Grace Community United Methodist Church

Join Grace Community this Christmas season for some family-friendly, festive events. On Saturday, December 14 from 10 a.m. to 12 Noon, you can build a family gingerbread house. The cost is $5 per person or $20 (max) per family.

On December 22, Grace Community will hold a Blue Christmas Service at 6 p.m. at the Bull Creek Brewing Company in Valrico. The candlelight service is intended to comfort those who have had a loss of any kind. There will also be a Tree of Remembrance.

Bring your own lawn chair.

Grace Community will hold two

Christmas Eve services at 5 and 7 p.m. with contemporary worship.

Childcare is available for age 4 years and under. On Sunday, December 29 at 10:15 a.m., the church will host Cocoa & Carols, an event where everyone is invited to wear their pajamas. Children are encouraged to bring their favorite toy or gift for a pastoral blessing.

More details and information on youth events can be found online at www.mygraceumc.com. The church is located at 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd in Lithia. For questions, call 6618858.

Kids Day Out At Campo Y

During the holidays, bring your kids to the Campo Y for an enriching experience while you are at work or out and about. Kids will enjoy team-building games, arts and crafts, STEM, high and low energy games and making new friends. The dates are December 23, 26-27 and 30 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. The cost for members is $35 per day per child.

Nonmembers pay $50 per day per child.

Campo Y is located at 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico. For more information contact Alison Gartner at Alison.gartner@tampaymca.org or call 684-1371.

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Page 8 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

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Expires 3/31/2020

Page 9 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

The Greatest Story Retold At Bell Shoals Light Has Come Service

Winter Jam Tour Returns To Tampa

Staff Report

By Amanda Boston

sion and can be purchased at the door or online at www.bellshoals.com or www.itickets.com. Doors open an hour before the start of the show. The show is approximately 75 minutes long. Sunday’s per-

Bell Shoals Baptist Church is known for its annual Christmas musical, which has become a tradition for many in the Brandon community.

This holiday season, join Bell Shoals Baptist Church as it presents an encore production of Light Has Come. With performances on Friday, December 13 at 7 p.m. and on Saturday, December 14 and Sunday, December 15 at 6 p.m., guests have multiple opportunities to experience the greatest story ever told in a new and spectacular way.

Light Has Come is a Bell Shoals Worship exclusive with original songs as well as traditional favorites. Jason Millsaps, the pastor of music and worship, and BJ Davis, the music director, collaborated on the project.

Millsaps said, “The Bell Shoals Worship Choir debuted Light Has Come last year as a unique Christmas worship experience.” He continued, “This has been an almost two-year project with writing, planning and updating. You’ll want to make this Christmas production a part of your family’s Christmas celebration.”

Tickets are $10 for general admis-

formance will have deaf interpretation.

“The story of Jesus is timeless and does not change,” said Davis.

“But we have an opportunity today to tell His story in a relevant way that can speak to the culture and community that we live in.”

Light Has Come is presented with a state-of-the-art 50-foot video wall, a five-person cast in the style of black box theatre, a 150-voice choir and a 30-member orchestra. The entire production employs about 250 volunteers when also including the integral behind-the-scenes operators such as tech support, wardrobe specialists and more.

For more information about the show, please contact the church at 689-4229 or visit www.bellshoals.com/christmas. Bell Shoals Baptist Church is located at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon.

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Christian music's multi-artist annual outing, the Winter Jam Tour Spectacular, returns to the AMALIE Arena on January 11, 2020 at 6 p.m. This year’s headliner is the fan favorite and GRAMMY®-nominated singer-songwriter Crowder.

With recent hits such as Red Letters and All My Hope, the genre-spanning artist—who regularly appears on the Grand Ole Opry—leads a star-studded 2020 lineup featuring some of the biggest names in Christian music.

Known for its musical diversity and focus on the gospel, Winter Jam is a non-ticketed event. However, a suggested donation of $15 is accepted at the door. The concert includes a message with the acclaimed pastor, author, speaker and Passion Movement founder Louie Giglio. The renowned worshippers of Passion will also be featured.

“It’s crazy to think this is my first time speaking on Winter Jam, one of the most influential tours of the last few decades,” said Giglio. “I'm pumped and really excited to share the nights with our fam— Crowder and Passion!”

“We can’t wait to get out on Winter

Jam 2020,” echoed Crowder.

“There is nothing like it, and 2020 is going to be just insane! Too much goodness in one place.”

Winter Jam 2020’s lineup also showcases hip-hop recording artist and producer Andy Mineo, Dove Award-winning pop hitmakers Building 429, GRAMMY®-nominated rockers RED, Dove Award-nominated singersongwriter Austin French and GRAMMY®-nominated Winter Jam creators and tour hosts NewSong.

Additionally, the PreJam opening set will feature 2019 New Artist of the Year, Dove Award-nominee Riley Clemmons and will introduce singer-songwriter Billy Ballenger, as well as emerging rap/hiphop recording artist Zauntee.

“I’ve never been more excited about Winter Jam than I am for 2020,” said NewSong founding member and Winter Jam creator Eddie Carswell. “The lineup is amazing, and the desire to see Jesus change lives remains our top priority.

Bring your friends, bring your youth group—just don't miss it.”

In addition to the tour's popular Jam Nation membership, which allows attendees early entry among other exclusive perks, Winter Jam is introducing a limited number of Jam Nation Ultimate Access passes for 2020. This exclusive pass includes a backstage meet and greet with Crowder, premium reserved Jam Zone seating and free Jam Nation entry to any other 2020 Winter Jam date.

For more information, visit jamtour.com, amaliearena.com or call 301-2500.

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Page 10 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

Special Christmas Services Offered By Area Churches and a hopeful message proclaiming the Light of the World.

Who: ARISE Church

What: Christmas Eve Services at the Brandon and SouthShore campuses When: Tuesday, December 24 at 5 p.m.

Where: The Brandon campus is located at 401 Pauls Dr. in Brandon, and the SouthShore campus is located at 3058 E. College Ave. in Ruskin.

Description: Services will be held at both of the Brandon and SouthShore campuses.

Who: First Baptist Church of Brandon

Who: Bay Life Church

What: Christmas Eve Services When: Tuesday, December 24 at 2, 4 and 6 p.m.

Where: 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon Description: There will be something special for the kids, your favorite Christmas carols, a family photo station, and a wonderful message from Pastor Mark.

Who: Bell Shoals Baptist Church— Apollo Beach Campus

What: Christmas Eve Services When: Tuesday, December 24 at 2, 3:30 and 5 p.m.

Where: 408 Apollo Beach Blvd. in Apollo Beach

Who: First Presbyterian Church of Brandon

What: Christmas Eve Services When: Tuesday, December 24 at 5 and 7 p.m.

Where: 121 Carver Ave. in Brandon Description: There will be a praise band family service at 5 p.m. and a traditional service with the chancel choir at 7 p.m. Both services will have a candle lighting and communion.

What: Christmas Eve Services When: Tuesday, December 24 at 3 and 5 p.m.

Where: 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon

Who: The Chapel At Fishhawk

What: Christmas Eve Services When: Tuesday, December 24 at 5:30 and 7 p.m.

Where: 6026 Churchside Dr. in Lithia

What: Christmas at The Crossing When: Tuesday, December 24 at 4:15 and 6 p.m. at the Tampa campus; Tuesday, December 24 at 4:15 p.m. at SouthShore campus and Plant City campus.

Where: The Tampa campus is located at 10130 Tuscany Ridge Dr. in Tampa.

The SouthShore campus is located at 2409 E. College Ave. in Ruskin. Plant City campus is located at 507 S. Wheeler St. in Plant City.

Description: We welcome you to join us in celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ with a candlelight service, joyful music

Valrico Description: Even 2,000 years later, there is nothing like the present, the gift of Jesus Christ. Come celebrate His life and light with us!

Who: Limona Village Chapel UMC

What: Christmas Eve Services When: Tuesday, December 24 at 6 p.m. for a Children’s Christmas program and 9 p.m. for a traditional service.

Where: 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon

What: Christmas Cantata and Christmas Eve Services When: Cantata will be held on Sunday, December 15 at 10:45 a.m. and Christmas Eve services will be held on Tuesday, December 24 at 6 and 7:30 p.m.

Where: 408 Limona Rd. in Brandon Description: Listen to our wonderful choir perform beautiful music for its Christmas Cantata on December 15.

Who: Nativity Catholic Church

What: Christmas Eve Services When: Tuesday, December 24 at 12 Noon, 1:30, 3, 4:30 and 6 p.m.

Where: 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia

What: Christmas Masses When: Christmas Eve Masses are on Tuesday, December 24 at 4 p.m. in the church (English, ASL) and the gym (English, Life Teen); 7 p.m., located in the church (English) and the gym (Spanish); and Midnight Mass, located in the church (bilingual). All Christmas Day Masses will be located in the church at 7 a.m., 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

(Spanish).

Where: 705 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon

Who: Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church

Who: New Hope United Methodist Church

Who: FishHawk Fellowship Church

Who: Bell Shoals Baptist Church— Brandon Campus

Who: The Crossing Church

What: No Room— A Christmas Musical and Christmas Eve Candlelight Service When: The musical will be Saturday, December 7 and Sunday, December 8 at 6 p.m. The Christmas Eve service is Tuesday, December 24 at 5 p.m.

Where: 216 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon

What: Festival of Lessons and Carols, Christmas Eve Services and Christmas Day Service When: The Festival of Lessons and Carols will be held on Sunday, December 15 at 4 p.m. On Tuesday, December 24, the church will hold a family service at 5 p.m., a seasonal music prelude at 10 p.m. and Festive Eucharist (with incense) at 10:30 p.m. On Wednesday, December 25, a Christmas Day service will be held at 9 a.m. with the Holy Eucharist.

Where: 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico Description: Two beautiful Christmas Eve services with a variety of traditional seasonal music will be offered by our music department and a brass quartet.

What: Christmas Eve Services When: Tuesday, December 24 at 3 p.m. for traditional worship, 5 p.m. for family worship, 7 p.m. for casual modern worship and 9 p.m. for bell choir and communion.

Where: 121 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon.

Who: Immanuel Lutheran Church and School

Who: Overflow Church

What: Christmas Eve Services When: Tuesday, December 24 at 5

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Who: Next Level Church

What: Christmas Eve Service When: Tuesday, December 24 at 6 p.m.

Where: 10540 Browning Rd. in Lithia Description: You are invited to Next Level Church for a wonderful Christmas Eve service for the entire family.

What: Nothing Like the Present When: Tuesday, December 24 at 5 and 6:30 p.m.

Where: 4929 Bell Shoals Rd. in

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p.m. for a Sunday School Program, 7 p.m. for a candlelight service and 9 p.m. for a candlelight service with communion.

Where: 2913 John Moore Rd. in Brandon

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Who: Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale

Who: Ruskin United Methodist Church

What: Christmas Choir Cantata and Christmas Eve Candlelight Service When: Join us on Sunday, December 22 at 10 a.m. for the Cantata and on Tuesday, Tuesday, December 24 at 6:30 p.m. for the Christmas Eve Service.

Where: 105 4th Avenue NW in Ruskin

Who: Saint Andrew's United Methodist Church

What: Christmas Eve Services When: Tuesday, December 24 at 4:30 p.m. with a family service, a contemporary service at 6:30 p.m., a traditional service at 8:30 p.m. and a traditional service with communion at 11 p.m.

Where: 3315 S. Bryan Rd. in Brandon

Who: Saint Anne Catholic Church

What: Christmas Masses When: Tuesday, December 24, the church will hold children’s choirs at 3:30 p.m. with a family mass at 4 p.m., mass at 6:30 p.m., Spanish Mass and Posada Procession at 9 p.m. and mass at 12 Midnight preceded by choral singing with Jubilate Deo Choir at 11:30 p.m.

Wednesday, December 25, the church will hold a Christmas Mass at 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and 12 Noon.

Where: 106 11th. Ave. NE in Ruskin

Who: Saint Stephen Catholic Church

What: Christmas Eve Mass When: Tuesday, December 2, the church will hold mass at 8:30 a.m. in the chapel, 4 p.m. in the main church and Family Life Center, 7 p.m. in the main church and Family Life Center and Midnight Mass in the main church and chapel (if needed).

Where: 10118 St. Stephen Cir. in Riverview

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Page 11 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

Angeloni Tax Advisory Group Offers Expert Financial Advice

By Michelle Caceres

Dining out can saved for retirement be expensive, but needs and goals? one dinner with Need help underfriends actually standing recent saved FishHawk reschanges to couples’ ident Patti Roberts a Social Security fortune. claiming strategies?

That’s because Have sufficient life the topic of financial insurance coverage? planning came up Howie and Mitchell and her friend, walk their clients Nancy Spooner, through each aspect spoke highly of of their financial plan.

Howie and Mitchell The go-to comHowie and Mitchell Angeloni at Angeloni Tax Advisory Group Angeloni at Angeloni pany for a TripTik to Tax Advisory Group. What Spooner didn’t help map out a long road trip is AAA. know was that Roberts and her husband Angeloni Tax Advisory Group is like the were about to retire and were facing the AAA of the finance world as it maps out daunting task of electing how to withdraw its clients’ retirement journeys, helping their company pension distributions. them avoid the pitfalls and dangers that “I hadn’t told anyone that we were can threaten a comfortable retirement. struggling to select the best pension “Most of my clients only retire once, option for us and it was like a sign when but I’ve been helping clients retire sucshe mentioned the company that could cessfully for 16 years,” said Howie. help us with that decision,” said Roberts.

Located at 11938 Balm Riverview She and her husband met with the Rd. in Riverview, Angeloni Tax Advisory father/son team, who walked them Group’s services include asset managethrough their options and which one best ment, estate and financial planning, suited their situation. investment management, life insurance, “I love how they explained everything retirement financial planning and tax in language that made it easy for somepreparation. From pre-retirement through one without a financial background to retirement to full estate and tax planning, understand and also I really felt like they it can resolve and/or plan around almost had our best interest at heart,” she said. any financial, insurance or estate tax The Angelonis together have their issue that may be on the horizon. best interests at heart. As a fiduciary, Its office hours are Monday to Friday Howie is required to always place his from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by appointment. clients’ interests above his own. Each For more information, visit client receives a detailed review of their www.angelonitax.com or call 813-626overall financial situation. Have enough 7575 to schedule a free consultation.

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Page 12 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

Where To See Holiday Lights And Entertainment To Please The Entire Family Christmas Lane At The Strawberry Festival Grounds

Over 2,000 volunteer hours have prepared the winter wonderland full of the magic at Christmas Lane, which will take place at the Florida Strawberry Festival Grounds on 1508 W. Oak Ave. in Plant City, from Friday, November 29 through Tuesday, December 24 from 6-10 p.m.

Enjoy over 1.5 million lights, drawing more than 180,000 watts of power, adorning over 200 Christmas trees from 4 to 40 ft. tall. Be sure to visit Santa. Have your photo taken, professionally or with your own camera, and enjoy the live entertainment.

Fritzy the One Man Circus performs each hour and area performers will entertain on the half hour.

Food concessions are available and rides will entertain the young ones (for an additional charge).

Admission is $5 for ages 13 and older, $3 for ages 4-12 and free for those 3 and under. Parking is free. For more information, visit https://christmaslane.com/.

Tampa Bay’s Wonderland Of Lights & Santa’s Village Don’t miss Tampa's Wonderland of Lights & Santa’s Village located at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds in Dover from Thursday, November 28, 2019 through Saturday, January 4, 2020.

Drive through one mile of dazzling lights and holiday displays. At the end of your journey, you can visit the village and enjoy circus attractions, comedy or magic shows (check the calendar for list of events), a wolf exhibit, amusement rides, pony and camel rides and photos with Santa. Yummy fair-style food such

as mini donuts, chocolate chip cookies, funnel cakes, pizza and pulled pork will be available.

New this year, take a journey through the light display or just visit the village for a small admission fee. Season tickets are available so you can make multiple visits.

The hours are 6-9 p.m. on weekdays and 610 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. Please check the calendar online as it is not open every weeknight through the holiday period.

If you purchase your tickets online, the cost is $25 for a car (one to eight passengers). The cost includes admission to Santa’s Village.

A season pass costs $65 per vehicle.

Visit https://thewonderlandoflights.com.

Nights Of Shimmering Lights

Enjoy the grounds at the Sun Kissed Acres, which has joined with Nights of Shimmering Lights to bring a holiday light experience for families to enjoy. Enjoy a quarter-mile walking trail through the lights with music, animated scenes, outdoor holiday movies, games, a photo booth and Santa.

Located at 2302 N. Dover Rd. in Dover, Nights of Shimmering Lights opens on Saturday, November 30 and runs through Wednesday, December 25.

It will be open Thursday to Sunday each week and also Monday to Wednesday, December 23-25. The hours are 6-9 p.m. on Sunday and Thursday and 6-10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

The cost is $6 per person over 3 years old. Ages 3 and under are free. Parking is free. Visit www.thesunkissedacres.com.

Compiled by Michelle Colesanti

$19.99. Tickets are on sale now. Visit https://enchantchristmas.com/stpete.

Barrington Oaks - Christmas Lights Display

Enchant Christmas

Enchant Christmas is a large-scale, immersive holiday light experience featuring the World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze, a locally curated food and Christmas market, ice skating trail, live entertainment and much more.

The larger-than-life maze experience is coming to Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg and is based on Enchant’s storybook, The Great Search. In this story, Santa’s reindeer are accidentally set free and the entire city is charged with helping him track them down inside Enchant’s World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze.

Build traditions and make memories that last a lifetime as this experience festively wraps guests of all ages in the awe and wonder of this cherished time of year.

Tropicana Field is located at 1 Tropicana Dr. in St. Petersburg. Enchant Christmas will run from Friday, November 22 to Thursday, December 12 from 4-10 p.m. from Monday to Thursday and 4-11 p.m. from Friday to Sunday. From Friday-Sunday, December 1329, it will be open from 4-11:00 p.m. daily.

Enchant Christmas will be closed Monday-Thursday, November 25-28, and on Monday, December 2 and 9.

Adult general admission starts at

Each year, Barrington Oaks subdivision, located on the southeast corner of Lumsden Rd. and John Moore Rd., opens its neighborhood to the public in the spirit of the holiday to share in the spirit of Christmas with a light display.

The gates will be open Friday, December 13 through Thursday, December 26 from 6-11 p.m. every night with extended hours on Christmas Eve and Christmas day from 6 p.m.-12:30 a.m. for those two special days.

The neighborhood welcomes you but asks that you please make a right hand turn as you enter the neighborhood.

Oakdale Light Display

You can visit the Oakdale Light Display in St. Petersburg, which is ranked among the best in the U.S. and features approximately a half million lights. It is the only display to make HGTV's #1 and NBC's Today show's top three in the same year.

This year, there are many major additions, upgrades and changes to the lights and displays. Enjoy the walkways, fountains, computerized light show, animated dolls and a snowman about three stories high. The most popular item is the large HO-scale model railroad running 18 trains at one time. The event is free and fun for everyone. Visit the display from Friday, November 29, 2019 through Thursday, January 3, 2020 from 6-10 p.m. at 2719 Oakdale St. in St. Petersburg.

For more information, visit ChristmasDisplay.org.

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Page 13 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

Live Like You Mean It

By Kelly Wise Valdes Photo By Amanda Boston

St. Edmundsbury Cathedral – Suffolk, England

For more than 1,000 years, the site of St. Edmundsbury Cathedral has been one of worship and pilgrimage. The oldest and most admired of Suffolk churches owes its existence to a defeat in battle.

Edmund, king of the East Angles, was killed by the Danes in 869. Miracles were reported at the king's tomb, which led to his canonization. His body was moved to the monastery of Beodricksworth and renamed St. Edmund's Bury in his honor.

Later, this monastery was converted to an abbey. St James’s Church was then built within the grounds of the abbey.

The nave of the church was rebuilt in about 1503 by John Wastell, a local mason who also worked on King's College Chapel, Cambridge and the bell tower of Canterbury Cathedral. In 1914, the church was extended and raised to cathedral status. The original abbey was eventually demolished.

The cathedral lies at the heart of a complex of historic buildings. On one side

is the Norman Tower, an early 12th century freestanding tower that acts as a bell tower for the cathedral. On the other side is Abbeygate, a striking Gothic tower built in the 14th century, which acts as a gateway to the Abbey Gardens.

Throughout the cathedral and towers are historical furnishings, such as a medieval hammerbeam roof that is ornamented with figures of 30 angels, significant paintings and elaborate stained glass. Most of the stained glass in the cathedral is Victorian, made by the firm of Clayton and Bell. The windows in the North Nave Aisle depict stories from the Old Testament and those in the South Nave Aisle depict stories from the New Testament.

Outside the cathedral are gardens planted with varieties of herbs and flowers known to have been used in the Middle Ages.

The cathedral building has continued to develop over recent years with the addition of the Millennium Tower, completed in 2005, and its magnificent painted and gilded vault, added in 2010.

The church is still active, holding regular weekly church services as well as special events. It is open to visitors between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. every day throughout the year. Visitors are welcome to tour the cathedral and grounds for free, but donations are gratefully received. For more information, visit www.stedscathedral.org.

Gratitude Is A Potent Spiritual Power Tool

By Derek Maul “Don’t be anxious about anything; rather, bring up all of your requests to God in your prayers and petitions, along with giving thanks.” – Philippians 4:6 Yesterday, deep into a difficult week, I took a walk in the rain.

Boots on, umbrella up, I even splashed some puddles. I took some deep breaths of the cool, fresh air, opened up a line of communication with God, and reminded myself of my blessings, one by one.

Gratitude is not just a good idea leading up to Thanksgiving, it’s a spiritual power tool that can be cultivated as a state of mind, a state of spirit, a state of being. And when I say ‘cultivated,’ I mean that we can choose gratitude as an orientation and then be intentional about pushing it to the front of our minds. We can choose our frame of reference: The attitude we live out from can be, or become, a habit just like anything—remember the classic movie scene from Singing in the Rain? Bitterness is a habitual framework; a sour disposition most certainly is too; anger, cynicism and looking for the negative absolutely become de facto, programmed, reflexive responses.

My question is this: “Why would

we allow other people the power to shape who we are and what we are feeling when, instead, we have the means within us to choose something beautiful? Why allow the news, circumstances, angry people, those pushing negative viewpoints, uptight legalists, manipulative politicians (and suchlike) to force us into a negative mindset?”

What works about a positive spirit is that being upbeat does not deny what is difficult and troubling in this world—it just refuses to be regulated by the negative.

This is an extension, really, of my thinking around the word ‘benediction.’ We have this opportunity to speak blessings into this world; we can also speak gratitude and know the power of a thankful heart.

“Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 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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Page 14 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

Christ-Centered Christmas Books For Children

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Several years ago, I saw on Pinterest the idea of reading a children's Christmas book each week in December as a type of countdown to Christmas. I loved this idea, and I knew that I wanted to make this a part of our Christmas traditions.

I had a simple measure for my Christmas book countdown—I wanted all the books to be Christ-centered to help our family stay focused on the true meaning of the season. As with most children, my little ones had become very fixated on their very long Christmas lists, Santa Claus and candy canes.

Reading a book each week was an easy way to recenter and reconnect with the true Christmas spirit and teach them about the birth of Jesus.

Below are some books to consider reading this year with your little ones to start this new Christmas tradition in your family. Mark 10:15-16 says, "'Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.' And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them." Merry Christmas!

A Birthday Party for Jesus

By Susan Jones

This book is a heartwarming reminder to children that Christmas isn't about Santa or asking for presents; it's about celebrating Jesus' birthday. It tells the story of forest animals preparing for a big and exciting event. Somewhere in the forest, one special animal knows the true meaning of Christmas and is celebrating Jesus and wants to share it with the rest of his forest friends.

God Gave Us Christmas

By Lisa Tawn Bergren

As Little Cub and her family prepare to celebrate the most special day of the year, the curious young polar bear begins to wonder, “Who invented Christmas?” Mama Bear and Little Cub head off on a polar expedition to find God and to see how He gave them Christmas.

Through Mama’s gentle guidance, Little Cub learns about the very first Christmas and discovers that Jesus is the best present of all.

The Pine Tree Parable

By Liz Curtis Higgs

The Pine Tree Parable tells the heartwarming tale of a farmer and his family who nurture tiny seedlings into fragrant Christmas trees. When the trees are tall enough to offer to their neighbors, the farmer's wife plans to keep the most beautiful pine tree for her family—until one snowy December night when a child teaches her the true meaning of Christmas.

Mortimer's Christmas Manger

By Karma Wilson

Mortimer is tired of his dark, small home. He finds a manger scene in the family's living room and proceeds to rearrange the nativity characters and makes the manger his new bed. However, each day, the nativity is reset. He finally sees one of the humans reading the Christmas story and realizes that he cannot use the little bed because it belongs to baby Jesus. So, he prays to Jesus to provide him a new home.

Page 15 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

BAPTIST Bay Life Church 1017 Kingsway Ave., Brandon (813) 661-3696 Bell Shoals Baptist - Brandon 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 Congregación Hispana 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 ext. 242 Bell Shoals Baptist - Apollo Beach 408 Apollo Beach Blvd., Apollo Beach (813) 641-2222 Bell Shoals Baptist - Palm River 5415 Palm River Rd.,Tampa (813) 621-2058 Bell Shoals Baptist - Riverview 9990 South Hwy 301, Suite 10024, Riverview (813) 689-4229 First Baptist Church of Brandon 216 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon (813) 689-1204 First Baptist Church of Bloomingdale 3303 Bloomingdale Ave.,Valrico (813) 689-3847 First Baptist Church of Gibsonton 9912 Indiana St., Gibsonton (813) 677-1301 First Baptist Church of Ruskin 820 College Ave. W., Ruskin (813) 645-6439 FishHawk Fellowship 15326 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia, (813) 655-7431 Grace Baptist Church 2909 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-7190 Journey Church 415 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon (813) 699-8262 Shiloh Baptist Church 1104 Cason St., Plant City (813) 752-8345 CATHOLIC Nativity Catholic Church 705 E Brandon Blvd., Brandon (813) 681-4608 St. Anne Catholic Church 106 11th Ave. NE, Ruskin (813) 645-1714

St. Matthews Anglican Church 10701 Bloomingdale Avenue, Riverview 813-663-0334 St. Stephen Catholic Church 10118 Saint Stephen Circle, Riverview (813) 689-4900 CHURCH OF GOD Boyette Springs Church of God 12114 Boyette Rd., Riverview (813) 671-0086 Plant City Church of God 2103 Mud Lake Rd., Plant City (813) 752-4591 EPISCOPAL Holy Innocents' Episcopal Church 604 N. Valrico Rd., Valrico (813) 689-3130 LUTHERAN Immanuel Lutheran Church 2913 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-1787 Living Savior Lutheran Church 2650 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico (813) 681-2375 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Seffner 1310 South Kingsway Rd., Seffner (813) 689-3513 Grace Community United Methodist Church 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Lithia (813) 661-8858 • info@mygraceumc.com New Hope United Methodist Church 120 N. Knights Ave., Brandon (813) 689-4161 Riverview First United Methodist Church 8002 US Hwy 301., Riverview www.riverviewflumc.org Ruskin United Methodist Church 105 4th Ave. NW, Ruskin (813) 645-1241 South Shore United Methodist Church 11525 Big Bend Rd., Riverview (813) 649-9462 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Calvary Chapel Brandon 1331 Kingsway Rd., Brandon (813) 681-5318 Centerpoint Church 1801 S. Miller Rd., Valrico (813) 689-1906

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Page 16 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

Hot Off The Christian News Wire the existing statues that represent North Carolina with the statue of Billy Graham.

With only 100 statues on display at any given time, the addition of a sculpture for the National Statuary Hall statue is a rare and unique opportunity.

Those who would like to contribute to the Statuary Hall Fund can visit http://billygraham.org/statue to make their gift.

Public Invited To Be Part of History In Honoring The Legacy Of Billy Graham

In 2015, then North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory signed into law House Bill 540, which decreed that a statue of the evangelist Billy Graham would be commissioned to represent the state in the U.S. Capitol. As plans move forward with the project, those impacted

by Graham's timeless gospel message are invited to be part of honoring his legacy through the Statuary Hall Fund.

Graham, who preached the gospel to more than 215 million people over his more than 70year ministry and counseled countless world leaders, was named North Carolina's Favorite Son in 2013.

The National Statuary Hall is located along the perimeter of the Rotunda and in the Crypt of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington D.C. Each state is permitted to have two statues representing prominent historical figures from their state on display. Following Graham's death in 2018, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper formally requested the replacement of one of

JJ Weeks Releases The Sound Of Freedom, Joins Winter Jam Tour 2020

Renowned Macon, Georgia-based singer-songwriter JJ Weeks, known for writing and leading hit-making songs like Let Them See You, Alive In Me,

What Kind Of Love, Do Not Be Afraid and, most recently, Choices, is now releasing The Sound of Freedom. The single was recently released to digital retail and streaming outlets globally from Radiate Music.

Playing the new song and fan favorites on the road, Weeks will embark on a Christmas tour before joining the Winter Jam 2020 tour, Christian music's largest annual tour that launches on Friday, January 10, 2020 at Jacksonville and travels to 42 cities around the country.

Playing 100 to 150 concerts coast-to-coast each year, Weeks has also toured with MercyMe, Casting Crowns, Unspoken, We Are Messenger and many more. For all the latest JJ Weeks tour and music news, visit jjweeks.org, Facebook and Instagram.

2019 National Care Letter Campaign Honors Deployed Service Members And Veterans

December 2019 marks the ninth year that America's Adopt A Soldier® will reach out to America to ask for cards of thanks to share with our nation's service members who are deployed and veterans who are in state veteran homes and hospitals.

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“This year, the goal is to reach over 300,000, which would allow us to send at least four letters to every veteran in a veteran's home or veteran's hospital as well as to our deployed service members.”

The cards and letters were drawn or written by a diverse group of individuals, from 3-yearolds to 100year-olds.

From kitchen tables to classrooms, to businesses, to college dorms and faith-based establishments, the pens, pencils, crayons and pieces of paper used to create messages of hope, appreciation, unity and support will have a positive impact. The letters demonstrate the care Americans have towards our servicemen and servicewomen.

To participate in the 2019 National Care Letter Campaign, mail your personally written and designed letter or greeting card to America’s Adopt A Soldier, 5400 Shawnee Rd., Ste. #300, Alexandria, VA 22312.

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Page 17 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

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For the first time Tickets to the Come out and tour three beautifully deco- Holiday Home Tour in the event’s rated homes, each with a unique theme, history, it will be are just $20 each at the Annual GFWC Brandon Service held in the (cash or check). You League’s Holiday Home Tour. evening from 4 to 8 p.m. Not only will you can purchase them at the Green get the opportunity to see several beautiBoutique at 1032 Bloomingdale Ave. in fully decorated homes adorned with twin- Valrico, Four Paws Veterinary Hospital at kling lights and holiday finery, but attend9430 Balm Riverview Rd. in Riverview, ing the Holiday Home Tour is a great way Julie’s Closet at 720 W. Robertson St. in to support a local organization that Brandon and at Plummer’s Family serves the Greater Brandon area.

Restaurant at 11758 E. Dr. Martin Luther This year’s tour will showcase three King, Jr. Blvd. in Seffner. You can also local homes. Judy Darsey, president of purchase them online at www.gfwcbranthe GFWC Brandon Service League, donserviceleague.org. There is a $1 consaid, “You will not want to miss this one. venience fee per ticket.

Once again, three homeowners have Please note that you must have your opened their hearts and their homes to ticket in order to gain access to the support this event that gives 100 percent homes in River Hills, which is located off of the funds raised back to local nonprofof Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. its and six area high school art departMagnificent Magnolia Place is located in ments.” the Riverview area.

Darsey added, “Whether you start at The GFWC Brandon Service League 4 p.m. and see the homes in daylight or is accepting new members. The GFWC come after 6 p.m. and see the homes Brandon Service League meets on the with their spectacular lights on, you have second Thursday of the month from a chance to see what three homeowners September through May (not including love about decorating for Christmas.

December).

They each have their own individual For more information, please visit style.” www.gfwcbrandonserviceleague.org.

Page 18 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

Sports

Connection

657-2418 www.christianvoicemonthly.com

By Nick Nahas

East Bay Indians Honors Volunteer Booster And Longtime Coach Stephen Wint For the last 15 years or so, Stephen Wint has been a major part of the East Bay Community, volunteering with the East Bay Buccaneers Youth Football and Cheerleading program and the East Bay High School Indians football program.

“He had a huge heart for the kids and a bigger heart to serve.

His passing was very tough on the community because he was so loved and respected,” said East Bay Head Coach Frank LaRosa. “Steve was a great guy— not just for our football program, but also for our school and community.”

Wint was a volunteer with the East Bay High School Booster Club, as well as a volunteer coach and director of concessions. He volunteered for the East Bay Buccaneers Youth Football and Cheerleading program when his son, Stephen, and his daughter, Shealynn, were a part of it, and he began helping out at East Bay High School when Shealynn started school there. He continued to

By Nick Nahas

be a big part of the football program, even after his kids graduated and went to college.

According to the East Bay head cheerleading coach and longtime friend of Wint, Tracy Howard, who spoke at his funeral, he had a servant heart and always wanted to help people when he was needed. “There wasn’t anything that he wouldn’t do for the community, our organization and for the kids involved in our organization,” said Howard. “He never said no to volunteering for anything, and he committed himself to the program even after

his kids graduated and moved on.”

Jo Ann Vildibill, who was a friend of Wint’s and worked with him in the concession stand, said that his funeral was attended by over 200 people and was standing room only. Wint, 56, has left behind his wife, Vicky; mother, Vinnet; three children and several siblings; as well as two grandchildren. “His death is a great loss for our community,” said Vildibill.

“People were drawn to him and his

example.”

According to Vildibill, Wint had dreams of upgrading the outdated and rundown concession stand at the high school in which he worked. He had already started raising money and getting volunteers to help with the remodel.

November 1 was the first football game played at home since Wint’s passing. The team had decals with his name on the back of their helmets to honor him, and the program celebrated him throughout the game.

“Selfless, hardworking and caring are all words Steve lived by,” said LaRosa.

Wint’s family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the East Bay High School Athletic Booster Club and East Bay Buccaneers football and cheerleading. Donations can be made at this facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/donate/374128406801972/ . In addition, checks payable to East Bay High School Athletic Booster Club (EBHSABC) may be sent to the school at 7710 Old Big Bend Rd., Gibsonton, FL 33534. All donations will go toward upgrading the concession stand.

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Page 20 • christianvoicemonthly.com • December 2019

Page 21

Favorite Things Sweepstakes Offers Special Rolling Pin Early Bird Prize-Big Green Egg

By Marie Gilmore

to contest@ospreyobserver.com or fill out the entry form and send in by mail, fax or email.

Last year, more than 1,000 local residents entered the campaign and ONE lucky winner walked away with a prize package worth more than $2,000.

Christmas C ins

nd Prize ear’s Grahristmas y t s la n wart wo in time for the C Alyce Ste st Valrico’s kes drawing ju liday.

Ho sweepsta

For five years, Osprey Observer newspapers has been partnering with local retailers to publish the Holiday Favorite Things Sweepstakes and gift guide, and this year promises to be one of the best yet! This year, we've partnered with our friends at Rolling Pin to offer an early bird prize of a Big Green Egg Grill! We are so excited to have such a great prize for our readers!

The campaign is called, the Osprey Observer, A Few of Our Favorite Things, and we have gone to local businesses and

Early Bird Prizes will include a Big Green Egg from Rolling Pin, tickets to Busch Gardens Christmas Town and more.

Good luck and thank you for shopping local and reading your Osprey Observer Community Newspaper!

Managing Editor Marie Gilmore

asked them to give us ideas for a few of the top items available this holiday season.

From now until midDecember, we will be collecting Our Favorite Things all throughout the community and putting them together in one giant gift basket that will be given out in a Sweepstakes for our readers.

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Cooking Classes & Big Green Egg Make Rolling Pin A Great Place For Gifts A visit to Rolling Pin Emporium will give you plenty of ideas to help you find something for every chef in your life. If you have holiday parties to attend this year, Rolling Pin also has a great selection of special wines and decorative holiday gifts.

Do you like to cook—or just like to eat? Rolling Pin also offers cooking classes for all types of meals. Some of the classes are hands-on and some are demonstration-only. Either way, you get to enjoy a great meal. You can take classes to learn about new foods you have not yet experimented with. The classes also make for a great date night, and the classes are a great gift that anybody would enjoy receiving.

Stop by and browse the gourmet retail store’s extensive collection of classic and unique kitchenware. You will find everything from barware, bakeware, aprons, towels and mitts, coffees and teas, cookware, electrics, gadgets, gifts for entertaining, knives and cutting boards, outdoor cooking and more.

According to owner, Chef Dave West, “We are the area’s licensed retailer for Frozen 2 (the movie) bakeware, as well as a huge selection for all holiday baking needs - cookie cutters, bake essential and decorating tools.”

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If you can’t decide on what you’d like to give, gift cards and gift certificates for both retail and cooking classes are available.

Rolling Pin Emporium is Brandon’s Premier Platinum Big Green Egg Dealer. “The new Expander System is hot, as is the Egg Genius Remote Temperature Controller,” according to West.

The all-new MiniMax Big Green Egg is proof that great things come in small packages. This EGG is the first to arrive with its own transportation in the form of a sturdy, easy-to-grip carrier.

With a value of $599, this year’s special gift giveaway is the MiniMax. It is perfect for camping, poolside and for tailgating at the ballgame. It is also at home in award-winning restaurants. Top chefs love exploring the EGG’s versatility and discovering the amazing flavors produced in such a compact and high-performance package. The MiniMax is built to perform and is ready to travel to wherever your culinary interests take you.

Rolling Pin Emporium is open for private events too.

Rolling Pin is located at 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon. Call 653-2418 or visit http://rollingpinonline.com/ for more information.

Music And The Arts Are Focus For Great Holiday Gifts At Music Showcase Music is the international language that is understood and enjoyed by all. Music Showcase is your one-stop shop for everything related to music and the arts. It is both a retail store and education center. This year, what better than to gift a love of music to your children?

Music Showcase offers name-brand products at competitive prices, and you can also buy used gear at lower prices.

Competitive pricing is available for sheet music and books too. For your instruments needing repair, the work is done in-house.

Music Showcase also offers group as well as private one-on-one music lessons.

Instrument rentals start at $10 (if you don’t want to make a purchase). If you sign up online, the instrument will be delivered to your school.

To spark a love of music early in life, Music Showcase hosts free workshops for mini musicians ages 4-10. At these free workshops, youngsters learn about various instruments and are welcome to join in to play, hear and learn about them.

They can try the guitar, violin, trumpet, drums and more. These workshops take place on the second Saturday of the month. An upcoming workshop is scheduled for December 7 from 9:30-11 a.m.

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Staff Report

Register at FAOPA.org or call 490-2787.

Is your child interested in musical theatre, acting or maybe photography? Sign them up at the Florida Academy of Performing Arts at Music Showcase for performance programs, musical theatre, summer camps, art classes and more.

Tickets are currently on sale for Beauty and the Beast, Matilda The Musical, Mamma Mia, The Jungle Book and Footloose.

Do your kids need to get some holiday shopping done too? Music Showcase and FAOPA will host Santa’s Workshop on Saturday, December 7 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., offering food, games, prizes, ‘snowball’ fights, ‘ice skating’, crafts and more. Your children will make and wrap five gifts to give to loved ones.

There will be a ‘Best Christmas PJ’s’ contest. The movie Arthur Christmas will also be shown.

The cost is $20 per child enrolled in a program or lesson and $25 for a child not enrolled. Call 490-3787 or visit FAOPA.org for more information or to sign up.

Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, call 685-5998 or visit MusicShowcaseOnline.com and FAOPA.org.

Page 23

Corbin’s Coin, Bundt Cake Tower And Mainstream Boutique Mac Jeans Corbin’s Stamp & Coin Is Your Source For Treasured Family Heirlooms If you are looking for the perfect gift - maybe for a family with a new baby or to celebrate a momentous occasion, a special coin may be the perfect keepsake?

Start a new family tradition by commemorating the Christmas season each year.

Holiday coin collections are the Gift Basket Item: perfect way.

Corbin’s Holiday One ounce silSilver Coin ver coins are Value: available for $29.95 $29.95 (plus tax) in a gift box or also as an ornament that can be displayed. The many varieties include Baby's First Christmas, Oh Holy Night, Season’s Greetings, Santa and other coins.

The coins come either in an AirTite capsule with a gift box or in an ornament holder. The ornament holder does not fit into the gift box.

Corbin’s Coins is located at 209 N. Kings Ave. in Brandon and is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m.

to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call 651-3266.

CORBIN’S

Stamp & Coin Nothing Bundt Cakes Are Perfect Desserts To Add To Your Holiday Meals Nothing Bundt Cakes creates cakes using hand-crafted recipes that not only remind you of home, but also open you to a new world.

At Nothing Bundt Cakes, you get real eggs, butter and cream cheese in every cake.

Not only do these cakes look great, they taste even better.

These are great holiday gifts to take to all of your holiday events and for all Gift Basket Item: Holiday Bundlet of your family Tower gatherings.

Value: It is located at $62.50 11238 Sullivan Street in Winthrop Town Centre. Everything you need

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to make your party complete is available. The hardest part is choosing from the 10 delicious varieties including a ‘featured’ flavor.

Hours are Monday to Friday 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Visit www.nothingbundtcakes.com or call 409-2394 to place your order ahead of time.

Mainstream Boutique You can visit Mainstream Boutique, a retail clothing store, in Winthrop to get some great ideas on gifts as well as attire for the holiday season. Make your head to toe purchases here where everything is new. It carries clothing, jewelry, accessories and shoes. Adorable outfits are available for every age group.

The exclusive brand of jeans called

By Michelle Colesanti Gift Basket Item: Mac Jean Value: $80

Mac and Me is available. Designed by a woman, the line is multigenerational and fits all body types. Buttery soft; fitting in all the right places; stretching with you, but don’t stretch out.

Another popular brand in stock is Liverpool. All jewelry is handmade and made in the USA. Some of the jewelry is from local and are one-of-a-kind pieces.

Other services offered are One on One Style sessions, Ladies Night Out and shopping for a cause.

Mainstream Boutique is located in Winthrop at 11231 Sullivan St. in Riverview. Hours are Monday to Friday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 Noon-4 p.m. Call 643-0090.

Page 24

Rolling Pin Kitchen, Full Grown Girl, Santa At Pixel Portraits, McAuley Jewelry Great Gift Ideas and Classes Help Make Rolling Pin A Great Stop For Holiday Gift Needs If you are stuck coming up with creative gift ideas, a visit to Gift Basket Rolling Pin Item: Emporium will Big Green Egg give you plenty of Mini Max: 13ideas to help you inch grill diamfind something for eter every chef in your Total Value: life. Rolling Pin also $599 offers cooking classes for all types of meals.

It is also Brandon’s only Platinum Dealer for the Big Green Egg, the ultimate cooking experience.

Rolling Pin is located at 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon. Call 653-2418 or visit http://rollingpinonline.com/ for more information.

Full Grown Girl Airstream Shop Opens In Winthrop Owner Cynthia Atkins recently opened a new gift shop featuring hand-

made items, candles, jewelry, beauty and bath products, baby items, home décor and vintage finds. No matter your taste or style, you will find something for your favorite family members and friends.

Full Grown Girl is located in a vintage Airstream trailer at 11267 Winthrop Main St. in Riverview.

The hours are Wednesday to Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. For more information, call 629-1124, visit fullgrowngirl.com or find on Facebook at Full Grown Girl.

Water Filter Warehouse Offers Unique Gift Ideas The team at the Water Filter Warehouse feels that there is nothing like celebrating the holidays with clean water and a whole house water system. This is a unique gift for someone. It offers Salt Free Water Systems & Wholesale Water Filters, Filtered Water Pitcher or Water Filter Gift Basket Bottles.

Item: Stop by the show$50 Gift Card room, which is located Total Value: at 3110 Lithia Pinecrest $50 Rd. in Valrico. You can also call 844-420-8326 (H2O-TEAM) or visitTheWaterFilterWarehouse.com.

Reserve Your Space With Santa At Pixel Portraits Pixel Portraits is more than a photo Gift Basket: shoot; it is One Hour Family an experience. It Christmas Session specializes in (8x10/two family, maternity, 5x7/eight wallets) baby, children, Value: couples engage$100 ment, glamour, business headshots and more. For the holiday season, Pixel Portraits will hold special Santa Minis Portrait sessions on select days. This includes a 20 minute interactive session, 11x14 framed art print and personalized studio viewing for $100.

Another favorite are the Family Christmas Sessions from which you can choose four different Christmas scenes.

Pixel Portraits is Gift Basket located at 930 W. Item: Lumsden Rd. in Filtered water Brandon.

Regular pitcher Total Value: hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday $70 and

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

McAuley Fine Jewelry Is A Gem In The Community Make this season merry and bright for someone you love by designing something unique to surprise them with. McAuley Fine Jewelry will help you plan your custom-made piece of jewelry. Previously loved pieces of jewelry are also available.

Jewelry and watch repairs are also done on premises. It also will pur-

Gift Basket: 14k White Gold Oval Blue Topaz/Diamond Drop Earrings chase your scrap gold.

Value: McCauley $1650

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Women’s unique clothing and accessories

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By Michelle Colesanti

Friday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m and Sunday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. It is closed on Thursdays.

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Page 25

BLU Indigo Spa Escapes, Music Showcase Lessons And Water Filtration Oakfield Dr. It is open from Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Call 689-8124 or visit www.mcauleyfinejewelry.com.

Valrico. Call 651-3258 and visit BluIndigoSpa.com.

Gifting Music Lessons At Music Showcase Can Create a Life Long Passion Music is the international language that is understood Find Time To Relax Over Gift Basket and enjoyed by all. Share The Holidays Or Give The Item: your love of music by Gift Of Relaxation Spa Treatment offering voice or instruBLU Indigo Spa has a Total Value: ment lessons to your warm, therapeutic atmosphere $90 favorite student. Instrument designed to enhance your relaxrentals start at $10 (if you don’t ation and comfort. Let our expert want to make a purchase). If you sign staff take you on a journey to estabup online, the instrument will be delivlishing a new and revitalized you. Let ered to your school. The gift of music them help you put your best self forlessons to let your child try a new ward.

Help yourself gear up for the holi- instrument is something that can last a lifetime. days with a relaxing massage or look All of your music needs can be your best at holiday events with a found at Music Showcase, which facial. Other services include nails offers competitive pricing on sheet and waxing. Walk-Ins are welcome music and books. There is an inand hours are Monday and Tuesday house repair shop, and private and from 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Wednesday to group lessons are offered.

Saturday from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Is your child interested in musical Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

A great gift idea to help your friends and family de-stress durGift Basket ing or after the holidays is the Item: gift of a massage or facials. Gift Ukulele with cards are available and good Lesson Book for all services offered.

Total BLU Indigo is located at Value: 3939 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in

$50

theatre, acting, or maybe photography? Sign them up at the Florida Academy of Performing Arts at Music Showcase.

Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, call 685-5998 or visit MusicShowcaseOnline.com and FAOPA.org.

By Michelle Colesanti

Refresh Your Home This Holiday Season Or For The New Year With Gift Basket Walker Hill Item: Designs 2 Hour In Are you Home Design entertaining Consultation this holiday seaTotal Value: son? Get in touch $200 with Walker Hill Designs, which will style your home

Page 26

Pinch-A-Penny Has Big Green Egg, Edible Is A Sweet Idea & Mobile Massage

By Michelle Colesanti

so that you love it. Everyone deserves the gift of a beautiful home and Walker Hill Designs offers Interior Decorating, Home Staging and Color Consultations.

If you are trying to sell your current home, Walker Hill Designs also offers home staging.

Call 951-545 to schedule a refresh. Visit walkerhilldesigns.com.

tion of pool supplies - since pool season never really ends in Florida. Purchase gift certificates as holiday gifts.

Hours are Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m.3 p.m. The FishHawk Pinch-A-Penny located at 16715 FishHawk Blvd. in the Winn Dixie Plaza in Lithia. Call 6553700.

Edible Arrangements Is A Holiday Gift Ideas From Sweet Idea Pinch a Penny Include Big Green Egg There’s nothing Gift Basket Owners Larry and sweeter for the holidays than an Item: Kathy Rugledge say arrangement of delicious sweet fruit Assortment of their favorite items to or chocolate dipped fruit gift boxes.

Big Green Egg gift for the holiday It’s the perfect gift to give your holiSpices & Sauces day host or to send to someone out season are the Big Total Value: of state.

Green Egg and all its $100 accessories. This comThere are two locations locally to plete outdoor cooking system serve you: Edible Valrico, 3455 Lithia is the only outdoor cooker you will ever Pinecrest Rd. Call 571-7200 and Edible need. It is the most versatile cooking Riverview, 10273 Big Bend Rd. Call device ever. It’s a grill, an oven and a 672-6111. Visit edible.com. smoker. You can cook anything from a turkey to baking a cake. It would make a A Gift Of Relaxation At Your Doorstep great gift or a great perDaniella’s sonal purchase so Mobile Massage that you can cook Gift Basket Item: offers deep tissue, up an amazing Happy Holiday neuromuscular, preholiday dinner.

Platter natal and sports Pinch a Total Value: massage. Daniella, Penny FishHawk $50 who is a licensed has a great selec-

Massage Therapist with 17 to check out some years of experience, offers new food and treats convenient mobile massage to keep them as with flexible scheduling. With healthy and happy a background in Physical as possible.

Therapy, she offers stress Specializing in holisrelief through therapeutic tic foods made from massage in the convenience real ingredients like of your home. meat, fish and She recommends that a healthful vegetagift certificate would be the bles, not byprodperfect gift for anyone on ucts, it offers a your list. great selection of To schedule your all-natural foods as well as unique, nat(de-stress holiday Gift Basket Item: ural chews and treats, including a appointment or to get One Hour Mobile frozen section featuring all-natural information on gift raw food diets. All the foods are Massage certificates, please American-made, corn, wheat, soy Total Value: call, 323-4901, email and gluten-free. You will find natural $65 dveten@gmail.com. remedies for worms, fleas and ticks.

Visit Daniellas Mobile Kim’s also offers a wide variety of Massage on Facebook. toys, dog and cat bedding, apparel and supplies.

Don’t Forget Your Pet’s In The Holiday Celebrations Your pets are part of the family and you don’t want them to miss out on the holiday celebrations.

Kim’s Natural Pet Foods has everything you need to give your pets happy, healthy lives, and there is no better time

Gift Basket Item: Pet Gift Basket Total Value: $100 Kim’s Natural Pet Foods is located at 3110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico (next to Subway). For more information, call 684-3663 or visit kimsnaturalpetfoods.com.

Page 27

Boat Tours & FastFrame For Gifts

By Michelle Colesanti

Riverview. Hours of operEnhance Your ation are Sunday and Photos At Fast Monday by appointment Frame For The Perfect Holiday Gift only with 24-hour notice Did you take a and Tuesday through Gift Basket special picture this year Saturday from 10 a.m.–8 p.m.

Item: while you spent time Share The Beauty Of Florida Two $40 Gift with your family, maybe With Your Friends And Family Cards for on vacation or at a speOn Latitudes Tours Framing cial event? Surprise Need a respite from all of the Total Value: your family this year with holiday celebrations?

Or maybe $80 a wonderful family picture you are looking for something fun to specially framed to order do with relatives who are visiting? commemorating this special Share the beauty of Florida by taking shared time.

Once you have that beautiful photo, a them on a Sunset Dinner Cruise or frame becomes part of the bigger picture, Dolphin and Manatee Tour. If you have a large group (up to 24) and want to so it’s important to make sure that it celebrate, you can book a private charbrings out the photo in just the right way. ter.

When customers bring in their personal Latitudes Tours also offers senior items and they are not sure about how to and veteran discounts and can accomdecorate their art, Fast Frame owner Alex modate special needs.

Roche helps to educate them on how to Gift certificates are also available enhance their item through framing. He and would make a great gift for family offers competitive pricing and has been and friends.

Call 641-1311 or visit latiassisting customers with frames for over tudestours.com.

28 years.

Fast Frame also offers oil paint stretches, shadow boxes, needle points, restoration and repairs and corporate art.

Gift Basket Fast Frame has been a part of the Item: community for 15 years. For more inforFamily 4-Pack mation, visit www.fastframe.com or call Eco Tour Roche at 655-6400. Fast Frame is locatTotal Value: ed at 6128 Winthrop Town Center Ave. in $100

Enter the Sweepstakes to win a prize basket of items from The Favorite Things Shop Local Campaign.

Why would you like to win the Shop Local Sweepstakes Basket?

Name: Address: Phone: Email: Community: Enter to win online at contest@opreyobserver.com, fax to 657-4469 or mail to 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico, FL 33596.

Also, enter by email at contest@ospreyobserver.com

We style your home so you love it, or stage it so someone else will! · Interior Decorating · Home Staging · Color Consultations

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Page 28

Pinch A Penny Offers Gift Certificates, Pool Gifts & Big Green Eggs

By Michelle Colesanti

Do you enjoy cooksizes, from extra large ing and barbecuing? If down to the MiniMax, so, this holiday season is which comes with an time for a new tradition. easy-to-grip carrier, so it FishHawk Pinch A is perfect as a tableside Penny owners Larry and cooker at your outdoor Kathy Rutledge said that party or a traveling EGG their favorite items to gift for motor homes or tailfor the holiday season gating. are the Big Green Egg Since pool season and all its accessories. never really ends in The Big Green Egg is a Florida, it is also a great complete outdoor cooktime to consider pool ing system; the only outitems or gift certificates door cooker you will ever Pinch A Penny’s Jimmy Rutledge for pool services as holistands with The Big Green Egg, day gifts. Consider a need. It is the most verone of his favorite items for satile cooking device nice basket of pool supholiday cooking, and a great gift ever, being a grill, an plies for your gift recipifor your favorite chef. oven and a smoker. You can cook your ents who own pools. Pinch A Penny turkey and bake the cake in it.

FishHawk has the best selection of supBlending ancient traditions and modplies, including liquid chlorine, tablets, ern technology, it is strong and durable pumps, filters and more. You can count and provides better heat insulation than on personal service from the Rutledge any other outdoor cooker on the market. family.

The Big Green Egg stands alone as Don’t miss Pinch A Penny’s sale from the most versatile barbecue and outdoor Thursday to Sunday, November 14-17. All cooking product on the market. You can Big Green Eggs and accessories will be make everything from pizza to ribs, or 10 percent off. holiday dinners and desserts. Whatever Stop by to get some great ideas. you choose, it will exceed all your expecHours are Monday to Saturday from 9 tations for culinary perfection. It is an a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m.-3 invaluable culinary tool for restaurant p.m. The FishHawk Pinch A Penny is chefs. located at 16715 FishHawk Blvd. in the The Big Green Eggs come in many Winn-Dixie plaza in Lithia. Call 655-3700.

Surprise Loved One With A Special Gift From McAuley Fine Jewelry

By Michelle Colesanti

This holiday season, whether you are planning to surprise your significant other with an engagement ring or just would like a custom piece of jewelry to give as a gift to your special someone, McAuley Fine Jewelry is a gem in the community and owner Ed McAuley, who has been in the business for many years, and the outstanding staff, many of which have been in the jewelry business for decades, will help you find the perfect piece that will enchant the bearer of your gift.

McAuley spent a decade as assistant manager at Martin Jewelers prior to opening McAuley’s Fine Jewelry. When Martins Jewelers closed, he took over becoming the owner and changing the name, but he kept all of the skilled staff.

His journey to the jewelry trade wound through other professions.

“I’ve sold things from insurance to appliances, but was miserable because these were things customers had to buy,” said McAuley.

McAuley’s is a one-stop-shop for all of your jewelry wants and needs. Custom

designs are a specialty at McAuley’s, but previously loved (consignment) jewelry is also sold. Watch and jewelry repairs are done on-site by experienced staff members. McAuley’s will also purchase gold from you.

Find it on Facebook at McAuley Fine Jewelry and enter its random drawing each month for a chance to win a featured piece of jewelry.

Gladys Zenquis recommended McAuley Fine Jewelry on Facebook. “We only have them take care of our jewelry. Not only the great customer service and communication, but also how they treat every piece of jewelry like if it was their own. If you’re going to be needing something fixed or even cleaned.... this is the place to come,” she commented.

Hours are Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Visit McAuley Fine Jewelry at 664 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. You can reach them at 689-8124. Visit www.mcauleyfinejewelry.com.

Page 29

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Page 30

Holiday Gift Guide

Get Into The Holiday Spirit At Fun Events

By Kathy L. Collins

There is no better way to get into the holiday spirit than to attend a Christmas tree lighting event. Check out all of the events coming up in December.

Downtown Plant City For Annual Lights of Love

On Thursday, December 5, come to historic downtown Plant City for the Annual Lights of Love.

This fantastic annual event includes a Christmas tree lighting ceremony in McCall Park located at 100 N. Collins St. The 24-foot tree is lit with lights purchased by area residents, organizations and businesses in honor of someone they have lost. The proceeds will benefit South Florida Baptist Hospital. You can get photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus at 5:30 p.m. The tree lighting ceremony will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Ginny Cozy of Valrico said, “The nostalgic feel of Plant City is the perfect backdrop for a Christmas tree lighting event.”

Plant City Annual Christmas Parade

Come back to Plant City on Friday, December 6 for the Annual Christmas Parade from 7 to 9 p.m. The parade begins at the intersection of Collins St. and Alsobrook St. in downtown Plant City.

The parade will run down Collins St., turn right on Reynolds Ave. and end just past the Plant City Courthouse. You can bring chairs and comfortably watch and be a part of this annual tradition in Plant City.

City of Tampa Annual Tree Lighting

The City of Tampa will hold its Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 6 at 6 p.m. in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in downtown Tampa. The event is free and includes a countdown to light the tree with Mayor Jane Castor.

Curtis Hixon Park is located at 600 N. Ashley St. in Tampa.

Downtown Tampa Christmas Parade

The Annual Downtown Tampa Christmas Parade will be held on the next day, Saturday, December 7, beginning at 11 a.m. The parade will wind throughout downtown, but the best place to view the parade is along Madison St. The parade will be followed by the Annual Santa Fest in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park from 12 Noon to 4 p.m.

Winthrop Annual Christmas Tree Lighting

On Friday, December 6, the community of Winthrop in Riverview will present its Annual Christmas Tree Lighting. This annual event is fun and free for the whole community. The event begins at approximately 6 p.m. The tree lighting will take place at approximately 7 p.m. A free holiday movie will follow. Winthrop Town Centre is located at the intersection of Bloomingdale Ave. and Providence Rd. in Riverview.

Are we missing a favorite event?

Email michelle@ospreyobserver.com and we’ll add it to the list.

Wonderland of Lights & Santa’s Village Hillsborough County Fairgrounds 215 Sydney Washer Rd Dover, FL Open November 28 ­ January 4, 2020 (Closed December 2, 3, 9 & 10)

After driving thru the beautiful lights, stop by Santa’s Village and Enjoy: • • • • • •

Hot Cocoa & Donuts Fried Dough Camel Rides Popcorn & Cotton Candy Funnel Cakes A selection of Fair foods & more

• North Pole Express Train Ride • Pony Rides • Horse Drawn Wagon Rides • Visit with The Wolves of the World • Free Comedy & Magic Show

Vehicles (up to eight passengers) $25 Visit our website for Drive Thru Tickets and to view our Show Schedule: www.thewonderlando"lights.com

Volume 23, Issue 12

December 2019

Holiday Gift Guide

Page 31

Center Place Presents Its Third Annual Christmas Card Lane

Families Welcome At 36th Annual Alafia Lighted Boat Parade & Chili Cook-Off

Center Place get such fantastic, Fine Arts & Civic upbeat advertising Association for an entire (Center Place) will month at the low kick off the holiday cost of $50? You season with its get to place your Third Annual giant Christmas Christmas Card card where everyLane. Local busione drives by and nesses, families, sees it. This artists and area shows true comorganizations will munity involveparticipate in this ment and brings Be among the many businesses and organiholiday event by holiday spirit to zations, including Winthrop Arts, who will parcreating giant holiBrandon." ticipate in Center Place's 3rd Annual Christmas Card Lane. Your special holiday day cards. The Rodriguez message will be seen by thousands as the cards will line the added, "Center cards are on display throughout the holiday streets along S. Place is dressing season.

Parsons Ave. and around Clayton Lake up the community for the holidays with near Center Place. The holiday cards an array of giant holiday cards. Load up will be on display from Monday, the car and bring the whole family to December 2 until New Year's Day. Center Place to see these giant, beautiTo create a card, please call Center ful cards."

Place at 685-8888. You can download Rodriguez said, "Everyone can parthe application by visiting www.centerticipate in this fun event. Organizations placebrandon.org. The entry fee is $50 including schools, civic organizations, with all funds raised benefitting Center neighborhood groups, scouts and famiPlace and its arts programming. All lies can create the cards and then cards must be picked up between scores of people will get to enjoy them Friday, January 3, 2020 and Monday, all season long."

January 6, 2020.

Center Place is a 501(c)(3) nonprofLisa Rodriguez, marketing director it that has been serving the Greater for Center Place, said, "This is a wonBrandon area since 1976. Center Place derful event for businesses to particiis located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in pate in and help the community celeBrandon. For more information on brate the holidays. Making your card Center Place, Christmas Card Lane and can be a team building experience. You other upcoming events, please visit get to create your own special message www.centerplacebrandon.org or call for the community. Where else can you 685-8888.

The Rotary Club nor elect 2020 for the of FishHawkRotary Club of Riverview is pleased FishHawk-Riverview. to announce the 36th “Our very generous annual Alafia Lighted sponsors help make Boat Parade and this event a success.”

Chili Cook-Off, which The title sponsor will be held on for this event Saturday, December The 36th annual Alafia Lighted is Christopher 7 from 5-8 p.m. at the Boat Parade is being held on Ligori & Saturday, December 7 Riverview Civic Associates, Center. There is nothing better than celeAttorneys At brating a Florida Christmas than sitting Law. Other along the river while watching the boats sponsors and community supporters adorned with holiday lights and music include River’s Edge Bar and Grill, Bill’s pass by on the water.

Prescription Center, Four Paws This family-friendly event is the perVeterinary Hospital, Fist Baptist fect way to jump start the joy of the holiRiverview, Serenity Meadows and days. In addition to the boat parade, you Hawthorne Village. will be able to sample and vote for your “We are a charitable organization, favorite chili at the Chili Cook-Off for a $5 and this event benefits the community,” donation. Santa will also be available for said Broussard. “We are looking for sponphotos and is taking notes on who is sors at several levels and boats to parade naughty and nice. down the Alafia for the benefit of many The parade of lighted boats will start onlookers.” at the 301 bridge at 5:45 p.m. and will There are several levels of sponsorcontinue past the Civic Center to 15 minship available and boaters are encourutes past the Beer Shed, then circling aged to participate by decorating their back to end at River’s Edge Bar and Grill, boats and partaking in the parade. Those where the award ceremony for the best who want to compete for prize money are decorated boats will be held. Last year, asked to donate $25, although boaters do more than 30 boats participated in the not have to compete to participate. The parade. Other activities during the best decorated boat will win $500 and evening will include a gingerbread house bragging rights. The Riverview Civic competition, a 50/50 raffle that will benefit Center is located at 11020 Park Dr. in county parks as well as music, fun and Riverview. For more info, contact Michael refreshments.

Broussard at michael.broussard@flyin“I enjoy seeing all the fun that the glocksmiths.com or visit www.alafiaboatfamilies have at this event every year,” parade.com, where you can register for said Michael Broussard, assistant goverthe events online.

By Kathy L. Collins

By Kelly Wise Valdes

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Holiday Gift Guide

Volume 23, Issue 12