Osprey Observer 2018-5 Christian Voice Monthly

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Volume 22, Issue 5

Mothers Day

Busch Gardens Camp

28

Summer Camp Special Section

May 2018

Newsome’s Fellowship Of Christian Students Club Ushers In Nights Of Worship On March 20 and April 17, Newsome’s Fellowship of Christian Students (FCS) Club, along with students from local youth groups, hosted two nights of Christian worship in the Newsome auditorium.

“Night of Worship was birthed in the hearts of two Newsome senior students who attend Fishhawk Fellowship Church,” said Paige Eilertson, an Above: Newsome FCS Club students host Christian Worship.

Area Right: Pastor Chris Greenwood from FishHawk Representative Fellowship gave the message. for Fellowship is because we had been praying of Christian about this event from the start.”

Athletes (FCA).

Eilertson continued, “I’m happy to “Chris Pinedo support and pray for students as they and Juliana shamelessly take the lead in lifting Valdes had the vision and asked for the the name of Jesus.” She continued, support from Newsome’s FCS Club.”

“I am excited that several students from The pair promoted and organized the other schools and homeschool attended.

Night of Worship through Newsome’s stuThe nights were a huge success.” dent-led club FCS, another title for FCA. Newsome’s Night of Worship continBoth nights of worship lasted for an hour ues to generate excitement across social and emphasized simplicity—worship media and is paving the way for other music, a message and prayer. schools to follow suit. Eighth-grader Tyler Valdes said, “Chris and I printed and Eads, the FCA president at Mulrennan cut out hundreds of cards to give to peoMiddle School, is organizing a Night of ple, and it also blew up on social media, Worship for all middle schoolers on Friday, especially Instagram.” She continued, “But May 11 at 7 p.m. at Mulrennan.

I feel like the reason we had a big turnout

By Amanda Boston

Valdes expressed, “It was so great when Tyler reached out to us after hearing about our Night of Worship, and he is now planning one at his school. I hope other schools will do the same.”

Valdes also spoke about the future of Newsome’s Night of Worship and said, “We felt it was important to do another one for the graduating seniors. We plan to make Night of Worship a

quarterly event and have plenty of juniors ready to take this over next year.”

Since 1945, the FCA has been making a positive impact in the schools and community. For more information about the local FCA, visit www.fcatampabay.org. For further questions on upcoming events, please contact Paige at Peilertson@fca.org.

Bay Life Supports Missions Through Annual Cars And Crafts Show See Our Special Pull Out Section

Vacation Bible Schools Page 18-19

Columns: GraceNotes:

Page 5

Your Monthly Catch: Page 6 Faith & Footprints:

Page 11

Hooked On Books:

Page 17

Bay Life Church will hold its 13th Annual Car Show and Craft Fair on Saturday, May 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on its church grounds.

The family-friendly event will feature more than 450 cars and Bay Life is expecting more than 450 cars at trucks, local craft this year’s car show. vendors, live fundraiser to supmusic, raffles, refreshments and child port missions. activities.

This year we are The Bay Life Car Show has going to become a staple in the community with Honduras, Africa, crowds reaching upward of 3,000 New York City guests. With an increasing number of and North attendees and displayed vehicles, the Georgia.” car show is a far cry from its humble In addition to beginning of only 20 cars. the hundreds of All makes and models of cars are cars on display, welcomed with more than 10 catethe event hosts gories receiving trophies. Although the live performances from Bay Life’s Car show car registration is free, Bay Life Show band, Legacy, which is comis requesting that car show participosed of musicians and artists from pants make a voluntary $10 donation the church. The band assembles to support missions. specifically for the car show and plays “The car show supports our high classic rock music and other tunes. school student and adult mission Other entertainment on site will include trips,” said Steve Schumm, Bay Life’s bounce houses and skits for the chilMission Director. “This is our largest dren, shopping and chances to win

By Amanda Boston

door prizes.

He continued, “The youth will be out there doing a lot of the work like taking car registration, entertaining children and selling food and raffle tickets. ” Participants may register their vehicles online at the Bay Life website or on the day of the event. Last year, due to its popularity, some cars had to be turned away because of space restrictions.

To register a vehicle or sign up to be a vendor, please visit www.baylife.org/bay-life-car-showcraft-fair/. For more information or questions, email missions@baylife.org.

Bay Life is located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon.

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Mission-Minded Bell Shoals Serves Those Here And Abroad

By Amanda Boston

“Finding ways to Shoals is meet the needs of a paractively living ticular group of people— out the Great both physical and spirituCommission. al—is an important part of He said, the missions efforts at Bell “Bell Shoals is Shoals Baptist Church,” involved in said Dr. Stephen missions in Rummage, senior pastor our of Bell Shoals Baptist ‘Jerusalem’ Church. right here in During 2018, Bell the Tampa Shoals Baptist area; ‘Judea’ Church will in the state of coordinate and Florida; conduct ‘Samaria’ in roughly 25 North America In March, Bell Shoals sent students on a mission trip to El and ‘the ends short-term Salvador. missions of the earth’ trips—both international and domestic. international.”

Upcoming international missions Short-term missions teams will have trips include North Africa, Romania, six team meetings before Bell Shoals Honduras, Toronto, India, South Africa deploys them. Future participants will and Cuba. train on how to evangelize and engage After last hurricane season, the with a different culture. Other areas of church dispatched hurricane relief mistraining encompass security measures, sions teams to Puerto Rico and Naples, teambuilding, raising funds and reinteFL. Likewise, Bell Shoals assisted the gration when their mission is complete. residents in the Lithia Springs area with “Missions start at home, then across flood recovery efforts after the Alafia the street and then around the world,” River flooded. explained Debbie Barton, director of misBell Shoals also consistently supsions at Bell Shoals. “If you are not servports multiple local missions including ing in any capacity, find a ministry and community food banks, children’s volunteer. God will use your availability homes, women’s ministries, rehabilitation for His good and bless you in the houses, prisons and pregnancy assisprocess.” tance ministries—just to name a few.

For more, contact missions@bellBobby Roberts, pastor of adult edushoals.com or call the office at 689-4229. cation and missions, used the Bible Bell Shoals Baptist Church is located at verse from Acts 1:8 to illustrate how Bell 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon.

Riding With Team Grace Cycling To Support MS Research

By Rebecca Weaver

Team Grace

Team Grace Cycling, sponsored in part by Grace Community United Methodist Church in Lithia, is preparing for this year’s Bike MS Citrus Tour on Saturday and Sunday, May 5-6. Over two days, Team Grace will be riding with approximately 1,000 other cyclists and volunteers between Fantasy of Flight (Polk City) and the Omni at Champions Gate (Orlando) and then back to Fantasy of Flight. Although cyclists will enjoy riding through the citrus groves of Old Florida, along beautiful lakes, and through ancient forests, the main reason they are riding is to increase awareness and raise funds to help support cutting-edge research, programs and services for everyone impacted by Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Team Grace is a group of friends, neighbors, and families from all over the central Florida area. They are casual recreational bike riders, cycling enthusiasts, non-riding volunteers, tri-athletes, and even people with MS who use their bikes for fitness, fun, and fundraising. The

total money raised for charities

by Team Grace is approximately $75,000, in less than one year. The goal for the Bike MS Citrus Tour is to raise $50,000 in the fight against MS. Team Grace’s Captain is FishHawk resident, Stephen Barone, who has been riding in Bike MS events for more than 15 years. He is proud of the over 35 riders and volunteers who will be participating in this year’s Bike MS Citrus Tour as well as other events throughout the year. “The Citrus Tour is our hallmark event. However, since we formed last winter, Team Grace riders have also participated in the Bike MS Cycle to the shore between Jacksonville and Daytona; Bike MS Breakaway to Key Largo between Miami and Key Largo; the American Diabetes Association Tour de Cure and Plant City YMCA’s Dean’s Ride. We ride most weekends from FishHawk and sometimes we travel to ride at the many great cycling locations in the Tampa area.

We have a great group who enjoy spending time together.”

To sign up to ride or volunteer, or to make a donation, visit main.nationalmssociety.org/goto/TeamGr ace2018. Team Grace can be contacted at info@mygraceumc.com.

Grace United Methodist Church is located at 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia. Discover grace at www.mygraceumc.com.

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Page 4 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2018

Bay Life’s Kidapalooza Ministry Celebrates 10 Years Of Free Programs

By Amanda Boston

With 10 years “We’re trying in the making, to get kids to look Bay Life’s up from themKidapalooza has selves and see become THE God as their summer Vacation leader,” explained Bible School Stough. “We want (VBS) to attend. It them to look to merges the merriGod in their cirment and excitecumstances because He is ment of the televigreater than all sion network their circumNickelodeon with Throughout the week, children learn about the hope and love Jesus’ love through song, dance, Bible stories stances.” and games. of Jesus Christ.

As Stough Kidapalooza will run from Monday, oversees the outreach, the rest of the June 11 through Friday, June 15 from church comes alongside her to execute 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Bay Life Church with the operation. Stough noted that many doors opening at 6 p.m. The free fun is middle and high schoolers that enjoyed for children entering kindergarten through attending Kidapalooza also return as volthose entering sixth grade. unteers.

“Every year we create a place for Throughout the week, children are kids that is different from other VBS expe- given an opportunity to accept Christ as riences,” said Wendy Stough, Elementary their Savior. According to the Stough, witnessing these children choose to follow Director at Bay Life. “It [Kidapalooza] Christ is what makes all the long hours started with about 150 kids, and now we have close to 900 kids and 350 volunand work worth it. teers.”

“When you work in children’s minKidapalooza is a slime-filled, highistry, you plant these seeds, but you don’t energy experience featuring bouncy hous- always know if their lives have been es, obstacle courses, indoor and outdoor changed. So when we see a child games, live music, crazy dancing, and of choose Christ, it is worth the time, and it course, time learning about Jesus. is worth the exhaustion,” she said.

Stough is the brains behind To register, visit www.baylife.org/kpa.

Kidapalooza. Each year Stough conIf registered by the end of May, children ceives an overarching theme and then will receive a free t-shirt.

For questions, contact Wendy writes the curriculum. This year’s overall theme is ‘Look Up’ with each day’s teach- Stough at 661-3696 Ext. 230 or wstough@baylife.org. Bay Life is located ing corresponding to different reasons at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon. why they should look up to God.

Award-Nominated Indie Full-Length Film, Hearts of Mercy, Premieres in Tampa The International Consecrated Marian Society hosted a screening of the new, independent, faith-based film Hearts of Mercy on Friday, April 6 at the Centro Asturiano de Tampa Historic Theatre located in Ybor City. The event included a Red Carpet VIP Reception with priority seating and a ‘Meet the Stars’ after party.

Filmed locally in Tampa at various sites throughout the Diocese of St. Petersburg, Hearts of Mercy is based on the experiences of a Christian woman who communicates with Mary, Mother of Jesus, through visions and dreams. The docudrama follows the lead character, Lina, through a fantastic journey into the spiritual realm as she tries to make sense of her supernatural encounters.

As her faith grows deeper and her prayers become more powerful, she finds herself an outcast and an object of ridicule, gossip and hatred in the community. The film explores these issues and identifies how our reliance on faith and prayer affects our daily lives, relationships, addictions and even our health.

“The entire process has been a powerful experience for everyone involved in this project,” said Executive Producer Celina Okpaleke, who resides in the Tampa Bay area along with a majority of

Staff Report

the actors. “It was like conducting an orchestra using the best musicians in the world. The entire production has been an awesome walk of faith.”

Stuart Mackey, owner of Mackey Productions in Brandon, edited the film. His company assists local businesses and organizations increase its brand awareness and recognition through video content. Hearts of Mercy was Mackey Production’s first featurelength film edit.

“Celina and I are continuing to refine the edit of the film,” said Mackey. “Movies are rarely done at the first premiere when they are small independent films like this one.

She is hopeful that she will be able to pick up a distributor soon.”

The Tampa premiere launched a series of national and international screenings, which will take place in 25 major cities including Miami, Atlanta, New York, Chicago and Los Angeles as well as Lagos, Nigeria; London, England; and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

For more information about the movie, visit www.heartsofmercymovie.com or email info@heartsofmercymovie.com. For more information about Mackey Productions, visit www.mackeyproductions.com.

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Grace Notes

W W W

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O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R

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C O M

FOLLOW US: 918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Brandon, FL 33511 657-2418 (fax) 657-4469

What Do You Want for Mother’s Day?

By Debora Coty

Every year I new person sitting on my have this question knee, happy to spend casually lobbed at hours on end together me from my crazyreading “I’ll love you forevbusy kids and er, my baby you’ll be …” grands. My answer? and singing at the top of “Not a thing. Nobody our lungs, “Jesus loves sells what I want.” me, this I know …”

Of course they And I want – no, I are baffled (and need – to hear you laugh. I miffed at my ‘uncoloved your laughter. More operation’) because than anything. I still do, they had just that in although it’s harder now to mind – a thing. illicit a chuckle from you as Pretty jewelry, a botyou fly about, the slave of tle of pricey perfume, your to-do list. a colorful bouquet, a I understand, I truly case of Cadbury with do. I empathize. I fear that almonds (hey, I’m you learned the tyranny of Debora Coty and her grandkids. the to-do list from me. And trying to cut down) … a thing. Some I don’t begrudge you a sinspecial trinket to demonstrate their love gle smidgeon of time or energy spent for me. elsewhere. The necessity of living. Of I get it. It’s the simplest solution to raising your own family. the same question I asked my grandma But I do miss you. You’ve always and still do ask my mama (now almost been my favorite. Among the thousands 90) on Mother’s Days past. of children I’ve interfaced with in my lifeBut if anyone had the time to sit a time, you’re the one who lifts my heart spell, sip a cup of hot spiced tea with me and makes me feel young and vivacious and look me squarely in the eyes, I’d give and full of hope once again. them the long answer. The real answer.

So it’s true, dear piece of my heart.

I want your presence, my darling On this special day to honor mothers, I child. I want to be with you, to have your don’t want a thing. I have too many undivided attention, even for ten straight things already. I would rather you not minutes. I want to hear about the spend a penny of your hard-earned nuances of your day, to share your trimoney on me; use it for the needs of umphs and near-tragedies, to see the your precious growing family. That would light sparkle in your eyes and feel Papa give me the most joy and fulfillment.

God’s strength flowing through you.

But if you can somehow find a spare I want to revel in your uniqueness minute or two, please … come sit a spell. and bask in the special qualities I was Debora M. Coty is an inspirational speaker privileged to help you develop, which you and award-winning author of over 40 casually exude today with no notion of books, including the bestselling Too Blessed your incredible-ness in my eyes. to be Stressed series. Visit with Debora anyI want the depth of your gaze to time at www.DeboraCoty.com. transport me back to a watercolor time when you were a tiny, squishy, brand

7 © Copyright 2012-2013 - Osprey Observer, Inc. No reproduction without written permission.

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Page 6 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2018

Your Monthly Catch Local Happenings In Our Community Annual Prolife Spaghetti Dinner

A Prolife Spaghetti Dinner will be held on Saturday, May 19 at Resurrection Catholic Church, 6819 Krycul Ave. in Riverview. The dinner is sponsored by Knights of Columbus Council 15675.

Dinner starts at 5:45 p.m. and is ‘all you can eat.’

Tickets cost $8 in advance and $10 at the door. Children under 7 are free. For tickets, contact Alex at 956-3709 or Fran at 641-9109 or stop by the Parish office.

Cedarkirk Offers A Free Afternoon To Learn About Its Summer Camps

Enjoy Fashion Show And Luncheon With Brandon Christian Women’s Connection

The Brandon Christian Women's Connection luncheon for May will hold its annual Fashion Show presented by The Dress Barn. It will take place Monday, May 14 from 11 a.m.-1.p.m. at the Special Event Center at Bell Shoals Baptist Church, 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon.

This is a nondenominational luncheon and all ladies are invited. The cost is $15. First time guests pay $10. Please make a reservation before Monday, May 7 with Lillie at 740-0098.

Mark your calThe Greater Brandon endars for Meals On Wheels Saturday, May 12 Program Honors Its for a free afterVolunteers noon of fun at Cedarkirk Camp The 2018 Greater and Conference Brandon Meals on Center. This event Wheels (MOW) Volunteer will be held from 1of the Year Award was 5 p.m. and offers presented to Elena LaRussa from First fun for all ages and a taste of Presbyterian Church of Brandon. what a day of Guy Futral, the summer camp is From left to right is Barbara Brooks, a like. You are welboard member, Elena LaRussa, the President of Greater recipient of the Volunteer of the Year Brandon MOW presented come to zip-line Award, and Guy Futral, the President the award to LaRussa at through the treeof the Greater Brandon Meals on the 42nd Annual tops, explore our Wheels.

Luncheon held on disc golf course, tackle the climbing wall, hike the property, Thursday, April 5 at the First Baptist Church of Dover. More than two hundred take a walking or hayride tour, toast a s’more over a campfire, or simply relax in MOW volunteers attended the luncheon and were also recognized for their serva rocking chair on the porch of Cedar ice to the community.

Lodge. Hot dogs will be available for purThe Brandon Area MOW program chase. No reservation is needed—just show up and have fun. started 42 years ago through a cooperative effort of Limona Village Chapel and Whether you would like to try Cedarkirk for the first time this summer to St. Andrew's United Methodist learn more about the camp experience or Church. The program has grown to have been coming to the camp for years, include 19 area churches and currently prepares, serves and delivers approxiwe hope to see you.

For more information about the open mately 250 hot meals per day from Monday through Friday in the house, please contact the camp office at info@cedarkirk.org or 685-4224 ext. 2. Brandon community.

For more information on MOW, Cedarkirk Camp is located at 1920 Streetman Dr. in Lithia. please visit www.brandonmealson-

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Vendors will be present too.

The Health Fair takes place at 2808 S. Kingsway Rd. in Seffner.

For more information, contact Yolanda Mitchum, RN, BSN at 352-615-4552 or yolandamitchum@aol.com.

Lithia Man Who Leads Christian Men's Ministry Honored For Volunteerism

As part of AT&T’s recognition of National Volunteer Week, the company recognizes Carl Dr. Al Mohler To Shack Jr. of Lithia with Speak At Bell Shoals’ the President’s Volunteer Brandon Campus Service Award (PVSA).

Dr. Al Mohler, presiThe PVSA recognizes individuals who dent of Southern Baptist Carl Shack Jr. of Lithia received Theological Seminary, is demonstrate a commitAT&T Volunteer Service Award. ment to volunteerism one of the most soughtthroughout the year. Stack, an AT&T proafter speakers and thinkers in the evanfessional systems administrator, is gelical world.

He has been recognized by such among 4,386 AT&T employees nationwide to receive this honor. To receive this influential publications as Time and Christianity Today as a leader among honor, an employee must log a minimum American evangelicals. In of 100 service hours. fact, Time.com called him the “reigning In 2017, Shack volunteered more intellectual of the evangelical movement than 500 hours leading Christian Men in the U.S.” United, a Christian men’s organization He has appeared which aims to help on such national pastors of local news programs as churches build and CNN’s Larry King Live preserve unity by and AC360, NBC’s encouraging men to Today Show and be men of God. Dateline NBC, ABC’s Shack said he Good Morning believes God has America, The placed this calling NewsHour with Jim within him. He said, “I Lehrer on PBS, just have a heart for MSNBC’s unity, first among Scarborough Country God’s collective and Fox’s The church, and second O’Reilly Factor. the world as a whole.”

"Every time I hear Nationwide, AT&T Dr. Mohler, God uses employees volunAl Mohler him to stretch my faith teered more than 1.78 and to deepen my commitment to live for million hours of time in community outChrist in today's culture," said Dr. reach activities during 2017.

Stephen Rummage, the senior pastor at Exalted Word Ministries Presents First Bell Shoals. "He is a compelling speaker with a heart for truth. I can’t wait for him Seffner Community Health Fair to be with us in May!" A Community Health Fair will be He will speak on Wednesday, May 2 sponsored by Exalted Word Ministries on at 7 p.m. in the Worship Center on the Saturday, May 5 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. This Brandon Campus. is a family event so bring your children.

His message is free and open to the Free services will be available: community.

Bell Shoals Baptist Church is Healthy Food Pre/Taste Seminar, Mini located at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Olympics for Kids, Pre Diabetic Brandon. Call 689-4299.

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Page 7 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2018

By Kathy L. Collins

Student Gives Back To Community, One ‘Sole’ At A Time

Krazy Kup, an owned Krazy Kup for authentic almost five years. Krazy European/Greenwich Kup was named the Village inspired cof2018 Business of the fee house, is located Year by the Plant City at 101 EJ Arden Chamber of Commerce.

Mays Blvd. in historic It was a dream of Frank and Wenda's to downtown Plant City. open an authentic cofIn addition to serving fee house. "When we up delicious espressaw the building, we so drinks, baked were not sure what to goods and wraps, do with the second Krazy Kup offers a floor," said Frank. They fantastic venue for dreamed of having a live music, especially place like the ones for young, emerging where such as Bob musicians.

Dylan got their start.

On Friday nights Krazy Kup, a great and authentic Frank has a backfrom 6:33 to 8:33 coffee house located in historic ground in music, so p.m., Krazy Kup downtown Plant City. they decided to use the offers Christian second floor to give young musicians a genre music. On the first Friday of each venue where they could perform. month, you can catch a lively Christian Several bands, including DBMK and Music Jam. On Saturday nights from Jenny Weaver got 8:33 to 10:33 p.m. Krazy their start at Krazy Kup offers all genre Kup. "We are blessed of music. On the first to be able to provide Saturday of each this venue," said month, you can join Frank. "This is such a in on a Bluegrass great place to hear Jam. The Jams are local talent.” an opportunity for Krazy Kup is an musicians to come exceptional venue complete with state of together, make music the art equipment. If you are interested and have fun. in finding out which bands will be perBands who come to Krazy Kup can forming at Krazy Kup, please like them repeat three times per year. on Facebook and visit Krazy Kup is owned and operated

by Frank and Wenda Trunzo. They have www.krazykup.com.

Camden Grant Champagne-Bumberg, looks like your ordiand after brainstorming nary 8th grader at ideas, they came up Randall Middle with Soles Shaping School, except she is Souls. anything but ordinary.

Soles Shaping Her school is a huge Souls is a donation drive proponent of service aimed at gaining funding learning projects, and to provide each student on Randall’s annual at BTWE a “brand new service learning day in pair of ‘soles’ before January, she had the summer break, so that opportunity to attend their ‘souls’ can run, Booker T. Washington Camden Grant, 8th grader at Randall jump, and play all sumElementary (BTWE) Middle School is the Soles Shaping mer.” Grant has partSouls Organizer. for a day of volunteernered with BTWE and ing. She went in with the Randall’s Parent Teacher game plan to teach a readStudent Association in ing lesson, but she came addition to setting up a out with an idea to make a GoFundMe page in order lasting impression on her to reach her goal of providcommunity. ing shoes for all students.

Grant said, “I could tell She plans to visit the how special this opportunity school in April to create a was to them. They had big sign up for gender and smiles on their faces, but I shoe sizes in order to have couldn’t help notice that these kids an accurate picture of student deserved more than just one day needs. of my time.” Ninety-nine percent of Corporate sponsorships, comBTWE students are on free or munity donations of new shoes, or reduced lunch, which indicates any gift are welcome and apprethat families may struggle financiated. For more information, cially. Grant noticed many of reach out via email to them wearing shoes that didn’t SolesShapingSouls@yahoo.com fit properly or seemed to have or visit them on Instagram been handed down so many times that @SolesShapingSouls. To make a donathey began to fall apart. That day she tion, visit the GoFundMe Page: went home to her mother, Laurie www.gofundme.com/soles-shaping-souls.

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Page 8 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2018

Local Author Publishes Book Chronicling Historic Tampa Churches

By Amanda Boston

icance of the congregations and their contributions to the city.”

He continued, “The documentation along with recognition is important as many don’t realize that Metropolitan Ministries, the largest organization that helps the poor in Tampa, was established by the churches in Tampa.”

The book positioned the churches geographically by their neighborhoods so it St. Joseph Catholic Church has could couple been John Cinchett’s family church since 1905. It is the oldest Catholic as a guidechurch west of the Hillsborough book for sightRiver, established in 1896. seeing.

Considered a labor of love, the book was four years in the making with most of the effort geared toward research.

“You would think that a 100-year-old church would have a lot of historical information, but that was not always the case,” explained Cinchett. “Over the years, information had either been lost or Organist and Author John Cinchett has misplaced. In many cases, I was in served as organist at Tampa churches since the church basement or attic digging 1985. through files and boxes to locate the Local author John Cinchett is historical information.” somewhat of an anomaly. He is a Historic Tampa Churches is part of third-generation Tampa native. Like its Arcadia Publishing’s Images of author, Cinchett’s new history book America series. Cinchett has also pubalso deviates from the expected. lished two other history books through In his third history book titled, the same series, Vintage Tampa Signs Historic Tampa Churches, Cinchett and Scenes in 2008 and Vintage features 52 of Tampa’s oldest churchTampa Storefronts and Scenes in es spanning from the 1800s to the 2012. In addition to history books, early 1900s. His work of art captivates Cinchett is a history columnist for two readers with its engaging storylines Tampa newspapers La Gaceta and the that correspond to more than 230 vinPennysaver. tage images.

The new book retails for $21.99 The book was spawned after disand can be purchased locally at Bill's covering that his great-grandparents Prescription Center located at 202 E. also attended his place of worship, St. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon and at Joseph Catholic Church in Tampa.

Barnes & Noble Bookseller stores. The Furthermore, the history writer’s enthu- book is also available online at siasm for the project was bolstered by www.amazon.com and www.arcadiahis 33 years as an organist and music publishing.com. minister for the Catholic Diocese.

For more information or to preview “There’s nothing else out there the first chapter, please visit the site quite like this book,” said Cinchett. “I directly at call it a book of celebration because www.arcadiapublishing.com/Products/9 we are celebrating the historical signif- 781467128315.

Live Like You Mean It

Does Being A Good Person Make Me A Christian?

By Derek Maul

This week I to Christ’s invitation talked with someto become a disciple A Christian is someone that leads to such one who believes who has accepted the ‘Christian’ is interevidence in our lives. teachings of Jesus and changeable with Many people made a commitment to want it to be true that being good, kind, generous, comsimply being good follow as a disciple. passionate, humand doing good will ble. I understand result in life everlastthe point, because the fruit – or the ing, no matter what religion we evidence – of the work of the Spirit in choose. All I know is that “I know the someone’s life is exactly that one in whom I’ve placed my trust, and (patience, kindness, goodness, selfI’m convinced God is powerful enough control etc. – Galatians 5:22-23) to protect what he has placed in my But the word ‘Christian’ is not trust until that day” (2 Timothy 1:12). intended to describe someone’s charA Christian is someone who acter. If it was, then an atheist or a accepts Christ’s invitation and follows Muslim or a Hindu who is kind and the Way. If that decision does not lead generous and humble and gentle and us to love, and good works, and evicompassionate would be, “just as dence of the fruit of the Spirit, then it Christian” (or more so) than the averwouldn’t surprise me for a minute to age person who has been baptized hear Jesus say, “Who are you? I never and joined a church. even knew you…”

But that’s not what Christianity is.

I wouldn’t presume to speak for A Christian is someone who has God, but I do know this: I know that accepted the teachings of Jesus and Jesus will speak for me, and – if only made a commitment to follow as a dis- you ask – I know Jesus would speak ciple. for you too.

We can reasonably expect that folDerek Maul has written for many news lowing Jesus should lead to compasoutlets, including the Tampa Tribune, sion and kindness and goodness and The United Methodist News Service, All more. That makes good sense Pro Dad, FOCUS Magazine, because Jesus was quite clear that, Newsweek, USA Today, The Christian “Some people say ‘Lord, Lord’… but I Science Monitor, Presbyterians Today, don’t even know them!” (Matthew Guideposts, Chicken Soup for the Soul 7:21-23) and many other publications. Read But it’s not the behavior that Derek Maul’s daily blog posts at makes the Christian - it’s responding www.derekmaul.wordpress.com

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Page 9 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2018

Local Elementary Student And Grandpa Publish Adventure Book

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Writing and publishChristian is not only ing a book is no easy an adventure-seeking feat, but local sevenfirst-grade student and a year-old Christian Patrick first-time author, but he is no ordinary first gradand his grandfather er. Along with his grandhave plans to turn their father, Patrick Carberry, adventures into a series they co-authored an of books. In his spare adventure book that is time, some of sure to take its readers Christian’s favorite on a fun-filled explothings to do are to sing ration. and to spend time with PaPa and his grandfather.

Christian’s Great "I like anything that I Adventures – The do with my PaPa," said PaPa and Christian’s Great Treasure Awaits! tells the Christian. “We may Adventures – The Treasure story of how young write about our campAwaits! was co-authored by local Christian is helping his resident and grandfather, Patrick ing and fishing advenCarberry and his 7-year-old PaPa do yard work tures next.” grandson, Christian. when he moves a rock Carberry hopes this and finds a treasure map. The treasure book inspires families to find adventures awaits, but it is hiding. PaPa and of their own and spend time together havChristian begin their quest by following ing fun. The book targets audience rangthe map and trying to find the buried ing from 5-10 years old and is an exceltreasure. This is the first of many great lent book for grandparents and grandchiladventures that PaPa and Christian dren to read together. share.

“I encourage anyone with a young Carberry and Christian were inspired child to read the book,” said Carberry. “I to write this book because of the many look forward to working on other chilexciting adventures they share spending dren’s books with my creative grandson.” quality time together. Carberry is an army PaPa and Christian’s Great veteran who works for the government.

Adventures – The Treasure Awaits! is a He spends his spare time with his family great gift idea for Father's Day and is and runs a family-based nonprofit called available at www.lulu.com and www.amaJoshuacord.org, which helps persecuted zon.com. The eBook version is also availChristians in the Middle East and Africa. able on Amazon's Kindle and Barnes and "I was inspired [to write the book] by Noble. my grandson who has a love for advenFor more information, visit their ture and curiosity," said Carberry. “Writing Facebook page at the book was a wonderful experience.” www.facebook.com/papaandchristian/.

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Page 10 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2018

BAPTIST Bay Life Church 1017 Kingsway Ave., Brandon (813) 661-3696 Bell Shoals Baptist Church 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon (813) 689-4229 Bell Shoals - Apollo Beach Campus 6414 Golf and Sea Blvd., Apollo Beach (813) 641-2222 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 Temple 2909 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 689-7190 Journey Church 1310 John Moore Rd., Brandon (813) 699-8262 Shiloh Baptist Church 1104 Cason St., Plant City (813) 752-8345 South Bay Baptist Church 13498 US 301 S., Riverview 813-677-0721 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 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 Destiny Church 2322 11th Ave. SE, Ruskin (813) 645-3337 Centerpoint Church 1801 S. Miller Rd., Valrico (813) 689-1906 Grace Community Church 1425 N Valrico Rd., Valrico (813) 689-9781

Harvest Bible Chapel Bloomingdale High School 813-699-0517 Life Church at FishHawk 6420 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Lithia (813) 681-6503 Love First Christian Center 12847 Balm Riverview Rd., Riverview 813-671-2009 River of Life Christian Center 6605 Krycul Ave, Riverview 813-677-4453 The Chapel at FishHawk 6026 Churchside Dr. Lithia 813-661-7105 The Crossing Church - Main Campus 10130 Tuscany Ridge Dr., Tampa, (813) 626-0783 The Crossing Church - SouthShore 3058 East College Ave., Ruskin (813) 626-0580 The Palms Church 207 New Hope Rd., Brandon (813) 841-9598 True Sanctuary 6528 US Hwy 301 S., Suite 114, Riverview (813) 319-5862 PENTECOSTAL HighPoint Church of Brandon 2207 Lithia-Pinecrest Rd., Valrico/Brandon (813) 685-4827 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Brandon -PCUSA 121 Carver Ave., Brandon (813) 689-4597 Redeemer Church-PCA 12404 Boyette Rd., Riverview (813) 741-1776 Westminster Presbyterian Church PCA 402 E. Lumsden Rd., Brandon (813) 689-6541

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Page 11 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2018

Calvary Church Starts Services At Kids Community College In Riverview

By Michael Smith

By Kelly Wise Valdes

The holy chapel is reported to house the sacred Ark of the Covenant and is adjacent to the seventeenth-century structure of St. Mary of Zion in Ethiopia, shown on the right.

Christianity has a long and deep history in Africa, especially in Ethiopia where the religion was first introduced back in the first century A.D. This makes Ethiopia one of the first countries in the world to embrace the Christian religion. Because of this, there are many ancient and magnificent churches in Ethiopia. Of all the churches in Ethiopia, the most famous is The Church of St. Mary of Zion, which not only has impressively ancient roots but is also said to house the Ark of the Covenant.

In the fourth century, two Syrian monks led the King of Axum, Ethiopia to the Christian faith. The king is recognized as a saint in both the Ethiopian Orthodox and Catholic churches.

It was around this time, that the Church of St. Mary was first built in Axum. Axum was the first Christian kingdom in the world and the largest outside the Roman Empire. It was positioned on the caravan trade routes to Arabia, Nubia and Egypt. The church stood for hundreds of years before its destruction in the sixteenth century.

In 1635, St. Mary of Zion was reconstructed on the ruins of the church that had been destroyed by the Muslims, and it still stands today.

Although invaded many times by surrounding Islamic countries, Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity regards itself as a fortress against Islam.

The seventeenth century rebuild of the church is a low, square structure surrounded by a colonnade, used by dancing priests during church services.

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It has fortress-like walls that reflect the past violence in the region and a remarkable interior of colorful murals and paintings. Foundation stones of the original fourth century St. Mary's Church can still be seen on the site.

The emperors of Ethiopia were all crowned here, and until 1930, criminals could receive sanctuary in the church by ringing the porch bell.

In 1955, the emperor built a new Church of St. Mary of Zion next to the old one. It was completed in 1964.

Unlike the original St. Mary of Zion, the new St. Mary of Zion allows entrance to women.

The most notable curiosity of the church is that it claims to contain the original Ark of the Covenant. In 1965, a holy chapel was built next to Old St. Mary's to house the revered artifact.

The Ark was reportedly moved to the chapel adjacent to the old church because a divine heat from the Tablets was cracking the structure of the newly built church.

According to tradition, only the guardian monk may view the Ark per the biblical accounts of the dangers of doing so. The guardian monk is appointed for life by his predecessor before the predecessor dies. The guardian monk is confined to the chapel of the Ark of the Covenant for the rest of his life, praying before it and offering incense.

Many travel and tour companies offer tours of the Ethiopian churches in the region, including St. Mary's. For more information, visit www.timelessethiopia.com/tours.

A new ship conference Southern Baptist featuring New Convention Orleans Baptist church plant, Theological Calvary Church, is Seminary profesmeeting at Kids sors and local Community ministers, and led College (KCC) an annual marSoutheast in riage retreat that Riverview.

Photo Courtesy Of David Jasper grew from four The church couples to more David Jasper is pastor of Calvary Church, which meets at KCC Southeast in Riverview. than 30 couples gathers on Tuesday nights at 7 p.m. at KCC, which in its fifth year. is located at 11519 McMullen Road.

Jasper next served as executive pasCalvary Church pastor David Jasper tor of The View Church from 2013 to said he saw the need for churches to 2015. There he implemented a small reach the Riverview community and felt group strategy that saw the church’s God calling him to plant a church in the morning Bible study grow from two memarea. After several months of praying and bers to 15. During Jasper’s tenure The receiving godly counsel from fellow pasView experienced four baptisms, its first tors, he submitted to God for the task of in at least three years. becoming a church plant Jasper and pastor.

Calvary Church, which Calvary received finanhas baptized three cial startup funds from the people, see the imporFlorida Baptist Convention tance of giving back to in 2015, is part of the Tampa the community. They Bay Baptist Association and support LifeCare is affiliated with Converge, a movement Network through baby supply drives and of over 1,300 churches working to help attending the annual LifeCare Gala. For people meet, know and follow Jesus. the past two years, Calvary has partJasper served 20 years in the U.S. nered with KCC Southeast to provide Navy before being honorably discharged Thanksgiving dinner boxes and in 2005. He served as men’s ministry Christmas gift cards from Walmart to famdirector at Riverview’s Simmons Loop ilies identified by the school in need of Baptist Church in 2011 and 2012. While assistance. Calvary also provides monthat Simmons Loop, he planned and direct- ly meals for KCC’s teachers and staff. ed the church’s first Royal Ambassadors’ Visit its website at www.riverviewcaltwo-week summer camp, with 21 boys vary.org or email participating. He also conducted a leader- riverviewcalvary@gmail.com.

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Page 12 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2018

Achieve Overall Wellness With Healthy Bodies Medical And Dental Center

By Amy Schechter

In a busy Martha Ducatel world, it can be guarantees; their easy to neglect comprehensive your health and approach wellness when ensures you will family, friends, have the time to and responsibilirelate your conties come callcerns and craft a ing. Healthy plan that puts you Bodies Medical on the path to and Dental lifelong wellness.

Center seeks to Dr. M. provide excellent Ducatel offers care as well as general dental Join the Ducatel Family at Healthy Bodies the convenience services such as Medical and Dental Center in Brandon. of medical and preventative care dental services in one location. Dr. and cleanings, implants, bridges, crowns, Watson Ducatel, board certified in Internal filings, extractions, root canals, and Medicine and a Fellow of the American whitening or veneers. Anesthesia is College of Osteopathic Internists, and his offered where needed to make your denwife, Dr. Martha Ducatel, a general dental services comfortable and anxiety free. tist, are committed to getting to know their As an internist, Dr. W. Ducatel is commitpatients and working together to craft ted to a hands on approach for diagnoshealth plans that lead to healthier, happier ing and treating disorders of the internal lifestyles. organs and musculoskeletal system. He Their lives interwoven since college, offers well and sick visits, health coachthe Ducatels have a shared vision for ing, obesity and tobacco cessation countheir practice: “In corporate America and seling, chronic illness management, diagin the medical or dental field, there is a nostic and laboratory services, and hospitransactional nature across doctor/patient tal services. interactions. Peoples’ options are often The practice offers plans for patients sub-standard. Our desire is to have relawith or without insurance. There is truly a tionships with patients where we can program for anyone, no matter your situaunderstand their unique positions and tion. For more information, call 540-5005 craft a better healthcare experience.” or email hello@healthybodiesmdc.com.

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Page 13 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2018

Rahab – From Harlot to Heroine

By God’s Grace Throughout the Bible, there are many stories of strong and heroic women.

In this series, we explore a story of faithful biblical woman each month. With their strong faith, the women of the Bible continue to teach us how to live authentic, faith-filled lives.

No matter what our circumstances are, we can find ourselves in their stories.

The book of Joshua introduces one of the most unusual and thought-provoking heroines of the Old Testament.

Rahab, a prostitute of the Canaanite city of Jericho, is known for helping the Israelites defeat the pagan city of Jericho and for her place in the lineage of Jesus Christ. Rahab’s story begins during the invasion of the city of Jericho by the Israelites.

Jericho was a large Canaanite fortress city, and it was directly in the path of the Israelites, God’s chosen people, who had just crossed the Jordan River.

Before proceeding into battle, Joshua sent two spies into Jericho. The king of Jericho heard two Israelite spies were in the city and sent troops to search for them.

Although Jericho was a fortress, the less-fortunate people lived outside of the walls of Jericho. Rahab and her family were poor and ran a tavern right outside of Jericho’s walls. Rahab was known to be a prostitute, and many men visited the tavern. One evening, two strangers came into her establishment. She was a smart woman and realized that these men were spies. She knew there would probably be an attack on Jericho and would have to take action to survive. She told the spies how the citizens of Jericho had been fearful of the Israelites ever since the

By Kelly Wise Valdes\

Egyptians were defeated during the Red Sea saga. She agreed to help the spies escape, if she and her family were spared in the upcoming battle.

Rahab hid the two men on the flat roof of her house, under large bundles of flax. When the soldiers arrived to look for the spies, Rahab told them that they were not there. The soldiers searched the tavern, but Rahab had hidden the spies well. The spies agreed to protect her and her family but explained that she must hang a scarlet rope out of the window so the Israelites would know which home to spare.

The Israelites crossed the Jordan into Canaan and attacked the city of Jericho.

The city was destroyed with only Rahab and her family spared. Ultimately, Rahab married Salmon, an Israelite from the tribe of Judah. Her son was Boaz, the husband of Ruth. Joseph, the adoptive father of Jesus, is her direct descendant.

Rahab was not a likely candidate for a hero of the faith. She was a prostitute in a corrupt, pagan city that was under God's condemnation. Spiritually, Rahab was not in an ideal circumstance to come to faith in God. However, Rahab had heard that Israelites were God’s chosen people. Her actions to save the spies and align with God’s people saved her and her family.

Like Rahab, once we become Christians our pasts are forgiven, the slate is wiped clean. Rahab was no longer viewed as an unclean prostitute, but as one worthy through God's grace to be part of the lineage Jesus. The life of Rahab is an inspiring story for all sinners who have been saved by grace.

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Page 14 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2018

Sports

Connection

657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com

By Nick Nahas

DeJesus Takes Over As Bell Shoals JV Head Basketball Coach Tara DeJesus moved up to be the head JV basketball coach at Bell Shoals Baptist Academy this season, after being an assistant a couple of years prior. She played high school basketball at Rabun Gap Nacoochee School in Georgia. “I’m appreciative to be able to coach this team,” said DeJesus. “I consider it an honor and a privilege.”

The JV team consists of 4th-6th graders. According to DeJesus, there are only 10 girls on the team, and a lot of them are just learning to play the game. Only two or three girls on the team have ever played basketball before. “At this age it’s more about enjoying the game and having fun,” said DeJesus. “That’s how it’s supposed to be.”

The Panthers’ season has just begun, and DeJesus wants them to get a little better each day. One of the biggest challenges they face is that they don’t have a gym to practice in. They used to practice at the Saladino Park, but now that the park is under renovation, they are looking for another place to practice. They also have to provide their own transportation to the games. Despite all

By Nick Nahas

Photos Courtesy of Tara DeJesus The 2018 Bell Shoals Baptist Academy JV basketball team.

Right: The Panthers celebrate after a big win.

that, she has several goals that she want her team to meet. “My number one goal is for them to love basketball and want to play again,” said Dejesus.

DeJesus and her family are passionate about sports, to say the least. She not only spends a lot of her time coaching her 11-year-old daughter, Madison, who is a basketball and flag football player for Bell

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Shoals and has gone there since pre-K, but she is also always at her son Jake’s baseball games. Jake, 17, is a senior starting catcher for the Bloomingdale High School baseball team. He has

committed to play college baseball at Felician University in Rutherford, New Jersey. Her oldest son, Austin, 19, played for the Bloomingdale High School basketball team and was on varsity from 2014-2016. He currently attends Florida State University and has recently made the Dean’s List.

DeJesus has already been asked to become the head varsity coach next season when Madison moves up to varsity.

“Enrolling Madison at Bell Shoals is the best decision that I’ve ever made,” said DeJesus.

“They have small classrooms, it’s a loving Christian environment, and the teachers are great.

It’s a really great place to send your kid for school."

Page 15 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2018

Hot Off The Christian News Wire

National Day Of Prayer Theme For 2018

The National Day of Prayer was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of Congress and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. In 1988, it was signed into law by President Ronald Reagan designating the first Thursday of May as a day of national prayer.

Prayer brings people together.

Prayer builds bridges between opposing persons and even political parties.

Prayer reminds us that we are created in God's image, and He desires for us to represent Him everywhere we go.

Prayer brings unity.

In 2018, the theme for National Day of Prayer is ‘Pray for America UNITY,’ based upon Ephesians 4:3

which challenges us to mobilize unified public prayer for America, "Making every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."

The hope is that individuals, churches and spiritual leaders in America, will unify in prevailing prayer for the next great move of God in America.

"There is no great movement of God that has ever occurred that does not begin with the extraordinary prayer of God's people." Dr. Ronnie Floyd For more information, visit www.nationaldayofprayer.org.

I Can Only Imagine Exceeds Expectations In Theaters

I Can Only Imagine, directed by the Birmingham-based Erwin Brothers, makers of Christian feature films, has risen to number six on the list of top-grossing movies of the year.

Shot with a production budget of seven million dollars, the movie earned that back, and more in its release weekend of Friday, March 16. The movie made 17.1 million dollars during its first weekend and ranked third at the box office,

behind only Black Panther and Tomb Raider. Its total run is expected to draw in an estimated 60 - 70 million dollars.

It now ranks as the sixthhighest grossing Christian movie of all-time, trailing only The Passion of the Christ, the three Chronicles of Narnia movies and Heaven is Real."The second faith-based film currently playing in theaters is Paul, Apostle of Christ, which has made about five million dollars in its limited opening.

"I think it surprised the entire industry, including ourselves," said Jon Erwin, who co-directed the film with his

brother. "This just shows that there is this enormous audience out there."

The movie tells the story of the beginnings of the popular Christian song, also called I Can Only Imagine.

Songwriter Bart Millard, of MercyMe, said he penned the song in 10 minutes, but the song was a lifetime in the making. He wrote the song about his dying father and their relationship. The movie stars Dennis Quaid and Cloris Leachman. For more information, visit www.icanonlyimagine.com.

Texas Church Pays Off Over $10 Million Medical Debt In Easter Gift To Local Families

A Texas megachurch put actions to their faith this Easter season by paying off the medical bills of over 4,000 families in the community.

Covenant Church in Carrollton, Texas chose to donate the funds they usually spend on advertising for their Easter service to families who were in

By Kelly Wise Valdes

need. The church gave a total of $10,551,618 to families who were unable to pay their medical bills.

Stephen Hayes, who pastors Covenant Church, knows what it’s like to be buried under medical bills. After he was hit by a car at the age of 17 and spent 12 days in the ICU, his family struggled to pay off his medical bills until his church family stepped in to help.

Hayes wanted to pay it forward and extend the generosity he had received to those who were also in need, and so that’s what the church did. T hey primarily focused on helping local veterans who were injured while on duty.

The church sent out letters along with the funds to people they hoped to help, stating, "We are Covenant Church, and we are local in this area and can serve you in any way, and we would love to be your church. But even if we don't get to meet you, just know that God loves you."

In a sermon, Hayes told his congregation that Jesus had sent them similar letters in the Gospels, which tell of the sacrificial love He has for them by dying on the cross and welcoming them to new life.

“If you can imagine what those people this week will be feeling when they receive the letter that you sent them saying their debt is paid. I prayed 100-fold that [is how] you would feel in the reading the letter He wrote to you in the book of John 19:30. Hey, your debt of sin is paid. You are covered.”

For more information, visit www.covenantchurch.org.

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Page 16 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2018

Newly Remodeled DayDreams Day Spa Offers Mother’s Day Packages No matter your lifestyle, everyone deserves to relax, and with DayDreams Day Spa & Bath Shop’s new remodel, you will want to book your trip to tranquility.

You will begin your journey in the comfortable relaxation room where you can recline, take a nap, enjoy a light snack, or de-stress. The warm lighting, original artwork, and comfortable furniture complete the cozy-modern atmosphere and optimize your ability to unwind.

The owners of the last three years, Niki and Benjamin Herron-Keller, wanted to create an environment through the remodel where “you will feel pampered from the moment you walk in until the moment you leave.” They have accomplished their vision and truly made the spa their own. After spending time in the relaxation room, you can enjoy a soothing array of massages, professional skin

By Amy Schechter

care, body therapies, manicures, and pedicures.

Save time for a trip to the sauna as well.

Additionally, Herron-Keller and her husband are selective in their staff, sure to choose therapists who are committed to ongoing education. We expect our staff to “treat every-

one who comes in like it is your grandma whom you want to treat to a magical day.”

With their commitment to top notch service, they also offer all natural ingredients whenever possible. Before you leave, you can take a bit of your experience home by visiting their bath shop where they

carry a variety of beauty/spa products, specialty coconut wax candles, accessories, and fashion lines, such as local Ybor sleepwear line, FacePlant.

DayDreams prides itself on the knowledge-base, professionalism, and experience of its team. They only seek to recruit the area’s leading and most established therapists, several of whom bring decades of experience. Years of practice, combined with DayDreams’ emphasis on training and education, helps to ensure that your therapist will always be a cut above the rest.

You can find the perfect gift for yourself or for a love one for any occasion or just because. Mother’s Day packages are available now. For more information, call 657-2992 or visit them online at www.DayDreamsDaySpa.com. The Brandon location is located at 658 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. They also have a sister location in Lakeland at 1463 Town Center Dr. in Lakeland.

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Page 17 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2018

Being Real On Mother’s Day

By Kelly Wise Valdes

With a healthy dose of honesty, I have to confess that Mother’s Day was sometimes a difficult day for me. I spent a too much of my early motherhood days struggling with the guilt of trying to be the perfect mother. You know, the mother who doesn’t lose socks in the dryer, the mom who packs the perfect lunch every single day, who is always on time and has the best homemade cookies at the PTA meeting. In those young motherhood days, I often battled with my inner voice, trying to reason with my perceived inadequacies as a mother. Now that my children are all ‘adults,’ I can look back on those early days with a slightly different set of eyes. If I could do it again, I would remove my desire for perfection along with my insecurities of not measuring up to other moms. I would slow down and spend less time worrying about my perceived shortcomings as a mom and instead concentrate on enjoying the gift of motherhood. If you are approaching this Mother’s day with the same challenges, I implore you to exchange your image of being a ‘perfect mother’ for God's beautiful grace in order to learn to embrace your real, but imperfect, life.

Lord, Have Mercy: Help and Hope for Moms on Their Last Nerve By: Ellen Miller While motherhood is often a hysterical ride of pure joy, it can also hold some of the most mind-numbing, heartbreaking and sacrificial moments of your life. This book will speak to moms who could use a good laugh (and sometimes a good cry) as they live through the trials and triumphs of parenting in the 21st century.

The Official Soccer Mom Devotional: A Book of 50 Brief and Inspiring Devotions By: Lynne Thompson This faith-filled devotional was written by a mom, for moms. The short, simple Scripture readings include space to write reflections as well as great insights and new ways of looking at the common challenges and joys of motherhood.

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The 10 Habits of Happy Mothers: Reclaiming Our Passion, Purpose, and Sanity By: Meg Meeker M.D. In this book for mothers, you will learn the 10 most positive and impactful habits of healthy, happy mothers. By implementing key strategies, you can be happy and hopeful while teaching your children to be the best they can be. Learn that you don't have to succumb to the pressure of perfection to be a good mother.

Page 18 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2018

School Is Out For Summer And Vacation Bible School Is In

By Amanda Boston Vacation Bible School (VBS) is a weeklong church outreach that teaches the gospel to children in a fun, themed and interactive environment. The following is a sampling of VBS dates and times from local churches.

Bay Life Chapel presents its annual KIDAPALOOZA with its theme Look Up. The VBS is free and runs from Monday, June 11 to Friday, June 15 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. with doors opening at 6 p.m. Bay Life’s slime-filled, super funny, high-energy VBS will feature bouncy houses, obstacle courses, tons of indoor and outdoor games, live music and crazy dancing. KIDAPALOOZA is for children entering kindergarten through those entering 6th grade. Bay Life is located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon. To register, visit www.baylife.org/kpa. For questions, contact 661-3696 or kids@baylife.org.

Bell Shoals Baptist Church presents Game On! Gearing Up For Life’s Big Game on its Brandon campus from Monday, July 16 to Friday, July 20 from 8:45 a.m.-12 Noon. Kids will learn that God wants them to join His team, to train hard, to celebrate their salvation and to encourage one

another. Registration is free for all children age 4 (by Sept. 1, 2018) through completed 6th grade. The Brandon Campus is located at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. To register, visit www.bellshoals.com/vbs.

For more information, contact Janie Guffey at jguffey@bellshoals.com.

Central Baptist Church presents Game On! Gearing Up For Life's Big Game from Monday, June 18 to Friday, June 22 from 6-8:30 p.m. The VBS is for ages Pre-K3 to 5th grade. For more information, contact the church office at west@cbcslions.com. The church is located at 402 E. Windhorst Rd. in Brandon.

First Presbyterian of Brandon in partnership with Cedarkirk Camp presents The Universe of God, a VBS that brings classic camp activities and faithbuilding experiences to the church. The program is from Monday, June 11 to Friday, June 15 from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. for children that have completed kindergarten through completed 5th grade.

The cost is $90.00 per child. The church is located at 121 Carver Ave. in Brandon.

For more information or to register, visit www.fpcbrandon.org or call 689-4597.

FishHawk Fellowship Church presents Amped featuring different daily themes, games, crafts, music and an awesome water day on Friday with waterslides. The VBS runs from Monday, June 18 to Friday, June 22 from 9 a.m. to 12 Noon at 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia.

The program is designed for children that have completed kindergarten to completed 5th grade. The fee is $10 per child. To register, visit www.fishhawkfc.org. For questions, email VBS@fishhawkfc.org or call 655-7431.

Holy Innocents' Episcopal Church presents Shipwrecked, a VBS where kids will venture onto an uncharted island where they learn that they can survive and thrive. Kids will be anchored in the truth that Jesus carries them through life’s storms. The free VBS runs from Monday, June 4 to Friday, June 8 from 9 a.m. to 12 Noon at 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico. Participation is for age 4 to 5th grade. To register, visit www.hiepiscopal.org.

Immanuel Lutheran Church presents Scruffy & Scrappy’s Amazing School Bus Adventure featuring crafts, Bible stories, snacks and lively games.

The free VBS will run from Monday, July 9 to Friday, July 13 from 9 a.m. to 12 Noon at 2913 John Moore Rd. in Brandon. Participation is for age 3 (toilet trained) to those entering 5th grade. For more information, call 689-1787 or visit www.GodSoLoved.org.

Journey Church of Brandon presents JourneyJam 2018—Amped from Monday, July 16 to Friday, July 20 from 5:45-9 p.m. The free event is for children that have completed Pre-K to completed 5th grade. Every night, the evening kicks off with a free dinner followed worship, games, Bible study time, crafts, a mission focus and ends with a rally.

For more information or to register, visit vbs.journey7.com. Journey Church is located at 1310 John Moore Rd. in Brandon.

Limona Village Chapel United Methodist Church presents Shipwrecked where kids discover that Jesus rescues them. Kids participate in Bible-learning activities, sing catchy songs, play teamwork-building games and more. The free VBS runs from Monday, June 11 to Friday, June 15 from 5 p.m.-8:30 p.m. with dinner and snack provided. Participation is for age 3 to 5th grade. For more information or to register, visit

Page 19 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2018

School Is Out For Summer And Vacation Bible School Is In

By Amanda Boston www.limonavillagechapel.com or call 689-8385. The church is located at 408 Limona Rd. in Brandon.

Nativity Catholic Church presents A Walk Through The Mass from Monday, June 11 to Friday, June 15 from 9 a.m.- 12 Noon. The VBS is for Pre-K to 4th grade and is $40 per student. To register, visit www.nativitycatholicchurch.org. For more information, contact Pamela M. Emery at 689-9101.

The church is located at 705 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon.

New Covenant Community Church presents Operation Overboard from Monday, June 4 to Friday, June 8 from 6-8 p.m. Operation Overboard is an invitation and a challenge to dive into the deep waters of God's Word and discover what it means to have deep faith. A snack will be served each night. The VBS is for age 3 years-5th grade. The church is located at 8225 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia. For more information or to sign-up, contact Margaret Harris at 362-8038 or harrismargaret79@gmail.com.

New Hope UMC presents Gadgets & Gizmos for children ages Pre-K3 (as of 9/1/2017) to completed kindergarten from Monday, June 4 to Friday, June 8 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon. Gadgets & Gizmos is a

week with friends where kids will learn that they are uniquely wired and wonderfully made by God. Also, that same week from 9 a.m.12:30 p.m., New Hope presents Mega Sports & Creative Arts Camp for those who have completed grades 1-6. Children will choose from a track of dance, drama, soccer, volleyball, art, vocal/worship or rockets, Legos and experiments. New Hope is located at 120 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon. To register, visit https://findnewhope.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/…/re sponses/new. For questions or more information, contact Shelly Wilson at shelly@findnewhope.com or visit www.findnewhope.com.

Redeemer Church presents The Master Builder from Monday, June 25 to Friday, June 29 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon. Children will learn that God has a plan for their life through worship, lessons, Bible memory, games and crafts. The program is for age 4 to completed 5th grade. To register, visit www.redeemerriverview.org. For more information, contact Katy Carlin at katy@redeemerriverview.org. Redeemer is located at 12404 Boyette Rd. in Riverview.

Shiloh Baptist Church presents Game On! Gearing Up For Life’s Big Game where kids learn that God wants them to join His team, to train hard,

to celebrate their salvation and to encourage one another. The free VBS runs from Sunday, June 3 to Thursday, June 7 from 6-9 p.m. at 905 W. Terrace Dr. in Plant City. Participation is for age 3 through completed 5th grade. To register, visit www.shilohpc.org. For questions, call 752-8345.

South Bay Church presents Amped through its Summer Kids Club from Monday, June 4 to Friday, June 8 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. for kindergarten to 5th grade. Summer Kids Club will bring to life the people in the Bible who experienced the truth of God’s promises and knew they could trust the plans He had for them. The church is located at 13498 US Hwy. 301 S. in Riverview. For more information, contact Pastor Kevin Riggs at 677-0721 or visit www.southbay.cc/events.

South Shore United Methodist Church presents Shipwrecked: Rescued by Jesus where kids participate in Bible-learning activities, sing songs, play teambuilding games and collect Bible Memory Buddies.

The VBS runs from Monday, July 16 to Friday, July 20 from 5:30-8 p.m. at 11525 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview. Participation is

for kindergarten to 5th grade. The cost is $25 per child for the week and $10 for each additional child. Registration fee includes a t-shirt and nightly dinners for each participant. For more information or to register, visit www.southshoreumc.com or call 677-9482.

The Chapel At FishHawk presents Time Lab from Monday, June 4 to Friday, June 8 from 6-9 p.m. at 6026 Churchside Dr. in Lithia. During this interactive VBS, kids will be ‘Discovering Jesus from Eternity Past to Eternity Future,’ where He was in the Old Testament, and that He always was, always is, and always will be.

Participation is for completed Pre-K to completed 5th grade. Cost is $25 per child. Sign up to participate at The Chapel or via email by contacting Jesse Nunnally at jesse@thechapelfh.org. The cut-off for registration is Monday, May 28. For more information, visit thechapelfh.org or 6442787.

United Methodist Church of Sun City Center presents Shipwrecked: Rescued by Jesus from Monday, June 18 to Friday, June 22 from 8:30 a.m.-12 Noon.

The church is located at 1210 Del Webb Blvd in Sun City Center. To register, visit vbspro.events/p/551ad8. For questions, contact Rebecca Gross at rebecca@sccumc.com or 634-2539 Ext. 110.

More information is available at www.sccumc.com.

Page 20 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2018

Camp BSAC

Brandon Sports & Aquatics (BSAC) impacts lives and the community as a whole by providing over 10,000 swim lessons per year, in conjunction with its mission to prevent youth drowning. It also provides quality affordable childcare for working families. There is programming for the special needs population with its Team Trident Program, which is focused on three main areas: active recreation, proper socialization and interpersonal skills, and independent life skills.

There is something at BSAC for every child. Over the past 55 years local families have counted on BSAC to provide year-round, quality sports, recreation and educational experiences for their children. We are a favorite of working parents who want to feel good about where they are leaving their kids every day; that the kids are safe, are learning valuable athletic and social skills and are practicing good leadership.

Summer Camp at BSAC is a place for all children to be active, exploratory, creative, independent, playful, friendly, and confident. Join in for BSAC’s Passport to Adventure where your child will experience food, games and culture from all around the world. Both full day, half day and drop-in options at an affordable rate are offered. There are field trips weekly for all ages too.

Every week the children will ‘travel’ to a new region of the globe, earning pass-

port stamps as they go. They will dazzle you with the stories of their daily adventures as they bring out their inner Beast Mode in Africa and Seas the Day exploring the Islands.

Along with the Summer Camp Experience, additional programming, such as swim lessons are offered. The Learn to Swim Program is the most comprehensive swim lesson program in our area, working with ages six months and up. These are conveniently offered during your child’s Summer Camp day.

will get to take home their very own LEGO® mini figure. Each day and week will be a brand new LEGO® adventure you won’t want to miss.

Below is the schedule for the camps being offered at nearby locations: We Rock The Spectrum in Valrico, Monday to Friday, June 18-22: LEGO® STAR WARS Camp; July 9 – July 13: LEGO® Movies Camp and July 30 – August 3: LEGO® Superheroes and Villains.

Livingstone Academy Campuses in Seffner, Riverview, and Bloomingdale:

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Bricks 4 Kidz Tampa is back with awesome LEGO® Summer Camps being offered all over the Brandon, Riverview, and Valrico areas. Join in for a different theme each week such as Star Wars, Minecraft, Ninjago, and much more! Each week our campers will be building signature Bricks 4 Kidz robotic LEGO® models, very popular LEGO® mosaics and 3D LEGO® sculptures, as well as playing fun games and creating arts and crafts projects they will get to take home.

At the end of each week, every camper

May 29 - June 1: LEGO® STAR WARSMincraft Mashup Camp (Seffner Campus); Monday to Friday, June 25 29: Autism Spectrum LEGO Club Brandon Area LEGO Camp Morning Session (Bloomingdale) and July 23-July 27: LEGO® Mashup Camp (Riverview

Campus).

Sign up today at www.bricks4kidz.com/florida-tampa or call 545-4282.

Musical Theater And Much More Offered At Firehouse Cultural Center

The Firehouse Cultural Center will be offering Summer Camp through the summer. It is located at 101 1st Ave. NE in Ruskin.

Week 1: June 4 – June 8 Musical Theater I; Week 2: June 11 – June 15; Musical Theater II Week 3: June 18 – June 22; Musical Theater III; Week 4: June 25 – June 29; Musical Theater IV Week 5: July 2 – July 6; No Camp on Wednesday, July 4; Week 6: July 9 – July 13; The Art of Printmaking; Week 7: July 16 – July 20; Cartooning & Animation; Week 8: July 23 – July 27; RoboticsMaterials Fee for Robotics: $50; Week 9: July 30 – August 3; Robotics -Materials Fee for Robotics: $50.

For more information, call 645-7651 or visit www.firehouseculturalcenter.org.

Dance, Music And Theater Camps Take Center Stage At Patel Conservatory

Registration is now open for Patel Conservatory dance, music and theater summer camps and classes, which begin the week of May 29.

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Nearly 70 camps and classes are offered, most with performance opportunities, for students of all ages and abilities.

Some camps and classes require auditions. Theater auditions will be held May 18 and music auditions will be held May 5. Auditions for Patel Conservatory Popular Dance (PCPD) classes will be held April 7.

Registration for auditions is required.

Additional information about the Patel Conservatory, including audition scheduling, is available at www.patelconservatory.org and by calling 2221040.

The Patel Conservatory offers classes in dance, music and theater for students of all ages and experience levels. Each year, the Patel Conservatory and the Straz Center’s arts education programs enrich the lives of more than 70,000 students in our classrooms, on our stages and through the community.

The Patel Conservatory is located at the Straz Center, 1010 N Macinnes Pl. in Tampa. Visit www.patelconservatory.org.

things, come face-to-face with a giraffe and challenge North America’s tallest freestanding drop tower.

For more than 25 years, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has provided children with inspiring, exciting and educational experiences with some of the best Tampa summer camp options found anywhere. A variety of Summer Day Camps to fit your student’s grade level and interest are offered.

Different programs are offered for kids in grades K through 8th. Day Camps include daily lunches, snacks and drinks, a Camp T-shirt and a water bottle, complimentary photo with a Busch Gardens animal ambassador and complimentary admission to Busch Gardens following camp each day for camper.

Busch Gardens Offers Exciting And Educational Camp Programs

Busch Gardens’ Summer Day Camp is a time to make new friends, try new

For students in grades 9-12, Busch Gardens offers Counselor in

Training. If you are looking for something fun to do this summer, that will provide you with valuable career experience, then the Busch Gardens Counselor in Training program (CIT) is the summer camp program for you. This week long program offers a real opportunity to learn from the best. Expert educators will share their experience and knowledge with you on topics from child development to zoo careers and environmental awareness. Complete a specialized orientation and participate side by side with camp counselors during the summer day camp programs. Application required.

Information is available at https://buschgardens.com/tampa/summer-camps/day-camps/.

If your child is looking for a homeaway experience, Busch Gardens Summer Resident Camp offers this chance for students. Busch Gardens Summer Resident Camps have combined nature and thrills to create a unique one-of-a-kind experience.

Based out of a secure onsite dormito-

ry, Mzinga Lodge, camper’s grades 5 through college are provided with an all-inclusive camp experience from start to finish.

Come Experience The World With Kids ‘R’ Kids

Some of the fun summer programs taking place at Kids ‘R’ Kids this summer include: Kid Power - Explore heroes around the world to create an unforgettable superhero story of your own that combines STEAM concepts with special powers.

Epic Escape: Solve ‘the-whodone- it’ cases from favorite children’s literature and global mysteries throughout history. Use secret code detective work, teamwork and problem-solving to reveal the plots of epic literature.

Melting Pot: Get involved in making the world a better place by visiting new cultures, exploring unique languages, cooking up new recipes using math and science and creating new traditions for your family.

Mind Blast: Build an original, interactive game using recycled materials found in your community. This is a funfocused week that fuses innovation, imagination and conservation.

Continued on Next Page

Pay it Forward: Create a lasting impression on the world by expressing your kindness and goodwill through community-focused projects and cooperative games that will unite everyone involved.

Other fun weeks include Creative Destination, Steam Revolution, Cloud Exploration, Habitat Hunters, Globe Trotters and Our Town.

Kids ‘R’ Kids has two locations: Kids 'R' Kids Learning Academy of Valrico is located at 4321 Lynx Paw Trail in Valrico. Call 657-6200 for more information and Kids 'R' Kids Learning Academy of Circa/FishHawk, 5815 Kids Crossing Dr. Call 654-7000 for more information.

Visit www.krkvalrico.com/programs/2018-summer-camp

Spend The Summer At R&R Ranch Horsin’ Around

Summer Campers will enjoy riding and caring for horses at family-owned R&R Ranch.

It specializes in safe enjoyable horse experiences. The name stands for ‘Rest and Relaxation’ and also offers pony parties, trail riding lessons, horse boarding, playgroups and horse camps.

Summer Camp runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Monday to Friday. Early and

late pickup can be arranged.

Student’s ages 6 to 12 years are invited to attend.

Campers will enjoy: a daily trail ride or lesson, pony painting, hay rides, lots of games, snowball fight, learning how to care for horses and farm animals, bounce castle, lunch and disco party dinner in the air conditioned camp house.

There is a petting zoo with baby bunnies, chicks, ducks and baby pigs.

Kids will also get to enjoy arts and crafts and more.

Campers should wear closed toe shoes and comfortable clothes. They will also need a swim suit if they want to participate in the water activities.

Campers will need to bring their lunch and lots to drink. Sunscreen and bug spray are also recommended. Safety helmets will be provided.

R&R Ranch is located at 9805 Bryant Rd. in Lithia. Visit www.rrranchlithia.com.

Art Monkey

Join in the fun this summer at Art Monkey Summer Camps, which will meet from Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Camp is open to children ages 8 and up.

Art Monkey offers a lot of

creativity using pottery, clay, tie dye, mosaics and more.

The Art Monkey is a wacky, fun, funky and awesome place to express your creative side.

Weekly themes will have coordinating projects. The participants will enjoy ‘Fun Friday’ with a movie and pizza party.

The cost is $240 per child per week.

You can register at www.artandicecream.com.

While at Art Monkey you can enjoy some of the best ice cream around. Walk-in pottery and canvas painting as well as birthday parties, special events, classes, camps, and girl's night out are also offered.

We have something for every age!

Come join us today and check out what you've been missing For more information, call 315-9803.

Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium Is Cooking Up Some Summer Fun

Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium’s Summer Camps are a great way to learn new skills in the kitchen, create tasty recipes, and meet lots of new friends. The only things you need to be prepared are closed toe shoes and a restraint for shoulder length hair. All the ingredi-

ents, tools, and even the fun is included.

Students are taught how to properly use real kitchen tools, knives and appliances safely under adult supervision.

Students come away with the confidence to prepare dishes that are age appropriate and

tasty.

The goal is to encourage your child to be a help in the kitchen and to have fun while building a lifetime of good skills.

Cooking Camps for kids ages 6-9 will take place from 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. daily and the tween’s and teen’s Summer Camps, ages 10-15 will take place from 2-4:30 p.m.

Camps will take place weekly for four days and run from May 29 through August 2.

Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium is located at Brandon Crossroads, 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon. Call 653-2418 or visit www.rollingpinonline.com.

Your Kids Will Enjoy Their Best Summer Ever At YMCA Camps

The area YMCA’s offer a lot of options for summer camp fun. With the full day camp experience, campers enjoy days full of themed camp fun like arts and crafts, swimming games and more.

Specialty Full Day Camps include time throughout the week spent engaged

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Hours: 6am - 10pm South Brandon

Lake Brandon Village

(813) 571-0569

(813) 655-1237

2010 Bloomingdale Ave, Brandon 11325 Causeway Blvd, Brandon

www.chickfilabrandon.com

engaged in activities specific to the specialty chosen.

If your camper is looking to spend an entire day immersed in something they are passionate about, the Aquatics, Sports, Teen or Gymnastics camps may be for them.

Is your camper looking for a unique adventure? Two camp options may be YMCA Camp Cristina or The First Tee of Tampa Bay. Preschool and Adaptive Camps are offered at a few locations too.

For more information at some of the local Y’s, call North Brandon Family YMCA at 685-5402, Campo Family YMCA at 684-1371, YMCA Camp Cristina at 677-8400 and Spurlino Family YMCA at Big Bend Road at 228-9622.

Enjoy The Summer Scene 2018 At The Florida Academy Of Performing Arts

Full and half day camps are available for kids ages 5 and up at The Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) at Music Showcase.

Kids will enjoy music, acting, guitar and drums, field trips, singing and games and more.

Musical Theatre productions of Mary Poppins Jr., Seussical, Fiddler on the Roof Jr. and Junie B. Jones The Musical Jr. will all take place this summer.

Daily themes will include Wicked, The Greatest Showman, Frozen, Hamilton and more.

For more information, call 490-2787 or visit faopa.org.

Make A Splash At Florida Aquarium Summer Camps

This summer, make a splash with The Florida Aquarium. Open your eyes to a whole new world of science, take a tour of the Aquarium with animal experts, meet live animals up close and learn all about them, let your creative side go wild with arts and crafts, cool off at The Splash Pad, and even learn how to scuba dive.

There are camp options for ages 3 to 18.

AquaTots for ages 3-4 and AquaKids for ages 5-6 include science exploration, art and crafts and much more.

There are two sets of full-day on-site camps for ages 6-7 and 8-9 which include science exploration, tours of aquarium, live animal encounter, field trip and more.

Full day travel camps for ages 1011 and 12-14. Each day or week of camp has a new theme with new lessons and activities that focus on

marine science. Campers should bring a water bottle, swimsuit, sunscreen, mask, snorkel and fins every day.

There are also two different scuba camps offered, one for ages 12– 15 – NAUI SCUBA Diver. Campers can Earn Open Water certification through SCUBA classroom and pool training provided by a certified NAUI SCUBA instructor from The Florida Aquarium dive operations staff.

Ages14–18 can take Rescue Scuba and can learn to be a stronger dive buddy and prepare to respond to a variety of diving emergency situations with a NAUI Rescue Diver Course.

For full details on all of the camps, visit www.flaquarium.org/camps.

Learn Baseball From The Pros At Ostingers Academy Baseball Camp

Ostingers Academy will hold Baseball Camp this summer to give your child a better understanding of the game of baseball, through instruction, drills, and games. Having a good time while learning the fundamentals will be the main focus of this camp.

Ostingers staff is made up of all for-

mer professional players who instruct, teaching the game from the ground up.

The camp is not a full day camp with video games and indoor activities.

Jim Osting is a Baseball Instructor with 12 years of professional baseball playing experience including two years of Major League Experience (Padres and Brewers).

Patrick Ryan is a Baseball Instructor with eight years professional pitching experience. Kris Wilken is the Head Baseball Coach at Bloomingdale High School and has six years of professional playing experience College and high school players trained by Ostingers Academy will assist your child throughout their camp experience.

Additional help is provided from Ostinger players current and past to make the campers experience one of a kind.

Camp weeks run Monday to Friday, June 4-8, July 9-13 and July 23-27.

Camps run half days from 8:30 a.m.12:30 p.m.

Camps are held Monday to Wednesday at Ostingers Academy and Thursday and Friday at the FishHawk Sports Complex. The cost is $175 (multi week/multi camper discount).

To register, call 737-3000 or visit www.OstingBaseball.com.

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Mathnasium Of Riverview Makes Summer Math Fun

Summer time is ideal for having fun and at Mathnasium of Riverview, they understand that and have put together a comprehensive summer math program that makes math sense and they have fun doing so.

The programs range from helping to stop finger counting to Calculus.

Summer is a perfect, no-stress time to

stay in tune with math. With Mathnasium being the ‘Math’ in STEM, Mathnasium knows how to teach math.

Text LEARN to 57711 for your first pre-enrollment special discount.

Mathnasium of Riverview is located in the Publix shopping center on Symmes Rd. and 301.

Call 844-667-6284 or email Riverview@Mathnasium.com.

Find Fun Activities For Your Budding Artists At Center Place Fine Arts

Who knew that art could be so much fun?

This summer, you can sign up your budding artists, ages 7 to 16, for workshops at Center Place Fine Arts. Learn about painting, drawing, pottery, modeling and more.

Workshops include Art Mural, Be Your Own Beautiful, Creative 3-D Masks, Discover America, Paper Sculptures,

WWW.CAMPOSPREY.COM

Recycled Art, Space Art, Wet & Wild Canvases, Drawing and more.

Center Place is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon.

Classes are offered from Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Register today by calling 6858888 or visit www.centerplacebrandon.org.

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Our instructors have 30 years combined professional playing and coaching experience.

-6860 941-928 Session 1 June 4-8 (M-F)

Session 2 July 9-13 (M-F)

Session 3 July 23-27 (M-F)

Location:

All-Inclusive Kids Overnight Adventure Camp Ages 7-15 204 beautiful acres located alongside the Little Manatee River!

M-W Ostingers Academy Space is Limited Th-F FishHawk Sports Complex Register Early Age Group: 7 - 14 yrs to hold your spot!

Time: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm Cost: $175/camper **(Second Child $125) **Multi week discounts

Daily Instruction • Games • Pitching/Catching Fundamentals Addressed • Drills For More Information:

Call 813.737.3000 or visit our website at www.OstingBaseball.com

FishHawk Ranch Tennis Club Offers Tennis For All Levels Of Skill

FishHawk Ranch Tennis Club is offering its Sixth Annual Tennis Camp for your child ages 6 and up. Full day camps include plenty of tennis games and fun.

Kids cool down in an air conditioned event room, and during lunch times engage in other fun outdoor and indoor games. On Fridays, campers walk down to the Starling pool and game room for a nice finish to the week. All levels from Beginning to Advanced. Register online at FishHawkRanchTennisClub.com or call the Pro Shop at 681-4000.

Florida Hawks

The Florida Hawks will be offering two camps this summer: Soccer Fun With Coach Juan and Goalkeeper Summer Camp.

Soccer Fun with Coach Juan will take place July 2, 3, 5 and 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Camp is for boys and girls born between 2006 and 2011.

Kids will receive age appropriate technical and tactical instruction small sided games - daily 5 v 5 competitions - daily soccer tennis and soccer golf competitions.

There is a professional coaching staff and athletic trainer onsite. There will be a hydration station and camp -shirt The cost is $ 215.

Goalkeeper’s Summer Camp for male and female goalkeepers will take

place July 23 to 27.

Age Groups include – 10U, 11U 12U, 13U and Up, College Level.

The cost is $495 for the week.

Camps will be held at the FishHawk Sports Complex Soccer Fields. Register online for both camps at www.floridahawksfc.com.

Improve Math Performance Over The Summer At Mathnasium Brandon

Incorporating math studies into a student’s summer routine brings other significant benefits.

“Take advantage of the more relaxed environment of summer break as a golden opportunity to improve math performance,” suggests Becky McDaniels, Center Director at Mathnasium Brandon and Mathnasium @home.

Mathnasium’s new @Home tutoring program will also help students keep up on their math skills from virtually anywhere.

“During the summer, children have a lot of unstructured time, allowing them to unplug their busy minds and begin making different connections. These are ideal conditions for effectively absorbing new information and having a sudden ‘aha’ moment when concepts click into place. McDaniels has found the summer months to be a great opportunity for students to work on mathematics

and have seen children make great strides with a serious commitment of just two to three hours a week all while having a great time.

Call 655-MATH or visit online at www.mathnasium.com/brandon to schedule summer sessions at your neighborhood center or at home using its Mathnasium @home program and combat the summer slide from virtually anywhere. Mathnasium will be offering

STEM camps this summer. Call for details. Mathnasium of Brandon is located at 1048 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico in Plaza Bella.

Camp Osprey Offers Traditional Overnight Summer Camp

If you are looking for an overnight camp option that is not too far from home, consider Camp Osprey. This overnight traditional summer camp is for boys and girls ages 7-15. It is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands, nestled alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma.

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Award W inning STEM Camps Since 2005 Where Bright & Creative Kids Play to Learn

Math Help

Math Enrichment

Test Prep

Summer Fun

Avoid The SUMMER SLIDE! Summer Topics

• Curing Finger Counting • Focusing on Fractions • Having Fun & Building • Confidence in Math

• Preparing for Middle School • Maximizing ACT/SAT Math Skills • Previewing or Reviewing • Algebra I & II or Geometry

Now Enrollin g for Summer

Mathnasium has two options to serve you with an In-Center experience or an @home experience.

Beach Side, Cliff Side, or World Traveler; take Mathnasium@home anywhere!

813-655-MATH

Campers live in spacious, newly remodeled, air conditioned cabins with covered porches, electric lighting, bunk beds, picnic tables and fire pits.

Boys and girls cabins are located on opposite sides of the camp.

A unique program of recreation, adventure, creativity, and exploration is provided, including a high ropes challenge course, ziplines, horseback riding, canoeing, paintball, swimming, and campfire nights. Each day is filled with loads of summer fun and an amazing range of camp activities at an all-inclusive price.

Camp is secured with automatic gates that remain locked to the general public.

All staff and camp counselors are background checked.

Visit www.camposprey.com for more information.

Play Baseball Or Softball At Rich Luppino’s United Sports Academy

Four Bloomingdale Cal Ripken/Babe Ruth baseball and softball summer camps will be held at the Bloomingdale Sports Complex.

With four great camps to choose

from, your kids will enjoy skill training, fun drills and instruction games.

Camp #1 takes place Tuesday to Friday, May 29-June 1; Camp #2 takes place Monday to Friday, June 4-8; Camp #3 takes place Monday to Friday, July 30-August 3 and Camp #4 takes place Monday to Thursday, August 6-9. All camps take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

Camp is for ages 5-12. Bring your gear, drinks, snacks and lunch. The cost is $150 per week or $40 per day.

Discounts provided for team, sibling or multiple camps. For more information or to register, call 561-951-6141.

Tampa Bay History Center Offers History Adventure Camps

Step back into Florida's past with unique games and projects, themed field trips, outdoor fun, and hands-on interactions with real historians and experts during the History Center's History Adventure Camps.

Six different themed camps explore Florida's unique history, from Pirates and Explorers to the

Everglades.

Camps are open to children ages 7–11 and led by experienced educators dedicated to providing unique, educational and engaging experiences campers won't forget.

Camps for boys and girls run Monday to Friday, June 4-8, June 1822, June 25-29, July 9-13, July 23-27 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and have a different theme each week.

Camps include crafts, games and a bit of history, guest speakers, indoor and outdoor fun, and Museum Insider’s Tour.

Middle-school students can take a walk on the wild side.

Discover the beauty and complexity of Florida’s natural environment during Wild Florida, Tuesday to Thursday, July 10-12 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Contact the Education Department at 675-8987 or ahoffman@tampabayhistorycenter.org. Visit www.tampabayhistorycenter.org/camps/.

TechPlayzone Offers Hands-On Technology Enrichment In Fun & Safe Environment

TechPlayzone has led the charge for engaging young people in science,

technology, engineering, and math since 2005.

With an increased demand for hands-on technology enrichment, TechPlayzone has continued to provide families with excellent curriculum, and fun in a safe environment for all kids.

Give your child a high-tech advantage at TechPlayzone this summer.

TechPlayzone is pleased to offer 4 weeks of STEM Camp for beginning and returning TechPlayzone campers in 2nd-5th grade. TechPlayzone is honored to partner with FIRST LEGO League at Hillsborough Community College to power the FIRST LEGO League Camp.

We also offer engineering enrichment specifically for 6th - 8th grade students.

Using TechPlayzone's formula of hands-on project-based learning with cutting edge technology, students can work at their own pace or work as a team with the assistance of facilitators and staff members to complete one of the engineering projects each week.

For information, visit techplayzone.com, call 684-7329 or email techplayzone@gmail.com.

Christian Daycare Enrolling Students

6 weeks to 4 yrs. old

No Enrollment Fee for New Students

BAPTIST ACADEMY

232 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Brandon

Celebrating Over 50 Years of Kingdom Education 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. Brandon

6am to 6pm

www.bsbacademy.com

Living Well Daycare http://tpattbr2wixsite.com/livingwelldaycare

Now Enrolling !!

Infant through Pre-K4

689-9183

Call 813-684-9453

St. Stephen Catholic School

Valrico Campus

950 S. Mulrennan Rd. Valrico

• Providing Quality Education

FishHawk Location NOW OPEN! 10560 Browning Rd, Lithia • (813) 689-6819 Brandon Location 506 Limona Rd, Brandon • (813) 689-6820

Inspire. Teach. Minister.

K5-12th Grade Faith Christian Academy of Plant City Now Enrolling/Accepting McKay, PLSA and Step Up For Students 905 W. Terrace Dr. | Plant City, FL 33563

813.473.2090 www.fcapc.com

Over 4in0 yrs Christian Education

• Early Childhood Programs (3 & 4 yr. olds) • Elementary Education (Kindergarten thru 5th) • Middle School Education (6 thru 8th grade)

VPK/Preschool 3 & 4 Yr Old Before & After Care

Luke 18:16

200 Kingsway Road, Brandon 689-2571 www.apostleslutheran.net

Now serving children

Birth-Grade 8

before & after-school programs available Registration NOW OPEN!

689-9435

216 N. Parsons Ave. Brandon, FL AdvancEd and ACSI accredited

WWW.FBCBRANDON.ORG

(813)654-9500

Winthrop Campus

11297 Winthrop Main St. Riverview

(813)654-9400

Providing quality childcare for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years.

10424 Saint Stephen Circle Riverview (Off Boyette Road)

Faith-based curriculum and credentialed staff.

(813) 741-9203

Now Open at Winthrop Center

www.ststephencatholicschool.org

Christian School & Child Development Center Toddlers thru Preschool & K-8th Grade

Small, Caring Environment

ENROLLING STUDENTS

Grades K-12

Christian Academy Ages 1-11 Bible-Based Teaching olling Individualized Educational Program Enr w!

No After School Care Summer Programs

Accepting Scholarships & School Readiness 1511 U.S. 301 S. Tampa, Fl 33619 (813) 626-4600

To Schedule a Tour, Call Adunola Steen at 813-319-5862 Located on 301 S. in Riverview

www.tsop-academy.org

Grades PK-12

Offering Fall VPK

CENTRAL BAPTIST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL “Distinctly Christian, Academically Excellent” 402 E. Windhorst, Brandon, 33510

813-689-6133 www.cbcslions.com

Accepting Step Up Scholarships

Now g!

Enrollin Accepting Students with IEPs

Preschool • VPK • Half-day Kindergarten Before and After Care • Wee Play Offering early childhood education in a loving, warm Christian environment for over 45 years.

(813) 689-9482

120 N. Knights Avenue • Brandon, FL 33510 www.newhopeearlylearning.com

Ages 2-12th Grade 820 College Ave W. Ruskin FL 813- 645-6441

Now Enrolling

Half-day Preschool, VPK, & Mother’s Day Out program 402 E. Lumsden Road Brandon, FL 33511 813-684-3118 academy@wpcbrandon.org

Two Locations

K-8th Grades 1204 S. Lenna Ave, Seffner 13498 US Hwy 301 South, Riverview

813.661.4200

WWW.LIVINGSTONESHOOLS.ORG

C

Fully Accredited Serving with Excellence for 33 Years!

VPK/Preschool Elementary School • Middle School Before & After Care

Page 28 • christianvoicemonthly.com • May 2018