19 minute read
News From Te Wire
Upward Sports Continues To Innovate
Upward Sports, the faith-based sports programming organization, recently announced the launch of baseball and softball as league offerings. Established in 1995, Upward Sports is the world’s largest Christian youth sports provider. The mission of the organization is to promote the discovery of Jesus through sports. Upward Sports equips churches to run sports ministries in their community. With the new addition of baseball and softball, Upward Sports continues to provide innovative outreach solutions for churches around the country. Families will have the option to play in a league where their child will learn the games in a positive environment that honors family time with one hour of practice and one hour of gameplay each week. Churches can bring America’s favorite pastime to their community through an intentional, Christ-centered league. Learn more at www.upward.org.
Best Christian Workplaces (BCW) is excited to announce expanded services, a brand refresh and the launch of a new website: www.workplaces.org.
Best Christian Workplaces is the new, streamlined organizational name. The new brand will elevate the emphasis on the vision, which is that Christian-led workplaces set the standard as the best, most effective places to work in the world. While the name has changed, the solid foundation of research remains intact. BCW has the most comprehensive database of employee engagement data that exists in the Christian realm. The new website simplifies access to BCW professional services and provides resources to equip leaders to use the proven three-phrase process: Discover, build and grow. Becoming a thriving workplace begins with evaluating and measuring the current level of organizational, leadership, and team health. To learn more, visit www.workplaces.org.
Fellowship of Christian Athletes Distributed 200,000 Bibles In 2022
The Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) reported that the group distributed nearly 200,000 Bibles to student-athletes in 2022. The FCA also celebrated its 68th anniversary this year.
The 2022 theme for FCA was ‘Every,’ based on Ephesians 1:3, which says, “All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ.”
“For 67 years, it has been FCA’s priority to make Jesus known throughout the world,” said FCA President and CEO Shane Williamson. “We have a wonderful gift to give to our coaches and athletes, the hope and truth of Christ through His everlasting word.” For more information about the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, visit www.fca.org.
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Te Voice Finale Contestant Performs Christian Worship Song For Judges
During last month’s finale on The Voice, contestant Bodie delivered a powerful worship performance that left the judges speechless. The California native, who was part of judge Blake Shelton’s team, was a fan favorite during season 22. During the finale, Bodie performed “Gratitude” by Christian artist Brandon Lake. The 29-yearold performer said he was dedicating the worship song to his three children. As the performance progressed, Bodie powerfully belted out the song accompanied by a choir. The choir raised their hands in worship and the audience held up lights. “I’m choking on my tears over here,” Gwen Stefani shared. “You have a superpower behind you; it’s a truth. I think it comes from your pure faith that you have ... I can’t even speak right now, that was so beautiful.”
Season 22 of The Voice concluded with a two-hour finale results show. Bodie came in second place and Shelton’s other contestant, Bryce Leatherwood, took home the win, but Bodie was grateful that his song to God was exposed to millions of people through his performance. For more information, visit www.instagram.com @bodie.
RESTORATION & PURPOSE OUTREACH MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Dr. Tracy Spencer-Sandolph is the founder of Restoration & Purpose Community Outreach Inc., located in Brandon. This 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization was established to reach people throughout the Brandon and FishHawk area to provide resources to individuals and families as well as build strong relationships among the community.
Dr. Spencer-Sandolph holds a Ph.D. in human services, with a specialization in nonprofit management and leadership. She is a retired sergeant major that served in the United States Army for 32 years. In addition, she served as an Army sexual assault response coordinator and victim advocate. She is a motivational speaker and a victim-advocate trainer, as she is also a survivor of domestic violence and sexual assault. In the spring of 2022, KNOW magazine featured Dr. Spencer-Sandolph and recognized her as one of the most influential, achieved and honorable women across the United States.
Restoration & Purpose Community Outreach began a Christmas basket program two years ago. The program adopts 10 family for the holidays and provides meals and presents. Dr. Spencer-Sandolph worked with local school social workers and teachers to identify families in need.
“My favorite part is seeing the individuals and families smile and know that someone cares,” said Dr. Spencer-Sandolph. “I’m focused on helping the community in four public health issues: 1) domestic vio-
lence awareness, 2) sexual assault awareness, 3) human trafcking awareness and 4) homelessness.” Restoration & Purpose Community Outreach ofers a variety of programs, such as its abused victims/survivors program, advocacy
Dr. Tracy Spencer-Sandolph is the founder services, clothes closet, of Restoration & Purpose Community support group meetings, Outreach Inc. mentorship programs,
community outreach and speaking engagements. “The program has many opportunities for volunteers. We have been approved via Hillsborough County Public Schools to ofer community services to students,” said Dr. Spencer-Sandolph. “We are seeking volunteers for social media, website, administrative, event planners, clothes-closet sorting, marketing and quarterly newsletters.” Dr. Spencer-Sandolph also wants the community to know that donations are also always welcome, including travel-size and regular-size personal hygiene items and clean clothes for men, women and children. Restoration & Purpose Community Outreach is also hosting an upcoming training in March 2023. This is a 40-hour Victim Advocate Course designed to provide the basic skills for a person who wants to be a credentialed victim advocate. The training is open to the public and costs $450. Tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite. For more information, call 813-657-0117 or email admin@restorationandpurpose. org. Restoration & Purpose Community Outreach is located at 1085 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon.
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HIGH 5 INC. ADDS TACTICAL LASER TAG TO LIST OF OFFERED ACTIVITIES
By Lily Belcher
High 5 Inc. recently added a CQ Tactical Laser Tag setup to its list of programs available through the Brandon nonprofit organization.
High 5 partnered with the former owners of CQ Tactical Laser Tag to bring the setup to its program to add a new and exciting element of entertainment. The Mission 5 setup differs from other laser tag programs because it is entirely tactical and team-based, compared to traditionally individual-focused games.
“There are missions that each team is trying to accomplish, so the entire experience is goal based. The course is challenging and definitely a great workout at the same time,” said High 5 CEO Chuck Burgess.
Mission 5 Laser Tag is perfect for birthday parties, weekend activities or outings with family and friends. To participate, individuals must be 10 years of age or older and at least 48 inches tall. An hour-and-a-half session costs $25 for nonmembers and $20 for members. Birthday parties can be booked for $275 to $375, depending on specifications for the party.
Since the setup from CQ Tactical Laser Tag is based on teamwork, communication and strategy, that makes it a fun activity for corporate team building and family bonding. “The Mission 5 Laser Tag combines nicely with our mission of bringing people together in a fun way to enhance their lives,” said Burgess. “… Overall, we love watching people come in and challenge each other while having so much fun at the same time.”
High 5 is a nonprofit organization that has served the Brandon community for 60 years. The organization aims to make a positive impact on special-needs education, after-school experience, youth-drowning prevention, sports and recreation and community impact. The nonprofit is currently looking for volunteers to help support the recreational activities offered through its programs as well.
The organization is located at 405 Beverly Blvd. off U.S. Highway 60. The Mission 5 Laser Tag setup is located in the same building.
For more information on how to join High 5 or to schedule a tour, contact 813-689-0908 or visit www.high5inc. org. For more information on pricing and booking for Mission 5, visit https://mission5lasertag.org/.
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A HUB OF CARING IN HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
Staf Report
Fighting hunger is a community-wide passion in the SouthShore area of Hillsborough County, said Tom Bullaro. Bullaro, who is the director of Our Lady’s Pantry with his wife, Anita, said that the pantry is like a hub of sorts with food coming and going to and from many sources.
“People know we are here,” he said. “It’s not unusual for various clubs and neighborhoods to take up a collection and bring surplus food to us. Just today, in fact, we received a trunk full of food from Florida Acecapaders, a 55plus mobile community in Lithia.”
“We are just passing it forward,” said Gloria Welch and Kathy Ferguson, who kindly delivered the food from their friends.
“It’s like manna from heaven,” Bullaro said, referring to the many kind donations he receives.
A special concern, however, is what to do with surplus perishable foods sometimes donated early in the week. Often, it won’t keep until Saturday when Our Lady’s Pantry opens for clients.
“The overflow of fresh foods must be used quickly,” and so he used to be worried, he said. “Then unexpectedly, I got a call from Wings of Love and Street Angels Ministries asking if we could share any of our food with them. Both groups feed the homeless and other disadvantaged families throughout Hillsborough County.
“I said, yes — and we’ve been helping ever since. We also share surplus perishable foods with our local pantries, and
they share with us. We do everything we can to get fresh food to those in need as quickly as possible.” Sue Jobson, from Wings of Love, said Wings of Love feeds about 30 men, women, and children in Ruskin, Wimauma
Director of Our Lady’s Pantry Tom Bullaro and and Riverview about his wife, Anita, work both at the pantry and behind the scenes to serve the hundreds of men, women and children who come for food. three times a week. Vicki Shafer, from
Street Angels Ministry, said the ministry serves about 150 homeless men, women and children every Thursday evening in Gibsonton, Tampa and Ybor City. Among other things, Bullaro often gets frozen cuts of meat from supermarkets that are too large for his regular clients. These groups, however, are able to use these cuts, which they cook to prepare hot, nutritious food for those in their care. Jobson speaks for the many good-hearted people who care for those struggling with food insecurity and especially the homeless. In addition to working with Wings of Love and Street Angels Ministry, Our Lady’s Pantry also delivers food and beverages to veterans in New Beginnings of Tampa every Saturday after the pantry closes. To learn more about any of these groups, please visit: • Wings of Love: https://wolmm88.org/. • Street Angels Ministry: www.streetangelsministry.org. • New Beginnings: www.newbeginningsoftampa.org. • Our Lady’s Pantry: www.ourladyspantry.com.
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LOCAL 8-YEAR-OLD FUNDRAISES FOR THE RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE
By Ariana Pedraza
This month, 8-year-old Lindsey Baxter showed that it is never too early to start giving back to the community.
A student at Stowers Elementary School, Baxter started a snow cone stand from which all profits went to the Ronald McDonald House in Tampa.
The Ronald McDonald House is important to Baxter’s family as she was born with a heart condition called congenital diaphragmatic hernia, CDH, which means her heart is on the right side of her body and is flipped in the opposite direction, and it will remain that way for the rest of her life. Her family took her to the best doctors they could find in Ohio away from their home and spent the time that Baxter was in the NICU in the Ronald McDonald House.
“The Ronald McDonald House was a place to rest our heads and recharge before getting back to her bedside. They did not ask us for a penny, and we were surrounded by parents who give up a lot for their kids. Everyone there is there
for their child, and regardless of who they are they all want the same thing. It was a very supportive environment,” explained Baxter’s father. The Ronald McDonald House takes in families from all over the world, and meals
Lindsey Baxter is very grateful to everyone for their support. are made by
the communities for those staying. Baxter’s family moved to Florida from Virginia in July, and this is the second time she has hosted a snow cone stand to raise money. Last April in Virginia, she raised $311, and this November in FishHawk she made $561. She was very excited to be able to help others, and even bought the supplies herself. Baxter’s mother gushed, “It’s hard to come by that kind of empathy in a kid. It is great to see her be not only a great friend and daughter but also have such a great heart.” When she is not running her snow cone stand, Baxter enjoys playing with her friends, doing math and tumbling. She plans on running another fundraiser very soon and is very grateful for all of the community support.
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Reconciliation Tue. at 8:30am, Thurs. at 6pm, Sat. at 3:15pm For more information, please check the St. Anne website. and By Appointment. For more information, please check the St. Anne website. Registration is now open for the 2021-2022 Faith Formation year. Please call the ofce for more information. U.S. Hwy. 41 • 106 11th Ave NE • Ruskin SAVE THE DATES Nov. 2nd • 10am • All Souls Mass Nov. 17th - Nov. 20th • Parish Carnival U.S. Hwy. 41 • 106 11th Ave NE • Ruskin
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By Kathy L. Collins
Hillsborough County recently celebrated the opening of one of its newest conservation parks, known as Pebble Park, which is located at 9955 Riverview Dr. in Riverview. The opening was commemorated with a ribbon-cutting and attended by approximately 50 people on November 17.
Those attending the ribbon-cutting included Hillsborough County Conservation and Environmental Lands Management Director Forest Turbiville, Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioner Stacy White and Mosaic Vice President Joe Wolf.
According to Todd Platt with Hillsborough County, “Pebble Park is a good example of passive preservation for community use. Pebble Park has about three-fourths of a mile of paved and natural trails, a butterfly garden, three pavilions, restrooms, parking and is a beautiful site along the Alafia River.”
The Butterfly Garden was built by local Brownie Girl Scout Troop 33133. The troop is located in Riverview. The project also includes approximately 500 native trees and plants. A boardwalk near the river is planned for the site.
Moreover, Pebble Park will soon include a Native American-inspired statue created by Milligan Studios in collaboration with artists and craftspeople of the Seminole Tribe. The completion target date for the statue, known as ‘Sovereign: The Uncon-
Hillsborough County celebrated the opening of its newest quered,’ is late park, Pebble Park, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Te park is conveniently located in Riverview. December/early January.
The land was owned by Mosaic but never mined. However, the name ‘Pebble Park’ comes from the material mined by Mosaic known as phosphate pebbles. The land where Pebble Park now sits was purchased by Hillsborough County in 2018 as a part of the Capital Improvements Program. Pebble Park is a delightful addition to Hillsborough County’s long list of neighborhood parks, nature parks and conservation parks. Before I participated in my first Hillsborough County Hiking Spree in 2020, I never knew just how many parks we had in the area. Pebble Park is one of the locations on this year’s Hiking Spree, which runs through March 2023. The Hillsborough County Hiking Spree is an opportunity for all residents to get out and explore the tranquility of nature and earn a prize. For more information on Pebble Park and all of the other parks you can visit in Hillsborough County, or to register for the Hiking Spree, please visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org.
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DO YOU HEAR WHAT I HEAR? A CHILD’S CHRISTMAS WISH
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Jennifer Glancy, the director of Children’s Ministries at Sun City Center United Methodist Church, also served as one of Santa’s elves during a recent event when she came across a very special letter to Santa. In the letter, Audrey Brown, a vivacious 8-yearold that had struggled with wearing her hearing aids, wanted a hearing aid jewelry making kit. According to Audrey’s mother Ashley, she had received a hearing aid bobble and that gave Audrey the confidence she needed to feel comfortable in her hearing device.
“Audrey asked Santa for a kit of jewelry making implements so that she could make charms to sell to raise money for children who need hearing aids and to give away in order to help other children feel confident and proud to wear their hearing devices,” said Glancy.
According to the Florida Association of the Deaf, census data says that Tampa Bay has the third-highest concentration of deaf or hearing-impaired residents in the United States.
Audrey has been hearing-impaired after her cancer treatment as an infant. As she grew older, she became self-conscious about her hearing aids. When she was given hearing aid jewelry, it gave her the self-assurance she needed.
“I think the jewelry for hearing aids made
me feel beautiful for the first time in a long time,” said Audrey. “I had always hidden my hearing aids and I was embarrassed because kids would make fun of me. With
8-year-old Audrey Brown (left) hopes to be able to help this I feel all other hearing-impaired peo- kids and adults ple feel confdent wearing can feel bethearing devices by making ter about their hearing aid jewelry. Also pictured is her brother Kamdyn hearing aids. and identical twin, Aubrey. They helped
me gain my self-confidence back.” Her request to Santa was for a kit to make similar jewelry so that other girls can feel pretty while wearing hearing aids. “She wanted make the first 50 pairs to donate to audiologist ofces because other may not know what they are,” said Ashley, Audrey’s mom. “After she donates her first 50 pairs, she hopes to sell the charms to raise money to help children and families aford hearing devices.” Ashley bought Audrey her first pair of hearing-aid jewelry on Christmas Day 2020. “I had taken them of and put them in my backpack for my class with the audiologist that worked with my school,” said Audrey. “When I went to get them out, they were gone. It made me really sad. I felt embarrassed again with my hearing aids. I do not want anyone, boy, girl, man, or woman ever feeling the way I did.” Contact Ashley Brown at kamdynsmommy1001@icloud.com.
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