Awana Spotlight
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Who: Jim Schwab
Position: Awana Commander
Jim took over as the Awana Commander in 2012. Serving the Lord is important to him, especially when it comes to children’s ministry. Under Jim’s leadership, Awana participation has continued to show yearly growth. He loves watching the clubbers challenge themselves memorizing God’s Word and growing in God’s Word.
Jim has been married for over 21 years and has six children. He is part of the Aerospace industry working at Spirit as a stress engineer. Family time is most important to Jim including studying God’s Word with them. It’s no surprise that Awana is a family affair with his wife Melissa serving as Girls T&T Director, his oldest daughter serves as a Leader in T&T, and his other children participate in Cubbies, Sparks, T&T and Trek clubs.
Jim looks forward to the new Awana year and serving the Lord as Commander and being part of and watching as children grow in their faith.
To get to know Jim a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked him:
How long have you been involved in Awana? This is my 10th year.
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? Being an advocate for Awana, the church and the families that come to Awana.
What is your favorite Bible verse? 2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
What is your favorite hobby? Spending time with my family.
What is your favorite sport? College basketball
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? Western Caribbean
Three words to best describe you… observant, sacrificing, always growing
Any hidden talent we don’t know about? I can make a sound with my mouth that sounds like water dripping.
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? Watching my oldest daughter receive the Citation award.
Thank you Jim for all of your hard work and dedication!
By Victoria Tully August 2016
Who: Barb Collins
Position: Awana Secretary
Barb is starting her fourth year as the Awana Secretary. Prior to being the main secretary, she was the T&T secretary. Barb’s involvement in Awana has spanned three other states serving as Guards Director, Sparks Leader and Secretary and a Cubbies Leader. Her involvement began in Whidbey Island, Washington. She and her family had moved from North Carolina and wanted their youngest to continue in Cubbies. The club had so many Cubbies that they would only let him attend if she stayed and worked with them. According to Barb, that’s when she got hooked and from then on has worked at every Awana program her children attended. She thinks Awana is a wonderful ministry and loves being a part of helping young people memorize scripture and writing it upon their hearts.
Barb has been married to Sam for 46 years and has three children and six grandchildren. She is now retired but has worked as a second grade teaching assistant in North Carolina, a kindergarten instructional assistant in Virginia and most recently a high school library secretary in Derby.
She never felt she had any great musical or speaking talent or gift for ministry but feels she can be a worker bee who can help support others who are doing great things to minister and further God’s kingdom.
To get to know Barb a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked her:
How long have you been involved in Awana? About 20 years
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? Getting people the supplies and materials they need to perform their ministry in an organized manner.
What is your favorite Bible verse? Micah 6:8 He has showed you O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
What is your favorite hobby? I like all kinds of crafts including knitting, sewing and cross stitch. Right now I like to quilt, although my fabric purchase far out paces my production level.
What’s the one thing you can’t live without? Can’t imagine not having a sewing machine.
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? I’m a transplant to Derby and have lived on every coast with the furthest being Japan.
Any hidden talent we don’t know about? I can make some pretty good tents out of sheets and clothes pins and living room furniture for my grandkids.
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? In last year’s Grand Prix my grandson won all of his heats but his times were not good enough to get a trophy. He was crushed and didn’t understand. His friend Chase Hill received two first place trophies. Chase, on his own, came over and gave one to my grandson. I was so proud of Chase.
Thank you Barb for all of your hard work and we are all glad you are a worker bee!
Who: Erin Treiber
Position: Puggles Leader
Erin has been an Awana leader for six years. She got involved as a leader right after finishing Trek. Erin’s involvement in Awana is very important to her because she loves working with kids, especially the Puggles. It is so fun for her to see them grow and their personalities develop during the year. She watches them learn so much about God and the world around them. It is very rewarding to Erin when they remember the lessons they have been taught in Puggles.
For a short time she worked in Sparks but ended up back in Puggles. She really enjoyed her time in Sparks but the Puggles club has a special place in her heart.
Erin is not married. She has lived in Rose Hill with her family for 11 years. Erin has attended Calvary Baptist Church during those 11 years. She works at the Derby Target where she is a presentation team member. Her team resets the aisles and does all of the seasonal sets. She also helps ship items from the store.
To get to know Erin a little better, here are some questions I asked her:
How long have you been involved in Awana? Six years as a leader and 11 as a clubber (Cubbies through Trek)
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? Getting to know the kids better is my favorite aspect. When a two-year-old starts to talk to you about his or her day, it is always entertaining.
What is your favorite Bible verse? Psalm 43:5 Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God.
Pizza or burger? Pizza, hands down.
What is your favorite hobby? I love to run! Long-distance running in the fall is my favorite.
What is your favorite sport? Soccer or basketball. It’s a tie.
Three words to best describe you… enthusiastic, compassionate and loyal
What is one word others use to describe you? Spunky
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? Cookies and cream
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? One time a parent told us that her child would come home and want to “play Puggles!” It was really awesome to know that child enjoyed time at Puggles so much that he wanted to relive the experience at home! I also love the imagination kids have. One time, a Puggle offered me a pretend “peanut-butter-pretzel-macaroni sandwich” to eat.
By Victoria Tully September 2016
Who: Caleb Bowman
Position: Director for Trek and Journey
Caleb recently began his tenth year as the Trek Director and this is his first year as the Journey Director. In his youth, he attended Awana at First Baptist Church in his home town of Lapeer, MI for seven years. His involvement in CBC Awana began in 2007 when he became CBC’s Youth Pastor. Caleb believes Awana is one of the best programs for teaching kids and teens the Bible and leading them to follow Jesus! He loves being a part of that.
Caleb is married to Amie and has been for almost 11½ years. They have three children with the most recent birth occurring just days before he headed a mission’s trip to Trivandrum, India in August. Amie serves in Awana alongside Caleb as a Leader in Trek. His oldest daughter is now a Cubbie and with no doubt, the boys will also be involved when they are old enough. Caleb is an ordained pastor, and most importantly, his ordination occurred at CBC on June 28, 2009.
To get to know Caleb a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked him:
How long have you been involved in Awana? Seven years as a clubber and nine years as a director.
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? I love spending time with my small group and talking about God and the Bible.
What is your favorite Bible verse? Ephesians 4:15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.
Pizza or burger? Both!
What is your favorite hobby? Cooking BBQ for football parties.
What’s the one thing you can’t live without? My wife.
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? Trivandrum, India (9,200 miles)
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? Superman Ice Cream (unfortunately you can pretty much only find it in Michigan…and Heaven!)
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? When I was in 6th grade my friend Jim Dahlke and I tied the Awana Games record for the three-legged race.
Thank you Caleb for all your hard work and dedication serving the youth of our church programs!
Who: Leah Howell
Position: Cubbies’ Director
Leah has been the Cubbies’ Director for 12 years. Her involvement in Awana is important to her because she believes that teaching children the foundational truths about God as a young child affects the rest of their life. She loves sharing the elemental truths that God made each of us as unique individuals to serve Him. And, that God loves us just as He created us and we can trust Him to care for us. Sharing this with the Cubbies brings her much joy.
Leah did not attend Awana as I child. Growing up, her parents helped her learn hundreds of verses. She got involved in Awana as her youngest children became old enough to attend Cubbies at Calvary. All of her children went to Awana through Calvary. Austin and Caleb received Timothy Awards (the highest available at the time.) Isaiah, Houston, and Lexi received Citation Awards. Currently, four of her children are Awana leaders serving in Puggles, Cubbies, Sparks and T&T. You will also see Jim helping out where needed.
Leah met Jim at church and they have been married for 26 years. They have five children and have attended Calvary for 26 years. She grew up in Kansas living in Towanda and Wichita. She currently works at Homemade in a Hurry in Derby where several of her family recipes are made and sold including: Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas, different marinated meats and Pumpkin Spice Muffins. Leah serves on the board of Derby Area Circles. She and Jim volunteer weekly with the organization as Allies. She is also organizing two freezer teams to provide meals to help this organization.
To get to know Leah a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked her:
How long have you been involved in Awana? This is my 15th year
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? I love the teamwork in working with all the leaders and our Cubbies. I could never care for so many Cubbies without them. I am so proud of all my leaders and their hearts for the kids.
What is your favorite Bible verse? Job 8:19a… Behold, this is the joy of His way… Whatever I am doing today, that is what I am to find joy in… knowing He placed me here.
Pizza or burger? Burger & Fries
What is your favorite hobby? Favorite Hobbies include: reading, coloring, re­­-finishing furniture and traveling.
What’s the one thing you can’t live without? Hair Gel
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? Paris, France
Three words to best describe you… Practical, Straightforward, and Empathetic
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? I have 3 favorites: Coffee, Dark Chocolate, and Coconut ice cream.
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? My favorite Awana memory is that my kids regularly came home and asked more questions about God and salvation because of what they learned in Awana.
Thank you Leah for your compassion and dedication to share God’s elemental truths with our Cubbies!
By Victoria Tully November 2016
Who: Matt Thomison
Position: Sparks Leader
Matt has worked in Awana as a Sparks Leader for four years. He got involved in Awana after being recruited by previous Awana Commander Tim Janzen. Matt’s involvement in Awana is important to him because it is an opportunity to share the love of Christ with kids.
Matt grew up in Towanda, KS. He met his wife Trisha at a wedding where they both were in the wedding party. They have been married for 11 years, and they have six children. He has been a member at Calvary Baptist Church for 12 years. Their children, ranging from age four to ten, participate in Awana Cubbies, Sparks and T&T. The oldest daughter has been in Awana for eight years. Matt along with his family loves to go camping. They try to go about three times each year and their favorite spot is Rocky Mountain National Park. Matt currently works at Atlas Aerospace as a Manufacturing Engineer.
To get to know Matt a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked him:
How long have you been involved in Awana? Four years
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? I enjoy working with the kids to help them memorize and understand God’s word.
What is your favorite Bible verse? John 3:16 …For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
Pizza or burger? It’s a tie
What is your favorite hobby? Camping
What’s the one thing you can’t live without? Outside of Christ, it would be my wife.
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? Cochabamba, Bolivia
What is one word others use to describe you? Dependable
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? Rocky Road
Thank you Matt for your desire to use the opportunity to share the love of Christ with kids!
Who: Lisa Francis
Position: Trek Leader
Lisa is serving her second year as a Trek Leader. Prior to being in Trek, she served in T&T for 19 years and in Puggles for one year. Lisa’s involvement in Awana has spanned over 22 years. She got involved in Awana when she first joined CBC and was invited to help. Awana is very important to her because it is a way to reach children who do not know the Lord.
Lisa has been married for 42 years. She has two daughters, Emily and Erica, and one grandson, Ian.
She grew up in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Lisa met her husband there in 1970 when they both worked at Belks department store. He offered to give her a ride home from work and she had to call her mom to make sure it was OK! They stopped by Hardees on the way home and talked for hours! That was the beginning.The Air Force brought them to Derby in 1989 and they have lived here ever since.
Lisa is an artist and decorator. She is so thankful to have her daughters and grandson close by! They hang out together a lot and have lots of fun. Emily and Erica did not grow up in Awana but Emily served as an Awana leader in T&T for several years. Both girls also helped Lisa with plays and skits for Awana. Her grandson Ian is in Cubbies this year and really enjoys his leader, Tariq Izard.
To get to know Lisa a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked her:
How long have you been involved in Awana? 22 years
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? I most enjoy getting to know the kids in small group time and sharing Christ with them.
What is your favorite Bible verse? Matthew 16:25 "…whoever wishes to save his life will lose it but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it."
Pizza or burger? Definitely burger
What’s the one thing you can’t live without? Spiritually – My Bible, Physically – My Reading Glasses
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? I lived in Okinawa Japan for three years.
Three words to best describe you… learning through humiliation!
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? Salted Caramel
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? I love to remember that the sweet little girls who said their verses to me years ago are now godly young women who know love and serve the Lord!
Lisa, thank you for your continued service in Awana and making such a difference in the lives of many young girls leading them to the Lord!
By Victoria Tully January 2017
Who: Brian Hartzell
Position: T&T Boys Director
Brian is serving his first year as the T&T Boys Director. Prior to being in T&T, he served in Sparks as a Leader and before that as a Pals Leader. Brian got involved in Awana because his wife was already involved. It made sense for him to get involved. Brian’s involvement in Awana is important to him because he knows the children attending are the future of the Church.
For the most part, Brian grew up in Derby, where he and his wife Anita still live today. They have been married for 15 years and have three lovely daughters. Brian and Anita met at Calvary Baptist Church after he got out of the Marine Corp. He is still maintains an involvement in the Military working as a Military Analyst. His three daughters have always attended Awana at CBC with Addie currently in T&T, and Katie and Emma are in Trek. Anita serves in the office training under Barb Collins.
To get to know Brian a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked him:
How long have you been involved in Awana? This is my 5th year
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? I like being able to work with all of the boys and build relationships with them.
What is your favorite Bible verse? Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all you heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
What is your favorite hobby? Hunting
What’s the one thing you can’t live without? My wife
What is your favorite sport? Football… Go Bears!
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? Macedonia
Three words to best describe you… Determined, Initiative, Loving.
What is one word others use to describe you? Bald
Any hidden talent we don’t know about? I can wiggle my ears.
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? I don’t have just one. And most of them include Bruce Gass.
Thank you Brian for your commitment to directing the boys in T&T!
Who: Asa Carbon
Position: Game Director
Asa has been Assistant Game Leader for three years. Prior to being in this position, he was a Sparks Leader for one year. It was when Asa was serving as a Sparks Leader that he was asked to help Caleb Vrbas leading Game Time. Anyone who has had the opportunity to watch these two know how much time and effort they put into making sure Game Time is fun for the clubbers. And that leads to why Asa’s involvement in Awana is important to him; he wants to make sure the clubbers have fun and still learn. He enjoys being able to have fun with the kids and be a part of their favorite time of Awana.
Asa grew up on a farm in Peck, KS. He now lives in Wichita. Asa has attended CBC his whole life with the exception of a couple of years when his family moved to Colorado. He attended Awana through T&T. He works at a golf course where he gives lessons and helps manage the Pro Shop. He also helps his dad with the family business of refurbishing and flipping houses. Asa’s love of golf is shown by his playing the game as much as possible, which he explains is several times a week. He likes to hang out with his friends playing Frisbee, golf, just hanging out, and of course, eating. Asa also enjoys his time with his family. They like to play board games or find something fun to do. They all recently did “The Escape Room” in Derby which he described as a lot of fun!
To get to know Asa a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked him:
How long have you been involved in Awana? 3 years
What is your favorite Bible verse? Philippians 4:13 …I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. KJV
What is your favorite hobby? Golfing
What’s the one thing you can’t live without? Friends
What is your favorite sport? Golf
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? Uruguay, South America
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? Double chocolate cappuccino
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? Playing poison
Thank you Asa for your desire to make Game Time a fun component of Awana!
By Victoria Tully April 2017
Who: Caleb Vrbas
Caleb has been Game Director for three years. Prior, he served as a Cubbies Leader and Sparks Leader. Caleb has been involved in Awana his entire life. He started in Cubbies, graduated to a leader in Sparks, and later became Games Director. Caleb’s involvement in Awana is important because he loves kids, and he enjoys serving in this particular ministry.
Caleb grew up in the Derby/Wichita area. He currently lives in Derby with his wife Crystal. They have been married for two and one-half years. Caleb and Crystal met at CBC when they were very young. They don’t have any children yet but Caleb said when they do, when old enough their children will attend Awana. He is an accountant working at Flint Hills Resources (Koch Industries).
To get to know Caleb a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked him:How long have you been involved in Awana? 10 years
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? I really enjoy interacting with the clubbers!
What is your favorite Bible verse? Isaiah 40:31 …But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
Pizza or burger? Both
What is your favorite hobby? I enjoy weight lifting.
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? 1,304 miles- Cancun, Mexico
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? Espresso Chip
Any hidden talent we don’t know about? I am an exceptional movie watcher.
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? When I was in what is now T&T, Paul Snyder, Mark Janzen and I won the Awana Bible Quiz four years in a row.
Thank you Caleb for your love of kids and serving in the Awana Games ministry.
Awana Spotlight
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Who: Jim Schwab
Position: Awana Commander
Jim took over as the Awana Commander in 2012. Serving the Lord is important to him, especially when it comes to children’s ministry. Under Jim’s leadership, Awana participation has continued to show yearly growth. He loves watching the clubbers challenge themselves memorizing God’s Word and growing in God’s Word.
Jim has been married for over 21 years and has six children. He is part of the Aerospace industry working at Spirit as a stress engineer. Family time is most important to Jim including studying God’s Word with them. It’s no surprise that Awana is a family affair with his wife Melissa serving as Girls T&T Director, his oldest daughter serves as a Leader in T&T, and his other children participate in Cubbies, Sparks, T&T and Trek clubs.
Jim looks forward to the new Awana year and serving the Lord as Commander and being part of and watching as children grow in their faith.
To get to know Jim a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked him:
How long have you been involved in Awana? This is my 10th year.
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? Being an advocate for Awana, the church and the families that come to Awana.
What is your favorite Bible verse? 2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
What is your favorite hobby? Spending time with my family.
What is your favorite sport? College basketball
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? Western Caribbean
Three words to best describe you… observant, sacrificing, always growing
Any hidden talent we don’t know about? I can make a sound with my mouth that sounds like water dripping.
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? Watching my oldest daughter receive the Citation award.
Thank you Jim for all of your hard work and dedication!
By Victoria Tully August 2016
Who: Barb Collins
Position: Awana Secretary
Barb is starting her fourth year as the Awana Secretary. Prior to being the main secretary, she was the T&T secretary. Barb’s involvement in Awana has spanned three other states serving as Guards Director, Sparks Leader and Secretary and a Cubbies Leader. Her involvement began in Whidbey Island, Washington. She and her family had moved from North Carolina and wanted their youngest to continue in Cubbies. The club had so many Cubbies that they would only let him attend if she stayed and worked with them. According to Barb, that’s when she got hooked and from then on has worked at every Awana program her children attended. She thinks Awana is a wonderful ministry and loves being a part of helping young people memorize scripture and writing it upon their hearts.
Barb has been married to Sam for 46 years and has three children and six grandchildren. She is now retired but has worked as a second grade teaching assistant in North Carolina, a kindergarten instructional assistant in Virginia and most recently a high school library secretary in Derby.
She never felt she had any great musical or speaking talent or gift for ministry but feels she can be a worker bee who can help support others who are doing great things to minister and further God’s kingdom.
To get to know Barb a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked her:
How long have you been involved in Awana? About 20 years
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? Getting people the supplies and materials they need to perform their ministry in an organized manner.
What is your favorite Bible verse? Micah 6:8 He has showed you O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
What is your favorite hobby? I like all kinds of crafts including knitting, sewing and cross stitch. Right now I like to quilt, although my fabric purchase far out paces my production level.
What’s the one thing you can’t live without? Can’t imagine not having a sewing machine.
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? I’m a transplant to Derby and have lived on every coast with the furthest being Japan.
Any hidden talent we don’t know about? I can make some pretty good tents out of sheets and clothes pins and living room furniture for my grandkids.
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? In last year’s Grand Prix my grandson won all of his heats but his times were not good enough to get a trophy. He was crushed and didn’t understand. His friend Chase Hill received two first place trophies. Chase, on his own, came over and gave one to my grandson. I was so proud of Chase.
Thank you Barb for all of your hard work and we are all glad you are a worker bee!
Who: Erin Treiber
Position: Puggles Leader
Erin has been an Awana leader for six years. She got involved as a leader right after finishing Trek. Erin’s involvement in Awana is very important to her because she loves working with kids, especially the Puggles. It is so fun for her to see them grow and their personalities develop during the year. She watches them learn so much about God and the world around them. It is very rewarding to Erin when they remember the lessons they have been taught in Puggles.
For a short time she worked in Sparks but ended up back in Puggles. She really enjoyed her time in Sparks but the Puggles club has a special place in her heart.
Erin is not married. She has lived in Rose Hill with her family for 11 years. Erin has attended Calvary Baptist Church during those 11 years. She works at the Derby Target where she is a presentation team member. Her team resets the aisles and does all of the seasonal sets. She also helps ship items from the store.
To get to know Erin a little better, here are some questions I asked her:
How long have you been involved in Awana? Six years as a leader and 11 as a clubber (Cubbies through Trek)
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? Getting to know the kids better is my favorite aspect. When a two-year-old starts to talk to you about his or her day, it is always entertaining.
What is your favorite Bible verse? Psalm 43:5 Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God.
Pizza or burger? Pizza, hands down.
What is your favorite hobby? I love to run! Long-distance running in the fall is my favorite.
What is your favorite sport? Soccer or basketball. It’s a tie.
Three words to best describe you… enthusiastic, compassionate and loyal
What is one word others use to describe you? Spunky
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? Cookies and cream
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? One time a parent told us that her child would come home and want to “play Puggles!” It was really awesome to know that child enjoyed time at Puggles so much that he wanted to relive the experience at home! I also love the imagination kids have. One time, a Puggle offered me a pretend “peanut-butter-pretzel-macaroni sandwich” to eat.
By Victoria Tully September 2016
Who: Caleb Bowman
Position: Director for Trek and Journey
Caleb recently began his tenth year as the Trek Director and this is his first year as the Journey Director. In his youth, he attended Awana at First Baptist Church in his home town of Lapeer, MI for seven years. His involvement in CBC Awana began in 2007 when he became CBC’s Youth Pastor. Caleb believes Awana is one of the best programs for teaching kids and teens the Bible and leading them to follow Jesus! He loves being a part of that.
Caleb is married to Amie and has been for almost 11½ years. They have three children with the most recent birth occurring just days before he headed a mission’s trip to Trivandrum, India in August. Amie serves in Awana alongside Caleb as a Leader in Trek. His oldest daughter is now a Cubbie and with no doubt, the boys will also be involved when they are old enough. Caleb is an ordained pastor, and most importantly, his ordination occurred at CBC on June 28, 2009.
To get to know Caleb a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked him:
How long have you been involved in Awana? Seven years as a clubber and nine years as a director.
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? I love spending time with my small group and talking about God and the Bible.
What is your favorite Bible verse? Ephesians 4:15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.
Pizza or burger? Both!
What is your favorite hobby? Cooking BBQ for football parties.
What’s the one thing you can’t live without? My wife.
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? Trivandrum, India (9,200 miles)
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? Superman Ice Cream (unfortunately you can pretty much only find it in Michigan…and Heaven!)
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? When I was in 6th grade my friend Jim Dahlke and I tied the Awana Games record for the three-legged race.
Thank you Caleb for all your hard work and dedication serving the youth of our church programs!
Who: Leah Howell
Position: Cubbies’ Director
Leah has been the Cubbies’ Director for 12 years. Her involvement in Awana is important to her because she believes that teaching children the foundational truths about God as a young child affects the rest of their life. She loves sharing the elemental truths that God made each of us as unique individuals to serve Him. And, that God loves us just as He created us and we can trust Him to care for us. Sharing this with the Cubbies brings her much joy.
Leah did not attend Awana as I child. Growing up, her parents helped her learn hundreds of verses. She got involved in Awana as her youngest children became old enough to attend Cubbies at Calvary. All of her children went to Awana through Calvary. Austin and Caleb received Timothy Awards (the highest available at the time.) Isaiah, Houston, and Lexi received Citation Awards. Currently, four of her children are Awana leaders serving in Puggles, Cubbies, Sparks and T&T. You will also see Jim helping out where needed.
Leah met Jim at church and they have been married for 26 years. They have five children and have attended Calvary for 26 years. She grew up in Kansas living in Towanda and Wichita. She currently works at Homemade in a Hurry in Derby where several of her family recipes are made and sold including: Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas, different marinated meats and Pumpkin Spice Muffins. Leah serves on the board of Derby Area Circles. She and Jim volunteer weekly with the organization as Allies. She is also organizing two freezer teams to provide meals to help this organization.
To get to know Leah a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked her:
How long have you been involved in Awana? This is my 15th year
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? I love the teamwork in working with all the leaders and our Cubbies. I co
uld never care for so many Cubbies without them. I am so proud of all my leaders and their hearts for the kids.
What is your favorite Bible verse? Job 8:19a… Behold, this is the joy of His way… Whatever I am doing today, that is what I am to find joy in… knowing He placed me here.
Pizza or burger? Burger & Fries
What is your favorite hobby? Favorite Hobbies include: reading, coloring, re­­-finishing furniture and traveling.
What’s the one thing you can’t live without? Hair Gel
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? Paris, France
Three words to best describe you… Practical, Straightforward, and Empathetic
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? I have 3 favorites: Coffee, Dark Chocolate, and Coconut ice cream.
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? My favorite Awana memory is that my kids regularly came home and asked more questions about God and salvation because of what they learned in Awana.
Thank you Leah for your compassion and dedication to share God’s elemental truths with our Cubbies!
By Victoria Tully November 2016
Who: Matt Thomison
Position: Sparks Leader
Matt has worked in Awana as a Sparks Leader for four years. He got involved in Awana after being recruited by previous Awana Commander Tim Janzen. Matt’s involvement in Awana is important to him because it is an opportunity to share the love of Christ with kids.
Matt grew up in Towanda, KS. He met his wife Trisha at a wedding where they both were in the wedding party. They have been married for 11 years, and they have six children. He has been a member at Calvary Baptist Church for 12 years. Their children, ranging from age four to ten, participate in Awana Cubbies, Sparks and T&T. The oldest daughter has been in Awana for eight years. Matt along with his family loves to go camping. They try to go about three times each year and their favorite spot is Rocky Mountain National Park. Matt currently works at Atlas Aerospace as a Manufacturing Engineer.
To get to know Matt a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked him:
How long have you been involved in Awana? Four years
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? I enjoy working with the kids to help them memorize and understand God’s word.
What is your favorite Bible verse? John 3:16 …For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
Pizza or burger? It’s a tie
What is your favorite hobby? Camping
What’s the one thing you can’t live without? Outside of Christ, it would be my wife.
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? Cochabamba, Bolivia
What is one word others use to describe you? Dependable
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? Rocky Road
Thank you Matt for your desire to use the opportunity to share the love of Christ with kids!
Who: Lisa Francis
Position: Trek Leader
Lisa is serving her second year as a Trek Leader. Prior to being in Trek, she served in T&T for 19 years and in Puggles for one year. Lisa’s involvement in Awana has spanned over 22 years. She got involved in Awana when she first joined CBC and was invited to help. Awana is very important to her because it is a way to reach children who do not know the Lord.
Lisa has been married for 42 years. She has two daughters, Emily and Erica, and one grandson, Ian.
She grew up in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Lisa met her husband there in 1970 when they both worked at Belks department store. He offered to give her a ride home from work and she had to call her mom to make sure it was OK! They stopped by Hardees on the way home and talked for hours! That was the beginning.The Air Force brought them to Derby in 1989 and they have lived here ever since.
Lisa is an artist and decorator. She is so thankful to have her daughters and grandson close by! They hang out together a lot and have lots of fun. Emily and Erica did not grow up in Awana but Emily served as an Awana leader in T&T for several years. Both girls also helped Lisa with plays and skits for Awana. Her grandson Ian is in Cubbies this year and really enjoys his leader, Tariq Izard.
To get to know Lisa a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked her:
How long have you been involved in Awana? 22 years
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? I most enjoy getting to know the kids in small group time and sharing Christ with them.
What is your favorite Bible verse? Matthew 16:25 "…whoever wishes to save his life will lose it but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it."
Pizza or burger? Definitely burger
What’s the one thing you can’t live without? Spiritually – My Bible, Physically – My Reading Glasses
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? I lived in Okinawa Japan for three years.
Three words to best describe you… learning through humiliation!
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? Salted Caramel
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? I love to remember that the sweet little girls who said their verses to me years ago are now godly young women who know love and serve the Lord!
Lisa, thank you for your continued service in Awana and making such a difference in the lives of many young girls leading them to the Lord!
By Victoria Tully January 2017
Who: Brian Hartzell
Position: T&T Boys Director
Brian is serving his first year as the T&T Boys Director. Prior to being in T&T, he served in Sparks as a Leader and before that as a Pals Leader. Brian got involved in Awana because his wife was already involved. It made sense for him to get involved. Brian’s involvement in Awana is important to him because he knows the children attending are the future of the Church.
For the most part, Brian grew up in Derby, where he and his wife Anita still live today. They have been married for 15 years and have three lovely daughters. Brian and Anita met at Calvary Baptist Church after he got out of the Marine Corp. He is still maintains an involvement in the Military working as a Military Analyst. His three daughters have always attended Awana at CBC with Addie currently in T&T, and Katie and Emma are in Trek. Anita serves in the office training under Barb Collins.
To get to know Brian a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked him:
How long have you been involved in Awana? This is my 5th year
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? I like being able to work with all of the boys and build relationships with them.
What is your favorite Bible verse? Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all you heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
What is your favorite hobby? Hunting
What’s the one thing you can’t live without? My wife
What is your favorite sport? Football… Go Bears!
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? Macedonia
Three words to best describe you… Determined, Initiative, Loving.
What is one word others use to describe you? Bald
Any hidden talent we don’t know about? I can wiggle my ears.
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? I don’t have just one. And most of them include Bruce Gass.
Thank you Brian for your commitment to directing the boys in T&T!
Who: Asa Carbon
Position: Game Director
Asa has been Assistant Game Leader for three years. Prior to being in this position, he was a Sparks Leader for one year. It was when Asa was serving as a Sparks Leader that he was asked to help Caleb Vrbas leading Game Time. Anyone who has had the opportunity to watch these two know how much time and effort they put into making sure Game Time is fun for the clubbers. And that leads to why Asa’s involvement in Awana is important to him; he wants to make sure the clubbers have fun and still learn. He enjoys being able to have fun with the kids and be a part of their favorite time of Awana.
Asa grew up on a farm in Peck, KS. He now lives in Wichita. Asa has attended CBC his whole life with the exception of a couple of years when his family moved to Colorado. He attended Awana through T&T. He works at a golf course where he gives lessons and helps manage the Pro Shop. He also helps his dad with the family business of refurbishing and flipping houses. Asa’s love of golf is shown by his playing the game as much as possible, which he explains is several times a week. He likes to hang out with his friends playing Frisbee, golf, just hanging out, and of course, eating. Asa also enjoys his time with his family. They like to play board games or find something fun to do. They all recently did “The Escape Room” in Derby which he described as a lot of fun!
To get to know Asa a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked him:
How long have you been involved in Awana? 3 years
What is your favorite Bible verse? Philippians 4:13 …I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. KJV
What is your favorite hobby? Golfing
What’s the one thing you can’t live without? Friends
What is your favorite sport? Golf
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? Uruguay, South America
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? Double chocolate cappuccino
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? Playing poison
Thank you Asa for your desire to make Game Time a fun component of Awana!
By Victoria Tully April 2017
Who: Caleb Vrbas
Caleb has been Game Director for three years. Prior, he served as a Cubbies Leader and Sparks Leader. Caleb has been involved in Awana his entire life. He started in Cubbies, graduated to a leader in Sparks, and later became Games Director. Caleb’s involvement in Awana is important because he loves kids, and he enjoys serving in this particular ministry.
Caleb grew up in the Derby/Wichita area. He currently lives in Derby with his wife Crystal. They have been married for two and one-half years. Caleb and Crystal met at CBC when they were very young. They don’t have any children yet but Caleb said when they do, when old enough their children will attend Awana. He is an accountant working at Flint Hills Resources (Koch Industries).
To get to know Caleb a little better, here are answers to some questions I asked him:How long have you been involved in Awana? 10 years
What aspect of your role in Awana do you enjoy the most? I really enjoy interacting with the clubbers!
What is your favorite Bible verse? Isaiah 40:31 …But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
Pizza or burger? Both
What is your favorite hobby? I enjoy weight lifting.
What is the furthest you have been from Derby, KS? 1,304 miles- Cancun, Mexico
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? Espresso Chip
Any hidden talent we don’t know about? I am an exceptional movie watcher.
Do you have a favorite Awana memory? When I was in what is now T&T, Paul Snyder, Mark Janzen and I won the Awana Bible Quiz four years in a row.
Thank you Caleb for your love of kids and serving in the Awana Games ministry.