BY IRIS B. HOLTON
Sentinel City Editor
The Alternative Christian Entertainment (TACE) organization has offered a different atmosphere to Christians has been in existence since 2010. The organization targets a segment of the population, but others are welcome.
Greg Brown, founder of TACE, said the organization is not limited to just Christians, but “For people who want to socialize, but who don’t like the bar scene.
“It’s an alternative to what’s out there for Christians, which is nothing, really.”
Brown said the organization doesn’t have a permanent home yet, but has recently been meeting at the Tampa Club, 101 E. Kennedy Blvd., on the 42nd Floor. It typically meets on the first Friday of the month.
On Saturday, August 11th, at 6 p.m., Brown and members of TACE will sponsor “An Evening With Kim Burrell.” The concert will take place at the Center For Manifestation, 3102 E. Lake Avenue.
He stated that by sponsoring gospel concerts, it offers an alternative to the club scene to Christians as well as members of the general community.
Brown said TACE generally targets the 18 to 35 age group. However, older people in the age range of 65 to 70, have come out to enjoy themselves. The attendees have also come from surrounding counties as well.
Brown said he initially had a vision to create the organization during a business class. “We were talking about ideas and I had a vision of bringing something unique to Tampa. Others have tried it in the past, but were unsuccessful.
“It started out as a “First Friday” type of venue with about 30 people. God gave me a vision and He has certainly provided.”
TACE combines faith with entertainment, music, the arts, social, and professional networking.
Brown has already began the next phase of planning. In March 2013, TACE will host its First Gospel Music Festival at the Curtis Hixon Park in downtown Tampa.
A native of Fort Lauderdale, Brown moved to Tampa in 2001 to attend the University of South Florida. He graduated with a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering. Brown currently teaches at Hillsborough Community College.
A member of Exciting Central Tampa Baptist Church, Brown is single and the father of 1 daughter. He enjoys spending time with his family, outdoor activities and working out.
