At some point tomorrow six of us will be headed to Fort Lauderdale where we'll meet Sunday morning around 10am to begin the security check prior to boarding the 30 passenger Florida Coastal Airways plane for Cap-Haitien, Haiti.
Dorothy reported that "people" spent the day at her house packing 15large boxes with shoes, clothing and medical supplies to be shipped soon. She has secured a ticket for her trip on MFI for Feb. 23rd...can't go before that, "doctor's orders."
I tried no less than 15 times to reach Linda today just in case they need some last minute items and/or funds but no luck getting through. Several of you have called to wish us well and your calls are deeply appreciated.
Looking at my duffel bag through the eyes of a TSA employee one would not be able to guess what plans could evolve other than sinister ones. One 1500watt inverter weighing 16#s, a 12" tile, 3 bundles of 1/8" steel cable, cable clamps, turnbuckles, dry wall screws, washers, an extremely varied selection of medical supplies, CDs to give as gifts, 100 photos of children from our previous trip, balloons for making balloon animals, electrical fixtures, one pair of crocs, jar of peanut butter, granola bars, TP, towel, 2 each of shorts, Ts, shirts and underwear. There's more but you get the idea and it's 2#s under the 50# limit.
There's no way to predict IF or when we'll be able to continue this blog but the effort will be made. Until then, thanks again for making this team feel part of something far greater than the seven individual volunteers.
Staton
Friday, January 29, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Little news from Haiti team today...
Checked in with Dorothy today for news and we both have heard nothing. A late email yesterday from Linda to DF revealed that Linda spent 4 hours at the VERY congested airport waiting for the MFI flight to come in with funds and supplies for the MN team.
To give you some perspective...the entire airport building is about 60 feet x 80 feet with a low ceiling and no air-conditioning other than a few ceiling and floor fans. The air can get a little close without a crowd. There are vending machines but no restaurant and a gaggle of porters scrambling to tote your luggage to a waiting taxi...usually run by a relative.
I spoke with Allen Rainey from Son Light Power in Cinci today...he's the one who put together our solar package and trained Dave Barrett and myself on New Years weekend. He'll be in Haiti next Wednesday working on six solar projects near PAP...projects that didn't even exist when we saw him. One busy guy. IF we get in trouble he'll be available if we need him, a blessing.
As I write this Dr. Paul Farmer is testifying before a congressional committee on Haiti relief on C-Span. He's spent the last 25 years working in the poorest and most remote areas of Haiti and formed an organization called "Partners in Health". He wrote a book that many Centralites have read that details some of his work there and around the world as his expertise in fund-raising (out of necessity) is only matched by his compassion for those in need of medical aid and financial support.
The book is, "Mountains beyond Mountains" and worth your time.
With one day remaining before our departure from TC, the mental checklist meets up with the physical one so nothing is forgotten, let's hope. Personally it will be good to see how things have changed in 15 months and greet the friends we made then while working side-by-side. One third of our team will be visiting Haiti for the first time, this too will be exciting.
P.S. People have asked about the Soaring Unlimited Website to learn more. As Methodists we strongly support UMCOR (over $6000 two Sundays ago) and Methodist congregations have supported the work of DF for 18 years through Soaring. The website has been updated to include a DONATE button, for earthquake relief, that allows credit card and Pay Pal contributions. You decide.
Staton
To give you some perspective...the entire airport building is about 60 feet x 80 feet with a low ceiling and no air-conditioning other than a few ceiling and floor fans. The air can get a little close without a crowd. There are vending machines but no restaurant and a gaggle of porters scrambling to tote your luggage to a waiting taxi...usually run by a relative.
I spoke with Allen Rainey from Son Light Power in Cinci today...he's the one who put together our solar package and trained Dave Barrett and myself on New Years weekend. He'll be in Haiti next Wednesday working on six solar projects near PAP...projects that didn't even exist when we saw him. One busy guy. IF we get in trouble he'll be available if we need him, a blessing.
As I write this Dr. Paul Farmer is testifying before a congressional committee on Haiti relief on C-Span. He's spent the last 25 years working in the poorest and most remote areas of Haiti and formed an organization called "Partners in Health". He wrote a book that many Centralites have read that details some of his work there and around the world as his expertise in fund-raising (out of necessity) is only matched by his compassion for those in need of medical aid and financial support.
The book is, "Mountains beyond Mountains" and worth your time.
With one day remaining before our departure from TC, the mental checklist meets up with the physical one so nothing is forgotten, let's hope. Personally it will be good to see how things have changed in 15 months and greet the friends we made then while working side-by-side. One third of our team will be visiting Haiti for the first time, this too will be exciting.
P.S. People have asked about the Soaring Unlimited Website to learn more. As Methodists we strongly support UMCOR (over $6000 two Sundays ago) and Methodist congregations have supported the work of DF for 18 years through Soaring. The website has been updated to include a DONATE button, for earthquake relief, that allows credit card and Pay Pal contributions. You decide.
Staton
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
E-mail from Linda today...
Linda visited a cyber cafe downtown CAP as the earthquake disabled the internet service at Dorothy's home. She reported that the solar panels arrived yesterday...good news, they were early and that the airpot is really congested (it was before) with relief workers entering there and busing down to PAP.
They have been working on drilling wells and at the clinic. Weather is good, life is pretty much normal except for the extra people everywhere who are seeking out their relatives for shelter.
Tonight, after the Won. Wed. meal, The Tile Doctor...Hank Visser...gave our team a brief lesson on laying out a room for a quality tile job. He had a few tips for leveling a difficult floor, which we have in places, and how to get the moisture content of the "thinset cement" just right. We learned to work in 24" grids and how to work as a team if space allows several bodies in the same area.
Dorothy reported that her doctor has cleared her to return to Haiti on Feb. 23rd and she'll go there with her daughter. Dorothy feels strong but gets tired pretty fast...needs to work on that.
As the song says..."our bags are packed...we're ready to go" and we are grateful for your genuine support and prayers.
Staton
They have been working on drilling wells and at the clinic. Weather is good, life is pretty much normal except for the extra people everywhere who are seeking out their relatives for shelter.
Tonight, after the Won. Wed. meal, The Tile Doctor...Hank Visser...gave our team a brief lesson on laying out a room for a quality tile job. He had a few tips for leveling a difficult floor, which we have in places, and how to get the moisture content of the "thinset cement" just right. We learned to work in 24" grids and how to work as a team if space allows several bodies in the same area.
Dorothy reported that her doctor has cleared her to return to Haiti on Feb. 23rd and she'll go there with her daughter. Dorothy feels strong but gets tired pretty fast...needs to work on that.
As the song says..."our bags are packed...we're ready to go" and we are grateful for your genuine support and prayers.
Staton
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Lots of news today...
When calling into Haiti...don't give up. After dozens of attempts to reach Linda from TC, it happened today! Very good to hear her cheerful voice and to share news both directions. She was at the airport waiting for whatever might come in, the ambient noise was fierce at first but she found an isolated spot. Since all calls are cutoff at some unknown length of time...we talked fast and we did get cut off after a generous 5 minutes.
The most interesting and heartening news, was that the tiny "Clinique Medicale Soaring de Pister", that CUMC and so many others have had a hand in, is serving the injured from Port au Prince. The mayor of Pister made arrangements to bus in overflow patients from Cap-Haitien to the remote clinic...CAP is FULL but managing the influx. Our first day at the clinic in '08 found us listening/observing the animated mayor giving a speech on the porch to the workers, Dorothy and the four of us. He promised to grade the road to the clinic..."next week", he was making a promise that even Dorothy thought would never be kept...two months after we left, the road was graded...3' deep trenches were filled in. "It looked like a four-lane highway," said Dorothy who had to admit she had misread the mayor's intentions. Good things happen when you trust in the Lord. The mayor is proud of the clinic and the staff!
I told Linda to expect the 500 feet of romex wire and the solar panels on the Thursday plane from MFI and our reservations were confirmed for Sunday for the six of us on the plane to Haiti. You may recall that Linda and several MN team members were delayed. Linda will obtain 3 batteries, even better quality than we expected, and the steel pole. To keep the pole secure, which will stand 16' tall, in strong winds we decided to attach guy wires/cables to it. Sounds like a small thing but it's not cheap. Jason, the manager (owner?) at Maxbauer Ace Hardware on Front St took a real interest in our project and made sure we had the best of everything. Best of all he ran the $117 tab through his account and Soaring Unlimited's Solar Project paid $17. Praise the Lord...people care and this is just one example, support is everywhere it seems.
There's plenty of food and fruit in CAP, the new well is working, there is more electricity in CAP than Linda has ever experienced but there is no Benadryl (I think we can handle that)and while banks aren't taking checks the normal money changers seem to have ample funds for conversion. Haitian dollars are ONLY used in Haiti.
Three of the MN men may stay over for a few days when we arrive, "It's going to be a little crowded but I think you'll find the men pretty interesting," according to Linda. OK! For some reason there doesn't seem to be very many tools lying around the house...hopefully they have been secured at Edrick's home as we'll need a variety of things that we're not taking...expecting them to be there.
Because there is so much cargo for even the passenger planes...when visitors check in with their luggage they are "sized-up", literally, to see how much they themselves weigh as well as their baggage. For this reason some luggage and cargo is "bumped" to the next flight or the next. We are counting heavily on our checked baggage to make it with us as we are each carrying important components for the jobs at hand...something else to pray about.
Speaking personally and for other team members who have shared with me...the sincere best wishes expressed by friends, families and strangers (see above), proves that the Holy Spirit is alive and working in and around us.
Staton
The most interesting and heartening news, was that the tiny "Clinique Medicale Soaring de Pister", that CUMC and so many others have had a hand in, is serving the injured from Port au Prince. The mayor of Pister made arrangements to bus in overflow patients from Cap-Haitien to the remote clinic...CAP is FULL but managing the influx. Our first day at the clinic in '08 found us listening/observing the animated mayor giving a speech on the porch to the workers, Dorothy and the four of us. He promised to grade the road to the clinic..."next week", he was making a promise that even Dorothy thought would never be kept...two months after we left, the road was graded...3' deep trenches were filled in. "It looked like a four-lane highway," said Dorothy who had to admit she had misread the mayor's intentions. Good things happen when you trust in the Lord. The mayor is proud of the clinic and the staff!
I told Linda to expect the 500 feet of romex wire and the solar panels on the Thursday plane from MFI and our reservations were confirmed for Sunday for the six of us on the plane to Haiti. You may recall that Linda and several MN team members were delayed. Linda will obtain 3 batteries, even better quality than we expected, and the steel pole. To keep the pole secure, which will stand 16' tall, in strong winds we decided to attach guy wires/cables to it. Sounds like a small thing but it's not cheap. Jason, the manager (owner?) at Maxbauer Ace Hardware on Front St took a real interest in our project and made sure we had the best of everything. Best of all he ran the $117 tab through his account and Soaring Unlimited's Solar Project paid $17. Praise the Lord...people care and this is just one example, support is everywhere it seems.
There's plenty of food and fruit in CAP, the new well is working, there is more electricity in CAP than Linda has ever experienced but there is no Benadryl (I think we can handle that)and while banks aren't taking checks the normal money changers seem to have ample funds for conversion. Haitian dollars are ONLY used in Haiti.
Three of the MN men may stay over for a few days when we arrive, "It's going to be a little crowded but I think you'll find the men pretty interesting," according to Linda. OK! For some reason there doesn't seem to be very many tools lying around the house...hopefully they have been secured at Edrick's home as we'll need a variety of things that we're not taking...expecting them to be there.
Because there is so much cargo for even the passenger planes...when visitors check in with their luggage they are "sized-up", literally, to see how much they themselves weigh as well as their baggage. For this reason some luggage and cargo is "bumped" to the next flight or the next. We are counting heavily on our checked baggage to make it with us as we are each carrying important components for the jobs at hand...something else to pray about.
Speaking personally and for other team members who have shared with me...the sincere best wishes expressed by friends, families and strangers (see above), proves that the Holy Spirit is alive and working in and around us.
Staton
Monday, January 25, 2010
Word from Linda and Hanania today...
Dorothy reached Linda this morning speaking for less than the 2 minutes alloted before being cut off. CAP is filling up with folks, clothing is in short supply for the transplants so Dorothy is making a local appeal to help meet that need.
The schools are closed until Feb. 17th so the funds for tuition that DF was so concerned about won't be needed until then. She will return around Feb. 21st and is off pain meds and walking without a cane...great news. The team is well & getting their work done, no problems so far.
Hanania reached me by phone, what a surprise since I'd had no luck getting through to them for 3 days. They found the batteries we need and the 3" x 20' pipe we need for mounting the solar array...a blessing. She confirmed all is well and will check the airport everyday for cargo that we've sent and the funds from MFI. They only fly into CAP on Tue and Thur and sometimes on Saturdays.
Dorothy told me more about Barbara Walker's work at the orphanage in Von Repo, Haiti, where she runs "Ruuska Village"...a village of 15 homes with nannies that care for the children she prepares for adoption. Go to www.reachouttohaiti.com/ or Google "ruuska village Haiti" and you'll see a couple blogs etc. that detail her work.
Dorothy works closely with Barbara and any donations made out to Soaring Unlimited should be marked "Earthquake Relief" and mailed to; Dorothy Frederickson, c/o Soaring Unlimited, Box 61, Holt, MI,48824. You'll receive a 501.3c charity tax receipt. Donations to UMCOR are detailed on a previous posting.
Ruuska Village was 80% damaged, no buildings are safe, 45 children sleep outdoors and it's located 10 miles NE of PAP. 14 of Barbara's children are ready for adoption and 6 have been released! At age 65 she has a fierce determination to take care of the ever-increasing orphan population...that's why Dorothy is aligned with her.
Hanania warned that our luggage might not arrive at the same time we do...Linda's was 4 days late..."so prepare to live in what you bring in the 10# carryon bag."
Staton
The schools are closed until Feb. 17th so the funds for tuition that DF was so concerned about won't be needed until then. She will return around Feb. 21st and is off pain meds and walking without a cane...great news. The team is well & getting their work done, no problems so far.
Hanania reached me by phone, what a surprise since I'd had no luck getting through to them for 3 days. They found the batteries we need and the 3" x 20' pipe we need for mounting the solar array...a blessing. She confirmed all is well and will check the airport everyday for cargo that we've sent and the funds from MFI. They only fly into CAP on Tue and Thur and sometimes on Saturdays.
Dorothy told me more about Barbara Walker's work at the orphanage in Von Repo, Haiti, where she runs "Ruuska Village"...a village of 15 homes with nannies that care for the children she prepares for adoption. Go to www.reachouttohaiti.com/ or Google "ruuska village Haiti" and you'll see a couple blogs etc. that detail her work.
Dorothy works closely with Barbara and any donations made out to Soaring Unlimited should be marked "Earthquake Relief" and mailed to; Dorothy Frederickson, c/o Soaring Unlimited, Box 61, Holt, MI,48824. You'll receive a 501.3c charity tax receipt. Donations to UMCOR are detailed on a previous posting.
Ruuska Village was 80% damaged, no buildings are safe, 45 children sleep outdoors and it's located 10 miles NE of PAP. 14 of Barbara's children are ready for adoption and 6 have been released! At age 65 she has a fierce determination to take care of the ever-increasing orphan population...that's why Dorothy is aligned with her.
Hanania warned that our luggage might not arrive at the same time we do...Linda's was 4 days late..."so prepare to live in what you bring in the 10# carryon bag."
Staton
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Waiting for news is hard...
This weekend has been filled with silence from Linda and the MN team but planning and support from many areas continues locally. The fact that banks are closed has impacted areas of Haiti that were not devasted by the earthquake...transplants from PAP are filtering throughout the nation and as far north as Cap-Hatien.
Considering that on a normal day electricity is sporadic at best, gasoline or diesel costs more than $5 and per capita income is anywhere from $3-800...a cash crunch seems minor...it's not.
Dorothy reminded me today that the tuition, books and other student expenses are due at this time for around 80 students...$150 each.
Email at her house is still not operational and numerous attempts on my part to get through to Linda by phone have been met with busy signals or endless ringing...a sign that the system is overloaded.
At this writing the Minnesota Vikings are struggling in the latter stages of the 2nd half...the MN team members are likely wondering if the NFC championship will be theirs.
Our team is eager to go, we make room daily for additional items that are donated and the solar project gets tweaked here and there as possible shortages are contemplated...such as 12 volt batteries.
Prayers are being offered and answered everyday, yours are deeply appreciated.
Staton
Considering that on a normal day electricity is sporadic at best, gasoline or diesel costs more than $5 and per capita income is anywhere from $3-800...a cash crunch seems minor...it's not.
Dorothy reminded me today that the tuition, books and other student expenses are due at this time for around 80 students...$150 each.
Email at her house is still not operational and numerous attempts on my part to get through to Linda by phone have been met with busy signals or endless ringing...a sign that the system is overloaded.
At this writing the Minnesota Vikings are struggling in the latter stages of the 2nd half...the MN team members are likely wondering if the NFC championship will be theirs.
Our team is eager to go, we make room daily for additional items that are donated and the solar project gets tweaked here and there as possible shortages are contemplated...such as 12 volt batteries.
Prayers are being offered and answered everyday, yours are deeply appreciated.
Staton
Friday, January 22, 2010
Light news day from our team...
Linda checked in today via email..."All is OK, bring cash". Sounds more like a request from a teenager. Dorothy has addressed the short-term needs.
Denise Edick helped with the photo updates on this blog, thanks Denise...it comes naturally to her, not me. We thought the map on the slide show would be informative. CAP is on the ocean to the north.
Missionary Flights International is flying persons and cargo into PAP at no cost...there are restrictions though...if you or someone you know wants to go. Hendrick Motorsports is providing the plane, crew and fuel. The contact number at MFI is 772-462-2395 for teams who wish to be placed on a waiting list for scheduling..both inbound and outbound. Flights leave from Ft. Pierce, FL. What a blessing!Go Nascar!
Staton
Denise Edick helped with the photo updates on this blog, thanks Denise...it comes naturally to her, not me. We thought the map on the slide show would be informative. CAP is on the ocean to the north.
Missionary Flights International is flying persons and cargo into PAP at no cost...there are restrictions though...if you or someone you know wants to go. Hendrick Motorsports is providing the plane, crew and fuel. The contact number at MFI is 772-462-2395 for teams who wish to be placed on a waiting list for scheduling..both inbound and outbound. Flights leave from Ft. Pierce, FL. What a blessing!Go Nascar!
Staton
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Linda checked in with Dorothy 3:30pm today
Linda was able to reach Dorothy today by phone, until her calling card minutes ran out, and ALL IS WELL! Cap-Haitien even has electricity sometimes and they have it at the house, occassionally.
The banks are closed so they've had to be resourceful since the money changers don't take checks. They have been working at the clinic plastering and painting the food storage building, painting doors and tomorrow the MN team will drill a second well on the property. That well will have a hand pump on it for locals to obtain water for FREE.
There were no specific problems mentioned, a blessing, and the MN men were able to get the transmission for the 2nd truck installed. Some miising parts are on the way.
Yesterday Hanania and Bryan (MN team) went to the Dominican Republic and were able to bring back over 100 gallons of fuel for the truck and generators.
Our own Health Ministries Team raised more than they expected at their Wonderful Wednesday meal last night and this morning donated $150 to needs of the Soaring Unlimited Clinic. Thanks to all the preparers and attendees. Turkey meatloaf never tasted sooo good.
Email is not working at Dorothy's home, the tower that serves her company is located in PAP...Cyber Cafes have internet service but they haven't had time for such things. Their luggage did arrive yesterday so clothing and supplies that were packed with clothes are there.
The solar panels arrived at MFI yesterday so the project is coming together. No mention was made of the impact from an influx of Haitians migrating north to be with relatives or otherwise.
Staton
The banks are closed so they've had to be resourceful since the money changers don't take checks. They have been working at the clinic plastering and painting the food storage building, painting doors and tomorrow the MN team will drill a second well on the property. That well will have a hand pump on it for locals to obtain water for FREE.
There were no specific problems mentioned, a blessing, and the MN men were able to get the transmission for the 2nd truck installed. Some miising parts are on the way.
Yesterday Hanania and Bryan (MN team) went to the Dominican Republic and were able to bring back over 100 gallons of fuel for the truck and generators.
Our own Health Ministries Team raised more than they expected at their Wonderful Wednesday meal last night and this morning donated $150 to needs of the Soaring Unlimited Clinic. Thanks to all the preparers and attendees. Turkey meatloaf never tasted sooo good.
Email is not working at Dorothy's home, the tower that serves her company is located in PAP...Cyber Cafes have internet service but they haven't had time for such things. Their luggage did arrive yesterday so clothing and supplies that were packed with clothes are there.
The solar panels arrived at MFI yesterday so the project is coming together. No mention was made of the impact from an influx of Haitians migrating north to be with relatives or otherwise.
Staton
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Team preparations are ramping up...
Dave B and I both contacted Florida Coastal Air this morning to determine if cargo is bumping luggage from flights to CAP. They say NO. So, we are sticking to the plan to carry the two inverters, the control panel, some wiring, fixtures, tools and the solar panel frames in our luggage.
Dorothy had no news from Haiti, I tried to call Linda but only get a busy signal, so far. Apart from the assurance that people are OK,
frequent or regularly spaced calls can't be expected...it's too tough.
After another excellent Wonderful Wednesday meal tonight, Bob, Elena, Carla and myself split up the current stockpile of essentials, some of which were mentioned above...we are limited to 50# each plus a 10# carry on bag...sound easy? it's not.
Sen. Jason Allen returned my call on another matter today, wished us all well and made a very good suggestion which has been taken care of. We provided Sen. Carl Levin, Rep. Dave Camp and Sen. Allen's offices with our contact info and their info has been emailed to each member...just in case. Great idea Jason!
We have a great team, lots of expertise, strong faith and dedication plus the support of a very caring and generous congregation. Blessings to all.
Those of us who are returning to Haiti look forward to seeing friends and co-workers, making new friends, expanding our reach into the village that's near the clinic and delighting in the children. All team members will have experiences that too few choose to try.
Staton
Dorothy had no news from Haiti, I tried to call Linda but only get a busy signal, so far. Apart from the assurance that people are OK,
frequent or regularly spaced calls can't be expected...it's too tough.
After another excellent Wonderful Wednesday meal tonight, Bob, Elena, Carla and myself split up the current stockpile of essentials, some of which were mentioned above...we are limited to 50# each plus a 10# carry on bag...sound easy? it's not.
Sen. Jason Allen returned my call on another matter today, wished us all well and made a very good suggestion which has been taken care of. We provided Sen. Carl Levin, Rep. Dave Camp and Sen. Allen's offices with our contact info and their info has been emailed to each member...just in case. Great idea Jason!
We have a great team, lots of expertise, strong faith and dedication plus the support of a very caring and generous congregation. Blessings to all.
Those of us who are returning to Haiti look forward to seeing friends and co-workers, making new friends, expanding our reach into the village that's near the clinic and delighting in the children. All team members will have experiences that too few choose to try.
Staton
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Apparently luggage was lost...
The wife of one of the Minnesota team members, who Linda is working with, has been contacted by her husband and it sounds like most, if not all, the luggage didn't get put on their plane...cargo must have taken precedent. Four women went into CAP with Linda so they have been sharing and they all stayed at Dorothy's home on Sunday, perhaps longer.
Gasoline is $10/gallon when available, the rain has continued for over 24 days, there is flooding here and there and a noticeable increase in the population of the city.
The MN men have been busy working on getting another truck operational since their objective, well drilling, has been stymied by an argument over who really now owns the well drilling unit that they donated in the first place. They also have no drilling pipe.
Tomorrow I'll check with MFI to see if they suggest we send our inverters, control panel and solar panel framework to them (things we were planning to carry with us in checked baggage). Florida Coastal Airways may have lost the luggage of just one flight (Linda's) or might be under orders to take medical supplies etc. first...then luggage.
Dorothy says..."that's life in Haiti" under normal circumstances so you have to expect something else in the worst of times.
FYI The Funk website has been updated www.funk4.com (Our Bolivian missionaries' assignment has changed).
Staton
Gasoline is $10/gallon when available, the rain has continued for over 24 days, there is flooding here and there and a noticeable increase in the population of the city.
The MN men have been busy working on getting another truck operational since their objective, well drilling, has been stymied by an argument over who really now owns the well drilling unit that they donated in the first place. They also have no drilling pipe.
Tomorrow I'll check with MFI to see if they suggest we send our inverters, control panel and solar panel framework to them (things we were planning to carry with us in checked baggage). Florida Coastal Airways may have lost the luggage of just one flight (Linda's) or might be under orders to take medical supplies etc. first...then luggage.
Dorothy says..."that's life in Haiti" under normal circumstances so you have to expect something else in the worst of times.
FYI The Funk website has been updated www.funk4.com (Our Bolivian missionaries' assignment has changed).
Staton
Monday, January 18, 2010
Praying that no news is good news...
No word from or about Linda today but Cyrus Sibert, the administrator of the Soaring Unlimited Clinic did reply that he went to PAP to retrieve his sister and brother and brought them back...safely. He's Dorothy's top person in her absence. Hanania Orelus just returned from the states where she gave birth to a daughter in early December...between the two the clinic and other operations of Soaring Unlimited get done when Dorothy's away.
Lack of cell coverage and electricity limits outgoing messages, I'm assuming that Linda will contact us when necessary and able.
Sadly, the Rev. Sam Dixon...global head of UMCOR...perished after being one of four UMCOR officials rescued from the Hotel Montana.
His legacy and the work of UMCOR will live on in part through the $6000 that was collected in Sunday's special offering. Blessings to all who have taken Haiti into their heart.
Carrefour was the epicenter of the earthquake, there has been no word yet, the Rev. Paul Doherty hopes to know something tomorrow. It was reported on TV that the town was leveled and barren of people. CUMC supports the school there.
Grace Children's Hospital...the building was damaged, one child perished and all other children and staff are safe, living in the courtyard.
Know of someone or a group that wants to go to Haiti? Visit this website; www.airmobile.org and check out their blog...people with certain skills are being flown in as part of Air Mobile Ministries in PAP. You may call Cherie at; 3two1-6nine8-842six. The number is written this way to prevent spammers from intercepting it. Use the numerical version when calling.
Soaring Unlimited works with Barbara Walker in Port au Prince. That orphanage has been 80% destroyed but has been flooded with new orphans. www.reachouttohaiti.com is the website for donations OR when you donate to Soaring Unlimited, mark your memo line "Haiti
Earthquake Relief" and drop it at the church office...your money will go with us to help those orphans.
Today we were notified that $1000 was donated to Soaring Unlimited's Solar project...that puts us over the top. ALL additional donations will go to assist the orphans mentioned above.
Sunday, Carla Roberts and I had a wonderful experience at Children's Church...we taught about 20 youngsters how to say/sing "Yes, Jesus loves me" in Creole. Carla led them in song and I documented the enthusiasm on video which we'll play for a similar group in Haiti. Additionally, over 50 young people donated a small toy and enclosed it with their photo in a zip-lock bag for us to deliver. Bravo.
Central...you are a blessing to so many and in so many ways, especially through your prayers. Thank you.
Staton
Lack of cell coverage and electricity limits outgoing messages, I'm assuming that Linda will contact us when necessary and able.
Sadly, the Rev. Sam Dixon...global head of UMCOR...perished after being one of four UMCOR officials rescued from the Hotel Montana.
His legacy and the work of UMCOR will live on in part through the $6000 that was collected in Sunday's special offering. Blessings to all who have taken Haiti into their heart.
Carrefour was the epicenter of the earthquake, there has been no word yet, the Rev. Paul Doherty hopes to know something tomorrow. It was reported on TV that the town was leveled and barren of people. CUMC supports the school there.
Grace Children's Hospital...the building was damaged, one child perished and all other children and staff are safe, living in the courtyard.
Know of someone or a group that wants to go to Haiti? Visit this website; www.airmobile.org and check out their blog...people with certain skills are being flown in as part of Air Mobile Ministries in PAP. You may call Cherie at; 3two1-6nine8-842six. The number is written this way to prevent spammers from intercepting it. Use the numerical version when calling.
Soaring Unlimited works with Barbara Walker in Port au Prince. That orphanage has been 80% destroyed but has been flooded with new orphans. www.reachouttohaiti.com is the website for donations OR when you donate to Soaring Unlimited, mark your memo line "Haiti
Earthquake Relief" and drop it at the church office...your money will go with us to help those orphans.
Today we were notified that $1000 was donated to Soaring Unlimited's Solar project...that puts us over the top. ALL additional donations will go to assist the orphans mentioned above.
Sunday, Carla Roberts and I had a wonderful experience at Children's Church...we taught about 20 youngsters how to say/sing "Yes, Jesus loves me" in Creole. Carla led them in song and I documented the enthusiasm on video which we'll play for a similar group in Haiti. Additionally, over 50 young people donated a small toy and enclosed it with their photo in a zip-lock bag for us to deliver. Bravo.
Central...you are a blessing to so many and in so many ways, especially through your prayers. Thank you.
Staton
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Cap-Haitien receiving influx from PAP
Dorothy has not heard from anyone today but Hanania did say, in their last conversation, that CAP is filling up with persons displaced by the earthquake...the city is very busy.
Grace Children's Hospital in PAP had structural damage to the building but it's still standing. The children are safe and using the courtyard and playground equipment. Contributions for that school go through the advance # 418520. Contact the office for details on how your check should be made out.
There is no news yet on the school at Carrefour where our Haiti Hot Lunch support goes...Bill Donberg will be in contact with the Rev. Paul Doherty of the Michigan Haiti Task Force on Monday & report back.
FYI My posts are usually done in the evening and it was heartening to have so many of you come up and say you've been actually reading them! Staton
Grace Children's Hospital in PAP had structural damage to the building but it's still standing. The children are safe and using the courtyard and playground equipment. Contributions for that school go through the advance # 418520. Contact the office for details on how your check should be made out.
There is no news yet on the school at Carrefour where our Haiti Hot Lunch support goes...Bill Donberg will be in contact with the Rev. Paul Doherty of the Michigan Haiti Task Force on Monday & report back.
FYI My posts are usually done in the evening and it was heartening to have so many of you come up and say you've been actually reading them! Staton
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Linda arrives in Cap-Haitien, Haiti
Linda arrived in CAP today after all, Hanania was able to reach Dorothy by cell phone, 700#s of cargo cleared customs and was safely transported to the mission house. The main bridge damaged by the earthquake is able to have light trucks, cars and motorcycles pass over it but not heavy trucks and fuel is becoming scarce already but remains available...all the above can be considered blessings, praise the Lord.
The solar panels have also been shipped so all the pieces of the puzzle are slowly falling into place. Sadly things don't appear to be getting better for those in Port au Prince despite the best efforts of so many humanitarians and governments and faith-based NGOs. Please pray for our Haitian brothers and sisters who suffer this day from hunger, thirst, pain and homelessness.
Staton
The solar panels have also been shipped so all the pieces of the puzzle are slowly falling into place. Sadly things don't appear to be getting better for those in Port au Prince despite the best efforts of so many humanitarians and governments and faith-based NGOs. Please pray for our Haitian brothers and sisters who suffer this day from hunger, thirst, pain and homelessness.
Staton
Friday, January 15, 2010
Linda in FL but delayed until Sunday AM
Linda P has arrived Fort Lauderdale and has learned that she and the others from Minnesota (four women) have been delayed until Sunday morning, early. No reason given.
VIM teams have to be flexible. Other news today; two inverters we've been waiting for arrived, intact, so only the solar panels remain in limbo with a shipping date of Monday.
Dorothy's surgeon told her yesterday she could return to Haiti at any time...her general practitioner saw her today and wants her to see him on Jan. 29th before he'll clear her for departure...she's disappointed but her GP knows her best and noticed that she walked with a little limp today and he wants her to be stonger. She did put the walker away and now uses a cane. Bravo!
There has been no contact today with staff in Cap-Haitien, Haiti. Cellphone restoration is a priority and it's possible that lack of electricity makes charging batteries an adventure...it was even during good times.
Staton
VIM teams have to be flexible. Other news today; two inverters we've been waiting for arrived, intact, so only the solar panels remain in limbo with a shipping date of Monday.
Dorothy's surgeon told her yesterday she could return to Haiti at any time...her general practitioner saw her today and wants her to see him on Jan. 29th before he'll clear her for departure...she's disappointed but her GP knows her best and noticed that she walked with a little limp today and he wants her to be stonger. She did put the walker away and now uses a cane. Bravo!
There has been no contact today with staff in Cap-Haitien, Haiti. Cellphone restoration is a priority and it's possible that lack of electricity makes charging batteries an adventure...it was even during good times.
Staton
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Minnesota VIM team arrived Cap-Haitien
Three men from the Minnesota team that were bumped off their flight yesterday did arrive in CAP today. Linda P leaves tomorrow and is scheduled to fly in on Saturday...God willing.
Last-minute paperwork for both teams was transferred to me today with the knowledge that there may not be future cell phone contact since Hanania Orelus' phone call to Dorothy this morning was cut off and no further contact made. Cap-Haitien has had cell coverage up to now but as of 9pm tonight there has been no further contact.
Dorothy did receive good news today from her doctor...she can return to Haiti whenever she chooses...her leg has met his requirement of extending to a certain number of degrees without pain. This was good news for all concerned as she was expecting to be cleared no earlier than Jan. 29th and it takes a couple weeks, ordinarily, to arrange tickets with Missionary Flights International.
Hanania indicated, before the cutoff, that over 700#s of cargo is ready to be picked up in CAP...fuel is beginning to become scarce so a large load is better than several small loads. You can see from this small example how every move needs to be thought out to conserve energy and other resources.
Dorothy mentioned tonight that much of the food we'll be eating is grown nearby and most meals are made from scratch...a good example is her pancakes are made from flour etc...not pancake mix. Eggs and chicken come from the Dominican Republic to the east...fuel, however, comes from the south where CNN has announced they are out of jet fuel already. Oddly there has been no word of any quake issues in the Dominican area...this is a blessing though.
Linda leaves tomorrow, please keep her in your prayers, she has been there five times and each trip has presented new opportunities to..."Do all the good you can, as often as you can".
Staton
Last-minute paperwork for both teams was transferred to me today with the knowledge that there may not be future cell phone contact since Hanania Orelus' phone call to Dorothy this morning was cut off and no further contact made. Cap-Haitien has had cell coverage up to now but as of 9pm tonight there has been no further contact.
Dorothy did receive good news today from her doctor...she can return to Haiti whenever she chooses...her leg has met his requirement of extending to a certain number of degrees without pain. This was good news for all concerned as she was expecting to be cleared no earlier than Jan. 29th and it takes a couple weeks, ordinarily, to arrange tickets with Missionary Flights International.
Hanania indicated, before the cutoff, that over 700#s of cargo is ready to be picked up in CAP...fuel is beginning to become scarce so a large load is better than several small loads. You can see from this small example how every move needs to be thought out to conserve energy and other resources.
Dorothy mentioned tonight that much of the food we'll be eating is grown nearby and most meals are made from scratch...a good example is her pancakes are made from flour etc...not pancake mix. Eggs and chicken come from the Dominican Republic to the east...fuel, however, comes from the south where CNN has announced they are out of jet fuel already. Oddly there has been no word of any quake issues in the Dominican area...this is a blessing though.
Linda leaves tomorrow, please keep her in your prayers, she has been there five times and each trip has presented new opportunities to..."Do all the good you can, as often as you can".
Staton
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Word from Haiti & How to Help
Images of Haiti in destruction were vivid; anguish, chaos, shock, fear, pain, and even joy, when a life was spared, blasted the world today. Dorothy fielded dozens of phone calls all day, had two TV interviews and one print interview with the Lansing State Journal...people want to help, are worried about the friends of Soaring Unlimited and Haiti in general.
Centralites can help with donations to two organizations, both of whom give 100% to Haitian relief with no administrative costs. Through UMCOR...go to:
http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umcor/
Soaring Unlimited works with "Reach out to Haiti", an organization in Port au Prince that operates two orphanages under the guidance of Barbara Walker who is Dorothy's dear friend there. Barbara is OK but they need lots of help. Please send checks, made out to Soaring Unlimited and marked "Earthquake Relief" in the memo line, to Central UMC. These checks will be sent to Dorothy before our team leaves on the 29th.
Cap-Haitien is about 160 miles north of Port au Prince and suffered little damage, Linda still plans to leave for there Friday along with four ladies from Minnesota.
Three men from MN were asked to fly tomorrow instead of today to allow emergency workers in first.
The balance of our team plans to leave as scheduled. Several of us were at the Wonderful Wednesday meal tonight answering questions and sharing what little we know. The support and caring we felt tonight was enormous and appreciated. Your prayers for all the people and relief workers and missioners in Haiti give strength beyond measure...thank you.
Staton
Centralites can help with donations to two organizations, both of whom give 100% to Haitian relief with no administrative costs. Through UMCOR...go to:
http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umcor/
Soaring Unlimited works with "Reach out to Haiti", an organization in Port au Prince that operates two orphanages under the guidance of Barbara Walker who is Dorothy's dear friend there. Barbara is OK but they need lots of help. Please send checks, made out to Soaring Unlimited and marked "Earthquake Relief" in the memo line, to Central UMC. These checks will be sent to Dorothy before our team leaves on the 29th.
Cap-Haitien is about 160 miles north of Port au Prince and suffered little damage, Linda still plans to leave for there Friday along with four ladies from Minnesota.
Three men from MN were asked to fly tomorrow instead of today to allow emergency workers in first.
The balance of our team plans to leave as scheduled. Several of us were at the Wonderful Wednesday meal tonight answering questions and sharing what little we know. The support and caring we felt tonight was enormous and appreciated. Your prayers for all the people and relief workers and missioners in Haiti give strength beyond measure...thank you.
Staton
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Earthquake Update/Cap-Haitien
It's 9pm Tuesday...the "worst day in Haiti's history" according to one report sent in to CNN...nearly 3 hours ago a 7.0 quake hit the southern city of Port au Prince with its epicenter ten miles to the west in Carre four.
I just spoke with Linda Poindexter who had heard from Dorothy Frederickson that Cap-Haitien has been spared...her home is safe. Hanania Orelus, the clinic administrator, called to let Dorothy know all is well...so far. Hanania's husband is a police officer in PAP and his home was destroyed (he is safe) but many police officers were lost in the quake. We are thankful that this brand new father will be able to help others in the disaster and that his life was spared.
One has to wonder how many more natural disasters will be inflicted upon Haiti, especially the area of Port au Prince...they are still recovering from four hurricanes that hit in 2008 plus the two schools that collapsed.
Please pray for this country, this embattled people and for the relief workers that will, again, rush to assist where they can. Linda Poindexter leaves this Friday for Haiti to await the arrival of a VIM team from Minnesota...she's "covering" for Dorothy who reports continued progress with her physical therapy after knee replacement surgery 11/30/09. Linda will need our prayers as well.
Cap-Haitien is the 2nd largest city in Haiti...about 200 miles north of PAP...and has a population of around 300,000 depending on whose statistics you consider reliable. It's a port, has a fire station (the only one other than in PAP), an airport and a United Nations peace keeping force is based there. The UN is also involved in food distribution and will likely be called upon for disaster assistance.
It has rained for nearly a week which has contributed to loss of email service and further disruption of electric service so it was a blessing that Hanania was able to reach Dorothy by telephone.
Central supports the Haiti Hot Lunch Program in Carre Four, feeding hundreds of school children every day in a secure compound...due to a block wall around the buildings and play area. We have no news regarding the school. This is the center of the quake...one can only pray that all are safe.
Haiti is no longer a "place" for dozens of Centralites who have made the trip there over the years...it's home to our friends, it's very much more real than a video clip or "sound-bite".
Staton
I just spoke with Linda Poindexter who had heard from Dorothy Frederickson that Cap-Haitien has been spared...her home is safe. Hanania Orelus, the clinic administrator, called to let Dorothy know all is well...so far. Hanania's husband is a police officer in PAP and his home was destroyed (he is safe) but many police officers were lost in the quake. We are thankful that this brand new father will be able to help others in the disaster and that his life was spared.
One has to wonder how many more natural disasters will be inflicted upon Haiti, especially the area of Port au Prince...they are still recovering from four hurricanes that hit in 2008 plus the two schools that collapsed.
Please pray for this country, this embattled people and for the relief workers that will, again, rush to assist where they can. Linda Poindexter leaves this Friday for Haiti to await the arrival of a VIM team from Minnesota...she's "covering" for Dorothy who reports continued progress with her physical therapy after knee replacement surgery 11/30/09. Linda will need our prayers as well.
Cap-Haitien is the 2nd largest city in Haiti...about 200 miles north of PAP...and has a population of around 300,000 depending on whose statistics you consider reliable. It's a port, has a fire station (the only one other than in PAP), an airport and a United Nations peace keeping force is based there. The UN is also involved in food distribution and will likely be called upon for disaster assistance.
It has rained for nearly a week which has contributed to loss of email service and further disruption of electric service so it was a blessing that Hanania was able to reach Dorothy by telephone.
Central supports the Haiti Hot Lunch Program in Carre Four, feeding hundreds of school children every day in a secure compound...due to a block wall around the buildings and play area. We have no news regarding the school. This is the center of the quake...one can only pray that all are safe.
Haiti is no longer a "place" for dozens of Centralites who have made the trip there over the years...it's home to our friends, it's very much more real than a video clip or "sound-bite".
Staton
Saturday, January 9, 2010
New member added to Hait Mission Team
The Central UMC members going to Haiti are; Linda Poindexter, Elena Wentz, Carla Roberts, Laura Larson, Staton Lorenz and Bob Featherstone. Bob is our newest member and a welcomed addition, he owned and operated an electrical contracting business in TC for a number of years. We won't be crossing any wires with Bob's experience guiding us during the wiring of the clinic and the Solar Voltaic Power system.
Dave Barrett, his 14 year old daughter Amanda, and Sybil Weaver...all from the Eaton Rapids area make up the balance of the team.
Dorothy Frederickson is now home and walking, with the aid of a walker, and awaits her doctor's approval before booking airfare to Haiti to join the team late in our stay. Your prayers have been answered...her recovery, while painful, has been good.
Dave Barrett, his 14 year old daughter Amanda, and Sybil Weaver...all from the Eaton Rapids area make up the balance of the team.
Dorothy Frederickson is now home and walking, with the aid of a walker, and awaits her doctor's approval before booking airfare to Haiti to join the team late in our stay. Your prayers have been answered...her recovery, while painful, has been good.
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