6-1-16 Wednesday 6:41 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
Cindy had been cooking up a feast for the beach party. It was Peter's 19th Birthday and an absolutely perfect day at the famous Cocoa Beach at "The Pier".
Our daughter, Juliet and her husband Shaun flew in (from Massachusetts) for the party and a little get-away to celebrate their 1st Anniversary.
Oh, it was a sweet day!! Here's a little YouTube Clip capturing a bit of the party. PETER'S BEACH PARTY - COCOA BEACH
Back to the party, Cindy made, by special request from Peter a scrumptious "Mocha Cake". 
When everyone arrived at the party, all 35 of us tasted that exquisite delight on the beach. Now, that's how to have a PARTY!As all of this was happening, Paul, our remarkable aircraft mechanic was opening up the Little Donkey and doing the Annual Inspection. So far, so good! The Little Bird is flying like a dream.
In the meantime, we're gathering supplies and resources for our "Next Mission". Only our Lord knows where that will be, but we're getting ready!
As always, THANK YOU for your invaluable prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-31-16 Tuesday 6:21 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
19 YEARS AGO TODAY....
It's a day I'll never forget. Almost lost Cindy and Peter. The Lord surely answered our prayers!
Peter was ready to come into this world and Cindy had a serious blood clot. This is an extremely dangerous combination! Because of a very aware doctor and lots of prayer, today, we celebrate Peter's 19th birthday. God is good...all the time!!
We'll be celebrating his birthday and having a grand party at Cocoa Beach this afternoon. It is a day to rejoice!
As I reflect back on that day, it is evident just how fragile life is, but how mighty and loving our Heavenly Father is! Our lives are in His Hands!!
Our daughter Juliet and her husband Shaun will be flying in from Massachusetts this afternoon to join our celebration.
Later this morning, I'll be in meetings with Pastor Lenny and Bob Bland of Teen Missions.
We're arranging the transfer of the Church Property (Air Mobile Headquarters) to Pastor Lenny and Banana River Baptist Church.
I remember so well the day we met Lenny and agreed to rent the church building to him!
BTW, so glad that Doug suggested we put that sign out! Thanks, Doug!!
The Church is "On-Fire" with the love of Jesus and growing beautifully!! We're so proud of Lenny and the great work he is doing to share the Good News of Jesus!!
Paul has begun the Annual Inspection on the Little Donkey and Yahn is putting Air Mobile Rescuers together....getting ready for our "next mission"...wherever that might be.
Time to get on with this day and head out the door. Yes, it feels good to be home...for a while. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
Air Mobile Joe
5-30-16 Monday 6:49 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
REMEMBERING....
Today is Memorial Day in America. It is a day to REMEMBER those who have given their lives for our freedom. May we remember....
It is a particularly sad day for Cindy and our family, as she lost her little brother, Tommy, in Beruit, Lebanon on October 23, 1983. Tommy was a 19 year old United States Marine ...and a fine young man who loved Jesus.
Here's more on that terrible day - 1983 BERUIT BARRACKS BOMBING
We are certainly not alone. Many Americans have given their lives that we might know and experience Freedom in this great Country. May we remember and pray for the families who have lost loved ones in this great cause.
Of course, our Lord Jesus gave His life that we might be FREE from sin and death. THANK YOU, LORD JESUS!Yesterday was another remarkable day of ministry inside Hospital Walls. The residents of University Behavioral Center (UBC), many of whom have been either "Court Ordered or Baker Acted" have known great suffering and pain.
It is such an awesome privilege to go inside this Hospital and bring the Good News of Jesus. We are so THANKFUL for the Open Door to minister there. We have had the privilege to participate in this precious ministry for over 18 years.
BTW, when we first began this ministry, Peter was only 6 months old. Now, he is 6'3" and in college. He (along with our other children) has spent nearly every Sunday afternoon of his life involved in this ministry.
Usually, after our Ministry, we share a meal and fellowship. Yesterday, we were joined by a new Volunteer, Erika (seated next to Cindy). We hope that Erika will join us on a permanent basis. If you'd like to join us in this wonderful outreach, please contact me at: airmobilejoe@gmail.com .
We conduct 3 separate services (for adolescents & adults) every Sunday. UBC is located in Orlando right next to UCF (University of Central Florida). The services begin at 1:30 and end at 2:30-2:45.
If you'd like more information either write me at the e-mail above or give me a call at: 321-544-7757. We are always looking for Volunteers to share the Good News of Jesus!!
We do hope you enjoy this Memorial Day and please remember to PRAY for those who have lost loved ones in Service to America. God bless and as always, THANK YOU for your greatly appreciated prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
PS - Here's a brief "History" of Memorial Day - MEMORIAL DAY ACCORDING TO WIKIPEDIA
5-29-16 Sunday 6:57 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
SUNDAY IN AMERICA
Yes, it's good to be home! After, over 5 weeks & 40+ flights, "on the road & in the air", it feels good to sleep in my own bed. Sunday Morning in America feels good!!
Yesterday, Cindy brought "Miss Barbara" to spend the day with Dr. Steve & Millie Badolato. Ariana spent the day and last night with Lensa (their adopted daughter).
So good seeing those girls together! They have such awesome stories and they're alive today because of Barbara!!
Meanwhile, I met with Paul, our aircraft mechanic, and we discussed the upcoming Annual Inspection.
I spent the day running around and taking care of a multitude of "chores". Stopped in and spent some time with Christian (my son) and his sweet family.
Christian is a true "Computer Geek" (that's a complement!) and helps folks solve their computer related problems.
We discussed a recent issue that I had with "memory". Good to have a computer expert in the family.
This morning, Cindy and I are up and preparing our respective "Sermons" for the Hospital Chaplain ministry.
We'll be joined by the Menendez Family and together, conduct 3 services to the Adolescent and Adult hospital residents. We're so THANKFUL for this open door to carry the Good News of Jesus to them.
As always, THANK YOU for your greatly appreciated prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-28-16 Saturday 7:59 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
DRIVING "MISS BARBARA"
It's fun watching Barb's "Fans" come out to wherever she is just to see her. Anytime Barb comes to Florida, one of her first stops is Dr. Steve's.
Joe & Lydia & Sage were there. Then came Megan who would be Barb's first driver of the day.
But first, Dr. Steve checked her X-Ray and determined the best way to keep Barb moving and in minimum pain.
Barb then presented Dr. Steve with a "Signed" copy of "Make that Baby Happy". You may recall that Dr. Steve adopted Lensa, the little girl with the critical burns.
Lensa is now an amazing athelete and has a heart of gold. As a matter of fact, Millie (Steve's wife), will be coming to pick up Barb and Ariana today. Ariana and Lensa will spend the day together.
Back to "Driving Miss Barbara"; after the Doctors appointment and Megan had driven Barb to multiple stops (The Dollar Store & Staples), I met them "on the road" and continued driving Barb to the Hangar to fill up 2 big suitcases with Baby Food, Formula and diapers. Barb's daughter works for American Airlines and Barb can fly for free. The "Village" had completely run out of baby food.
So, Barb caught a ride back to the U.S. in the Little Donkey (on Thursday) and then, she'll fly back on American Airlines to Haiti with that precious food for the babies. Pretty creative and economical!
Today, I'll be meeting with Paul (our great aircraft mechanic) and will be going over a few "Squawks" on the Little Donkey. It's ANNUAL INSPECTION time again. Happens every year around this time.
Time to run and as always, THANK YOU, for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-27-16 Friday 6:35 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
GOING "DEEP" INTO CUBAN AIRSPACE
It was time to wrap up this epic journey that took the Little Donkey over 8000 Nautical Miles (1/3 of the way around the world in miles).
Just read on down to see where all the Little Donkey galloped to. We were "South of the Equator" in Ecuador and brought a lot of folks clean water, hope and shared the love of Jesus.
On the way back from Ecuador, stopped in Haiti for fuel and a whole lot more. Was able to train another "Water Mule" and work toward getting Search & Rescue (SAR) into Haiti...a true "Life Saving Operation"!
Now, it was time to point the Little Donkey's nose toward home. But....there was a growing, brewing, stewing system developing just East of my route home.
Knew that I'd likely have to wander into Cuban Territory to get around those bad boys that were growing right before my eyes.
And, Barb needed a ride back to the U.S. to get some more formula, baby food and diapers for the kids in the Village. We prayed and took off.
It was just as I thought. Those cells grew and spread over my route to Florida. I requested permission to fly "deep" into Cuban territory.
We went deeper and deeper into Cuban Airspace. The young Cuban ATC Controller was extremely courteous and....we were not alone. American, Delta, Jet Blue and a few other aircraft joined me into the tightly controlled airspace.
Barb and I had a good ride. Though there were massive build-ups to the East of our route, the hardly had a bump or bounce.
We landed Fort Pierce and quickly cleared. Had the short ride back to TICO, our home base.
We then headed to El Chapperal, a nice Mexican Restaurant and met Cindy, Ariana and Peter for a Celebration dinner. Ahhhh, great to be home!!!
Again, I THANK God for giving us such a great mission to Ecuador and Haiti. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-26-16 Thursday 4:53 AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
A SIGNIFICANT MOVE FORWARD FOR SEARCH & RESCUE (SAR) IN HAITI
The day began with bidding farewell to Mark, Doug and Aaron. They flew back to the U.S. following a very successful "Exploratory Mission" to Haiti. We're looking forward to having them back....on a regular basis.
Particularly pleased to have Mark keeping an eye on the Air Mobile Rescuer Inventory!! His "Master Plumber" skills are a great asset to keeping clean water flowing in Haiti!!
Once we got that team situated and headed to the airport early with plenty of "buffer" time for the traffic, I headed to the airport to meet with Dave of MAF (Mission Aviation Fellowship).
Dave had been invited to share the MAF Story with an "Agency Wide" group of Haitian leaders regarding the establishment of a viable Search & Rescue (SAR) operation in Haiti.
We rode over to the SAR meeting together and most importantly, had some valuable prayer time along the way.
Dave explained the history of MAF and so eloquently gave God the Glory for the remarkable success of MAF in Haiti.
Dave pointed out, that after 30 years of operation in Haiti, MAF had not had a single accident. We all praised God for that remarkable testimony!
MAF has saved many lives over the years and now with the establishment of SAR in Haiti, many more lives will be saved. I'm so blessed to be part of this new "noble mission"!!
After the SAR meeting the Director General of OFNAC (the FAA of Haiti) requested to meet with me to go over a number of significant proposals that had been prepared by the Harris Corporation, whom I represent in Haiti.
Harris, as you may know, has installed all new Air Traffic Control (ATC) Communications in both Port-au-Prince and Cap Haitian.
The system is working so well that Haiti's Airspace is under consideration for expansion. That is the reason for the establishment of SAR in Haiti. Praise God!!
The meeting with Director General Lemerque went very well.
Harris is responding to a number of request from OFNAC to continue these excellent improvements in the ATC System in Haiti. The bottom line is: Air Safety in Haiti is making significant strides forward!!
So, we have another beautiful day that our Lord has made. What lies ahead? Only He knows, but I'm determined to hold tightly to His hand!
As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-25-16 Wednesday 4:57 AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
IT'S THE SMALL FOXES THAT SPOIL THE VINE
Mark (our newest "Water Mule" in-training) and I spent the day in Joe's Depot bringing Air Mobile Rescuers back to life.
Mark's Master Plumbing skills proved to be invaluable in solving a problem that just had me completely stumped.
There was one Rescuer that I could not repair. Had tried everything (or so I thought) to get it working, but nothing seemed to solve a strange flow problem.
Do you know the way that, sometimes, you can look at something over and over again and just not see it?
Well, Mark's fresh set of eyes saw the tiny crimp (the "small fox") that was very well hidden and... "Voila", the problem was solved!BTW, the last time I experienced a "Crimped" line was about 9 years ago. It is not a common problem at all.
Now, with this latest "re-discovery", I can assure you that all the lines will be very closely inspected during each refurbishment. THANK YOU, MARK!
It was a very good day in the "Depot". At the end of the day, we had an inventory of 11 Air Mobile Rescuers "ready to go"!While Mark and I were busy at work in Joe's Depot, Doug and Aaron were planning the next "Mission Trip" with Barbara.
Doug is the Mission's Pastor and wants to begin sending small teams to Haiti as both a "Training Exercise" as well as being a blessing to Barbara and the kids.
They've already selected the next project. Mark will probably accompany the team and will be able to bring the Air Mobile Rescuer inventory back up when he arrives.
As you may know, Air Mobile has 337 Air Mobile Rescuers spread throughout Haiti. When a Rescuer needs serving or repair, the operator simply needs to bring the unit to the "Village". Right on the spot, he is provided with a fresh, refurbished Rescuer...at NO CHARGE! In that way, the CLEAN WATER keeps flowing!!
Dirty, contaminated drinking water is the #1 Cause of sickness and disease in Haiti and in most developing countries around the world!! The Air Mobile Rescuer can fix that!!!
Will be in a critical Search & Rescue (SAR) meeting today. Please PRAY with us that Haiti continues to make positive moves toward establishing an excellent SAR Operation. Many lives depend upon it.
As always, THANK YOU for your precious and truly appreciated prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-24-16 Tuesday 5:59 AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe Many years ago
FRESH WATER MULES
Many years ago, Joe Polozola introduced me to Jesus. For that, I am eternally grateful! Joe is my best friend on this earth!! Yesterday, Joe's son, Mark, along with 2 others (Doug and Aaron) arrived in Haiti.
BTW, I was there when Mark was born. Have known this boy all of his life. Love him like my own son!! Mark has many qualities, but the best one is his love for Jesus and his desire to serve HIM!
When I picked them up at the airport, I warned them that the ride back to the "Village" may take awhile. That prediction was correct.
Nearly 4 hours later, we rolled into the "Village". What an introduction to Haiti. A true work in PATIENCE!!
I'll be training Mark and Crew on the operation of the Air Mobile Rescuer. Like his Dad, Mark is a Master Plumber. He'll pick up on the Rescuer with no problem.
We'll also be going over some equipment to be used in outdoor Evangelism. We're very excited about this team.
Mark's church, of which Doug is the Mission's Pastor, is interested in sending some of their Mission Students to Haiti for advanced training. This is the perfect place for that!!
After spending yesterday on the road through grueling traffic (7+ hours to travel 10 miles!), we'll be working in Joe's Depot today and learning how to make dirty water very clean, a noble mission!
As always, THANK YOU for your invaluable prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-23-16 Monday 5:09 AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
IN A POOL OF SWEAT BUT....WASHED IN THE WORD
Haiti can be brutally hot. Yesterday was a day of just trying to stay mildly cool. I have a great little tool. A "Spritzing Bottle". Carry it with me everywhere I go.
That little bottle can turn any fan into a make-shift air conditioner but....it only lasts for about 3-5 minutes. Then one needs to squirt another mist at the fan and enjoy a few more minutes of "bliss"... and so forth and so on.
After catching up on my e-mails and scanning the world news and checking on earthquakes at my "Haiti Desk" I realized that it was a good time to just "Read the Word".
I lay down, with my "spritzing bottle" in one hand and the Word in the other and began at Revelation 1:1
It was in this order, sweat - squirt - read, sweat, squirt - read. Just kept kept on reading chapter after chapter.
Now, Revelation is a hard book to read if you begin to dig around. But, if you just read it straight through, it's quite an amazing book.
Ended up reading all 22 Chapters. Then checked back in Matthew 24, Luke 21 and Mark 13 to read what Jesus tells us to look for regarding the Signs of His Second Coming.
While reading Revelation, I heard the Blue Ford Ranger come in and out of the "Village" several times. Remember how we fixed the Air Conditioner (read on down for that story) and got it blowing very cold?
Certain members of the Team that are here at the "Village", kept finding reasons to "run to the store" in the Air Conditioned Blue Ford Ranger....to stay cool. We're now well stocked up on toilet paper and chips!
When the sun finally set and it began to be the "Cool of the evening", we sat around and told stories and sang old Worship Songs. The wind was blowing and the memories of the hot day slowly drifted away.
I felt also as if I'd been "Washed in the Word". Love reading the Book of Revelation. The truth is, Jesus is Coming Soon! And I say...."Come quickly, Lord Jesus"!!
This week, have some very critical meetings coming up concerning the establishment of Search & Rescue here in Haiti. Will be quite busy this week and above all PRAYING for our Lord's leading regarding this noble mission.
BTW, Jesus is on a "Search & Rescue Mission" for lost souls!!
As always, THANK YOU for your invaluable prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-22-16 Sunday 5:39 AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
BLOWING COLD...AHHH!
Air Conditioning is a true luxury in Haiti, because Haiti is HOT! The Blue Ford Ranger has air conditioning but....that precious cold air was barely coming out of the vents.
Yesterday, I called upon 2 NASA Engineers, John & Jason to help me find out why. They dug into the dash and for a while, we were stumped. 
Then, the acronym, A.S.A.P. came up (Always Say! A Prayer) and literally moments after we prayed....VOILA, we found the problem!
The Evaporator Coil was completely plugged up with a thick, sticky mud-like coating.
We got a spritz bottle, filled it with Fantastic and then a bleach solution and cleaned the coil and now, it's blowing a lot of cold, refreshing air.
Now, that may seem like a little thing, but the countless hours of sitting in a hot truck in almost unimaginable traffic jams has been changed to a more "pleasant experience"! VICTORY!!Wanted to see what progress, if any has been made on that collapsed bridge that has brought such turmoil to the already insane traffic of Haiti.
Got on the little blue motorcycle and headed to the scene of the collapsed bridge. Here's a snap-shot of what's happening - JOE DESCRIBES SCENE AT COLLAPSED BRIDGE
I could see just up-stream from the bridge there was a lot of activity. Went to check it out and this is what I saw...some vehicles were crossing that river. Here's a glimpse of a large truck crossing - LARGE TRUCK CROSSING RIVER IN HAITI
Then a guy in a blue Ford F-150 decided to try it and made it across. The problem that will happen is, the holes will get deeper and deeper as the large trucks go through and smaller vehicles can be swamped. BLUE FORD F-150 CROSSES RIVER IN HAITI
On the way back to the "Village" I decided to visit a site that brings me great sadness.
After the terrible earthquake of January 12, 2010, many, many bodies of the victims were buried in a mass grave. I witnessed this first-hand. It was a horrible scene.
Now, Haiti has built a Monument to those who lost their lives on that dreadful day. I re-visited the scene and spent a little time there praying for the families who lost their loved ones.The sign says (translation): MEMORIAL - JANUARY 12, 2010 - HAITI DOES NOT FORGET...Nor will I.
One of the guards at the Memorial needed a ride back to town, so the Little Blue Motorcycle accommodated. It was a sad ride back to the Village.
BTW, this was the first time I had been back to this spot since that terrible day. Literally tens of thousands of Haitians were buried in mass graves here.
Once back at the "Village", our group of prospective parents and helpers were all having sweet fellowship and we waited for the "Blue Moon and Mars" to rise on the horizon. I tried to capture the beautiful celestial scene with my I-Phone, but it did not do it justice.
As I say every single day, and mean with all of my heart, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-21-16 Saturday 5:49 AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
QUIET DAY IN THE "VILLAGE"
With the "insane" traffic in Port-Au-Prince, due to the collapsed bridge, one does NOT go out unless one absolutely has to go out. I opted to just hang around the village and catch up on some paperwork and do a few other chores.
While in Haiti, I always like to crank up the little blue motorcycle to charge the battery and have it ready to "Go" on a moments notice. Love the little bike and so do the "village kids".Took them for a couple of "spins" down Main Street of Ruuska village. The battery got charged and so did their smiles.
Was pleasantly surprised to find 6 Air Mobile Rescuers still in "Inventory". These units are available as "replacement" units for any of our 337 Rescuers in the field in Haiti. This system of immediate replacement, keeps the clean water flowing in Haiti. If a Rescuer malfunctions for any reason and the operator cannot solve the problem, all they have to do is bring their unit to the "Village" and it will be replaced immediately with a refurbished unit at...NO CHARGE!
We have offered this life-time warranty in Haiti for over 12 years and intend to continue to do so....with your prayer, love and support!!
In several days, will have a "Team" arrive from the U.S. and will be training them on becoming "Genuine Air Mobile Water Mules".
We'll "trouble-shoot" the 4 units that need attention and they will get "actual" experience in diagnosing and repairing the remarkable Air Mobile Rescuer, the machine that brings CLEAN water to a THIRSTY WORLD!
While in the "Village", I'm always captivated by the kids. Most, have stories that would break your heart, but here, they are safe and headed to good homes.
Barbara has done such a remarkable job of creating this "Village" and bringing hope to so many. I'm just glad to be part of it. I wonder what this kid is thinking... Have a little work to do on the Village Truck today and have a couple of NASA Engineers here from the U.S. (adopting kids). We'll go and figure it out. Time for that 2nd cup of coffee and to get on with this beautiful day that our Lord has made.
As always, THANK YOU AGAIN, for your precious and invaluable prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-20-16 Friday 5:11 AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
YOU GET THE FOOD & I'LL GET THE WATER
As providence would have it, my good friend and dear Brother, Bob Bostic was in Haiti. Bob is the Founder of "Deliver the Difference", a ministry that provides food to the hungry.
You may recall that Bob is working with Cindy and me to get several containers of food to the starving children of India. We've known and worked with Bob all over the world.
It just so happened that Bob's flight back to the U.S. was leaving yesterday afternoon and we managed to meet at the LaMaison Cafe' very near the airport. (Hmmmm....is that a halo over Tim and my head?? LOL!!)
When we're putting a mission together, I often say...."Bob, you get the food & I'll get the water".
Sitting at the table with us was Bob's team and I'm with a couple of local pilots (Bernard and Roger). Oh, we had a great lunch and some wonderful fellowship sharing how our Lord has been so gracious to us all!!
Earlier yesterday, while driving through the now famous or "infamous" grid-lock, I explain the problem as we cross the old Eiffel Bridge.
This bridge is very old, but still standing. Now, the extra load being put on it (due to the other collapsed bridge) is putting it into danger of collapsing also. This would cut the country into two!! Here's the YouTube clip - CROSSING THE OLD EIFFEL BRIDGE 
BTW, I took this close-up shot of the "Signature" of Eiffel on the bridge and I think the date is 1880!
And just minutes before crossing the bridge, I captured a shot of a "Barrow Driver" pulling a load of scrap metal for recycling. This has to be one of the hardest jobs in all of Haiti. A BARROW PULLER IN HAITI DELIVERING SCRAP METAL
Since the ever present "grid-lock affords so much "sit time", been just shooting little video clips to pass the time. Here's another clip - WHY I CAN'T DRIVE MY MOTORCYCLE IN HAITI...RIGHT NOW
Back to what happened yesterday. After the "grid-lock run" and before meeting Bob Bostic, I had the blessing and privilege to present a Harvester Weather Station to MAF (Mission Aviation Fellowship).
This self contained, remote WX Station will provide accurate weather information via satellite updated every 10 minutes. This will be a tremendous help to all of the pilots flying into Port-de-Paix on the north coast of Haiti. Thank you, again, Peter of Harvester!!
So, what does today hold? Not sure, but I know Who does know! It's time to head out into this beautiful day that our Lord has made and...hold tightly to His Hand! As always, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-19-16 Thursday 4:19 AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
CAN'T REMEMBER EXACTLY WHEN.....
Looks like I'll be in Haiti for a bit longer than planned. That is due to a scheduling change and some upcoming meetings. So....I took the whole day off yesterday and....Read Barbara's new book, "Make That Baby Happy!!"
Can't remember when the last time I took a whole day and just read a book. Now, Haiti is hot and there is no air conditioning. One must douse one's self with "Off" and open all the windows, turn on the fan and stay hydrated.
OK, I'll admit it... I cried a lot and laughed a whole lot and strolled down memory lane. Cindy and I met Barb in Haiti 22 years ago.
Twins had been born in our "Mud Hut Village" and weren't doing well. I was flying a Hurricane Relief Mission and Cindy had to return to the U.S. The twins needed help and Cindy found Barb and asked if she could help save them. One died before Barb could get there, the other one survived. Her name is "Baby Ruth".
Oh, Folks, I urge you to get this book! Barbara tells her story and you'll be blessed and like me, you will likely cry and laugh a lot.
Here's the best way to get it: Just write Barbara at: reachouttohaiti@yahoo.com and request it and (make a donation to cover the cost). Barb will get it to you.
Well, back to yesterday. Haiti celebrated "Flag Day" and everything was closed. I had a few extra days in my schedule and decided to just do nothing but...read that whole book. I did, cover to cover.
Barb had to go back to the States on some business, so we're "covering" the Village while she's gone.
We've got 2 families here from the States that are doing adoptions and they're spending their mandated 2 weeks here in- country. We've had sweet fellowship and good food.
Today, it'll be "back to work". Have a weather station to help get into position on the north coast with MAF (Mission Aviation Fellowship) and some Air Mobile Rescuers that need some loving attention.
After nearly a month "on the road", glad I took that day off and just enjoyed a great book! So, it's time for that second cup of coffee and hit the road and face "Grid-Lock" once more.
As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-18-16 Wednesday 6:29 AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
I COULD FLY TO SOUTH AMERICA QUICKER THAN GETTING FROM THE "VILLAGE" TO THE AIRPORT (ABOUT 5 MILES!)....GRID LOCK!!
Recently, a bridge on a vital route in Haiti collapsed. Now, the funnel is full, full, full. I experienced "grid-lock" like I haven't experienced since the terrible earthquake.
Barbara had warned me about this, but the reality of just sitting for hours and hours and moving literally inches at a time really "tumbled" my instruments.
While sitting (very frustrating) in this seemingly unending and rather insane line, I made a few YouTube videos describing what it's like. Here's the first one - 1ST VIDEO WHILE "EARLY" IN LINE
About an hour into this dreadfully aggravating journey, I try to squeeze some more good out of just sitting here and crawling along by observing the folks on the side-walk. My frustration level is rising. MIDWAY THROUGH THE GRID LOCK JOURNEY - TRYING TO FIND SOME GOOD
I go from trying desperately to find a good "Spiritual lesson" to one of nearly "cussing". Patience is not one of my favorite virtues!! WHEN PEOPLE BREAK OUT OF LINE AND JUMP AHEAD....MAKES YOU WANT TO CUSS
Finally, after nearly 3 hours, I arrived at the airport! That was the same time as it took to fly from Cartagena, Colombia to Port-Au-Prince in the Little Donkey.
What did I learn during this "pleasant" journey through insane gridlock? God is far from through with me!!
I was on a "Mission from God". Had a beautiful Weather Station to deliver to Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) for the northern town of Port-de-Paix.
Peter, from New Zealand manufactures this remarkable device that has a solar panel and an Iridium Satellite phone connection. With that, one can go on-line and see what the current weather is at the station. What a wonderful gift and tool!! THANK YOU, PETER!!
Took this beautiful device out of the box and put the system together. Will be testing it and training a staff member of MAF on the simple operation of the unit tomorrow.
Afterwards, stopped into OFNAC (the FAA of Haiti) and met with a couple of dear friends and Brothers in Christ. Ran across one controller that remembered the miraculous "Sea Rescue" of many years ago*.
It was so good just visiting and remembering how our Lord has moved so miraculously in our lives (Revelation 12:11)!!
That excursion into the past where our Lord moved so mightily helped me on my 3 hour, grid-lock journey back to the "Village". Yes, slowly, but surely, our Lord is teaching "more patience"!
Today is "FLAG DAY" in Haiti and is a National Holiday. I'll just hang out at the "Village" and repair a few Air Mobile Rescuers.
As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support. BTW, my finger is much better!! Almost miraculously so. Thanks for your prayer for our Lord to touch that finger!!
Air Mobile Joe
* Many years ago in Haiti, a boat with 6 men capsized. They were lost. The search had been called off after nearly 2 days of searching. I found out about it and had the "feeling" from the Lord that they were not dead.
Took off and flew straight to them, on the open ocean in high seas in 4 minutes. It was a wonderful story and a clear reminder that even when we feel as if we're lost and NO ONE knows where we are....He does!!
Joe
PS - I tell the whole story in my book, "Run to the Roar".
Joe
5-17-16 Tuesday 6:57 AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
WHILE FUELING THE LITTLE DONKEY...OUCH
Because of the complex fuel system in the Little Donkey (14 fuel tanks), I often fuel it myself.
This also can save time, but most importantly, when finished, I know that I know that every tank is absolutely full.
Also, some of those "Bad Boys" (nasty weather) were moving in on Cartegena and could threaten to delay my departure.
While the lineman was writing up my fuel bill, I folded up the ladder and was putting it back on the fuel truck when....
A jagged edge of the ladder caught my left index finger and ripped it open. OUCH!
The staff at Million Air was great. We bathed the wound in Betadine and wrapped it quite tight to stop the bleeding. I was provided with extra band-aids and betadine for my journey to Haiti.
I explained that I knew many doctors who could treat the wound in Haiti. They reluctantly agreed and besides, the storms were bearing down on us. It was time to go.
Now, I fly the Little Donkey over large bodies of water all the time. Along the route to Haiti from the U.S., there are multiple islands along the way. It's nice to have "alternates".
However, this leg between Cartegena and Port-au-Prince is just 500 miles of open ocean without a single island along the way.
With my finger all wrapped up, I had a word of prayer and pushed the throttles open for my next leg to Haiti. BTW, "Orosa" is not an island, it's simply an "intersection" marking Colombian airspace.
The flight went well. Had a little weather to work around over Haiti, cleared the mountains and landed. Whew, glad to have that 500 miles of open ocean behind me.
Stopped in to see my good friend, Ralph, at Haiti Air Ambulance (HAA). When I told him what happened with my finger, he immediately called on the "Resident Doctor" on call at HAA.
The Doc inspected the wound and said that stitches would not be advised on the finger tip. So, he cleaned it again with betadine and wrapped it.
He sent me on my way with plenty of gauze and tape. Urged me to keep it clean and change the bandage often.
Once back at the Village, Barb and I played a couple of rousing games of Yahtzee. Then, she re-bandaged the wounded finger tip.
Had a good nights sleep and am at my "Haiti Desk" this morning.
Have a couple of Air Mobile Rescuers that need attention.Will be setting up another Weather Station at a field that needs weather reporting and a host of other things to do here.
One does not appreciate a "finger tip" until it's injured. It's been difficult blogging without that left pointer finger tip, but I've managed.
The Little Donkey has flown right next to 22,000+ mountains, flown over a LOT of water and jungles. We've been able to bring a lot of folks CLEAN WATER and above all, to share the love of God with those who are hurting.
It's good to be back in Haiti! This has been amazing mission thus far and....it's not over yet! I'm thankful that after all of these movements, have been un-injured until now and it's a small wound and it's getting good care. God is good!!
So, time to get on with this day. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-16-16 Monday 5:09 AM (Colombia Time) - Cartagena, Colombia - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
THE FIRST STEP...A LONG ONE...HOME
All of those "Bad Storms" that had blown up along the route home had diminished. Praise God!! Our Prayer is that they would stay away from the route home. 
We pulled the Little Donkey out of Kevin's Hangar (Arica), did a final top-off and I went through the rather complicated process of checking out of Ecuador.
Once that was all done, did a final pre-flight, had a word of prayer and fired up the engines. The first leg today would be to Cartegena, Colombia for fuel....802 Nautical Miles away, a rather long, "first step home".
As I was taxiing out for take-off, the Controller informed me that I had given him a ride to San Vicente' earlier. When I switched over to the Tower, he too knew of the Little Donkey and the work we had done.
As I pushed the throttles forward, there were tears in my eyes. I had truly fallen in love with this beautiful country and these precious people. Cindy and I will be back!!
The morning was clear and view to my right was spectacular. Though, the "towering Andes" still lay under a cloud cover, just knowing those majestic mountains were there was awesome. BTW, the highest point is 22,838!!!
I still can't get over the "Panel" on the Little Donkey! So many folks have worked to provide this beautiful Avionics Package to us. Yes, I'm extremely THANKFUL!!
Once settled in to my final cruising altitude of 15,500', I made a short YouTube video of the flight.
Now, I'm going to warn you, you can't hear anything I'm saying until the very end. But you get the "Picture" what it's like to fly a noisy little airplane at high altitude over the Colombian Jungle. Thank God for "Noise Cancelling" headphones!!15,500' OVER THE COLOMBIAN JUNGLE IN THE LITTLE DONKEY 
After passing those towering Andes, on final leg of today's 800+ Nautical Mile journey, I saw the huge, "snaking" river below in the middle of the lush tropical jungle. Sure would hate to have to go down in that jungle.
I glanced at my panel and saw that river so clearly depicted on the Garmin 500 and 750. Love these valuable instruments!!The flight to Cartegena was smooth and without incident. Landed, was met by a very courteous ground staff at Million-Air FBO and settled into a wonderful little hotel close to the airport.
Had a delicious Filet Mignon at a Sidewalk Cafe' and life is good. Had a good night's sleep! 
Will be heading to the airport in just a few minutes for my next leg of my journey home. Will be departing Cartegena just ahead of another burst of weather.Time to dash to the airport and get that Little Donkey in the air.
Please pray that the process of departure is smooth and quick. This next leg is over 500 miles of open ocean. No islands in between.
As always, THANK YOU for your precious and truly appreciated prayer, love and support!!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-15-16 Sunday 4:19 AM (Ecuador Time) - Guayaquil, Ecuador - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
A DYING STORM!
A series of powerful storms have been roaring along my route home. No way was I going to fight those storms in the air.
Spent yesterday resting, praying, watching the weather and....being "Jose the Gringo Tourist". Guayaquil is a beautiful city.
This morning, it appears as if those "Bad Boys" are diminishing, or dying (that is my prayer). It's just possible, that today the Little Donkey may begin the "long gallop" home. It's going to take a few days to fly that 2100+ Nautical Miles!
The first leg of this journey is from SEGU (Guayaquil, Ecuador) to SKCG (Cartagena, Columbia). It will be 802 Nautical Miles.
After that first leg to SKCG, things look pretty good (for now) all the way home. However, weather is SUBJECT TO CHANGE!
This morning, I'm up early and again, packing my bags and soon will be heading to the airport. Will do a final "top-off" of all 14 fuel tanks in the Little Donkey and clear customs and immigration.
Hope to be in the air early enough to beat any "afternoon outbreaks"! Please pray I don't encounter any glitches in the "Departure Procedure".
Now Folks, I'll tell you, I'm a "Chicken Pilot" when it comes to weather.
That means that if I see any bad stuff up ahead and I can't get around it, I look for a safe place to land. Even if it means going back a little bit. There are many airports along the route to duck into.
Even when I'm on a "tight schedule", it's not worth it, to fight the weather!! That's nearly 50 years of flying speaking.
This "Mission" to Ecuador has been absolutely amazing! It's been a blessing to work with so many people who have a heart to serve others.
They have helped us in this mission of bringing clean water and hope and the love of God to the people of Ecuador. Tens of thousands have been left homeless and literally lost everything.
It's that time to do the final pack up, fill that thermos with some delicious coffee and head to the airport.
THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support! Thank you for joining me on this wonderful "Adventure of Serving the Lord".
Air Mobile Joe
PS - Throughout this day, if the Lord quickens you to pray for me, PLEASE DO. If the weather holds, I'll be flying all day. Your prayers are powerful and greatly appreciated!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-14-16 Saturday 5:41 AM (Ecuador Time) - Guayaquil, Ecuador - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
UGLY WEATHER!
The best laid plans, oft go astray. So, I thought it was time to wrap up this "mission" and begin the long journey home. Fueled the Little Donkey, topped off the Oxygen, all packed and ready to head to the airport. For the last few days, had been tracking some weather along my projected route and this morning....things got real UGLY!
The purple line is the "projected" route from Guayaquil (SEGU) to my first "Fuel Stop", Cartegena, Columbia (SKCG). Those are some very serious cells with embedded thunderstorms and....they're growing!
BTW, that flight from SEGU to SKCG is 802 Nautical Miles, or a 5+ hour flight. Would hit that bad weather about 3 hours into the flight and the way it's growing, maybe before then.
I considered changing the first fuel stop to Panama City, Panama (MPTO), but that ugly weather is growing and spreading across that route also.
Thus, the old adage...."There are old pilots and there are bold pilots, but there are no 'Old Bold' Pilots"!
So.....looks like I'll spend another day (or two) in this beautiful country. On this mission to Ecuador, every single day has been very busy.
Deploying Rescuers, training videos, organizing distribution, flying supplies & personnel, high-level meetings, etc. etc.
Now, I could think of "worse" places to wait out some bad weather. Ecuador is absolutely beautiful. I'll just hang out around the hotel and spend some "quiet time" in the Word. I'm ready for that!!
I ask you to PLEASE PRAY that this weather will soon pass and that there will be clear skies and even tail winds for long my journey home.
While fueling the Little Donkey yesterday, in preparation (so I thought) for an early morning departure this morning, the Official Letter of Waiver from all Landing & Related Fees was delivered. Kevin, our newest "Water Mule" had arranged that with the Government of Ecuador. That piece of paper is worth a LOT of $$$. THANK YOU, Kevin & Ecuador!
This mission has been extraordinary in so many ways. It has been a pleasure working beside so many Ecuadorians who genuinely care for one another. PRAISE GOD!
Cindy and I look forward to returning here with some more Air Mobile Rescuers. Time to wrap up the blog and go down for breakfast and monitor that "Ugly Weather" and PRAY it soon clears out. As always, THANK YOU for your precious and invaluable prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-13-16 Friday 5:39 AM (Ecuador Time) - Guayaquil, Ecuador - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
GOOD MEETINGS!
It was an honor to meet with the Minister of Transportation & Public Works, Mr. Walter Solis Valarezo, yesterday. This meeting "sparked" another series of meetings that turned out quite well. Praise God!!
During our meeting, was able to THANK the Government of Ecuador for providing FREE FUEL, WAIVING ALL LANDING RELATED FEES and overall, making our relief efforts go very smoothly!
Was also able to show him the Air Mobile Rescuer and report on our deployments into the most affected disaster areas. He was very pleased to hear that.
Was also able to show him the Air Mobile Rescuer and report on our deployments into the most affected disaster areas. He was very pleased to hear that.
I further explained how the Harris Corporation could help get vital Communications back up to "speed".
The Minister then put me in contact with the Airport Personnel at Manta where the Control Tower completely collapsed from the earthquake, destroying vital Communications. An afternoon meeting was set.
BTW, when the earthquake hit, a Controller and a soldier were in the Tower. They both, miraculously SURVIVED!
After the meeting with the Minister Valarezo, I jumped in Ti Burik and made the 35 minute flight to Manta.
Was met by the key Airport Personnel and able to present the Preliminary Proposal prepared by Harris to get their Communications System functioning at "full power". That meeting went extremely well!
While on the ramp, I met the crew of this "Goodwill Puma" that the U.S. had sent on a whirlwind mission throughout South America. It was a pleasure to speak with the American Flight crew.
We then visited the "Temporary Tower" that the U.S. flew into Manta immediately after the earthquake.
The "Tower Controllers" all knew the "Little Donkey" as I had flown through their airspace many times on our flight missions here in Ecuador.
We also visited the Area Control Center and all of the Controllers there also knew the Little Donkey. It was nice to meet the "voices" on the other end.
I then got back into the Little Donkey and flew back to Guayaquil. BTW, the red and white tower behind Ti Burik is where the Control tower once stood.
It was a GOOD DAY! Again, I'm so THANKFUL to our Lord for opening so many doors for us. It appears we have much work to do in Ecuador and we're looking forward to it!!!
Cindy and I speak every day, and sometimes, multiple times. She's excited about returning to Ecuador with me. When we deliver those additional Air Mobile Rescuers that were funded by Aldo, she just may be with me!!
After this whirlwind day, went back to the hotel. Had a nice dinner and went to sleep early. As I say every day and mean with all of my heart, THANK YOU!! Your precious prayer, love and support are vital to this ministry!! God bless!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-12-16 Thursday 5:44 AM (Ecuador Time) - Guayaquil, Ecuador - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
SINCE I'M HERE....
Yesterday, I told you about Aldo, an Ecuadorian businessman, pilot and philanthropist who is funding 4 more Rescuers to go into a devastated region. Last night, we had dinner together and what sweet fellowship we had!
THANKS to CBN (Christian Broadcasting Network) and other generous donors, we will soon have 25 Air Mobile Rescuers in place providing thousands with clean water!!
For now, our mission to bring clean water to devastated areas of Ecuador following the terrible earthquake is approaching an end (for now). We have, with God's Awesome help and your prayers and generosity been able to help those in distress and...
We've been able to establish a good system of training, maintenance and follow-up for the operators of the Air Mobile Rescuer.
Again, THANKS to the talented CBN Crew, we're making a Spanish / English Training video for the set-up, operation and maintenance of the Air Mobile Rescuer.
BTW, it's very comforting to know that we have a FIRST-CLASS maintenance facility here with Arica Aviation when we fly the Little Donkey here. PRAISE GOD!
So much has been accomplished here in Ecuador. We've also met some wonderful folks who are helping us to carry on, long after we leave!
This morning, a meeting has been set with the Minister of Transportation to explain what we have been able to accomplish here with the help of so many.
You may recall, the Government of Ecuador, through "Hangar 7" and Kevin, provided FREE FUEL for all 34 missions that we were able to fly in country (worth thousands of $$$)!
We also found out yesterday, that ALL Landing, parking and navigation fees have been WAIVED! This also would have been thousands of $$$!
We'll also be discussing the need for Air Traffic Control (ATC) Communications in Manta and other areas of Ecuador that have been impacted by the powerful earthquake that rocked this country.
The company, that I have the privilege to represent (Harris) is already preparing proposals to help get vital (ATC) communications re-established in Ecuador. I humbly believe our Lord is opening these doors!!
Above all, we have been able to share the Love of God with these precious people and they with us! We have been overwhelmed by the generosity and love here in Ecuador. What a joy to work beside these precious people!!
So, for the next few days, I'll be in various meetings here in Ecuador endeavoring to find out exactly how we can help with multiple critical communication needs. I LOVE MY JOB!
In reflecting on how our Lord has been with us and opened so many doors, all I can say is: THANK YOU, LORD!
I'm so appreciative to you for coming along on this grand adventure in the Lord. THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-11-16 Wednesday 5:57 AM (Ecuador Time) - Guayaquil, Ecuador - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
INTENSE TRAINING TO KEEP CLEAN WATER FLOWING & A SURPRISE GIFT IN ECUADOR!!
Any time Air Mobile places Rescuers in the "field", a major effort is made to train others to maintain and keep these invaluable machines producing clean water.
We have found a treasure in Ecuador in Xavier (Kevin). He is a pilot, businessman, industrial engineer and....has a heart to bring clean water where it is most needed in Ecuador. He is an answer to PRAYER!
Brian (CBN) and I spent the entire day setting up the maintenance and training system with Kevin.
One idea that came forth from Kevin is keeping a "Rescuer Log Book". By doing this, one can record usage, location and add comments. This is very similar to what a pilot does with his flight log book. What a great idea!!
Brian and Kevin worked on creating an Ecuador Data Base where all of the Rescuers have been placed. This will allow Kevin to track the units and follow-up with the operators to keep that clean water flowing!!
Right in the middle of our training, a friend of Kevin and local pilot and philanthropist, walked in and announced that he would like to fund 4 more Rescuers (to be placed in devastated areas) for Ecuador! THANK YOU ALDO!!!
WOW! What a day! We continued our training and Kevin worked through several complicated "Trouble-shooting" lessons on the Rescuer. Surely....."Our Lord knows how to deploy His troops!!!"
In reflecting on how we met Kevin, again, I never cease to marvel at how our Lord works in our lives.
You may recall, that when we landed in Ecuador 3 weeks ago, the Little Donkey had a flat tire. Through a long and frustrating wait to get the tire repaired, we met Kevin. Yes, I THANK GOD for that flat tire.
I am reminded of Romans 8:28...."And we know that all things work together for the good..."
I would also like to say a huge THANK YOU to CBN (Christian Broadcasting Network) for funding the Rescuers and for sending Brian to help in this noble effort.
So, today, the "Adventure" continues. Kevin has arranged a meeting with the FAA of Ecuador and we'll be discussing how the Harris Corporation can possibly help to put in all new Communications into Manta where the Control Tower was completely destroyed by the earthquake.
Please PRAY with us that our Lord has HIS way in this matter. As I say every day and mean with all of my heart, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-10-16 Tuesday 7:29 AM (Ecuador Time) - Guayaquil, Ecuador - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
"BUTTON UP" THE LITTLE DONKEY - CHECKING ON SERIOUS COMM DAMAGE...A "MISSION WITHIN A MISSION"
After conducting a thorough field inspection it was time to "button up" the sweet little bird. She passed the inspection with flying colors.
I'm THANKFUL to the Arica Maintenance Facility for allowing me to work beside their excellent mechanics.
The crew showed me the bolt that had been replaced and again, am very THANKFUL for a competent maintenance crew that found this during the inspection.
While awaiting the completion of putting the Little Donkey back together, Monica, Xavier's (aka: Kevin) wife, showed me more of the "hot spots" and gave me excellent insight into Ecuador and it's rich history.
When lunch time rolled around, Monica and Kevin invited Brian and I to lunch at their lovely home. Now, this is the way to do it. We all turned off our cell phones and sat and enjoyed a quiet peaceful meal.
The food was delicious and fellowship was even sweeter. Monica and Kevin shared their story of how they met at the tender age of 14 and were dear friends until 24 when they realized how perfect they were for each other. What a beautiful love story!!
BTW, Kevin and Arica will play a vital role in keeping the Air Mobile Rescuers in tip-top operation. We're setting him up with full parts and thorough training.
His multiple aircraft (rotor and fixed wing) will provide an infrastructure that will allow FULL SUPPORT of the Air Mobile Rescuers in Ecuador. Surely, our Lord directed us to Kevin....because of that FLAT TIRE!!
As we begin to "wrap" up our current mission in Ecuador, we've been analyzing the weather enroute. We will fly along the coast by Columbia and then route to Cartegena and then to Port-Au-Prince. Things are "heating up" along that route and we're keeping a very close eye on it.
Now, in the last 72 hours, a MISSION WITHIN A MISSION is developing! The Control Tower at Manta, Ecuador was completely destroyed during the catastrophic earthquake. Fortunately, there was no loss of life, but one Air Traffic Controller was injured.
The fact that I represent the Harris Corporation and am "on the ground" here in Ecuador, is providential. Today, we will be in meeting with the leaders of the Ecuadoran FAA. Harris is a wonderful company & well able to help Ecuador get back on it's feet. PLEASE PRAY that our Lord has His way!!
We'll also be giving Kevin and his crew "Advanced Training" on the Air Mobile Rescuer. We hope to have critical meetings that could help to replace the damaged ATC equipment. We PRAY for our Lord's direction and we're ever THANKFUL to you for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-9-16 Monday 6:28 AM (Ecuador Time) - Guayaquil, Ecuador - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
NO FLY / SHOP / REST
Our CBN Film Producer, Emilio showed up at the hotel (early yesterday morning) after having ridden a bus all night from the northern end of Ecuador. He was tired and just glad to be back in the land of warm showers and abundant food.
What that meant was....I didn't need to fly. Now, Mother's Day is a huge deal in Ecuador. Our small hotel restaurant was completely transformed into this mega buffet.
There were kids and mothers and celebrating families in every nook and cranny of the place. It was a wonderful, colorful day of celebrating Moms.
And...it meant that we had the "day off". After a monster buffet of delicious delicacies, there was no problem taking a nice afternoon nap.
Emilio had met a young doctor on the bus ride home and they offered to take me shopping at the local Craft store. There were hundreds of shop keepers contained in this one big building. It didn't take long to find some very cool "Ecuador" gifts.
After getting what I wanted, we waited for our cab to bring us back to the hotel. While waiting, one local shop keeper invited us to wait in her shop and she gave us gifts of genuine Ecuador chocolate (that is considered the best in the world).
As she found out more of what were doing, she presented me with a beautiful Ecuador pin. 
These folks are so warm and sweet. It's easy to fall in love with this country and these precious people!After the massive buffet lunch, no need for dinner. Brian and I spent some time in the Word of God and discussing various areas of theology.
What a nice way to spend a Sunday (even though being away from family) in Ecuador.
We're up early this morning and about to head to the airport. We have some extremely important logistical meetings that could significantly effect (in a very positive way), our future operations here in Ecuador. Can't give any details at this time, but we ask you to PRAY that all go well today!!
So, as I end this ever rambling blog every day, THANK YOU for your precious and truly appreciated prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-8-16 Sunday 5:59 AM (Ecuador Time) - Guayaquil, Ecuador - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
HAPPY MOTHERS DAY....FROM ECUADOR
Did you know that Ecuador is one of the largest exporters of flowers in the world? Chances are, if you gave flowers to your wife or mother, they may have been grown right here in Ecuador.
At any rate, no matter where the flowers came from, MOTHERS ARE GREAT! And today, we honor them.
My Cindy will be going to Church this morning and then going to the Hospital in Orlando and coordinating 3 separate services. Cindy is my precious "Lady of God" and I'm eternally grateful to our Lord for her. Happy Mothers Day Cindy!!
Yesterday, we took a break from flying and "opened" up the Little Donkey for a field inspection. 
Xavier, the owner of Arica Aviation has a group of first-class aircraft mechanics and I took advantage of his wonderful facility to "take a look under the cowlings".
Over the last few weeks, I've observed the Arica Aviation facility in operation. They operate helicopters and fixed wing aircraft. Their mechanics are GOOD! It was a pleasure working along side them doing the inspection.
We inspected the top and the bottom and found just a few minor things that needed adjustment and correction. That's what aircraft inspections are all about!!
Finally, we inspected the rear engine and did find a bolt that needed to be replaced. PRAISE GOD for good mechanics and regular inspections!!
We hope to put the cowlings on today and make another flight to San Vicente' to pick up Emilio, the CBN film maker and reporter. Emilio has been very deep into the earthquake "ground zero".
You may recall, on Friday, we sent an Air Mobile Rescuer into that area and Emilio accompanied the Pastor on the 4 hour drive up north.
So, if all goes well on this Mother's Day, we'll be flying again bringing the love of God and hope to folks who have been devastated.
Praise God for His grace and strength to do this. It is a joy being a "Co-Laborer" with Christ!!
As I say every single day and mean with all of my heart, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-7-16 Saturday 5:59 AM (Ecuador Time) - Guayaquil, Ecuador - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A MISSIONARY PILOT
Our mission yesterday was to deliver another load of critical supplies and deliver another Air Mobile Rescuer and train the operator at San Vicente. Thought I'd take you along for the ride.
I had the very talented, Emilio from CBN with me, and he shot a few clips to "capture" what a typical "Missionary Pilot Mission" looked like. So, here you go..."A Day in the Life of a Missionary Pilot".
Had a smooth and uneventful flight from Guayaquil to San Vicente. Another good landing (thank God) on the rather rough airfield with the 2000' displaced threshold. LANDING SAN VICENTE'
After landing, unload critical supplies from the cabin. Had a team awaiting this load. JOE UNLOADING CABIN & EXPLAINING MISSION
Then, unloaded the cargo pod on the Little Donkey. Had a nice load of general supplies that would be taken to very needy people deeply affected by the 7.8 Quake. UNLOADING CARGO POD - LITTLE DONKEY CARRIES A LOAD
And then, the "gold" on-board, the Air Mobile Rescuer. I'm holding 160,000 pounds of CLEAN WATER in this one little Gold Box (even though it is yellow)! Praise God!! JOE EXPLAINING THE TREASURE 
We trained a Pastor from the north end of Ecuador, where the damage from the 7.8 quake was the greatest. This is one of my greatest joys, giving the gift of clean water!!
After the transfer of cargo and the training and presentation of the Air Mobile Rescuer, gave 2 passengers a ride back. The young lady in the co-pilot seat just lost her grand-father and needed to get home. Glad we could help.
Upon arrival back at Guayaquil, was met by Brian and we planned our next outreach. What a great day in the Lord and a wonderful opportunity to serve Him!
In reflecting on this "Day in the life..." If we would have driven to San Vicente' and back, this would have been a grueling 2 day journey. With the Little Donkey, we knocked the entire mission in just over 3 hours! Praise God for these precious tools!!
As always, THANK YOU for your invaluable and truly appreciated prayer, love and support! Hope you enjoyed the "ride"!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-6-16 Friday 5:39 AM (Ecuador Time) - Guayaquil, Ecuador - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
SPANISH / ENGLISH TRAINING VIDEO....AT LAST!
When one has such talent in hand, it is wise to utilize it! The CBN Crew (Extremely talented!!) offered to make a Spanish / English Training film for the Air Mobile Rescuer.
I quickly accepted the gracious offer and yesterday was the day we "shot it"! PRAISE GOD!!
Xavier (AKA: Kevin), the owner of Arica Aviation, graciously allowed us to use his hangar for the creation of this wonderful tool. Here's a brief clip of the "Training Action" - CBN "SHOOT" AIR MOBILE TRAINING VIDEO
We have, indeed, found the perfect base to launch all of our Ecuador Flight Operations with Xavier and Arica Aviation. Our Lord certainly put this one together!!
After a long "Shoot" our team headed back to the hotel and I went straight up and took a long, and much needed, 3 hour nap. Our Team has been running pretty much "wide-open" since we landed here in Ecuador 2 weeks ago.
Right after dinner, we were back at the "Map" and planning our next move. Looks like I'll be flying again today and delivering another Rescuer and training another team. Can hardly wait for the new "Training Video" to be complete. We'll put it on a "Thumb Drive" and include it in the Air Mobile Rescuer Kit. What a blessing!!
So, it's time to head down and get some of that good Ecuadoran Cafe' Con-Leche' and then to the airport and then....wherever our Lord wants us to go!
As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-5-16 Thursday 5:49 AM (Ecuador Time) - Guayaquil, Ecuador - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
LONG TERM "CLEAN WATER" & A FLAT TIRE!!
I never cease to marvel at how our Lord puts things together. I so well recall how when we landed here in Ecuador 2 weeks ago, the Little Donkey had a flat tire. Now, rarely do I enjoy having a flat but.....In this case, that flat tire brought us to Hangar 7, Arica and Xavier who has arranged for FREE FUEL & SO MUCH MORE!
Yesterday, we were engaged in extensive meetings that are laying the foundation for a "Long-Term" Program to provide fresh clean water into, not only to the earthquake affected zones, but into many isolated and hard to reach areas of Ecuador!Back to that "Flat Tire" for a moment. You may recall, when we arrived and had that flat, we had a difficult time even getting out to the cargo ramp to do the repair.
Then, the tube, which is quite rare, was located right on the field. Then, we got the tire repaired for less money than just the cost of the tube and then....we were introduced to Xavier. THANK GOD for that flat tire!!
From following this "rambling" blog, you can see that we've flown nearly every day. We now have 13 Air Mobile Rescuers located in strategic areas that desperately need clean water and literally thousands of pounds of relief have been delivered with the Little Donkey! Critical personnel have been shuttled to ground zero.
The LOVE of GOD is being shared through this precious gift of clean water!
Working with CBN has been a JOY! Having talented and caring co-workers have made this difficult job so much easier.
Here's a quick video that Emilio and Team put together on one of our recent deployments - CBN & AIR MOBILE BRING CLEAN WATER TO THE THIRSTY
After strategic planning meetings with Xavier, Emilio and I took a full load of supplies back to San Vicente', our northern "Staging Area". We rolled several of these yellow carts out to the Little Donkey.
Packing 600 pounds of supplies into a little airplane takes a while. We completely filled the cargo pod.
Then, we carefully packed the precious supplies into the cabin until it was full. Each sack was weighed and I distributed the load evenly.
Emilio and I made the quick 45 minute flight San Vicente'. Had to dodge a few build ups and stay clear of the mountains below.
Upon landing, we received assistance from another local flight crew who helped us unload the supplies. I so appreciate the camaraderie among pilots.
These supplies will likely go by helicopter into isolated areas where people are in such need. So many have lost everything!
Yesterday evening, Xavier invited us to dinner at a friend's beautiful home on Guayaquil. The common thread among us all is our love for flying.
Now, focusing that love into helping others is going to greatly assist our plans to have "Long-Term" clean water support. The foundation is being laid!!
Today, we hope to do series of training films in Spanish. This has long been a desire of mine and having this amazing CBN Crew is just the way to do it.
Now, I'd like to share something very special with you. My precious Cindy and I communicate every day. Can't begin to tell you what it means to have a wonderful wife who totally supports me in the field. I'm so THANKFUL to the Lord for giving me this awesome lady of God!!! I LOVE YOU, CINDY!!
So, it's time to head down to breakfast and into this beautiful day that our Lord has made. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-4-16 Wednesday 5:44 AM (Ecuador Time) - Guayaquil, Ecuador - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
TRAINING MISSION - ANOTHER RESCUER IN PLACE & A SMOOTH LANDING
Joe Prussel trained Andreas from CBN on how to deploy the Air Mobile Rescuer several days ago. Yesterday, our Mission was to deploy another Rescuer in a hard hit area and Andreas would do the training and I'd observe.
We took off of Guayaquil and had another good flight to San Vicente'. Each time we do this, we realize that we are saving valuable time. The flight is a short 45 minutes. The road trip, a long 5+ hour drive. Thank God for the Little Donkey.Just a bit about landing at San Vicente'. First of all, the airstrip had been closed for years and only re-opened due to the terrible earthquake.
The strip is in pretty bad shape and has a 2000' displaced threshold, which means that each landing to the north, the pilot must touch down at the mid-point of the strip or "land long".
Now, in this little video, and Andreas held the camera correctly, I do the landing. It was fairly smooth. Just wanted you to experience what it is like landing at San Vicente'- JOE LANDS "LONG" AT SAN VICENTE' 
After landing, we met Emelio, the CBN Producer from Guatemala. He is an extremely gifted film maker and producer. He would document this mission.We hit the road and headed to our first location, Vicente' Manabi a farming community near San Vicente'.
It was a pleasure watching Andreas explain the operation of the Rescuer. Joe Prussel did a great job of training him. 
It was a further joy to present the Air Mobile Rescuer to this community. The operators are all farmers and very experienced in working with technology and will do a great job of bringing clean water to their community.
From Vicente' Manabi, we then drove deeper into the mountains to the little village of Rosa Blanca. Earlier, Joe Prussel and Andreas had trained the leaders on the operation of the Rescuer.
Emilio needed to do a follow up interview. As we arrived, the Rescuer was all set up and ready. The operators very competently demonstrated their ability run the Rescuer. Again, what a joy watching this!
We then worked our way back to the airport. The roads are quite dangerous, in that, around every corner there could be cracks in the road. We saw many!
We had a good driver. Here's a brief clip of navigating around those cracks - DRIVING FROM SANTA ROSA TO SAN VICENTE'
Upon arrival at the San Vicente' airport, I was pleasantly surprised to see a military helicopter on the ramp actually loading some of the supplies that the Little Donkey had brought in yesterday. What a blessing!!
Yesterday, I had promised 2 Air Traffic Controllers a lift back to Guayaquil. They were at the airport waiting for us.
Mrs. Lopez, sitting in the co-pilot seat, helped me to communicate with ATC at Manta and Guayaquil approach. It's a good thing to help the local Controllers to move around the country!!
Upon arrival back in Guayaquil, had a good de-brief with Brian and then....got my haircut. It was a good day!!
About to head downstairs for breakfast and have a planning meeting with Brian and CBN team to see what our Lord will have us to do today.
As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-3-16 Tuesday 5:49 AM (Ecuador Time) - Guayaquil, Ecuador - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
MADE THE NEWS - AMAZING CONTACTS - STRATEGIC DEPLOYMENTS OF CLEAN WATER!!
Our whole team was pleasantly surprised to see the "Gran Guayaquil" news story on the combined efforts of CBN and Air Mobile Ministries bringing clean water to desperate areas of Ecuador.Here's the link to the actual story with several interviews including a training. NOTE: It is all in Spanish - GRAN GUAYAQUIL NEWS STORY ON CBN / AIR MOBILE MINISTRIES IN ECUADOR
There are multiple open doors before us and we're truly praying for our Lord to direct us to where to go and when to go there. We are so THANKFUL for the amazing favor that our Lord has given us here in Ecuador!!
Joe Prussel even has contacts right in the President of Ecuador's Office and we're pursuing those that we might be able to strategically place the Air Mobile Rescuers where they are most needed.
Yes, "SURELY OUR LORD KNOWS HOW TO DEPLOY HIS TROOPS"!!
Yesterday morning, Dave departed on a flight back to the U.S. PLEASE PRAY for Dave, as, due to a very short layover, he was unable to catch his scheduled flight. He's been delayed in Bogota and has important business to attend to in the U.S. He's hoping to get on a flight this morning.
Xavier & crew, with Arica Aviation, sorted a good load of supplies and relief for San Vicente'. They have done an excellent job of keeping the "Supply Chain" going with much needed supplies for the earthquake victims.
As a steady stream of private aircraft have been carrying these supplies to the hardest hit areas and Xavier has been at the heart of these efforts. He's also arranged for every relief plane to get FREE FUEL.
The Little Donkey received several carts like this filled with goods and I took off from Guayaquil for San Vicente' with over 500 pounds of supplies.
Upon landing, a team was right there to transfer those supplies to trucks to get them needy families who have lost everything. The depth and scope of the powerful earthquake is staggering!
And there, waiting for me to arrive was the CBN / Air Mobile team needing to get back to Guayaquil. The Little Donkey would have a full load back.I was pleasantly surprised at how well Ti Burik took to the air with every seat filled and the cargo pod full. In about 1500' we lifted off and made the 45 minute flight back to Guayaquil beautifully. What a wonderful aircraft our Lord has provided!
Upon landing at Guayaquil, our team rested for a bit in the Arica office and then we went into strategic planning meetings with Xavier. Joe Prussel would be catching an afternoon flight back to the U.S. by way of Bogota. That is where Dave is stuck. He found Dave and they had dinner last night in Bogota.
Just moments ago, I got a text from Dave. He got on the flight back home. So, that prayer was answered as I was typing this blog. THANK YOU, JESUS!
Again, we're THANKFUL to Xavier for his invaluable input in this effort. Dave, Alejandro and I spent the afternoon in downloading information on our efforts and discussing the best way to proceed with the balance of the Air Mobile Rescuers. We also discussed funding (through CBN) and placing critical supplies where most needed. Here's a brief clip of that meeting - ECUADOR PLANNING MEETING
So, today, looks like we'll give the Little Donkey a break from flying (maybe) and Brian and I will be in more meetings on strategic deployments. May our Lord have His way in our efforts!!
As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-2-16 Monday 6:08 AM (Ecuador Time) - Guayaquil, Ecuador - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
BACK TO SAN VICENTE' - DAVE'S SMOOTH LANDING & STRATEGIC MEETINGS
Up early and lifted off for San Vicente' right on schedule yesterday morning. Dave was flying this leg and I happened to capture his super smooth landing but....
The camera was held sideways and I can't figure out how to turn it so....here's the video -DAVE'S SMOOTH LANDING...FILMED SIDEWAYS
After arrival at San Vicente', we fueled the Little Donkey, again with the FREE FUEL provided by the Ecuador Government and the efforts of Xavier.
We were met by Luis and Jose' from Kahre Outreach. Luis explained how his teams were going out to "Hot Spots" and providing clean water into large blue containers.
In this way, they can reach many extremely hard hit areas with the 2 Air Mobile Rescuers. The plan is working beautifully, Praise God!!
One of our CBN Team members, Javier, who was up in Pedernales with Brian & Joe has to catch a flight out of Guayaquil today, so he was enroute to the San Vicente to fly back with us.
So....Dave and I went to our favorite spot, the little cafe' on the beach and had a nice cup of cafe' con leche.
We had some easy time to just share our testimonies while awaiting Javier. Even though Dave and I have known each other for 34 years, we'd never shared how we got saved. It was a great time of fellowship!
Javier arrived about an hour later, just as we were wrapping up our stories of "Amazing Grace"!!
We walked back across the street to the San Vicente' airport and met a Canadian, James Simpson.
James was on a "Mission" to Ecuador to bring clean water. He was distributing, at no charge, a filter that did a good job but...required replacement filters often.
I was able to show him the Air Mobile Rescuer. He was quite interested in the fact that the Rescuer can provide up to 10,000 gallons before filter replacement. This was another strategic meeting!!
As is often case, there were passengers at the airport that really needed a ride, so we loaded them up, along with Javier, and made the quick flight back to Guayaquil.
The Little Donkey has been an awesome blessing to many on this mission. Again, I'm just THANKFUL to the Lord and to my dear brother, Bill, who donated this remarkable tool to Air Mobile 6 years ago!
So, today, Dave, my great Co-pilot will be flying back to the U.S. on Avianca. Sure going to miss him. He's been a huge blessing by assisting in the flying on this mission.
I will then fly the Little Donkey back to San Vicente' to pick Brian, Joe and company to bring them back to Guayaquil. Joe Prussel has an afternoon flight back to the U.S. Will sure miss Joe, he's a GREAT WATER MULE!
They have been deep into the disaster areas and ground zero bringing clean water to thirsty people and sharing the love of God with those who are suffering.
Again, can't begin to tell you what a blessing it is just to be here and able to do this. I'm so THANKFUL for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-1-16 Sunday 6:08 AM (Ecuador Time) - Guayaquil, Ecuador - Air Mobile Relief Mission - Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
HURRY UP & WAIT
It was a day of flying and sitting on a beach waiting for our other team to arrive. Brian & Joe and the rest of the CBN Team had gone by road to Porto Viego and Manta, areas hard hit by the earthquake.
We set the rendezvous of San Vicente. It was there that Dave and I waited....sipping Cafe' Con Leche's.
We began the day by going to the airport and getting a nice load of critical medical supplies from Xavier at Hangar 7 (where relief supplies are dispatched) at Guayaquil International Airport.
I "caught" Dave on the side of the little Donkey as he was loading the medical supplies.
One of the things that we pilots notice are classic aircraft. As we were taxiing for take-off, we were behind an old Boeing 727. Many airlines flew this great bird, but today, there are only a handful of them. 
Just after taking off, and turning to the north toward San Vicente, you can see the "Towering Andes" just to our East.
Had a smooth flight and landed at San Vicente.
We began lining up the passengers who would return to Guayaquil later that afternoon. The meds were brought to the Kahre Outreach where Luis volunteers.
While on the ramp, we noted a large Russian built helicopter about to lift off. I've flown on these very types of heavy-lift choppers in Indonesia.
Dave had a few comments as this grand old chopper was lifting off - DAVE'S COMMENTARY AS MI-8 LIFTS OFF
Was in touch with Brian and Joe via text messaging. They were about 2 hours out by road. So, Dave and I wandered across the street to the beach where a small cafe' (that was still in operation) had a bustling business.
It was nice to just sit there and relax....sipping Cafe' Con Leche's.
Then Brian and Joe and Company arrived and the plan was set. They would proceed by road on to Jama and Perdenales with 4 Air Mobile Rescuers and other vital supplies.
Dave and I would fly back to Guayaquil with what ever passengers needed a free lift.
We would then get more Air Mobile Rescuers and meet the ground team back in San Vicente today and re-supply them.
We took off with 2 passengers and again, dodged the afternoon thunderstorms.
It is a blessing to be able to give folks a free lift. So many in this area have lost everything and they just need all the help they can get. Glad the Little Donkey can accommodate.
As we flew back south to Guayaquil for the short 45 minute ride, our Garmin 750 graphically depicted the towering Andes on our left. Note that we are just west of Quito whose landing elevation is over 8000 feet!Had a nice, smooth flight back and then a restful evening. BTW, the food here is excellent. Last night, had sea bass. Oh, these folks know how to cook!
Time for breakfast and then back to San Vicente to meet Brian, Joe and Team. The "Adventure" continues!
As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
