Bodega Update

Summer Music Fest 2011

2011-07-31T17:48:00.002-04:00

Grey Wolf Campground (home of the infamous Devil’s Triangle Motorcycle Rally) hosted a music festival the last weekend in July. I only found out about it the week before. It wasn’t a bike rally, but I like good music, and I like Odie & Starr, and I wanted to show my support, so I decided ride out for a few hours on Saturday.

The sun was shining when I left Knoxville, but by the time I arrived I was riding through a light but steady rainfall. Many of the campers and some of the bands had already packed up and moved out, but a few diehards were still braving the rain and mud.

As soon as I got off my Bonnie I heard someone call out, “Hey preacher!” I turned to see one of the regulars at Grey Wolf riding up on a four-wheeler. “Are you going to do a service for us in the morning?” I hadn’t planned on it but, “Sure. If ya‘ll want me too.” As I strolled along the line of tents I got the same question from others. It’s good to be wanted and welcome. I was glad I came.

“You should have been here yesterday. The weather was great and we had a lot of great bands on stage.” I wish I had been. The rain was causing problems with the lights and electronics and the stage was silent, but the rain stopped about 9:30 PM and by 10:00 PM the bands were getting ready to rock. The first band up was a Heavy Metal group. I hung around a while longer, but I hadn’t planned on camping, so I saddled up and headed for home.

On Sunday morning the sun came out. I arrived back at Grey Wolf around 9:30 AM. I’ve been coming to Grey Wolf for a few years now, and it’s become a kind of tradition at the Bike Rallies that I take the stage on Sunday morning to offer a hymn and a prayer to close out the event. Keep in mind that this is not a “church group.” Many I’m sure were hung over, and some were still drinking, but as I sang a small group of folks moved towards the stage, and as I prayed I looked out to see that some folks had their heads bowed; not all mind you, but some. As I left the stage and walked among the campsites I received many hand shakes, thanks, and words of appreciation.

What a privilege it is to wear the CMA patch! It identifies us as men and women of God, but at the same time it opens doors that might otherwise be closed to “church people.” It allows us to go to places like Grey Wolf Campground and mix with folks who ordinarily may not want to be caught dead in a Church building, but because of the patch, and the love in our hearts, we are often welcomed. I wonder how long it’s been since some of these folks listened to someone sing about the “Amazing Grace” of God, or how long it’s been since they allowed someone to pray for them. I wonder how long it will be before the next person shows them the Love of Jesus.

What a responsibility it is to wear the CMA patch! Who will go to these places and seek out these people if not us? Who will pray for them if not us? Who will share the Grace of God through a simple hymn if not us? The next event at Grey Wolf is the Devil’s Triangle Bike Rally, Sept 16-17-18 2011. Are you up to it? If not you, then who?

You can learn more about Grey Wolf Campground, the Summer Music Fest, and the CMA at:

greywolfcampground.net

summermusicfest.tripod.com

cmatn-knoxville.org

Update

2011-06-22T12:37:00.003-04:00

I'm back on high speed internet. I could not log into blogger for a while, but I've got it fixed now.

I hope to report soon that another container has left our 'bodega' for Guatemala, but it will be a few weeks yet. I still have a lot of space to fill.

Pray for me.

Dial-Up Blues

2011-06-07T15:55:00.001-04:00

Can't connect to Wi-Fi, can't find the reason why, so I got them dirty
rotten low-down back on dial-up blues.

2011-03-31T10:11:00.002-04:00

On Feb. 24 we shipped Vine container #116. It pulled away from our dock at 3:PM on it's way to the Gulf. It arrived at our "bodega" in Guatemala the second week of March.

My thanks to all who support Vine International. You make this ministry possible.

Shipping News

2010-10-28T13:11:00.005-04:00

Our October shipment (VC-106)of medical supplies has cleared customs in Guatemala and is on it's way to our 'bodega'. We still have a container of prenatal vitamins in port that is awaiting clearance.

Shipping

2010-10-11T17:11:00.000-04:00

Vine Container #106 is on it's way.

Shipment

2010-09-27T14:58:00.000-04:00

Our next shipping date is up in the air right now. It may be this Thursday or it may be next week.

It's not my fault [this time]. There's a new customs agent at Puerto Barrios that doesn't seem to like us. After dealing with a mountain of red tape, our last two containers took way too long to clear customs, which resulted in extra Container Demurrage fees. We're going to try importing our next container through another port, which means canceling our Dole container & using another carrier. Freight charges will be more, but the extra cost will be offset if we don't have to pay a lot of demurrage.

Please pray for a container of wheelchairs for Joni & Friends that arrived at Puerto Barrios last week, that customs will release it much faster than the last two & with far less red tape.

Bruce White
Vine International, P.O. Box 52086, Knoxville TN 37950
www.vineinternational.org
www.bodegaupdate.blogspot.com

Best Ad

2010-08-26T12:04:00.001-04:00

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=1450017784212

Born Again American

2010-08-04T12:09:00.000-04:00

Born Again American

Water

2010-08-04T11:28:00.001-04:00

Manuela said, "Thank God and your friend's (that you who give to Vine International and our new Visita Casa Project) for the water that is coming to my house."

Read all about this project at http://dennis51.wordpress.com/

Great Site

2010-07-20T17:56:00.000-04:00

Shipping News

2010-07-15T13:23:00.001-04:00

Vine just passed a major milestone. On July 15, 2010 we shipped container number one hundred and one. This year we've shipped three containers of medical supplies & equipment from our Collection Center in Tennessee to our 'bodega' in Guatemala, and we hope to ship two more before Thanksgiving.

We also continue to import containers shipped directly from various partner ministries around the U.S. and in Canada, which helped greatly in reaching the “one hundred and one” mark. These supplies and equipment go to missionaries working in Central America to help them share the love of Christ to the lost and hurting.

I would like to thank you all for your prayers and support. Without you this ministry could not be possible.

Blessings, Bodega Bruce

Update

2010-07-06T10:38:00.004-04:00

Okay, so I've not updated this blog in six months. Here's a quick overview.

We've shipped two containers of medical supplies & equipment to our 'bodega' in Guatemala so far this year, and we hope to ship two more before the end of summer. This does not include various containers that we've imported that were shipped directly from other ministries around the U.S. and Canada.

We were able to get some aid into Haiti directly from our Guatemala 'bodega'.

Woody and Dr. Bruce made a trip to Guatemala to make 'house calls'. You can read more about that at dennis51.wordpress.com.

More later. Thank you all for your prayers and support.

Bruce

Shipping News

2010-01-29T11:38:00.002-05:00

Our ship date has been changed to February 11. We are waiting on some medical equipment for Hospital Shalom, Peten. Hopefully it will be here before then, but if not we may have to delay again.

Woody is still working on getting supplies from our "bodega" in Guatemala to relief workers in Haiti. Please pray for that effort.

Shipping News

2010-01-22T12:59:00.004-05:00

In November 2009 we shipped out last container of the year. I am now working on a load which will ship the first week in February 2010.

The disaster in Haiti is heavy on our hearts, and we are looking at ways of sending supplies from our 'bodega' in Guatemala. So far we have been able to provide some medical supplies to Knoxville area ministries who are sending teams of doctors into Haiti, namely Remote Area Medical and Frontlines Global Missions.

Please pray for the people of Haiti and all those who are extending the hand of love and comfort to them.

Vine International - Report on 2009

2010-01-22T12:52:00.003-05:00

Wow, what a year. Every time I think we're reaching a saturation point in Guatemala, God just seems to laugh & say, "Okay...watch this!" Given that Guatemala is the size of Tennessee, it's amazing that Vine supports over 100 projects at various levels. This year, that number has grown, but it's only the tip of the iceberg. Through this decade, we've averaged about 8 containers - & $3 million in value-of-aid per year. Well...in 2009 - we've shipped 18 containers & quadrupled the values. A friend asked a logical question - "So...your financial donations have increased?" Well, not really. My only answer is it's God's economy. A key to the number of containers is an increase in wheelchairs in partnership with Joni & Friends (US) & Bethel Ministries (Guatemala). A key in the value-of-aid is a new level of partnership with MAP Int'l - providing a greater volume of medicines. Obviously, a box of antibiotics carries a greater value than a box of bandages. Both are needed, but one simply has greater dollar value. Translate that into multiple 40-foot containers & it becomes significant. But that's only part of the picture.

Along with MAP & JAF, much thanks to other resource partners - Samaritan's Purse, Crosslink Int'l, IFAME, Equipping the Saints, CHOSEN, Refuge Int'l, Hope Haven-Canada, Wheels of Hope, & an array of medical-related entities. Many containers are shipped directly from other facilities & neverpass through Knoxville. Smaller loads are brought to our warehouse here, where our Collection Center Manager & road-warrior, Bruce White, sorts & preps them into quarterly container loads. Did I mention efficient? Did I mention God's economy? I still stand amazed. I hope you are, too.

Woody Woodson

New Look

2009-09-15T09:28:00.002-04:00

Our Vine International website has a new look. Check it out at www.vineinternational.org

Shipping News

2009-06-05T11:21:00.002-04:00

The trucking company moved the pick-up date back to June 5, making it easier for me to finish this load on time.

At 10AM this morning a forty-foot ocean container pulled away from our dock loaded with medical supplies and equipment for missionaries serving the poor in Guatemala.

This is container # 81 for our ministry (Vine International). It was a hard push there at the end to get this load ready to go. I'm looking forward to my first day off in nineteen days.

My thanks to everyone who prayed for the completion of this task.

Shipping Update

2009-06-01T10:16:00.002-04:00

The shipping date for our container of medical supplies & equipment has been moved up to Thursday, June 4, to accomodate our carrier. I'm sure glad that Guy and Roy helped me last week, as now I have one less day to finish this load.

Work

2009-05-28T16:11:00.003-04:00

Guy and Roy (two of my CMA brothers) volunteered to work in the "bodega" today. With their help it looks like I am a full day closer to making our target shipping date of June 5.

THANKS brothers!

Work

2009-05-27T12:55:00.004-04:00

The work is going well, and we're looking good for our June 5 shipping deadline; as long as I don't slack off. I'm still expecting some stuff from a ministry in Virginia for this load. Please pray that it arrives soon, because the ship can't wait.

I'm working seven days a week (because of my previous slothfulness) so please also pray for my stamina.

Bruce White
Vine International, P.O. Box 52086, Knoxville TN 37950
www.vineinternational.org

2009-05-22T10:48:00.000-04:00

Please pray for my work. I've got a lot to do and little time to do it.

Our next container of medical aid for Guatemala ships on June 5.

Vancouver B.C.

2009-05-18T17:18:00.003-04:00

Finishing our work in Washington early (see WA Trip post) allowed us to do some sight seeing in Vancouver. Here are some highlights.

We rode the mile high cable car from Vancouver to the top of Grouse Mtn.

They get a little more snow than we do.

The view looking back towards Vancouver.

Vancouver sunset.

WA Trip

2009-05-18T17:00:00.002-04:00

We had a great trip to Lynden, Washington. We picked up a load of medical supplies and equipment for a mission clinic in Guatemala from a ministry near Seattle and took it to Lynden WA to get it ready to ship. There were seven pallets in all. It will be loaded and shipped with along with wheelchairs for another Guatemalan ministry.

Mike, Bill, Kenny and myself finished our work earlier than expected with the help of John and Ralph, who are shipping the wheelchairs. Finishing early allowed us to visit Vancouver, B.C. (See Vancouver post)

Hope you enjoy the pictures.

(L-R) Kenny, Mike, Bill, & John asking "how are we going to do this?"

Our moving van & mobile office.

Mike & Bill working in the "mobile office."

Finished Load. Seven Pallets.

Wheelchairs to be added.

Mission Trip

2009-05-09T10:10:00.003-04:00

Very early in the morning (Sunday) I and a few others will be leaving for Washington (state) to prep a container of medical supplies and equipment for missionaries in Guatemala.

Please pray for our work (that it will be completed swiftly) and for our fellowship with one another. We'll be gone about a week. I may not be able to check back in before we return home to Tennessee.

News from Guatemala

2009-04-28T09:03:00.005-04:00

Dear friends and family,

The McCutcheon’s, Cindy and I (Dennis) are moving toGuatemala and taking over the ministry of Vine International in that beautiful country. Dennis and Doris Rice have been at the helm for about 5 years now. They are retiring, tho’ I suspect they may slip back once in awhile.

Dennis and Doris are leaving large shoes to fill (also the furniture and vehicle, etc). They have improved the importation and flow of material aid to Christian medical ministries and orphanages. As I understand it Vine International was supporting about 30 such ministries when they came on board and through their project development Vine now helps to some degree over 100 orphanages, clinics and hospitals that share the Gospel of Christ as part of their work. The Rice’s are making it easy to step into their world. I actually turned Dennis down in May 2008 believing that MedEquip Missions, the ministry I have led for 13 years now, would have shop and warehouse space in the

United States

by the end of that year. But circumstances changed dramatically.It was Cindy that pointed out that the warehouse and shop already existed in the Vine Bodega in

Guatemala

and that we were the ones that should take over for Dennis and Doris. It was one of those slap yourself on the head “I could have had a V-8” moments.

God is good and patient with His children. It has been a tornado of activity since making this decision at Christmas time 2008. We cleaned house and put it up for sale as the bottom dropped out of the housing market. Our realtor kept shaking his head as the house showed 6 to 10 times per week. We have a contract for 96% of our asking price. The buyers don’t need to move in right away and have offered to rent the house to us after closing for a very reasonable price. Our realtor finally said SOMEONE is looking out for you. He’s right. Only God can orchestrate all that has happened.

We have our tickets for June 1. Peggy our youngest (18 y/o) will go for 6 weeks and Casey (older daughter) will come down the last week of that time and they will fly back together.We will be especially blessed in that the Rice’s will stay for about a month to help in the transition. Casey will get another opportunity to practice her craftsmanship as a biomedical technician and repair equipment. Woody Woodson and Dennis Rice are directly responsible for MedEquip Missions adding the repair of equipment in country using volunteer biomeds. We have learned a lot working together and this transition, I believe will be a blessing for all of us.

Pray for us. Cindy quits work April 29^th, we meet the buyers and attorneys April 3oth and finalize sale of our home of the last 17 years. We are speaking at churches for deputation. We are faith supported by donations from churches, family, friends and one business Metropolitan Medical in Asheville,NC. This Christian family owned and managed business sells anesthesia machines and service. They are a tremendous blessing financially, service and spare parts source. We are trying to set a budget, working on insurance needs, Peggy going to college, and travel. We will also be responsible for funding the equipment repair project we will add now to Vine International Guatemala’s services for medical missionaries in ‘the Land of Eternal Spring.’ Pray for our ability to learn the language. It’s my desire to learn Spanish and be able to preach in the next three to five years without a translator… pray, pray, pray.

We step into some pretty large shoes and know there will be difficult days. But it is our desire to be obedient to God’s call upon our lives. The verse we used for MedEquip Missions is “And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life”. (John 3:14-15)Our lives have meaning and purpose because we lift up Jesus to the world around us. We would not and could not do this except that God gave us through Christ eternal life. We leave 4 adult children and a 2 ½ year old granddaughter behind in His care. We go rejoicing for the opportunity to serve Him.

Container Cleared

2009-03-18T11:09:00.002-04:00

The container that we shipped to Guatemala last month was held up in customs because of some OTC meds that were recently banned from import. Who knew that we couldn't ship Equate Children's Cough and Cold??? Those meds have been found and removed, and our container is being cleared for delivery.

Shipping news

2009-01-16T10:32:00.003-05:00

We're planning to send out our next shipment to Guatemala during the first week in February. We'll be shipping solar panels for a missionary couple who live WAY back in the hills, 100,000 tablets of Albendazole (for treating parasitic worms), one very nice ultrasound machine, some kitchen items (pots, pans, &etc.) for an orphanage, as many exam tables as we can cram on board, and lots of other supplies and equipment. All in all this container should be worth well over 2.5 million dollars. Not bad for a low very budget ministry like Vine International.

It's cold here, and the warehouse is unheated. It was 6 degrees (F) when I rode my motorcycle into work this morning (yes, I'm crazy). I'm not complaining. I thank God for my little motorcycle, and it's a blessing for me to be able to serve my Lord by serving the poor. I thank all of you also, from the bottom of my heart, who give to make this work possible. Together we bless the poor in the Name of Jesus, and there can be no greater calling than to serve others in His Name.

Wheel Chair Distribution Update

2008-12-22T11:51:00.000-05:00

I spoke with Woody briefly on the phone this morning. He’s home from Guatemala and told me that the wheel chair distribution went well.

Wheel Chair Distribution

2008-12-10T12:05:00.001-05:00

My boss, Woody, left for Guatemala this morning. He and our man in Guatemala, Dennis, will be providing logistical support for a Joni and Friends wheelchair distribution team.

Please pray for a great trip.

Bruce White
Vine International, P.O. Box 52086, Knoxville TN 37950
www.vineinternational.org

Snow

2008-12-02T11:21:00.000-05:00

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. The highlands of east Tennessee received some snow last night, up to four inches in some places. But alas, only rain here in the valley.

Arizona Ride

2008-11-05T12:03:00.001-05:00

I've posted photos of my Arizona ride on my blog. You can check it out at http://bodegabikes.blogspot.com/

Shipping News

2008-10-04T13:05:00.000-04:00

The container left from our collection center at about 12:30 PM on Saturday. It should be in Guatemala by the end of next week. Please pray that customs doesn't take too long. The last one took four weeks.

Woody tells me that MAP International is putting together another entire container of just medicines for us. What a blessing! It will be just one of the many containers that are sent to our distribution center in Guatemala that never pass through our warehouse in Tennessee. We'll also be importing a container of 200 wheelchairs for Joni and Friends Wheels for the World before the year is out, and the next container that we'll ship from our collection center should be ready to sail by the end of November.

Sunday, Oct. 5, I'll leave for Arizona for two weeks of ministry and fun, so if you send me a message or e-mail don't expect a reply for a while.

Bruce White
Vine International, P.O. Box 52086, Knoxville TN 37950
www.vineinternational.org

Shipping date changed.

2008-10-01T12:04:00.002-04:00

Hurricane Ike disrupted shipping in the Gulf and the Dole banana boat has been running two days late ever since. We are now planning to ship on Saturday, Oct. 4.

As a result, I will now leave for Arizona on Sunday, Oct. 5.

Next Shipment

2008-09-28T18:26:00.002-04:00

The next shipment of medical supplies and equipment to Guatemala is booked to leave on Thursday, October 2. This container will include mostly items for general distribution, with only a few designated items. The ship sails on Monday, Oct. 6.

On Oct. 4 I leave for Arizona. I'll be out of the "bodega" (and away from my computor) for 2 weeks.

Please pray for a speedy trip for the container, and a safe trip for me. Go to "Bodega and Bikes" for details about my Arizona trip.

Grace Online

2008-09-16T12:36:00.001-04:00

Very rarely, but sometimes, I post my personal opinions on theological matters on my web log and a few online forums that I belong to. I love a good theological debate with folks who see Scripture from a different perspective. It can be a great learning experience. Unfortunately, not everyone is wired like I am. Some folks are more emotional than I, and some see doctrines that I would consider debatable as incontrovertible. When I say “Unity in the essentials, liberty in the non-essentials, charity in all things,” someone might respond, “There are no non-essentials!” Perhaps if I were close to such a person, and could walk through life with him/her, my life and love might have a positive effect over time, but little is ever gained by starting a public long distance debate.

The key is relationship. The closer I am to someone, the more likely I am to be able to have a theological debate that is mutually edifying.

Most of the people we meet online we will never meet face to face this side of eternity. Our relationship will never be very close, and many who read our post are total strangers. We come from a broad range of backgrounds and Biblical traditions. We cannot fully know the heart of our closest friend, much less the folks we meet online. Here we can only share our words with one another. We will never be as close to those here as we are to those we share our lives with day to day. So, in order to not offend casual acquaintances and strangers, I try not to bring up controversial subjects online, and when/if I respond to a post I try to do so with love and respect. I’ve seen folks get belligerent and/or hurt on-line, and it‘s unfortunate. I choose carefully who I debate with, and when I read something on-line that I do not agree with I try to learn whatever I can from that person and move on, not allowing myself to be offended. After all, I may be wrong, and only the Holy Spirit can change my heart and mind.

Please try to be polite and respectful to those you meet online.

If you disagree with what I’ve just written, I am not offended. I hope you will extend to me the grace to be wrong.

Next Shipment

2008-09-15T11:49:00.000-04:00

Very busy with the next shipment. No time to blog.

Next Shipment

2008-09-08T09:48:00.001-04:00

Our next container will sail the first week in October. The next three weeks will be very busy for me.

Me new Web Logs

2008-08-28T09:31:00.000-04:00

Since this web log has gotten cluttered with so much non-Vine related stuff I’ve decided to start two other blogs. See “My Blog List” to view those sites. I’ve also added a “Subscribe to” option for your convenience.

Riverside Baptist Church in Fourmile KY

2008-08-19T09:44:00.002-04:00

Container Arrived

2008-08-18T14:43:00.001-04:00

Dennis Rice announced in his blog that the container of medical supplies and equipment that we shipped on July 13 arrived at our “bodega” in Guatemala on August 13. Thanks for your prayers and support.

Not Much

2008-08-12T11:38:00.000-04:00

Not much going on. Working in the bodega preparing the next load to Guatemala. Melissa and I are riding the Bonnie to my mothers this weekend.

Devil's Triangle

2008-07-29T12:15:00.006-04:00

On July 25, 26, and 27 I attended the Devil’s Triangle Motorcycle Rally at Grey Wolf Campground on Hwy. 116 in Anderson County, TN. There were some great food vendors on hand, as well as vendors selling leathers and jewelry. A mini chopper was given away, and the raffle tickets were a mere one dollar. Live music was provided by two bands, Burden and Steam Shovel, and since I am a former member of Steam Shovel, I was invited to sing a few songs with them. Steam Shovel’s newest member, Johnny Cool, did a great job on lead vocals and guitar, and even performed a couple of solo acoustic sets. “Air Angus” did a tribute to AC/DC, playing “air guitar” in full costume on a stage that included a light show and fog machine. At night campfires dotted the landscape, and the owner (Odie) even provided a few fireworks. On Saturday there was a bike show, and four trophies were awarded.

The only drawbacks were the rain that canceled the bike rodeo, and the very small turnout. I fear Odie may have lost his shirt on this one.

The Devil’s Triangle is a fantastic ride with great scenery and many curves and switchbacks. The ride alone is worth the trip to Grey Wolf. The next rally will be a 4-wheeler event on September 26, 27 & 28. The next Devil’s Triangle Motorcycle Rally will be October 24, 25 & 25. I plan to be there, and I hope you will be too. Check out their web site at greywolfcampground.com.

The “People’s Choice” trophy went to this beautiful Harley.

Johnny Cool

Mini Chopper

Click on images to view full size.

New Link Added

2008-07-23T12:04:00.003-04:00

If you want to be blessed check out Rocky Mountain Radio under my links. Rocky Mountain Ministries Internet Radio features grace oriented music & talk featuring the music of Don Francisco, Wendy Francisco, Mike Banta, Annie Brooks and many more!

Shipping News

2008-07-15T10:30:00.001-04:00

The container shipped on schedule. PTL! I hope to have the next one ready to go before the end of September.

SHIPPING NEWS

2008-07-09T12:52:00.005-04:00

That date for our next shipment to Guatemala has changed - again. The trucking company could not pick up on Friday, so now we are shipping on Sunday (July 13). They assure us that the container will be on the ship; which sails on Monday.

2008-07-04T17:04:00.002-04:00

At 11:30pm on July 3 we began lining up for what is billed as America’s earliest 4th of July parade. My wife and I joined other Patriot Guard Riders who turned out with over 20 motorcycles for this midnight tradition in Gatlinburg TN. We were honored to ride behind the five floats that represented the four branches of our armed forces and the Gold Star Moms. It was a thrill to be part of this great celebration of freedom.

To see a great video about the Patriot Guard scroll down to “Links” and click on “Why be a Patriot Guard.”

Shipping News - Date Change

2008-06-26T11:16:00.002-04:00

Regarding my pervious post, we've had to push back our ship date for the next load of medical supplies and equipment to Guatemala. The new date is July 10 or 11. I can breath again! Thanks for your continued prayers for this ministry. BLESSINGS!

Shipping News - Vine International

2008-06-23T08:46:00.001-04:00

We have scheduled a date for our next shipment to Guatemala. It is July 3. As usual, I am very behind and will be putting in some long hours this week as I make final preparations. PLEASE PRAY for focus and stamina. THANKS!!!

Inspiration Riders

2008-06-23T08:42:00.001-04:00

Our praise band from the Inspiration Riders (CMA) played five times this weekend; three times at the Honda Hoot in Knoxville and twice at the motorcycle trials event at Hickory Hills (just outside Lenoir City). We had a few technical difficulties, but all went well otherwise. It was a very busy weekend, but a LOT of fun.

Personal News

2008-06-16T10:32:00.001-04:00

Being in two bands was too time consuming, so I’ve resigned from Steam Shovel. I’m still in the Inspiration Riders praise band. We’re performing five times this weekend. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday morning we will play at the Honda Hoot at Chilhowee Park in Knoxville. Saturday night and Sunday morning we play at the motorcycle trials event in Loudon County (Location: 922 Highway 70 West).

Monday, June 16, is our monthly Inspiration Riders chapter meeting. Everyone is welcome. Location: Knoxville Harley-Davidson on Lovell Road. Third floor in the HOG room. Meeting starts at 7:pm.

Prayer Request

2008-06-13T13:28:00.003-04:00

Please pray for my friend Rick. He has cancer. I don't know a lot of details. He's on cemo. He also has diabetes and heart problems. He and his wife Kay have two children, Clay (age 8), and Holly (14). Rick has one grown daughter from a previous marriage. They're like family to us.

The good news is that they are all believers. Should the Lord choose to take Rick home we all know that we will see him again.

Melissa and I are going to Chattanooga this weekend to be with them. Please pray for our trip, and that we can be a blessing to them.

TENT REVIVAL; update w/photo

2008-06-11T10:41:00.002-04:00

By “Bodega” Bruce White
[May 10, 2008] We had a great turn out for the Tent Revival sponsored by the Trinity Warriors (Athens TN chapter, CMA). There were about 100 people in attendance. We had a lot of great music, which included the band from our own Inspiration Riders, a traditional string band from Chattanooga, a husband and wife duet, and the “one man band” of Mike Crofts of “Step of Faith Ministries.” After the music the President of the Trinity Warriors, Alan Bohannon, delivered the message. Food and fellowship followed.

Thank you, Trinity Warriors, for inviting the Inspiration Riders to be part of this great event.
[Visit the Trinity Warriors on-line at http://cmaser6.org/TN/trinitywarriors ]

2008-06-11T10:36:00.000-04:00

A RIDE TO REMEMBER

2008-06-11T10:27:00.002-04:00

By “Bodega” Bruce White

Is it too early to be planning a ride for October? Not if your destination is ARIZONA!

On October 12, Living Water Ministries and Naco Baptist Church of Arizona will host their First Annual Biker Sunday, and we’re all invited.

“Spider” Tom and I will leave on Saturday, October 4. We plan to visit the Grand Canyon on the way out and arrive in Naco on or around October 9. Pastor Tim Scarbrough (who spoke at the Inspiration Riders chapter meeting in May) plans for us to visit some of the Biker hang outs in and around Naco to invite folks to come out for Biker Sunday. Pastor Tim has also offered to put us up in the Church, where they have a kitchen and showers. There may even be a short ride into old Mexico. On the way home we’ll stop in Hatfield Arkansas for the annual “Changing of the Colors” rally (Oct. 15-19).

Come ride with us. You don’t have to be an Inspiration Rider to join us for all or part of this ride. The plan is to ride about six hundred miles a day and stay in cheap motels at night. It’s going to be a great adventure, so change that oil, grease up that chain (if you’ve got ‘em), air out the sleeping bag, and join us for the ride of a lifetime!

If you would like to ride with us, or if you have questions, write to Inspiration Riders News, P.O. Box 344, Louisville, TN, 37777.

[Ride at your own risk. DOT helmet, motorcycle license, and insurance required for all riders. Cages welcome. You’re responsible for all your own expenses. To learn more about Living Water Ministries go to http://www.livingwateraz.com/ ]

Tent Revival Update

2008-06-02T11:19:00.000-04:00

The tent revival in Athens TN was a great time of praise and fellowship. Thank you, Trinity Warriors, for hosting this event.

TENT REVIVAL

2008-05-29T11:51:00.001-04:00

This weekend I’ll be singing with the Inspiration Riders at a tent revival in Athens, TN. Your prayers for this event are requested. Come out and join the fun.

“Unity, Liberty, and Love”

2008-05-26T14:27:00.003-04:00

“Unity, Liberty, and Love”
An editorial by Bruce White

Often we Christians disagree about what the Bible means by what it says, as well as about how we should respond to it. That’s only natural. After all, none of us knows the mind of God fully. None of us understands the Gospel perfectly. None of us has all knowledge and understanding. All of us are learning and growing, and we will never understand all things fully this side of Glory. Some things in the Bible are clearly understood, and some are not. Scripture itself tells us that, “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” [1 Cor. 13:12] Someday when we meet God “face to face” we will see how wrong we’ve been about many things, and we’ll also see those times when we got it right. Until then we should be humbled in the knowledge that we don’t know everything.

To disagree and debate is normal, and I would even say that it is healthy. A pastor friend once told me, “I’m glad that my congregation doesn’t agree with everything I say. It proves that they are thinking.” I learned a lot from that man, but there is still much that we do not agree on. We debated often, but always with love and respect.

I pray that we as Christians would always feel free to debate, and that we would always do so with love and respect for one another. The give and take of a good debate is a great learning tool that should not be disregarded.

It’s been said about the Christian faith that we should have “unity in the essentials; liberty in the non-essentials, and love in all things." We should always stand together on the clear teachings of Scripture, but please don’t be offended when someone disagrees with you over some doctrine that the Church has been debating for centuries. Defend your beliefs, but don’t vilify one another. None of us are perfect, so allow others the “liberty” to disagree with you. After all, they may be right.

News from Guatemala

2008-05-22T20:32:00.000-04:00

Dennis Rice, Vine’s distribution manager in Guatemala, has updated his weblog. Scroll down to “Links” and click on “Vine Guatemala” to read the latest news from the South End of the Pipline.

Guatemala Mission Teams Return

2008-05-13T10:39:00.001-04:00

I just learned that the Vine medical team and the Joni and Friends wheelchair distribution team returned home safe and sound from their mission trip to Guatemala. Thanks be to God for a good trip.

Monday Update

2008-05-05T13:23:00.000-04:00

No news is good news from the teams in Guatemala.

I’m trying to fight off some kind of respiratory malady that came on me last Friday.

Vine Medical & Joni and Friends Mission Trip

2008-05-01T06:33:00.003-04:00

At 6:00AM this morning I delivered about 340 pounds of medical supplies to McGhee Tyson Airport to a group of eager missionaries. As I write this, Vine International’s eleven member medical team is going through the check-in process and are about to embark on the first leg of their mission trip to Guatemala. The team is headed by Vine’s founder, Woody Woodson, and our Medical Director, Dr. Bruce Allsop.

Vine’s medical team will be traveling and working with a wheelchair distribution team from the Knoxville chapter of Joni and Friends. While Joni and Friends sees to the needs of the handicapped, our medical team will see to the needs of the sick, and all will be sharing the loving Gospel of Christ.

Please pray for our combined teams as they work and travel around Guatemala. They will return home on Friday, May 9.

Thank you for your prayers and support.

“Bodega” Bruce White

Devil’s Triangle Motorcycle Rally

2008-04-28T10:44:00.001-04:00

The rally went well, though the crowd was smaller than expected. Steam Shovel performed Friday and Saturday. We made a lot of mistakes, but no one seemed to notice. After the show we got a lot of positive feedback from the campers, the vendors, and even the other band that played after us.

The CMA held services on Sunday morning. By the time we got the band set up most of the rally goers had left. It began to rain just before we started the service, so most of those who were still there listened from their tents. I sang lead with the Inspiration Riders Band. “Spider” Tom played bass, Dick Anderson played guitar, and Bob Winter played drums. Lonnie Craig delivered a steering message and gave an invitation, which received no response.

On Saturday one of our Inspiration Riders, Wendell Connor, went off the road on one of the many hairpin turns. The following is from e-mails I received about Wendell.

Date: Sat, 26 Apr 2008 22:41:31 “Hi, warriors. I just left St. Mary’s North about an hour ago. Our brother Wendell Conner had the unfortunate experience of going down hard on 116 this afternoon. He has a concussion, and three broken bones in his right hand and wrist. He also has a very deep gash in his right hand and several gashes in his right leg.”

Date: Sun, 27 Apr 2008 10:55:39 “I’ve already talked to Kim Conner this morning. Wendell was sent home last night around midnight. He’s very sore and in a lot of pain. Doris and I are taking lunch to them in a little while and I’ll have an additional update for you later this afternoon. Continue to remember them both in your prayers. Wendell was “blessed” to go off into a fresh vegetable garden where the soil was very soft.”

Date: Sun, 27 Apr 2008 16:33:26 “Wendell is very sore and in quite a bit of pain. He’s “obeying” Miss Kim well. He goes to KOC tomorrow for evaluation of the breaks in his right hand and wrist. His left hand, along with most of the rest of his body, is badly bruised and that makes holding anything difficult.”

Please pray for a speedy recover, and thank God that it was not more serious.

On a more personal not; I went home every night during the rally, and I had a blast carving the Devil’s Triangle on my Bonnie. I’m no daredevil by any stretch of the imagination, but I do love a winding country road.

Me and my Bonnie

2008-04-22T12:05:00.004-04:00

I just wanted to share a picture of me taken during Daytona Bike Week. Click on it for a bigger image.

VINE INTERNATIONAL

2008-04-22T11:06:00.001-04:00

Vine International will have a medical team leaving for Guatemala on May 1 (headed by Woody Woodson and Dr. Bruce Allsop) to work along side the Joni and Friends wheelchair distribution team. Please pray for them. It’s never too early to begin praying for their health, safety, and witness. I’ll remain home.

INSPIRATION RIDERS

2008-04-22T11:04:00.002-04:00

The Inspiration Riders (Knoxville chapter of the CMA) has started a praise band called simply, “The Inspiration Riders.” We have Dick Anderson on guitar and backup vocals, Bob Winter on drums, “Spider Tom” Case on bass and backup vocals, and I sing.

We’ll be playing before the CMA’s Sunday morning service at the Devils Triangle Motorcycle Rally at Grey Wolf Campground on April 27. The service starts at 9:00AM. Our speakers will be Lonnie Greg and Sandi Fatow.

Please pray that many will come to know the Lord during this evangelistic outreach.

To learn more about the rally go to greywolfcampground.com.

STEAM SHOVEL

2008-04-22T11:02:00.000-04:00

Start with a little Lynyrd Skynyrd, throw in some ZZ Top, add some Fabulous Thunderbirds and a healthy dollop of Muddy Waters, sprinkle in some Eagles, mix well, and what do you get? Steam Shovel.

“HUH?!”

That’s right. Steam Shovel is an old school R&B band that I recently joined. We’ve been practicing for a few months now and have our first gig this weekend at the Devils Triangle Motorcycle Rally at Grey Wolf Campground. We’ll perform Friday and Saturday sometime after 2:00PM each day.

“What’s a nice Christian boy doing in that kind of band” you may ask? Well, as the late great Larry Norman said, “I know that Jesus saved my soul, but I still like to listen to the radio.” He also said, “There’s nothing wrong with playing blues licks.” This kind of music is just plain fun. It’s music about the human condition. Besides, to reach a lost and dying world we need to show them that we can identify with them. Hardcore bikers don’t identify with starched white shirts and hymn music.

The band is Chuck “Guitar” McCrosky on electric guitar, the “Great and Powerful Tony” on drums, “Spider Tom” Case on bass and backup vocals, and yours truly on vocals.

“Spider Tom” and I are both CMA members and will be wearing our colors on stage. If the crowd likes our music maybe they’ll be more willing to hear what we have to say about spiritual matters after the show.

The CMA will be well represented at this rally. Pray for witnessing opportunities.

To learn more about the rally go to greywolfcampground.com.

GOOD NEWS FROM GUATEMALA

2008-04-17T09:35:00.000-04:00

The container of medical supplies that we shipped on Friday, March 28, has cleared customs and arrived at our “bodega” in Guatemala on Friday, April 11. Two weeks door to door is better than we had hoped for. My thanks to everyone who prayed for a swift passage.

This forty foot container contained medicine and nutritional supplies that our medical team will need when they arrive on May 1. Our team will be working along side a Joni and Friends wheelchair distribution team for about a week. Please pray for the teams as they prepare to minister in the name of Jesus to some of the most impoverished people of Guatemala.

Bodega Bruce

P.S. I will remain at home to continue working on the next container, which is scheduled to ship in mid June.

2008-03-31T12:39:00.002-04:00

Dear Friends,

Thank you for your prayers. The container left for Guatemala on time Friday and should be at sea sometime today (Monday). This load includes supplies for our medical team which will be in Guatemala the first week in May, a dozen medical exam tables, 58 wheelchairs for Bethel Ministries International, supplies for Hospital Shalom Peten, and hundreds of other items for distribution to anyone in need from our "bodega" in Guatemala.

Now it's time for me to start working on the next load, which should be ready to sail sometime in May.

THANKS for your prayers and support.
Bodega Bruce

Check out the Links (below right) to visit our Vine Guatemala blog site, Hospital Shalom, and Bethel.

Vine International: Ministry Prayer Request

2008-03-19T11:44:00.002-04:00

I just found out that our shipping date for the next container of medical supplies to Guatemala is March 28. This caught me a little off guard, as I was hoping to have another week. (I’m glade I went to Daytona, but part of me wishes I could have that time back.) Vine has a medical team going on May 1, and we have medicines in our “bodega” (warehouse) that they will need. It can take 3-4 weeks to clear customs, so shipping on the 28th is our only option.

Recently I saw “WWJWD?” That stands for “What Would John Wayne Do?” The “Duke” would hunker down and get the job done no matter what, and that’s what I’ll do. I’ll be working long hours over the next 9 days, including Easter. Please pray for my stamina.

Bodega Bruce

Shipping News

2008-03-18T11:03:00.003-04:00

So far this year Vine has imported 3 containers into Guatemala. One came from our “bodega” in Tennessee, one from Samaritan’s Purse, and one from MAP International. We hope to have another one ready to ship from our “bodega” in a few weeks, and Joni and Friends of Knoxville is working on a container of wheelchairs. Vine has partnered with Joni and Friends since the day they opened their Knoxville office, and has handled the importation of all their wheelchairs into Guatemala. 2008 is off to a great start, thanks to all our great supporters! You can click on the Vine International link (below right) to visit our home page.

Daytona Bike Week

2008-03-12T10:19:00.010-04:00

Ministering at Daytona
By Bruce White

This year a few Inspiration Riders went to Daytona Bike Week. Bike Week can be a lot of fun, but the main reason you’ll see us there is for ministry. We long to share the Gospel of Jesus with others, to lend a hand at biker events, or just be a friend when we see someone in need.

One evening a few of us met a waitress who I’ll call Angie, (not her real name). Angie is a single mother of two, and has known some hard times for someone so young. She told us that her oldest son asked her recently, “Who is Jesus?” Her son’s question touched her heart. She felt like he needed to know who Jesus was and she enrolled him in Sunday School at a local Church.

We were able to share the Gospel with Angie and offer her some encouragement. She was eager to listen and promised to teach what we had shared to her children. We left her a tract to help her on her journey of knowing Christ, and I pray that Angie will take to heart what she heard from us.

Opportunities like this one are what the CMA member lives for. What a joy it was to share the love of God with Angie. That’s why we ware the patch, and that’s why we go to events like Daytona Bike Week.

When you see us wearing the CMA patch, ask us why we wear it. We won’t preach at you, we’ll just tell you that Jesus loves us, and He wants you to know that He loves you, too.”

THE RIDE HOME
By Bruce White

All good things must come to an end, so on Saturday, March 8, I began my ride home from Daytona. The Interstate system is a great way to get where you’re going fast, but let’s face it, it’s BORING! For my ride home I decided to take the US Highways and see a little of our great country. Here’s a few of the things that I saw that I would have missed if I had taken the Interstate.

One thing you’ll not find off the next exit is Gram’s Kitchen. The food was fantastic, and the walls were covered with motorcycle memorabilia and painted saw blades.

In south Georgia I discovered the roadside grave of one of our southern heroes, 1st LT Elias Whiddon, CSA, 1838-1865. As I continued north I passed Texas Longhorn cattle ranches, Bison ranches, pecan groves, and peach orchards. I saw Canadian geese on ponds covered with lilies, and American flags flying from front porches. I rode through small town squares with red brick courthouses and monuments to Confederate soldiers, and passed many a cotton field.

Riding the back roads takes longer, but if you love to ride there’s nothing like slowing down to smell the chicken ranch.

Happy riding, and I’ll see you on the back roads.

Daytona

2008-02-26T13:20:00.004-05:00

On February 29 I’ll be riding my “Bonnie” [Triumph Bonneville] to Daytona Beach to minister with the CMA among the bikers attending Bike Week. Your prayers are requested not only for safety but also for our ministry. I’ll be there all week and will start home on March 8.

Bodega Bruce

Shipping News

2008-01-25T18:45:00.000-05:00

GOOD NEWS! We shipped the container to Guatemala today (January 25). The ship was a day late getting here due to fog in the Gulf of Mexico. It will sail early next week with our precious cargo.

Bodega Bruce

Shipping News

2008-01-17T22:11:00.000-05:00

I've been working long hours to get the next container ready to go.
There's still a lot of work to do, but the end is in sight. The ship
date is Thursday, Jan, 24. To all my friends who think I've dropped off
the face of the earth, just call the "bodega." I'm there seven days a
week and late into the evening until this job is done.

Blessings!
Bodega Bruce

Christmas Ride

2007-12-28T11:53:00.000-05:00

On Christmas day Melissa and I celebrated with family in Hendersonville, TN. The whole family was there but for Ben and Jennifer, who were with Jen’s parents in Kentucky. It was good to see Andrew again, who was home from Princeton Seminary. Melissa’s mom, Scotty, also had Christmas dinner with us.

Melissa had the week off and wanted to stay in Nashville for the week to visit with her family, but I needed to get back to work, so we “hound dogged” the Trumpet (my Triumph Bonneville) in the pick-up and I rode back to Knoxville that night. It was a cold ride, but I arrived safe and sound about 10:30PM. Melissa returns on Saturday.

I hope you all had a great Christmas, and may God bless you all in the coming year.

Welcome Home

2007-12-27T12:28:00.000-05:00

On December 26 members of the Patriot Guard Riders and the Christian Motorcyclist Association gathered at McGhee Tyson Airport to welcome home Stephen Siegel, USN, who returned after four years of serving our nation overseas.

Stephen was based in Japan and worked in Air/Sea Rescue off of the USS Juno. His family was on hand to greet their loved one, and it was an honor to stand beside them in the flag line and shake Stephen’s hand.

The PGR and CMA would like to thank Stephen for his service to out country. Welcome home, and God bless you!

CHRISTMAS

2007-12-18T13:31:00.000-05:00

On December 15 and 16 members of the Christian Motorcyclist Association and the Sons of Pennyrile Motorcycle Club joined Blount county’s Center of Hope mission to distribute toys and the Word to children and their parents in East Tennessee. On Saturday the toy distribution was at the Center of Hope. I was unable to attend; being at the Wreaths Across America ceremony. However, on Sunday I was able to join Center of Hope in traveling to the Appalachian Mountains to distribute toys and food to children and their families at Wynn Elementary School. As a light snow fell, I and three of my CMA brothers directed traffic in the parking lot while others ministered to the families inside. It was an all day affair.

The US Army provided two trucks designed for carrying heavy equipment to transport the toys, while a semi-truck transported the food.

Having grown up in a small mountain community, it brought back memories of going down to the local Methodist Church to receive our Christmas gifts. What a blessing it was to continue the tradition. Thank you, Center of Hope, for providing this opportunity to serve.

Wreaths Across America

2007-12-18T11:44:00.001-05:00

On December 15 members of the Knoxville Patriot Guard Riders (PGR) and the Christian Motorcyclist Association (CMA) joined the nationwide project "Wreaths Across America" to honored our fallen Veterans by placing seven Christmas wreaths at each of Knoxville’s two veteran’s cemeteries; one wreath each for the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, National Guard, and POW/MIAs.

Ceremonies were carried out simultaneously at each cemetery and featured speeches, bagpipes, bugles, and ROTC honor guards. Local news anchor Alan Williams was the keynote speaker at the National Cemetery, while Knox County Mayor Ragsdale spoke at the East Tennessee Veterans Cemetery.

It was my honor to attended the ceremony at the National Cemetery as part of the rifle squad that delivered the 21 gun salute. Members from each of the armed services placed their wreath, and former POW Bill Robinson placing the wreath for our POW/MIAs.

Photo provided by Norm Burns.

Personal News

2007-11-26T12:10:00.000-05:00

Over the river and through the woods! This year Melissa and I spent Thanksgiving at my mother’s. Both of my brothers were there, Charles and John, as well as my sister Ellen and her children Ben and wife Jennifer, Mina and husband Ronnie, and Hannah and boyfriend Cory. Ellen’s number two son Andrew was at Princeton Seminary and was unable to make the trip. Mama baked a twenty-two pound turkey with all the fixin’s, and a good time was had by all.

I hope your Thanksgiving was an equally blessed time. We have much to be thankful for.

Shipping News - Nov. 26, 2007

2007-11-26T11:39:00.000-05:00

Our container (shipped on October 22) arrived safe and sound at our ‘bodega’ in Guatemala on November 17. Thanks for your prayers. We had hoped to send another before the end of the year, but we’ve run out of time. The next ship sails on December 3 and arrives in port two days later, but that wouldn’t leave enough time for customs clearance before the Guatemalan customs office shuts down for the holidays. They re-open on January 7, and since it’s much cheaper to store it here rather than in port we’ve decided to hold off shipping until January. Samaritan’s Purse and MAP International are both preparing containers for us, which will also ship in January. It will be a busy month for our co-workers, Dennis and Doris Rice.

We’re importing a container prepared by a ministry in Georgia for Phil Plunk Phil is a dentist who has been ministering to the poor in Guatemala for many years. That container is in port now and we expect it to clear customs in a week or two. Phil’s a great guy who does a great work. My wife and I had the pleasure of staying at his house in Quetzaltenango a few years ago when we were on a work trip, and he even loaned my his motorcycle so that I would have some transportation while we were there.

Please continue to keep Vine International in your prayers as we serve those who serve the poor on the Name of Jesus.

Shipping News - Oct. 24, 2007

2007-10-24T13:53:00.001-04:00

On Monday Oct. 22 we (Vine International) shipped a container of medical supplies and equipment for our distribution center in Guatemala. This is container number 61 for us. Among the 918 items in the container are 4 anesthesia machines, an infant incubator, and a portable x-ray machine. The ship sails on Monday the 29th. Please pray for a safe voyage and swift customs clearance.

THANKS!

Shipping News - by Woody Woodson

2007-08-30T09:57:00.000-04:00

First, much thanks for your prayers concerning Vine's shipping issues. To say they've been resolved is not totally correct, but as the Lord often does - He provides another way - & in this case - it's paying import taxes on the aid. Sounds weird - right? Having to pay taxes to donate aid? Actually, it gets stranger. It can be cheaper to pay taxes than to import tax-free. Would a short explanation help? Technically, the container shipping companies give shippers (like Vine) free use of the 40-foot box for about a week & then start charging daily penalties - & earlier in 2006, they began enforcing those penalties. Importing tax-free through the First Lady's Office of Guatemala takes a month & we've been paying $1,000 to $1,500 in penalties per tax-free container. By-passing the First Lady's Office & just paying the import tax on charitable aid is a quick process - with no penalties. We've just shipped in 2 tax-paid containers - one costing $450 & one with a lot of medicines & vitamins costing $1,550 in taxes. Overall - we're figuring the typical container will be under $1,000 in taxes - without all the delays. Between now & the end of the year, we'll be playing catch-up on our aid-levels shipped for 2007 & when the new Guatemalan administration is installed in January after elections, we'll re-visit all the tax-free issues with the new First Lady's Office. Clear as mud? There is nothing easy or simple about this process - but what we do know is that well over 100 projects in Guatemala look to Vine to assist their efforts in serving the poor in Jesus' name. So, please know - your prayers & support are effective & they keep the pipeline flowing. Again, muchas gracias.

Riding the Blue Ridge

2007-08-16T11:20:00.000-04:00

The last weekend in July the wife and I decided to get out of town, so we tied the camping gear to the Trumpet and headed for the Virginia side of the Blue Ridge Parkway. If you’ve never ridden the Blue Ridge, I highly recommend it.

In southern Virginia the Parkway winds through mountains, forests, and farms. As you travel north you begin to see more of the mountain vistas and twisty roads that are common to the North Carolina side. On the Blue Ridge there are no stop signs, little traffic, and no commercial advertising to mare the natural beauty. There are also no signs to tell you where to find gas. This shouldn't be a problem for cars, but if you're on a bike you may want to pre-plan your stops. The employees at the many attractions along the way can direct you to the nearest gas station.

At the north end of the Parkway is Skyline Drive, which winds through the Shenandoah National Park. There is a $10 entrance fee for bikes ($15 for cars), but the worst part about the Skyline is the 35 mph speed limit. The views are great. Melissa enjoys the view at one of the many overlooks (picture at right). Deer are plentiful and somewhat tame, which probably accounts for the painfully slow speed limit. This deer (pictured left) was just a few yards from our campsite. One good thing about the Skyline is that gas is available at reasonable prices. Each gas station also has a restaurant, campground, gift shop, and camp store. Camping is $15 or $20, depending on which campground you choose. There is a lodge and some cabins, but they are a bit pricey. We stayed in the tent.

Some of Virginia’s attractions are the Natural Bridge near Glasgow (pictured at left), the D-Day memorial near Bedford (pictured below right), and the Luray Caverns in Luray, VA. Mount Airy, NC (the boyhood home of Andy Griffith) is a good place to stop for the night. There are plenty of restaurants and motels, and the ride down 691 from Orchard Gap will bring a smile to the face of even the most jaded Dragon rider. (FYI - The infamous "Dragon" is 11 miles with 318 curves on Hwy. 129 leading up to Deal's Gap, NC.)

If you plan to ride (or drive) the whole Blue Ridge and Skyline, plus see a few sites along the way, give yourself about five or six days.

Vine Is Shipping Again

2007-08-15T16:37:00.000-04:00

For the first time since 1993 the Guatemalan government’s social aid department (SOSEP) has refused to allow us to import medical aid and equipment duty free, forcing us to pay taxes on material that we give away free to missionaries and ministries throughout that country.

Last week we imported our first “commercial” shipment; a container of wheelchairs and handicap aids. The customs charges were very reasonable. Yesterday we shipped another container. This one includes more highly valued items like medicines and children’s vitamins, which are subject to inspection by their department of health. The ship sails on Monday (Aug. 13) and will be in port on Wednesday. Customs clearance should take about two weeks.

Please pray that all goes well with this container. I'm hoping that SOSEP’s refusal to work with us will be a blessing in disguise, allowing us to ship whenever we want without waiting for their approval, speeding up the clearance process once in port, and also allowing us to again ship Bibles and tracts, something they began denying us about four years ago.

Thank you all for your prayers. I'll keep you posted.

Bodega Bruce