The Return Journey Begins

After nearly two weeks on hold, I finally receive orders to Haiti; 1543 (3:43 pm) Friday - Report to Port au Prince Sunday, 27 June. Wouldn't you know - I leave the day before the AL Minor Honor Tournament begins for my wonderful team of 12. Go Figure???

Go AL Honor's Red Sox - You ROCK!!!

So, I finally leave Portland International Airport 0830 today, swapped planes in Dallas (saw the new Dallas Cowboy's Stadium as I landed) then it was off to Miami and a "Fly BY" of the Deep Water Horizon Oil Rig and its miles of oil-septic mess - actually saw where the surface oil is being burned. Way to go BP!!!

Landed in Miami about 2300 (9 p.m.) Leaving for Port au Prince 1230 Sunday for up to a 30 day stay. Mission is to locate, evaluate, and recommend debris processing and disposal sites. My thought is an artificial reef!!! Disposes of rubble / debris, creates a positive environmental habitat, and promotes a tourist economy with an Aqua-eco Adventure for divers and snorkelers

Although exceptionally sad to leave my loving wife Christy and "most-times" adorable kids Jonas, William, and Lauren behind, I am looking forward to this mission.

I am most excited to see the distribution of kites and soccer balls donated to our on-going KITES for Haiti's Kids effort. Thanks to friends at NIKE Corporate Headquarters in Bedaverton, OR headed by Leanne Hanley, Oregon District II Little League, Montivella Little League, and Katie Blanks ASA Softball team, more than 500 kites and 150 soccer balls to be given out to kids in and around Port au Prince.

Also, thanks to good friend Mel Acree of NAVFAC and his Norfolk, VA area church group for helping with this distribution.

Haiti - Round Two

Haiti, Round Two - It has been requested I return (no, not by the police!) to Port au Prince, Haiti assisting USAID / State Department establish up to 10 debris desposal sites. I leave 20 June 10.

I am looking forward to again assisting this devistated country. However, It breaks my heart to leave behind my wonderful wife and kids; all of whom I love very much.

More to come via Facebook and here on the BLOG as this is an important story to tell and share.

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