GCC India October 2006

Food Drop Dec. 9, 2006

2006-11-15T09:01:00.001-05:00

GCC October 2006 India Team -

Who: GCC October 2006 India Team, family, significant others, and friends - to serve together as the India October 2006 team

What: Food Drop 2006

Join thousands around the area to help off load semi-trucks full of food and personal care items and then deliever the boxes to neighborhoods around the michana area

Where: Granger Community Church / then to the local neighborhoods (Washington Gardens in Elkhart)

When: Saturday, December 9, 2006

Time: 8:15am - Meet at Information Kiosk

Why: For team building/bonding and to build memories. As well as to help those less fortunate in the Michiana area. We as the GCC October 2006 India team would off load a semi-truck together, then deliever the food to a neighborhood together.

Next Step: Please show up at the "Information Kiosk" in the atrium.

*After we are done at the Food Drop we will go to Cracker Barrel for lunch.

Thank you!

Picture Party!!!

2006-11-15T08:51:00.000-05:00

GCC October 2006 India Team Picture Party

Sunday, December 3, 2006

Alan and Terry Snell, Chad Anderson, Bud Vanderbutts

Terry Akins, Mike Worden

Dan Blacketor with his Serpent Charming Flute - a thank you from the October team

Vicki Young, Melissa Parish, Rich

Wendy Wisler, Shelly Jackson, Vicki Young

Brian Young, Janet Maggert, Dave and Nancy Leist, Kevin Maggert, Mike Worden
Fred Sandine, Cindy Shuder

Who: You, spouses and significant others

What: Picture Party

Where: Joe Wisler's Residence

When: Sunday, December 3, 2006

Time: 2pm - ?

What to Bring: appetizer, salads, veggies, drinks and desserts

INDIA PICTURES AND STORIES TOO!

Made it Back!

2006-11-04T22:21:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to let you know we made it back from India with no problems. Thank you again for the prayers.

THE END

2006-11-02T03:18:00.000-05:00

THE END!

Signing off from India

2006-11-02T03:17:00.000-05:00

It is 10:30pm here inKanyakumari, India on Thursday, November 2, 2006 evening. We are getting packed up and will be ready to start our trek home tomorrow.

Friday we will leave at 9am from Cape Residency Hotel. We will have a three hour ride back to Trivandrum to catch our flight to Bombay, India. We will have a 7 hour layover before taking off at 12:45am (India time) for a 15 hour flight to JFK - New York - USA. Once in New York we will go through customs and then have another 7 hour layover. We then will leave for Cincinnati at 1:30pm and then have an 1 1/2 layover before leaving for South Bend, Indiana. We will arrive in South Bend at 6:05pm.

I will try to post some blog articles as we travel back to the states, but if you don't hear from the blog again, please know we are on our way home.

Again, I Skip Dodge on behalf of the GCC October 2006 India team thank you for the prayers, comments posted on the blog and everything each of you have done for this team. We could not have done it without you!

Signing off from Kanyakumari,India -

Skip Dodge and the GCC October 2006 India team.

2006-11-02T01:27:00.001-05:00

The bus we rode in to and from the worksite each day

Melissa Parish, Shelly Jackson, Saju L Das - works for the Discipleship Center

Waiters at the Hotel

2006-11-02T01:07:00.000-05:00

Our waiters at the Hotel we stayed at. These two guys waited on us each meal while we stay at the Hotel. They brought us our soup first, then set up the small buffet line, and then served coffee and tea. They did a great and awesome job for us!

Laying Brick

2006-11-02T00:57:00.000-05:00

Laying Brick on the house

Alan Snell

Kevin Maggert and Terry Akins

Pam Murphy and Alan Snell

Dave Leist and Alan Snell

Pam Murphy

Dave Leist with Indian worker

Passing the Brick

2006-11-02T00:31:00.000-05:00

Nope, it's not Hot Potato..........hot brick maybe

Passing the brick

Vel and Les Rassi

Shelly Jackson and Bud Vanderbutts

Melissa parish passing the bricks

Cindy Shuder and Bud Vanderbutts

Terry Akins and Janet Maggert

Kevin Maggert and Shelly Jackson

Ricksaw Ride

2006-11-01T23:43:00.000-05:00

Several of the team members went on ricksaw rides from the shopping area back to the hotel. The rides proved to be very eventful. A ricksaw is like a golf cart on three wheels. The Indian people try to fit as many in as they can however we usually only had 3 or 4 people in ours.

Kevin and Janet Maggert with Joe Wisler

Thursday, November 2, 2006 - Day Four

2006-11-01T23:19:00.000-05:00

Thursday welcomed us with oatmeal and eggs for breakfast. The time has passed by so fast here as today will be our last day on the worksite. We have enjoyed our time here and are sad to see it come to an end. We are excited though as to how God is and has been using us and can't wait to share stories and pictures with you when we return.

Today it is breezer, but still quite warm and very sunny. We have been blessed to have perfect weather to build in as usually it is rainy and cloudy.

Today we started off pouring concrete, moving granite rocks and making rebarb reinforcements. Later today it looks as though we may get to do some "bricking." The brick truck arrived so it looks promising.

The team getting the concrete mixer ready to go

Joe Wisler helping Indian Woman get some water

Brick truck

Nancy Leist

Million Dollar View

2006-11-01T13:05:00.000-05:00

We had the Ocean off to one side and the mountains off to the other.

Discipleship Center Evening

2006-11-01T12:51:00.000-05:00

Wednesday evening the Discipleship Center had supper catered as well as had a little "thank you" for each of us GCC team members. We ate supper outside. It was really neat......especially when the power went out. The sky was awesome with a half moon.

Dan Blacketor with Mr. Joseph who is the minister for the local church of the village that we are building in.

WORK WORK WORK WORK WORK

2006-11-01T08:56:00.000-05:00

More Work....................

Nancy Leist

Chad Simpson

Great Minds Think Alike!

2006-11-01T08:51:00.000-05:00

Team 3:16

Alan Snell, Skip Dodge, Les Rassi

Dog Days of India

2006-11-01T02:19:00.000-05:00

Scooter and Terry taking a nap

Saju L Das

2006-11-01T01:54:00.000-05:00

Saju - Engineer for Discipleship Center

Saju supervises all the buildings being made by the Discipleship Center. The Discipleship Center gave us our hospitatlity while here in India while on the worksite.

Building an Indian home

2006-11-01T00:00:00.000-05:00

Below are the steps to building an Indian home

First where the foundation will be poured is dug out with a backhoe

At this time there were no houses that were partially bricked.

Plaster on the walls of the house

Wednesday, November 1, 2006 - Day Three

2006-10-31T23:29:00.000-05:00

Wednesday morning welcomed us with very high temperatures to start with, very little breeze, and high humidity. We continue on moving sand, granite rocks, and making the rebar reinforcements. Judy Rupis

Les Rassi

Terry Akins and Kevin Maggert

Vel Rassi

Melissa Parish, Kevin and Janet Maggert

Indian worker mixing up cement

Indian worker creating handle on tool that he will be using

Joe Wisler

Water truck

Shelly Jackson, Nancy Leist with Discipleship people

Indian workers

Indian worker throwing granite rocks

Alan Snell, Chad Anderson, and Pam Murphy making rebarb reinforcements for the foundation of the houses.

Bud Vanderbutts

Cindy Shuder

GCC India Team Mascot - Scooter

2006-10-31T11:12:00.000-05:00

Scooter the GCC India Team Mascot.

Lunghie Club

2006-10-31T11:04:00.000-05:00

President: Chad Anderson
CFO: Mike Worden
Secretary: Fred Sandine

Power to the Lunghie (Pronounced Lunky)

Most Indian Men wear the traditional Lungie.

Mike Worden and Chad Anderson

This is how the lunghie is worn by the Indian men.

Lunch Catered by Shannon Papp

2006-10-31T03:25:00.000-05:00

Tuesday's lunch consisted of Lunch catered by Shannon Papp. we ate outside at the Discipleship Center. Before we left for India, Shannon had packed us a duffle bag full of food consisting of Fiddle/Faddle, tuna, beef jerky, coffee, etc. Thank you Shannon! We appreciate your generosity and you did a great job on the bag of food. Thanks!

Terry Akins having some bar-b-que chicken

Janet and Kevin Maggert

Les and Vel Rassi

Dave and Nancy Leist

Mid-day - Tuesday, October 31, 2006

2006-10-31T02:16:00.000-05:00

Mid-day

View of the worksite

Bud Vanderbutts with a pan on his head

Nancy Leist passing off mortar

Melissa Parish passing off mortar

Shelly Jackson walking with Pam Murphy

Transportation, breakroom, first-aid all in one

You never know what you'll see coming around the corner!

Bud Vanderbutts

Dan Blacketor using a mumtee

Mike Worden, Cindy Shuder, and Chad Anderson - SLACKERS!!! - NOT!

Skipster the Blogster

2006-10-31T02:13:00.000-05:00

Coming to you live from Kanyakumari, India! The weather is cloudy, nice breeze coming from the Ocean, and the temp at about 85. While the rest are working away pouring cement, this is Skip Dodge updating the blog while actually on the worksite!!! On behalf of the team, thank you again for all your prayers. The time here in India has been so rewarding as well as beneficial. The Lord continues to work in and through us and we can't wait to share all the stories and pictures with you.

Tuesday, October 31, 2006 - Day - Pouring Cement

2006-10-31T01:52:00.000-05:00

The team gathered to help pour cement concrete for the foundation of one of the houses.

Les Rassi and Mike Worden

Bud Vanderbutts

Bud Vanderbutts catching empty pan from Shelly Jackson

Kevin Maggert taking mortar from Chad Anderson

Chad Simpson working with Judy Rupis

Tuesday, October 31, 2006 - Day Two Morning

2006-10-30T23:35:00.000-05:00

Worksite Day 2 welcomed us with a little sprinkle of rain on the way to the worksite, but once on the site it's cloudy and dry. I sit here writing to you actually onsite! It's 10:30am and the team is doing well and having a great time. We know a little more about what we are doing today so feel more comfortable. The Indian people are so welcoming and nice to work with. While communication is still a little tricky again a smile go a long ways.

Chad Simpson's impression of the worksite was, "amazing." He's bonded well with the team, despite his troubles getting here. He's quickly learned to over look that and is serving the Lord with all his heart despite the troubles he had getting here.

Melissa Parish's impression of the worksite, "it's pretty cool how we do the assembly line for the mortar. "

Kevin Maggert's impression of the worksite, "totally awesome with a million dollar view. The mountains remind him of the "Lord of Rings."

Alan Snell's impression of the worksite, "Busy and very Productive."

Dan Blacketor our fearless leader's impression said, "five star experience"

Bud Vanderbutts says the worksite is, "SWEEEEET"

Cindy Shuder says, "she likes the non-verbal communication with our eyes." Due to not having any translator's.

Fred Sandine says, "Enjoyable experience learning communication through signs or words of two cultural words."

Nancy Leist carrying mortar

Pam Murphy carrying cement bricks

Fred Sandine carry cement rocks

Monday, October 30, 2006 - Work - Day 1

2006-10-30T07:22:00.000-05:00

After 4 days of rainy weather today was completely sunny, dry, warm, and there was a nice breeze off the Ocean. After a hearty breakfast of toast and egg omlete and a cup of Indian coffee on the side, we were off to the worksite at 9AM. Mountains off to the South and beautiful ocean view to the East made for a nice landscape view. Palm trees all around and green vegetation. Our biggest challenge was communication with the Indian laborers and contractors because there were no translators on site. But a smile and a thumbs up go a long ways. We were met at the site by George from the Discipleship Center to get us started. The work was very physical between carrying cement rocks, passing mortar in a distribution line, and to making reinforcements from the rebarb. We had lunch in the nearby village that caught the attention of some young children close by. We got all the cement rocks in place for the foundations of the house before we ended our workday around 4:30pm. We packed 21 team members into a 14 passenger bus.................with Skip Dodge, Melissa Parish, and Judy Rupis all in the front seat of the bus.

Foundation of house at the beginning of the day

Kevin Maggert

Bud Vanderbutts

Cindy Shuder with mortar

Mike Worden and Chad Anderson

Shelly Jackson with Indian friend

Chad Simpson drinking Miranda pop from a bag. That's how they do it in India!

Vel Rassi

Melissa Parish collecting the empty pans

Cindy Shuder passing on mortar

Joe Wisler carrying concrete rocks

Crew working on the mortar on the foundation of the house

Village children

Joe Wisler and David Leist

Nancy Leist and Chad Anderson

Mortar poured in between the reinforced barb to create the foundation of the house

Skip Dodge cutting rebarb

Foundation of house at the end of the day

How we are at the end of the first work day....................EXHAUSTED!!!

Terry Akins and Alan Snell

Sunday, October 29, 2006 - Indian Fort

2006-10-29T10:57:00.000-05:00

Indian Fort

View from above the Indian Fort

Kevin and Janet Maggert

Les and Vel Rassi

Skip Dodge, Terry Akins, Shelly Jackson

Dan Blacketor

Judy Rupis and Melissa Parish

Sunday, October 29, 2006 - Sightseeing

2006-10-29T10:43:00.000-05:00

Sightseeing

Saint Thiruvallluar

Sunday, October 29, 2006 - Village

2006-10-29T10:10:00.000-05:00

After the worksite we went onto the village that was close by.

Dan Blacketor with kids

Sunday, October 29, 2006 - WORKSITE

2006-10-29T09:39:00.000-05:00

WORK SITE

Footers 4' deep

Chad Simpson Arrives in India

2006-10-29T08:40:00.000-05:00

When Chad Simpson arrived in Kanyakumari at 6:30pm Sunday evening. He was in great spirits and was excited to be in India with the rest of the team.

Chad Simpson after getting off plane in Trivandrum, India. Welcome to India Chad!

Chad Simpson and Mike Worden

Pictures Now on Blog

2006-10-28T14:50:00.000-05:00

Okay, I think I have the blog caught up as best I can with pictures. I have updated the previous blog postings with pictures so please check them out. I apologize for the problems in the beginning, but should be all okay now. Thank you for your patiences and most of all your prayers.

Skip Dodge

Saturday, October 28, 2006

2006-10-28T13:18:00.000-05:00

We started out by having breakfast again at the Hotel at 7:30am.

We then got into the vans and went to several locations around the area.

Stella Maris Enstitude of Devt Studies

Then we went on to the Discipleship Center

Here is a picture of a model house that we will be building

After our touring around we went to see a close by village. This was one of the most rewarding parts of the trip so far. Here we met some village familes and their children.

Chad Anderson with village children

Melissa Parish with village kids

Front: Alan Snell, Skip Dodge
Back: Pam Murphy, Cindy Shuder, Mike Worden

After the village we came back and had lunch and then went shopping for a little while.

It has rained and rained here in Kanyakumari. But we still plan on building houses starting Monday. We won't let rain stop us.

Posted by Skip Dodge

Friday, October 27, 2006

2006-10-27T13:07:00.000-05:00

Posted on Friday, October 27, 2006 at 11:36PM - Kanyakumari, India

This morning we got up and had breakfast at the YWCA in Chennai, India

Skip Dodge, Shelly Jackson, Terry Akins

After that we went to the Bible League Office in Chennai, India, but not after going through tons of traffic.

Streets of Chennai, India

Bible League Men with Mike Worden

Lunch at the Radisson INN Hotel.

Shelly Jackson with Chad Anderson at lunch

We then headed for the Chennai airport where we hopped onto an ATR Jet Airways plane and headed for Trivandrum at 2:25pm. We landed in Trivandrum at 4:00pm and were off on a three hour van trip to our final destination of Kanyakumari.

Once in Kanyakumari we checked into our Cape Hotel.

We got our room assignments, checked the rooms out and then had a brief meeting. Here we met Rabi Shelley who works with World Relief and Mr. Finch who works with the Discipleship Training Center, both of which we are working with side by side here. We had supper and then hung out as a team for a little while.

We are all pretty tired, but will be ready for tomorrow. We will have breakfast at the Hotel and then head to the work site to visit it.

Regarding our team mate who mis-placed his passport, by the grace of God he was able to get a new passport, and a VISA in it, and is currently enroute to India............Praise the Lord!!! He will meet up with us on Sunday, around 1PM. Thank you for your prayers regarding him.

Posted by Skip Dodge

Touch Down - 12:35AM - 10.27.06

2006-10-26T20:45:00.001-05:00

MADE IT!!!

Whew! We made it to India! I, Skip Dodge on behalf of the team, thank each and everyone of you for the prayers.

Joe Wisler and Alan Snell wondering if they will make it through immigration.

Posted by Skip Dodge

Chad Anderson Saves the Day

2006-10-26T20:44:00.000-05:00

CHAD ANDERSON (frenchy) SAVES THE DAY

We left Cincinnati at 7:30pm on a 777.

The flight was 7 hours long……way too long if you ask us, unfortunately that was short leg of the flight. Here Skip Dodge is preparing blog articles while flying.

We landed in Paris, France at 9:34am on Thursday, October 26, 2006

We all made it through security with just a couple of minor searches............PRAISE THE LORD!!! Chad’s “French” came in handy once again as he helped Bud Vanderbutts through security. They stopped Bud for his insulin needles. Thanks to Chad, Bud was able to keep his insulin needles. While the "security check" with Bud, Chad shared our mission trip with the stewardess and she thought it was pretty awesome. She wanted to come along with us!

Posted by Skip Dodge

Cincinnati Airport

2006-10-24T18:29:00.000-05:00

Here's the crew at the Cincinnati Airport. We made it to Cincinnatti with no problems. We found our gate and plane and are waiting for 7pm to come to board the plane. Sorry, not sure why the pictures aren't clear as previously. Will try to fix that as we go.

Bud Vanderbutts, Alan Snell, Terry Akins

Skip Dodge updating the blog

Nancy and David Leist and Pam Murphy having some ice cream.

South Bend Regional Airport

2006-10-24T18:28:00.000-05:00

Wednesday, October 25, 2006

We made it to South Bend Regional Airport and they didn't tow our empty shuttle bus away as we all walked into the airport. We have all made it through the security and Fred still has his pants on.........his belt had too much metal just to walk through the security scan with it on.

Team Picture!

Due to a mis-placed passport Chad Simpson so far is unable to join us. We are praying a miracle that it be found as soon as possible.

Thank you again for your prayers.

Posted by Skip Dodge

Cape Hotel.......Home away from Home

2006-10-17T14:54:00.000-05:00

Hotel Cape Residency

This is where the team will be staying while in Kanyakumari, India.

You can experience the finest flavour of legendary Malabari Hospitality at Hotel Cape Residency. Elegant rooms, comprehensive conference hall, multicuisine restaurant, coffee shop, permit room and a nice warm feeling when you finally checkout.

FACILITIES:
Akshaya
The Multicuisine Restaurant. A journey into the menu unveils such delectable culinary gems. The best reason of dining at akshaya is its cuisine, which is unrestricted by boundaries and incorporates a fusion of diverse tastes and culture.

Bahaar: A/C Restaurant
Fresh ingredients and herbs mixed and matched to give familiar dishes new and exciting flavours presented in exceptionally creative ways.

Ecstasy Bar
Lifts your spirits up. It gives you a complete well stocked bat. Sip a cocktail.

Mela: The Meeting Place
The most suitable place for Conference and banquets.

OTHER FACILITIES:

Courtesy Coach
Doctor on call
Direct calling facility with STD and ISD
Travel Desk
Internet facility
Inhouse laundry
Exclusive Vegetarian Restaurant
Multi cuisine Air conditioned Restaurant
Air conditioned Conference Hall
Well Stocked bar
Checkout time 12 Noon
Ayurvedic Treatment Centre managed by ‘Shivapriya’ world renowned in Ayurvedic treatment.
Enchanting Elephant Rides on our own Elephant and much more

NEW TSA liquid ban adjustments

2006-10-15T19:38:00.000-05:00

***NEW*** TSA liquid ban adjustments

Please be aware of the New TSA travel liquid ban adjustments.

For Carry-On:
- Must be a 1 qt. clear ziploc bag
- Items in the ziploc have can not be larger than 3 oz. containers

For Checked Luggage:
- you can take whatever you would like

For Drinks:
- If drinks are purchased outside the security screening area they must be disposed of before going through security.
- If drinks are purchased after going through security screnning areas they may be taken on the plane.

*everything is subject to change at TSA's decision at time of check-in and security points.

For more information please visit the TSA website at the following links.
www.tsa.gov/press/happenings/9-25_updated_passenger_guidance.shtm

www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm#3

Please contact Skip Dodge at sdodge@gccwired.com if you have any questions. Thank you! - Skip Dodge

Wednesday, October 25, 2006 Meeting Time

2006-10-12T07:12:00.000-05:00

October India Mission Team!

Please meet at GCC in the auditorium in the north end 11am on Wednesday, October 25, 2006. This will give us time for final preparations and a time of prayer. Family and Friends are welcome to join us. We will leave GCC at 11:45am

Please remember to have someone available to pick you up at the South Bend Regional Airport on Saturday, November 4, 2006. We arrive in at 6:00pm.

Please contact Dan Blacketor blacketor@aol.com or Skip Dodge sdodge@gccwired.com if you have any questions.

Thank you!

New Community, Thursday, October 19, 2006

2006-10-03T18:38:00.000-05:00

Who: GCC October India Team, family, and significant others
What: New Community
Where: Granger Community Church
When: Thursday, October 19. 2006
Time: 6:45pm
Next Step: Please meet the team in Skylight by the Atrium at 6:45pm
*Please wear your Red GCC India Team Polo Shirt

Team Gathering at Dan Blacketor's House

2006-09-12T05:53:00.000-05:00

TEAM GATHERING AT DAN BLACKETOR'S HOUSE

Teri and Alan Snell; Melissa Parish, Rich

Who: GCC India Teams, family members, spouses, significant others
What : Team Gathering at Dan Blacketor's House
Where: Dan Blacketor's House
59701 Myrtle Road
South Bend, IN 46614
When: Sunday, October 15, 2006
Time: 3:00pm - 7:00pm - Come and go as you would like
Why: Team Building
What to Bring: side dish or dessert; India Mission Trip pictures and stories to share

Next Step: Just Show Up!Brian Young, Shelly Jackson, Mike Worden

Joe Wisler, Teri Snell, Don Bader, Alan Snell

Chad Anderson and Dan Blacketor

Dan Blacketor

Shannon Papp, Chad Simpson

Flight Itinerary

2006-09-06T19:15:00.000-05:00

Departure to Kanyakumari, India

Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Depart from South Bend - 2:50pm
Arrive in Cincinnati - 4:00pm

Depart from Cincinnati - 7:25pm
Arrive in Paris, France - 9:20am (Thursday, October 26, 2006)

Thursday, October 26, 2006
Depart from Paris - 11:00am
Arrive in Chennai, India - 12:45am (Friday, October 27, 2006)

Friday, October 27, 2006
Spend the night in the YWCA in Chennai, India

Depart from Chennai, India - 2:45pm
Arrive in Trivandrum, India - 4:00pm

Final Destination: Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, India

Return Departure to United States
Friday, November 3, 2006
Depart from Trivandrum, India - 1:35pm
Arrive in Bombay, India - 3:35pm

Hang out in Bombay until time to return to the airport for final departure from India.

Saturday, November 4, 2006
Depart from Bombay, India - 12:10am
Arrive in JFK, New York - 6:00am

Depart from JFK, New York - 1:30pm
Arrive in Cincinnati - 3:34pm

Depart from Cincinnati - 5:00pm
Arrive in South Bend - 6:00pm

*NOTE: Please make sure you have transportation to pick you up at the South Bend Regional Airport at 6pm on Saturday, November 4, 2006. There will be NO transportation back to the church. Please notify Skip Dodge if you have questions. Thank you!

What to Bring

2006-08-27T16:22:00.000-05:00

**REGARDING LIQUID ITEMS ON THE PLANE PLEASE STAY IN CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION. THANK YOU!**

Suitcase size recommendation: 21 Inch
Backpack size recommendation: "Fanny Pack, Daypack or Backpack

Travel:
The rule for travel is as follows:
- Comfort: Wear loose clothing that will provide you with the maximum comfort for sitting (still) for long periods. Avoid things with belts or constrictions as your lmbs will expand and contract with long periods of sitting, atmospheric changes, etc
- Warmth: Airplanes and airports are notoriously cold. India, however, is notoriously hot. So plan to have at least one layer of clothing that is easy to put on and/or remove to adjust with the variation.
- Clean: Wear something that won't look dirty easily....even when it is. It's hard to travel for 36 hours on planes, trains and automobiles without spilling things on yourself, sweating, sitting or walking through things, or in general just having things be gross by the time you arrive. Wearing crispy whie clothing that broadcasts spills easily, therefore, or anything that falls in that same category, is not recommended.
- Bring plenty of books, magazines and other distractions, and bring enough for both legs of the journey. Hard cre people who "only bring their Bible" are usually on the brink of insanity by the time they get back home:-)

Worksite for Women:
- "Disposible" T-shirts - no V neck, scoop neck, off the shoulder or tank tops
- Punjab
- Kakhis/Dockers
- Jeans
- Construction Apron
- No Shorts

Worksite for Men:
- "Disposible" T-shirts - no V neck or tank-tops
- Kakhis/Dockers
- Jeans
- Shorts

Work Site Items:
- Work gloves

General:
- Breatheable, comfortable socks. Athletic socks (such as Thorlo) are great if you have them.
- Don't skimp on underwear unless you're a masochist

Evening Wear:
- Punjab (purchase in country for about $5/outfit)
- Kakhis/Dockers
- Nice shirt (men: with collar, preferably long-sleeved, button-down)
- Skirt/Sari/Punjab for Women
- 1 set of nice clothing (i.e. for women: one long skirt and blouse, for me: one time for "just in case" that will go with your "nice shirt" mentioned above.)

Shoes:
- Tennis Shoes (for travel or evening)
- Workboots or Trailboots (for worksite)
Note: Make sure all shoes are easy to get in and out of

Bathroom Items:
- Toliet Paper (Charmin "travel rolls" are great!)
- Kleenex (travel size)
- Soap/Shampoo (travel size)
- Wet wipes (anti-bacterial are best)
- Anti-bacterial gel (several small containers are better than one giant one)
- Hairbrush/Comb
- If you wear glasses, make sure you have a spare pair
- If you wear contacts, make sure you bring a spare pair, plus lots of supplies (saline, etc)
- Deoderant - Gel or White
- Toothbrush/Toothpaste
- Items for Women
- 1 small/med sized towel

Food Item:
- Beef Jerky
- Peanuts
- Trail Mix
- Water
- Granola
- Gaterade Powder
- Salt Tablets/Electrolytes/Table salt
- Multi-Vitamin (Flintstones are fine)

Other Items:
- Wide brim hat
- Sunglasses - but don't bring your Oakleys....bring something that can get smashed, scratched, smeared and sat upon
- Bandana
- Bible/Pen/Paper
- Trashbags - or "Martins" bags
- Ziploc bags - the larger the better
- Fanny Pack or "day pack" backpack
- Ear plugs
- Digital or other camera along with spare film, cards, batteries, or whatever you need to operate it
- 2 prong power adapter for India
- Power converter
- Scrub brush
- Laundry bar soap
- Batter operated alarm clock
- A small travel journal to record thoughts, ideas and impressions

Money:
- You'll probably want between $100-200 of personal spending money. The exchange rate is about $1=40 Rupees. Prices vary radically depeding on what you're buying and where, but most people find that $100-200 is ample for what one person can bring home.
- Most people recommend a "money belt"of some sort that you can keep on your person. The canvas "under the shirt pouch" style is popular.
- Whatever you do, try to keep your money from being all in the same place. Spread it out....just don't forget where you put it:-)

Medical Items:
- Anti-malarial medication
- Advil/IB Profin/Tylenol
- Hydrogen Peroxide
- Rubbing Alcohol
- Q-tips (travel size)
- Triple Antibiotic Ointment
- Bandaids
- Anti-gas (Gas-X)
- Anti-nausea (Pepto)
- Anti-diarhea (Immodium AD)
- Activated Charoal (you don't HAVE to bring this.....just a suggestion)
- "No Jet Lat" tablets (Optional). You can find them at drugstore.com
- Sunblock (highest SPF you can find, and MAKE SURE IT'S WATERPROOF OR "SPORT" VARIANT)
- Aloe or sunburn treatment gel
- Cortaid topical steriodal/anti-itch cream (this is particularly important if you have sensitivity to bug bites)
- Benadryl (tablets are best)
- Sleep aid (such as Dramamine or Tylenol PM)
- Prescription Allergy medications (if you take them regularly here in the US)
- Mosquito and Insect Repellant

**This is not a definitive....pack for YOU...and stay tuned as we will probably continue to add things along the way.

Team Training #6 - Ready for some fun?!?!

2006-08-08T13:08:00.000-05:00

India Team Training #6 was on Monday, August 7, 2006.

Scott Crouch came and led the team in a "Team Building" exercise. Here the teams had to get together and figure out how they were going to send each team member through the small areas of lights and rope without touching any part of it. Teams started out with 100 points and 10 points were deducted when a person would touch any of the ropes or lights.

Here Les Rassi is getting pulled through by his team mates. Way to go Team! This team ended up with all 100 points when they got done. Congratulations Team!

Here Dan Blacketor is about to get pulled through by his teammates. 1-2-3 ready.....PULL!!!

Later Dave Cherrone went over some basic first aid and CPR.

Janet Maggert is practicing CPR.

Sending off the GCC August 2006 India Team

2006-07-28T07:10:00.000-05:00

Sending off the GCC August 2006 India Team

Please meet at Granger Community Church on Sunday, August 13, 2006 at 10:45am for a time of prayer to send of the August India Team. Please meet either at the Kiosk in the Atrium or in the Conference Room.

Cookout at Snell's

2006-07-12T13:31:00.000-05:00

The October 2006 India team had a cookout at Alan Snell's house. Alan invited his friends Ranga and Chantal come and share about Pondicherry India where Ranga was from.

Bombay Bombing

2006-07-11T12:44:00.000-05:00

Hey, guys! If you have seen the news in the last hour or so, you have probably heard about the 7 commuter trains in Bombay that were attacked by terrorists. In addition, if you have seen the footage or read the reports, you have probably begun to ask yourself, "So... are we still going?" And if you've allowed yourself to go one step further than that, you've probably asked, "do i still WANT to go?" Well, in light of that, please let me outline a few things:

First, you need to know that despite the general perception :-) we are not looking to be kamikaze missionaries. We are not "just looking" for trouble. We gather no delight in sending our people to places where the risk factor is unnecessary or high just so that we can have cool stories to tell or look like we laugh in the face of danger. In my experience, that's not really bravery anyway; it's just most often times foolishness.

So here's the deal. If there is reasonable suspicion that you would be in danger before leaving, or if the situation "heats up" in the regions where you will be travelling, we will simply pull the plug. Period. We will reschedule, divert support finances, reconfigure logistics, or do whatever is necessary to ensure that your safety is absolutely the highest priority, and we will do so without any reservation whatsoever.

Second, the above is also true once you arrive in-country. If, for whatever reason, we or our TBL partners begin to suspect that you are anything other than 100% safe, we will again simply pull the plug. We will have you on an airplane (first choice) in less than 24 hours, or residing comfortably in the US Consulate in Chennai in that same amount of time or less. Our TBL friends are better than the best bodyguards you can buy, and have always been absolutely A-grade in keeping us out of harm's way. If something should erupt that required immediate extraction, know that we will simply put those plans into play and have you on your way home.

Third, please note that Tamilnadu seldom sees this type of terrorist activity. The reason why the north tends to see it more than the south is that there are much higher concentrations of fanatical/fundamentalist Muslims, Buddhists and Hindus who believe that violence is the only way to achieve their ends, and so these types of actions are not uncommon there. In the south, however, pretty much everyone is a Hindu, and lives relatively at peace with one another. That's not to say that Tamilnadu doesn't have it's own set of problems, but rather just that they don't tend to struggle with religious tension among fanatical and violent groups the way that the north does. Also, it looks like at this point that the people responsible for the blasts may have been associated with Kashmir guerillas. Kashmir is supposedly one of the most beautiful places on the planet. It is the location of the mythical fortress of Shangri-La and is the source of much of the beauty and mythology in many southeast asian cultures. For the last few decades, however, it has struggled for independence from India, and because of it's rich sources for natural and other resources, India has not "let it go". As a result, Kashmir militant rebels pretty much have turned the lush countryside into a warzone, and what is arguably one of the most inviting places on earth has become a place that no one (not even foreign CNN correspondents) who values their life will visit. The blast in Bombay is most likely just an extension of this conflict, and Bombay was probably selected because, like most militant extremists, the goal is visibility, and Bombay is the "western corporate" center for industry (particularly technology) in India. By bombing Bombay, they acquire the attention of the international media as well as wealthy Western corporations, and thus think that they further their agendas. Such was probably not targetted toward westerners, however, nor was it most likely planned by Al-Queda or related anti-American groups. In fact, most likely quite the opposite. I actually spoke with a Kashmiran shop owner in Chennai last time who invited me to his home. I smiled and said, "Uh.. isn't that kind of dangerous?" He just laughed and said, "Only if you're in the Indian army! Actually, we LOVE Americans!"

Fourth, at this point, we do not believe that there is a compelling enough reason to cancel either team (August or Oct/Nov). We are planning on moving forward just as we have been. That said, if you are uncomfortable with continuing to proceed, or believe that your safety is in question or in danger in any fashion and do not wish to continue as part of your current team, please let us know asap and we will plan accordingly.

Finally, please note that this is simply another indicator as to the reason why we are going in the first place. India despretely needs the love of God and people to bring it to them. Poverty, disease, war and oppression of a variety of sorts have ripped the people to shreds for more than six millenia, and only the light of Christ can bring the Kingdom that God intended from "Unga to Inga" in that place. Please remember to pray that God would supernaturally engineer this tragedy to opening doors for His people to shine amidst the tragedy and be the people of God when there appears to be no hope left among the masses.

Shinken!

-samurai jack

Team Training #4

2006-06-14T11:33:00.000-05:00

Team Training #4

The October and August India teams met at the "Taj" in Mishawaka and experienced a taste of Indian food along with getting to eat with their hands. Jack showed the team how to eat with their hands and shared what each item was. The teams had a lot of fun experiencing the Indian Culture when eating.

We Must Go

2006-05-26T09:49:00.000-05:00

As we continue to prepare for India this song is just another reminder of how we are doing exactly what God has called us to do.

" God of Justice" - by Tim Hughes

Click here to listen to it.

God of Justice, Saviour to all
Came to rescue the weak and the poor
Chose to serve and not be served
Jesus, You have called us
Freely we’ve received
Now freely we will give

We must go
Live to feed the hungry
Stand beside the broken
We must go
Stepping forward
Keep us from just singing
Move us into action
We must go

To act justly everyday
Loving mercy in everyway
Walking humbly before You God
You have shown us, what You require
Freely we’ve received
Now freely we will give

We must go
Live to feed the hungry
Stand beside the broken
We must go

Fill us up and send us out
Fill us up and send us out
Fill us up and send us out Lord

Writing a Support Letter

2006-05-24T08:02:00.000-05:00

A few things to keep in mind when writing a support letter

1. ) If Contributors want their contributions to be tax-deductible, please have them complete the tax-deductible form that was attached to the e-mail that was sent to you. As well as have them write your name in the "memo" section of the check.

2.) Please do not have the Contributors drop the contributions in the offering, but rather please have contributions mailed to Granger Community Church / Re: India Mission's Trips / 630 E. University Dr. / Granger, IN / 46530 or drop off contributions in Jack's box in the work room or have contributions mailed to you and then can you can place them in Jack's box.

3.) Please feel free to add to the blog website http://gccindiaoctober2006.blogspot.com/ in your letter for your family, friends, and contributors to keep track as we go. This is our Blog website which we will be utilizing for the October 2006 India trip with relevant information. Please feel free to add comments or ask questions.

Team Training #2

2006-05-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

Went over team assignments, recommended vaccinations, and other pertinent information. The meeting was held outside due to it being so nice. The weather was perfect!

Vaccinations and Immunizations

2006-05-09T06:48:00.000-05:00

VACCINATION AND SHOT INFORMATION

-Tetanus- $8 (every 5 years)

-Polio- $37 (one dose as an adult)

-Twinrix (Hep A and B)- 3 shot series - $50 for each shot. (total of $150) (Once the series is complete, good for life)

-MMR- $50 (need two shots total over lifetime or has had the measles)

-Typhoid- $58 (every 2 years)

-Malaria – Check with your Physician first- *Note: Do not take Lariam or Metholoquim

We have, in the past, recommended Doxycyline as the anti-Malarial for India teams. Doxy is a cheap, good, general antibiotic with good anti-Malarial capabilities. The anti-biotic is typically “intestinal”, and therefore safeguards against bacterial nasties that one may accidentally consume while on the field. Here’s the problem: Doxy has had tendencies to irritate people’s stomach on the field, and also has some issues with sun/skin sensitivity. People who take Doxy on the field often have to abandon it due to other reasons (i.e. nausea, severe sunburn, etc), and so end up with limited benefit from the drug.

Recently, we have switched to recommending the combined drugs of Malarone and Cipro. Malarone is an anti-Malarial that is a little more expensive than the Doxy, but does not have the abdominal side-effects or skin sensitivity issues. Cipro is a general antibiotic that has great anti-bacterial qualities (just like Doxy), but does not have the abdominal or skin-sensitivity issues. Now, combined, they amount to a pretty penny, but seem to be a good combination without the downsides of Doxy.

You will need to have your physician prescribe the Malaria medicine for you as the Health Dept will not be able to do so.

Vaccinations are administered by the St. Joe County Health Department.
Please check out cdc.gov if you would like further information.

Vaccination Dates at GCC

Shot Series #1: Thursday, July 6, 2006
Shot Series #2: Thursday, August 3, 2006
Location: Meeting Room (by Ginny Lawley’s Office)

Next Step:
To ensure there are enough vaccinations please e-mail Skip Dodge sdodge@gccwired.com which vaccinations you will need by May 31, 2006. Payment can be made at the time the vaccination has been received.

Team Timeline

2006-03-09T15:13:00.000-05:00

Training #1: Support Raising Basics
Date: Monday, April 10, 6 – 8:30 pm, Jungle Room at GCC

Training #2: Trip Specifics Basics
Date: Monday, May 8, 6 – 8:30 pm, Jungle Room at GCC

VISA Applications Due Monday, May 8, 2006

Training #3: Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity (part 1)
Date: Monday, June 5, 6 – 8:30 pm, Jungle Room at GCC

½ Support Due – Friday, June 30, 2006

Airline Tickets Purchased – Saturday, July 1, 2006

Shot Series #1 - Thursday, July 6, 2006 - 6PM in the Meeting Room (by Ginny Lawley's Desk)

Training #4: Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity (part 2)
Date: Monday, July 10

6 – 7 pm, “The Taj” Indian Restaurant

7 – 8:30 pm, Jungle Room at GCC

Training #5: India for a Day (Chicago)
Date: Saturday, July 22nd, 7 am – 7 pm, Chicago

Shot Series #2 - Thursday, August 3, 2006 - 6PM in the Meeting Room (by Ginny Lawley's Desk)

Training #6: Prep and Packing
Date: Monday, August 7, 6 – 8:30 pm, Jungle Room at GCC

Training #7: India Construction Basics (part 1)
Date: Monday, September 11, 6 – 8:30 pm, Jungle Room at GCC

Training #8: India Construction Basics (part 2)
Date: Monday, October 9, 6 – 8:30 pm, Jungle Room at GCC

Full Support Due – Sunday, October 15, 2006

Team Binders Ready – Friday, October 20, 2006

Shuttles Arranged – Friday, October 20, 2006

Team Leaves for India – Thursday, October 26, 2006

Please note that these training sessions are mandatory and that your attendance is required.

GCC Applications Due

2006-02-22T15:18:00.000-05:00

GCC Applications for the JCWP 2006 are due to Jack's box by Tuesday, February 28, 2006.

Welcome!

2006-01-09T08:04:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the Granger Community Church JCWP 2006 India Team Blog.

Below are the dates set for the October/November 2006 India Trip. Thursday, October 26 - November 5, 2006. Please check back on this blog for further updates as it will have informative information regarding meetings, trainings, and other pertinent information.