Dear AMA family,
Thanks to each of you who have contributed in some way to the AMA project and search. In way of information there are two families, Celso's and another couple who Bob and Neiba had been giving $250 each a month as a stipend. Celso did the flight scheduling and took care of all the radio communication and flight following. Presently he is still involved in the search but has not been able to find another job.
Danny is keeping up the grounds and the airstrip mowed--all with a push mower as the riding one was in need of repairs. Irdene (my husband) had gotten the parts and they'd been sent down, but Bob had not received them yet. So, if you feel led to continue helping the AMA project please send donations for these families to:
Gospel Ministries International
P O Box 506
Collegedale, TN 37315
Please include a separate note stating the money is for AMA Venezuela. These families are dedicated to continuing the mission work.
Bob Edwards is presently in Venezuela and has had meetings with people at the US embassy, those coordinating the search from Civil Protection, and Celso. Hopefully they can get a pilot and plane to take him, Celso, Dr. Pedro, and others out to Karum to spend some days searching in the jungle where it has been determined the highest probability zone. It is merely an educated guess. Again I have to say, only God knows and we continue to trust Him. I asked Mr. Edwards when they were going to quit searching and his answer was, "We will continue as long as God opens doors." A documentary film is in the plans about Bob Norton's aviation work as well as the search. More on that later.
While my mother was in Venezuela she was able to talk to many of the people who knew and loved Bob and Neiba. They are sorely missed. It meant something to these people that Bob's mother made the trip to visit with them. David and Becky Gates were there the following week to visit and had a meeting to decide on members for the AMA board so there can be people to organize and carry on the work.
My mother, Nytta Norton, was also able to talk with the airplane mechanic in Ciudad Bolivar who is in charge of repairs of the other Cessna 182. Funds are needed for an engine and propeller. This is God's airplane and our family would like to see it put back into His service helping people. An account has been set up at Outpost Centers to handle donations for the airplane repair as well as for the search. Enclose a note stating what the funds are for and send to:
Outpost Centers Inc.
5340 Layton Lane,
Apison, TN 37302
Most of all please continue to uphold the people Nortons served in Venezuela in prayer and that many more will be added to God's kingdom. Also remember Bob Edwards this week.
A reminder to those of you who haven't yet sent me a memory or story you have of your experience with Bob and Neiba please do so now if you wish. I am putting together a sharing letter which I will be sending to all of you in the near future.
Appreciate your love, support, and prayers. "Your labor is not in vain in the Lord."
Barbara Norton Kay