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Ah, Sweet (short) February! The month of "Love". Do you conjure up visions of chocolate hearts and long stemmed roses? Or maybe it's more of that little tease of spring we sometimes get this time of year (usually just before that March blizzard!). Many of our SOWER family are enjoying their time at the "Sun-Belt" projects (February is traditionally our "most worked" month), but I know that many are still at home, taking care of the business at hand. I think that during this Love Month it's always good to remember that the Love of our Savior is a VERB and not a noun. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son" for you and for me. May each of you find the grace and strength to keep sharing His LOVE in the days ahead.
Oh, How He Loves you and Me!
Stephanie Conrad, #2509
on behalf of the SOWER Board of Trustees
SOWER Ministry
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Above and Beyond
This past November, as Janet and I were finishing up our project at Lake Placid Conference Center (FL-341), I was reminded of a time at this project when our group seemed to go above and beyond what was expected of us. I'm sure that has happened to you also! We were here in 2007 and as the GLs we met with Anthony Haney, our project host. He gave us a nice long list of jobs, everything from organizing the shop and clearing an area called the 'junkyard' to remodeling the snack shop located on the beach. As Anthony left that first meeting he shared a project that was on his heart, but not on the list. The camp's bell tower was in a state of disrepair and was a potential disaster waiting to happen. He hadn't included it on the list because he wasn't sure if we SOWERs (or any other group) would be able to do the repair. As I met with our group, we briefly discussed the bell tower, but it certainly went to the back burner as we tackled the list of jobs that were actually ON the list.
By the end of the second week, the two guys who had been working on the snack shop came to me with a request. Since they were essentially finished with that task, could they take a stab at the bell tower? They had been discussing it as they worked on the snack shop and thought they had figured out a plan to do the re-build. Anthony gave his wholehearted approval and they began the process. By the end, they had even managed to fabricate a new cross out of some scrap aluminum that had recently been uncovered by the guys working through the 'junkyard'. It was an inspiring end to a great project.
Fast forward to 2015, and our November project at Lake Placid. As we sit in our rig, we have a view of that bell tower, still standing strong after all these years. And we remember with great fondness the folks that worked together to make that happen. When you work with people a certain bond forms, and you become like family. Sometimes you get to work with them again, and sometimes not. Of that particular group of 'family' I know of two that are home with the Lord, and most have retired from doing SOWER projects. We are blessed to have been able to work with so many - friends from many years ago, and new friends that we make at each project. I would like to say "thank you" to all of the SOWERS for the work that you have done and will do. Sometimes it isn't glamorous and sometimes it may even seem thankless, but as long as we do it 'as unto the Lord', we are working to expand His Kingdom.
Emory & Janet Rockafellow (2559)
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Special Need Alert
Every now and again one of our partner ministries alerts us to a special (and sometimes critical) need. Here is a recent request from Sandy Cove Ministries (MD-18) located on the Chesapeake Bay in Northeast, Maryland.
We are looking for help with the board by board replacement of the current stairs to our marina. This will involve basic framing and deck building carpentry. Sandy Cove's campground is open starting in April, but as we are open year round and have a lot of guests staying in our lodge, I am sure if any volunteers want to come sooner we can offer optional lodging if needed. Thank you!
Contact the SOWER office to sign up for regular SOWER slots, or Ann Gilgenast at Sandy Cove to make other arrangements.
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First Fruits
 I was thinking this past week during our devotion time when our GL thanked God for all the prayers and devotions going on that morning by SOWERs......... Almost 100 people (49 couples counting office personnel accounted for during the month of December, probably slowest month of the year for productivity) participating in prayer and Bible devotions for 1.5 hours (3 different time zones), 4 days per week, 3 weeks per month, 12 months per year. That is approximately 216 hours of God time just from SOWERs (based on December stats) per year. Every other month of the year stats would make for a bigger differential. I am so glad to be a part of the Family of God thru SOWERing. No wonder the Devil fights like he does while we are mechanically challenged and are faced with health/family issues. He is not happy that we give God the first fruits of our day. Let's keep on keeping on. We can do this! Thank you, Gail Fieler #3187.
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Care Center on the grow again! 
A recent article in the Lake Wales News (FL) highlighted the recent growth of the Lake Wales Care Center (FL-157) and mentioned the faithful work of the SOWER Ministry volunteers who have come every year since 1989! Check out the complete article HERE! Submitted by John & Rosie Stoner (#2721)
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LDO - Ladies' Day Out
It's never required, and it doesn't always happen, but when SOWER ladies get together for a morning or afternoon outing, a good time is had by all!
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At Life for Youth Camp in Vero Beach, FL-2 we had a Ladies' Outing to the many thrift shops that Vero Beach is known for. But notice our transportation. Janet Rockafellow was wiling to drive us in style (Cathy Richmond, Jo Ann Kotlarczyk, Reta Shoup, Bobbeth Hawkins, Karen Swanner, Barb Eitze). We turned heads as we piled out of the truck.
Cathy Richmond 2793
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On the other side of the country (Jordan Outreach, CA-482) these ladies were enjoying a beautiful lunch out at Shields Dates. (L-R) Cheryl Curtis, Kim Trivilino, Connie Nicholas, & Selma Janzen
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Trustee Nominations
By now everyone should have received their 2016 SOWER Trustee Nomination Forms. Please be praying about who you might like to nominate. Per our Constitution -
The candidates must be SOWERS in good standing and have had substantial experience in the SOWER Ministry for at least two (2) years.
Don't forget to check with your nominee to secure their permission! Feel free to contact any of the current Trustees if you'd like more information about what is involved.
All nominations must be postmarked by
March 15th
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Tell of all His wonders
We were traveling up I-55 north of Memphis pulling our 5th wheel, when suddenly there was a puff of smoke from our truck, and the engine died.
As I pulled to the side of the road, I noticed another truck pulling off right behind us. The man in the truck "just happened" to deliver RVs for a living. When we failed to get the truck started, I called for a tow truck.
I rode along as our truck was towed to a Chevy dealer. The stranger offered to follow with our 5th wheel. Rita has never quite forgiven me for sending her, our home, and everything we owned off with a perfect stranger.
Even though he had a big earring and a pony tail, I think he was an angel, for he did follow and even stayed with us until the truck was fixed, in case we needed to be towed to a campground.
We hear so many similar stories from fellow SOWERs. Someone comes along to help us at just the right time. We wonder if they were humans or angels, since we recognize God's hand of protection and provision. In His great love, He allows sickness and troubles partly to keep us dependent on Him.
Just a reminder, we are compiling a book of SOWER stories. Send me your stories of divine appointments, protection, provision, angelic visits, funny stories and unique things you have been asked to do at Sower projects.
Not a writer? We are here to help. All proceeds from the sales of the the book will go to the SOWER ministry.
Thank you!
Ron
Ron Heinecke
14763 CR 424, #222
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Recently seen on the SOWER Facebook Group Page
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 Have you stopped by lately? Make sure you've "checked" the Notification box to receive current posts, and PLEASE post pictures and stories from YOUR projects!
And if you're a member of Facebook, but haven't joined the SOWER Group, click on the icon to join the family!
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Thank you, Karen Edge for sharing this great photo of some our valued SOWER Alumni!
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While you're on Facebook, don't forget to check out your favorite projects. Many of our project locations have a Facebook page and it's a great way to stay up to date on the places you love to serve!
If you haven't "LIKED" the SOWER Facebook Page head over there too! It's a great way to spread the word about our ministry.
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Dear Sam and Sally
Dear Sam and Sally,
I have a couple of questions for you.
1-Can you belong to SOWERs and another RV Ministry Group at the same time?
2-If so, can you serve at a SOWER project (SP) under the umbrella of the other ministry during a scheduled SP month?
Example #1-We know of a SOWER couple who belonged to two RV ministry groups, SOWERs plus one other group. Long story, but they said they were always open about it during the process of joining the second ministry and working their projects. Eventually, the second RV ministry asked the couple to choose one or the other ministry. They chose Sowers and continue to serve and only belong to Sowers now.
Example #2-Another couple who we have not met but have heard about through a different RV Ministry Group (which they also belong to) will serve at a SP during a SP month, but not signed up as a Sower. They are signed up under the other RV Ministry.
We read (mostly;) the B, C, & MG. Does 'not bypassing regular Sower sign up' process apply?
We're not super rule oriented and feel these things are all in the Lord's hands, but just curious.
Dear Curious,
Thanks for asking about this, as it can be somewhat confusing. SOWERS has never restricted our members from being part of multiple volunteer organizations. We are thankful that many ministries are being helped, regardless of what 'team' the volunteers are a part of. Many of our partner ministries are blessed to have volunteers from several different (though similar to SOWERS) organizations. Being on a project as part of a different volunteer organization while SOWERS are also working is not considered "bypassing the regular SOWER sign-up". It is merely choosing to serve with a different ministry. "Bypassing the regular SOWER sign-up" refers to when an active SOWER contacts a ministry (project) directly and makes arrangements to go there during a scheduled SOWER month. They would then be considered "go[ing] on a project as an "Independent"" and that would be contrary to the SOWER guidelines. However, serving at one of our partner ministries, at the invitation of the host, during non-SOWER months is never a problem.
I hope that helps to clear up the confusion. If you have other concerns, please don't hesitate to contact a Board member.
Serving our Savior,
Sam & Sally
Do you have a question about SOWER policy or etiquette? Sam and Sally would love to hear from you! Contact them at -samandsally@sowerministry.org.
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Rally Information
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Whether you're an Alumni, a Seasoned Sower or New to the Family, there's nothing like a Sower Rally to connect with friends old and new and get recharged about the ministry. If you live in close proximity to a SOWER project, let them know you're around! There are often impromptu gatherings of SOWERS happening all around the country all year long! Whether you're camping together or just meeting for a meal at a local restaurant, a SOWER Gathering is always a blessing!
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2016 Florida Rally
Florida Baptist Encampment - FL-143
February 29 - March 3
Contact Ruth Stoll (#2980) to secure your spot!
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All of us come to the table with different talents and ideas. Some of these ideas are very useful on our projects and we all learn new and different ways to do tasks or use new products. This new feature will highlight these ideas and/or products. The tips would not be limited to maintenance and construction ideas, but can cover all the different facets of being a SOWER - construction, cleaning, painting, landscaping, etc. Submissions should be no longer that 250 words and the Sower submitting the tip will need to agree to use their name and contact information. Bill Myers (3190) has offered to review and edit the submissions.
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SOWING TIPS
After last month's first column, I already have to issue a correction! Concerning the tip about keeping your paint pan clean, I said to use a 30 gallon garbage bag. It was pointed out to me by another sower that that is an awfully big bag and he was right. I meant to say use a 13 gallon garbage bag. However, if you have a REALLY BIG PAINT PAN, go ahead and use the 30 gallon trash bag!
This month's tip uses a product we are all familiar with, white vinegar. I'm sure we have all used white vinegar to run through our coffee pots or dishwashers periodically to keep them clean and operating properly. Well this month's tip use vinegar for another cleaning application.
Many a crusty bathroom faucets ago, another lady shared a revolutionary way to get that cement hard, built up lime/calcium crust off sinks/faucets while sparing the elbow grease part! Further, you don't damage the faucet or sink with steel wool or other tools.
It's very simple but you need 24 hours to complete the process. Find some rags and white vinegar (check the camp kitchen), submerge rags until they are soaking wet with vinegar, place the rags on the crusty faucets pushing them snugly against all the worst areas, wrap rag up around the faucet, pour a little more vinegar on top, and let it soak overnight. TA DA - the next day you will easily wipe away the now very soft crust build up! I guess I still have a thing or two I can learn from my sisters in Christ (and cleaning buckets-ha!)
This tip was submitted by Betsy McClintick 3213. Contact her at
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Do you have a great SOWER Tip? Submissions for this feature can be sent to Bill Myers for consideration - rvmyers@reagan.com
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Spreading the Word
Heading EAST this summer?
We've signed up to go to the
and will have a SOWER booth in their ROW section.
This is a wonderful opportunity to share our ministry, but we will need help! We'll have more information in the months to come, but for right now we hope you'll keep this opportunity in your prayers. We've had one couple volunteer, but we still need more help! Give us a call if you have any questions!
Thanks!
620-653-4703
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On the lighter side....
Q--Do you know why it's taking sooooo long for the Lord to get a place prepared in Heaven for us SOWERs??
A--Because of the SOWERs that have gone on before us--by the time they get done with devotionals, take their 1/2 hour breaks, 1 hour lunches, 3 day week ends and 1 week off--they are only getting in a 6 hour day and 12 days a month!!!
Submitted by Gary & Pat Ormiston (#3099)
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Heading through Texas?
Looking for a stop-over spot in Texas?
Don't forget the SOWER Office has 5 beautiful, paved, full hook-up sites that are available for our use. The first two nights are free, and then it's $10.00/night. If you'd like to hang around for a bit, it's $50.00/week or $150 for a month. Just enough to cover utilities!
Even if you can't stay for a couple of nights, the office folks would LOVE to have you stop in to say hello! A fresh pot of coffee is only minutes away from your arrival!
Lindale is right off Interstate 20, about 90 miles east of Dallas. Look for the directions on the first page of the Sowergram.
Psst- The SOWER Office is also a SOWER project (TX-361)in April! There were still a couple of openings - check the PLS for more information
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Clicking on the
heart above will take you to the Members Only Page, the February/March Sowergram and the latest updates to our Project Listings (updated weekly).
Feel free to contact the office (M-Th) if you have any questions - they're always happy to help!
903-882-8070
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Just the Facts
for February 2016
(February 2015)
Number of Active SOWERS*
463 (489)
Number of ALUMNI SOWERS*
132 (128)
Number of SOWER projects requesting SOWER Assistance
89 (86)
Number of SOWER projects receiving SOWER Assistance
55 (51)
Number of SOWERS* requested (Including SOAs)
424 (379)
Number of SOWERS* working (Including SOAs)
165 (173)
*Number of SOWERS always refers to a SOWER "Unit" - whether a couple or a single, not individual SOWERS.
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SOWER Blog Roll
See what other SOWERS are doing around the country!
Don & Jenny Rasmussen
Ed & Patty Soltes
Bob & Billie Wakeman
Gary & Stephanie Conrad
Paul and Juanita Alton
Terry & Alice Burnett
Glenn and Jane Kellenbenz
Do YOU have a Blog you'd like to share? Send me the link, and we'll add it to the "Blog Roll".
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Photo Info/Credits
Header location -
Elephant Butte Lake, near AppleTree Educational Center (NM-477), Truth or Consequences, NM
Header Group Shot -
Southwest Indian Ministry (AZ-208) January 2016 Janet & Les Turkelson (3192), Dick & Toni Howard (2527), Nancy & Harley Foss (3001), & Karen & Bill Myers (3190).
Introduction Photo - Palomar Christian Conf. Center, CA-263 John Davidson
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Remember how you were going to write up that God Story for the newsletter?
Or send in that great SOWER photo?
Or share about that unusual job you did at a project?
Well, I'm still waiting!
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Quick Links
To send in a prayer request or praise item-
To contact the office -
903-882-8070
Submissions for the SOWER TIPS go to
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We don't yet see things clearly. We're squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won't be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We'll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!
But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love.
I Corinthians 13:12&13 (The Message)
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