Once again I find that I've put off sending you an update on DuncanAfrica. These days are exciting, and I'm humbled by all that is going on in our lives. Irena and I are doing fine, and are moving to Mpigi, Uganda mid-January 2009. Can you believe another year has gone by? I can't begin to list the things I'm thankful for this year. I'll tell you about what's been happening around DA lately.

Last month we hosted our first annual Walk for Africa at Iona Beach in Richmond.  It was a great success.  Thanks to all of the participants who braved the cold, rainy conditions and walked 8 km's.  Thanks to all of those who made pledges.  We raised over $1200.  We were blessed to spend time with friends and enjoyed an eventful walk that included a bald eagle swooping right next to us as we walked by. 

A number of weeks ago I took delivery of four guitars, made in Africa by David and Isaac. A monumental day in the scope of our program, it proved beyond a doubt that Ugandan people could indeed build high quality guitars, without me. Each guitar does require some 'refinement' at this end; setting up the string height, buffing the finish to a higher gloss etc., but these are minor issues. The thing is, our idea has worked!

If you'd like to get on the waiting list for a guitar, contact me.  Deposits are $500. Waiting time is approximately 4 months. 

Songwriter, international recording artist and worship leader kicked off his Canadian tour in Abbotsford in support of his new album, 'It's Time'.  He played an African-made DA guitar the whole tour and referred to it as 'a new friend'. Brian and friends said the guitar compared very well to his famous Olson guitars.  We saw much interest in the crowd after the concert and really appreciate Brian's support over the years.

Curly maple, often called 'flamed' or 'fiddle-back', is a highly sought after wood for acoustic guitars.  Last week, an Abbotsford man, Steve Dunton,  donated about 8,000 pounds of curly maple in an effort to help launch us into our next phase of the project. This will be sliced into thin (4mm) pieces that will eventually become the backs and sides for 700 – 800 guitars. Truly an amazing gift.  Last Monday, despite the rain, we had a great turn out of volunteers who helped load the wood into a truck.  Steve, Scott, Ernie, Chris, Naomi, Kevin, Matt, Ben, Andrew, John and Irena helped to move the wood from the garage to the Larrivee company for initial processing. We are very thankful to all of you.

PS. Steve  Dunton is running for Mayor in Abbotsford.   If you live in Abbotsford, we hope you might consider giving Steve your vote. With a heart this generous and his business background, we think he might be the leader Abbotsford needs during these uncertain times.

Last week we sat down with a local Christian University to look at the possibility of a business education course for our students. Pray that details would come together in the near future.

 

They have six more guitars on the go. Isaac just became a father and a husband!  Vincent, our landscaper, is going to the doctor for some fairly serious tests (he is 81 years old), so he needs your prayer. David could use prayer as he's been dealing with some corruption in the local government. Pray also that he is successful with the Minister of Education who could hold up our paperwork and slow down our next shipments of supplies.

We've also now taken 'possession' of our new office / warehouse space in Port Kells, BC. We are right next door to the distributor for Peace Drums and Istanbul cymbals!! Coincidence? Not Likely ;)  

Rent $250/mo

Utilities $60/mo

Lunch for the students $60/mo

Phone usage & e-mail access $50/mo

OK. Thank you so much for your support and encouragement over the last year. It's been a good one, and the next is going to be even better! 

With Much Love And Great Wishes For You!!

Jay & Irena Duncan