Dominican Journeys: Thursday, February 13

The team went to Loma today for the morning and afternoon. The guys continued the woodworking project while the ladies led a devotional time with the Thursday tutoring class, followed by the making of flags in preparation for Independence Day on February 27th. The afternoon group of older boys finished assembling their stools and were very proud of their accomplishments. The ladies spent time in David's Art Room, sorting and organizing materials. David bought some plastic bins last night for this purpose.

Following the work day, Orquidea (Orchid), Director of Loma Community Centre, had organized a celebration for the staff and students who took part in a Rally back in the Fall around the time that Bea and I were doing our 'Walk for Loma' to raise money for the second floor roof. To commemorate turning 70, Bea walked 70 km (71.4 km to be exact) accompanied by John during a 24 hour event in London, Ontario. The students paraded into the Community Centre to the theme music from 'Chariots of Fire' as each was introduced. Bea and I obtained medals for all the staff and students who took part and made up 'Runner's Bags' with gifts such as hats and T-shirts for the boys and jewellery, nail polish and knit shawls for the girls. They also each got toothpaste and brush and other small items, including a Canada pin donated by the office of Neil Ellis, our Liberal MP. The medals were compliments of Anita Bergsma of 'Chance to Play', a Canadian charity that collects new and used soccer equipment and sends it to various countries with humanitarian teams to distribute.