Joel, an energetic teen from the Dominican Republic, has been involved with Jan Tollefson‘s efforts for several years as guide, interpreter, and friend to Canadian student groups visiting his country. 

The son of hotel managers in Cabrera, D.R., where the 3 Chinook Caballeros (Normo, Normo, and Fredo) stayed during their 1999 trip, he is visiting Canada (Calgary and B.C.) to improve his english and seek support for his continuing university education. 

Joel has completed 2 years of university with 2 to 4 to go before getting his Business Administration degree from the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo. University fees aside, he faces similar costs as students here – food, rent, books, transportation, etc.

An entertaining speaker, Joel told of his recent experiences with the weather (too cold!), his discovery of the joys of Tim Horton donuts, and going to Vancouver where the Canooks play! His presentation introduced the club to his family and some of the history and customs of his country. 

The Dominican Republic (pop. 8.5 million) occupies about 2/3 of the island of Hispaniola (with Haiti), and was discovered by Columbus in 1492. 

Santa Domingo, was founded by Columbus’ brother in 1496 and was the first capital of the new territories, the first to have Spanish coinage, a university, a cathedral, a fort, a monastery, and a hospital.

Historic and cultural information at: www.dominicana.com.do/
Tourist information at: www.hispaniola.com/

[Anyone interested in assisting Joel with his education costs, see www.addyourlight.org/joelle.htm or contact Norm Myden or Norm Moro.]