Neepawa

June 18

Today was a rest day - no riding/driving distances to cover. Our Shay and Harlee family PR team - this time Uncle John and Aunt Gerry, arranged an opportunity for us to make a presentation to a group of juniour high students at the Neepawa Collegiate.
Upon arrival we received a warm reception by school staff and the presentation by Mel and Lindsay was met with attention and applause by the students. Afterwards a representative from the NACI Juniour High Student Council presented us with a cheque for The Ride for Mental Health. We were so touched. Open minds and open hearts. Thanks to the students and also Principal Mr. Hollier and Vice Principal Ms. Yarayeski.
Our agents had also alerted the Neepawa Banner about The Ride but we made a couple of short detours before we went to the office. First detour was to the former home of Margaret Laurence. We were reading a plaque out on the front porch when the guide opened the door and offered us free admission "because of your project". Ruth took us around and shared a wealth of information about Laurence's early life in Neepawa. The house was chock full her of awards, autographed copies, photos and donated artifacts by the people of Neepawa that grew up with her. It was a really hot day and the second detour was for ice cream. By the time we remembered the newspaper, it was closed, but a young photograher came out and took a photo of Mel and Lindsay with the RV. The next day reporter Kate called and we answered some questions from the road.