Tactile USA flags with ‘The Pledge of Allegiance’ in braille presented to MSAB

The Ambassadors of the Minnesota State Academy for the Blind spoke at the October meeting of the Austin Red Cedar Chapter, National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution,held at the Austin Salvation Army. Eight students generously shared their stories.

Eva:

Gave a history of the school. In 1866 Miss Harriet Tucker started a blind department in what became known as the Deaf and Blind School. At the opening of the department there were four students and Miss Tucker at the reins. In 1873 three students became the first graduates. Subjects included reading, spelling, math and music. In 1874, it was decided to house the deaf and blind students in separate locations. The school remains in this same area. There have been many careers taught, including broom and mattress building, piano tuning, hammock making, rug weaving and woodwork. The 1900s saw enrollment growth, summer programs and dorms. The school was led by Dr. James Dow. The school is now known as The Minnesota State Academy for the Blind and serves 44 students from birth to age 21.

Brittany:

Talked about how her day in 11th grade was structured. She goes to school like any normal student. She uses a lap top for classes, and she takes three classes in public school. She demonstrated “Jaws” — screen reader for visually impaired. She started learning braille when she was 3. Smartphones and apps also have many uses for visually impaired.

On Oct. 15th MSAB celebrated “White Cane Day” at the State Capitol to remind drivers of the “White Cane Law.” This law was passed to protect those who use a cane or guide dog for travel in the community.

Brittany shared information about keeping her clothes organized and working in the kitchen.

She also mentioned MSAB has many sports activities. She plays goal ball, has been a cheerleader. The school also has choir, swimming and wrestling.

Sophie:

Is 13 years old and spoke about being an adolescent with little to no vision. She spoke about braille markings on kitchen appliances; the different methods for cooking and cleaning and more. She mentioned being a self-advocate. She is grateful for everything she has received.

“If you are determined to learn, then you are on a good path,” she said.

Marilyn Prenosil then presented Nicole Zweber, MSAB music specialist, with 10 tactile USA flags with “The Pledge of Allegiance” in braille. Cheryl Potter presented MSAB with 25 copies of the Star Spangled Banner, first stanza, in braille as well. Kristine Maier presented military veteran Norman Hecimovich with one of these flags for the Austin VFW. The VFW was given a copy of our National Anthem in braille as well.

Duplicate Bridge

Tournament results for Oct. 9 with four tables played: first, Lu Schmitt and Loren Cleland; second, Orrion Roisen and Dave Ring; third, Eunice Michaelis and Warren Behrends; fourth, Vandy Newman and Gene Muchow.

Duplicate Bridge is played each Wednesday at noon at the Mower County Senior Center in Austin. All Bridge players are welcome. Call Dave Ring at 507-434-4189 for partnership assistance or additional information.

Ladies Floral Club

The Ladies Floral Club met Sept. 9, 2013, at the Hormel HIstoric Home. Amy Baskin, Director of Community Education spoke about the Early Childhood Family Education program. New business was the formation of a committee to begin planning the spring fundraiser for the library. The book group will discuss The Devil in the White City on Sept. 24.

Y’s Women

Y’s Women met Oct. 10 at the Hormel Historic Home for a chili, taco soup and dessert supper.  Hostesses were Audrey Carroll, Connie Olson, Char Plantikow and Anita Ulwelling. Jan Chuick was welcomed as a guest.

Austin Public Schools Superintendent David Krenz and board member Don Fox spoke of the importance of the school levy referendum Nov. 5.

Janice Vervaecke and Lorraine Tilton showed many unique and colorful garments they have made for missions, a wonderful project.

The business meeting was conducted by Anita Ulwelling, Diane Low read the secretary’s report.  The next meeting will be 6:30 p.m. Nov. 14. The program will be given by Lenette Baron on Hospice Care.