Listener Lowdown

Viola L. is one of our new listeners, having received her radio just 8 months ago. At 97 years old, she is young at heart and mind. Viola was raised in St. Louis City, near the Casa Loma Ballroom, with her four sisters and one brother. Her extended family lived close by, and they enjoyed gathering together to play cards, softball, and leisurely Sunday afternoon picnics at Carondelet and Benton Park. Viola’s family did not own a car until she was a teenager, so the family either walked or traveled by streetcar to all their destinations.

In the neighborhood, there were many children for Viola to play with. Her dad, whom she describes as a wonderful family man, would often join in on the
games and activities. Viola recalls when the family of one of her best friends bought an RCA radio and how every child in the neighborhood would sit on the floor in the living room, staring at the console, and listening to the Black Shadow and other favorite programs. Viola’s family was very involved at St. Matthew’s Church, and she was an active member of the Tawanka Club for girls. The group would produce numerous plays and sponsor other special events to raise money for the church.

When Viola was 15 years old, her dad died suddenly of blood poisoning from a ruptured appendix. As the oldest child, Viola felt a responsibility to help take
care of the family and immediately enrolled in the Missouri Business College so she could learn skills that would provide a steady income. She became a
skilled bookkeeper and worked for several companies throughout her career.

About five years ago, Viola developed dry macular degeneration. As her eyesight weakened, she knew she had to seek assistance if she wanted to stay up-todate about information on the local and national level. When she discovered Minds Eye Information Service, it was “an answer to a prayer.” Since the expansion of the program offerings, there is always something of interest on the air, according to Viola. Her favorite programs are the daily reading of the newspaper and programs focusing on eye health. “I learn so much from listening to the radio, and even though I’m not sitting on the
floor as I did as a child, I enjoy it just as much!”

With KSDK Meteorologist Mike Roberts as host, professional auctioneer Dave Schumacher auctioning off items left and right, Bob Kramer’s Marionettes whirling through the audience and across the stage, wines flowing steadily, and a fabulous array of auction items, the 2009 Soiree pour la Vue was nothing short of a phenomenal sensation.

Not only were many wonderful new elements featured at the Soiree, but the 2009 Soiree proved the most financially successful event for Minds Eye to date, with a profit of nearly $20,000.

Minds Eye would like to extend our gratitude to all volunteers, donors, and listeners who contributed their time, talents, and resources to the 2009 Soiree. Merci beaucoup!