SOUTH AFRICAN BRAILLE AUTHORITY

MINUTES

GENERAL ASSEMBLY 3-4 OCTOBER 2013

Minutes of the meeting of the South African Braille Authority (SABA) held on 3 & 4

October 2013 at the Bamboo Hall, Kgorong Building, UNISA Muckleneuk, Preller Street,

Pretoria.

1. OPENING AND WELCOME

The meeting was started with the singing of the National Anthem. Thereafter the

President of SABA, Christo de Klerk, welcomed several very eminent persons at the

meeting including Mr MC Baloyi Executive Director: Dean of Students, University of

South Africa and Dr Siva Moodley of the same University. Also present was Mr Pete

Osborne, the President of the International Council on English Braille (ICEB who came

to South Africa especially for the meeting.

In his welcome and opening address Mr MC Baloyi said:

"Chairperson of the South African Braille Authority (SABA),

Deputy Chairperson of SABA, Mr Simon Netshituni

Members of the Executive Committee of SABA (incl. Mr Deenadayalan Moodley),

Delegates from the various member organisations,

Ladies and gentlemen

It gives me great pleasure to officially welcome you to UNISA. I trust that your deliberations would be

very fruitful in promoting the quality and use of Braille in South Africa.

I am confident that the arrangements for the two-day General Assembly have been well-planned by the

Unisa staff of ARCSWiD, under the leadership of Dr Siva Moodley. I trust that you will find your brief stay

at UNISA, an enjoyable and enriching experience. I am extremely delighted to be invited to officially

open this, the fourth General Assembly of SABA.

Please allow me to share few thoughts on this historic occasion:

UNISA is extremely committed to addressing issues of disability:

ONE:

Just two weeks ago, UNISA, in commemorating and celebrating 140 years of shaping futures, hosted A

Two-Day Conference on Access Technology. I know that few of you present here today attended that

event.

TWO:

Today, we mark yet another milestone in UNISA’s long and rich history by hosting the TWO-DAY SABA

GENERAL ASSEMBLY, emphasising that we are not only willing to lead, but also to collaborate with

organisations in promoting services for persons with disabilities.

THREE:

Many of you are probably not aware that disability features very prominently at a strategic level at

UNISA, and I believe that we are unique in this regard.

FOUR:

Every college and department at UNISA is responsible for promoting issues of disability as part of their

operational activities.

FIVE:

There is a POLICY ON STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES; a separate policy for employees with disabilities; a

high-level Disability Steering Committee that is chaired by the Vice-Principal Institutional Development;

and an employee disability forum.

SIX:

In terms of Braille, UNISA has a dedicated directorate (ARCSWiD) that prides itself not only in keeping

abreast of trends and developments in respect of Braille production, but has taken the lead among

higher education institutions in implementing the Unified Braille Code in its Braille production.

Moreover, our involvement goes beyond that…….as two staff members of ARCSWiD serve on the EXCO

of SABA – Mr Simon Netshituni as the Deputy Chairperson, and Mr Deena Moodley as a member of the

EXCO.

There is no doubt that SABA has a very important role in ensuring the highest standards of Braille. I

believe that your work would involve, among other things:

monitoring the implementation of braille standards in the various organisations that work with

braille;

participating in the development and maintenance of technical braille codes;

implementing quality control measures with regard to the implementation of braille; and

Providing high-level training on implementing the Unified Braille Code (UBC).

As you have a great deal to discuss, I wish you well in your deliberations. I am confident that you will

leave here feeling empowered and enriched, because your collective contribution has the potential to

make a huge difference in the lives of those who use Braille.

With these few words, I officially declare the fourth SABA general assembly open."

Mr de Klerk informed the meeting that UNISA provided all the conference material in

braille and he expressed his appreciation for this very generous gesture.

Thereafter Dr Siva Moodley was introduced to the meeting. He said that UNISA also

appreciate the fact that SABA chose UNISA for such an important meeting. He said that

it was wonderful that such an organisation as SABA was started. The hard work will be

seen in future and the Executive will see the fruit of the work done.

2. PRESENT

The attendance list will be attached as annexure one

3. APOLOGIES

Ms M Darwing from the South African National Council (SANCB) represented by Mr

Alfons Dzapast, Mr D Greeff, Representatives from the Free State University, Mr N

Matthÿser, Ms M Schoeman and one more person whose name was inaudible on the

recording.

4. IN MEMORIAM

The following names of persons who passed away since the last meeting were

submitted:

The Father-in-law of Ms S Bam, Abe Nemeth the inventor of the Nemeth Braille code,

Mr P Matshaya, a braille instructor at the Khanyisa School in Port Elizabeth, Rev

Maquena, The husband of Ms M Steyl. One more name mentioned was inaudible.

5. CONFIRMATION OF THE AGENDA

A request to move item 19, Braille Examinations to an earlier slot in the agenda was

approved where-after the agenda was approved as circulated.

6. ADOPTION OF MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 9 AND 10 May 2013

RESOLVED:

6.1 That the minutes of the General Assembly held during May 2013 be adopted.

7. FINANCE

7.1 Financial Report

The treasurer reported via Skype that the financial statements for 2012-2013 was

approved by the Executive Committee and therefore adopted. The financial statements

were subjected to a financial review and not audited as approved by the General

Assembly with a constitutional adjustment during the year.

No fees were charged for the preparation of the statements but a fee was paid for the

official review of the statements.

The opening balance on 1 April 2013 was R3,067.78 which was followed by deposits of

R13,305.00 during the period up to 21 September, the date of the circulated report.

R7,000 of this was for membership fees, R1,920 for registrations and the rest from other

items as listed in the report.

During the reporting period, R4,993.00 was expended as in the detailed report.

This left SABA with a closing balance on 21 September of R11,379. SABA committed

itself for a further R7,950 leaving an estimated balance of R3,429.05 for the period.

The Treasurer then said that during the reporting period R96.85 was expended on cash

deposit fees at the bank from members who paid their membership and registration fees

with cash leaving SABA to pay the deposit fee.

Although this may be a small amount per deposit, he estimated that it can be round

R200 per annum and, at this stage, SABA just does not have the funds to cover even

this payment. He requested the meeting to consider adding a further R10 to any cash

deposit to cover this bank charge for cash deposits.

This was agreed by the meeting and it was,

RESOLVED:

7.1.1 That members be requested to add R10.00 to any cash deposit of their

membership or registration fee to cover the cash deposit fee levied by the bank.

7.2 SABA Membership

The Secretariat reported that membership started during 2012 with 24 members but

was reduced to 22 members for 2013. It therefore started with 10 schools and 14

institutions but changed to 9 schools and 13 institutions for 2013.

For the October 2013 General Assembly, 5 schools and 8 institutions registered.

The President reported that, at the last General Assembly the Executive was instructed

to make suggested changes to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the

South African National Council for the Blind (SANCB) and SABA. This was now done

and the document was duly signed by both parties.

The SANCB, according to the MOU is a non-voting member of Saba. The support of the

SANCB is wonderful and has a strong representation at this meeting. Relations are very

cordial.

The President also expressed his concern on the poor attendance especially the poor

attendance of schools.

It was suggested that some schools decided to rather attend the upcoming biennial

conference of the SANCB as their budgets will not cover both meetings.

It was also suggested that all the documentation was not received in time. This was not

supported as the secretariat was in possession of confirmations of receipt of

documentations to schools. This communication problem was also experienced by the

Library for the Blind in trying to communicate with all schools.

It was suggested that the Provincial Departments of Education be approached to rather

send delegations from schools to SABA and other meetings. This will encourage

schools to attend and benefit from the meetings.

RESOLVED:

7.2.1 That the Executive of SABA write to Provincial Departments of Education

informing them of SABA and what it does and stand for and encourage the Departments

to pay the membership fees and send delegations from schools to SABA meetings.

It was also suggested that teachers responsible for braille training at every school be

contacted for their contact details so that all future correspondence can be sent to these

persons as well as the principals to make sure all correspondence reach all persons

concerned.

The President requested schools to please forward the names and contact details of

persons at Provincial Departments that can help with the process and who have an

interest in promoting braille.

7.3 Application for funding of SABA to the Department of Arts and Culture (DAC)

The President said that the braille investigation conducted by DAC some time ago

recommended that the Braille Authority be funded by the DAC. Whether this

recommendation will be accepted will have to be seen.

At this point Mr Puleng Kekana, Director: Library policy and Coordination of the DAC

joined the meeting.

He was asked to enlighten the meeting on the progress with the braille investigation

report. He said that the braille investigation report was completed and has been

approved by the Minister of DAC. The next step was to forward the report to the Minister

for the Department of Basic Education (DBE) for approval. Further discussions will now

take place to discuss the many recommendations of the report some of which has a

direct relevance on education. As soon as the discussions have been concluded, the

braille sector will be contacted to inform it as to which of the recommendations can be

supported. Officials of the two departments have already had preliminary discussions. It

was emphasised that the officials understand the urgency of a final outcome of the

report.

The commitment to support SABA from a funding perspective is there and the

mechanisms to do this are being assessed at present. The DAC is committed to support

some of the projects of SABA while it is looking for sustainable funding for operational

activities.

On a question related to the road shows to stakeholders and schools to show them the

importance of braille and the Authority, Mr Kekana said that the DAC understands the

importance of a young institution like SABA to talk to its constituency and to inform them

of the way forward but that support of such projects of this nature can only be funded if

funds can be made available.

On a further question on the budget for the implementation of the Braille Report, Mr

Kekana said that, by the time the investigation was completed, the budget for the

Department was already approved for the next three years. After the discussions with

the DBE, the DAC will have to see which of the recommendations it can support and on

what level.

Finally Mr Kekana agreed that the statements made on the establishment of a National

Braille Facility as stated in the United Nations Country Report was incorrect and that the

main intention of the Braille Investigation was not towards this.

7.4 Other fundraising efforts

The President reported that the Executive is looking at other fundraising efforts. An

informational brochure was compiled as a prospectus to use as an information

document for fundraising efforts.

It was also envisaged to hold road shows to schools and other stakeholders. Through

this way contributions can be accepted as fundraising efforts.

At present there is no external funding available and all funds are derived from

membership and registration fees to SABA.

7.5 Registration fees

The secretariat reported that all participating members paid their registration fees of the

October General Assembly meeting.

Although the registration form clearly states that R120.00 was for the registration of a

delegation, some schools did not understand that and paid R120.00 per delegate

attending.

The Secretariat wrote to schools asking whether the additional payments must be

refunded but only one answered requesting the registration fees to be retained for future

meetings. This will then be the arrangement that all additional payments be retained for

future registrations for meetings.

It was interesting to note that no request for late registration was received so it is clear

that members understood the process of cut-off dates for certain processes.

RESOLVED:

7.5.1 That members and interested parties will be reminded of the payment of their

membership fees early in February 2014 and that this reminder should include a

reminder for the payment of R10 should fees be paid in cash at the bank.

8. ADVOCACY COMMITTEE

The meeting was informed that the Advocacy Committee met for the first time on 28

September 2013. The Committee was formed at this meeting as directed by the

previous General Assembly.

Members of the Committee are: Mr C de Klerk (Vice-Chairperson), Mr S Netshituni

(Chairperson), Ms Donaldson (Secretary), and Mr D Moodley and Mr W Malatsi as

members.

RESOLVED:

8.1 That the Advocacy Committee be established with the persons as listed above.

It was pointed out that all these persons are from the Gauteng Province but it was also

emphasised that the selection was done for convenient and cost sake and not to

preclude any other person from being involved.

To start the activities of the Committee some actions were extracted from the Terms of

Reference. This includes the question of who should advocate for SABA. It was agreed

that it was not the task of the Executive but of the Advocacy Committee.

The first Department to be targeted is the Department for Women, Children and

Persons with Disabilities (DWCPD). This department has at present no powers to

enforce anything but to monitor implementation of various acts for this sector. This

Department will be invited to the next General Assembly meeting to get a feel for the

sector.

The delays by the DBE in the provision of braille textbooks will be dealt with by the

Committee. It was also ruled by the Minister of the DBE that teachers will have to know

braille by 2014 if they teach blind learners but this will not materialise in the present

circumstances.

The Advocacy Committee resolved to, with the assistance of other organisations, take

the matter to court so that the process can be forced with a court order.

At this point, the President explained that the DBE has already violated the rights of

learners to have textbooks available. This process has already been ongoing for two

years with no real outcome at present.

The SANCB has already instituted court action through its involvement with Section 27

institutions. It is believed that the DBE tried to stall such actions by holding two

meetings in December 2012. No promised outcome did happen and a further effort to

stall the process was the arranged forced tender meeting during July 2013 where all

producers had to be present. However, it was found that the tender rules were

impossible to comply with especially the delivery dates. The penalties of late delivery

were also so severe that no producer could take the chance to start with any work.

It was therefore decided amongst producers to possibly form a Consortium to submit a

joint tender to accommodate the many formats of production as not all the production

houses have all the expertise in-house.

As a result of the restrictions of the tender conditions, no producer submitted a tender

and the work could not be done. At this point correspondence received from the DBE

made it clear that the Department was not interested to discuss the matter with a

consortium. The Pioneer Printers have in the mean time also withdrawn from the

proposed consortium. It was learnt that they even started producing some of the books,

a risk other stakeholders were not prepared to take.

The President said that he received the Country Report from the United Nation

Convention. In Section 239 it was stated that delays in the production of school

textbooks was due to the lack of capacity of producers. It was also stated that the

situation could now be alleviated because of an investigation into the production of

braille by the DAC to establish a National Braille Facility. He was sure this was not the

idea with the braille investigation but will confirm this with the DAC when possible.

It was felt by some stakeholders that the matter should not be delayed anymore and

that it be taken up with Section 27 to court for action.

SABA does not have funds as an organisation and it is therefore clear that SABA will

want other organisations to be involved in this action from a funding aspect.

Training on the technical aspect of the UBC was conducted during December 2012.

Substantial work was done to prepare a braille manual which was to start on 20 March

2013. This has not yet happened regardless of the fact that the training in grade 2

braille was supposed to start in the third quarter but has not happened to date. In the

mean time Blind SA's Braille Instructor has started with the training of fifty trainers in the

North West Province on a budget supplied by the Provincial Education Department.

Nothing is happening in other provinces and nothing is also initiated from the National

Department.

At this point Blind SA indicated that it will prefer to be involved in this action but that it

also needs the support of other organisations. Members were invited to join the action

and to make that known to the group that plans to work with Section 27 instructions on

this matter. It was pointed out that teachers who are paid by the DBE and partaking in

such action may jeopardise their position as employees of the State. It was also pointed

out that this matter of capacity has also been dealt with in European countries and is

nothing new. The President of ICEB suggested that a letter of support can be sent from

the ICEB offices if it can support the proposed actions. The meeting learned that the

President of the International Daisy Consortium also suggested that a letter of support

be issued from its office stating that braille and DAISY are harmonious entities opposed

to different ways of achieving the same objectives.

It was also stated that DAISY could replace braille but the President of DAISY South

Africa stated that there was no way in which DAISY can replace braille.

The capacity matter was addressed in the correct way by the DAC investigation which

involved all stakeholders on the matter and eventually produced a report with many

recommendations still in the process of being assessed by the DAC and the DBE.

It was suggested that the involvement of the international press will contribute to the

matter and that a strongly worded press release can have the desired effect. The only

proviso for this is that the facts must be tested and affected persons or person should

be prepared to agree with the standpoints in such a press release.

Members present were possibly not mandated to commit their organisations to such

proposed action and can therefore not respond at the moment.

RESOLVED:

8.2 That Blind SA and the SANCB jointly represent stakeholders of SABA and will join

with Section 27 to start court proceedings to force the DBE into action regarding the

production of braille textbooks.

It was also suggested that the parallel country report from the United Nations has not

yet been completed and corrections can still be made to it should the facts in the

original report be faulty. The updated braille report from DAC can be annexed to the

parallel country report as a support document for existing capacity for producing braille.

The matter of awareness and how to deal with it was discussed. Road shows were

discussed and assessed engaging schools and other institutions to raising awareness

on braille. The strategy for this action has not yet been thought through in detail but the

Engagement of the DAC was considered. It will take some work to change the present

mentality regarding braille in South Africa.

A framework is envisaged which will guide the users of braille especially as far as

standards and practice was concerned. This will promote the optimum use of braille.

An engagement of the Department of Public Works is considered with the use of braille

in public places.

All of the former must still be thrashed out in detail to be reported on at the next

meeting.

In previous years, a document on quality braille was prepared by Mr de Klerk and Mrs

Marshall. People were requested to source this document again to be used in future

awareness projects and quality assurance efforts.

The use of braille on pharmaceutical products in Europe is now standard practice. It

provides awareness to millions of people using it on a daily basis. This is an item that

can be investigated in South Africa.

Members were encouraged to submit any advocacy related item via the SABA General

mailing list.

9. ADDRESS BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL ON

ENGLISH BRAILLE (ICEB)

Mr Pete Osborne said that it was an absolute privilege to join SABA in South Africa. He

said that his intention during his presidency was to visit as many braille authorities as

possible to learn and to share experiences of the various authorities.

He referred to Dr Abe Nemith who died that week and said that he was always very fair

in his approach to anything even if not many did agree with him. He can be seen as a

pillar of braille in the work and more so in the development of braille codes.

As the Chairperson of the World Braille Council he said that the council is a committee

of the World Braille Union and was given a new life at the World Braille 21 conference

held during 2012 where braille was given a new profile.

The unification of all braille in the world is under discussion but one should be very

cautious on this matter as some work is being done on it but that there is still a long way

ahead before it can be achieved, if at all.

An item on the agenda of the Council is the shocking cost of refreshable braille displays.

This is a matter that must be addressed and resolved in the near future. New

technology now allows for less expensive displays and this must be resourced. Work is

ongoing with a consortium to do just that and results are expected soon.

A further item to be addressed is the braille music code. Although there is an

international code it is far from standardised as many countries' music demand more

from the code than what it can produce at present. Funding for this development will still

have to be sourced. Another item is to narrow the gap between braille and technology.

Both can be linked but some gaps still exist. Braille is as important as before but

technology can be brought on board to enable better use of braille.

Some areas of speech software and the representation of braille need to be attended to.

This is currently receiving serious attention.

The heritage of braille is extremely important in his view. This is an item that needs

serious attention and funding to maintain and reserve resources of braille for the future

generations.

Access to braille is, in his view, absolutely important even for the low cost aspect of it.

Braille is not dead and it is and will be the way to read through touch. It is vibrant and

must be maintained in this way.

He finally saluted South Africa for developing a braille code for eleven languages in the

Unified Braille Code (UBC), something the majority of countries does not have. The rest

of the world can take the example.

He was looking forward to the rest of the conference so that he can reflect the matters

discussed in other forums around the world.

At this point, the President informed the meeting that a new large braille producer has

started up in the near past.

The representative from Shereno Printers CC said that Shereno is the only commercial

printer that also produces braille. The organisation is a locally established printing

house and does printing for many organisations and for departments of the

Government.

The opportunity arose to also produce braille and this was grasped. The necessary

investigations were done at schools and other institutions and this was followed by the

acquisition of the necessary equipment.

A Government tender for the production of Vuk’uzenzele, a publication of the

Government's Communications department was granted and this put Shereno Printers

CC on the market as another large braille producer.

Further investigation will be conducted to produce other formats of braille in the near

future.

Shereno will be dependent on the rest of the sector to assist them with problems

experienced and they will welcome assistance to provide material for blind persons.

10. CREATION OF THE QUALITY ASSURANCE STRUCTURE

The President said that a quality assurance structure is to be set up within SABA. Once

this has been established, it would like producers to submit work to this structure. This

will then ensure that good quality braille is produced for the readers. All producers

regardless of its size should comply with this structure so that a stamp of approval can

be given to products circulated.

It was also said that, for smaller producers, it would be important to have a quality

control document to which it can comply.

It was suggested that volunteers be requested to make themselves available for this

group. In the setting up process, the group can work out its own structure and report to

the next General Assembly meeting.

The following persons volunteered their service:

Ms P Alden, Mr J Dube, Ms H Marshall, Mr D Moodley and Ms S van Wyk. Further

specific expertise can be sourced when required.

11. PROCEDURES FOR ELECTION OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE DURING

2014

The President explained that the Executive Committee must again be elected during

2014. To avoid problems with the process of elections, it was proposed that this be set

at this meeting to avoid confusion next year and years to come.

He explained to members the way Blind SA uses to do a secret ballot. This process has

been used for a long time and it worked very well up to now. This procedure was only

an example of how it can be done but should not be seen as the only way to do the

elections.

Members understood this method but also discussed other aspects of the process.

RESOLVED:

11.1 That the secret ballot used by Blind SA be used for future elections of the

Executive Committee of SABA.

11.2 That nominations for members of the Executive Committee of SABA must reach

the secretariat by the end of March of each election year.

11.3. That persons nominated must be available to take up the post they were

nominated for to avoid withdrawals at the last moment.

11.4 That a neutral person should preside over the election of the next Chairperson.

This will be decided upon by the meeting.

11.5 That a notice on the election process will be posted on the SABA General mailing

list and to individual members to allow enough time to approach available persons.

This will be done at the same time as the reminders for membership renewals.

12. EDUCATION

12.1 Capacity Building programme of the DBE

The DBE was not represented at the meeting and no report was circulated.

12.1.1 Teacher training in grade one braille as part of capacity building

No report was tabled and no member of the DBE staff was present.

It was reported that teachers of blind children were requested to attend a workshop on

the Kha Ri Gude project arranged by the Premier's office of Limpopo and presented at

the Setotolwane School. It was also planned to employ an accredited person on the

staff of the University of Venda from where the project will be driven. Training will take

about one year.

RESOLVED:

12.1.1.1 That the Kha RI Gude teacher training planned for Limpopo be monitored by

the Executive of SABA.

12.1.2 Grade two teachers training.

No report from the DBE was circulated and there was no indication when this was to be

conducted.

12.2 School textbooks in braille

No progress report was circulated or received from the DBE.

12.3 Any other education related matters

A request was received from a person in QwaQwa in which it was said that many adult

blind persons do not know braille at all. Assistance was requested to teach these

persons braille.

It was suggested that the Kha Ri Gude project be contacted to assist in this matter.

Correspondence with Prof McKay was attempted but no response was received to

date.

12.4 A general dissatisfaction was expressed on the Kha Ri Gude process. Members

were encouraged to submit proof of poor performance of the project otherwise no

discussions can succeed and it would not be worth taking the matter any further.

It was suggested that Prof McKay be contacted again with specific information on the

poor performance of the project. Only when this action fails, can the matter be taken to

the Public Protector or similar institutions.

RESOLVED:

12.4.1 That a meeting be requested with Prof McKay to discuss particular matters of

dissatisfaction of the Kha Ri Gude project.

It was again emphasised that it was not only learners that have a problem with braille

training but it was stated that more adults do not know braille than learners and that it

would be ideal to train them through members who serve learners in any way.

Correspondence courses can also be considered as there were enough resources

available for this purpose. Many of the Member Organisations of the SANCB does not

train braille at all to their members. It was also again stated that these proposals are the

ideal but it needs funding which SABA does not have.

13. MUSIC BRAILLE

13.1 Music list

It was reported that there has been no activity on this mailing list. Regardless of this, it

was requested not to remove the music list at this point.

14. INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL ON ENGLISH BRAILLE (ICEB)

14.1 ICEB Executive Committee meeting

Meetings are held every quarter by telephone conference. During the last meeting some

matters that were discussed included the next physical meeting to be held in New

Zealand during 2014, the promotion of braille and the website.

14.2 Code Maintenance Committee

Since the last SABA meeting the work of the Code Maintenance Committee (CMC) was focused on the publication of the rulebook, with additions and last minute improvements in representation.

The music accidentals which were requested were included, causing renumbering of the subsections that follow it in §3 General Symbols and Indicators, plus checking the references to the renumbered items. The Nemeth code indicator requested by the Braille Authority of North America and the rule governing the switch to Nemeth Code were also approved by the ICEB Executive Committee in time for inclusion in the Code Switching rule.

Extensive work was done on the Symbols List (Appendix 2) to ensure consistency in representation and a user friendly approach. For a symbol with more than one meaning separate entries were given rather than combining meanings in one entry, which assists easy reference especially for braille readers. One or two helpful notes were added to address frequently asked questions, e.g. explaining how to enter or capture the Unicode value of an unfamiliar symbol.

Ms Botha said that it was very special for her personally to be able to announce at this meeting that the release of the second edition of THE RULES OF UNIFIED ENGLISH BRAILLE is expected at the end of this month. The print and braille versions will be made available for download on the ICEB website. The format of the braille version will be 25 l/p and 30 c/l, chosen because it can be produced on any braille embosser.

The next major task on the agenda of the CMC is the revision of the Guidelines for Technical Material (GTM), which will probably be included as a separate volume in the next edition of the rulebook, replacing the current §11.

Regarding the query at the last SABA meeting about using contractions in mathematical function names such as "sin" and (Afrikaans) "tan", the reply from both the chair of the CMC and a co-author of the GMT confirmed that contractions may be used in function names when not in grade 1 mode. This will be specifically clarified in the revision of the GMT.

The President said that Ms Botha has not told the meeting of her enormous contribution

towards the success of this committee. He said that nothing passes her attention;

something we have seen over the years in minute writing. To a large degree, the

rulebook to be published was and is a tribute to Ms Botha for the work she has done

over the years. These sentiments were echoed by the President of the ICEB in saying

that this rulebook is probably the best book of its kind for any code in the world. This

publication will also have a more international look whereas it was somewhat country

orientated before.

14.3 Refreshable Braille Committee (Now the Braille Technology Committee)

Efforts are on the way to produce an affordable braille display in the near future. The

Transforming Braille Project is working on this project.

Recently the committee started dealing with the poor implementation of braille with

apple i-phone users. A letter will be sent from ICEB to Apple in this connection and it

was hoped that the matter will be taken seriously.

The meeting was told that especially in Europe, Apple products are provided to visually

impaired persons and an elementary braille implementation called "Braille Talk Back" is

available and is being developed. This braille support will be available on more and

more of the mobile information technology. The use of UEB is also more frequently

seen on these technologies.

A South African developer is in the process of developing a note taker that will be

launched on 10 October 2014. He made contact with Ms and Mr Kearney from the USA

who was interested in developing translation tables for Afrikaans. He requested a

document with Afrikaans rules. The Head of Tape Aids was willing to have the Afrikaans

rules translated into English for Mr Kearney to use it for the translation tables. The

meeting was requested to approve this action but felt that the translated rules must first

be checked by SABA in case something was misunderstood by the translator.

It was also suggested that the document for rules of Afrikaans be sent to the DAC to

assess whether it cannot do the translation which normally is free of any charge.

RESOLVED:

14.3.1 That the Afrikaans document on the Afrikaans translation tables be sent to the

DAC to assess whether it can perform the translation of the document into English after

which SABA will again assess the translation to make sure that the translator did

understand all the contents.

14.4 Braille Music Committee

The Committee is in the process of collecting data from member countries and world

wide from music transcription services with the aim of finalising the charges on hand.

14.5 Public Relations Committee

The exact actions of the committee have been agreed upon. This includes the use of

the website and other actions including the publishing of braille in general. The

development of the website will be in cooperation with the website development in the

UK.

14.6 Training and implementation Committee

No further developments have taken place since the last meeting of SABA.

14.7 Signage Committee

Contact was made with an official of the South African bureau of Standards. It was

envisaged that, in time, the whole standard of braille in products will be dealt with.

A document was received from a European country dealing especially with

pharmaceutical products with braille writing on it. The process of evaluating the current

standards is slow but some opportunities have arisen that will be followed up. The

meeting was informed that the European standard has now progressed to the

International Standards Organisation which will become a recognised standard. This is

important for developers to develop their own products according to the adopted

standards.

Two actions are in progress i.e. the gathering of data amongst member countries and

the setting of standards and guidance from within ICEB followed by recommendations

and guidelines. The adoption of an ISO standard will enforce standards including braille

on products.

The President informed members that the new ID card will also include braille dots on

the bottom left hand corner.

14.8 CERTIFICATION COMMITTEE

The representative for the Certification Committee said that there has been no further

action since the last meeting of SABA. South Africa was encouraged to activate some

action in this Committee of ICEB as there are a number of issues that can be attended

to.

15. UNIFIED BRAILLE CODE

15.1 Training presented since the last meeting

The President of ICEB encouraged SABA to have a look at the resolutions of the

previous meeting of ICEB. SABA was encouraged to challenge some of these

resolutions as it may interest SABA to do so.

As reported in another item, training was given to the teachers of the North West

Province Education Department arranged by Blind SA. No further training by the DBE

has taken place since the last meeting

15.2 Reading material for beginners

It was reported that various levels of reading material was transcribed since the last

meeting. The project is on target.

15.3 Usage of the unified code

It was reported that it would be difficult to test the usage of UBC in other languages as

not much material has been produced and circulated. Teachers are again requested to

encourage the use of unified code by learners in all languages. It was found that

learners do not know the unified code because many teachers do not know braille and

are not keen to learn it either.

It was suggested that an investigation should be started in finding out what code is

being used by the different disability units and other smaller producers. Only in this way

the implementation and usage can be determined.

RESOLVED:

15.3.1 That the Executive Committee starts an investigation in determining the level of

UBC usage by disability units and smaller production units.

At this point, the President of ICEB suggested that ICEB be contacted for financial

support of actions taken by SABA that in real terms also supports the cause and actions

of ICEB generally. This can be motivated as research being done locally for the

international cause.

RESOLVED:

15.3.2 That SABA request financial support from ICEB to assist SABA in the research

of some matters that can be of value to all ICEB member countries and further afield.

16. LOCAL MANUALS

16.1 Hands On

The publication has been received very well throughout South Africa. The stock has

nearly been depleted and another production run is considered. The matter of cost for a

re-print is discussed in detail and it was agreed that, should a re-print be considered,

Pioneer Printers be requested to consider doing the work or alternatively to request

Shereno Printers to assess the possibility to perform the task.

16.2 Ses Punte 21

The author of this manual needs a lot of support to continue with the work as she is of

the opinion that the manual is not required anymore. Progress is very slow and only

moves forward when the author has assistance for this. Although the manual has not

been completed the author is encouraged to finish it up to the end of the contractions

sections. Members are requested to encourage the author to continue with the work. If

this is not to happen, there may be no manual at all. Because of the frail condition of the

author there is a real fear that it will never be finished.

The president undertook to speak to the author and to encourage her to finish the book

seeing that 51 copies of the first four volumes have already been sold.

16.3 Supplements for SA languages

Work is continuing on this project and progress can be reported in that a supplement for

Zulu is nearly completed and is only in need of a final proof.

Some discussions continued on the use of uncontracted lower signs at the end of lines

or not. It was concluded that exceptions should not be considered and that the UBC rule

should be used.

On a question on the format of such publications, it was agreed that loose leaf books

can have an advantage in that worn pages can be reprinted and that further

supplements can be inserted with ease.

The Venda contractions were revised during 2009 but still some contractions are not

always acceptable to the users of the language. The implementation of the tables used

in 2009 was probably left behind in various areas although the producers used the latest

versions.

16.4 Manual for beginners by Ms Smith

The "Braille made Easy" manual is in the process of being finalised. In the mean time

Ms Smith uses the manual but no copies can be made until it has been completed.

17. AN INVESTIGATION INTO BRAILLE RELATED MATTERS

This matter was discussed in earlier items.

18. BRAILLE CODES IN SA

18.1 Grade 1 (all languages)

No discussions

18.2 Grade 2

18.2.1 Afrikaans

This report is presented on behalf of Reinette Popplestone who could not attend this

meeting. She provided draft versions of six rules upon which the SABA Rules

Committee have reached consensus. She also prepared a written report which

contains useful background information. It is recommended that this report be

attached as an annexure to the Minutes, and members are encouraged to study it

carefully and to discuss it with fellow braillists and interested braille using friends. It

must be strongly stressed that the changes to standing rules are not to be randomly

implemented. Official implementation will be announced when all rules have been

covered, the translation table has been adapted, and the supplement for Afrikaans is

ready for distribution.

The committee agreed not to change current Afrikaans contraction rules unnecessarily

where they differ from UBC usage, provided that they do not violate UBC principles.

For example, we retained our rule not to allow apostrophe'd letters to one-cell

wordsigns (as in "hy's"); and we retained our rule to use shortforms only when

standing alone. The UBC "standing alone" rule is not much different from our current

usage, but UBC stipulates exactly which symbols may be attached to one-cell

wordsigns and shortforms, which makes its application much easier.

The effect that pronunciation has on current contraction usage in Afrikaans is liberalised

to some extent in the new rule. It will change word images to which readers are used

in many cases, but will become much easier to apply.

(See Annexure 2 for report from Ms Popplestone.)

The committee requested all readers to make the new rules known and to report all

mistakes or suggestions to the committee for implementation in the future. It was also

emphasised that, although the rules must be made known, it should not be implemented

yet.

18.2.2 Other South African languages

Some contractions of other African languages had to be discarded to bring it in line with

the UBC rulings. Examples were given.

It was suggested that the work on African languages and in particular some disputes

must be referred back to the committee for African languages regardless of the fact that

there are not many readers of the languages. Co-option of experts outside of the larger

production houses must be sourced to avoid in-house decisions to suit the producers. It

was also stated that changes are never comfortable but that readers will get used to

implemented changes.

A letter was received from Zimbabwe wherein the model used for Nguni languages was

challenged. It was stated that the contractions used was far from ideal and should be

revised. Permission was requested to critically evaluate the efficacy of the post UBC

contractions implementation.

In discussing the appeal, the African Languages Committee, although short of

knowledgeable persons, cannot see its way to agree to a change of the current model

for African Languages contractions. In their view the Nguni language system is doing

very well and does not need to be changed at this point. It was also felt that it cannot be

allowed that it be interfered with.

19. BRAILLE EXAMINATIONS

This was the first time that the South African Library for the Blind (SALB) has taken over

the administration of the braille examinations. Quite a number of entries were received

for the elementary examinations. The administration of this was made difficult by the

postal strikes at the time and the higher examinations had to be moved forward

because of this. Many communication problems therefore came regardless of the

alternative actions the SALB took to make it work.

The same strict scheduled programme will be followed for the higher examinations. The

process was much faster and effective this time.

Communication is still a problem and schools are again requested to communicate with

the SALB when there is any doubt whether scripts or other documents have been

delayed.

The Braille Consultant thereafter discussed some details of entries of the higher exams

containing details of writing. Some examples were given to inform delegates on what

problems can be experienced.

It was interesting to note that there was an increase in the entries for African Languages

with high marks for some entries. Members were however urged to encourage more

learners to write the examinations as it was also clear that not many know contracted

braille.

RESOLVED:

19.1 That the matter of the postal delays be referred to the Executive Committee for

action in writing a letter to the postal authorities of complaint.

The Braille Consultant reported that plans are made to forward examination

documentation with a courier system to ensure that documentation reached the right

person at the right time.

Concern was expressed on the system used for prizes to learners. It feels as if the

system is unfair and not properly thought through.

It was also stated that addresses are included on the registration forms and it was

difficult to understand how problems can exist with the addresses used for

correspondence.

To eliminate problems with the awarding of prizes, it was suggested to award a first

prize but thereafter only second and third places.

This was the first year that the Library has taken the responsibility of conducting the

examinations and the President congratulated and thanked the library and its staff for

doing it in this way. One can only learn over time and problems can be sorted out in this

way.

The Library is also thanked for providing the budget for the two examinations.

20. BRAILLE CONSULTANCY

A circulated report was tabled for information of the meeting.

Schools were visited in Limpopo where it was found that teachers either have a basic

knowledge of braille or did not know braille at all regardless of UBC. Efforts were made

to promote braille to teachers and others.

The work with tactile books have developed with the latest being on musical

instruments. Eighteen books have now been made available with various tactile items

included.

It is also envisaged that a tactile braille mailing list can be established to encourage

communications between persons interested in this format.

The simplification of tactile books is also looked into. This will make it easier for learners

to understand.

It should be borne in mind that the use of tactile braille is still very new to most of the

teachers in South Africa.

It was reported that the UK is considering adopting the USA's guidelines on tactile

braille as this is a very comprehensive work in this format. South Africa can consider

using this guideline as a standard.

A request was again tabled for the Braille Consultant to visit schools in the Free State

as there is a great need for input from the consultancy.

A braille workshop was held at the Setotolwane School in Limpopo initiated by the office

of the Limpopo Premier to encourage the use of braille. Various presentations were

conducted concurrently. In some of these the importance of the role of SABA was

highlighted. In other presentations it was clear that many teachers know very little of the

braille code and even less of UBC.

Systemic problems of braille and the re-deployment and other teacher related matters

were discussed in separate sessions.

To date no resolutions of the workshop was made available and it was asked what

intention and action was expected from whom. It was not clear who will implement any

of the awaited resolutions

RESOLVED:

20.1 That the SABA Secretariat requests the resolutions from the Braille Workshop

held during July 2013 and arranged by the Premier's Office of Limpopo.

21. LOUIS BRAILLE BULLETIN

This publication is circulated twice annually after the SABA General Assembly meetings

to all stakeholders and interested parties.

22. DUXBURY BRAILLE TRANSLATOR

22.1 Table Development - maintenance

It was reported that quite a lot of work has been done on the tables. Various individuals

work on individual languages where progress is well advanced with the tables

implementation of the unified code in progress. Details of some changes were

highlighted to the meeting.

Members were reminded that all translation tables can be requested from the Braille

Consultant.

23. MASS LITERACY CAMPAIGN

The Kha RI Gude project is now driven by Prof McKay. It was reported under another

item that a letter was sent to Prof McKay with no response so far.

24. SAQA (recurring item)

No updates were available.

RESOLVED:

24.1 That the item on SAQA be retained for future agendas.

25. SPECIAL COMMITTEES

25.1 Braille Maths

No activity has been reported on the mailing list set up for this purpose.

A maths committee was established but no matters have been reported and no

requests put to the group.

On a question, it was said that follow-up training was envisaged. No schools from Kwa-

Zulu Natal attended the previous training sessions and this has to be addressed. Some

teachers, who attended the training for the technical component, did not even know

braille although they were informed that they had to know braille itself.

On a further question, it was stated that the material used for technical UBC training

cannot be used for self training and that a fair knowledge of maths was required for the

material to make sense at all.

The meeting was informed that the publication on the guideline for technical training

was available although it was in the process of being revised. Regardless of this the

guidelines can be used in its present form.

Confusion still exists as to the level of UBC technical material that should be used for

schools as some are already using it for grade 12 and others not. This problem must

also be discussed and finalised. SABA realises that there is a need for the technical

training but it still needs quite a lot of work before it is finalised.

The committee was requested to post the rules on SIN and TAN as mathematical terms

on the mailing list for all concerned to benefit by.

25.2 Tactile Graphics

See item 20 for information

26. DRAFT BRAILLE POLICY STATEMENT

The SANCB drafted a braille policy and requested inputs on the policy. Discussions

were held with DWCPD but that department could not accept the document as a policy

as policy writing is the task of the Government itself according to a statement by the

Deputy Minister. There were some further discussions but the outcome of this is unsure

with no indication what will happen when.

Being a SANCB generated document, SABA could hardly work with it unless the

SANCB agrees to this. It was also suggested that the document can be used in

awareness projects but even this can only be done with agreement of the SANCB.

RESOLVED:

26.1 That the Draft Braille Policy Document be discussed at the upcoming SANCB

biennial conference and that the DWCPD be advised that this process is to follow with

the view of using it in the future. It was also suggested that such a document can be

annexed to the parallel country report to be available to all of the braille industry over

the world.

27. NEIGHBOURING COUNTRIES

An e-mail was received requesting an invitation for a delegation from Botswana but

nothing further has been heard.

27.1 Request received from Mr Gary Ngara form Zimbabwe

This matter was discussed in earlier agenda items.

27.2 Any visitors from neighboring countries will be given the opportunity to

report/contribute.

No delegation from neighboring countries registered for the General Assembly meeting.

28. ANY OTHER RELEVANT MATTERS

Saba was requested to make sure that the DBE be represented at SABA meetings as

their input and notice of discussions were very important. The meeting was informed

that on receiving an apology from the DBE for not attending, a message expressing a

serious dissatisfaction of SABA was returned.

It was noticed that teachers who became blind in service, found it difficult to be re-

absorbed in the system. Organisations are requested to assist teachers as far as

possible for re-absorption and with other activities required by the blind person. This

matter was and can again be taken up by the Advocacy Committee as a matter of

urgency. This action can be extended to all Government employees in the same

situation.

29. CLOSING ADDRESS BY THE HOST OF THE MEETING

Dr Siva Moodley said that the fact that the meeting could be hosted by UNISA was a

privilege for the University. He said that in general terms, the meeting was systematic,

very comprehensive and an honest assessment of the issues on the table. Although

SABA was in his view a young organisation, it achieved a lot in a short time span. He

was impressed about the establishment of a quality assurance committee. The lobbying

for teachers, learners and other users was equally impressive. He understands the

membership issues and that needs to be improved. The workshop in the north was a

vehicle for awareness of SABA and should be continued to achieve effects.

The funding problem is universal and will probably not change easily.

Mr Moodley expressed some views on the production of Braille and the negative

attitudes about braille. Teachers are mostly insecure on braille because they do not

know enough of it.

On the question whether training is enough to encourage teachers to teach in braille, he

said that that is not enough because literacy is the important matter. Braille should not

be set aside as an issue but incorporated into the education programmes.

He suggests that a workshop be held where real life situations can be brought to the

table, experiences of real life braille teachers can be discussed, and practical benefits

from braille users discussed with the issue of how braille and technology can be

integrated. He closed by saying that in praising braille, Helen Keller said "the beauty of

braille is that you can touch it and be touched by it."

The President of SABA thanked Dr Moodley for a most inspiring closing address. He

also thanked him for his continued commitment and enthusiasm for braille.

30. DATE AND VENUE OF THE NEXT MEETING

An invitation was received from the SA Library for the Blind in Grahamstown to host the

next General Assembly meeting of SABA. The Library will be celebrating its 95 th

birthday and this will be seen as another way of celebrating service for braille.

RESOLVED:

30.1 That the next General Assembly meeting of SABA be held on 8 & 9 May 2014 in

Grahamstown.

The President also advised the meeting that an invitation was received from the Pioneer

Printers to host a General Assembly. This will be dealt with at the next meeting but it is

likely that the October 2014 meeting will be in Worcester.

31. VOTE OF THANKS

The President thanked UNISA for hosting the General Assembly meeting this time.

Appreciation was also expressed towards Mr Baloyi for attending and performing the

opening address. The team that made it all possible was thanked; Mr D Moodley and Mr

NS Netshituni in particular and appreciation was expressed to all the staff and

volunteers that assisted during the meeting, the gifts and tremendous effort put into the

meeting.

Members and its delegations were thanked for attending. The meeting could not have

happened without the delegations.

Ms Botha has now indicated several times that this will be her last SABA meeting. This

can not be allowed. Where will the standards go without her was asked. A quality

committee has just been established but they cannot do it without her wonderful

knowledge and experience of braille. It was stated that she was welcome any time and

her input will be valued in the future. Saba would like to keep a close relationship with

her.

At this point, the President of ICEB said that he learnt a lot from the meeting and that he

can take this away and use in other similar circumstances.

32. ADJOURNMENT

With this the meeting was adjourned.

CHRISTO DE KLERK

Compiled by Derick Greeff

ANNEXURE 1

REGISTRATIONS OCTOBER 2013SURNAME FIRST NAME MEMBER

ALDEN PASHA SALBBABEDI SYLVESTER BARTIMEABAM SUSAN BLIND SABOTHA ANTONNETTE INSTITUTE BLINDDE KLERK CHRISTO PRESIDENTDZAPAST ALPHONCE SANCBDONALDSON CATHY BLIND SADUBE JOHANNES BLIND SAGARRIB VIRJANAND SHERENO PRINTERSGUMEDE DR M UNISAHATTINGH STEFANIE PRINSHOFSKOOLHEADOWS HELEN ICEBISMAIL SURAYA SANCBJORDAAN PHILIP BLIND SAPHOSA KAGISO BARTIMEALESUFI TERRY SIBONILEMOTGODI RAKABE SIBONILEMAKHAFOLA SOLOMON SIBONILEMARSHALL HAZEL SANCBMATSHWANE EUGENE BARTIMEAMOODLEY DEENADAYALAN UNISAMUFLANENG VIDE NWU NETSHITUNI NTSHAVHENI UNISAOSBORNE PETE ICEBROOS ANDRE DAC STEYL MARIANE PIONEER SCHOOLSWART MARIUS PIONEER PRINTERS

TSHAZIBANA RONNIE NWU TSHIOVHE MICHAEL TSHILIDZINIVAN WYK JULIANA PIONEER SCHOOLVAN WYK SUSAN BLIND SANOLUVUYO YONA SALB

ANNEXURE 2

Report to SABA

Rules for Afrikaans braille

3-4 October 2013This report deals with the work that has been done to bring Afrikaans contraction and related rules into line with UBC rules and principles. It will deal with those rules and principles which have been approved by the Rules Committee appointed by SABA some time ago. We have agreed on revised braille terminology in accordance with UBC (see working document), and have agreed in principle on the formulation and the examples used in the rules discussed below, although it is understood that small editorial corrections and amendments may be necessary.

The "Standing alone” ruleAlthough many of the principles contained in this rule have been applied in practice for a long time, it was explicitly formulated for the first time as part of the principles on which UBC contraction rules are based. The rule has particular relevance to wordsigns and shortforms. Consequently we have had to formulate this rule for Afrikaans and apply it where required.

One-cell groupsignsThis rule has been adopted in principle, noting that many more examples have been given than was the case in the past, especially because decisions approved by Braille SA already before 2000 (and which newer members of SABA may not be aware of), have an impact on how these contractions will be used as soon as the rule has been formally approved. Essentially it liberalises the use of contractions: we would now contract for instance the te in [[*g1*]]teater, karateles [[*g2*]]and telefoon.

The word images which may appear unfamiliar to some will also have changed as a result of doing away with two contractions in the spirit of UBC. This is particularly true of the contraction for el. Furthermore we will contract met in metode and metaal, kom in kome[[*/*]]die, vol in volume, etc.

ShortformsThe rule governing shortforms has remained basically unchanged in respect to Afrikaans, but it is the rule which deviates most significantly from the UBC usage, in that we have retained the principle of not using shortforms when they occur as parts of words. They are allowed to be used only when they’re standing alone. [[*g1*]]Ons gebruik dus nie die verkorting vir brief in die woord briefwisseling, of die verkorting vir goed in goedgelowig nie; [[*g2*]]neither do we contract natuurlik in the word onnatuurlik, or moontlik in moontlikhe[[*/*]]de. This decision greatly simplifies the rule which contains no exceptions, as opposed to the one for English which contains a myriad of exceptions and conditions.

UitspraakThis rule was the cause of lively debate and even required the group to resort to an official vote, which is seldom necessary. We are now all agreed among other things that the contraction for en can be used in Kenia, senior, Helene, Marlene, etc.

The rules on Voorkeur (preference) and oorbrug[[*/*]]gi[[*/*]]ng (bridging) are little changed from what has been used in the past, except that there has been some liberalisation of the bridging of prefixes with the main word, and also those where the first part of the word is no longer really recognized as an independent word. (We know that wis is a much older form of the verb om te weet, but it is no longer used in that sense, so that there is no reason not to use the contraction for sk, for example, in a word such as wiskunde or wiskundige.

What remains:Other rules which will not be circulated today have been formulated and discussed, but major challenges with creating a correctly formatted and translated braille version of a MsWord master have caused huge delays. This includes the rule for alphabetic and one-cell wordsigns. It may still be useful to speak briefly about these. The UEB rulebook treats alphabetic wordsigns and other wordsigns (this, shall, still, child, etc) separately, mainly because of the high frequency of apostrophe’d words in English such as you’ll, it’s, that’s, people’s, you’d, etc. UBC allows these contractions to be used in specified instances. In Afrikaans on the other hand this occurs very infrequently (mainly in very colloquial dialogue: “jy’s gek”) so we are able to apply the standing alone rule with no exceptions to all kinds of wordsigns.

The rule for lower contractions has been circulated to the group, but Antonnette provided detailed comment on the original draft which has not yet been worked into the version of the rule the working group has seen for reasons similar to the above.

We will also need to apply our minds to the principles which we would like to govern the use of the “language switch” facility that UBC (and DBT) allows. This means that one can cause a passage within a document to be contracted in a language of choice. We have long had a practice of contracting longer English passages when they have occurred in an Afrikaans text, but we have had many a debate about under what circumstances we will use this option. I would imagine the other indigenous language users will each have to decide what they will do in this regard for their own language. It also seems to me unlikely that we will make use of this facility in a predominantly English text, for reasons that must be obvious.

Other issues such as word division will also need to be discussed.

I have, in principle, given up the dream of creating one master document, and this is likely to speed up the work going forward. Who knows, I might also get my braille display back, but this seems a fading hope.

In conclusion I must caution against haste or optimism regarding the imminent publication of the Afrikaans rules, especially in print. It is simply a more time consuming process than one imagines when one embarks on this process. Ms Botha will confirm that between us she and I have spent hundreds, perhaps even thousands of hours on this, and it may seem to some that we don’t have much to show.

Respectfully (and somewhat dispiritedly submitted)

Reinette Popplestone