WISCONSIN RAPIDS, WI (WSAU) — Wisconsin Rapids Mayor Shane Blaser once again marked “White Cane Awareness Day” in his city on Sunday.
Blaser says a resident brought the day to his attention last year and encouraged him to make others aware. “Based on our discussions my assistant Emily [Kent] came up with a proclamation to make people aware that there are people in our community that have a cane or a dog and are walking around using our sidewalks and crosswalks.”
He says if you see someone using a white cane to get around on streets or in a crosswalk you should slow down and give them space, especially if you are driving. The proclamation also aims to remind residents and business owners to keep their sidewalks clear of snow and ice as we move into the winter months.
“People expect the sidewalks to be cleared so they can utilize them. We see a lot of walkers, so our businesses and our residents need to have their sidewalks cleared within 24 hours after a snowstorm,” added Blaser.
Last week’s proclamation notes that the white cane symbolizes “the ability to achieve a full and independent life” for those who are blind or low-vision. The proclamation adds that the cane allows them to fully participate and contribute to society and live the life they want to live. The proclamation also calls on employers to to be aware of and fully utilize the employment skills of blind citizens.
Other topics Mayor Blaser discussed with WSAU’s Mike Leischner include:
Start of video- New dog park
3:50- Budget update
6:20- Free Speech Week
7:10- White Cane Awareness
9:20- Winter prep
