Looks like this happened a year ago.
Mark Dayton buys laptop for blind woman: Emily Zitek had her
specialized laptop computer stolen on a bus last week. "Her
story touched my heart," said the former senator.
By Tim Harlow Star Tribune, Minneapolis
Publication: Star Tribune (Minneapolis, Minnesota)
Date: Tuesday, November 25 2008
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Nov. 25--A woman from Minneapolis who is blind and had her
specialized laptop computer stolen last week is getting a
replacement courtesy of a former United States senator.
$6,500-machine should arrive next week.
"Her story touched my heart and it was the least I could do,"
said Dayton, who is living in Minneapolis. "It's awful how low
some people will go, and if anybody needed help, it's Emily."
In a separate interview last week, Dayton confirmed that he
intends to run but said he would hold off on starting a formal
campaign and fundraising until next year.
Zitek was riding a Metro Transit express bus from her job in
St. Paul to Minneapolis when somebody reached under her seat and
snatched her backpack that contained her laptop. The computer
contained nearly all the information she needs to keep track of
the vending machines she fills and to teach other adults with
visual impairments to live independently.
Her loss was widely reported in the local media and within
hours several good samaritans in addition to Dayton came forward
to help. Jay Bruber, president, CEO and owner of the Simek's
chain, agreed to replace software that is not included with the
laptop. The Minnesota Heating and Cooling Association also was
collecting money from its board members and the public to go
toward a replacement.
"That is so wonderful," said Zitek, 31. "It goes to show you
that for every bad person, there are 100 good people out there."
Meanwhile, Metro Transit police continue to look for a man who
they believe took Zitek's laptop or knows of its whereabouts.
Police released a surveillance photo of the suspect on Friday and
have bus drivers to keep an eye out for him.
Metro Transit spokesman Bob Gibbons said police are checking
into several leads that people have called into a tip line, but
so far none had led to the suspect or the machine.
Anybody with information can call 612-349-7222ddMarsha
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