<html xmlns:v="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:vml" xmlns:o="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" xmlns:w="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:word" xmlns:m="http://schemas.microsoft.com/office/2004/12/omml" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40"><head><meta http-equiv=Content-Type content="text/html; charset=us-ascii"><meta name=Generator content="Microsoft Word 15 (filtered medium)"><style><!--
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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#467886" vlink="#96607D" style='word-wrap:break-word'><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Hello Members,<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>One of our priorities this year is to increase our attendance at the 2024 NFB National Convention in Orlando, Florida. The convention will be held July 3-8. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Each year, there are both national and state funds available to help members who are attending their first national convention because our national convention is a wonderful opportunity to learn, network, and see the National Federation of the Blind and the big picture. It is often a life changing experience. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>we recognize that there are members who have been to a convention before but have trouble saving enough funds to attend every year. This is especially true with the rising costs of attending the convention and overall rising cost of living. This is why we conducted a pledge drive during our convention banquet this year to help those who need a little boost to help some of our members to come with us to the 2024 convention. If this describes you and you want to join us at the convention, this may be a good year to do so. Know that we cannot cover all of any one’s expenses but if some will help send me a letter explaining how much you need, if you are over the age of 55, whether you already have reservations, why you should be considered and what you have done to help raise funds for the affiliate. First timers can also apply but other funds you have been chosen to receive may be considered. We simply need this information as we know we will have to make difficult decisions. However, we do hope we can help. The deadline for the letter is May 22. Our decision will be made by May 25. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Letters should be sent to <a href="mailto:sbwright95@gmail.com">sbwright95@gmail.com</a>. For questions, you can call 816-679-5258.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Shelia<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Cordially,<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Shelia Wright<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p></div></body></html>