[NFBofSC] Positive Note 2056

Mon Jan 5 10:53:55 UTC 2026

January 4, 2026

Memo To:  Executive Officers, Board Members, Chapter & Division Presidents &
Others

From:  Marty R. McKenzie, President

843-939-8091  president at nfbofsc.org <mailto:president at nfbofsc.org> 

Positive Note: 2056

Dear Federation Family,

January 4 is recognized as World Braille Day. World Braille Day celebrates
the birth of Louis Braille and recognizes Braille as a powerful tool of
literacy, independence, and equality for blind people. This day affirms that
blindness is not the characteristic that defines a person or limits their
future. Instead, lack of access and opportunity create barriers. Braille
provides full access to reading, writing, mathematics, and technology,
empowering blind individuals to compete on equal terms in school, work, and
daily life. World Braille Day reminds us that with high expectations, proper
training, and accessible tools, blind people can live the lives they want.

This week's AI tip or trick is very simple. If you have access to Siri on
your iPhone, Google Assistant on Android phones or a smart speaker such as
the Alexa, you can easily access weather information to assist you with
planning outings. I often ask the Alexa what the outside temperature is. I
can also get information about the weather forecast, wind speed and even the
real feel temperature. This one seems so simple, but it is a tip that can
enhance the lives of blind people.

The Annual Statewide Seminar will take place on Saturday, January 10, 2026
at the Federation Center of the Blind beginning at 10:00 AM. Chapter
presidents, please let David Houck know how many of your members plan to
attend by close of business on Monday, January 5, 2026. We need an accurate
count for lunch preparation. This seminar will be exciting as we are going
to change some things up. I look forward to seeing you there!

Rocky Bottom Auction at Statewide Seminar

There will be an auction to benefit Rocky Bottom during the Statewide
Seminar! Bring your baked goods, your items you wish to regift that are very
nice and anything that you think others may enjoy bidding on. The auction
will take place throughout the day based on the number of items available.
For more information, contact Chairman Thom Spittle at 803-331-3344.

At-Large Chapter Fundraiser

The At-Large Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of South
Carolina is holding an iPad Drawing Fundraiser to support its programs and
outreach. The prize is a new 11-inch Apple iPad with an A16 chip and 128 GB
of storage. Tickets are $10 each or three for $20. Payments can be mailed to
Ed and Julie Bible, 136 Penny Lane, Lexington, SC 29073, or sent by PayPal
to nfbofsc.atlargechapter at gmail.com
<mailto:nfbofsc.atlargechapter at gmail.com> . The drawing will take place on
Saturday, January 10, 2026, during the Statewide Seminar, and participants
do not need to be present to win.

>From Andrew Adams:

Join us for the Sweetheart Ball on February 6th for an unforgettable evening
of fun, fellowship, and celebration. Tickets are $30 per person, making it a
perfect night out for members and guests. Gather your friends and reserve a
full table for $240 to enjoy the evening together. The purpose of the
Sweetheart Ball is to bring our members together while supporting a
meaningful cause. Proceeds raised will help sponsor members to attend the
national convention in Austin, Texas. Come out, dress up, and participate in
a night that strengthens our community and invests in our future.

Experience comfort, convenience, and a true chance to relax at Tru by Hilton
Columbia Greystone, located at 185 Stoneridge Drive, Columbia, SC 29210.
Lock in the exclusive group rate of $117 per night, not including taxes, for
February 4-8, 2026-perfect for attendees of the Legislative Breakfast on
February 5, the Sweethearts Ball on February 6, and the State Board Meeting
on February 7. After long days of meetings and fellowship, kick off your
shoes, rest your feet, and unwind in modern, comfortable accommodations
designed to help you recharge. Each morning begins with a complimentary hot
breakfast, making it easy to start your day refreshed and ready. With its
welcoming atmosphere and convenient location, this hotel keeps you close to
the action while giving you space to relax. Rooms are limited and the
reservation deadline is January 15, 2026, so book early to secure your stay
at the center of the week's events. The booking link is
https://www.hilton.com/en/book/reservation/deeplink/?ctyhocn=CAEGYRU
<https://www.hilton.com/en/book/reservation/deeplink/?ctyhocn=CAEGYRU&groupC
ode=90I&arrivaldate=2026-02-04&departuredate=2026-02-08&cid=OM,WW,HILTONLINK
,EN,DirectLink&fromId=HILTONLINKDIRECT>
&groupCode=90I&arrivaldate=2026-02-04&departuredate=2026-02-08&cid=OM,WW,HIL
TONLINK,EN,DirectLink&fromId=HILTONLINKDIRECT .

The January Edition of the Braille Monitor

Please take time to review the January issue of The Braille Monitor. In this
issue you will find hotel reservation information for the national
convention being held in Austin, Texas July 3-8, 2026. Remember, if you want
to be in the convention hotel, you must book early! Information is also
there about the Kenneth Jernigan Scholarships as well as the National
Federation of the Blind Scholarship program. Other interesting articles that
highlight NFB philosophy are also included.

Marty

Marty R. McKenzie, President

National Federation of the Blind of South Carolina

119 S. Kilbourne Road

Columbia, SC 29205

Phone: 803-254-3777

Mobile: 843-939-8091

Website: www.nfbofsc.org <http://www.nfbofsc.org/>  

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